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West U Rotary Club Foundation Annual Meeting this ThursdayDuring this Thursday's meeting (July 21, 2022) the West University Rotary Club Foundation (“WURCF”) will hold its Annual Meeting in accordance with the WURCF Bylaws. The Bylaws require the Annual Meeting to be held during July. It will be held during the regular club meeting, before the speaker’s presentation. The 2022-23 WURCF budget will be presented. Additionally, the members will be updated on various matters. The financial documents will be shared Tuesday, July 19 via email. Wally Kronzer WURCF President |
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Back to School Uniform Drive |
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Rotary International Convention June 2022 The 113th Rotary International Convention will be held in Houston from the 4th to the 8th of June at George R. Brown Convention Center. The event will bring to Houston more than 20,000 Rotarians from around the world and the 62 Houston-area Rotary clubs and its 2,400 members will be hosting events and volunteering to receive all the fellow Rotarians. If you come to Houston come visit us and attend one of our meetings. For more information click here. |
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Rappelling for Dollars!May 7, 2021 Here's a new way to fundraise for good causes! Every year Over the Edge partners with a local organization to help support their mission. They do this in a thrilling and exciting way by giving participants the opportunity to rappel down large city sky scrappers. This year in Houston the organization partnered with “The Women’s Home”. Its CEO Anna Coffey said, “The Women’s Home is dedicated to building communities that strengthen women and support families as they reclaim their stability. We focus on preparing women and their families to become empowered, productive forces in our community, and the funds raised from this event will go directly toward that goal.” The West U Rotary Club was a big supporting member, and two members, Gerard Simon and Tracy Hallenberger showed how it is done! The conditions were adverse, the rain was pouring down, the spectators were anxious but Gerard and Tracy made it from the roof to the ground of the Doubletree Galleria on a flimsy little rope in front of a crowd of people, all gathered to raise money for The Women's Home. If you haven't donated and would like to, please reach out to Carol Gradziel. swkeystone@aol.com       |
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Successful Golf TournamentApr. 30, 2021 Rotary Club of West U - 25th Annual Golf Fundraiser It was a beautiful day to play golf on Monday, Apr 19th. Covid still keeps many people away, but we did have 40 plus golfers come to Riverbend CC to try their luck at a hole-in-one. The honorees of the tournament were the five founding members of the Stella Link Redevelopment Association; Russ Schulze, Jim Ainsworth, Peter Taaffe, Bob Barnes, and David Marks. They are responsible for turning around a very dilapidated neighborhood into what now includes the Weekley YMCA, Sheltering Arms, and Houston Public Library on Stella Link, just south of Holcombe Blvd. The Weekley YMCA and the West U Rotary Club Foundation are the benefactors. The only women who entered made it a fun day! Why not, golf is known for silly hats, pants, and socks!       |
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A Very Special Day March 16, 2021Feb. 6, 2021  I hope everyone will welcome a new business in the 77005 area. Diesel Barbershop has opened in the Kroger shopping center, on the northside facing Westpark. They want to be a part of this community and offering this very Special Day, March 16, 2021, for Special Needs Children. Please share with your neighbors and friends far and wide. I met with Ranjit the week before last. He shared that they've done this once before with his Rotary club out in Cinco Ranch. Ranjit shared a story about a young man with autism who hadn't had a haircut all throughout COVID-19 and was not able to go to the barbershop when others were present. Ranjit and his team closed the shop and welcome this young man and his mother 45 minutes before his haircut. He met with the stylist, got comfortable with his surroundings, and then (and only then) had his haircut. Ranjit said when the haircut was finished both mom and son were BEAMING! Jon Kidwell |
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Welcome Our Newest Member - Kye CockerhamJan 27, 2021 We have a new and wonderful way to highlight our new members. Thanks, Tommi Buscemi, D5890 Public Image Chair for creating short videos for clubs to post and welcome new members. Here is our first one and let there be many more! Stacy
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WHAT IS NURO?Oct. 9, 2020 If you missed last week's zoom meeting, you missed a very interesting topic on driverless cars in Houston. Sola Lawal, Product Operations Manager for Nuro in Houston. To catch up, take a look at this short video. If you have more questions for Sola, please email him slawal@nuro.ai (Here's something else interesting. Did you know that email extension ai is the Internet country code top-level domain for Anguilla? It is administered by the government of Anguilla. It is popular with companies in the artificial intelligence industry.) |
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RISE AGAINST HUNGER AND HURRICANE LAURA HELPSept 25, 2020 Rise Against Hunger & Helping Hurricane Victims I have attached the link to sign up for our next Rise Against Hunger event
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Remembering Deceased MembersAug 23, 2020 May 2020 was the 25th Anniversary of the Rotary Club of West U, and we intended to have a Gala Celebration at the Junior League of Houston. However, Covid took care of that! A very important part of the Celebration was to remember our members who passed away since 1995. Please click on this video and have a moment of silence as you remember your fellow members and friends. |
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A Community Service Project 5 Times a WeekAug 19, 2020 Probably the West U Rotary Club is the only club in this district (5890) that can claim to a community project being done every day - Monday to Friday and this has been going on for years. Here's the story in pictures. Thank you Serena! |
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2020-2021 Club ProjectsJuly 29, 2020 Back in February, I asked all club members and committee chairs to start planning their projects and to give me their budget proposals so the boards could create the Foundation Budget for the new year. And boy did they ever! Here's what we have for our new Rotary year. These are all very exciting and diverse projects so I hope everyone can find their passion and get involved. Just reach out to the committee chair. Vocational Service – Scholarships Chair Jan Duranni |
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Second Servings of Houston Recieves their Check Neither Covid nor rain can keep good people down!! Here are members of the RC of West U presenting their check to Second Servings of Houston who was the recipient of the annual Golf Tournament held in June (normally held in April). For the 2020-2021 Rotary year, the recipient will be the Weekley YMCA.
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A Digital Rotarian Magazine ??July 18, 2020 Did you know you can get The Rotarian Magazine digitally? Save a tree, unclutter your mailbox, read it anywhere? Whatever your preference for digital reading, add The Rotarian Magazine. What will you need? Be sure to have your Rotary ID number, which you can find in your personal profile in www.westurotary.org. As with all websites you have to sign in and if you have never signed in, then register first. Once you have your ID, visit www.my.rotary.org, sign in here too, and then go to News & Media, dropdown to Magazine, The Rotarian, and scroll to Subscribe to The Rotarian Digital Edition. Complete the information (here is where your ID number goes) and check the two boxes and submit. If you need extra help, please reach out to me. cecileschutter@yahoo.com
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Goodbye Paul RalphJuly 18, 2020 The family has asked for donations to be made to: Prison Entrepreneurship Program or Rise Against Hunger. You can send your checks to Jack Wallace, 3405 Mercer St. Houston, TX 77027  Paul Ralph Feb. 27, 1944 - July 12, 2020
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Generous Giving from West U RotariansJuly 17, 2020 - For the 2019-2020 Rotary Year, West U Rotary was 1st in District 5890 in Annual Fund Giving! 1st in PolioPlus Giving! and 3rd in Total Giving (Space Center was 1st in Total Giving including great support of Rotary's Endowment and Brazosport was 2nd in Total Giving as they contributed a large amount to Global Grants). Did you know that our very own member Terry Ziegler is the Endowment & Major Gifts Adviser for all of the central parts of North America - from Texas to Ontario, Canada? Have you ever considered making a Major Gift or including a gift to The Rotary Foundation in your estate plan? If so, or if you have questions about Rotary's Endowment, please contact Terry Ziegler at 713-825-1176 or bigzlumber@aol.com |
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Rotary Year 2019-20-Thanks from Stacy July 1, 2020 Since West U Airways (f/k/a West U Rotary) took flight on July 1, 2019, our club has accomplished numerous things but here are a few destinations that connected with lots of people and will resonate in future years: - Trade School Scholarships will help five (5) people at $1,000.00 each through Houston Community College. - The dues were readjusted and approved by the club and club board to be effective April 1, 2020. The dues were reduced from $1,130.00 to $870.00 which is a savings of $260.00 a year for our members. This resulted in the dedicated social at Skeeter’s on the fourth Thursday of each month, or currently a Zoom social call during our COVID-19 crisis. |
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West U Rotary's 25th Anniversary in PicturesJuly 8, 2020 Covid stopped us from having a big bash Gala to celebrate the club milestone - 25th anniversary, but we have pictures of the past. Thank you Don Raskin for all the work of collecting and loading them up! And a thank you to all who contributed the pictures. The file is really big so I can't upload it to our website, but if you would like a copy, please reach out to me. Cecileschutter@yahoo.com |
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24th Annual Golf TournamentJuly 3, 2020 In 24 years only once did our fundraising golf tournament get rained out, but 2020 is certainly a year to remember for two reasons. First, we had to postpone due to Covid-19 which we were concerned we would have to have had canceled, but thanks to the kindness of The Riverbend Country Club, they gave us the chance to postpone and rebook. We finally got a rebooking (to June 22) and we were able to re-market and move forward with the tournament. Our turnout was predictably lower than desired but expected. 53 willing golfers arrived early in the morning and the shotgun start went off at 8:00 am. Then the skies opened up after only two or three holes of golf. Very drenched player came back to the clubhouse. However, the good news is that Riverbend is offering a raincheck to each player (although you have to pay for the cart rental). Even better still - our recipient, Second Servings Houston will get a nice check since we had good sponsorships and donations without a lot of player expenses. Thank you again to Geoff Lanceley and Bob Geary for putting on another tournament to support our local community. Next Year, the recipient will be the Weekley YMCA so mark your calendars for mid-April and let's try it again!! 25th! |
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Kindred Institute and Rice UniversityJune 20, 2020 The Kindred Institute and Rice University have created a registry that provides real-time information with a primary focus on the Houston area. Read their findings from this link. Be sure to open Symptoms and Testing, Mental Health Impact, and the other tabs at the top. |
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What are D5890 Clubs doing during Covid?June 20, 2020 Are you curious about what the clubs of D5890 have/are doing during this time of Covid-19? This is a lengthy article but interesting. https://tinyurl.com/Clubs-and-Covid I hope you have some time to read it and you might find something that makes you want to participate. Cecile Schutter |
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Toastmasters and RotaryJune 6, 2020 Many members attended last week's Zoom Meeting and heard a wonderful presentation from Kathy Kest on what Toastmasters is and how we can work together. If you are interested in finding out more about Toastmasters, they too are having a Zoom meeting, and here is an open invitation that you can join. Talking Bull Toastmasters meet on Zoom every Wednesday from 12 noon to 1 pm (1 hour), guests are always welcome. Our Meeting Zoom link is; https://zoom.us/j/852870308?pwd=VUdWWmpXTkh3Mlp3STdxM3BmbVlpdz09 Club Website with more information: https://talkingbull.toastmastersclubs.org/
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THE GOLF TOURNAMENT IS ON!May 17, 2020 2020 is certainly a year we will all remember, but not as a year that we had to cancel our Annual Fundraising Golf Tournament. Please join us June 22, 2020, with an 7:00 am start for the 25th West U Rotary Golf Tournament. This year, our recipient is Second Servings, Houston, a very unique non-profit organization that "rescues" unwanted food and redistributes to agencies that assist the needy. Learn more https://secondservingshouston.org/ You can register through this link.https://tinyurl.com/yddz48x8
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SECOND SERVINGS - DINNER ON USMay 4, 2020
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BAGEL PATROL CONTINUES TO DELIVER BAGELSThe Hot Bagel Shop continues to impact the community with the Bagel Patrol’s help. A long-time West U Rotary service project continues to serve people in need by helping both the Hot Bagel Shop and the Star of Hope. The fire to make an impact continues to blaze bright. |
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WEST U FLAG PROGRAM |
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HEALTHCARE WORKERS CAN USE YOUR HELPMar 31, 2020
I have been reaching out to several folks I know who are in the medical field across the country, asking about their experiences, and I have noticed a few themes:
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Former Member Burt Ballanfant
Former West University Mayor Richard Burton “Burt” Ballanfant has died of Coronavirus at the age of 72. Burt joined the West U RC in July 1999 but through the years he had to take some time off and then rejoined in June 2018. Ballanfant served two terms as West U mayor, and his career on City Council spanned 15 years and included being chosen president of the Harris County Council of Mayors and Councils. Most recently, he was elected to the council as part of a slate, serving through 2017. A fifth-generation Houstonian, Ballanfant graduated from Lamar High School, the University of Texas, and UT Law School. After law school, he joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Houston where he was twice named an outstanding Assistant United States Attorney. He moved to Shell Oil Company as a corporate attorney in 1980. Ballanfant — who rode a METRO route for years from West University to his job downtown — served for eight years on the METRO board, representing the multi-cities. Among other civic activities, he was active in parent leadership at West University Elementary School and Lamar High. He was also a member of the Battleship Texas Commission and president of Concerned Citizens for Washington Cemetery Care while that historic cemetery was merged with Glenwood Cemetery. He leaves his wife, Sarah, and children Andrea, Ben, and Amy. Funeral services are pending. |
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COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECTS WHILE ISOLATEDMarch 25, 2020 Do you need to feel that you are doing something to help others through all this? Here are a couple of projects created by our for-ever resourceful members. If you have great ideas, please pass them along to our club leadership and we will get the message out. Thank you, Kimberly and Christine.
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Golf Tournament Helps The Hay CenterOn Monday, April 22, golfers hit the links at Riverbend Country Club at the 23rd Annual Golf Tournament coordinated by Bob Geary and Geoff Lanceley. The final tally is still to come but this could be THE most successful (in $) tournament in club history! Proceeds go to The Hay Center which assists youth aging out of the foster care system transition to independence. Thank you, Bob & Geoff, and all who sponsored and/or played. See photo album for more pix (link on the home page).   |
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Where was your seersucker? |
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PEP Rotarians in Action. Prison Entrepreneurship ProgramOn April 5th, West U Rotarians joined about 80 other executive volunteers to support PEP (Prison Entrepreneurship Program) event "Business Plan Workshop at the Cleveland Unit.  Here our dear Geoffrey Lanceley advising one to one. |
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NCAA Closes Texas A&M Recruiting Investigation
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Czech Center Museum to be 2019-20 Club Function Site
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Fight breaks out after club meeting |
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Past Presidents Seize Power
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Hays to assume presidency of the Rotary Club of Upper KirbyHays will act after required waiting period under emergency powers provided by the Rotary Club of West U Bylaws |
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Books, Books and More Books!  Beautifully illustrated bilingual books came to Rotary Books for the World, and warehouse facilitator Terry Ziegler gave local schools and non profits like Caring Friends collaborative opportunities. The Caring Friends goal: to place these excellent books in the hands of classroom bilingual educators to use as achievement rewards. Thanks to our dear Rotarian John Collier and his continue efforts to enhance children's reading skills. |
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Second Servings Houston and West U Rotary Exchange Students Here’s a picture of Caty from Denmark on our Chili Cookoff food rescue today. We rescued enough left over Chili to have close to 1,000 meals that went to Recenter and Magnificat House. Eva from Taiwan was there too. They both ate a lot of chili and had a great time. They even got their face painted. Great workers. If not for Second Servings, this all would have been dumped. By John Thornton |
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Flag Ambassadors at
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Visit to Community ConnectAfter the regular meeting last Thursday, Margarita led a small group to a site visit to Community Connect, housed at KIPP Academy in SW Houston. Founder and former West U resident Ann Whitlock Skelly shared their mission of bringing all available resources and more to support the residents of this high-density low income community who live with constant stress from physical, emotional and financial factors. Ameliorating bad situations before they become catastrophes can change the trajectory for the future of an entire family and for generations to come.  Hearing about the work CC does for Sharpstown/Gulfton communities.  Partners include KIPP Texas, YMCA, St. Lukes United Methodist Church and Legacy Health.
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Serving Our Seniors at Pancake BreakfastFor the third year in a row we have hosted West U seniors at a pancake breakfast as our Valentine to them. The Decorations Committee worked on Monday afternoon then on Tuesday morning cooks and servers prepared and served the food. Pancakes, sausage, bacon, fruit, yogurt, and more were on the menu. Thanks to everyone who came out to be part of our community-centric event. It was a love fest all around.  Our guests get a chance to socialize, get a hot meal, feel our love.  The decorations committee on Monday evening. Red for Valentines Day.  Short order cooks George, Russ & Kerry  The wait staff with Judy, the initiator of this event See the photo album for more pictures.
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Super Bowl Party plus Salute to HoneyWe placed our bets, ate the chow, watched the game and during halftime we saluted Honey Leveen with a vegan cake and song "For she's a jolly good fellow". Thank you, Jack and Ann Wallace, for arranging for the space and providing the paper goods, Leslie Cauffman for publicizing the event, and to all who brought food, especially Beverly Denver who got the cake that Honey would like. See you later, Honey, because saying goodbye is just too hard!  Serious fans actually watched the game.  Yes, Honey, we will miss you.  Carol & Bob win the pot for a quarter each. |
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Peace Conference & Gala RSVPs Due NowDistrict Governor Carmen Cuneo's goal of hosting a Peace Conference will become a reality next Saturday, February 9th. An impressive list of speakers is slated to talk, including Jennifer Jones whom many believe may one day be the first Rotary Int'l president. From a former mafia boss to a FBI Special Agent investigating human trafficking, to a peace negotiator, the roster of speakers is sure to inspire all. If you have not registered yet, please do so ASAP. See info on photo below.  Later that day, the Peace Gala (aka The All Club Dinner) will be held in the same locale: the Crowne Plaza Hotel that has hosted it for many years. The club has a table reserved now. To purchase one of these seats contact President Clyde. Additional seats may also be available if needed.
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Celebrating Serena's Big Event
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Mexican Train Dominoes v. 3.0Mexican food and Mexican train dominoes make for a fun evening of club fellowship at the January monthly social. Thanks, Wendy and social committee, for putting together this fun event. It's got a group of regulars who really enjoy this!   |
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Super Bowl Party Location AnnouncedThank you, Jack Wallace, for providing us with the location for the annual Super Bowl Party. The address is 2727 Travis Street
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Time for Fun and Games Matters TooJoin us tonight (January 24) at 100% Taquita for our third annual Mexican Train Dominoes social. We meet at 6:00 for set up and eating with play beginning as soon as your table is ready. This event is a favorite so don't miss it! Very easy to learn and games are quick.  |
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Supporting the Marathon Runners with FlagsOur club helps lots of people in lots of ways. One way we give moral support is by displaying our flags along the route of the Houston marathon. Runners were wowed by the sight of hundreds of flags lining University Boulevard. Thank you to everyone who came out on Saturday and Sunday, January 19 and 20, to put the flags in and out so runners would feel our support.  |
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Operation Love Third Ward Says ThanksIn December, WURC, led by Frank Parrilla, partnered with The Oikos Ministries Communities' on their "Operation Love Third Ward Celebration" to provide toys and clothing for Blackshear Elementary School families. On January 10th, Howard Thomas from The Oikos Ministries presented Frank (and the club) a Certificate of Appreciation for our help and donations. Thanks to all who participated in the event, donated toys, clothes or funds. You brightened the holidays for many children and families.  |
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Even MORE Paul Harris Fellows PinnedRick Spencer has been parsing out the Paul Harris Fellow pins that have accumulated over the last few months and on Thursday, January 10, he awarded two more. Congratulations and THANK YOU to the latest PHF, Paul Cornett and Jim Dougherty. It's stunning the level of giving in our club, evidenced here, and our place as #1 in giving in the District!  |
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Thank You Paul Harris FellowsRick Spencer had the happy task of awarding more Paul Harris Fellow pins at the January 3rd meeting. PHF either donate or are allocated points from donations to The Rotary Foundation at the $1000 level in a given year. The latest batch of recipients are (as pictured) Jack Wallace, Steven Vaughan, John Thornton, Bob Owen, Jim Waters, Jack Hardin, Carol Gradziel and Bentley Sanford. Thank you all for your consistent generosity to TRF.  |
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Paul Harris Fellows PinnedIn November Essi Kwabi and Dr. Jan Durrani received Paul Harris Fellows pins. In December Rick Spencer pinned Janice Stooksberry, Margarita Hernandez, Suzanne Diecks, Terry LeFebvre and Charlie Deaton. Congratulations and THANK YOU all for your generous giving to the Rotary Foundation. No wonder we are #1 in Foundation giving! .JPG) |
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Cecile Leads Home Repair ProjectCecile Schutter had a friend who needed some help around her property and recruited other club members to help her help her friend. Thanks to all who came out to do the hard and dirty work for Miss Carolyn.  L-R: Kevin (friend of Mike's), Mike Melton from Sharpstown Rotary, Clyde Hays, Bob Owen, Paul Ralph, AJ Karian, Cecile Schutter, Miss Carolyn (the homeowner). Not pictured: George Adams and Brennan Reilly.
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Congrats to Craig & TerryOur club is full of superstars doing big and important work for the world, our community and Rotary. Two recent examples are Craig Friou becoming the club's latest Major Donor, meaning total contributions to Rotary to date exceed $10,000, and Terry Ziegler, who recently was selected as an Endowment/Major Gift Advisor for Rotary Region 26 (basically Texas) for 2019-2020. This will be the first time a non-Past District Governor has been selected for this role. These guys exemplify the Rotary spirit of generosity and service.  Craig Friou, Major Donor .JPG) PDG Suzi Howe announcing Terry Z's appointment to the club. Excellent choice.
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Club Wins Awards for GenerosityOn December 20 PDG Bill Palko came to personally present awards to Past President George Adams for club generosity in 2017-18. George received 5 awards/citations. They are: #1 Total giving to Rotary Foundation Annual Fund #1 Per capita giving to RIF AF #3 Total giving to Polio Plus Presidential Citation from 2017-18 RI Prez Ian Riseley (meaning we met many requirements in many areas) Recognition/Thank You from RI for End Polio Now giving    More awards than hands available to hold! Congrats to George and club!
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Holidays Gift Card DriveEmergency Aid Coalition and West U Holidays Food Gift Cards Drive  About 110 families in north Houston received food gift cards on December 15 for the holidays. These families were devastated by Harvey and some of them still making repairs to their mobile homes. Happy to be there with Bentley Sanford, and Marcela Parra of EAC. Thanks to Carmen Flores and Irene Sadkowski who were calling recipients and confirming attendance.
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Holiday Party A Hit!The halls and people were decked out on Tuesday night for the annual club holiday party. Thanks to Suzanne Diecks and Leslie Cauffman for organizing this wonderful party. Thanks to the Brevards for manning the check-in table. The musician and the entertainment put everyone in the mood for the holidays. See the photo album for more photos.  The Twelve Days of Christmas performed by the WURC choir!  Serena, Irene, Essi, and Martina and Peter Dorn share glad tidings.  Eight maids a milking, kinda. |
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UH Service Scholarship Winner NamedEvery year our club selects a college student who performs an almost unbelievable amount of service even as they pursue their degree. This year's winner from the University of Houston is Lida Hedayatpour. She received a check for $3000 from our foundation to continue her studies. She models our own Rotary motto, "Service above self". Congratulations, Lida! Thank you, Honey Leveen, for leading this effort after Clarence Miller resigned after years leading this project. And thank you to Dr. Jan Durrani, who will take over from Honey who is moving to sunny Florida next year.  L-R; Dr. Jan Durrani, Hannah Barker (UH honors college development officer), Amy Leggio, Exec Dir Development, Lida Hedayatpour (scholarship recipient), and Honey Leveen.
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Human Trafficking Help For VictimsOne of the ways to help victims of human trafficking is providing emergency items immediately after rescuing. Rotarians from across the district came out to A Second Cup to create "Go Bags" containing essential items for police to give to victims. Partners included Freedom Alliance Church, United Against Human Trafficking, and E.S.S.I. (Empower, Stand, Serve, Inspire). Consider joining in future projects addressing this gigantic problem located right in our home town.   Hearing the horrible facts about Houston's part in this.  Loading bags with items and encouragement. Consider getting involved in our club's efforts by contacting Essi Kwabi. |
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Feeding Over 200 Families for ThanksgivingWe continue to collaborate with The Fulfillment Project of The Word Church in NW Houston. For the second year in a row, we helped provide over 200 turkeys and bags of food for families in the area. Thanks to all who came out to help.    And thanks to Nate Simon, Christine and Celestine Kwabi for their help, too! Future Rotarians for sure! |
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Club Earns Top AwardsThe club was recently recognized at the District Seminar for being a leader in generosity. Our club received the following awards for our 2017-2018 giving: #1 in Total Giving to the Annual Fund of The Rotary Foundation #1 in Per Capita Giving to the Annual Fund #3 in Total Giving to Polio Plus Thanks to everyone for making this possible.  L-R: President Clyde Hays, PE Stacy Brevard, Vice Pres. Gerard Simon
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Flags Go Out This Week!Veterans Day is November 11 and that means a flag launch. Please contact your team NOW to arrange your launch for either Wednesday, Thursday or Friday as November 11th is on SUNDAY. Customers who get a flag very late in the launch call and email us creating additional work for a team that is already doing much more than most people realize. Forget an address? The flag team covers you. Last minute order? The flag team brings them one. So please launch on Wed, Thur, Friday in support of your club AND the flag team. Thanks! And a BIG thank you to all those who have been coming out to recent flag repairs. The flags are ready to go!  L-R: Prez Clyde Hays, Liz Wilder, Suzanne Diecks, Serena Sneeringer, Terry LeFebvre, AJ Karian, Bentley Sanford, kneeling: Cecile Schutter, Flag CEO Essi Kwabi. Not pictured: Russ, Carol L |
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Welcome New Members Liz & IreneWe are pleased to welcome Liz Wilder and Irene Sadkowski to the club this week! Thanks, too, to sponsors and mentors who promote Rotary and mentor new members. Invite your friends and people you meet to one of our meetings. We can do more when we are more.  L-R: President Clyde Hays, sponsor Wendy Hiester, Liz Wilder, mentor Carol Lester, Irene Sadkowski, membership chair Stacy Brevard.
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Focus on Human TraffickingHuman trafficking is a worldwide problem, but also a BIG problem in Houston. Our member Essi Kwabi has decided to focus on this problem by joining with United Against Human Trafficking (UAHT) and host her own event in January in support of them. On Thursday, October 25, we made a donation to Nathanial Arneson, Community Liaison with UAHT, of $1500 towards those efforts. For more info on how you can get involved email Essi at essi.kwabi@freiheitsolutions.com  L-R: President Clyde Hays, Nathaniel Arneson, Margarita Hernandez, Kimberly Phipps-Nichol, Essi Kwabi
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20,736 Meals in 4 HoursAlong with Rotarians from all over D5890, members helped package 20,736 meals for shipping to Colombia for Venezuelan refugees. Thanks to everyone who came out to our Rise Against Hunger event on Saturday, Oct. 27th. Thank you, Jack Wallace and Paul Ralph, for coordinating this event.    For more photos, go to Photo Albums on this site.
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Visiting Have Shears Will TravelAfter our club meeting, six members visited the Have Shears Will Travel RV at Sobriety Matters. Pictured are Matt, the RV driver & barber for HSWT, Margarita, Oneida, stylist, AJ (Ara), Lisa and Serena. George taking the picture and I am seated pretending to get a cut. We talked with Matt and Oneida on what they do everyday, visiting 25 different venues each month and giving haircuts and shaves to about 500 men, women and children who cannot afford them. This is an amazing charity and the work and drive of Barbara Goodson (founder) and Matt and Oneida comes deep from the heart in Enhancing the Dignity of Every Client, because a salon is not an option for everyone. .jpg) Please learn more at www.haveshearswilltravel.org and while you are there, please consider a contribution to keep this wonderful charity going.
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Backpacks Project Help Hundreds MoreOur annual Backpacks Project changed a little this year with Chad Spencer obtaining fully loaded backpacks, eliminating our need to fill them ourselves. Plus he was able to grow it by an additional 360 packs! Disbursing so many took lots of volunteers. Thanks to all who came out to the various locations to help us sort and deliver and disburse the hundreds of backpacks at locations around town. They include: Jane Richardson, Potu Rao, Brennan Reilly, Kimberly Phipps-Nichol, Janice Stooksberry, Jack Hardin, Joe Rivers, Margarita Hernandez, Frank Parrilla and Chad Spencer.    Below see our collaboration with Houston Area Urban League's back-to-school event.    Margarita and Frank assist Spanish speaking clients at Emergency Aid Coalition event, while Cecile, Serena and AJ help distribute.  .jpg)  Thanks to ALL who came out to help students arrive to school prepared.
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Visitors From Around the WorldWe are fortunate to be located near downtown and the medical center. As such, we get a good amount of international visitors. Recently we met Flossie from Ghana and Victor from Bangalore. Whenever you travel, consider visiting the local Rotary club and exchange banners with them. We have many available. Thanks to all who warmly welcomed our visitors!   |
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Helping Those Who Help OthersSometimes our help is with our hands, sometimes with our funds. We have recently given financial support to several organizations who do the actual work of helping their constituencies. Our help has included: $2144 to Challlenger for scholarships for players. Thank you, Judy Faulkner, for leading the event that earned the funds. $6000 to Have Shear Will Travel (our District grant) to help her grow her grooming business for the homeless. Thank you, Cecile, for coordinating the grant process with Barbara Goodson.  $4000 to Caring Friends, Inc. for inner city schools who are always in need of funding. Thank you, John Collier, for being our conduit to help.  And thanks to ALL members whose generous contributions make these donations possible. |
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Hello Enea & Eva, Ciao TrinityLots happens in the fall as school approaches. Among those things are the arrivals of our inbound exchange students and the send-off of our outbounds. This year we welcome Enea from Italy, who is currently hosted by the Lesters, and Eva from Taiwan, currently hosted by the Reillys. Thanks to all who came out to IAH to welcome them, esp. Eva's group, as she arrived around midnight! Eva is attending St. Agnes Academy and Enea is attending St. Thomas Episcopal School. Please help make them feel welcome. .jpg) Eva, third from left.  Enea, right behind his name on poster And going out, we have Trinity Reilly, who is heading off to Northern Italy on exchange. We wish her the best and look forward to reports from her and Brennan about her experience. RYE is a great leap of faith for these youth. Kudos to them!  Trinity says her "Ciao" and gets banners for exchanging in Italy. |
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Meet Our Newest MembersIn the last several weeks we have added three new members and one application is in the queue now. Our newest Red Badge members are Jack Hardin (spouse of Janice Stooksberry), a transfer from the Galleria club, and Christine MacMillan and Dr. Ahmad Jan Durrani. We look forward to getting to know them better and serving alongside them. Liz Wilder is back from summer travel and will be inducted soon. Thanks to all who recruit new members, serve as sponsors and serve as mentors. |
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Pop Up Pizza Social at Will'sA last minute social had an excellent turnout at new member, Will Gruy's pizza place in the heart of West U. Pizza Motus was bustling at the soft opening. It's sure to be a popular spot among the locals!   |
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Newest Club CoupleWelcolme to Jack Hardin, husband of Janice Stooksberry, who became the newest member of the club! Jack transferred over from the Galleria club. Welcome, Jack!  |
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New Prez Clyde Hays Take the HelmJuly 1 marks the beginning of the Rotary year. A new team, led by President Clyde Hays, will guide the club in new and established ways. At his first meeting, Clyde presented a donation to The Fulfillment Project, a local charity helping famlies on the north side, who we met doing post-Harvey relief work. We have already collaborated with them with supplies, turkeys and bicycles. We look forward to collaborating more in the future.  (L-R: Gerard Simon, Pastor Jamail Johnson, Prez Clyde, Joe Rivers, Natasha Johnson) Also in his first meeting, Clyde gave George a new "crown"... the Past President West U Rotary ball cap.  Thanks to Clyde and all who agreed to serve on the board this year.
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Our First Rainy July 4th EventDespite torrential rain, the parade and the fundraiser went on. Judy Faulkner's team of dedicated volunteers ran the checkout while Jamie's served the food. The city hired face painters, balloon artists and caricature artists so the few stranded customers had something to do. The rain was a first in our history; we hope the last!   All proceeds will go to Challenger baseball for scholarships. |
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Rotarian & Rookie of the Year AnnouncedIt's never easy to pick the winners of these awards; so many are deserving. This year George selected Margarita Hernandez as the Rookie Rotarian of the Year, and John Collier as the Rotarian of the Year. Congratulations to them both, and thank you for your above-and-beyond service this past year.   |
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New Board and Prez InstalledCongratulations to the incoming Board of Directors installed at a lovely event put on by the Social Committee at Maggiano's.  George Adams was a phenomenal leader; Clyde will no doubt be one as well. Thanks to all who served last year and to those who agreed to serve this year.  The incoming board is the following: President: Clyde Hays VP/Pres. Elect: Stacy Brevard Pres Elect Nominee: Gerard Simon Treasurer: Jim Waters/John Barnes Secretary: Wendy Heister Directors: Terry LeFebvre / Joe Rivers / Margarita Hernandez / Jane Richardson / A J Karian / Bob Owen / Lisa Bunse / Suzanne Diecks / Sachin Chowdhry Past Pres: George Adams |
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Flag Launch, Parade, & ConcessionsThe new Rotary year kicks off with a trifecta of service! Everyone puts out flags, some march in the Kazoo Band (world renown!), and some work the concessions at the pool fundraiser that benefits Challenger Baseball. We need everyone who can to help out! Wear your red, white and blue or Rotary t-shirt and come out for a fun morning of service and fellowship.    |
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President George Says "Thanks"At the last meeting he would chair of a club meeting (bc he went to RI convention), George recognized the many who helped him significantly in his year. Many members prefer to assist in the background, and 100% of the members are vital to the club.  The Harvey Relief honorees.  The team that makes the club and meetings run smoothly (Administration). See the photo album for more pictures.
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Making 25,000 Meals in a MorningOn Saturday, May 19, our club joined with several other clubs to create 25,000 meals for shipping to needy areas of Honduras. Rise Against Hunger's efficient system means this all happens in under 3 hours time! Thanks to all who came out to help, especially the Wallace's, Jack, Anne and Becky, who coordinated the event for our club.    |
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Helping Our Rotary BrotherCharity begins at home for our club. This time it's a wheelchair ramp for Ray Schutter. Ray and Cecile have been bulwarks of our club from the beginning and we are glad to be of help to them. Thanks to all the carpenters who came out to help.   |
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Care Package Give Seniors a Chance to ServeSheltering Arms seniors assisted our club in creating approximately 100 toiletry bags to be disbursed to veterans living on the streets. In addition to giving us a place to do the project, SA seniors helped by loading the items into the sturdy insulated bags and staff will take to the homeless veterans around town. Thanks to all who came out to help us help two often-overlooked groups.    Special thanks to Chad and Rebecca Spencer for coordinating all the pieces. |
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Rotarians as BuildersTo assist beloved long-time member Ray Schutter in getting out and about, several members have been working away at building a wheelchair ramp. Joe Rivers designed it, George bought the materials, and Joe, George, Gerard Simon, A J Karian, Carol Lester, and Cecile have labored away on it. This labor of love should be completed by our next meeting! |
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New President & First Lady Honored at ConferenceEvery year at District Conference Saturday night honors various Rotarians. Foremost it honors the incoming presidents and their spouses or significant other. Our own Clyde and Katy Hays marched down the aisle to hoots and hollers from our members around the room. We look forward to another great year under Clyde's leadership and appreciate Katy sharing him with us. Pictured with incoming District Governor Carmen Cuneo.  |
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Harvey Victims Get FurnitureOur club, with the assistance of The Starfish Project of Adore Ministries, was connected with families who still need help after Harvey. Five families who needed new furnishings were granted $1500 each to select new and gently used furniture from The Furniture Bank. Thanks to John Collier who connected us to the organizations who work at street level with those in need.  George shown with members of two families who got furniture using our funds. |
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Prepping Flags for Memorial DayThanks to all who came out on Saturday, April 28, to create new and repair old flags for the upcoming Memorial Day launch. Even Terry L came out despite having had recent surgery on his arm. That's dedication! Flags are our primary source of funds for all our service work. To succeed, it requires ALL rotarians to participate in some way.   |
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Golf Tournament a Big SuccessFor the 22nd year in a row, Geoff Lanceley and Bob Geary orchestrated a successful golf event benefitting our selected charity. This year we repeated PEP (Prison Entrepreneurship Program) as the beneficiary but the funds are dedicated to a new initiative of PEP -- PEP in a woman's prison in Lockhart, TX. Thank you, Geoff, Bob, Dee, and Kandy Glover and the numerous volunteers who helped that day, for a lovely time of fellowship on the best day of the year.  The colorful Vaughan/Spencer team, which came in 1st place. Chad was also the winner of the putting contest.  The foursome of Bert Smith's (grey t-shirt), outgoing CEO of PEP. Other winners were Kerry Bloom for longest drive, closest to the pin was Muddy McDaniel, and straightest drive was Bob McEniry. A number of PEP graduates volunteered and also golfed. We hope you had a chance to visit with them.  Thanks everyone for a wonderful day! |
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Bikes Collaboration CompletedOn Saturday, April 7 our club collaborated on a project with D7980 in Connecticut and PDG Bob Gebhard to supply bikes to kids affected by Hurricane Harvey. Over 110 bikes were picked up and delivered to our partner, The Fulfillment Project, to disburse to the kids in the Aldine area. Thanks to George, Terry LeFebvre, Joe Rivers, Gerard Simon, Kevin Lanier for helping out with the literal heavy lifting!  .JPG)  Unfortunately, in the process of unloading the bikes George and Terry took a tumble. Terry took the worst of it, breaking bones in his elbow joint requiring surgery installing metal plate and pins. Ouch! So sorry, Terry!  |
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Vocational Award Winners RecognizedCongratulations to the 2018 Vocational Awards winners recognized at the April 19th meeting. Also, thank you to the Nominating Committee of Fritz Beich, Mary Nelson, and Bob Fry for your service making this event successful.  The Rotarian award winner was Bob Owen, for his assistance locating, negotiating and tailoring our new venue (again) as well as his ever-ready help whenever the AV tools rebel.  The non-Rotarian winner was Mike Schneider, Jr., attorney and judge with a long history of service including as the City of West U's Presiding Judge (pictured here with Nominating Committee member Fritz Beich and nominator David Redford).  Our educator award went to Rebekah Tee of Spring Woods High School for her tireless dedication to her students at SWHS and other schools, including KIPP. Rebekah also received a $1000 award to use as she pleases (pictured here with Nominating Committee member Mary Nelson). |
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Reunion Meeting Brings Back Old FriendsIn the inaugural Reunion Meeting several past members of West U Rotary returned as our guests. Chris Spofford, Roy Lund, Gene de Laveaga (a past president), Bert Moser and Richard Lazear were present to see our new venue and meet many new members. We and they had a great time reconnecting. Thanks to the Membership Committee for organizing this event that we plan to repeat annually.  |
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Play Ball! Serve SnowCones!Spring means baseball and for West U Rotary it means opportunities to help Challenger Baseball by running the concession stand for their games. Thanks to all who have come out so far. Dick is still looking for helpers for the upcoming Sundays. See an email from him to sign up.  |
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Hospitality As Service with PEPUpon release from prison, PEP graduates can go into transition housing that offers continual support. Opportunities to bring dinner occur once a month, at three locations. The Diecks recently brought dinner to a downtown location and last Monday, they were joined by Judy, Paul and Carol L, in bringing dinner to a different group on the north side of town. Consider being part of a future dinner event by contributing a dish and sharing the meal with the guys.   |
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Our Trees Are Blooming!Recall that in January Rotarians from our club and several others (University, Bellaire, CyFair, more) planted trees as part of RI Prez Ian Riseley's goal for all clubs. We planted approximately 239 trees at the Willow Waterhole park in southwest Houston. See how beautiful they look today! Thank you, PE Clyde Hays, for coordinating this project that brings beauty and function to this neighborhood park.   |
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Sorting Clothes for Emergency Aid CoalitionOn Saturday, March 17, several members helped sort donated clothes at Emergency Aid Coalition on Fannin Street. EAC supports the working poor with food, clothing and aid. Clients are permitted to select clothing from their shop, run totally by volunteers. EAC was our 2016 golf tournament beneficiary and has connections to many in our club. Thanks to all who came out to lend a much needed helping hand.   |
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Challenger Baseball BeginsAnd with that, our opportunities to work in the concession stand. Slots fill up fast so don't delay in letting Dick Cancelmo know your preferred dates. We sell hot dogs, drinks, candy, popcorn and SNOW CONES! Dates are (Sundays) March 25, April 8, 15, 22, 29 and May 6 from 1:30 to 3:15. To reserve your spot, email Dick at dcancelmo@bridgeway.com.  Challenger BB is Little League's adaptive baseball program for individuals with physical and intellectual challenges. WURC has been a strong supporter from the beginning. |
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Welcome New Members!Welcome to our new members Pam Dibbern, , Essi Kwabi, Kevin Lanier, Felicia Wenah, and Marci Walters. Welcome BACK to Dan Louie and welcome transferee Paul Ralph. Thank you to all sponsors and mentors. Keep inviting people to our meetings; it's the #1 way people join Rotary.   And we are not done! Look for the induction of Jon Kidwell and Vernon King soon! Good job, Membership Committee! |
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Nominations Sought for Vocational AwardsOur annual Vocational Awards honor persons who help others through their vocation. Three awards recognize a club member, a community member, and an educator. The educator only receives a $1000 award. To nominate someone, compose a compelling report (need not be long) explaining why this person deserves the award. Send the report to Fritz Beich or Mary Nelson or Bob Fry. Please get your nominations in by March 15th. We all know someone who deserves this award. Please take the time to nominate them.  |
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Golf Tournament Benefits PEP...Again!For only the second time in club history, the golf tournament beneficiary will repeat in consecutive years. Like last year, the beneficiary will be Prison Entrepreneurship Program, an organization brought to our attention by Dick Cancelmo. In addition to our financial support, we have gotten involved as volunteers and individual donors. The proceeds this year will go towards the first-ever PEP program for women at the Lockhart Correctional Facility. Start putting your foursomes together and consider sponsoring a hole.   To register, click on the link to download forms: https://www.crsadmin.com/gen/Accounts/3883/EventPlanner/d28218e8-78e0-453b-bb56-1a36e762142d/12148/GolfFlyer-2018-MarchVersion.pdf
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Bilingual Rotarians Help EAC FamiliesThank you to Carmen, Frank and Margarita for giving of their time on Monday, March 5 to help Emergency Aid Coalition register Spanish-speaking families register for school uniforms and supplies for the upcoming school year. Together they helped EAC register approximately 70 families. Look for another opportunity to help EAC on Saturday, March 17 from 9 am to noon as we sort donated clothing at 5401 Fannin.  |
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Sorting Day at The Women's HomeOn Saturday, February 10, a group of us helped The Women's Home Cottage Shop sort through donations which were overwhelming them. While most of us sorted clothing, George, Paul and Sharon tested electronics. The Cottage Shop provides training women clients for employment, an income stream, and fills a need for affordable clothing for surrounding communities. Thanks to all who gave of their time to help our long-time partner.   |
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Helping Flood Victims Through Avenue CDCOur club, along with the University Area club and Gulf Coast Donor Advised Funds, donated $15,000 to Avenue Community Development Corp to help flood victims purchase building materials, new applicances, accessibility aids and other items not covered by FEMA. Applicants came to us through their case managers and our Harvey relief team reviewed applications then ACDC connected us to them so we could provide the needed aid. Another way we are living the credo "service above self". Look for an update at a future meeting.  |
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Super Bowl Party A WinnerThanks to the social committee of Carmen, Honey, Judy, Margarita, Pam and Suzanne, for organizing, set-up and clean up of the Super Bowl Party and thanks, George and Judy Adams, for opening your lovely home so we could keep this wonderful tradition.   Congrats to the winners of the betting pool We learn who on Thursday.
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Our Club Shines During RI President's VisitThe annual visit by the RI President was this past week and our club and members shone brightly many times. We presented our annual donation to Books for the World while RI President Ian Riseley looked on, and we showed the total amount of funds our club, with the help of other clubs and organizations, has applied to Harvey Relief efforts. Many members came out to lend a hand and also to welcome the First Couple to our town.   See the RI Pres Visit 2018 photo album for more photos of this event.
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Touring Our Project Joy & Hope Home with President RiseleyWe had our first chance to see the completed patio homes of Project Joy & Hope, of which we were a major donor, with President Ian Riseley, his wife Juliet, and District dignitaries. Our home's inhabitants were a very young boy and his mother. The children awaits a transplant and is on a ventilator. During construction we could choose a room and we chose the kitchen, always the heart of a home. All will be invited to a Grand Reveal in early February. Hope you will come out to see the wonderful way your donations were spent last year.   See the photo album of the RI President's visit for more pix.
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Mexican Train Dominoes last Tuesday was a success The social for January was a successful repeat of a successful event last year . . . Mexican Train Dominoes at 100% Taquito last Tuesday night, January 23 starting at 6:00 pm. 100% Taquito is located at 3425 Southwest Freeway, in front of Kroger on Westpark. |
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New Meeting Location Pico's on RichmondOur new club "home" is now Pico's Restaurant, just a short drive north up Kirby from our old meeting location, at 3601 Kirby, on the SE corner of Kirby and Richmond Avenue. Thank you to everyone who served on the Facilities Committee who worked on the finding us options and thanks to all members for your understanding as we transition to our new place.  |
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West U Recognized for 2016-17 Foundation Giving club! At the District Foundation Seminar PDG 2016-17 Eric Liu recognized our club for its generosity in giving. Last year we were 2nd in giving to RI's Annual Fund, and 3rd per capita in giving to the Annual Fund. We were also 3rd in giving to Polio Plus and 3rd in per capita giving to Polio Plus.  Sharing the awards with the club is 2016-17 president Carol Lester and perennial Polio Plus chair Terry Ziegler. Our club is always a leader in giving! |
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The District Foundation Winter Seminar is this Saturday - January 6, 2018 When: Saturday, January 6, 2018, 8:30 am - 12:15 pm. Registration begins at 7:30. Where: South Main Baptist Church Youth Center, 4200 Main St., Houston, TX 77002 (Main Street and Richmond/Wheeler just off I 69/US 59). The club will cover the registration cost. Just register showing “Pay by check.” The link to register is https://portal.clubrunner.ca/50025/Event/district-5890-foundation-winter-seminar |
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Serena Sneeringer and Pam Dibbern assume new roles!
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We recently moved!!!.jpg) The club has moved to Jax Grill, 6510 S. Rice Avenue in Bellaire, just north of Bissonnet. While this is not intended as a permanent move, expect to be there through sometime in January, 2018. |
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The results of the recent Board Elections Recently the club elected the following slate of candidates for the 2017-2018 board to replace those cycling off has been put forth by the Nominating Committee, headed by the Club VP Stacy Brevard. They are: Vice President (meaning club president in 3 years): Gerard Simon Club Secretary: Wendy Hiester Treasurer: Jim Waters Asst. Treasurer: John Barnes Sergeants-at-arms: Bob Owen and Suzanne Diecks Board Secretary: Paul Cornett Directors: Sachin Chowdhry Margarita Hernandez Patrick Quinn Joe Rivers |
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Club Board Meeting tomorrow (Tuesday) at different location!!!!.png) We will have the December Rotary Club of West U Board of Directors meeting Tuesday, December 12 at 7:00 AM. It will be in the John Neighbors Activity Room (West U Community Center), 6104 Auden, West University, Place, TX 77004. This is the monthly meeting where much of the club business is transacted. Yes, it is a make-up.
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Funds Help Local Farmers RecoverOur club was blessed to receive donations from clubs all over the US to help victims of Harvey. Part of the funds went to assist Plant It Forward, an organization (founded by a woman from Southside Place) that helps immigrant farmers make a sustainable living by farming parcels in Houston. They lost crops but interestingly not by flooding but by the unrelenting rain. In October a group of us visited the site in southwest Houston to see how it works.   A Rice professor and some students were also there, teaching farmers modern techniques for greater yields. |
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Thanksgiving Turkeys Feed HundredsJoe and Pam Rivers originated a project and invited us to join in. The Rotary Club of Houma also wanted to help and sent a significant donation. Together with The Word Church, the Rivers, their friends and families, two Rotary clubs and Caring Friends, Thanksgiving turkeys and trimmings were distributed to over 260 families from north Houston.   Joe and Pam negotiated bulk turkeys from HEB, volunteers donned hairnets and loaded them into trucks and transported to cold storage. On November 18 volunteers came out again to transport the turkeys to Dekaney High School where families picked them up.   This was a wonderful large scale project and we thank Joe and Pam for initiating it and letting us be a part of it.
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Muck Out Committee Doing the Hard WorkA committee was established to help do the physical work needed by our neighbors whose homes were severely damaged by Hurricane Harvey. Kimberly Phipps-Nichols organized and trained a team who have gone out several times and done the physically demanding work of tearing out sheetrock and carpeting and trash. We collaborate with Disaster Aid to identify homes and dates. Many homes are completed but many more are on the list waiting for help.   Interested in helping? Contact Kimberly. Safety training is required.  Thank you to the workers who have helped to date. You model Service Above Self in the truest sense. |
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FLAG Order AnnouncementSubscriptions for flags received after October 31st will begin at the next launch period and not for Veteran's Day. The next launch will be in February for Presidents Day. Orders that come in after the installation has started cannot be honored during that launch. Rotarians are volunteers and as such we do not strain them by having them have to go out into their zones over and over as new orders come in. We hope you understand and we appreciate your support of our work through your subscription. |
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Don't Miss the Holiday Party this Thursday night, December 7 Join your rotary friends to celebrate the holidays with an evening of fun, good food, and music. Thursday, December 7, 2017 (NO morning meeting that day) 7:00 pm Maggiano's Little Italy, upstairs 2019 Post Oak Blvd, between Westheimer & San Felipe $50/person Wine and beer cash bar RSVP to Leslie Cauffman at Lcauffman@dbunited.com (NO LATER THAN TOMORROW - Tuesday) |
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New Host Families Needed ASAP!Youth Exchange Champion John Thornton needs your help getting host families for a student. Can you help? 100% of past host families would rate it as one of the best things they ever did! Because of this program, Terry LeFebvre went to Bolivia and Peru, John went to Paraguay, and Carol went to Italy. And see Bentley visiting Machiej in Poland recently! Who will you host and where will it take you?  |
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Buffalo Soldier National Museum Tour, October 23, 2017 |
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Disaster Aid Work Committee FormingKimberly Phipps-Nichol is leading the committee of volunteers interested in helping flood victims rehab their homes. A health and safety training is required for anyone who wishes to work inside flooded homes. Mold and toxic pathogens are a danger that requires special care. Not able to do the physically demanding work? You can bring food or drink, watch kids or pets, purchase needed supplies, solicit for gift cards. Join the over 17 club Rotarians already on the committee to make a dent in the work needed around Houston. Contact Kimberly at bluewaterstudio.us@mac.com
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Donations to Easter Seals DeliveredSome of the large stock of supplies received by Hands On Tzedakah went to Easter Seals of Greater Houston who help families with babies, children, and adults with disabilities. Many of their client families were hit hard by Hurricane Harvey. John Collier's Caring Friends organization supplemented our donation for greater impact.  |
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WURCF Special Meeting this Thursday During this Thursday's club meeting we will have special meeting of the West U Rotary Club Foundation. You will learn about our foundation's role in the Harvey relief efforts. See you there. |
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Rotarians Respond to IkeWest U Rotarians responded to community needs following Hurricane Ike's visit.
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Happy Hour, Saturday, Sept 23, 2017, 5:00 pmKick back and relax at our September social, this time a happy hour. Come on Saturday, September 23, 2017 starting at 5:00 pm to Kirby Ice House at 3333 Eastside Street between Richmond and West Alabama streets.  KIH features Texas brews, wine and cocktails, and a large dog-friendly outdoor patio for games and food trucks. Questions? Contact Lisa Bunse at 713-858-3184. |
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Relief Efforts UpdatesIndividual members are helping out all over town. Out of state clubs are contacting us and committing to help using our club as their liaison on the ground. This week President George enlisted the help of members to form a committee to oversee our efforts so we do the right things at the right place and the right time. This week John Collier responded to a call for bedding and toiletries for Alief ISD personnel whose homes were flooded. Using foundation funds, he purchased the requested supplies and delivered them as requested, all within 24 hours.  |
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Hurricane Relief Efforts Under WayWe are doing lots of helping right now. On Saturday, we received a truckload of supplies to be distributed to shelters around the city. With members of Holy Ghost Church parish, we unloaded 22 pallets in 30 minutes. We thank Ron Gallatin and his donors from Hands On Tzedakah for their compassion and generosity. We will be sure these supplies end up in the right hands.  We will disburse to area shelters this week and look to replenish as money permits. |
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New Collaborations in Disaster ReliefPresident George Adams, John Collier and others are making connections with other relief organizations around town. Gerard, Joe and Carol visit The Word Church in NE Houston to explore partnering with their pantry, which usually serves 50, now serving 300.  |
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No meeting on August 31Tropical Storm Harvey caused us to cancel the August 31 meeting. Stay dry and we will see you next week!
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RYEs Have Arrived!Hard to believe another school year is upon us but the arrival of our exchange students confirm it. Julia from Argentina arrived at 5:30 a.m. on Tuesday, August 8th to a warm West U Rotary welcome, then breakfast at Skeeters.  On Saturday afternoon, Jose from France arrived and Julia joined the group of Rotarians and hosts to welcome him.  We look forward to getting to know these brave kids as the year progresses. |
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District Grant Goes to 'Have Shears Will Travel'We have fallen in love with the mission of 'Have Shears Will Travel'. So much so that we chose it for our District Grant recipient. These funds come from the WURC foundation and matched by our District foundation. Cecile presented the $4,000 check to Barbara Goodson on Monday, August 14.  This money will go far in advancing HSWT to serve more people. Congratulations, Barbara!
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Backpack Project Serves 300 KidsKeeping his promise to grow it, Chad Spencer lead the effort to load a record 300 backpacks for needy students, in collaboration with the YMCA who will distribute them. Lots of helpers came out Saturday and we finished in about an hour!  Thanks to all who donated goods, funds, the space, and time.
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Youth Exchange Kids Arrive This WeekJulia from Brazil and Jose from France arrive in Houston this week. Please join us in welcoming them in our usual bombastic way. See your emails for details of times, dates and carpooling info.  This little act of kindness lasts a lifetime for these kids! Be a hero and join us for the fun on Tuesday and Saturday.
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Golf Proceeds Benefit Inmate Training ProgramOn Thursday, July 20, we gifted Prison Entrepreneurship Program with their share of the proceeds of our 21st annual golf tournament.  Tony Mayer, Charles Hearne and Bert Smith are all smiles. This was the most successful tournament in club history! Great job, Bob Geary & Geoff Lanceley!
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Miniature Golf, Wednesday, August 23, 2017 |
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Fourth of July is Our Time to Shine!Flags, parade, float, songs, burgers, dogs, and donations! We are everywhere in West U every July 4th! Warming up!  Our beautiful float!  The picnic fundraiser at Colonial Pool, lead by Chuck Guffey and Judy Faulkner.    Good job, everyone! Another successful parade & fundraiser! |
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Movie Night, Sunday, July 23, 2017 |
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And The Winners Are....Each June the club recognizes the new and veteran members of the club who have shown exemplary dedication and generosity in service to the club and Rotary's mission.  For the 2016-2017 year, the Rotarian of the Year is Bob Owen, and the Rookie Rotarian of the Year is Suzanne Diecks.  Congratulations and thank you, Bob & Suzanne! And for his years of Rotary service, Phil Mabry was awarded an Honorary Membership, and a Books for the World Award in appreciation for his service to the project.  Congratulations, Phil. You deserve the recognition! |
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Big Bold Polio ContributionOur club surprised District Governor Eric Liu at the District Conference in Conroe in April with a super sized contribution to Polio Plus that lead to more clubs giving till he surpassed his goal of $250,000 and got closer to $333,000, which, when matched by the Gates Foundation became $1 million!  We weren't the largest donor, but we were a close second. And once the ball got rolling by we two, other clubs caught the giving fever till DG Eric met and exceeded his goal. See Eric receiving our check and recognizing our generosity from last year!   |
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You Are Invited to Baker Ripley TourAt the June 29 meeting Marc Levinson invited us to tour the Baker Ripley Neighborhood Center facility at 6500 Rookin in SW Houston. Go on either Tuesday, July 18 at 9:30 or Wednesday, July 19 at 9:30 to see how they serve the local communities and how we can get involved.  To RSVP, contact Marc at mlevinson@BakerRipley.org, or call 713-669-5222. This facilities supports families from the Gulfton/Sharpstown areas where the need is great. Say "YES" to service in 2017!
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Upcoming Events Mark these on your calendars so you don't miss! Float Decorating: Monday, July 3 @ 6:30 pm Flag Launch: Week of July 4th Parade and Picnic: Tuesday, July 4th, 7:30 Colonial Pool, 8:30 WULL Field Club Awards Meeting: Thurs. July 6, 7:15 Flag Repairs: Sat. July 8, 8 am Board Meeting: Tues. July 11, 7 am Merrill House Book Sorting: Sat. July 15, 9-11 am Baker Ripley Tours: Tues & Wed July 18 & 19, 9:30 a.m. 6500 Rookin Flag Repair: Sat. July 22, 8 am District Membership Seminar: Sat. July 22, 8:30 am HCC West Loop Monthly Social: Sunday, July 23, Dinner & Movie, 6:00 pm, Sundance Theater Backpack project: August, TBA RYE students arrive: August TBA Board Meeting: Tues. Aug 8, 7 am The Merrill House Book Sorting: Sat. Aug. 19, 9-11 am Monthly Social: Wednesday, August 23 TBA Flag Repair: Sat. Aug. 26, 8 am |
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Goodbye Carol...Hello George!On July 1st, 2017, the club will officially have a new President and Board. Crazy Carol is out, and Yes Man George is in. DG Bill Palko conducted the installations at the Briar Club on June 22.  The new board of directors is as follows:  President: George Adams President-Elect: Clyde Hays Vice President: Stacy Brevard Treasurer: Craig Friou Asst. Treas.: Jim Waters Club Secretary: Dan O'dell Board Secretary: Paul Cornett Past President: Carol Lester Directors: Irene Duque Carmen Flores Chad Spencer Steven Vaughan Jane Richardson Lisa Bunse Suzanne Diecks A.J.Karian Terry LeFevre Bob Owen Thank you to all who agreed to serve. |
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West U Rotarians Attend RI Convention We are a BIG DEAL, and nothing helps you understand that more than the Rotary International Convention, this year held in Atlanta. From our club George, Carol, Wally, Dee, Terry, Jack, Kimberly and Don attended. In 2022, Houston will host and if you haven't gone by then, you'll get your chance without the expense of travel. We are like the UN, only better! George came back enthused with ideas and energy, ready to lead us to new heights as a club.
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July 4th Parade & Picnic Volunteers Needed Chuck Guffey and Judy Faulkner can use all the help they can get to make the July 4th festivities a success. Help is needed on Monday, July 3rd at 6:30 p.m. to decorate the float at Gene McFadden's garage, 2640 Pemberton (at Annapolis).  On the 4th, we need band members to ride in the float. Meet at the Little League concession at 8:30 am. At Colonial Pool, we need helpers to take orders and payments, serve plates, and also sell our flag program and invite people to join Rotary. Concession set-up volunteers should meet at Colonial Pool at 7:30 am.  If you can help in any way, let Chuck and Judy know, or just show up. Don your Rotary shirt, hat and sunscreen and come help out at this fun event.
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Our Duplex is Under Construction Recall that our club is a partner with other clubs in build housing for families whose children are undergoing treatment at the med center for cancer or transplant. Terry Ziegler, Wendy Heister and I gave our check to Project Joy & Hope and visited the site where our unit is under construction. We funded 1/6th of the cost of the home. I hope you can attend the opening of the home, to be announced later.
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Flag Launch Coming Up!Get ready! Here comes the Memorial Day flag launch. The flag team has been very busy; the inventory is larger and newer.  Please contact your team and arrange your launch time. We aim for a week of visibility, so mid-week next week to mid-week the following week is best. MUST SEE TV! To see the proper way to install and remove a flag, click the link below for a video tutorial, written by Cecile, directed by Michael Huey, and starring Cecile and Carol L. |
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20th Tournament is Best Yet for Bob, Geoff.JPG) This year marked the 20th time that Bob Geary and Geoff Lanceley lead the club's annual golf tournament. According to early figures, this year's event, benefitting Prison Entrepreneurship Program (PEP), was the most successful yet! Thanks go out to all who helped make this happen. They are Bob Geary, Geoff Lanceley, Kandy Glover (Bob's assistant), Dee Ullrich, Don Raskin, PEP's Tony Mayer, and Dick Cancelmo, who advocated for PEP and through his company, Bridgeway Capital, was Grand Sponsor. Thanks to ALL club members who sponsored a hole, put together a foursome, came as a player, drove the refreshment carts, and more, who are too numerous to mention here. We couldn't have done it without you.
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Blood Drive on May 25 Bob Geary has schedule another Blood Drive for our club for Thursday, May 25th. Please sign up if you have not already at the meeting this week. The Blood Center will be set up inside the foyer area of The Merrill House so you will be able to hear the meeting! Thank you for donating the most precious gift of life.
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Vocational Awards Winners for 2017Congratulations to the three winners of this year's awards! For educator, Carlos Quintero, nominated by Paul Cornett and Steven Vaughan,  for non-Rotarian, Barbara Goodson of Have Shears Will Travel, nominated by Cecile Schutter,  and for Rotarian, Clarence Miller for his years leading the scholarship programs for service and Ambassadorial Scholars.  Thank you to the Vocational Award Nominating Committee of Fritz Beich, Bob Fry, Mary Nelson and Sharon Williams. We appreciate your leadership of this program.
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Challenger Season EndsThank you to everyone who volunteered at the West U Little League concessions during the Challenger baseball season. Thank you too, Dick Cancelmo, for coordinating this club favorite service opportunity. See you in the dugout next year!
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New Foundation Trustees NamedEvery year two trustees on the foundation board rotate off. Thank you Greg Faldyn and Janice Stooksberry for your service. Coming on are Steven Vaughan and Mary Nelson. In addition, Phil Mabry has had to leave the club due to health issues and had two remaining years on the board. David Redford will finish out Phil's term. Thank you all for your willingness to serve.
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Golf Tournament a Huge Success Bob and Geoff have done it again! They created yet another successful golf tournament...their 20th...this time benefitting Prison Entrepreneurship Program. Totals are not finalized yet but it may be the MOST successful event in terms of funds raised ever! Thank you, Bob, Geoff, Dee, Kandy, and Don, and Kandy Glover, for all your hard work yet again.
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Cabaret Evening, Monday, May 22, 2017 |
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Incoming President George Adams Introduced to District The District Conference highlight is the introduction of the next group of District leaders. Incoming President and First Lady George and Judy Adams were introduced to wild applause from members present. We look forward to big things next year with George at the helm.
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Conference, Golf, Social, Oh My!There's alot going on for us over the next several days. Starting Thursday, several members will head up to Lake Conroe to enjoy "getting crazy" about Rotary!  DG Eric Liu is planning some monkey business so its sure to be crazy there.....just the way we like it! Watch our FB page for pictures of all the happenings. Our incoming President, George Adams, will be introduced and walk down the aisle in the spotlight with wife, Judy. You can be sure our table will be hootin' and hollerin' for George.  The 21st Annual Golf Tournament will be on Monday at RiverBend Country Club. Geoff and Bob and Dee and others have done a lot of work getting ready to make this a successful event so as to make a nice donation to Prison Entreprenuership Program. You can still donate and sign up to play but time is very short. And don't forget we can all "get in to jail" with Dick Cancelmo in June and see firsthand the wonderful work PEP is doing with inmates facing release.  Finally, April 22 is the Brooklyn Athletic Club social for the month. BAC offers excellent food and drink but what's more is they have fun yard activities that provide the perfect fellowship setting. So get out into the sun on Saturday and play around with friends. Time is 7-9 pm, 601 Richmond Ave. Possible games include croquet, bocce ball, Jenga and putt putt.
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Games on the Patio at April Social The Brooklyn Athletic Club boasts a spacious outdoor area for eating, drinking and playing games. Bocce ball, croquet, putt putt golf and lifesize Jenga are some of the games customers can play with friends, plus the food is delicious! Go to 601 Richmond Avenue (just off Spur 527) on Saturday, April 22nd for dinner and socializing. Chill out with friends on a warm spring night.
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New Foundation Board Trustees AnnouncedYour Foundation board consists of six trustees and the President-elect. Each year two persons rotate off. Filling the vacancies for the next three years are __________________________ |
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Delightful Social at 8th Wonder Brewery  The weather could not have been better on Wednesday night for our March social. We had a private room but opted to be outside. With dozens of choices in brews, everyone found something they liked. Thank you, Kimberly Phipps-Nichol, for coordinating this fun event. Thanks, too, Yvonne Ray, who funded an Uber for 7 so we had no worries about the drives.
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Calling All Poker Players Jack Wallace invites you to join him and Rotarians from the Galleria River Oaks Club in this joint fun(d)raiser tournament of Texas Hold 'em Poker on Saturday, April 8th. Event starts with lunch at 12 noon and play begins at 1:00 pm at the Oxford Condos, a 20 story building at 5150 Hidalgo, behind the Galleria. Buy-in is $50. RSVP to Jack at jackwallacerotary@yahoo.com or text or call 713-705-8661
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District Conference Fast Approaching- Have You Registered? District Conference is our annual gathering of all clubs to learn about and celebrate our accomplishments and make new friends and see old ones. Rotary becomes more rewarding to you when you meet more people outside our club. You get a better understanding of just how important Rotary is to the world as you hear speakers explain how and who we have helped in the last year. DG Eric Liu loves to have fun so expect some fun surprises. Dress is casual except Saturday night which is black tie optional. First time attendees registration fee ($235) is reimbursed by the club. Register here: https://www.crsadmin.com/EventPortal/Registrations/PublicFill/EventPublicFill.aspx?evtid=7773e33b-57b9-4010-8427-73adf0d69837 To register for a room at La Torretta Lake Resort, click here: https://aws.passkey.com/event/14145764/owner/10957635/home This year on Friday night Bob Fry and Jack Wallace, both homeowners of swankiendas on Lake Conroe, will open their homes to us for a dinner with the cocktails and appetizers at Jack's and dinner at Bob's. Reservations are first-come, first-serve, and tickets are $25 per person. Give your RSVP and check to Greg Faldyn (payable to West U Rotary) at Thursday meetings. Get your spot before it fills up! |
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Homeless Veteran Care Kits Project Grows On Monday, March 13, Rotarians met at Sheltering Arms Senior Services on Aberdeen to create personal care kits for veterans living on the streets. We were aided by the day center clients at Sheltering Arms, enabling us to serve two constituencies at once. We hit a new high, creating over 200 loaded bags which will be dispersed by staff from Neighborhood Centers. Thanks to all how came out to help with this project. They are: leader Chad Spencer, Serena Sneeringer, Chuck Guffey, John Collier, Jane Richardson, Carol Lester, and also to Katie Scott for organizing the assistance of Sheltering Arms clients and staff.
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Book Warehouse Gets Needed Repairs   The ladies room wall was nothing more than a shower curtain. The men's room had no doorknob. A light fixture hung loosely on a wall. So was the state of the book warehouse in Pasadena. Thanks to Terry LeFevre and Wendy and Andy Heister for bringing this to our attention. We wasted no time from seeing the need to getting it done. Thank you, Terry, George Adams and Bob Owen for putting in the hours and sweat to finish this important project.
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Brewery Social on Wednesday, 3/22 Come to 8th Wonder Brewery, 2202 Dallas Street, on Wednesday, March 22 from 6-8 pm for our March social. RSVP to Kimberly Phipps-Nichol at bluewaterstudio.us@mac.com. $25 per person for 3 beers, tour and a private space for us. Eatsie Boys food truck will be on site if you want munchies. Parking is tight so if you want to carpool or Uber together, meet up at Skeeters at 5:20. We will plan to depart at 5:30. If the weather is nice, their huge outdoor patio will be delightful! Don't miss this one!
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District Leadership Training Is April 1stWill you be serving on the club or foundation board next year? Want to learn more about how clubs and the district function? Want to grow as a leader? If you answered yes to any of these questions then attend the District Leadership Training on Saturday, April 1st at HCC on the West Loop from 8:15 to 12:30. The club pays the $15 cost but you must register. Go to https://portal.clubrunner.ca/50025/Event/club-leadership
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Challenger Concession Opportunity Begins Play ball! And in the Challenger league all kids can! Come help in the Dugout concession during their Sunday games. Arrive at 1:30 and work till 3:30 on March 26, April 2, 9, 23, 30 and May 7. Contact Dick Cancelmo to get on the schedule. Positions fill up fast so don't delay. Email dcancelmo@bridgeway.com
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Want to know more about "Have Shears Will Travel"? |
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Rotary Foundation Centennial Celebration on April 1, 2017 |
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Fourth of July Proceeds Fund Challenger Scholarships Joni Fichter of the Challenger Baseball League receives our donation of $3000 from the 2016 Fourth of July food event.
The team of Leslie Cauffman, Judy Faulkner and leader Richard Lazear will no doubt exceed that this year. Be sure to volunteer to help and march in the kazoo band.
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Go Texan Day at Rotary The Rodeo is in town! We mark the occasion with our own Go Texan Day!
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This Week's Projects NeedsMONEY:
This week Chad is collecting monetary donations for the homeless veterans kits to be created on March 13. Please be generous.
MUSCLE: On Saturday there's a book sorting at the book warehouse in Pasadena. Some regulars will be missing so your help is needed to direct the youth volunteers. The warehouse is located at 116 Main St. in Pasadena (park on Eagle St. or under Hwy 225 and cross the street). Do not leave valuables in your car. No a/c or heat in warehouse so dress appropriately.
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New Flag Year Begins .jpg) The first national holiday of 2017 was Monday, and the flags are still out beautifying the neighborhood. Thanks, everyone and especially the flag team. Flag sales fund nearly all the service projects we do.
Be sure to retrieve the flags this week, setting aside faded or broken flags in the repair bin of the warehouse.
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Super Bowl Party WinnersCongratulations to the winners of the Super Bowl football pool, Margarita Hernandez and Bob Owen, but mostly Polio Plus who received the winnings from 3 quarters, or approx. $200!
 Thanks to everyone who brought food and especially to the hostesses who brought additional seating, helped set-up, serve, replenish and clean up in the end. A great time was had by all (except Falcons fans).
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Go Texans Day at March 2 Meeting  The Rodeo is coming with the trail riders, Bar B Q cookoffs, and the rodeo and carnival beginning March 2. Let's celebrate by coming in your western wear on Thursday, March 2. Hats, belts, skirts, boots, bolos, vests, chaps.... let's see how crazy we can get!
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Valentine's Day of Service Recap Starting at 6:30 a.m. Rotarians started showing up to cook pancakes for seniors at the West U Community Center.
Right after that Rotarians went to The Women's Home to be part of RI President John Germ's tour of our service partner,
 and for dinner, Rotarians attended the All Club Dinner.
 Thanks to all who came to one, two or all three events. And Congrats to the Crazies....Richard Lazear, Joe Groom, and George Adams!
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Mardi Gras Pot Luck, Feb 22, 2017 |
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Golf Tournament on April 24th Benefits PEPThis year the golf tournament will occur on Monday, April 24th. Please mark that on your calendars now.
 This year's beneficiary will be Prison Entrepreneurship Program (PEP). Ex-convicts often find themselves unable to find jobs upon their release. PEP trains inmates in job skills and running a business of their own.
PEP is dedicated to delivering the nation’s best outcomes in the prison re-entry field including 100% employment within 90 days of release, almost 300 businesses launched by 1500 graduates, and a recidivism rate of 7%.
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Group Membership Installation Impresses What a sight it was to see FIVE new members receiving their blue badges at once, accompanied by their sponsors and mentors! A very diverse group in terms of gender, age, ethnicity and backgrounds. Great job, membership committee, mentors and sponsors, and especially, Frank Eggleston, Joe Groom, Margarita Hernandez, Michael Huey and Kimberly Phipps-Nichol!
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Congratulations New Blue BadgersWhat an impressive scene it was as five new members received their Blue Badges on Thursday, January 19. Congratulations Frank Eggleston, Joe Groom, Margarita Hernandez, Michael Huey, and Kimberly Phipps-Nichol and great job by the Membership Committee and the mentors and sponsors.
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Marathon Flags Wow Runners Having run the Houston marathon, I can tell you that entering West U and seeing all the flags makes a runner feel loved and encouraged. Runners remember it years later. Thank you to everyone who helped launch and retrieve the flags. They are (alphabetically) George Adams, Kerry Bloom, John Collier, Suzanne Diecks, Judy Faulkner, Chuck & Kathy Guffey, Wendy & Andy Hiester, Willie Jones, A.J. Karian, Richard & Lee Lazear, Terry LeFebvre, Dan O'dell, Jane Richardson, Cecile Schutter, and Jim Waters. Please let me know if I missed you in this list.
And Congratulations to our own Steven Vaughan who ran the Half Marathon in 1:46. We are proud of you!
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Super Bowl Party is ON! The Party is ON! Come to Carol L's house at 6504 Auden Street in Southside Place at 5:00 to watch the beeeg game. Bring a dish to serve 10-12 and the your own libation. See you there!
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We Mourn Vernon Tyger We were all shocked to learn that Vernon Tyger died on Friday, January 13, 2017. He loved us and we loved him back.
Please keep his family in your prayers. We are discussing the best way for the club to remember Vernon and will share that when ready.
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George Adams and Chuck Guffey Are the Craziest On Saturday, January 14th, our club offered three service opportunities. Only George Adams and Chuck Guffey were at all three! They went to book sorting at 9:00, helped with the marathon flag launch, and went on our visit to Jim Hall at 3:00.
They win the prize this week for being "Crazy About Rotary"!
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Come Out to Sunday's Game NightHead over to 100% Taquito, 3245 SW Freeway (between Buffalo Speedway and Edloe), and learn to play Mexican Train Dominoes, while enjoying a refreshing drink, Mexican City Street Food, laughter and fun with your fellow Rotarians and friends.
Time: 6:00 - 8:00 pm
Counter service, food and drinks.
Please RSVP to Wendy Hiester, whiester1@gmail.com.
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Follow Us on Facebook Do you ever wonder where the photos appear that get taken at every meeting? the socials?
These get posted to our Facebook page. Have you "Liked" us yet, so you can see the stories, the photos, the upcoming programs?
Our page is Rotary Club of West U. Stay informed and help us spread the word about how great our club is.
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Holiday Happy Hour at The Owl, Dec 22, 2016 Laughter abounded as more than 25 Rotarians and friends celebrated more holiday cheer at the happy hour at The Owl on December 22, 2016. Russ Schulze once again paid for the first round (thanks, Russ). For more photos from that night, visit our Facebook page...Rotary Club of West U. Thank you to the social committee for arranging this low key, relaxing event.
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Board for 2017-18 ApprovedThe club unanimously approved the slate of candidates for the 2017-18 board at the December 8th meeting.
The board for next year will be:
President: George Adams
President-Elect: Clyde Hays
Vice-President (therefore President in 3 years): Stacy Brevard
Treasurer: Craig Friou and Jim Waters
Club Secretary: Dan O'Dell
Board Secretary: Paul Cornett
Directors & remaining years: Lisa Bunse, Suzanne Diecks, A J Karian, Terry LeFebvre, Chad Spencer.
Thank you to all who agreed to serve the club, and to Clyde Hays, Cecile Schutter and Brennan Reilly for serving on the nominating committee.
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Parties on Thursday, 12/22Yes, we are having a morning meeting on Thursday, December 22. There will be no speaker but there will be a giant raffle and some games. This will also be the last meeting to which you can bring your Star of Hope donations for our holiday project. Come ready for a festive time.
  Then later that day we will have a Holiday Happy Hour at The Owl Bar, owned by Russell Schulze, son of Russ Schulze. Located at 2221 West Alabama, between Kirby and Shepherd on the south side of the street, The Owl has a warm and relaxed ambiance and has become our default holiday happy hour bar for good reason. Come out and toast our friendships from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. It won't be the same without YOU!
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Raffle Items Sought Everyone loves to win! And everyone shall on Thursday in our holiday raffle. No purchase necessary. But we could use more prizes. Donate stuff you already have that is in good shape with many years of enjoyment still to be had. Gag gifts welcome. Go through your stuff and bring the unwanted items to the meeting on Thursday.
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Holiday Party Cheer |
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Claim Your Seat at All Club Now! This year's All Club Dinner featuring the new RI President John Germ will be held on Valentine's night, February 14, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel by NRG Stadium. We have reserved one table of ten so far. If you wish to claim one or more of the seats, respond to a dedicated email to go out shortly. Tickets are $100 per person. We can get more than one table but early RSVPs makes for better location so respond quickly when you receive the email. Thanks.
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Last Chance to Donate: Star of Hope We are collecting toiletries, over-the-counter meds, diapers (size 5-6) and pull-ups, and wipes for donating to the Star of Hope mission. Only one remaining meeting to bring donations. Let me know if you want to help with delivery on Friday, 12/23.
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Speaker in December Could Be YOU! Got an interesting hobby? Striving toward a challenging goal? Passionate about something?
For two meetings in December we open up the floor to members to step to the lectern and tell us about their non-professional lives. See Clyde Hays about which date is best, December 15 or December 29.
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Announcing the Nominations for 2017-2018 Club BoardClyde Hays and the nominating committee of Cecile Schutter and Brennan Reilly propose a slate of candidates for the club board for next year. They are as follows:
Vice President: Stacy Brevard
Treasurer: Craig Friou, Asst. Treas: Jim Waters
Club Secretary: Dan O'dell
Board Secretary: Paul Cornett Directors: A.J. Karian, Terry LeFevre, Chad Spencer, Suzanne Diecks, Lisa Bunse.
At the meeting on December 8th you will be asked to cast your vote on this slate. If you wish to be considered for any of these positions, you must let Clyde know by December 1st.
Thank you, Clyde, Cecile and Brennan, for recruiting this wonderful slate of leaders. |
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Yes, We Are The FUN Club! And here's the proof! Thanks to all who had the courage to come in costume last week, trusting that you would not be the only ones!
I am so proud of you. :)
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Dues are DuePlease don't forget to pay your dues for the six month period covering October 2016 through March 2017. Give your check to Treasurer Craig Friou at the door. Thanks.
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Blood Drive on Thursday, November 17Our second blood drive for 2016 will be on Thursday, November 17. If you signed up to give, please be sure to keep your appointment. If you have not but wish to, contact Bob Geary at rjgeary@swbell.net to get on the schedule. Thanks.
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Sometimes You Gotta Get Away And so I did. My hubby and I drove out to Big Bend last Thursday and enjoyed the solitude of this expansive moonscape park.
Imagine being the only car on the road for miles...not meeting another person on a day hike. Big Bend National Park is the perfect spot for decompressing from any stresses you carry. Now back to work!
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Acts of Good by Members.JPG) So what are our members doing in their Acts of Good? Plenty.
1. Serena taught a meditation workshop
2. Cecile helped Willie get into a new, safe apartment
3. Leslie sewed badges on a granddaughter's Girl Scout sash
4. Terry LeFevre built a step to help Ray get in and out of bed
5. George visited cancer patients at Faith House
6. Phil loaded books on sorting day
7. Marilyn met a stranger in a restaurant eating alone on her birthday, also the day before surgery, then visited her after surgery, taking a treat.
8. Anonymous took a friend dinner following friend's surgery
9. Anonymous delivered bagels to Search Home for Homeless
10-20. Members met at IAH, hosted them, drove them around...the Russian VTT team
I am certain this is a mere fraction of the nice things we are doing. Don't be shy. Fill the cards in and let's wow them at RI with our goodness!
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Russian Visitors Love West U Rotarians Seven Russian doctors and one interpreter came to Houston and our members opened their doors, their hearts and set aside their own obligations to provide a life-changing experience to our Russian VTT visitors. They are gone now but you can be sure they will always remember the kindness of West U Rotarians. Thank you to everyone who played a part in making this experience possible for people most of us have grown up being programmed to think of as "the enemy". Rotary shatters those myths and gives us all a chance to be a peace ambassador. Nice job, folks!
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Camp for All Volunteer Day November 19Hands-on service opportunities are often the most rewarding work we do.
Camp for All is a barrier free camp located in Burton, Texas for children with various physical and emotional struggles. Through the support of staff and volunteers, they have an opportunity to focus on the joy of life. We will assist children from Easter Seals and Bo's Place by walking horses as they ride, take campers off the zip line, push canoes off docks or help with fishing.
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Holiday Party, Thursday, Dec. 8, 2016 Join your fellow Rotarians and friends for a sumptuous 4 course holiday banquet at:
Boca2 GastroBar & Bites (aka Frank's bar)
7951 Katy Fwy, Houston, TX 77024
Thursday, December 8, 2016
7:00 - 10:30 PM
Happy hour till 7:30 pm. Two glasses per person of selected wines. Cash bar all night. $50/person. Please RSVP to Honey Leveen, honey@honeyleveen.com.
Please give your check to treasurer Craig Friou.
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Social, Tuesday, Nov 22, 2016, Pronto Cucinino |
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Flag Price Increase in 2017 Flags have cost $50 per year for at least the last 10 years. Meanwhile the cost of everything has gone up. The board has approved a price increase to $75 per flag per year. Remember that flag income is the largest single source of our Foundation dollars...the money that projects are funded with. Increased income will allow us to do more and bigger things. Discussions are underway about how to provide assistance to loyal customers who may face hardship from the increase.
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Project Joy & Hope Funding ConsideredRecently we heard from Dr. Jan Wheeler and PDG Bob Gebhard about temporary housing made available to families who come to Houston for the treatment of their seriously ill children.
 A duplex costs $275,000 to build and we have been invited to participate at $25,000. The club board voted to support this. It will go to a vote of the Foundation board this week. If you have any comments about this project, please contact me (Carol Lester) or Carl Stutts (Foundation President) in the next few days. FYI, the foundation has that amount and more in undesignated reserves at this time so you will not be asked to donate any additional funds. Hopefully this will reduce the need of some families to sleep in their cars in the hospital parking lots due to the dearth of affordable housing options.
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By Laws Review Under WayA committee of members is reviewing the club bylaws at this time as much of what is in them is now inaccurate. If you have any comments to make, please send your comments to Bob Owen, George Adams, Greg Faldyn or Wally Kronzer.
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The Russians are Coming! The Russians are Coming! And they need a place to stay! An incoming Vocational Training Team of Russian medical professionals will arrive in Houston starting Sunday, October 30th and will be here till November 4th. Greg Faldyn is working very hard to organize their schedule and is still looking for host homes for some of the days. Hosting means providing a private bedroom and access to a bathroom (can be shared). Breakfast in the morning too. Day hosts are also needed to transport the team to the various hospitals and other events during their stay.
Consider opening your spare bedroom to one of the team and broadening your knowledge of the world. Maybe one day you will go to Russia, and you may have a new friend to show you around. Contact Greg Faldyn if you can help at 713-826-3160 or email cgfald@att.net
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Vision Pizza Event Spurs Ideas, Volunteers On Monday night approximately 40 members came out to hear the vision for the club that was developed at the recent District-led Visioning session.
Pizza, drinks, salad and cookies were followed by a point by point discussion of the future direction of the club. A recap of the top suggestions will be sent
to the entire club as an email attachment soon. If you missed the meeting but have ideas, let Carol or George know and they can direct you to the leader of that area.
Thanks to everyone who came out, helped set-up and take down. And to Judy Faulkner, who won the $50 gift card to McCormick & Schmicks.
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Costumes on Thursday! Let's get crazy on Thursday by coming to the meeting in costume!!!!
A mask, funny hat, or the full monty. Surprise and delight us on Thursday. Don't be chicken (or be a chicken!). You know you want to. Here is your chance. I look forward to seeing your outfit on Thursday.
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Youth Exchange Info Session Tonight!Do you know someone who you think would enjoy hosting an exchange student? Or a young person who would make a great exchange student?
Please let them know that tonight our club will be holding an information session for the community. John Thornton will lead the presentation and our current inbounds will also speak about the experience.
Come to the John Neighbors Room in the West U Community Building at 6104 Auden St. @ Rice at 7:00 pm to hear more.
No other opportunity to experience the world comes with such a low price tag, plus teams of support. Tell a friend!
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Pool Party, Oct 22, 2016 |
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Backpack project a huge hit!.jpg)  |
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Great turnout for Backpacks! Thanks to all the club Rotarians and their family and friends who came out on Saturday, August 13th, to load new backpacks to be given to children with limited resources starting school in a few days. It didn't take long for them to be put into service at the Shearn Elementary back-to-school day for area families.
Kudos to Chad Spencer for leading this effort and getting the backpacks at a better price, then having them embroidered so West U Rotary is seen by many. Who knows? Maybe some child carrying one of our backpacks will be a future Rotarian and recall this early exposure to what we are about. .JPG) |
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The Kids are Coming! Youth exchange, that is. Ayuri from Japan will arrive at IAH tomorrow at 9:30 a.m. A bunch of us will leave directly from the meeting to welcome her. If you can come, let us know and you can ride with Carol or George. We may go to lunch afterward, so budget a good chunk of time for this.
Alejo from Argentina will arrive next Tuesday at 5:00 a.m. Believe it or not, a bunch of us are going to rise early and meet him at IAH, too. Let Carol L, George, or John T know if you want to go along with us. At least we won’t hit traffic….. Bring a sign and/or dress Texan! Cowboys are what they expect, and we don't like to disappoint!
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Fashion show tickets availableThe Women’s Home has given our club 6 tickets to their Redux Fashion Show event.
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Dynamos & Rotary team upLike soccer? Rotary night at the Dynamos is this Saturday. Some tickets are still available.
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Backpack Day is Saturday The Back-to-School Backpack service project happens this Saturday at 9:30 a.m. at Texas Citizen’s Bank, 3636 Rice Boulevard at Edloe. So this week is your last chance to bring supplies or give a monetary donation to Chad before he goes shopping. This year he had the Rotary logo embroidered onto the backpacks. Great publicity for Rotary...way to go, Chad! Dress comfortably and come ready to work! All are invited.
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August is Membership MonthInvite a friend to Rotary this month. This week would be a good one to do that. Our speaker will be Winston Churchill’s great-grandson, Jonathon Sandys who will be introduced by PDG Bob Gebhard. He is the author of “God and Churchill” that tells the story about how Churchill had a premonition as a teenager that he would lead England in a turbulent time.
 Do you have a welcoming nature? Have a lot of ideas about how our club can grow? George Adams could use your help on his newly formed membership committee. Speak to George at a meeting or email him to find out how you can get involved. |
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Can you spare an hour? The Bagel Patrol needs help. What is the "Bagel Patrol"? Volunteers from our club go to the Hot Bagel Shop at 2009 Shepherd Drive (between San Felipe & Westheimer) at 1:50 pm Monday thru Friday and pick up all their unsold bagels and deliver them to either Star of Hope's Mens or Womens Center (your choice). If we did not go get these bagels, they would end up in the trash, and wouldn't that be a travesty? We are just one such organization that gathers up and redistributes unsold food every day in this town, and we are the rare Rotary Club that can say we do service projects at least 5 days a week as a result of the Bagel Patrol program.
You should have received an email from Bob Owen last week asking for volunteers and substitutes. If you can spare about an hour every week, or every two weeks, consider being a regular volunteer. If you can't commit to that degree of commitment, consider being on the substitute list, to step in when no one else is available. The current needs are for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday volunteers and subs.
 Thanks you for all you do for others. You are a gift to the world! |
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Wanted: Your friendly face! It's our custom to have an enthusiastic group waiting at the gate when our young overseas visitors arrive for their Youth Exchange year. This year some of our regulars will be unable to be present so we need some new people to join us on Thursday, August 11 at 9:30 a.m. and also on Friday, August 12 (time TBA). Ayuri from Japan will arrive on Thursday morning looking for a friendly face; let's show her many! We usually carpool to save gas and parking fees. Even if you can just do one of these days, please come out.
Let Carol L, John Thornton, or Judith Snively know if you can come and if you wish to carpool. You'll be glad you did.
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Start Buying & Bringing School SuppliesChad and Craig are now collecting school supplies to put into the backpacks we will be providing for needy students. Our stuffing date is August 13th, a mere 2 meetings from now. Do your shopping now for notebooks, pencils, colored markers, rulers, erasers, pens, protractors, scissors and more. Money is also accepted. Some store you are frequenting is selling supplies. Toss a box of pencils, notebooks, pens into your cart before you check out. Put the date on your calendar today!
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Art Party Social, Monday, August 22, 2016 |
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West U Rotary Bulletin week of July 18, 2016 It was great to see Kathy Kokas and husband Tom back at the club after months of travel. |
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Our club district grant project...WATER!The District Grant presentations happened on Saturday and I presented our grant application for a water filter to be installed in GilGil Kenya, near Nairobi.
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West U Rotary Bulletin: Happy New Rotary Year!HELLO WEST U ROTARIANS!
Happy New Year!
Greg officially handed off the baton of President to me at the Installation last Tuesday. It was a fun night with some surprises, including the awarding of Ray Schutter with the Lifetime Achievement Award. It was a touching scene, bringing tears to many. Congratulations to the Rookie Rotarian of the Year, Serena Sneeringer, and Rotarians of the Year, the flag team of Richard Lazear, Carmen Flores, Kerry Bloom and Terry LeFevre. They put in more hours than any other group in the club. They, and Ray before them, could rightfully be the Rotarians of the Year every year. And thank you, Greg, and outgoing board members for your service to our club in 2015-16. You did an outstanding job steering our club to new levels of service, giving, and member satisfaction.
  Speaking of flags, we are on holiday #3 of our flag calendar. The neighborhood looks festive. New online subscriptions are coming in at a steady pace since it is so easy to subscribe online now. Thank you, everyone, for supporting the flag program with your time and energy. It is growing and will continue to grow even more in the future. That means more funds to help more people! Woo! Woo!
Monday was July 4th and the "World Famous West U Rotary Club Kazoo Marching Band" once again delighted residents with their patriotic songs. Lots of people took photos of us. Thank you, Gene McFadden, for lining up the float for us, and Richard Lazear for decorating it and getting sponsors again this year, so that we can give a larger gift to the West U Challenger program. Thanks, too, to Tim O'Connor & the Recreation Department of the City of West U for absorbing most of the tasks we Rotarians used to do, and to the Lazear boys, and Leslie Cauffman for manning the concession stand.
 Last week was a busy week for our Youth Exchange program. Our outbounds, Rob Sanford and Elias Ormsby, came home and our inbound, Maciej, left us. Hear about Rob and Elias's year abroad at this week's meeting. We as a club should be proud of what we are making possible for young people through RYE. We are changing lives and cultivating peace ambassadors that will be tomorrow's leaders.
  Rotarians...Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be your President. Thank you, Beverly Denver, for starting West U Rotary so I could one day join it. Thank you, Kathy Kokas, for inviting to join, and thank you ALL for making our club the incredibly high functioning, drama-free, world-changing organization that it is today. Together, we will reach new heights of accomplishment and new heights of CRAZY! I can't wait!
Carol
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of June 26th |
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of June 19thWest U Rotary Club Assembly - Thursday, June 23rd.
District 5890 Neighborhood Clean Up and Revitalization this Saturday
West U Rotary Officer Installation Dinner - Tuesday, June 28th.
West U Rotary Award Presentation - Thursday, June 30th
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of June 12thRotarians help rebuild communities
Maciej presents his year in H-town
Installation dinner is scheduled for June 28th - please RSVP
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of June 5thThe 20th Annual West U Rotary Golf Tournament was a success!
Maciej presents his year in review!
June's events and activities.
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of May 29thMemorial Day - may we never forget!
Golf Tournament is next week - come out and support Emergency Aid Coalition
This week's speaker is Bill Boyce - discussing his father's tour in World War II
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of May 22ndTravels to California and South KoreaFloatin' down the Bayou!Our guest speaker this week is Willie Jones Jr - don't miss this special presentation |
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West U Rotary Happenings for May 16Paul Harris Society Dinner ... Thank you for your support!
This week's speaker is Larry Gregory of the Lone Star Flight Museum
How 'bout a little floatin' down the river ... ok ... bayou
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of May 8thRoll out the red carpet ...
... And this year's winners are ...
This week's speaker is Bill Orlin - the Holocaust Museum
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of May 1stDistrict Conference Wrap Up - Thank you West U
A most special recognition is presented a club member
This week - Vocational Awards Presentation
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of April 24th2016 Golf Tournament Rescheduled
District Conference - Galveston, TX
Challenger League - Last week (Come join us cheer on the teams)!
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Brooklyn Athletic Club Happy Hour/Dinner onThursday, April 21, 2016 |
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of April 17thHistoric Day in Houston and for West U Rotary
A Special Matching Donation Opportunity
District Conference Just Around the Corner
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Golf Tournament CancelledDue to massive rains and flooding, the 20th Annual West U Rotary Golf Tournament has been
cancelled. The team will work on rescheduling this event for a later date. Stay tuned for
details. Thank you for your understanding and support.
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of April 10thLots of Volunteer Opportunities in April
Guest Speaker is Kim Sawyer - Executive Coach
Baseball season in Houston is in full stride - join us for Challenger League
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of April 3rdLots of Houston events in April.
This week's speaker is Erica Skerrett from Rice 360 Institute of Global Health
Lots of West U Rotary events in April
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of March 27thHouston is home for the NCAA Final Four!
Our Guest Speaker - Dayna Steele the first lady of Rock 'n Roll
Lots of April activities - come on out and join us!
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Brooklyn Athletic Club Happy Hour/Dinner, Thursday, April 21, 2016 |
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of March 20th |
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of March 13thLocal Rotarian scores big in DIPG Tournament
Rotarians support our local Vets!
Wheels and Keels - 21st Annual Showcase
District Conference - Galveston, Texas
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of March 6thThis week in history
LOTS of spring events - participate in what you would like.
DIPG Bowling Event at Palace Lanes
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of February 28Leap year tidbits.
This week's special guest is Mary Green, Director of the Hay Center.
It is time for Challenger League. Come out to the baseball fields and support the teams!
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of February 21Happy birthday Rotary!
Jean West Evans - Executive Director for the Emergency Aid Coalition
Lots of spring activities.
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of February 14A brief history of Valentine's Day
This week's speaker - Davis Adams: Houston Commercial Real Estate Market
This month's 21st Social - Heart and Soul at the Ensemble Theater
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of February 7Our Superbowl party was ... well ... super.DEA Special Agent Joseph Arabit is our guest speaker this week.Volunteer Opportunities |
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of January 31This week in history. This week in Rotary history.
This week's special guest - Hank Moore author of Houston Legends
Texas Hold Em Championship Battle
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Super Bowl Party, February 7, 2016 |
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of January 24 |
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Thursday Night at the Museum |
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of January 17Tidbits about the Houston Marathon
Guest Speaker this week is Ana Schick - the Director of Small Steps Nurturing Center
Come join us at the Rothko Exhibit at MFAH
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of January 10All Club Meeting with RI President K.R. "Ravi" Ravidran
Honoring Special Rotarians at our meeting
Flag set up for the Houston Marathon
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of January 3Special appearance from Harris County District Attorney.
Rotary's Disaster Aid trailer is deployed to assist with tornado ravaged areas
Upcoming tribute to West U Rotarians
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of December 27End of the year fellowship meeting
Consider end of year donations to Rotary International
Words to the wise
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Holiday Happy Hour |
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Big Apple West U Rotary Holiday Party |
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of November 29 |
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Thanksgiving Fellowship |
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of November 22 |
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of November 15The Houston economy receives a boost
Foundation Giving - how WUR can continue to support
Our guests from Rice University
Striving to end conflict and inspire hope in divided societies
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of November 8Comp-U-Dopt donates in excess of 1,000 computers.
Dr Joe Karlgaard discusses the Rice Athletic program.
Membership Development and Retention Goals for our Club.
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of October 31West U welcomes District Governor Nick Giannone!
Our guest speaker this week - Megan Stecklly - donating computers to children around the world
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of October 31West U Rotary Welcomes District Governor Nick Giannone!
This week's speaker Megan Stecklly - donating computers to underserved children.
Our newest Paul Harris Society Member!
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of October 24Welcome District Governor Nick Giannone
Polio - We are This Close!
Our 4th Social - Toasting with Howard Hughes
Little Free Libraries
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Cemetery Tour on Wednesday, Oct 21, 2015 |
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West U Rotary Happenings for October 17Monthly Social at Hughes Hangar
World End Polio Day
Service Opportunities with our young adults
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of October 11Welcome to our new location - Paul's Kitchen.
Are we now a singing club?
Lots of volunteer and social opportunities for October.
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West U Rotary Happenings for the week of September 6A Brief History of Labor Day
August Membership comes to a close
2 Socials in September
Club Board Meeting
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Don't forget to check in with Kate, Ally and Christina on their Year as Exchange StudentsA big, whopping, how-are-you-people-so-amazing thank you to all of Rotary! To my sponsor Club in West U (Especially my excellent counselor Carol Lester), District 5890, District 1630, and my INCREDIBLE host club in Fléron. http://katedoessomething.wordpress.com/2014/09/28/new-beginnings-also-bacon/ You can find a quick link to Kate's blog on the front page of www.westurotary.org
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What is RCC - Rotary Community CorpsD5890 has formed it's first RCC - Rotary Community Corp.
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Easy LinksNo - this is not about golf! |
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As I left the car and approached the station (my cowboy boots making a satisfying clack-clack on the cobblestone,) an air of undeniable adolescent awk-an-air-of-und/KateBarkleyBelgium.jpg)
Kate Barkley will be really enjoyable to follow on her adventures in Belgium. Her writing style is very entertaining. http://katedoessomething.wordpress.com/author/katebarkley14/ |
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Packing Books for AfricaRC of West U has been an active participant in the District Project Books for Africa. Every month members of club and interact clubs put on their gloves and working jeans to pack books on pallets to be ship to multiple countries in Africa, plus Argentina, India and Pakistan. Many thanks to the donors of these books too - from individuals, to libraries and school divisions. Even though August is the least pleasant month for this work, a good strong couple dozen folks JUST DID IT!
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Get to know Bolivia through the hearts of the young!
The Rotary Club of West U is so proud of having sponsored the daughter of one of our club members, Joanna LeFebvre, to spend a year as a Rotary Ambassador through the Rotary Youth Exchange (RYE) program. Joanna chose Bolivia and now she has returned more confident and poised and gained understanding and an appreciation for another culture. Her Spanish is impeccable too! Here's a great story about Joanna's year.
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It's a bitter sweet time of year..........
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Rotary Youth Exchange - Opportunity of Life
Thank you Carol Lester and John Thornton for submitting a great article to the Southwest News about the joys of hosting and participating in the Rotary Youth Exchange program. The attached photo is of our exchange student, Federico Stefanoni and Rob Sanford (son of Rotarian Bentley Sanford) in San Diego, California last week during spring break touring the USS Midway. |
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West U Rotary Makes Surprise Announcement About Golf Tournament
The Rotary Club of West U did something this year they have never done before with their annual golf tournament -- they chose the same non-profit organization in back to back years. The repeat beneficiary is +Works, pronounced Positive Works, a young organization founded by two area moms concerned with the epidemic of bullying after it touched them personally, and seemed to only be getting worse.
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It really is a small world!
In November 2013 West U Travel had a visit from Trevor Standefor, an American now living in Normandy, France who conducts private American D-Day Tours. He told us he knew a small village in Normandy that flies the flag of Texas in their small city hall and that it was in a battered state. They do this to honor LTC. James E. Rudder who as you know became president of A&M after the war. He lead an assault up 100 foot high cliffs on D-Day because the artillery guns at the top were threatening the landings at Utah and Omaha beaches. Ray gave Norman a West U Rotary Club Texas Flags. This month we got a message from Norman.
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RYE - Megan and her Adventures in PolandMerry (late) Christmas and Happy New Year! Sorry for the delay of my report, I was out of town without internet access and I am just now getting back to Bydgoszcz. Warning- my next report will be a little late also, because at the end of January/ beginning of February I am going on a ski trip in Italy! December was a very memorable month for me.
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Rotary Club of West U - Vocational Scholarships for Rice UniversityROTARY COMMUNITY SERVICE SCHOLARSHIP To promote and recognize community service by Rice students, the Rotary Club of West University Place offers a $3000 scholarship in the spring of each year to a continuing undergraduate student at Rice University. An important criterion for selection is the applicant's record of community service outside the Rice campus community that embodies the Rotary motto of "Service above Self". The recipient must have at least one more full-time semester at Rice after the current spring semester before graduation and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.2. He/she must also have graduated from high school no later than August, 2012. Finalists will be interviewed and the winner asked to attend a Rotary meeting to accept the award and give a brief talk on his/her service activities. The scholarship money will be remitted directly to the recipient's account at Rice. Melody Tan was last year's winner.
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Visit the Rotary e-Club of Houston’s website and get that make-up.
Both our inbound and outbound youth exchange students are beginning to realize they only have a short couple of months and then they are homeward bound. It's a time of mixed feelings - i hope you will enjoy this article from Megan Scofield who is currently in Poland.
