Program June 4, 2013: Kelly Donohue-Marketing and Outreach Coordinator for Creative Mediation

By Dick Dannells

Pres. Gary Bayus opened the meeting at 12:34 PM and began by catching up on fines.

FINES:

Mike Kee and Mark Olson were respectively fined $30 and $20 for advertising Coast National Bank. Jonathan Rubatzky was fined $75 for cell phone infractions. John Murphy was fined $10 for a guest introduction infraction. Bruce Beaudoin and Chuck Anders divided a fine of $85 between them for coming in on the winning team at a Cypress Ridge Rotary golf tournament. Steve Curry was $25 for his participation in golfing.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Bruce Beaudoin gave a short spiel about the District 5240 pilot program called Ignite to recruit qualified members into Rotary.  John Weiss, the Rotary zone chairman for the Ignite program also spoke briefly on the subject. Cindy Nichols of the Rotary Club of Grover Beach came forward and presented our club with an Ignite emblem to encourage growth of quality members. Bruce Beaudoin came to the podium wearing his membership chair hat to induct our newest member Eddie Auran

Program June 4, 2013: Kelly Donohue-Marketing and Outreach Coordinator for Creative Mediation

Cliff Nagler introduced Kelly who illustrated a conflict over one orange. When the mother came in and found her daughters arguing over who gets the single orange that was left in the refrigerator, she cut the orange and gave each a half. Each daughter stormed out because they were not satisfied with the solution to the problem. As it turned out, one of the daughters needed the orange peels as part of her cake that she was baking. The other one wanted the juice from the single orange to give her energy to race in the track meet. If mother had sat down with the daughters and found out their real problem, she could've provided juice for one daughter and peels of orange to the other. This is how Kelly got involved in forming a group called creative mediation, which is now a fully nonprofit 501(c) organization that provides mediation services without cost for those that cannot afford it. Kelly states that "When dialogue escalates into argument and agreement seems hopeless, there is a way to get through it all. Welcome to Creative Mediation." Her non-profit also can be used to improve any organization’s effectiveness and to enhance employee's communication.

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

"Of all the properties which belong to honorable men, not one is so highly prized as that of character."

Henry Clay

"Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved."

Helen Keller

Program May 7, 2013: Michael Boyer - RYLA and Connie O Henley - Arroyo Grande High School Interact Club

By Dick Dannells

Pres. Gary Bayus opened the meeting at 12:34 PM by auctioning off the fine-free pin to Bruce Beaudoin for $90.

FINES:

John Murphy levied a fine of $50 on Pres. Gary for failing to have our guests introduced. Deborah Handley was fined a total of $60 for moving into a new house and to recognize her birthday. The following birthdays were also fined: $98.33 for Don Weber; $90 for Charla Anderson; $30 for Frank Montesinos; $0.00 for Bruce Beaudoin (he has the fine-free pin); $93 for Chuck Anders; and $25 for Mary Ann Reese. Linda Osty has not kept up her profile in Club Runner, which cost her $30. Martha Murphy would have been fined $290 for her club anniversary if she had not said "My husband is my joke." This reduced her fine to $145. Keith Slocum previous fine was reduced to $25 for making a good guest introduction.

Program: Michael Boyer- RYLA and Connie O Henley - Arroyo Grande High School Interact Club

Michael presented five RYLA students who reported on their experiences at the camp. One student reported that enabled him to figure out what he could do when he puts his mind to the task. Connie O Henley gave a power point presentation of the Interact Clubs activities for the year and then presented the officers of the club that has been celebrating Rotary International’s 50th anniversary of the first chartered Interact club and its more than 20 years at the Arroyo grande high school. The club presently enjoys participation of between 30 and 70 students. Their goals for the year have been to promote service above self, to increase membership and participation, to restructure the officer team so that it can develop younger leaders and to raise funds for both the local community and international causes. The community activities for the year included the soccer tournament, track meet, Thanksgiving dinner, Christmas party, the AG chili festival, and the fish fry at the AG harvest festival. One of the ways they have been able to increase participation in these community service activities is to encourage the members to bring their friends friends. International Services included attending the STEPS (symposium to eliminate poverty sustainably) conference.  After attending, they used a bowl-a-thon to raise $1000 to send thousand water filters to Zambia.

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

I'd like to buy a pickup truck for my wife that goes from 0 to 400 in 2 seconds, so he bought her a new bathroom scale.

“Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.

― Albert Einstein

Program April 30, 2013: Charmaine Petersen "Senior Living Consultants"

By Dick Dannells

Pres. Gary Bayus opened the meeting at 12:30 PM to provide extra time to distribute the $15,000 to local charities that was raised during our Summer Sizzle fundraiser.

FINES:

Andy Park's April 28 birthday was celebrated with a $25 assessment. If Pres. Gary gave Don Weber $1 million, Don would give it to Paul Toms' church.

COMMUNITY GIVING:

Sponsor                                  Charity

Steve Curry                             FFA

Trish Hardy                             Big Brother and Big Sister

Doug McMillan                       Five Cities Soccer

Sandy Lubin                           Clark Ctr. Association           

Vickie Pennisi                         Girl Scouts of Nipomo

Dick Dannells                         Meals on Wheels For The Five Cities

Steve Curry                             SLO County Women's Aid

Don Weber                              South County People's kitchen

Ashlea Boyer                          St. Patrick's School

Martha And John Murphy      St. Patrick's Outreach

Paul Jones                               Teen Challenge

Cheryl Vines                           Valley View Academy

Chuck Anders                         YMCA of SLO County

Pres. Gary Bayus                    Youth with a Mission

Program: Charmaine Petersen "Senior Living Consultants" (SLC)

Cliff Nagler introduced Charmaine, a Placement Representative for SLC, whose job is to conduct a brief evaluation of a senior's needs either in person or over the phone. She will then refer the senior to the type of Assisted Living Facility that will best meet his or her needs. She offers help to those having financial difficulties. The cost for a 24-hour day facility in one of the 100 least expensive facilities from San Luis Obispo to Santa Maria averages $130/day. The cost of facilities in Santa Maria is about half that in San Luis Obispo. One requirement for housing in one of these facilities is that senior's total net worth, excluding furniture, home and one car, is $80,000 or less. In the event that one does not meet this requirement, she will discuss further options. 90% of the senior living facilities are run by individuals from the Philippines. If cost is no object, there are a number of facilities in the area to meet almost any need. She makes sure that non-dementia patients are not placed with those suffering from some form of dementia. SLC constantly monitor these homes in which seniors are placed to make sure they are not deficient in the care that they provide.

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

“Kindness is a language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see”

Program April 23, 2013: Lisa Ray "Children's Resource Network of the Central Coast"

By Dick Dannells

Pres. Gary Bayus was back at the helm and opened the meeting at 12:40 PM.

FINES:

Cliff Nagler's club anniversary fine was reduced from $600 down to $25 with a joke.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Sandy Lubin presented a check to Eddie Aleran of Destination Imagination. These funds will help send students to the nationwide tournament on May 22-25, 2013 in Knoxville Tennessee. Madaline of the Rotaract Club of SLO reported that the World Bicycle Relief Poker Run Poker Run fundraising event will take place on May 21. The proceeds will go to providing bicycles to those in need in such countries as Africa. Michael Boyer reported that we have six students from this area to attend Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) next weekend.

Program: Lisa Ray "Children's Resource Network of the Central Coast" (CRNCC)

Dave Cliff Nagler introduced Lisa who explained that (CRNCC), which is now a registered non-profit organization, provides disadvantaged children and at-risk youth in SLO and northern SB Counties with free clothing, blankets, books, backpacks, school supplies, diapers, toiletries and other items to meet their educational and personal basic needs. In August 2009, Lisa saw a need for such an organization and began helping children when she went to her child's school and was told they had no children that had such a need. However, she did find a young girl who was sleeping in the back of a car without adequate clothing so Lisa provided her with such a basic need. Since its inception, CRNCC has provided such support to over 6000 children in the Central Coast. Providing such support at this critical phase of a child's life develops self-confidence and self-esteem. She gave credit to Home Depot for donating the necessary equipment to outfit their current facility. It includes a clothes closet for teenagers that allow them to choose their own clothing. Senior citizens of the AG Care Center launder clothing to make them suitable for donation. They now have a truck and go where the need is for example the park the truck in the Santa Maria area so that over 3000 children from the nearby farms have been provided with clothing.

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

“Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all.”

Dale Carnegie

Program April 16, 2013: Janice Nichols and Shelly Higginbotham-"South County Coalition’s Homeless Shelter"

By Dick Dannells

Paul Toms, in the absence of Pres. Gary Bayus, presided over the meeting and stated that he will run a different type of meeting than usual. In a typical fashion for a Minister, Paul passed the collection plate around with the $121 that was collected to the donated to the club.

FINES:

Andy Park turned in his blue badge for a red one and was fined $50 that was reduced to $25 because of a joke. Steve Curry's anniversary was recognized without a fine because he was in possession of the fine-free pin.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Joel Conn reported that he and other the volunteer judges have read the Four-Way Test essays and have come up with the winners in every category. Tuesday, July 9 is the new date set for the demotion of Pres. Gary Bayus

Program: Janice Nichols and Shelly Higginbotham-"South County Coalition’s Homeless Shelter"

Dave Cliff Nagler introduced Janice and Shelly who have been dealing with the problem of providing a shelter for the homeless in the South County from Avila Beach to Nipomo. The biggest problem is to decide exactly where this shelter will be located so that it avoids placing the public at risk, does not adversely affect the surrounding neighborhood, is accessible to the homeless, is not near schools, and is accessible by bus service. Until such a structure is available, the South County coalition is at least trying to find a warming center to help the homeless stay dry during inclement weather.  There is a national problem in providing safety for the public from homeless drug addicts and alcoholics. While providing temporary housing for the homeless is of immediate concern, the long term solution is to get such individuals into permanent housing rentals. September 25, 2013 is the date set for the next Empty Bowl fundraising luncheon to raise money for such a shelter.

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

"A successful man is one who can lay a firm foundation with the bricks others have thrown at him."

David Brinkley

Program April 9, 2013: Dave Watson and Carol Florence-"The Pismo Beach Spanish Springs Development"

By Dick Dannells

At 12:38 PM Pres. Gary Bayus began the meeting with the usual toast.

FINES:

Terry and Linda Fibich's 35th wedding anniversary fine was reduced to $25 by the joke about the Rabbi filling in for his chauffeur.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Brendan Reitsma is looking for volunteers to help on the annual literacy book. Kathy Fissori reported that the $15,000 of charitable contributions to 17 different organizations will be distributed in the next couple of weeks. May 3, 2013 from 6 to 9 PM is the date and time for the Lucia Mar Foundation For Innovation’s Evening in Italy $100/person charitable event. Connie O'Henley stated that there are three meetings left in the AGHS Interact calendar. Our annual soccer tournament will be held on Saturday, May 11. Doug McMillan announced the 6th Annual Martini Shakedown at Rosa's Restaurant on May 19th to support scholarships and to benefit the culinary arts curriculum of the Lucia Mar school district.       

Program: Dave Watson and Carol Florence-"The Pismo Beach Spanish Springs Development"

Dave stated that the development comprises 960 acres that combines three ranches between Price Canyon Road on the north and the city limits of Pismo Beach on the east. Approximately 73% of the land will remain open space. The project includes a 150 room hotel and conference center, a wine center, and retail stores. 52 acres will be devoted to a park with a nine hole golf course, which will be the first of its kind once the entire 960 acres is annexed by Pismo Beach. 120 homes will be for seniors, 73 multifamily residences and 416 single-family homes. There will be equestrian horse trails and a dog park.

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

Only speak if you are sure that what you are saying is of more value than your silence.

Unknown

Program April 2, 2013: Joel Conn-"How to Keep Your Pets Healthy"

By Dick Dannells

At 12:45 PM Pres. Gary Bayus returned and began the meeting by auctioning off the fine-free button.

FINES:

Steve Curry bid of $35 gained him this button. Paul Toms usual $2.44 fine was waived because of his excellent joke-telling ability. Cliff and Sabrina Nagler were married seven years ago and resulted in the reduced fine of $15 from $30 because of Cliff's fair joke-telling ability. Paul Toms was called upon to give one of his excellent jokes to take $15 off the $75 Tommy Thompson's club anniversary fine. Steve Curry complained that he had been fined twice for his anniversary.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Pres. Elect Linda Osty reminded us of the Saturday, April 13 District Assembly in Oxnard. Mark Olson reported that our annual soccer tournament will be held on Saturday, May 11. Michael Boyer stated that we need golfers for the May 6 annual Rotary foundation golf tournament at San Luis Obispo Country Club. Bruce Beaudoin reported that the Grover Beach Rotary Club is down to 13 members and that we should send any potential membership candidates interested in a breakfast club to that club. Speaking of of members, Ashlea Boyer said April is membership month and we should be on the outlook for prospective candidates interested in a Rotary club that meets for lunch. Joel Conn announced that he received a number of last-minute Four Way Assays and the judging would commence next week.

PROGRAM: Joel Conn-"How to Keep Your Pets Healthy"

Joel Conn filled-in for the scheduled program speaker by stating a few of the toxic foods that are bad for your pets include sugar-free candies, grapes, raisins and nuts. Indiscriminate use of rat and squirrel bait in the yard can be lethal to your pet. Lilies, oleander, azaleas, chrysanthemums, and mushrooms are some of the many plants that are also very bad for your pet. You should use a year-round flea control for your pets in this area because the temperatures in this area never get cold enough to really kill them as would be the case in less moderate climates. It has been found that Frontline and Advantage flea control are not as effective as other brands of flea control, e.g., Vector. Antihistamines can be used for your dog, but avoid doggie aspirin.  It is wise to use proper dental care of your dogs and cats. If you choose to do it yourself there is a chicken flavored toothpaste for your dog.

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

"I can win an argument on any topic, against any opponent. People know this, and steer clear of me at parties. Often, as a sign of their great respect, they don't even invite me."

Dave Barry

"Try not to become a man of success but rather to become a man of value."

Albert Einstein.

Program March 26, 2013: Steve Kliewer-"Endeavor Institute"

By Dick Dannells

At 12:38 PM Pres. Elect, Elect Michael Boyer conducted the meeting in the absence of Pres. Gary Bayus.

FINES:

Mike Frederick's new grandson and his wife Jeannie's March 14 birthday resulted in a $70 fine (seven dollars for each pound of the grandson’s weight at birth). Our club will celebrate its 30th anniversary next March. Pres. Elect. Elect Michael fined all of the charter members, Arnie Dowdy, John Murphy, Steve Curry and Katcho Achadjian, $29 for the 29 years since the founding of our club.  Charla Anderson was fined $30 for the published photo of her family. Jack Hardy was fined $20 for each of the three new offices that Century 21 has opened up in the County. Trish Hardy is in a new office at 1054 E. Grand Ave., which cost her a $30 fine. Sean Schuur's $30 fine was incurred because of his role as a 10-foot Easter Bunny.  Keith Slocum was fined $50 because of his not incurring any fine for the entire year.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Connie O Henley thanked our club's participation in AGHS Interact Club’s Bowl-A-Thon, which was won by Martha Murphy.  Joel Conn requested volunteers to judge the Rotary Four Way Test essays. Pres. Elect Linda Osty announced the Saturday, April 6 District Conference in Oxnard. Mark Olson reported that our annual soccer tournament will be held on Saturday, May 11.

PROGRAM: Steve Kliewer-"Endeavor Institute"

Cliff Nagler introduced Steve, the Endeavour Institute Director and lead developer of labs and curriculum. The Endeavour Institute is a non-profit organization dedicated to implementing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education methodology in high schools. It uses project-based, learn-by-doing simulations and real problem-solving opportunities for the students.  They not only learn, but they have fun, e.g., when they to go to an amusement park various instruments are placed their bodies to determine the G-forces and the like that are imposed on their body during the park rides. On Saturday, April 20, they're going to fly 8-foot balloons containing instruments in competition to see which balloon is returned with the most data. Endeavor Institute works with the Nipomo New Tech High School as they have very similar approaches to learning.

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

"Content makes poor men rich; discontentment makes rich men poor."

Benjamin Franklin

Program March 19, 2013: David Jackson-"Zoo-To-You"

By Dick Dannells

At 12:47 PM Pres. Elect Linda Osty took over for absent Pres. Gary Bayus to conduct the meeting.

FINES:

Sean Schuur was named Nipomo citizen of the year, which resulted in a $40 assessment. Pres. Elect Linda's, Paul Filice and Doug McMillan's advertising cost Linda $50, Paul $40 and Doug $20. Linda and Bill Dugan's 22 years of marriage and Linda and Steve Curry's 30 years of marriage resulted in $40 fines. Amber Rogers' March 8 birthday cost her $40 and Brendan Reitsma's club anniversary cost him $30. John Murphy fined Pres. Elect Linda $40 for failing to have our guests introduced. And she turned around and fined $20 to each of the following members to have them catch up on their fines for the year: Katcho Achadjian, Bruce Beaudoin, Sharon Ellis, Kathy Fissori, Paul Jones, Sandy Lubin, Andy Park, Vicki Pennisi, Keith Slocum, Tommy Thompson, Don Weber, and Paul Toms.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Steve Curry reminded everyone of the Pismo Beach Rotary Foundation Annual Golf Tournament on Monday, May 6, 2013 and stated that 11 members agreed to be sponsors.  Joel Conn requested volunteers for judging the Four Way test essays on March 29 and to get the word out to any Five Cities’ elementary, middle school and high school student that may be interested in entering the contest.

PROGRAM: David Jackson-"Zoo-To-You"

David spends a good deal of time taking various wild animals from his zoo on the road to do educational presentations for schoolchildren in the area. He was surprised when during a visit to the zoo, a parent came up to him and introduced her son and said, "I wanted my son to meet you like I did when I was his age." David had not realized he had been engaged with the zoo for such a long period of time. They have now opened the zoo for tours five days a week. At the present time, the zoo has about 300 specimens of wild animals. David then showed a few animals including a Gila monster that spends only 5% of its time above ground and is usually found in Arizona and New Mexico. You can have females in a zoo, but not males because they die if they move more than 10 feet from their home. Slow Loris, which is found in and very rare outside of Southeast Asia, was the next animal that was presented.

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

"I hated every minute of training, but I said, 'Don't quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.’ " Muhammad Ali

"How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and strong. Because someday in your life you will have been all of these." George Washington Carver

Program March 12, 2013: Johnee Gange-"Wonderful World Adventures "

By Dick Dannells

At 12:43 PM Pres. Gary Bayus reported that he would be absent for the next two weeks with Pres. Elect Linda Osty and Pres. Elect-Elect Michael Boyer, respectfully filling his shoes.

FINES:

Sean Schuur's interruption cost him $20. Tommy Thompson's fine of $10 was levied on Joel Conn because of Tommy's mention of animals. Cheryl Vines' husband's birthday on February 22 and her birthday on July 3 were recognized with a joke-reduced fine of $15. $50 fines were levied on Connie O Henley, Don Weber and John Murphy for her March 28 birthday, his 17 years with this club, and his birthday, respectively. Terry Fibich was fined $27 for being Terry.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

The president of the Arroyo Grande High School Interact Club reported the international projects that they are sponsoring this year to help wipe out AIDS in Zambia and to provide sustainable water to that same country. She passed a sign-up sheet and raised $620 from our members. The monthly board meeting will be held at Cliff Nagler's house this coming Thursday.

PROGRAM: Johnee Gange-"Wonderful World Adventures "

Cliff Nagler introduced Johnnee, who is the director of Wonderful World Adventures, an for-profit organization  working with Central Coast tuition-paying residents aged 14 to the 60s that have developmental disabilities and head injuries. Many of the participants are victims of autism, which has had a sharp increase in recent years so that 1 out of 120 is a victim of this condition. Johnny introduces them to numerous adventures outside of a classroom environment. One of the adventures is to write, direct and make movies that include these residents in all aspects of the filmmaking experience. They have been fortunate enough to have Hollywood screen actors, e.g.,  Timothy Bottoms and Ted Levine, take over various leading parts in their movies that are shown at the Palm Theater in San Luis Obispo.

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

“There are two ways to conquer and enslave a country. One is by the sword. The other is by debt.”

John Adams

Program February 26, 2013: Adam Stowe -SLO Blues Baseball Team

By Dick Dannells

Pres. Gary Bayus started the meeting at 12:44 PM with the usual toast and introduction of guests.

FINES:

Brandon Reitsma's Feb. 20, 1971 birthday fine of $20 was waived due to his joke telling ability.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Jack Hardy reported that Mike Kee has had back surgery. John Murphy announced that Rotary International will have a peace booth at the SLO Farmer's Market on this coming Thursday.  Next Tuesday's regular Rotary meeting will be held at the Gather Wine Bar in Arroyo Grande. The annual Rotary Middle School Soccer Tournament will be held on Saturday, May 11, 2013. Paul Felice is seeking $100 tee sponsors for the Pismo Beach Rotary Foundation Annual Golf Tournament on Monday, May 6, 2013 and 11 members agreed to be sponsors.  Paul Tom’s favorite fairytale is "Lord of the Rings," so Pres. Gary pronounced that Paul's new name will be the wizard. Ashlea Boyer was presented with Rotary District Club Awards for her past presidential year. Arnie Dowdy, who is the current advisor to the District Gov., announced that during 2012 there have been only 600 worldwide polio cases. Last week Doug McMillan was the winner of the $261 raffle jack pot.

PROGRAM: Adam Stowe -SLO Blues Baseball Team

Cliff Nagler introduced Adam, who is from Los Osos and a graduate of Morro Bay High School and Cal Poly where he earned a BS degree in marketing. For the past four years, he has been the General Manager of the Blues team, which was founded shortly after WWII.  Presently the Blues are a non-professional team comprising mainly college players that wish to maintain their skills during the off-season. All of Adam’s staff are Cal Poly interns. The Blues play 34 home games and liven up three of those games with fireworks and even have had a wedding during game time. They pride themselves on community involvement by employing host families' homes for the baseball players to stay during the summer; having local business partners paying $100 up to $10,000 for team sponsorships; having a Blues Krewe Kids club; contributing hundred tickets to local charities; and being educational partners for elementary school children at the end of the school year. The Shinshiner Park, where the games are played, has been redesigned to make it more crowd friendly with a kids area, an adult drink venue and plenty of good food.

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

"All right everyone, line up alphabetically according to your height."

Casey Stengel

“It’s Not the Years in Your Life That Count. It’s the Life in Your Years."

Abraham Lincoln

Program February 19, 2013: Catherine Ryan Hyde - Author of 22 Published and Forthcoming Books Including "Pay It Forward" That Was Made Into a Movie In 2000

By Dick Dannells

Pres. Gary Bayus started the meeting early at 12:39 PM with the quote "Life is a fatal hereditary disease." 

FINES:

Pres. Gary auctioned off the fine-free pin that is good for the rest of the year to Doug McMillan for a low price of $40. Arnie Dowdy's South African safari would've cost him $25 depending on the joke he told, which was about an elderly couple. It seems grandma hit grandpa and said, "You're such a lousy lover." Then grandpa hit grandma, who asked "Why'd you do that?" Grandpa replied, "Because you know the difference." Consequently, Pres. Gary had Jack Hardy pay Arnie's $25 fine. Jack advertised that his 20th Century Real Estate Company was number one in production of all agents in the world, which cost him a joke-reduced $50. Frank Montesinos' birthday was recognized with a $25 assessment. Paul Toms’13th year club anniversary fine was reduced from $100 to $50 that was paid by Marshall Williams.  Keith Slocum's birthday fine of $25 was assessed on Paul Jones because Keith had the fine-free pin.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Terry Fibich reported that Paul Jones and Amber Rogers devoted part of their Saturday morning to highway cleanup. He also stated that last Sunday he carried on a face-to-face conversation with a fellow Rotarian driving a car in the adjoining lane while he was driving bumper-to-bumper along San Francisco’s 19th Ave. Arnie Dowdy won the 50-50 raffle prize of Grover Beach Rotary Club's major fundraiser. Sandy Lubin reported on the successful vocational tour of Central Coast New Tech High adjacent the Nipomo High School.

PROGRAM: Catherine Ryan Hyde - Author of 22 Published and Forthcoming Books Including Pay It Forward That Was Made Into a Movie In 2000

Cliff Nagler introduced Catherine, who began by describing how she got the idea of the plot for "Pay It Forward". In 1978 at the age of 22, she was driving her ancient Datsun in poor condition when it stalled and caught fire near Echo Park Lake, which at that time was located in a very poor section of Los Angeles. She was especially fearful for her life as two men came running toward her, one carrying a blanket with outstretched arms. The man yelled for her to pop the hood and he proceeded to smother the fire. This not only prevented a possible explosion but saved her car so that she could continue to drive it. In addition some other good Samaritan must've called for help because a fire engine showed up almost immediately. When she turned around to thank the 2 men who helped her, they were gone without a thank you.  From then on, she always tried to help strangers in need. Fast forward 22 or so years when the screenplay was written based on her book and the movie came out, she believes the book was better than the movie.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES: What is the difference between a pastor and a church member? A pastor is paid to be good and a church member is good for nothing.

Program January 15, 2013: Tony Piazza- Author and Former Movie Stand-In, Bit Player and Extra

By Dick Dannells

Pres. Gary Bayus started the meeting at 1244 PM with the usual toast.

FINES:

Bill Dugan’s December 31st  birthday and trip to Europe cost him $65 in the absence of a joke.  Paul Jones was fined $2.44 even after he gave a joke. Trish Hardy's fine of $20 was levied on Chuck Anders. Cliff Nagler was fined three dollars for his wife's birthday. Mary Ann Reiss's birthday was recognized without a fine as she has the fine-free button. Deborah Handley's marriage to Keith on January 29, 1995 was recognized with a $25 assessment that was reduced from $100 because she told a good joke.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Michael Boyer reported on RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) and the Rotary Foundation golf tournament meeting that was to take place after the meeting. Connie O'Henley reported on the STEP conference. Kathy Fissori stated that at the next Rotary meeting we will be given the opportunity to say a few words on charities we are sponsoring.

PROGRAM: Tony Piazza

Tony has been a bit player, extra and stand-in a number of movies for 10 years in the 1970s. His father was a San Francisco Police Officer, who was the contact officer between the movie companies and the city.   Consequently, he got to meet and work with such stars as Steve McQueen, Paul Newman, Clint Eastwood, and Karl Malden. He decided to leave that type of work and, after earning a biology degree in 1980, worked in scientific research.   He is presently writing his fourth novel.   He showed a short video on his years in the movie industry.

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

The wife of an elderly couple told her husband not to touch her one morning because she was dead. He asked her, "Honey how can you say you're dead?" She responded, “Because I woke up this morning and nothing hurts."

"How come it takes so little time for a child who is afraid of the dark to become a teenager who wants to stay out all night?" Unknown

Program January 15, 2013: Montisa Lopez Phelan " Arroyo Grande Community Hospital"

By Dick Dannells

Pres. Gary Bayus started the meeting at 1244 PM by reading Christmas cards from charitable institutions that had received one of our donations.

FINES:

Steve Curry was fined $20 for advertising his screen-printing business.  Paul Toms was fined $2.44 for not knowing the answer to whether an obscure religious denomination exists or not. The recent Hawaiian trip and 46 years of marriage of Cindi and Sandy Lubin resulted in an $85 fine. Sharon Ellis’ 15 years with our club resulted in a $55 fine after she had it reduced by telling a joke. John Murphy's interruption cost him $10.  Connie O Henley's 17 years (It can't really be that long ago can it.) with the club cost her $100

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Ashlea Boyer reported that Michael Boyer's stepmother died last Friday and he will be back to the next Rotary meeting.  Jeff Norton and Evelyn Morgan have decided to leave the club. It was reported that Julie Tizzano will become the president of the new Five Cities ECO-club and that she too will no longer be a member of this club.  Bruce Beaudoin reported on ECO-clubs that focus on environment projects. As a result they attract new, younger members.  They do not meet at mealtimes and, rather than a regular meeting listening to programs, they spend their time working on projects and thus gain visibility for Rotary in the community. Pres. Gary reported that the board voted to send $1000 to Polio Plus in response to a request by a  Rotarian's cyclist, who was crippled by polio. He will be stopping in Pismo Beach in his campaign to eradicate polio as he cycles down the coast of California. Steve Curry reminded everyone to save May 6 as the date of our Rotary Foundation annual golf tournament to be held at the San Luis Obispo Country Club.

PROGRAM: Montisa Lopez Phelan "Arroyo Grande Community Hospital"

Montisa is currently serving as the Executive Director, Foundation, Public Affairs & Mission Integration at Arroyo Grande Community Hospital. She was born in San Luis Obispo of six generations of Californians. She had an idyllic life as a child by growing up on an 8000 acre ranch in the San Simeon area. She began her career in interior design and went into philanthropy at a Ronald McDonald safe house when her own son had a medical condition. With a background in interior design, one of her first projects when she joined the Arroyo Grande Memorial Hospital was to redesign the lobbies to make them more patient-friendly. One of her first big projects was to head the $1.6 million capital fund raising drive to open the new Cancer Care and Diagnostic Center.

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

 The 10 Commandments tell us how to treat our parents and to refrain from killing anyone.

Program January 8, 2013: Jim Burke "Goodwill Industries"

By Dick Dannells

At 12:41 PM, Pres. Gary Bayus started the meeting by auctioning off the fine-free button to the winning bid of $65 by Harlan Silva.

FINES:

Don Weber's joke saved him from a fine. It was about the golfer that answered the ringing cell phone in the locker room. He proceeded to put it on speaker and said, "Yes dear" to the women's voice at the other end of the line who asked if it was all right if she brought this beautiful fur coat at Neiman Marcus and the new Mercedes-Benz. When the man hung up, he asked, "Did anybody lose a cell phone." Mike Kee's January 6th and Arnie Dowdy's December 31st birthdays were respectively recognized with $65 and $100 fines (Arnie's  fine included a recognition for his South African trip coming up the next couple days).

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

The monthly board meeting will be held at Martha Murphy's residence on January 10. Sean Schuur was voted Nipomo Citizen of the Year.  Steve Curry announced a short golf meeting will be held after the meeting and wants everyone to put Monday, May 6 as the date of the annual golf tournament. Michael Boyer will be gone for the next month or so to attend to his stepmother, who raised him and is in the ITC unit. Connie O' Henley announced that the AGHS Interact Club has 16 meetings remaining in their school year.

PROGRAM: Jim Burke " Goodwill Industries "

Jim gave us the following words of wisdom: "That which we do for ourselves dies with us, and that which you do for others lives on." 20 years ago, Jim was a cook at McClintock’s restaurant when our Rotary club met there and remembers our meetings very well. He then went on to become their Vice President & General Manager before entering nonprofit management after taking heed of the former quote. Currently he is the Vice President at Goodwill Industries of Santa Cruz, Monterey and San Luis Obispo Counties.  According to the official Goodwill webpage, Goodwill Industries was founded in Boston during the year 1902 by Rev. Edgar J. Helms, a Methodist minister. Helms went around the wealthier areas of Boston to collect used household goods and clothing. He then hired the disadvantaged to mend and repair the used goods, which he resold or gave to the people who repaired them. Goodwill's modest beginnings have resulted in an international organization that still maintains the philosophy of “a hand up, not a hand out.”  Jim then presented a 20 min. DVD entitled "212° the Extra Degree."

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

“For we constantly deal with practical problems, with moulders, contractors, derricks, stonemen, trucks, rubbish, plasterers and what-not-else, all the while trying to soar into the blue.” Augustus Saint-Gaudens

Program December 18, 2012: Dawn O'Bar "Unite To Light"

By Dick Dannells

At 12:35 PM, Pres. Gary Bayus started the last meeting of the calendar year a little earlier than usual to induct Montisa Phelan Lopez, AGCH Foundation Executive Director, who was sponsored by Terry Fibich, as our newest member.

FINES:

Speaking of Terry, his 16 years as a member of our club was recognized with a $20 fee.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Steve Curry announced that a green light has been given for the borehole project to bring water to the Najjembe Mankomo Rotary District in Uganda.  In the promotion of the Symposium to Eliminate Poverty Sustainably (STEPS) on January 28, 2012 from 8 AM to 4 PM at UC Santa Barbara, we watched a 15 min. video on poverty.

PROGRAM: Dawn O'Bar "Unite To Light"

Dawn explained that Unite to Light is non-profit corporation that provides low cost and efficient  solar lights to the disadvantaged in the world that are without electricity so that, for example, children can study in the evening. Ghana was the first country that received these lights in November of 2010. Since then, 28,000 lights have been distributed to children in 55 countries. Rotary was a sponsor of sending 2000 of these lights to Bangladesh, 1700 to India and 150 to Costa Rica. Unite to Light is now working on a project to provide a low-cost device to recharge cell phones, which are now in the hands of thousands who had never held a telephone in the life.

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

There are four stages any man's life: (1) He believes in Santa Claus. (2) He doesn't believe in Santa Claus. (3) He is Santa Claus. (4) His body looks like Santa Claus.

Program November 27, 2012.  Cheryl Jackman: “San Luis Obispo Marine Mammal Center”

By Dick Dannells

Pres. Gary Bayus began the meeting at 12:40 PM with the usual toast.

FINES:

Terry Fibich was fined $10 for chit chat and $25 for advertising plus an additional $25 for his December 18 birthday.  Paul Filice’s wife's November 29 birthday resulted in a $25 fine for Abby Silverstone. Paul Toms decided to pay the $2.44 fine rather to be the chairman of the Zombie run. Vickie Pennisi’s 14^th November birthday fine of $75 was only reduced to $65 due to a not so funny joke.  $5 was Kathy Fissori’s  phone interruption fine. Paul Jones purchased a bag full of Rotary pins for a bargain price of only $76.50.

announcements:

Mary Miller announced “Babes in Toyland” will be presented in 2 performances - 1 PM and 5PM at the Clark Center to benefit the youth ballet.  The annual Christmas Party will be held on Dec. 9^th from 1 PM until 4 PM at the Ramona Garden Center.  Past President Ashlea Boyer announced that her husband Michael Boyer has been nominated as President elect-elect.   January 26^th has been set for the next “Eliminate Poverty Sustainability” program. Trish Hardy requested all members to please bring in silent auction items for the Jan 31^st  Chamber of Commerce fund raiser.  Pres. Gary gave the bad news that John Wakeman has resigned from the club because of business complications, but  John hopes to rejoin in the future.  Pres. Gary then gave the good news that the Ventana Grill has renewed our contract at no increase in price.

PROGRAM: Cheryl Jackman: Cheryl Jackman: “San Luis Obispo Marine Mammal Center (SLOMMC)”

Cheryl stated that the SLOMMC was established in 1975 to take care of all Marine Mammals that have been injured or have died.  She then reviewed the list of marine mammals under their protection: Cal Seal Lions with their unique ear flaps; Elephant Seals that after 5 years the males develop sagitail crests indicating that they are ready to mate; Pacific Harbor Seals, having hind flippers for locomotion, that were hunted to near extinction; Northern Fur Seal females that go out to sea to feed and leave their pups alone; Guadalupe Fur Seals that are normally located far out to sea and when they come near the coast it is a harbinger that an el Niño winter is in the offing; Steller Sea Lions that are usually only found  in the waters off Baja Calif; Cetaceans that include Whales, Dolphins and Purposes, which all have blubber; Southern Sea Otters that have no blubber, but have very thick fur, i.e., one million hairs per square inch; and Sea Turtles, which, of course, are not mammals, but are under the protection of the SLOMMC.      

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY Paul Jones:

“Don’t marry for money you can borrow it cheaper”

Program November 13, 2012: Dave Congalton "920 KVEC Radio Talk Show Host"

By Dick Dannells

At 12:40 PM, Pres. Gary Bayus began the meeting with the usual toast.

FINES:

Jeff Norton was fined seven dollars for failing to provide the correct information about the guest of his table. Paul Toms was charged with his usual $2.44 fine and Jack Hardy was fined five dollars for providing the answer to Paul. In a double or nothing risk John Murphy wound up paying $200 for his travels to the East Coast with Martha and for Martha's birthday on November 15 (1900 according to the Club Runner Directory).   Amber Rogers was assessed $30 as she had no Rotary pin and Pres. Gary failed to think her joke was funny.  However, Jonathan Rubatzky wound up paying her fines and an additional $30 for stating the following: "I was voted the most congenial person in high school. If you don't believe me I will show you my congenitals."

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

At 6 PM on 12/5/12, Kathy Fissori will host the annual Christmas wrapping party that in recent years has been held at Bill Dugan's home.  The Christmas party itself will be held on December 9 at the Grover Beach Community Center having an address at 1230 Trouville Ave.

PROGRAM: Dave Congalton "920 KVEC Radio Talk Show Host"

In 1987 Dave was a professor in Tulsa Oklahoma and realized he did not want to go through the rest of his life in such a profession. Consequently, he tried to write a screenplay, which bombed in Hollywood.  Nevertheless, he moved west to follow his dreams. He again wrote a screenplay in 2005, which is in the final stages of being released to theaters such as the Palm theater in San Luis Obispo. The movie is called "Scribble," a comedy about a dysfunctional group of aspiring novelists whose belief in the motto "all for one" starts to crumble when the youngest member becomes an overnight success.  It stars Kaley Cuoco, Tricia Helfer and Meagen Fay. As the movie was filmed entirely in our area, it should be very interesting for all of us to see this one. As far as Dave Congalton Show is concerned it is considered the number one talk show on the Central Coast since it debuted in January 1992.

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

"The biggest room in the world is room for improvement."

Program November 6, 2012: Evelyn Morgan- Craft Talk "College Funding Solutions For Students"

By Dick Dannells

Pres. Gary Bayus rang the opening bell at 12:41 PM and quoted from Abe Lincoln “Am I not destroying my enemies when I make friends of them?"

FINES:

The fine-free badge was auctioned off to Doug McMillan for a near record $70; consequently his birthday was recognized without a fine.  Arnie Dowdy's fine of $15 was the result of a less than perfect guest introduction, because nobody's perfect not even a former District Gov.. Terry Fibich received a $40 fine for insulting District Gov. Frank Ortiz. Terry suggested that DG Frank would use pre-printed thank you cards when, in fact, Frank gave praise to our beautiful view from Ventana Grill and the wonderful ranch setting of the evening DG barbecue. Sharon Ellis and Amber Rogers were fined $15 each for beating Pres. Gary at bowling last Friday.  Joel Conn was fined a total of $40 for the four Rotarians that recently brought their pets in for his treatment. Cheryl Vines was not fined for her trip because she returned with a Toledo Rotary banner. Julie Tizzano was recognized $25 even though she turned in a New Orleans Rotary banner from her trip. Paul Toms was fined $2.44 for failing to provide a correct answer to a question.  Ashlea Boyer's September 14 wedding anniversary with Michael and new car only cost her $25. Whereas, Kathy Fisher Fissori's and Mark Olson's respective birthdays on November 10 and November 3 and cost them $50 each. Tommy Thompson's October 28 birthday did not cost him anything because he had the fine-free badge from last month.. Michael Boyer was given a credit of four dollars because he's over his fine limit.  Linda Osty's European trip and 15 years with Rotary resulted in a $75 assessment. Amber Rogers' one year club anniversary cost her $50. Arnie Dowdy's less than stellar introduction of Judy Sullivan resulted in a $15 fine. What was interesting is that Arnie was there to honor Judy's late husband, Thomas with a post-humus Paul Harris fellow.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

With regrets, Bob Dumouchel's resignation letter was accepted.

PROGRAM: Evelyn Morgan- Craft Talk "College Funding Solutions For Students"

Evelyn has made it her personal mission to help families send their children to college. The key is to know which schools to approach. Many colleges have endowment money that is not being used because students are not applying to such schools for scholarships.

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

Paul spoke of the tremendous need in protecting the children of the world from abuse. Paul cannot understand why in the world adults would ever abuse children and certainly not in the manner which has been reported continuously in the press and on TV.

Program October 16, 2012: Aaron B Steed-"Meathead Movers"

By Dick Dannells

The opening bell was rung at 12:43 PM by Pres. Gary Bayus who announced that the treasurer's books maintained by Harlan Silva were audited by Mike Kee and Mike Frederick. The conclusion of the audit by the two Mikes was that Harlan is doing a commendable job.

FINES:

Paul Toms provided the following joke to save him from a fine of $2.44: A  couple of old folks were watching TV and the husband asked his wife for dish of ice cream. He said, "Honey make sure you write it down so you won't forget it. She assured him that she wouldn't forget. "But honey, I want to have strawberries on the ice cream." She assured him that there would be no problem. "I also wanted it topped off with whipped cream." Again no problem, she assured him. A little later she brought him ham and eggs and his response was "Where's my toast."

Chuck and Teah Anders celebrated their 16th wedding anniversary that resulted in a $25 fine.  Joel Conn’s third anniversary with the club was recognized with a $40 fine.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Steve Curry's hip surgery went very well and he will be attending the meeting next week. Charla Anderson had eye surgery and she is doing fine. The wife of Mike McKenzie, a former member of the club, is not doing well as her cancer has reoccurred. Joel Conn announced that on October 30 in celebration of Halloween, we will be having a vocational occasional visit to the Reese Family Mortuaries Museum.

PROGRAM: Aaron B Steed-"Meathead Movers"

Aaron and his brother Evan Steed founded Meathead Movers in 1997, when Aaron and Evan were still in high school. They both had trouble finding jobs that would accommodate their busy scholastic and sports activities. After helping their friend's parents move, they found a number of moving jobs became available by word of mouth. They usually charged $20.00 and pizza for a day’s move. The workouts involved in moving were enjoyable experiences for them and thus began Meathead Movers. They enlisted their jock friends to help and Meathead Movers got the reputation of hiring employees that were hard-working, polite, careful, and honest. Meathead is the nickname used for jocks working out in the HS weight room and was used as the name of moving establishment as a joke. Everything was going well until 2001 when the state of California stopped them cold in their tracks because they weren't qualified according to the standards of OSHA. After fulfilling the required safety requirements, they found that their business really took off so that today they employ 240 employees, both males and females, that operate within the state of California. They are currently becoming affiliated with other similar moving ventures that employ young athletes in other states

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

"At the age of 20, we don't care what the world thinks of us; at 30, we worry about what it is thinking of us; at 40, we discover that it wasn't thinking of us at all.

Program October 9, 2012: Molly Cano, Sales & Marketing Director-"San Luis Obispo County Film Commission"

By Dick Dannells

The opening bell was rung at 12:43 PM by Pres. Gary Bayus who began with his usual toast.

FINES:

Bob Dumouchel was fined five dollars for losing control of his table during introductions. Pres. Gary had to continually refer to his wrist watch, because of John Murphy's failure to replace the batteries in our wall clock and John was fined $25.  $10 fines were levied on Mark Olson, Jack Hardy and Amber Rogers for not wearing their Rotary pins. Amanda and Mark Olson celebrated their 10th wedding anniversary on October 12, which resulted in  a $40 fine. A $15 fee was added to his bill for failure to remove the iconic image of SpongeBob Square Pants from his Rotary photo and for not having a joke. Steve Curry was fined five dollars for a mistake on Mark Olson's plaque. Bruce Beaudoin's 15 years with the club resulted in a $40 fee, but it was reduced to $15 because he did provide a good joke. Cliff and Samantha Nagler's trip to Dover Plains, New York for his son's wedding resulted in a $25 assessment.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

The following members were the most helpful during the Group Study Exchange barbecue last Wednesday: Sean Schuur, Deborah Handley, Amber Rogers and Evelyn Morgan. Arnie Dowdy reported that Rotary International is discontinuing the Group Study Exchange program. Next year RI will incorporate a new program to take its place.

PROGRAM: Molly Cano, Sales & Marketing Director-"San Luis Obispo County Film Commission".

Molly began by reviewing why California and especially Los Angeles County is still the center of the film industry. It has lots of acting talent, a large number of art production facilities, over 500 stages, and hundreds of post-production facilities. As a result this fact, the film industry represents $3.8 billion revenue per year for California. It is the third highest employer in LA County and supports about 250,000 direct jobs.  The industries most affected by the film commission include petroleum products, lumber, hotels, hardware stores, restaurants and dry cleaning establishments. It brings millions of tourist to California. Because of its unique and diverse location, beaches, mountains, and agricultural landscapes, drivable piers and scenic roads, San Luis Obispo County has been the venue for many movies over the years that have included The 10 Commandments in 1923, Spartacus and My Blue Heaven in 1960, We Were Soldiers Once and Murder By Number in 2002. Pirates of the Caribbean in 2006 and I Know Who Killed Me in 2007. Many TV programs including House, Bachelor and Man Versus Food as well as numerous commercials have been filmed here as a result of the Film Commission's activities.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

Program October 2, 2012: Rocky Jacobson-"How to Obtain a First Interview with Famous Motivational Speaker Anthony "Tony" Robbins"

By Dick Dannells

Pres. Gary Bayus began the meeting at 12:43 PM by auctioning off the fine-free badge to Tommy Thompson for $70.

FINES:

$10 and $20 fines were levied on Mike Kee and Frank Montesinos for their less than ideal guest introductions. Paula and Brendan Reitsma celebrated their ninth wedding anniversary on October 4.  JT and Charla Anderson celebrated their 22 years of marriage on October 6. They each assessed $40 recognition fees. Marina Matthews' 16th year club anniversary fine was reduced to $10 because she reported that Joel Conn's baby is doing fine.  Past Pres. Ashlea Boyer requested to take the podium and proceeded to fine John Murphy and Brendan Reitsma $30 each for feeding her dog linguine at last week's District Governor’s barbecue last week, which rich food caused her poor dog to become very ill.  Paul Toms avoided a $2.41 fine by answering the question, "What is the meaning of life?" Answer: "Faith love service."

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Rotary Clubs of Pismo Beach-Five Cities, Arroyo Grande, and Grover Beach will honor the members of the Group Study Exchange team from Sri Lanka, who are with us today, by holding a tri tip barbecue dinner on Wednesday, October 3, 2012.

PROGRAM: Rocky Jacobson-"How to Obtain a First Interview with Famous Motivational Speaker Anthony "Tony" Robbins".

Years ago, Rocky and her future husband were given an almost impossible task to gain an initial interview to go to work for Tony Robbins. The task was to obtain two tickets for the LA Kings hockey team playoff when neither Rocky nor her fiancé had any money at all. In fact, the whole purpose of the interview was to get a job so they could make some money. The only thing they could think of was to try to be the first or near the first in line before the box office opened. So they got to the box office, positioned themselves second line and waited overnight.  They literally were praying that a miracle would happen.  When the box office was about to open and they thought they would have to go home empty-handed, an avid hockey fan thrust money in their hands to buy him two tickets. The man explained, "There is a two ticket minimum, so you can use the extra money to buy two tickets for yourselves." When they got to the box office window, the agent sold them 4 tickets and then put a closed sign on the window much to the anguish of the long line of fans waiting for hours to obtain tickets. Because of their resourcefulness, they were both hired and have been dedicated employees ever since. In fact, Rocky appears at Tony's fire walking seminars as one of his fire walker demonstrators.

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

"10 yrs. ago we had Steve Jobs, Bob Hope and Johnny Cash. Now, we have no jobs, no hope and no cash."

"Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power."
Abraham Lincoln

"Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved."

Program September 25, 2012: District 5240 Gov. Frank Ortiz

By Dick Dannells

During the luncheon, Pres. Gary Bayus asked Cheryl Vines to come forward to give a craft talk on the subject of interior design before beginning of the meeting at 12:43 PM with his toast to the District Governor.

FINES:

In honor of the District Governor's visit, Pres. Gary held off levying any fines until next week.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Next Wednesday, October 3, at the Pismo Beach Veterans Hall a barbecue will be held in honor of the Group Study Exchange team from Sri Lanka that is led by team leader G. S. Sylvester.   The annual District 5240 conference will be held in Long Beach from Friday, Sep 29 through Sunday, Sep 30. On Thursday, Sep 27, from 11:30 AM to 2 PM the Empty Bowls Community Luncheon will be held at St. Patrick's Catholic Church to help build a homeless shelter. Jack Hardy and his band will open for the Isaacs in Concert on Thursday, Sep 27 at 7 PM, New Life Community Church in Pismo Beach. Linda Osty took the podium after completing her basic PRLS class to explain how each of us can attend PRLS classes at convenient locations such as Santa Maria. Ashlea Boyer had the privilege of introducing Evelyn Morgan as the first member of our club to be inducted by District Gov. Frank Ortiz. Evelyn's sponsor is Bruce Beaudoin.

PROGRAM: District 5240 Gov. Frank Ortiz

Past Pres. Martha Murphy had the privilege of introducing DG Frank who began by reviewing his journey from joining Rotary in 1998 to the office of District Gov. in 2012 that has included such positions as Group Representative, Assistant District Gov., and Community Service Director in 2008 2009. Frank is the former chief of the Fire Department of Santa Maria. Frank was accompanied by his wife's Scottie of 22 years. She took the podium to state that she is an advocate for children through her work with COSA.  DG Frank explained that if you call his office and find him not in, he is probably attending a San Francisco Giants game that has been his passion since his father took him to the first baseball game in 1964. He then ran down the list of activities and projects that our club has been and will be engaged in this year. He recalled that years ago he and his wife sponsored a Rotary Youth Exchange student. After her year was over, he promised that when she got married he and his wife would attend their wedding. Sure enough this past year, 12 years after that promise they flew to Argentina and had a marvelous time at her wedding. He presented Jack Hardy with a visionary pin for 2012 2013 for being the sponsor of President-Elect Linda Osty. He recognized Terry Fibich as a former president of our club and fire department colleague.  He closed by congratulating our club as being one of the outstanding clubs in the district and even in the world.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

Program September 11, 2012: Arroyo Grande High School Culinary Arts Academy -"Smores Cupcakes"

By Dick Dannells

Pres. Gary Bayus began the meeting at 12:43 PM with his usual raise your glass toast. 

FINES:

Chitchat $5.00 fines were levied on Terry Fibich and Mark Olson.   Paul Jones tried to help Paul Toms in answering a theological question regarding the origin of the name "brimstone corner" for the Parker Church in Boston, but he failed so that they were fined $2.44 each.  As expected because Ashlea Boyer was only fined one dollar for her 10th wedding anniversary, Michael was fined a total of $39.  Marshall Williams and his wife Elaine celebrated their wedding anniversary with a recognition fee of $75 that also included Marshall's first year with our club. Terry Fibich and Abbey Silverstone were fined $25 each, which was reduced by $10 because of the following joke told by Terry: It was Christmas time in the South, and a retired fire department equipment salesman had charge of the annual nativity scene crèche. So he decked out the three wise men with some old used firemen’s jackets. When asked by the city fathers, "Why the jackets?"  He replied, "The Bible says the wise men were comin from afaar."

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

On Sep 25, 2012, our speaker will be District Governor Frank Ortiz.  The annual district 5240 conference will be held in Long Beach from Friday, September 29 through Sunday, September 30.  Steve Adams announced that on Thursday, September 27, from 11:30 AM to 2 PM the Empty Bowls Community Luncheon will be held, with most of the price of the tickets that he had for sale to go to help the homeless. He also asked for volunteers for the pie eating contest at the annual Arroyo Grande fall Festival. 

Secret greeter Dick Dannells chose Trish Hardy, who pulled Greg Baker's winning number, and he then drew the black marble for the $169 jackpot.

PROGRAM: Arroyo Grande High School Culinary Arts Academy -"Smores Cupcakes"

The Culinary Arts Academy, founded in 2008, includes beginning, advanced and catering classes. Students from the catering class baked dozens of Smores cupcakes that were distributed to everyone in attendance.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

“I was always taught to respect my elders and I've now reached the age when I don't have anybody to respect”

Program September 11, 2012: Peter Pepper-"Killing Memories, a Documentary about Returning to Vietnam with His War Buddies"

By Dick Dannells

Pres. Gary Bayus began the meeting at 12:42 PM by having Mark Olson report on their newest child, Kamilee Olson.  He then passed a hat around that received over $199 to be matched by Mark and to be placed into Kamilee's savings account. 

FINES:

Mike Frederick's 34th anniversary with Jeannie was recognized at $1/ yr. of marriage.  Paul Toms was not fined because he knew the name of the oldest church in Hawaii, one that he was a minister of a number of years ago. Julie Tizzano celebrated 14 years of marriage with Steve on September 12 and was fined $30 for failing to answer the question that would have given her a 50% discount. Ashlea Boyer's $1fine for 10 years of marriage with Michael, who was absent from the meeting, was in anticipation of more a more appropriate recognition next week. Paul Filice $100 fine for his second anniversary with the club was reduced to $75 because he knew half of the answer to the question concerning who was Minor's Hardware's first employee. Abbey Silverstone's $30 fine was in recognition of his five years with our club.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

The Rotary District 5240 Conference will be held on September 28 - 30, 2012 in Long Beach, California; see Pres. Gary for details. The monthly Rotary board meeting will be held in the Century 21 offices at 1350 E. Arroyo Grande this coming Thursday, September 13.  Please reserve the evening of September 25 for the District Gov.'s visit starting 5:30 PM, at the Curry Ranch in Arroyo Grande.

PROGRAM: Peter Pepper-"Killing Memories a Documentary about Returning to Vietnam with His War Buddies"

Peter showed a short film clip of "Killing Memories," which had its world premiere as part of the Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo International Film Festivals last winter and is a documentary about a trip he took with his soldiers, who killed some memories from their experiences on the battlefields of war, with the children of slain combatants, and with the enemies themselves.  To see this short film clip simply click on the following website address: http://vimeo.com/19020234. The entire documentary is 87 min. long that was condensed from 45 hours of footage they took during their Vietnam trip in 2009.  Peter is a broadcast journalist and a film maker.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

You are only young once, but you can be immature for the rest of your life.

Program August 19, 2012: Paul Holocher -"Cal Poly's Men’s Soccer Team Coach"
By Dick Dannells

At 12:42 PM Pres. Gary Bayus began the meeting with the usual introductions and then called upon Doug McMillan to introduce our speaker-Paul Holocher, who presented the program before the rest of the meeting because Paul had to leave.

FINES:

Bruce Beaudoin was fined $20 for failing to introduce Jack Boyer, who is entering public school for the first time. Dick Dannells 21 years with this Rotary club was recognized with a $30 fine and another seven dollars for a phone infraction. Paul Toms was off the hook for not answering Pres. Gary's questions concerning BMW cars' nickname (Beemer/Beamer = motorcycle, Bimmer = car) when Jeff Norton came up with this joke, which is definitely the type that a Chief Of Police would give: An elderly man in Florida bought a brand-new Corvette and was testing it out by blazing a trail going North on IS 95 at speeds of 80 and 90 mph, when a cop gave pursuit with lights flashing. He increased his speed from 90 up to 110 mph and finally pulled over. The cops said, "Tell me a story why I shouldn't give you a ticket?" Elder "A couple years ago, I divorced my wife who ran off with a Florida highway patrolman, and I thought you were bringing her back to me."

John Wakeman's August 16 birthday was recognized in an amount of $35 in absentia. Terry Fibich was fined $25 for insulting Ashlea Boyer, by saying she didn't look a day over 40. Robert Dumouchel's wife Robin has a birthday on August 27, which would have cost $40 if he had not answered this double or nothing question, "Which of Steve Curry knees was replaced?" (left one). Chuck Anders knew that Cliff Nagler's wife's name is Samantha, but received a $30 fine for his one year club anniversary anyway. He was able to do a little business advertising on his strategic planning business because of his correct answer. Sandy Lubin's new sweet riding Mercedes cost him $25

PROGRAM: Paul Holocher -"Cal Poly's Men’s Soccer Team Coach"

Paul Holocher, born May 24, 1969 in Seattle, Washington, was enthralled by basketball and other sports, that his passion was soccer. He played soccer in the US, Austria and Major League Soccer. He began coaching the men’s soccer team at Cal Poly seven years ago. Last year he went to Barcelona Spain that he believes has the best soccer organization in the world. They believe in beginning soccer players almost by the time they can walk and have teams of 10-year-olds, 11-year-olds, 12-year-old, etc. They depend on this homegrown talent for their team members. He is now using many of the techniques that he learned in Spain.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

““You miss 100% of the shots you don't take.” Wayne Gretzky

"Flatter me, and I may not believe you. Criticize me, and I may not like you. Ignore me, and I may not forgive you. Encourage me, and I will not forget you. Love me and I may be forced to love you." William Arthur Ward

Program August 12, 2012: Connie O Henley-" The Clark Center For The Performing ArtsBy Dick Dannells

At 12:40 PM Pres. Gary Bayus began the meeting and had Tommy Thompson come forward to receive his perfect attendance award.   Pres. Gary also welcomed Steve Curry back from his recent knee surgery. 

FINES:

Bob Dumouchel birthday of July 7 was honored with a $20 fine.  Sgt. of Arms John Murphy called upon Pres. Gary to be recognized with a $50 assessment in honor of his grandchild named Isabel, who supposedly was 28 inches long at birth, which, if true, would probably make the grandchild the longest baby on record. Paul Toms again had to pay a $2.40 fine, in this case, for not knowing the name of the first ghost in Ghost Busters, the movie. Sharon Ellis celebrated her August 16 birthday by paying a $30 remuneration to the club.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Michael Boyer announced that the San Luis Obispo Rotaract Club, which organization we are one of its sponsors, is having a party from 6 to 8 PM on Wednesday, August 22.  Pismo Beach Mayor Shelly Higginbotham accepted a Rotary charitable fund check on behalf of the Five City's Homeless Coalition and introduced its director Jeannie Nichols. Jeannie reported on the Empty Bowls Community Luncheon fund-raising event on September 27. Linda Osty reported that everything is sizzling along for the big day this coming Saturday, August 18-the Summer Sizzle fundraiser.

PROGRAM: Connie O Henley-" The Clark Center For The Performing Arts"

Connie, the director for the Clark Center Preforming Center, was introduced by Don Weber. In 1975, Clifford and Mary-Lee Clark dreamed of a performing arts center so that students could perform at the Arroyo Grande High School as well as providing a venue for cultural events that the entire community could enjoy.  That dream became a reality 10 years ago, which anniversary was celebrated in grand style last month.  Last year 45,000 tickets were sold to patrons that attended 321 events. More than one event took place on many of the days of the year. In addition to the main auditorium, there is a black box theater that is used to hold more intimate shows. To succeed, the center utilizes 169 volunteers who participate in 11,024 hours of time throughout the year. The sponsors of the Clark Center have been and continue to be a very important factor in its success. Steve Cool, current director and President of the Clark Center Endowment Foundation, explained that presently there is a goal of raising $10 million for the Foundation to go to the permanent endowment fund. The maintenance of the entire Clark Center building is the Foundations responsibility. We then were entertained with a video of the coming 2012 2013 season of performances.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

“Your secrets are always safe with your friends, because they can't remember them either.” Anonymous

Program August 7, 2012: Membership Month-"Why Join Rotary?"
By Dick Dannells

Pres. Gary Bayus began the meeting at 12:40 PM by auctioning off the fine-free pin to the winning bidder, Paul Jones, at $65.

FINES:

Pres. Gary called upon Mark Olson to introduce all of the guests in attendance because he failed to show up in time to serve as our secret greeter.  Mark, of course did not know the seven guests names. He was given the opportunity, but failed to name SpongeBob SquarePants' pet snail-Gary. Consequently, the original fine of five dollars per guest was doubled.  Paul Toms’ anniversary with Eva and birthday on the same date resulted in a fine of $4.98, which is perhaps the lowest fine ever recorded. Michael Boyer's July 24^th birthday and Alaskan trip resulted in an $80 fine. Ashlea Boyer's Aug. 23^rd birthday cost her $70. Sandy Lubin was fined $25 for just being present.  Paul Jones 63rd wedding anniversary with Joy did not cost him anything in lieu of his fine-free pin, but Pres. Gary paid a token fine of a dollar in honor of the occasion. Pres. Gary asked Paul what he did on his first date with Joy (they went to church). Although Paul of course answered correctly, Pres. Gary fined himself $10

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Julie Tizzano reported on a cook-off fundraiser by the Paso Robles's Rotary club this coming Saturday, August 11, 2012, from 6 to 9 p.m.  Martha Murphy announced that the Rotary Group Study Exchange from Sri Lanka will be held this fall and she asked for volunteers to provide overnight accommodations for a few of the visitors. Ashlea Boyer announced that anyone having a Summer Sizzle item of $250 or more to contact her to be included in the live auction. There will be a board meeting this coming Thursday at the Murphy's home beginning at 6 PM.

PROGRAM: Membership Month-"Why Join Rotary?"

Michael Boyer, Bruce Beaudoin, and Ashlea Boyer presented a program on attracting and retaining new members. The sad fact is that 50% of the Rotary members around the world leave their respective clubs within three years. There has been a seven-year decline in Rotary membership. Every member has a role in retention of members by: (1) hosting a meeting (not in our club); (2) mentoring a new member; (3) following up with a special guest; (4) being a welcoming greeter; and (5) keeping records.

Linda Osty presided over a presentation of a Paul Harris Fellow award to Kaylie Adams, which is Steve Adams’ fourth Paul Harris. This

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

“The way a team plays as a whole determines its success. You may have the greatest bunch of individual stars in the world, but if they don't play together, the club won't be worth a dime.” Babe Ruth

Program July 31, 2012: Shannon McOuat, Marketing and Outreach Coordinator-SLOtheStigma

By Dick Dannells

Pres. Gary Bayus began at 12:48 PM by thanking those members that sent e-mails to last week's speaker-Claudia Makeyev of Mermaid Island Corporation.

FINES:

Pres. Gary was fined $20 by Sgt. of Arms Terry Fibich for the article in the local paper, but was given a double or nothing chance to reduce it to zero. Through the help of John Murphy in coming up with the answer, the fine was equally divided between the two.  Bill Dogan was fined $25 for his family trip to Cape Cod. Trish Hardy has an August birthday and was about to be fined $20. However, she goaded Pres. Gary to increase it to $40, whereupon she produced a fine-free pin to begin his accumulation of fines. Greg Baker's August 3 birthday and not knowing his buddies name would've resulted in a $40 fine, but it was reduced to $15 when Greg read a number of "Okie" jokes.  Joel Conn has a birthday on the same date and was fined $30.  Jack Hardy, Chief Executive Officer at Century 21 Hometown Realty, received a $50 fine for the article in which he was commended for having the fastest growth of any Century 21 office.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Connie O'Henley was thanked for assisting at the Santa Maria live animal auction of FFA animals.  Amber Rogers stressed the need to bring in the silent auctions for the Summer Sizzle and Linda Osty similarly stressed we bring in the ticket stubs and cash that as soon as possible.

PROGRAM: Shannon McOuat, Marketing and Outreach Coordinator-SLOtheStigma

 Sharon began by presenting a short video on the stigma of people with depression and other mental health problems. Before Sharon took her present position, she worked in in the Pismo Beach Chamber of Commerce for a few years, and then she worked on the other end of the line for local nonprofit organizations. To quote the webpage of her present nonprofit organization: "SLOtheStigma is an awareness campaign designed to put the brakes on the stigma surrounding mental illness, raise public awareness about mental illness, and to guide those in need to the many mental health services in San Luis Obispo County. Visit www.SLOtheStigma.org for more information." It has a budget of between nine and 11 million with 200 employees that includes a large number of part-timers. They rely on very sporadic use of volunteers.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

Before his thought, Paul told the joke of the day: It seems a Saudi Arabian hailed a taxi in Dallas, Texas with the cabbie featuring no end of Western music. When his passenger could stand it no longer, he says please turn off the music, especially Western music. It's against my religion. Whereupon, the cabbie pulled over told passenger to get out and wait for the next camel.

 "Families are like fudge, mostly sweet with a few nuts."
Author: anonymous

Program July 17, 2012: Victor Montalban - The Life of Ricardo Montalban As Told By His Son
By Dick Dannells

Pres. Gary Bayus began his third meeting at 12:43 PM by introducing Vic has our guest speaker for today.

FINES:

Keith Slocum's first wedding anniversary was recognized with a $30 fine, for which Katcho Achadjian was the designated payer. Steve Curry had his $20 fine reduced to zero because he answered "Araxie" to Pres. Gary's question "What is the name of Katcho's wife." Similarly Jack Hardy's forty-year wedding anniversary with Sheila resulted in no fine as he was able to answer Pres.Gary's questions concerning Sheila's dress color and type of corsage she was wearing on their first date. Pres. Gary is the new business manager for Century 21; consequently, Abbey Silverstone, the acting Sgt. of arms, levied him with a $50 fine.  Doug McMillan received a $25 fine for not knowing that the name of Mike's wife is Duskie. Mary Ann Reese failed to give in 10 seconds the names of her seven grandchildren, which cost her a $25 recognition fee for 17 years of marriage on July 19 with Herbert. Dick Dannells was charged $25 for failing to provide dessert at a recent board meeting at his home. Kathy Fissori's cell phone interruption cost her $10

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Terry Fibich announced that a highway cleanup will take place this coming Saturday, July 21, with breakfast at Coco's starting at 7:30 AM. In a joke-off contest between Jack Hardy and Pres. Gary, Jack won with the story of an automobile accident involving a Rabbi and a priest. Neither of the parties were injured, but all of the Baptismal bottles of wine were broken except for one. The priest took the unbroken bottle and poured a couple glasses of wine and began to drink. He looked over to the Rabbi and said, "Why aren’t you drinking?" The Rabbi said, "I‘ll wait until the cops get here."

PROGRAM: Victor Montalban - The Life of Ricardo Montalban

Vic presently lives in Grover Beach and enjoys giving talks to a wide variety of audiences on the life of his famous father, Ricardo Montalban that ended on, January 15, 2009 at the age of 88.  Ricardo was best known for his role as Mr. Roarke on TV's "Fantasy Island," and for which a small amount of residuals are still coming in.  All told he made over 500 TV appearances and was in 50 to 60 movies.  Vic's favorite movie starring his dad was Mystery Street that came out in 1950.  Ricardo may be best known to the more recent public as Chrysler's TV spokesman in which he spoke in his rich Castilian accent of the fine Corinthian leather of the Cordoba car. Vic's involvement with his dad included a spot on a polio vaccination promotion when he was only five years old. Since he couldn't say his last name on que" when is father poked him in the ribs he said "Victor and his father ended with " Montalban."

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

“When you were born, you were crying and everyone around you was smiling. Live your life so that when you die, you're the one who is smiling and everyone around you is crying.”

Program July 10, 2012: Glenn Hoving, Motivational Speaker -The Three Steps to Success
By Dick Dannells

Pres. Gary Bayus began his second meeting at 12:45 PM by having a representative of the Five City Junior Olympic League pass the hat to raise money for a trip to the Junior Olympic competition in Los Angeles.  The group raised $338. He explained that he will emphasis during the year for all members to become more acquainted with each other including knowing the names of our spouses or significant others.

FINES:

Martha and John Murphy celebrated 22 years of marriage on July 14. Martha took a double or nothing chance and failed to answer the name of John's high school and school mascot, so they were fined $50 each.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

A board meeting is July 9^th at Dick `Dannells' house.  July 9^th was the date of the last Rotary Foundation meeting, which was held at Martha Murphy's home.  A request was made at least one volunteer to attend the Santa Barbara fair on Saturday, July 21^st for making bids on FFA members’ livestock during the auction with the use of a kitty of $10,000.  Linda Osty reminded everybody to bring two bottles of wine for the Summer Sizzle Fundraiser and to get your life auction items in.

PROGRAM: Glenn Hoving-The Three Steps to Success

The three words to success are attitude, gratitude and passion. Attitude: Energy is just energy unless we personalize it. You can be positive or negative it's your choice, but you'll find it's better to be positive. Think about the five people you spend the most time with as they dictate your energy. Gratitude: Give praise to others and your world will change. Glenn was not raised by his biological father, but he has gratitude for those men during his early years that were instrumental in his success. For example, his basketball coach at high school gave him extra time and explained to him during one of his first conversations that the coach fully expected him to lead the team someday. Passion: Glenn went to an outdoor motivational banquet and one of the featured presenters was a 70-year-old cowboy who rode up in a horse and started doing everything one could imagine with a lasso. At the end he simply said, "I love my rope.”

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”
 Mark Twain

Program July 3, 2012: Gary Bayus’ First Regular Meeting of the New Fiscal Year Year Devoted to Organizational Matters

 By Dick Dannells

Pres. Gary Bayus began his first meeting at 12:48 PM by going over the ground rules for the new fine-free badge.  A $100 fine will be imposed if the badge is lost and it must be transferred before the 12:10 PM of each meeting.  He then auctioned off the fine-free badge to Trish Hardy for $60.

 FINES:

Bob Dumouchel's July 7 birthday was recognized with a $25 fee. Ashlea Boyer was assessed $20 for not taking over her secret greeter duties by 11:50 AM.  Chuck Anders was about to be fined $25 for an article in the paper concerning CNWI, but was given a double or nothing opportunity if he could answer what CNWI means. Chuck correctly answered Certified Nose Work Instructor.  Michael Boyer was recognized with a $30 fine for receiving the honor of our club's Rotarian of the Year and the Vocational Service Leadership Award from Rotary International.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Martha Murphy reported that Greg Baker and Mike Kee were elected to the Rotary Foundation and she will be holding the last Foundation meeting of the year at her home at 5 PM on Monday, July 9.  The Wild West Summer Sizzle (the largest fund-raiser of the year, to be held on Saturday, August 18) requires that all members participate. Each member is to donate two bottles of wine having a retail value of $20 each and to raffle items having a total value of $50.  Bruce Beaudoin reported that the District 5240 membership committee is holding a two-hour seminar on July 14 at Rosa's restaurant from 8:30 until 11:45 AM.  Ashlea Boyer distributed out perfect attendance awards to those members who were not able to receive them at the demotion dinner. 

PROGRAM: Organizational Matters

Pres. Gary had all members pull numbers out of a hat so that each member had a number corresponding to one other member.  He then paired each of those members having the same number. He stated that each pair is encouraged to communicate frequently throughout the year so that each will get to know the other better and to make sure that each is coming to the weekly meetings or making up the meeting.  He requested that each member have a joke available if called upon at any given meeting.  If a member can immediately come up with such a joke, it can be used to offset a recognition fine. We are again bringing back the Four Seasons Dinner Club in which 4 couples will form a group. Each of the groups will have summer, fall, winter and spring dinners to foster fellowship.  There will be three local projects that will be the focus for the year.  Finally, reserve Saturday October 27 for a Halloween party because Pres. Gary's favorite holiday of the year is Halloween.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

 “No rule for success will succeed if you don't

Program June 19, 2012: Annual Club Awards
By Dick Dannells

Pres. Ashlea Boyer began the last regular meeting of her presidency at 12:43 PM and had the ballots distributed for the election of Rotary Foundation board members.

FINES
Jeff Norton was called upon to explain the recent events in his life that included his 52nd birthday and his 25th wedding anniversary to Kitty, which would have cost him $75, but the fact he possessed the fine-free badge. So on her last day, Pres. Ashlea added to her total fines for the year.  Steve Curry's 66th birthday and acquisition of a new puppy named Buddy were celebrated with a $60 assessment.  Frank Montesinos, Kathy Fissori, Jonathan Rubatzky, and Greg Baker were charged $10 for not wearing their Rotary pins. Gary Bayus' 19th wedding anniversary with Teri was recognized without a fine as he is maxed out..

Announcements:
Doug McMillan brought in his entire fourth through seventh grade soccer team; all dressed in uniform and ready to play and to receive our club's charitable contribution.

PROGRAM: Annual Club Awards
Perfect attendance awards beginning with the two-year award to Mark Olson, four years to Paul Toms., six years to Gary Bayus, eight years to Sean Schuur and Martha Murphy, 10 years to John Murphy, 11 years to Mike Frederick, 13 years to Marina Matthews, 15 years to Bruce Beaudoin and Connie O Henley, 17 years to Dick Dannells, 18 years to Steve Curry and Harlan Silva, 19 years to Sean Schuur, and 41 years to Paul Jones.  Awards to those members that provided special assistance to Pres. Ashlea during her year  were bestowed upon Charla Anderson and Sharon Ellis for sharing secretarial duties, Summer Sizzle chairman Gary Bayus, Rotary Forum editor Dick Dannells, RYLA coordinator Michael Boyer, Deborah Handley in charge of Family of Rotary, 50-50 raffle coordinator Trish Hardy, Rotary Moment Paul Jones, soccer tournament chairman Doug McMillan, John Murphy for his 12 years as literacy program coordinator, Rotary Foundation President and 4-Way Test chairman Martha Murphy, Assistant RYLA counselor and chairman of Interact Connie O Henley, Thoughts for the Day Paul Toms, Sgt. of Arms Abbey Silverstone and Kathy Fissori for all the little jobs she handled throughout her first year as a Rotarian, the spirit award. Marshall Williams was honored for taking nine months to obtain his permanent blue badge, the longest dinner clubs history. .

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:
A man getting on in years left a meeting and searched for the car keys with a personal pat down. When he got out to the parking lot he found his car was missing. He immediately called the deputy sheriff to report that his car was stolen. He then called his wife and said "Our car was stolen!" His wife exclaimed "You idiot, I dropped you off at the meeting and I will be able to pick you up as soon as I'm able to convince the deputy sheriff that I did not steal the car." The moral of this story is to try not to get old.

“You spend 90% of your adult life hoping for a long rest and the last 10% of your life convincing the Lord that you're not that tired." Attributed to Oliver Wendell Holmes

Program June 5, 2012: Gary Bayus - RI Convention in Bangkok, Thailand

By Dick Dannells

Pres. Ashlea Boyer began the meeting at 12:41 PM by auctioning off the fine-free badge to Kathy Fissori for $35.

FINES: The following members were each fined $10 for failing to wear a Rotary pin: Mark Olson, Paul Felice, Bruce Beaudoin, Keith Slocum, Greg Baker, and Marshall Williams. Mike Fredericks paid one dollar for each of his 55 earthly years. Bill Racine celebrated his 5th year with the club. The total fine for that as well as misinformation in his club directory profile and rudeness was $60.  Kathy Fissori's first year the club was recognized without a fine. Don Weber did not show up to give an invocation last week and Marshall Williams failed to be a secret creator for that same week, which cost them $10 and $20, respectively.                              

ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Steve Curry: the Paul Harris fellow awards will be distributed during Ashley Boyer’s demotion dinner on June 26. Martha Murphy: the annual scholarship awards will be presented at next week's meeting.

PROGRAM: Gary Bayus - RI Convention in Bangkok, Thailand
Gary presented a professionally-done DVD filmed, directed and produced by his wife Teri that encapsulated their entire Bangkok adventure.     

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:
“Politics has become so expensive that it takes a lot of money even to be defeated."
Will Rogers

"Politics is the ability to foretell what is going to happen tomorrow, next week, next month and next year. And to have the ability afterwards to explain why it didn't happen."
Winston Churchill

Program June 12, 2012: Travel Gift Auction

By Dick Dannells

Pres. Ashlea Boyer began the next to last meeting of her presidency at 12:43 PM.

FINES and announcements:
Bill Racine's hole-in-one cost him $50.  Marsha Williams finally received his blue badge, but was able to talk his way out of a fine.  Harlan Silva reported that the annual classic golf tournament resulted in a net of approximately $12,000.  Michael Boyer presented a community giving check to Project Surf that teaches those with special needs.  Similar checks were given by Chuck Anders to the YMCA representative and Mark Olson accepted a check on behalf of the E that is him and him xploration Station.  Carl Hansen received the club's yearly contribution to provide much needed support for the Food Bank Coalition of San Luis Obispo County.  Joel Conn presented scholarship checks to FFA, Interact, and the most improved student winners Chris Olson, Jason Clump and Sonja Lotelo, respectively.                       

PROGRAM: Travel Gift Auction
Mark Olson served as the auctioneer.  The following members had the top bids: Don Weber ($35 for Harley Davidson shirt); Julie, Tizzano ($27 for Lidy boutique shirt); John Murphy ($34 extra-large button-down shirt); Connie O Henley ($25 large sweatshirt); Bill Dugan ($25 legal moonshine from Kentucky and $40 for Southern Comfort); Deborah Handley ($17 for something from South Carolina and $50 for a gift basket); Gary Bayus ($26 for tequila); Cheryl Vines ($15 for almond cream tequila); Michael Boyer ($40 for Zinfandel and a throw blanket); Joel Conn ($15 for wild huckleberry jam); Bruce Beaudoin ($20 for napkins and potholders); Steve Curry ($105 for bamboo cutting board shaped like a ukulele); Harlan Silva ($46 for a bowl from the Tahiti); Martha Matthews ($38 for a vase from Northern Ireland); Abbey Silverstone ($35 for two books on presidents and $26 for a doll from Budapest); Charla Anderson ($20 for a hand carved wooden dog); Martha Murphy ($41 for an Australian boomerang); and Frank Montesinos ($40 for an unknown travel gift).           

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:
"When you are crying everyone else is smiling and when you die, you’re smiling and everyone else is crying."

Program May 22, 2012: Arroyo Grande High School FFA

At 12:43 PM, Pres. Ashlea Boyer levied the 1st ever fine for failure to circulate over the course of many weeks on each of the members at a table.

FINES:
$10 fines were levied on the members at the table in question that included Paul Jones, Paul Toms, Abbey Silverstone, Jack Hardy, Mike Kee and Tommy Thompson. Chuck Anders 64th year on Earth resulted in a $60 recognition fee. Martha Murphy was recognized in the amount of $40 for her club anniversary and for forgetting to properly introduce Ashlea at the Rotary Classic golf tournament.  Paul Felice was not fined (he had the fine-free badge) for his new home in Arroyo Grande and for hitting a golf ball during the last hole of the Rotary Classic tournament into the San Luis Obispo Country Club member-only bar.  Paul Toms was fined a whopping $75 for his May 26 birthday of 88 years and his marriage to Eva of 67 years. Paul Felice and Keith Slocum were assessed a $10 not-wearing-a-Rotary-pin fine. Amber Rogers' photo in the newspaper advertising Arroyo Grande Hospital cost her $25.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Connie O Henley standing in for Steve Curry presented one of our charitable giving checks to the president of FFA. Julie Tizzano presented a travel gift (a bottle of flavored tequila) from her recent trip to Cabo San Lucas.

PROGRAM: Arroyo Grande High School FFA
Connie O Henley introduced the officers of the FFA who proceeded to discuss the annual state-wide Proficiency Awards that their members won in a number of areas covering such projects as family farm lemon and lime growing, job interview contests, impromptu public speaking, dairy and livestock judging and agricultural mechanics.  The big news for the AGHS FFA program is the new agricultural building that should be available for the students entering in the fall.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:
“If we discovered that we only had five minutes left to say all that we wanted to say, every telephone booth would be occupied by people calling other people to stammer that they loved them." Christopher Morley
 “Speak ill of no man, but speak all the good you know of everybody” Benjamin Franklin

Program for May 16, 2012: Rotary Four-Way Test Contest Winners Read Essays

At 12:32 PM, Pres. Ashlea Boyer began the meeting by calling upon 9th grader Kathleen Schwind to read the 1st essay that won third-place entitled "The 4-Way Test: Now And Then," so she could return to AGHS to take a test.

Kathleen's essay was then followed by the Primary Division essays of Paige Amoroso, a second-grader and a first-place winner, Mustafa Assal, and Tomislav Fahlen, both in 3rd grade and 2nd place and 3rd place winners, respectively.

The Intermediate Division (grades 4-6) included essays by 6th grader Rebecca Schwind, a first-place winner; fourth-grader Akitko Hayashi, a 2nd place winner, and 5th grader Carlos Robinson, a third-place winner

The essays of the Middle School Division were read by Ryan Brennan, first-place winner and the overall contest winner of the District prize of $200, and 2nd place winner Lucy Wickstrom, both in the 8th grade.

The remaining essays of the High School Division were read by 2nd place winner Akash Salam and Joanne Crandall, who won 1st place and the $300 District 1st prize.

As the reading of the essays ran over the allotted time, Paul Toms said he would give 2 Thoughts For The Day next week.   We did have time to have Terry Fibich pull out the black marble and win the paltry sum of $37.

Program May 8, 2012: Eric Meyer-Edna Valley to Pismo Beach Combination Bike, Equestrian and Hiking Path

At 12:36 PM, Pres. Ashlea Boyer invited Dick Dannells the opportunity to donate $50 worth of happy bucks to celebrate his new living arrangement.

FINES:
After Andy Park had been inducted into the club presided over by Steve Curry, Andy was presented with his red badge, which resulted in a $50 fee that included recognition of his 54th birthday on April 28. In addition, he was presented with a $1,000 Paul Harris fellow certificate and pin. Sandy Lubin was fined $57 when pitted against John Murphy; he gave the wrong answer to a quiz question based on a recent Rotarian magazine article.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:
There is still time to volunteer for the annual middle school soccer tournament this coming Saturday, May 12th. Chuck Anders reported on the annual golf classic on May 18 at the San Luis Obispo Country Club. Pres. Ashlea announced, 
based on the club assembly and comments by the members, the board has decided not to make any changes in the types of members.

PROGRAM: Eric Meyer-Edna Valley to Pismo Beach Combination Bike, Equestrian and Hiking Path
Connie O Henley introduced Eric Meyer, who is an unlicensed architect, ex-skateboarder, planning commissioner, and shoe designer. Eric has been interested in a path that would be open to cyclists, walkers, equestrians and runners for a long time. He has even taken upon himself purchase a few parcels along old unused Pacific Coast Railroad right-of-way.  The path would include other trails so that there would be a continuous path from San Luis Obispo to Pismo Beach. The path would be separated from motoring traffic along Price Canyon Road.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:
England does not have a kidney bank, but they have a large Liverpool.
“A good time to keep your mouth closed is when you are in deep water."

Program May 1, 2012: Sarah Paddock-Executive Director of Central Coast Salmon Enhancement

At 12:38 PM, Pres. Ashlea Boyer began the meeting by calling upon Bruce Beaudoin to give up his fine-free badge so she could auction it off.

FINES:
Don Weber was the top bidder at $60 to avoid having to pay a recognition fee for his May 1, 1933 date of birth. Marshall Williams’s birthday back in April when he turned 50 cost him $1 per year.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:
The next to last board meeting of the year will be at Ashlea's home this coming Thursday, May 3^rd. Bruce Beaudoin is the incoming membership director for our district. The annual middle school soccer tournament will be held on May 12; a sign-up sheet will be circulated for volunteers. The Clark Center will be celebrating its 10th anniversary with 10 days of numerous activities. Go to the Internet for the schedule and to obtain free tickets for Sunday and concert. In the raffle drawing, Bob Dumouchel's winning ticket was drawn from a hat by Julie Tizzano and Bob proceeded to pull out the black marble.  The Demotion Banquet will be held at 6 PM on Tuesday, June 26, 2012. 

PROGRAM: Sarah Paddock-Executive Director of Central Coast Salmon Enhancement
Connie O Henley introduced Sarah who was Connie's educational director when Connie was the executive director of this organization. Since then they established a new facility, have a new logo and have written a new mission statement.  One of Salmon Enhancement's important missions is watershed enhancement to protect both the water and land within Central Coast's watershed as well as enhancing the quality of the area' s natural resources. Emphasis is placed on improving the quantity and quality of water, flood management, erosion control, and fish and wildlife habitat. The Grand Opening of their Science Education Trails on Arroyo Grande Creek is on Saturday, May 19^th, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the Stanley Avenue headquarters.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:
“When I approach a child, he inspires in me two sentiments; tenderness for what he is, and respect for what he may become."
Louis Pasteur

Program April 24, 2012: Toby Mitchell-Classic Electric & Consulting

Pres. Ashlea Boyer began the meeting at 12:40 PM with the usual introductions.

FINES:
Jonathan and Monica Rubatzky celebrated 19 blissful years of marriage and Jonathan received a $25 recognition fee.  Trish Hardy paid the $25 fine of Vicki Pennisi in recognition of Vicki's 4th club anniversary. John Murphy was fined $20 for not knowing that a lobster is on the cover of the May issue of the Rotary magazine. Both John Murphy and Connie O Henley were fined $20 for cell phone violations.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Martha Murphy's mother has been taken to Mission View Care Center in San Luis Obispo. Charlotte Anderson reported on the fine progress of J.T. as a result of his treatments for cancer. Doug Macmillan reported on the annual vodka martini shakedown with 100% of the $60 price of the ticket going to the AGHS soccer team.  Rosie Weir, Center Director of Team Challenge of Southern California, came forward to accept a community giving check from Paul Jones. May 19 is the date for the poker run fundraiser put on by San Luis Obispo's Rotaract club. Connie O'Henley is recovering from 3/2 days as an advisor to the Rotary Youth Leadership Award Conference (RYLA) that was attended by 13 kids from AGHS. April is Rotary magazine month that featured an article reporting that the clergy has the highest job satisfaction rate.

PROGRAM: Toby Mitchell-Classic Electric & Consulting
Marina Matthews introduced Toby, who for the last 2 years has provided basic and complex electrical troubleshooting, energy audits, sustainable energy, energy management, lighting, land many other electrical needs. Toby focuses on reduction of your electric bill. He illustrated an energy audit of a nonprofit Christian church school, which had an enormous electric bill of $7000 a month. With a little investigation, he found that they were qualified for a much lower rate. This reduced their electric bills to only $2800 a month without even changing the light bulbs they were using. He reviewed a number of the latest technology such as the use of solar LED's in highway pavements, solar film placed on windows that serves the same function as roof solar panels, and daylight harvesting, which moderates the lighting fixtures depending on the next light.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:
"It is hard to make a comeback when you haven't been anywhere."

Program April 17, 2012: Cheryl Vines-Owner of Mesa Design Group in Nipomo

Pres. Ashlea Boyer began the meeting at 12:36 PM by asking members not wearing their Rotary pins to stand.

FINES:
Kathy Fissori, Jonathan Rubatzky, and Bob Dumouchel stood and received their fines of $20 each. Sean Schuur must've had the fine-free badge because he escaped recognition for his 43rd birthday without a fine. Similarly, Bruce and Marcia Beaudoin’s 45 years of marriage was recognized, but the event did not incur any fee. Jonathan Rubatzky donated $100 happy bucks on becoming a grandfather to a granddaughter. Joel and Sara Conn's mid-pregnancy celebratory trip to Hawaii was commemorated with a donation of an organic bamboo cutting board for the travel gifts' auction.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Julie Tizzano was presented with a plaque, card and flowers from Anna Boyd-Bucy, the executive director of Big Brothers Big sisters, for all her work as a member of their Board of Directors. This occurred after Julie presented a community giving check to that organization.  The judging of the Rotary four-way contest essays will be held at the Murphy's home at 5 PM this April 17 evening.  Greg Baker reminded everyone of the upcoming Rotary Foundation Golf Classic on Friday, May 18th, $175 per golfer. The San Luis Obispo Rotary club is sponsoring a fundraiser for Saturday, May 19. Members are encouraged to support this cause. Rainy Ross Nolan's mother died and as a former, very active member she will receive a memorial card from our club. Jim Gregory, the longtime advisor for Interact Club at Arroyo Grande High School, has had health problems and may no longer be able to serve as their advisor

PROGRAM: Cheryl Vines-Owner of Mesa Design Group in Nipomo
Cheryl is a designer in contrast to a decorator, which are not designers. She is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID). There are 7 elements to design: (1) space, shape and form; (2) mass, i.e. the density of matter, such as arranging a sofa in a dressing room; (3) lines, which can be straight, curved, circular, horizontal, etc.; (4) texture; (5) pattern; (6) light either natural or artificial, and finally (7) color. If you have any need for redesigning any room your business or home, she will conduct a one-hour analysis reported $250.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:
"Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power."
Abraham Lincoln

"Personality can open doors-but only character can keep them open.”
EG Letterman

Program April 10, 2012: Club Assembly

Pres. Ashlea Boyer began the meeting at 12:36 PM by catching up on her fines.

FINES:
After 3 years of re-employment, Bill Racine retired for the 2nd time and received a $30 fine. Harlan Silva was about to be fined for a new car that he purchased in 2009 back in Martha Murphy's administration. Consequently, Pres. Ashlea let him off the hook. However, Linda Osty was not so lucky because for the little black car in which she's been driving cost her $40, the fine, that is, not the car. Linda and Terry Fibich's 34 years of wedded bliss cost him $35. And similarly Linda (Linda is getting a little repetitious in this write-up!) and Steve Curry have enjoyed the same type of bliss for 40 years of togetherness of which 29 years were after a formal wedding, which cost him $40.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Mark Olson announced that the annual middle school soccer tournament will be on Saturday, May 12 at the usual venue. The following Friday, May 18 will be the annual Rotary foundation golf tournament as announced by Paul Felice. 

PROGRAM: Sandy Lubin: Presided Over A Club Assembly On The Subject Of Whether or Not to Establish A New Type Of Membership
The decision of whether or not to establish a new type of membership that includes attending meetings without lunch will be announced in this Rotary Forum. However, the details of this club assembly are not for general distribution.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:
Little Johnny asked his mother, "I saw on television that I came from a monkey." Mother, "Well Johnny, on your mother's side, you came from God. On your father side you came from a monkey."

"Every car has a large windshield in front and a small window in the rear because our past is not nearly as important as our future."

Program for April 3, 2012: Aaron Chriswell: Vice President and Gen. Manager of Radio Central Coast
By Dick Dannells

Pres. Ashlea Boyer began the meeting at 12:41 PM by giving a lecture on the correct way to pass the fine-free badge from the purchaser of the month to someone who is trying to have her pay his or her fine. The fine free badge must be passed before she rings the bell started the meeting.

FINES:
Cliff Nagler's poor introduction and having engaged in holy matrimony to Samantha on April Fools' Day cost him $20 and $30, respectively.  Gary Bayus' 52nd year on Earth as of April 5 (the bio section of the Club Runner indicates that he was born in 1900, the default year for those that have not included the correct year.) was recognized without a fine because he's over the fine limit. Tommy Thompson's wedding anniversary of 16 years resulted in a $35 fine. Sandy Lubin was given a choice of either paying a fine of $17 to our club now or going back to the AG Rotary club and paying his lunch bill. It seems that when Sandy tried to pay for the lunch, the AG club treasurer could not change his $100 bill.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Gary Bayus reported on the Rotary District assembly and the trip down and back (that included a side trip to the Chumash Casino Resort) in Kathy Fissori’s van that was chauffeured by Gary and included passengers Linda and Ken Osty, Kathy, Dick Dannells and Mary Ann Reiss. A board meeting will be held at Linda Osty's home this coming Thursday, April 5. Steve Curry reported on Grover Beach Rotary's 100 golf hole marathon fundraiser in which he and Bruce Beaudoin took in more than $4000 of donations. The annual middle school soccer tournament will take place on Saturday, May 12 as reported by Doug MacMillan.

PROGRAM: Aaron Chriswell: Vice President and Gen. Manager of Radio Central Coast
Cliff Nagler introduced Aaron who has the responsibility for the overall operation of Radial Central Coast’s 4 radio stations: KWWV, KPYG, KXTZ/DZ, and KYNS. He oversees all of the departments that include: programming, sales, marketing, engineering, and finance. The 4 stations cater to an audience that ranges from the very young to the very old. The peak audiences are from 6 AM to 7 AM, 10 AM to 1 PM, 3 PM to 7 PM, especially the 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM timeslot. A few years ago he remembers when they had a meeting regarding texting. He asked the question, "Why would anybody text someone if you could just call them on the phone." Well, as we can see now, texting is very hot!

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:
Speaking of radio, Paul remembers getting his 1st crystal radio 83 years ago.
 "Ideas won't keep; something must be done about them. "
Whitehead, Alfred North

Program for March 27, 2012: Sandy Richardson-President of San Luis Obispo County Womenade

By Dick Dannells

Pres. Ashlea Boyer began the meeting at 12:40 PM and called upon Jeff Norton to present a Community Giving check to Pismo Beach officer Jake Mullen, cochairman of the annual Thanksgiving dinner at the Pismo Beach Veterans Hall.

FINES:

Connie O Handley and Marina Matthews were recognized for their birthdays with only Connie been fined $29. It was assumed that Marina had the fine-free badge. Doug Macmillan was recognized for his 14th wedding anniversary with Shannon by contributing $25 to the club. Steve Curry celebrated his 28th year since the founding of the club in 1984 with a $30 assessment. March 21 and March 16 were the 1st and 2nd club anniversaries of Kerri Ziegler and Brendan Reitsma, which resulted in fines of $21 and $25, respectively. A brouhaha resulted when Trish Hardy goaded Pres. Ashlea into levying a $50 fine for her club anniversary. She had allegedly obtained the fine-free badge at the prescribed time from Marina, but was not able to convince Sgt. of Arms John Murphy. Therefore, Pres. Ashlea did not have to fine herself, but levied fines on Trish and Marina of $25 each.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Connie O Handley announced that the Interact club missed another walk on the beach fundraiser because of rain, which means that they will reschedule the event in May. Kathy F’issouri will be driving down to Oxnard for the Rotary District assembly and requested those who wish to hitch a ride to call her. Martha Murphy announced that the review of the four-way test essays will take place on April 17.

PROGRAM: President of San Luis Obispo County Womenade

Womenade, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, donates items, time, and money to meet essential needs of women in San Luis Obispo County. All donated funds go directly to support individual women in crisis. They receive referrals from schools, medical professionals, county health departments, and organizations such as Family Care Network, Women’s Shelter, and Prado Day Center. A few examples of the type of essential needs that they provide include train tickets and a stay in a motel for a woman to go to USF for a brain scan; baby clothes and other items for young mother living in a trailer; inhaler and heart medicine; and a three-month stay in a motel for an abused woman.

Raffle Winner
Vicki Pennisi was one of the biggest raffle prize winners in recent times with total winnings of $497 when she drew the black marble with only 3 marbles left. What makes it even more interesting is that Charla Anderson, the secret greeter, chose Vicki to draw her own ticket.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES: "
"Never look down on anybody unless you're helping to pick them up."

Program for March 20, 2012: Stacy Church- Shoreline Workforce Development Services
By Dick Dannells

Pres. Ashlea Boyer began the meeting at 12:39 PM and he accepted a travel gift during introductions from John Murphy, which he obtained during his and Martha's trip to Hawaii.

FINES:
Joel Conn did not attend a meeting that he was scheduled to attend and told the story of how his wife Sarah discovered that she was 4 months pregnant. For these 2 items, he was fined $25. Amber Rogers received a fine of $1 for each of her years on Earth. Bob Dumouchel turned in his red badge for the blue one for a service charge of $40.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:
John Murphy, Abbey Silverstone, and Don Weber presented Community Giving checks to Katie Hilton of St. Patrick's Outreach, a representative of Lucia Mar Foundation for Innovation, and Bernie Horton of People’s Kitchen, respectively.  Joel Conn distributed new pages for the club’s member directory. Gary Bayus reminded everybody of the District 5240 Assembly in Oxnard on Saturday, March 31. The theme for this year's big fundraiser is going to be the Wild West at Edwards Barn in Nipomo.

PROGRAM: Stacy Church- Shoreline Workforce Development Services
Stacy explained that Shoreline Workforce Development Services is the education, training and employment division of Goodwill Industries of Santa Cruz, Monterey and San Luis Obispo Counties. She illustrated the services they provide by relating the story of a young unemployed man, whose wife left him with 2 children care for, who said he would do what it takes to land a job. His story is something like the movie “Pursuit of Happiness." After attending a number of workshops and mock interviews that he diligently showed up on time for, he had his 1st job interview. The interview went so well that he got a call back from the potential employer. However, the agency could not get in contact with him because, as they later found out, he lost his cell phone. Fortunately this was explained and he landed the job, which has its own on-the-job training program. This is just one of many examples of the services they provide.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:
"Don't walk behind me; I may not lead. Don't walk in front of me; I may not follow. Just walk beside me and be my friend."
Albert Camus

Program for March 13, 2012: Kevin L Harlan-GENERAL MANAGER OF KCOY CHANNEL 12 NEWS

By Dick Dannells

Pres. Ashlea Boyer began the meeting at 12:39 PM by having Gary Bayus recognize those that helped on the highway cleanup last Saturday: Trish Hardy, Frank Montesinos, Michael Boyer, Jonathan Rubatzky, and Terry Fibich.

FINES:

Connie O’Henley’s 17th wedding anniversary with Don resulted in a $20 recognition fee. Dick Dannells' new-to-him wheels as well as a mention of what would have been his 54^th wedding anniversary with his late wife Diane cost him a $40 assessment. Paul Filice's new home and 8th wedding anniversary to Amy on February 7 cost him $50. Bill and Linda Dugan celebrated their 21st wedding anniversary. Jack Hardy returned from New Orleans with a travel gifts that he presented to Pres. Ashlea.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Sandy Lubin presented a Community Giving check to Connie O Henley for the Clark Center.  Gary Bayus and Dick Dannells presented similar checks to Will Barrow for Youth with a Mission and to Mary Howell for Meals on Wheels, respectively. Connie O’Henley reported on Interact's walk on the beach fund raiser to support local causes.

PROGRAM: Kevin L Harlan-GENERAL MANAGER OF KCOY CHANNEL 12 NEWS
Cliff Nagler introduced Kevin who began by comparing today's Channel 12 market, which is 12 million less than 2006. Their channel covers a 160 mile-long-five-mile wide TV network that at times is a challenge to cover. He has been in his present position 31/2 years. They were very pleased that they were able to hire Tony Cabello away from KSBY a short time ago.  Kevin has had the difficult job of laying off 13 people in January. They have had to make a lot of hard decisions lately and have decided to cover more local news and keep more reporters on the street. In answer to a question, he stated that it is very difficult for a TV manager to find the time to become a member of Rotary.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:
WORRYING does not take away tomorrow’s TROUBLES, it takes away today’s PEACE.

Program for February 28, 2012: CJ Silas of the Cal State Roller Derby

By Dick Dannells

Pres. Ashlea Boyer began the meeting at 12:38 PM with the usual introductions.

FINES:
Jonathan Robatzky failed to give a proper introduction that cost him $10. Harlan Silva and Arnie Dowdy were fined $30 each as they celebrated their 28 years as founding members of this club. Mark and Amanda Olson's expectant child resulted in a $30 fine and his club anniversary cost him an extra $20. Bill Racine rose to complain to Pres. Ashlea that she forgot to fine him for the anniversary of his marriage to Lois in February. Although she suspected he had the fine-free badge so she fined him only $20, which she had to pay since he had did, in fact, have the badge.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:
A representative of the San Luis Obispo Monday club promoted their fundraiser called a Spaghetti Western on March 17 at the Elks Lodge in San Luis at only $25 per ticket. Pres. Ashlea stressed that the sponsors of various charitable organizations should call her to set up a date to present the checks to the recipients' representatives. Terry Fibich requested volunteers for the highway cleanup on Saturday, March 3 with a Coco's breakfast at 7:30 AM. Bruce Beaudoin asked for people to sign up for Grover Beach Rotary Club's golf marathon fundraiser.

PROGRAM: CJ Silas of the Cal State Roller Derby
Sandy Lubin introduced CJ, who then introduced her teammates that held such day jobs as hairstylist, police officer, banker and manager. Recently for publicity purposes, the 5 City Roller Kitties mer A representative of the San Luis Obispo Monday club promoted their fundraiser called a Spaghetti Western on March 17 at the Elks Lodge in San Luis at only $25 per ticket. Pres. Ashlea stressed that the sponsors of various charitable organizations should call her to set up a date to present the checks to the recipients' representatives. Terry Fibich requested volunteers for the highway cleanup on Saturday, March 3 with a Coco's breakfast at 7:30 AM. Bruce Beaudoin asked for people to sign up for Grover Beach Rotary Club's golf marathon fundraiser. ged with the Cal State Roller Derby to form a nonprofit league that gives back to the community. CJ has been roller derby skating for 6 years and admits that while she may be a little past her prime she still enjoys it very much. She explained that each roller derby match had 2-30 min. periods. Each team has 5 members, which includes 4 blockers and one jammer. They have extra team members in the sidelines to come in as substitutes. However, if a team member is penalized for elbowing, cutting, hair pulling, tripping, holding, screaming or cursing at the ref, they are removed for at least a minute without substitutions being allowed. The next match is on March 24 in Santa Maria, but you are advised get your tickets early as they usually sell out. Her team members then got up and presented a demonstration of the various roller derby moves on the adjacent hardwood floor where the buffet tables are situated.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:
"I'm sure roller-skating adds extra years to your life so you can spend 5 of those post 80s years in a nursing home.”

"There is no greater joy nor greater reward than to make a fundamental difference in someone's life."

Sister Mary Rose McGeady

Program for February 21, 2012: Sandra Duerr-Executive Editor of Sam San Luis Obispo Tribune

By Dick Dannells

At 12: 42 PM, Pres. Ashlea Boyer began the meeting with a few fines.

FINES:
Brendan Reitsma received one for $40 for celebrating his 41st birthday on Valentine's Day. He donated a vacation to Cabo San Lucas gift. Mike Kee's 5th year with the club received one for $25. Trish Hardy celebrated a new part-time teaching job at the Santa Maria business college teaching medical terms and the buying of a new car. All of this for the bargain price of a $40 fine. Sgt. Of Arms John Murphy fined Pres. Ashlea $80 for her 8 years with the club, but it was reduced after it was recognized that she received her blue badge in a record 8 days from the time she became a member.  Deborah Handley was fined $40 for opening a new McDonald's restaurant in Arroyo Grande.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:
John Murphy announced that the 1st distribution of the new sports books (formerly McGruff) will take place on March 21. Deborah Handley announced that if you have a TV in your place of business, you may be fined $40 if the TV is not equipped with subtext  for people with hearing loss. On March 6 from 12 to 1:30 PM, we will have a vocational visit to the Avila Sea Life Center. Maps will be provided to all members via e-mail. Gary Bayus reported  he will be going to the Rotary President Elect Training Seminar (P E T S) and he was then fined $20 for not pronouncing the name of the District Gov.  Michael Boyer announced the selection of 9 students out of 19 candidates for RYLA .

PROGRAM: Sandra Duerr-Executive Editor of Sam San Luis Obispo Tribune
Sandra began by stating that the recession has greatly affected the classified section of the newspaper. 10 years ago the classified section was bulging, but not so today. They've decided to cut way back on the size of the Monday and Tuesday editions, as they are the slowest of the week. They now have a lot more on-line coverage and subscribers turn to the web for more in-depth information on various articles. Typical stories of local news include Arroyo Grande's new police station, the pigeons at the Pismo Beach pier, the Diablo Canyon Power Plant, the salaries of local public employees, the ending of binding arbitration for local police officers, and Cal Poly volleyball coach’s dismissal for sexual harassment and student drinking and sexual assaults that have been up in recent years. They have a circulation of about 40,000 on Sunday and between 32,000 and 33,000 on Monday through Saturday. They have a list of 3000 on-line subscribers. In comparison, 10 years ago the Sunday edition had a circulation of 46,000 and the daily edition 40,000. The McClatchy Company, owner of the Sacramento Bee, took over the newspaper on June 27, 2006.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:
"Don't let your victories go to your head, or your failures go to your heart.”

Program for February 14, 2012: Sandra Dickerson- CEO and HR Director of Your People Professionals (YPP)

By Dick Dannells

The meeting was begun at 12:38 PM by Pres. Ashlea Boyer and in honor of Valentine's Day she placed roses in a vase for the members' wives

FINES:

Pres. Ashlea tapped Jack Hardy for a $20 advertising fee. Sandy Lubin brought back an Aloa shirt from his trip to  Hawaii and therefore, was not fined for his failure to introduce Joel Conn's wife. Linda Osty's marriage of 31 years with Ken was recognized with a $30 fine.  Paul Felice's photo in the newspaper for being among the top 40 business people in San Luis Obispo County and for his 8th anniversary with Amy resulted in a $40 fine. Paul Toms celebrated his 12th year with the club by paying a $20 assessment.  Amber Rogers found out that the price of converting her red temporary badge to a blue one has risen to $40.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Andy Park was present and is in the process of returning to the club as a new member. It was announced that RYLA has 19 candidates vying for 9 positions with interviews scheduled for February 16. Marshall Williams' son is on the AGHS varsity basketball team as a freshman and will be playing a CIF Southern Section Boys Basketball Playoff game on February 15. Mark Olson introduced Sheila Hardy as president of Captive Hearts to receive a charitable donation from the club. Another member of the Hardy team, Jack, and his band will be opening for the Gatlin Brothers in a fundraiser on February 24

PROGRAM: Sandra Dickerson- CEO and HR Director of Your People Professionals (YPP)

Sandra, a member of the California and American Bar Associations, began by explaining that YPP provides human resource (HR) management to clients that include employees that have suffered retaliation by the company and subjected to race, age and disability discrimination and employers having HR problems.  Because of the downturn in the economy, a lot more employees are filing such complaints. As a result, many major insurance carriers of this type of insurance are pulling out of California. She gave one example of an employer-client who would not listen to the advice given by YPP.  As a result, what started off as a relatively simple case of trying to terminate an employee blew up into a suit involving sex discrimination, wrongful termination and retaliation.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

"Marriage has no guarantees. If that's what you're looking for, go live with a car battery.”
Erma Bombeck
"If you have a talent, use it in every which way possible. Don't hoard it. Don't dole it out like a miser. Spend it lavishly like a millionaire intent on going broke."
Brendan Francis

Program for February 7, 2012: J. W. Townsend-Public Information Officer for the California Highway Patrol

By Dick Dannells

At 12:40 p.m. Pres. Ashlea Boyer began the meeting without auctioning off the fine-free badge.

FINES:
Instead she proceeded to fine Mike Kee, Paul Jones, Paul Toms, and Jack Hardy $10 for having no women at their table and Trish Hardy $20 for not knowing her table guest’s name and then had to retract the fines when she remembered she had not auctioned off the fine-free badge. Keith Slocum celebrated his 40th birthday on 22 February without a fine because he had reached his limit. Bill Racine's 65th birthday on February 11 was recognized with a $55 fine. A $60 fine was levied on Frank Montesinos for his 69th birthday.                                                                                                           

ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Steve Curry announced he had a hole-in-one on the 147 yard par 3, 8th hole at the San Luis Obispo Country Club. He also announced that he is entering the Grover Beach Rotary Club’s fundraiser to play the hundred golf holes.  See Steve for details.

PROGRAM: J. W. Townsend-Public Information Office for the California Highway Patrol
He began by stating that 2 new laws have been enacted for 2012 by the California legislature: #1 Car seats are now required for children 8 years and younger. #2 The law requiring impounding motorists involved in a DUI has been changed. This law will not have much impact in this area since only 12 DUI arrests were made last year in the 5 Cities. Statewide crashes, citations for moving violations, and property damage were down in 2011.  Motorists are driving more slowly. Verbal warnings for DUI’s are up. From the Cuesta Grade to Nipomo, there were 702 DUI citations.  The senior volunteers have been a great help.  They join in a wide variety of activates including going on patrols, handling parking complaints, and doing the daily court runs. The early morning and the evening rush hour result in the greatest amount of traffic problems as you would expect.  The use of all types of electronic devices lead to distracted drivers, which is a big factor in accidents. It is illegal to have ear plugs in both ears. Blue tooth devices are still ok.

 THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:
"A friend is someone that reaches for your hand, but touches your heart."

Program for January 31, 2012: 2011 – 2012 Charitable Giving Program
By Dick Dannells

Pres. Ashlea Boyer started the meeting very promptly at 12:37 PM to allow time for all the sponsors to speak on behalf of their favorite charity.

 FINES:

Keith Slocum's club anniversary on January 28, 2003 was recognized in the amount of $20. Jonathan Reitsma's new car resulted in a $40 assessment. John Murphy received a $20 fine for a cell phone infraction.

 ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Linda Osty reported on The Symposium to Eliminate Poverty Sustainably (STEPS) that took place in Santa Maria on Saturday, January 28. Gary Bayus announced that the Lompoc Rotary is having a wine tasting party on Sunday, February 26 from 1-4 PM at $40 per ticket.

 PROGRAM: 2011 – 2012 Charitable Giving Program  

 THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

 "Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved." Helen Keller

 "So long as little children are allowed to suffer, there is no true love in this world." Isodore Duncan

Program for January 24, 2012: Paul Toms: Rotary Moments

ByDick Dannells

Pres.Ashlea Boyer started the meeting promptly at 12:38 PM so that she could catch up on her fine total for the year.

FINES:

Her 1st fines for the afternoon went tothe following male members for introducing a fictitious female as a guest attheir table in place of the real thing: Paul Jones, Paul Toms, Don Weber, JackHardy, Tommy Thompson, Bill Racine, and Marshall Williams.  $75 and $36 fines was levied on Dick Dannellsand Paul Felice for their 77 and 36 years on Earth, respectively. Greg Baker's clubanniversary and his 6th year of marriage bliss with Stacy were recognized tothe tune of $25. Sharon and Bud Ellis and Deborah and Keith Handley celebratedtheir 34^th and 17^th wedding anniversaries with $35 and$20 recognition fees. Connie O'Henley received loud recognition by the membersand a $20 fine for her fantastic 16 years of service with the club. Pres.Ashlea asked the followingmembers that did not have on their Rotary pins to stand and receive $10 finesexcept for Arnie Dowdy who received a $20 fine: Mary Ann Reese, Andrew Goodwin,Jack Hardy, Keith Slocum, Kathy Fissouri, and Bill Racine.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Nextweek's meeting will be the annual presentation by sponsors of various charitiesto be included in the Community Giving program. John Murphy spoke on theliteracy program that is made possible by a Simi Valley Rotarian, Larry Baker, whogenerates personalized books including books on safety given out to 3rd gradersin the Santa Lucia school system by members of the Rotary clubs in our area. Johnis grooming Brandon Reitsma to take over this project next year. The Symposium toEliminate Poverty Sustainably (STEPS) will take place in Santa Barbara this Saturday, January 28.  Travel gifts were presented to Pres. Ashlea byKeith Slocum (wine from his trip up north) and Arnie Dowdy (vanilla beans from Hawaii).  Pres. Ashlea reported that Indiafor the 1st time is now polio-free. This leaves only Pakistan,Afghanistan andNigeria as theonly countries in the world that continue to have widespread polio. As a resultof Rotary's matching of the $200 million grant by the Bill Gates Foundation tofight polio around the world, the Foundation dollars donated another $250million.

Paul Toms: RotaryMoments

2 young man, Mark DeMoss and Lanny Davis, started TheCivility Project that asked all 100 senators 435 members of House ofRepresentatives, and 50 state governors to sign the following pledge:

• “I will be civil in my public discourse and behavior.

• I will be respectful of others whether or not I agree withthem.

• I will stand against incivility when I see it.”

Only 3 pledges were returned. Rotary clubs not only conductthemselves in a civil manner, but foster the concept of service above self.With 150 million orphaned children and 500 million starving children in theworld there is a tremendous need for such service. One such service project wasthe supplying of 500 mosquito nets to protect from malaria the inhabitants ofthe West African country of Sierra Leone.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

"Doingthe easy thing is rarely the right thing, but doing the right thing is rarelyeasy."

Program for January 10, 2012: Craft Talks by Amber Rogers and BobDumouchel  By Dick Dannells

Pres.Ashlea Boyer again promptly started the meeting at 12:38 PM to make sure we had plenty of time for the crafttalks.

FINES:

A poor introduction by Steve Adams costhim $20 and, if I'm not mistaken, that was the only fine for the day.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Finalreminder: On  Tuesday, January 17, 2011 at 4 PM we will meet at Talley Vineyards.  See last week's Rotary forum for directions. The Symposium to Eliminate Poverty Sustainably (STEPS) will take placein Santa Maria on Saturday, January28.  Steve Curry asked those members tocheck with him if you would like to hang a poster in your place of business toadvertise the South County Historical Society's fundraising event.  John Wakeman rose to speak on the reasons hefinds it necessary to take a leave of absence from the club for a while untilhis back is being strengthened.

Craft Talks by AmberRogers and Bob Dumouchel

The Story of Bob began in Anaheim58 years ago before there was a Disneyland. Bob went toWalt Disney elementary school and upon graduation from high school he went forhis post senior trip to Vietnam,all expenses paid by the U. S. Government. He stayed in the Army until 1978 andcame out as a Staff Sgt. at the age of 25. He believes he was the youngest that achieved that rank. When he got out,he began working for Birkenstock Footprints in San Rafael California than for Mueller Food-service inMilwaukee, Wisconsin,where he built a house. In Wisconsin,he experienced snowstorms for the 1st time in his life. Presently he owns Systems& Marketing Solutions, which actively manages Google Adwords Accounts sinceJuly 7, 2003.

Amber began her journey through life 29 years ago in Idahowhere she excelled in many rodeo events and received a rodeo scholarship upongraduation from high school. She chose nursing because she wisely concludedthat such a career would mean she would always have a job. After obtaining RNdegree, she moved to Seattle whereit rained all the time. She saw the movie "Clueless" which mentioned Pismo Beach where the sun goes for thewinter. Within a short time, she got married, divorced and went to work for Arroyo Grande Community Hospital. From 2009 to March 2011she went from a night nurse, day nurse, nursing supervisor to the director ofthe Intensive Care and Primary Care units. She loves her job and asks anyfellow Rotarian that is in the hospital to look her up.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

"Moneywill buy a pretty good dog, but it won't buy the wag of his tail." --JoshBillings

Program for January 3, 2012: Teri Bayus “The Life of a ScreenplayWriter"

ByDick Dannells

Pres.Ashlea Boyer enthusiastically began the 1st meeting of the New Year promptly at12:38 PM and proceeded to auctionoff the fine-free badge.

FINES:

Paul Felice outbid the field at $60. The following members were fined $10 each for failing to invite a female to theirtable: Marshall Williams, Bill Dugan, Jack Hardy, Mike Kee, Paul Toms, JonathanRubatzky, Steve Curry, Sandy Lubin, Paul Felice, Chuck Andrews, Terry Fibich,Mike Fredericks, and Bill Racine. Mary Ann Reese received a $20 recognition forher club anniversary. Mike Kee and Harlan Silva 64th and 56th respectivebirthdays were recognized with $50 fines. Harlan Silva fine was increased by$25 for failing to return with a gift from his Hawaiian trip. Michael Boyer's10th anniversary with the club resulted in a $20 fine. Michael also received a$20 fine for having his photo of a sunset on the weather news of DavidHovde, KSBY News Chief Meteorologist. Sandy Lubin was fined $1 for each of his45 years of marriage with Cindi. Trish Hardy was given a warning todetermine if her club anniversary in our website is correct, if is not she willbe fined next week.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Please note:On Tuesday, January 17, 2011 at 4 PM we will meet at Talley Vineyards!

Directions:Take the Grand Avenue exit off 101, travel east through the AG village, follow thesigns toward Lopez Lake for 5 miles, and turn right on Talley Farms Road. As this is one of our vocational visits , ourregular meeting that day will be dark.

Teri Bayus “The Life of a ScreenplayWriter"

Paul Felice introduced Teri, who is an award-winning author witharticles published in a number of regional magazines and local papers, and is the Food and Movie Critic in the SLO City News. However, shequickly explained that although it doesn't pay the rent, her real passion iswriting scripts for screenplays. 10 years ago somebody told her that MorganFreeman was on the phone and she thought he was kidding. It turned out thatMorgan wanted to use one of her screenplays in a movie entitled "Hookah!"She is presently working on a Christmas movie.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

“Courageis what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sitdown and listen."

WinstonChurchill

Program for December 20, 2011: Jack Hardy and Mike Kee Played and Sang Their Favorite Christmas Music

By Dick Dannells

Pres. Ashlea Boyer started the last meeting of the year at 12:43 PM and immediately began catching up on her quota of fines.

FINES:

Jeff Norton was fined $10 for introducing his West Point Cadet Hunter as “My son Homer, is hunt for the holidays."  She levied $20 fines on Arnie Dowdy and Bill Dugan for December 31^th birthdays. Bob Dumouchel was fined $35 for his 33 years of marriage with Robin and Abby Silverstone was fined $20 for his 8 years with Gabriela. Trish Hardy was recognized for her 2 years with the club on December 22. Trish then proceeded to relate the following exchange between God and the Devil:

God, "I hear you have an engineer down there."

Devil, "Yes and he's been great by putting in air-conditioning and keeping our roads in shape."

God, "Well that is all very nice, but we need him up in heaven."

Devil, "Absolutely not and what are you going to do about it, hire an attorney, like you have any up there."

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Don Weber and Joel Conn were the winners in the Paul Harris raffle. Miguel came forward to receive a standing ovation and his Christmas bonus. Mike Fredericks announced that David Dietz, formerly in our club, had just received the terrible news of his daughter's death in an auto accident. Pres. Ashlea reminded everyone that we will be dark on December 27.

Jack Hardy and Mike Kee Played and Sang Their Favorite Christmas Music

Included among the musical selections were: Pretty Little Baby Child, Christmas Like Mama Used To Make It, Blue Christmas, White Christmas, Felice Navidad, It Wasn't His Child, and O Holy Night.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

“For unto us a Child is born,

      Unto us a Son is given;

      And the government will be upon His shoulder.

      And His name will be called

      Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,

      Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."

“Isaiah 9:6-7

New King James Version

Program for December 13, 2011: Craft Talk By Marshall Williams and Rotary Christmas Moment By Paul Toms

By Dick Dannells

With 2 speakers on tap for today's program, Pres. Ashlea Boyer rang the bell promptly at 12:35 PM. She asked all those members to stand to be recognized to be recognized who had any part in the annual Christmas party that was held this year at Pismo Beach Veterans' Memorial Hall.

FINES:

She then proceeded to levy $10 fines on members who took no part in the Christmas party that included: Abby Silverstone, Mark Olson, Jeff Norton, Chuck Anders, John Wakeman, Paul Jones, Greg Baker, Steve Adams, Tommy Thompson, Frank Montesinos, and Paul Toms. Keith Slocum's new car cost him a $25 fine. Steve Adams and Terry Fibich celebrated their 51st and 64th year birthdays on December 16 in December 18 and were assessed $25 and $30 fines, respectively. There were subjected to our rendition of the happy birthday song.  Mark Olson's family trip to Disneyland and returning without any gifts for the club cost him a $50 fine as well as the previous $10 fine for consequently missing the Christmas party. $20 fines were levied on Martha Murphy for giving a wrong answer to a trivial quiz question and on Terry Fibich for questioning the president.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Pres. Ashlea announced that we will be dark on December 27 and on this January 17 in lieu of the club social event at Talley Vineyards starting at 4 PM on that date.

PROGRAM: Craft Talk By Marshall Williams and Rotary Christmas Moment By Paul Toms

Marshall is the BMW general sales manager in Santa Maria. Both sides of his family were in car sales. His grandfather was a car dealer in Jackson, California and was Marshall's mentor until he died in 2002 at the age of 100. His family had dealerships in Davis and Boise Idaho. He graduated from Sacramento high school and held various odd jobs as well as becoming a ski bum between jobs. He came to the 5 Cities and worked his way up to general sales manager at Hyson Johnson that became Perry Ford Lincoln. From there he transferred to his present job and could not be happier. His duties include overseeing the parts, service, sales, new car, used car and financial departments of the dealership. His final comment is that before anyone of us buy a new car to at least see him and he will give some helpful tips.

Paul Toms began his Rotary Christmas moment by stating that if we called him to talk about the commercial side of Christmas we have the wrong person. He then proceeded to tell the "Greatest Story Ever Told."

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

“Don't let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.”

 John Wooden

Program for November 29, 2011: Martha Murphy: The Pismo Beach 5 Cities Rotary Foundation

By Dick Dannells

At 12:38 PM, Past Pres. John Murphy rang the opening bell, as he continued to fill in for vacationing Pres. Ashlea Boyer, and immediately began fining members who did not invite women to their table.

FINES:

The male members at that table receiving a $10 fine were: Marshall Williams, Paul Toms, Jack Hardy, Steve Adams, Greg Baker, Paul Jones, and Jeff Norton. Linda Osty placed her Linda Osty insurance 2012 calendars at each table. This would've cost her $25 except she had the fine-free badge. Sorry John. $20 assessments were levied on Terry Fibich  and Jonathan Rubatzky, who were celebrating their 15th and 3rd years with the club, respectively.  The popular trivial quiz $10 losers were Jack Hardy and Sharon Ellis. John Murphy fined himself $10 for messing up on a quiz question.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Correction: the annual Christmas party will be on Sat., Dec. 10 not 11 as stated in last week's Rotary Forum. The shopping spree will be on Sat., Dec. 3 and the Christmas wrapping party at the Dugan’s home will be on Tues., Dec. 6.

PROGRAM: Martha Murphy: The Pismo Beach 5 Cities Rotary Foundation

Martha, the current president of the Foundation, stated that today's club assembly is to review and explain the purpose of our club’s Rotary Foundation, which has 501c3 status of the IRS tax code. Steve Curry was the 1st Foundation president and served from 2000 to 2003. Don Weber was instrumental in establishing our Foundation. It is hoped that all members would leave in their last will and testament a directive to donate, for example $10,000, to the permanent endowment fund of the Foundation. In the years to come our permanent fund is expected to grow from its present meager $67,000 to a figure the interest and dividends of which will support scholarships and other worthwhile charitable activities. Barry van der Kelen, Executive Director of The San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation was invited to the podium to explain that the Community Foundation has been entrusted to pool our present $67,000 with their $27 million. In that way, we enjoy the benefit of broad investments in a number of conservative mutual funds. He indicated that in the 2008-2009 economic meltdown the average losses for investors were between 39-44%. The Community Foundation losses were only 25-26%. Harlan Silva, our Foundation's treasurer, reported that in addition to the permanent fund we have about $10,000 in the unrestricted general fund that is used to support local charities. This is in contrast to the Rotary International Foundation that is international in scope. The main source of revenues for our Foundation is the annual golf tournament that had been held in October and is now going to be held in May. Last year's tournament netted $9300 out of a gross of $23,000.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

“Things turn out best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out."  

Wooden, John

Program for November 22, 2011: Doug MacMillan: Culinary Secrets

By Dick Dannells

Past Pres. Mark Olson, filling in for the continuing vacationer, Pres. Ashlea Boyer, rang the opening bell at 12:40 PM and immediately asked Gary Bayus, who had previously presided over last week's meeting, to stand to have his fines increased.

FINES:

For Gary's almost vintage Jaguar, he was fined an additional $30 and for his achievement of completing the master PRLS, he was fined an additional $10. Unfortunately for Mark, Gary had the fine-free badge so Mark absorbed the fine, unlike having Pres. Ashlea take the hit. Mike Fredericks was fined $10 for his interruption and an additional $20 for his club anniversary of 11 years.  Mark then revived the trivial quiz with the following $10 losers: Harlan Silva, Mike Fredericks, Bill Dugan, Brendan Reitsma, Andrew Goodwin, Steve Curry and Paul Toms. John Murphy was fined $25 for being the only Rotarian present having a blue Hawaiian shirt.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

It was announced that the Pismo Beach Rotary Foundation's annual golf tournament will be held at San Luis Obispo country club on Friday, May 18, 2012. Martha Murphy distributed the sign-up sheet for the annual Christmas party on Saturday, December 11.

PROGRAM: Guitar Doug MacMillan: Culinary Secrets

Doug is passionate about cooking, soccer and Rotary, in that order.  The original Rosa' s restaurant, which is now owned by Doug and his father, Bill, was established in Dinuba, California in 1961. Because they could not get a license to serve beer and wine, the restaurant was moved to Visalia, California in 1962. When Doug was 7 years old, they opened a restaurant in Bakersfield. After some heated arguments between his father and mother, they finally decided to move to Pismo Beach in 1988, where they have been an institution ever since. Doug originally thought for his program he would prepare one of his well-known recipes. However, the logistics of having an open fire in our meeting room would probably not have passed the fire code. Instead, he treated us all to taste of roasted chestnuts and figs soaked in balsamic vinegar. The secret is to add orange juice before reducing the vinegar, i.e., boiling off 50% of the volume before soaking the chestnuts.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

"My cooking is so bad that my kids thought Thanksgiving was to celebrate Pearl Harbor." -- Phyllis Diller

“Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful to him, and bless his name." Psalm 100:4

Program for November 15, 2011: Guitar and Vocals Provided By John Wakeman and Heather Moran

By Dick Dannells

Pres. Elect Gary Bayus, filling in for vacationing Pres. Ashlea Boyer, rang the opening bell at 12:42 PM.

FINES:

Kathy Fissouri and Martha Murphy were assessed $30 each for their respective birthdays last week and on this date. Frank Montesinos had a 32nd wedding anniversary that did not cost him anything because he came up with the 1st is correct answer and then a 2nd correct answer on a double or nothing challenge. Gary Bayus finded himself a whopping $5 for buying a brand-new car and another $5 for recently achieving the master PRLS, which now makes him fully qualified to be our next year's president. Trish Hardy placed advertisements at each table on her chiropractic services. For that this, she would've had to pay a $30 fine except that she had the fine-free badge. As a result, Gary passed this fee onto Pres. Ashlea.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Martha Murphy reported that this year's Christmas party is not on Sunday, but on Saturday, December 10, so please mark your calendars accordingly. Travel gifts were provided by John and Martha Murphy for their Australian and New Zealand trip and Don Weber for his trip to China.  Deborah Handley brought the club up to date on her surgery to replace a rotator cup in her shoulder. Linda Osty requested members who have not signed up to do so now for the Paul Harris Fellow raffle. Steve Curry presented a Paul Harris Fellow to Arnie Dowdy in honor of his late mother. Steve also presented a check for $878 to the president of the Arroyo Grande High School FFA. The 2 officers of FFA gave a brief summary of their activities for the year. Sharon Ellis, Linda Osty and Steve Curry were given praise for their assistance during last week's Paul Harris Fellow program.

PROGRAM: Guitar and Vocals Provided By John Wakeman and Heather Moran

[The music was fantastic and caused this editor to tear up.]

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

"No man was ever endowed with a right without being at the same time saddled with a responsibility." --Gerald W. Johnson

Program for November 8, 2011: Special Program Honoring Paul Harris Fellow Recipients

By Dick Dannells

Before our sit-down banquet-type lunch, Pres. Ashlea Boyer called the special program to order with an invocation by Michael Boyer, the Pledge of Allegiance led by Linda Osty and the introduction of guests.

During the meal, Steve Curry came forward to review the recent international projects that our club has engaged in through matching grants from the Rotary International Foundation. He stated that since our club was chartered in 1984, we have given over $300,000 to the Paul Harris Fellow of the Rotary Foundation.

Steve's presentation was followed up by presentations by Linda Osty, Arnie Dowdy and Terry Fibich.

Linda Osty presented the Paul Harris Fellow awards to the recipients present during the program.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

“Good friends are like stars, you don't always see them, but you know they are there."

Program for November 1, 2011: Gordon Snider:  “Venice Italy At Dawn”

Pres. Ashlea Boyer began auctioning off the fine-free badge after the opening bell at 12:40 PM.

FINES:

Michael Boyer made the highest bid of $40 for the fine-free badge. Mark Olson received a total of $60 in fines as a result of his birthday and the return of his satchel that was left at Vantana Grill. Sandy Lubin's fine was $68, a dollar for each of his years on earth. Sharon Ellis and Linda Osty have each been in the club for 14 years and received the same fine of $20.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Pres. Ashlea announced that Cliff Nagler has taken over the position of Club Service Chair. Melissa McCreery in her capacity as Community Service Chair handed Effie McDermott a check in the amount necessary to light up the Price House. Melissa encouraged all members to come to the ‘turn on the lights’ party at 6 PM on December 2. This past weekend a social event was held to honor the GSC team from South Korea. Arnie Dowdy and Abby Silverstone presented travel gifts to Pres. Ashlea. Sean Schuur’s father, Doug, died suddenly last Sunday and the Memorial service will be held on Friday, November 4 at 3 PM. Our November 8 meeting will be the Paul Harris award celebration. The Dugan's again have agreed to hold the Christmas wrapping party on December 6 in the evening. This The shopping spree will be on Saturday, December 10 and the Christmas party will be held on December 11. Connie O’Henley reported on the activities of the Arroyo Grande High School Interact Club, where the big push for the last half the year will be international service including the funding for shelter boxes.

PROGRAM FOR NOVEMBER 1, 2011: GORDON SNIDER:  “VENICE ITALY AT DAWN”

Pres. Ashlea introduced author, Gordon Snider, who was written a new book called "Venice Lost" set in Venice during the 1700s when Venice held festivals that lasted from 8 weeks to 6 months with all kinds of frivolities. The Doge’s Palace in Venice is a combination of the White House, Congress, CIA and FBI combined. The reign of the Doges is ended when Napoleon conquered Venice in 1797. Gordon then showed slides of his recent trip to Venice. All of his photos were taken at dawn before any of the Venetian's and multitudes of tourists were out and about.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

“Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved."

Helen Keller

Program for October 18, 2011: W.  David, Conn– “What Is Up At Cal Poly?" 

by Dick Dannells

Pres. Ashlea started the meeting at 12: 36 PM and began guest introductions.

FINES:

Marina Mathews was congratulated and fined $45 for her 15 years with the Club.  Doug McMillan’s local TV channel 4 promotion of Pismo Beach’s Clam Festival resulted in a $25 fine. Pres. Ashlea activated the trivia quiz: the $20 losers included Michael Boyer and John Wakeman.

.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Linda Osty again circulated a signup sheet for pay $50 for a chance to win a $1000 Paul Harris Fellow. Pres. Ashlea invited everyone, who can not make the entire district conference in Carpenteria, attend this Sunday’s (10-23) luncheon at a cost of only $10.  The Grover Beach Exploration Station is holding a special fundraising event at 2: 30 p.m. on November 6, 2011.   On Tuesday, Nov. 8^th is our special Paul Harris awards luncheon with RSVPs to Charla Anderson.

PROGRAM:   W.  David, Conn– “What Is Up At Cal Poly?" 

Joel Conn introduced his father, who gave a PowerPoint presentation on Cal Poly.  David is currently the associate Vice President for Inclusive Excellence and the Director of Ombudsman Service.  He is also the Diversity Officer whose mission is to make sure all students leaving the University are prepared to interact with all peoples on earth.  There has been a big drop in the percentage of the state budget going to higher education, but an increase in K – 14 education budget.  State support to state colleges and universities has decreased while tuition college tuition and fees have increased dramatically.  California had a long tradition of paying a great proportion of the cost for higher education, but that no longer is the case.  As a consequence of the lack of state support, the University has had to drop the number of students they can take.  From a high of 18,000, they now have around 16,000 enrolled in the University.  Because Cal Poly has almost 70% of the student body in engineering and other technical curricula, the cost per student credit hour is much higher than in colleges having liberal arts curricula. Cal Poly’s key principles are: (1) student success; (2) learn by doing; (3) excellence; (4) comprehensive Polytechnic University (placing greater weight on a broad range of disciplines).

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

Winston Churchill said, "History will be kind to me, because I intend to write it."

Program for October 11, 2011: Rodney Badcock: "NEXT INTENT Designs and Builds Really Cool Stuff"

by Dick Dannells

After the opening bell at 12: 40 PM, Pres. Ashlea Boyer called upon Bill Dugan to introduce the guests at his table.  Bill proceeded to present his travel gift from Bora Bora of what looked like a bra made out of highly painted coconut shells.

FINES

Charla and J. T. Anderson celebrated the 21st wedding anniversary and received a $40 fine. Mark and Amanda Olson have been married for 9 years and he was assessed $30. Keith Slocum forgot his job as a greeter, which cost him $25.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Abbey Silverstone reported on his close call in diagnosing macular degeneration of a 2nd eye in time to save it. He suggested that anyone over 50 that is worried about such a disease should put a dot in the middle of lined paper with lines running both horizontal and perpendicular. If you have any trouble focusing on the dot, you should see an ophthalmologist. On October 26, 2011 from 5-7 PM, there is going to a joint social activity of the Rotary clubs of Group 10 at Patterson Realty , 444 Higuera Street in San Luis Obispo. Charla Anderson announced that on Tuesday during the regular meeting time on November 8, the Paul Harris awards ceremonial luncheon will be held and she encouraged everyone to dress appropriately. Sharon Ellis reminded everybody of this coming weekend’s Pismo Beach Clam Festival.

PROGRAM:   Rodney Badcock: "NEXT INTENT Designs And Builds Cool Stuff"

Michael Boyer introduced our guest speaker who proceeded to present a short video of a passenger in a spy plane that traveled to the edge of space at 70,000 feet.   Rodney then gave a short background of how he found himself designing and manufacturing various parts for the space program. When Apollo 11 was launched, he became fascinated with the whole concept of outer space and founded NEXT INTENT, a high tech machining and mechanical engineering company. He and his team designed Vibration Isolation Flexures that are critical components of every space launch as well as the Hubble space telescope.  He passed among those present 4 parts that are used in the space program including a wheel for the Mars Rover.  He stressed that the benefits received by society from our space funded programs are incredible.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:  

“Pay no attention to critics. A statue has never been erected in their honor.”

Program for September 20, 2011: District Governor Wade Nomura and His Wife, Roxanne, Made Their Official Visit to Our Club

by Dick Dannells

FINES:

After the opening bell at 12: 34 PM, Pres. Ashlea Boyer went right to work in assessing fines to Mark Olson for his new house and Trish Hardy for coming in 3rd place at the Pismo Beach golf tournament last Saturday and for making an announcement on the Arroyo Grande harvest festival this coming Saturday. Kathy Fissouri exchanged her red badge for her permanent blue badge and was assessed the usual $25 fee.

NEW MEMBER INDUCTION:

Marshall Williams was inducted into our club with the assistance of the District Gov. A long-term resident of this area, Marshall is currently a sales executive for BMW in Santa Maria.

PROGRAM:   District Governor Wade Nomura and His Wife, Roxanne, Made Their Official Visit to Our Club

Wade is a Cal Poly graduate so he feels right at home in this area. He is a charter member and the past president of the Rotary Club of Carpinteria Morning that began at the same time Wade became a member of Rotary. Wade emphasized this years RI theme "Reach Within To Embrace Humanity."  He really did not feel like he was Rotarian for the 1st 2 years because his club took part in no more than the usual club activities. A visit from a district representative who explained to him about funded projects resulted in a trip to a small town in Mexico. There he helped in an installation of an entire new water system. One and half years later he came back to the same small town and was approached by a man who told Wade that he had changed this man's life with the new water system. It was at this point that Wade felt like a true Rotarian. Wade then found himself really involved in Rotary. As a child, Wade had a mild case of polio and when there came a time to work on Polio Plus, he jumped at a chance to go to India for 5 days to help immunize more than 900,000 children under the age of 5 years old. Prior to becoming District Gov., he tried to get his club involved in a group study exchange program.  He was spinning his wheels until the president of the Taft Rotary club put him immediately in touch with a Rotarian from Korea trying to get started on a group study exchange program. From this contact, Wade was able to visit Korea this past spring. Wade closed his presentation by stating that Rotary offers 3 gifts: (1) a gift to change lives; (2) a gift to realize without you a life would not be changed; and (3) a gift to share with others the experience of changing lives.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:  “I would be unstoppable if I could just get started.”

Program for September 6, 2011: Frank Cowan: “The MAKE-A-WISH Foundation”

At 12:45 PM with the ringing of the bell, Pres. Ashlea Boyer began auctioning off the fine-free badge.

FINES:

After some fast and furious bidding, John Murphy walked away with the fine-free badge at a cost of $65. Jack Hardy stopped bidding at $60 and it paid off because his 59th birthday only resulted in a $50 fine. Steve Curry was penalized $10 for heckling. Recently Mike and Jeannie Fredericks and 2 other couples celebrated a combined total of 100 years of marriage. Their 33rd anniversary this coming Friday resulted in a $32 fine. Abby Silverstone has been with the club 4 years as of September 11 during Sharon Ellis's presidency and for this he received a $20 assessment. Gary Bayus was assessed $20 for his completion of basic PERLS and his certificate. A warning goes out to Jeff Norton as Pres. Ashlea has his lost Pismo Beach Chief of Police pin, which will cost him when he returns.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

At the District Gov.'s barbecue at Steve Curry's ranch, they'll be pony rides if enough kids indicate to Steve that they will be coming to this event. Thursday, September 8, a board meeting will be held at the Murphy's home in Pismo Beach. The Paul Harris dinner will be held during the regular luncheon meeting during the last half of October. KassieFissouri turned in her red badge and will get her blue member badge when it is returned from the factory.

Program for September 6, 2011: Frank Cowan: “The MAKE-A-WISH Foundation”

Brendan  Reitsma introduced Frank, who began by giving us the following numbers and asked us what they mean: 45, 193,000, 25,000, 1000, 6500 and 00. Every 45 min. Make-A-Wish grants a wish to a child with a life-threatening illness, usually terminal. The foundation grants such a wish to a child having such an illness that can communicate its wishes. The cut off is a child just short of 18 years old. 193,000 is the total number of wishes that have been granted in its 31 years of existence. 25,000 is the number of volunteers in the program. 1000 wishes have been granted in the Tri-County area of San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Santa Clara counties. 6500 is the number of dollars per wish.  00 is the cost to the child and family for fulfilling the wish. There are still volunteers needed in this area to help with the families of the child to be granted a wish. Up to about 6 months is is required from the time the child is selected to the actual wish be granted.  The actual travel arrangements are handled by travel professionals

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

“Taste is not only a part and index of morality, it is the only morality. The first, and last, and closest trial question to any living creature is ‘What do you like?’ Tell me what you like, I'll tell you what you are."

John Ruskin

Program for August 30, 2011: Kathy Fissori: “Craft Talk”

At 12:40 PM Pres. Ashlea Boyer rang the bell and after the introductions, she began catching up on member fines.

FINES:

Terry Fibich had the honor of the 1st fine, which was $25 because of his apparent inattention to a guest introduction at another table. Later in the program, he was fined for a news photo of Terry driving an old fire truck on the hundredth anniversary of Arroyo Grande. Trish Hardy's birthday was recognized with a $25 fine and the happy birthday song. Paul Jones was recognized, but no fine as he had the fine-free badge.  Marina and Randy Matthews' 43rd wedding anniversary was recognized with a $40 fine. Brian Portesi's 4th wedding anniversary resulted in a $20 fine Paul Felice's 1st anniversary and his blatant advertising resulted in a $40 assessment.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Brendan  Reitsma brought travel gifts from his Catalina Island vacation. Steve Adams will be looking for volunteers to help at the pie eating contest during Arroyo Grande's Harvest Festival on 23-24 of September. The evening of September 20 should be on everyone's calendar for the District Gov.'s visit at Steve Curry's ranch. This will be a family of Rotary event so we are asked to bring children (if we happen to have any to bring). A sign-up sheet was circulated requesting members to indicate what food items they will bring: hors d'oeuvres, salad or dessert.  Martha Murphy requested members turn in the names of those that would like to serve on the Pismo Beach Rotary Foundation board. Remember the new member mixer Tuesday, August 30, from 5:30 to 7 PM at the Gather Wine Bar.  Pres. Ashlea read a thank you note from Big Brothers and Big Sisters.

PROGRAM: Kathy Fissori: “Craft Talk”

Kathy is from Pismo Beach and her family has had a long history in this area. Her family were the founders of Longs & Fissouri pharmacy on the corner of Pomeroy and Dollivar streets in Pismo Beach.  Her uncle still lives in their original house on Bello Street at the start of Price Canyon Road. After receiving her degree in dental hygiene in San Francisco, she left the area for 30 years to work as a dental hygienist in Hollister. After having hand surgery, which prevented her from continuing to work in her chosen field and the lure of Pismo Beach, she was called her back to Pismo, where she is now involved in real estate with Keller Williams Realty. She specializes in performing concierge services for senior citizens who are looking to move into other types of accommodations that provide support services.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

Paul Toms: "Forget health-food, at my age I need all the preservatives I can get. Old age is when you have lots on the ball, but too old to bounce it."

WADE NOMURA is a charter member and the past president of the Rotary Club of Carpinteria Morning. During his tenure as president, the Rotary Club of Carpinteria Morning was named the Best Small Club in District 5240. Wade is a Multiple Paul Harris Fellow, Paul Harris  Society Charter member, Rotary Foundation Benefactor, Bequest Society member and Major Donor.  Wade has served on the district level as a Group Representative, District Vocational Service Director, District Club Service Director, Mid Terms Chair

Wade is the only PRLS instructor certified to teach all the Basic PRLS modules and all the Master PRLS series; 1 and 2 (Extemporaneous and Planned Speaking), Master PRLS 3 (Facilitation Skills), MPRLS 4 (Situational Leadership) and MPRLS 5 (Project and Business Planning). Wade has also presented PRLS in District 4160, Mexico. 

Wade has also been on 17 international projects missions, including an NID to India, where he has a special passion, having had polio as a child. Wade shares Rotary with his wife and childhood sweetheart, Roxanne. Roxanne was President of the Rotary Club of Carpinteria Morning before Wade. Wade and Roxanne have a son and a daughter,  plus a much loved grandson all of whom have been honored with Paul Harris Fellows.

Program for August 23, 2011: Lance Kenny “I Care International”

After the opening bell at 12:43 PM, Pres. Ashlea Boyer announced that 38 years has passed since her birth and she served champagne, sparkling cider and cupcakes to celebrate. The members enthusiastically sang her the HB song.

FINES:

In honor of the occasion, Pres. Ashlea did fine all members $38, except Kari Ziegler who guessed her correct age. For that reason, she forgave fining anyone for the rest the meeting.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

John Wakeman out bid everyone to purchase tickets at $50 to attend the San Luis Obispo Children's Museum and Monterey Aquarium.  Abby Silverstone, Joel Conn and Debbie Handley brought in travel gifts. Pres. Ashlea reminded everyone of the new member mixer Tuesday, August 30, from 5:30 to 7 PM at the Gather Wine Bar in the Arroyo Grande Village.

PROGRAM: Lance Kenny “I Care International”

I Care International, Inc. is a non-religious, non-political, non-discriminatory organization that helps others improve their quality of life by providing better vision and health to people in need from all walks of life. Twice a year, teams that include 5 or 6 ophthalmologists go to treat 400 to 900 people per day in remote areas of impoverished countries. For example, in their last trip to Honduras, 600 people lined up one and a half days before their team got there to be assured of treatment. After treatment, women could then go back to their livelihood of sewing and children could go back to school because of their improved vision. In a trip to the Amazon, they had to call in the local police for crowd control because the demand for services greatly exceeded their ability to handle them. In some of their trips they coordinate with Rotary to achieve their goal. Lance, a professional photographer, then presented a slideshow of the many for faces of those that he came in contact with during his many travels with I Care.

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

Paul Toms: "It is good to grow old," said a 104-year-old woman, "because there's no peer pressure."

Ronald Reagan: "Government's view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases: If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it."

George Burns, US actor & comedian (1896 - 1996): "I was always taught to respect my elders and I've now reached the age when I don't have anybody to respect."

Program for August 16, 2011: No speaker today

Pres. Ashlea Boyer rang the bell a little late at 12:53 PM, because we were meeting in the Custom House in Avila Beach and our speaker did not show up

FINES:

John Wakeman and Jonathan Rubatzky were recognized for their 33rd and 54th birthdays with fines of $35 and $55, respectively. Don and Jackie Weber celebrated their 46th wedding anniversary with a trip to San Francisco last Saturday and were recognized with a $46 fee. Gary Bayus and Dick Dannells had five-year and 20 year club anniversaries and were fined $20 and $40, respectively. Brendan Reitsma and Debbie Handley were warned that they had until next meeting to bring in their travel gifts for their respective trips to Ireland and Catalina Island or be fined.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Pres. Ashlea reminded everyone that Tuesday evening, September 20, 2011 is the District Gov. potluck at Steve Curry's ranch. Mark Olson stated that each member could bring in one a potential member during the Rotary membership month of August and the club will pick up the lunch tab. Pres. Ashlea invited members to attend a social event at Gather Wine bar in  Arroyo Grande village with special emphasis on bringing a potential member on Tuesday, August 30, 2011, 5:30-8PM.

PROGRAM: No program

Since the speaker could not come to provide the program, there was a discussion of the upcoming Summer Sizzle.  Michael Boyer said that the only alcoholic beverages available will be beer and wine including sangria. Gary Bayus and Heather Muran gave a rundown on the live auction items that will be available. Connie O'Henley stressed that with 50 tickets still outstanding, she absolutely has to have them sold or in her hands, now! John Wakeman volunteered to pick up the sheet cakes at Costco.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

"The more you say, the less people remember." Ben Franklin

There is a scene early in Gone With The Wind where the girls are taking a nappy poo and the camera focuses in on a sign, which reads.

“Do not squander time. That is the stuff life is made of.”

Program for August 9, 2011: Dan Carpenter “History Center of San Luis Obispo County (formerly San Luis Obispo County Historical Society)”

Pres. Ashlea Boyer rang the bell about 12: 5 PM and had the following members introduce the guests at their respective tables: Kari Ziegler, Joel Conn, Martha Murphy, Connie O’Henley, Doug McMillan, John Wakeman and Arnie Dowdy.

FINES:

Abby Silverstone's birthday resulted in a $50 fine. John Wakeman's going back for lunch seconds and because his wife is expecting their 2nd child resulting in a $20 assessment. Arnie Dowdy was recognized for his 27th wedding anniversary to Marie. Bill Racine was fined $25 for the top honors he recently received at Robobank bank.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Connie O’Henley urged all members that haven't turned in their money and stubs for the Summer Sizzle should have them turned in at the next meeting to be held at Custom House in Avila Beach. There is only 10 days before the big event.

PROGRAM: Dan Carpenter “History Center of San Luis Obispo County

As a 5th generation Californian on both sides of his family, Dan has had a long history of interest in the history of the County. Presently Dan serves as the Financial Dir. of the Center and stated that they have been really feeling the pinch in the downturn in the economy.  He then turned the rest of the meeting over to Erin Newman, the baby Their mission is to promote: (1) understanding and appreciating San Luis Obispo County history; (2) collecting historical artifacts; (3) maintaining the Carnegie Library Museum; 4) maintaining the Dallidet adobe house and gardens; (5) rotating various exhibits such as the French connection, art, wine and exploration in San Luis Obispo County starting October 15, 2011. They have over 400 members including 3 student interns, which is the position Erin held as her 1st experience with the center. If it was not for volunteers which put in 4500 hours last year, the center would not exist in its present form. You can take online video walking tours by going to their website at http://historycenterslo.org.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

"I think this is the most extraordinary collection of talent, of human knowledge, that has ever been gathered at the White House - with the possible exception of when Thomas Jefferson dined alone." John F. Kennedy

"I predict future happiness for Americans if they can prevent the government from wasting the labors of the people under the pretense of taking care of them."

Thomas Jefferson.

Program for August 2, 2011: Alan Reese “Community Action Partnership Programs in San Luis Obispo County”

Pres. Ashlea Boyer announced that it is one down (and 11 months to go) as she rang the bell at 12: 43 PM.

FINES:

As this is Paul Jones' 62nd anniversary with Joy, Paul outbid the field for the fine-free badge at $60. Joel Conn's 30th birthday on August 3 was recognized with $1 fine for each of his years on earth. This is the same birthdate as Greg Baker who also received a $30 fine for his 61 years.  Chuck Anders and Charla Anderson  were fined $20 each for their 4 and 14 years with the club, respectively. July 14 marked Martha and John Murphy's 21st anniversary with a $28 fine and a $50 fine for their new Dodge with all the bells and whistles. California Assembly member Katcho Achadjian was fined $50 for his recent vote on the budget.  Deborah Handley just returned from a great trip to Ireland and a cruise ship back. She reported she would bring in her travel gift at the next meeting to avoid a fine.  A travel gift from Joel Conn was received after his trip to New Haven, Connecticut and New York City. Johnny Ham donated " Good Time Girls of the Alaska-Yukon Gold Rush," by Lael Morgan for his travel gift to that state.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

John Murphy announced that for the new members benefit, our club banners are available for exchange when members make-up at out-of-the-area clubs, especially during foreign travel.  Paul Felice announced that the Rotary foundation annual golf tournament will be held in the spring of 2012 and circulated a golf committee sign-up sheet. Pres. Ashlea announced that the travel gifts will be appropriately combined for the silent auction at the Summer Sizzle. Those travel gifts that do not bring at least $25 will result in an appropriate fine to the traveler. Heather Muran urged everyone to bring 2 bottles of wine for the Summer Sizzle and to turn in silent auction items no later than next Tuesday.

PROGRAM: Alan Reese “Community Action Partnership Programs in San Luis Obispo County”

Heather Muran introduced Alan who stated that Economic Opportunity Commission of San Luis Obispo was the previous name for Community Action Partnership (CHP).  Each year CHP serves 43,000 persons across San Luis Obispo County and nine other central and southern California counties. CHP helps individuals and families achieve and maintain self sufficiency through the following services: adult day center child, youth and family services including Head Start; family support services; energy and weatherization; free tax preparation; health services; and homeless services. Head Start of San Luis Obispo County has provided underprivileged children since 1963 with a child development program for children from birth to 5 years old. For an example, prior to enrolling in the program, a migrant worker’s child might be left in the car throughout the day while his parents worked the fields.  If you would like more information on any of these services of the CHP, call 805-544-4355.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

"Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power."  -- Abraham Lincoln

Program for July 26, 2011: Connie O'Henley “Clark Center for the Performing Arts”

On good authority I heard that Pres. Ashlea Boyer enjoyed her camping trip to celebrate Michael's 41^st birthday, so that she was in good humor as she rang the bell at 12: 45 PM.  

FINES:

Consequently she seemed to go light on fines. Cliff Nagler's 62nd birthday and trip to New York City only resulted in a $45 fine. IPP Mark Olson received a $20 fine for not removing Pres. Washington's photo in place of his photo in the club webpage. Gary Bayus did not have a business address in the Rotary webpage and was fined $20. Kathy Fissori was not fined at all, but was given a warning to make sure that her club webpage is up-to-date.  Martha Murphy's trip to San Diego without returning with a travel gift did not result in a fine, because it was assumed that she still had the fine-free badge.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Sean Schuur reported that the Santa Maria County Fair average price for the animals sold rose from last year's $4/pound to $8/lb. because of a special benefactor’s donation. Paul Jones gave a demonstration of his sales pitch that makes him the leader in Summer Sizzle ticket sales.

PROGRAM: Connie O'Henley “Clark Center for the Performing Arts”

Connie began by explaining what is new at the Clark Center.  The construction of the new office wing has been completed except she will not be able to move into her new office on the 2nd floor until the finishing touches are in  place.  The special venues theater, which has been around for some time, is ideal for events that expect an audience between 80 and 120 compared with the over 600 capacity for the main auditorium. Connie's duties as director of the Clark Ctr. Association have now been  increased because she has taken over the facility management functions that once were under Lucia Mar School District’s control. Sandy Lubin has relinquished his presidency of the Clark Ctr., Association to Stephen Hughes. The number of performances per year has risen from 170 in their 1st season of 2005-06 to a high of 319 in 2009-10 and 305 in  year that just ended. Coast National Bank continues to be their premier sponsor. Collectively, the money raised from their sponsors help them maintain the center, replace equipment, sponsor new programs, give grants to provide cultural arts scholarships and many other items for which their budget would not otherwise provide. Just a few of the upcoming performances and eventsfor the rest of the year include: Pink Champagne; The Kingston Trio; Cherish The Ladies; Abby Road; Ain't Misbehavin'; Stunt Dog Experience; and Rudolf Budginas in Concert.  She played a DVD giving excerpts for all of the events and performances for the entire year.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

"The purpose of life is to discover your gift. The meaning of life is to give your gift away."

— David Viscott

Program for July 19, 2011: Michael Boyer “Rotary International Convention in New Orleans, LA”

Pres. Ashlea Boyer was in very good spirits when she started the meeting at 12: 45 PM.  Perhaps it was because she was looking forward to a camping trip to celebrate a certain birthday (see below).

FINES:

Sunday, July 24 is Michael Boyer's 41^st birthday for which he was fined $44.  Trish  Hardy was fined $10 for a bad paradoxical pun. Gary Bayus' wife made a movie and he sold his office building in the Five Cities and moved to a new office in San Luis Obispo.  For these three occurrences he was fined $60. Sandy Lubin was fined $50 for failing to pick up his perfect attendance award and for his trip to Hawaii. Steve Adams also failed to pick up his perfect attendance award and was fined $20.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

San Luis Obispo Daybreak club is having a golf tournament on August 15 at Avila Beach Country Club and  a wine raffle as a major fund raising event.  Jack Hardy requested that each member donate $20  to Captive Hearts so this charitable organization that serves addicted and abused women can receive matching funds. Heather Muran requested that all members provide a bottle or 2 of wine having a value of $20 to the Summer Sizzle live auction. See Mike Frederick to turn in the money and ticket stubs after you have sold your Summer Sizzle tickets.

PROGRAM:  Michael Boyer “2011 RI Convention in New Orleans, LA”

Michael and Ashlea Boyer along with 19,000 other Rotarians attended must this convention on 21 – 25 May. They were both very impressed with the city and with the well-organized convention from its 400 booths in Friendship Hall to the large Rotary floats in the parade. They particularly enjoyed the Sunday night party put on by 5240 District Governor Wade Nomura. For recreation, they went on a  20 mile bike ride around the city. He pointed out that Hurricane Katrina caused the water level of  Lake Pontchartrain to raise from 3 feet below sea level to 28 above and 30% of the original inhabitants of the city still have not come back. They enjoyed the restaurants and  nightlife venues such as the Spotted Cat and the other music clubs, Pat O'Brien's, and Yo Mamas for the best hamburgers in town.  They enjoyed Bill Gates speech although they had to contend to watching him on giant monitor since they were much too far away to have a good view of him in person. The Gates Foundation has or will be giving at least a couple billion dollars to eradicate polio from the face of the earth.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

“Know how to listen, and you will profit even from those who talk badly.”

Plutarch - Greek biographer & moralist (46 AD - 120 AD)

Program for July 5, 2011: Club Assembly

Newly elected Pres. Ashlea began her 1st meeting at 12: 44 PM. She stated that since her time in office is so short she will not be counting the days off as did Immediate Past Pres. (IPP) Mark.

FINES:

She called upon Rick Castro to stand and expressed the regrets of all the members on his decision to leave our club as an active member and the presidency of the Arroyo Grande Community Hospital to go to a bigger hospital in Eugene Oregon.  She assessed a $65 fine on him for leaving us. Jack and Sheila Hardy celebrated their 39th anniversary on July 9 and received a $40 fine. Mike and Duskie Kee celebrated their 2nd anniversary on the July 11 and were fined $20. The only other fine of the day was one for $20 on her for failing to call on a couple of her directors.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Michael Boyer, Martha Murphy, and our club were mentioned in the latest Rotary International magazine for our four-way test essay contest and especially the essay on bullying.  Gary Bayus talked up Summer Sizzle ticket sales. Heather Moran stated that all silent auction and live auction items should be in by August 2. Auction items can be dropped off at Coast National Bank. Martha Murphy thanked everyone who worked on IPP Mark's demotion and singled out Joel Conn as Mr. Trebek, Michael Boyer, John Murphy, Brandon Reitsma, Mike Fredericks, Marina Matthews, Paul Jones, Paul Toms, Sean Schuur, Mark Olson's dad Ron Olson and, last but not least, the pair of nuns played by Don Weber and John Wakeman. Sean Schuur announced on Saturday, July 16 at the Santa Maria County Fair we again will be bidding on animals so that the FFA members will receive a fair price for the animals they show.

PROGRAM: Club Assembly

Pres. Ashlea began the assembly by calling upon all of her directors to give a brief comment on the work they will be doing for the club this year. Mark Olson as membership chair will be promoting Rotary membership month of August in which the club will pay for one the lunch for each potential member that a member brings as a guest during that month. President-elect Gary Bayus will be working on the items we need to win the district awards. Club Secretary Martha Murphy emphasized bringing her our slips when we make up for missed meetings. Vocational Service Director Joel Conn asked anyone who wished to give a craft talk to contact him. International Service Director Steve Curry reported that he will be working on a total package of $16,000 to be used to refurbish a South African school including its cafeteria. Public Relations Director Michael Boyer has already been working by getting an article in Yahoo news on Pres. Ashlea's presidency. Club Service Director Heather Moran is looking for speakers for the coming year. New Generations Service Director Brandon Reitsma will continue to coordinate the activities of Interact, Rotoract, RYLA, the primary grade literacy program and the four-way test essay contest.

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

A young 1st Lieut. in the Army was promoted to Capt. and was given a new office, a new desk, a new chair and a secretary in the hall. She came in and told him that a Private was here to see him. The captain picked up his phone and he began chatting, "Oh yes, General Petraeus, it was so nice of you to see me on such short notice before you take over your CIA duties. If you ever need my help, call at any time." Then turning to the Lieut., he says, What can I do for you?” The private says, "I'm here to hook up your new phone."

My country, 'tis of thee,

Sweet land of liberty,

Of thee I sing;

Land where my fathers died,

Land of the pilgrims' pride,

From ev'ry mountainside

Let freedom ring!

Samuel Francis Smith

Program for June 14, 2011: Chuck Anders, President of Strategic Initiatives-Club Survey

2011-2012 President Ashley Boyer took the podium in Pres. Mark's absence and rang the bell at 12:45 PM.

FINES:

She immediately got into the swing of things by fining Vicki Pennisi $25 for not recognizing that she had a guest at her table.  She noted that John Wakeman was not wearing his name badge and fined him $20.  Abby Silverstone was fined $13 just because he had that much left in his fine account. Steve Adams was fined $20 for his 19th wedding anniversary with Rose. Jeff and Kitty Norton will have been married 23 years on June 18, which cost him just $25.  Vicki Pennisi was fined the same amount for her 22nd anniversary with Joe. Incoming President Ashley remembered that Steve Curry won the fine-free badge so she merely recognized him for his 65 years and, at Steve's request, permitted John Murphy to lead us all in the 1st birthday song of the year.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Martha Murphy reminded everybody of Pres. Mark's demotion dinner on June 28 as well as a few other things. Heather Muran announced that the silent auction items for Summer Sizzle can be dropped off at Coast National Bank and that forms for these items can be found on her e-mail on this topic. Keith Slocum and Paul Jones came forward to present donation checks to Mountain Brook Church and Teen Challenge, respectively.

Program: Chuck Anders, President of Strategic Initiatives-Club Survey

After everyone had the necessary device in their hands, Chuck proceeded with the survey. Representative answers include the fact that: we are 40% female and 60% male; 18% of the members have more 20 or more years with the club and 12% have 16-20 year; 3% are less than 30 years of age, 9% are between 30-40, 16% are between 40-49, 28% are between 50-59, 28% are between 60 and 69 and 16 % are 70 and over; 36% are past presidents and 64% are not; 45% agreed that are present Rotary meeting time is best; 74% agreed that after work is the best time to do a vocational visit at a winery; the top 4 program topics for future meetings are travel (50%), small business (50%), community activities (47%),  and social and other 47%); the top 2 answers to the question of what is the ideal club size are 65-69 at 34% and 60-64 at 25%; 29% believe that we should have more attorneys in the club; 86% plan to attend Summer Sizzle; and, as of this date, 45% have yet to sell any tickets to this event.

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

An emaciated man named Smith came into a bar and ordered a stiff drink.  A tough looking biker sat beside him, grabbed his drink and with one gulp finished it off.  He said to Smith, "What are you going to do about it?" "Well, I've had a very bad day. I have been a failure all my life and I just lost my job so I came in here to kill myself by poisoning my drink. So how's your day going?"

“Criticism is something we can avoid easily by saying nothing, doing nothing, and being nothing” Aristotle

Program for May 31, 2011: Arroyo Grande High School FFA Highlights and the Arroyo Grande High School Scholarship Winners

Promptly at 12:45PM, Pres. Mark rang the bell and proceeded to call Paul Filice to receive his blue badge that took him 6 months to obtain and it only cost him $40.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Steve Curry announced that he needed volunteers to help at the 12 noon barbecue, Friday, June 3, as part of AmpSurf's four-day Wind, Waves and Beyond fundraiser.  Terry Fibich announced that on Tuesday, June 7 after our next meeting, a Pismo Beach Rotary Foundation meeting will be held. By unanimous vote all of the minor amendments to our bylaws were approved.

FINES:

Pres.Mark was confident he knew that Chuck Anders had the fine free badge so he did not levy any fines on hearing the good news that Chuck's granddaughter graduated 1st in her class. However when Mike Frederick volunteered that he had a new granddaughter and was fined $40, he said it should be $60. Pres. Mark took the bait and proceeded to find out the hard way that Mike not Chuck had the fine-free badge. Pres. Mark then had all the members stand and those that were not wearing a Mesa Oaks golf tournament shirt could sit down. What a coincidence as Chuck happened to be the only one wearing such a shirt and he was fined $30. Earlier, he had fined himself $10 for failing to present a check to the FFA scholarship winner before her parents had to leave the meeting.  Bruce Beaudoin was fined for his travels to New England to attend graduation ceremonies at the Coast Guard Academy. The following birthdays were recently celebrated: Bruce Beaudoin ($70 that included the latter fine), Charlotte Anderson ($40), Mary Ann Reese ($60), Don Weber (his 78th, $100) and Paul Toms ($70). Paul was not only celebrating his 87th birthday, but his 66th wedding anniversary with Eva. Sandy Lubin's club anniversary cost him $40.  Jeff Norton was fined $25 for failing to purchase a parking ticket while he attended our club meeting at Custom House.

Program: Arroyo Grande High School FFA Highlights and the Arroyo Grande High School Scholarship Winners

The scholarship winners for the most improved students were Gaby Lopez and Taylor Diaz. The winner of the Interact scholarship was Mia McKinstry and the FFA winner was Anika Osimi.

While Mia was standing receive her award she stated that in view of the absence of the chosen FFA speaker, she would give a few off-the-cuff remarks on the past year FFA activities. They had assembled 400 primary school students to AGHS to learn more about FFA; they ran a stand at the Strawberry Festival in Arroyo Grande; she went to Indiana to attend the national FFA convention; she took 1st place in public speaking at the FFA state convention; she's all prepared for the Santa Maria fair, but she will miss it as she is going to attend a special summer session at Bernard College in New York City.

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

Walking can add 5 months to your life. This means that you will be able to spend 5 more months in a nursing home at $7000 per month.

 "I am determined to be cheerful and happy in whatever situation I may find myself. For I have learned that the greater part of our misery or unhappiness is determined not by our circumstance but by our disposition." Martha Washington

Program for May 24, 2011: 4-Way Test and Me Essay Contest Winners

To accommodate the reading of the winning essays, which took the entire meeting time, Pres. Mark rang the bell at 12: 35 PM.

Space does not permit including all but one of the winning essays in this Forum. The editor chose the essay of Kimi White who won 1st place not only locally in the Elementary Division, but in the District as well.  This editor was fortunate enough to sit during lunch at her table along with her parents and her 5th grade teacher, Mr. Nygaard of Harloe Elementary.                               

The Rotary 4-WayTest and Me

    When I first heard of the Rotary 4-Way Test I thought it was one of the best inventions EVER! I first thought that it would be great to use at my school. Everyone could live a much happier life just by asking themselves the 4 simple questions of the 4-Way Test. Is it the truth? Is it fair? Will it build friendships? Will it make school life better?  I say yes, yes, yes, and definitely YES!!!  For me, I have used it a lot at school. My school is a big place where a lot of drama can happen. It mostly happens because people don't think before they act. With the Rotary 4-Way Test, kids, like me, can think before they act.

    Is it truthful? This is a good question to ask before you blurt out whatever comes to your mind first. If you have done something wrong then it is best to admit it and face the consequences. Lies will never solve anything. We learn good lessons from our mistakes and it makes us stronger to admit we aren't perfect. No one is perfect. All kids should remember that and be fair to themselves. Not being truthful can be very stressful. I try to be truthful because I won't have to try to remember any lies I have told. People will think better of you if you tell them the truth. I know I do. When I tell the truth I know that I don't have to worry about getting in trouble. It makes life much easier and school much more fun.

    Is it fair? This is a great question to remember, especially at school. Kids can be mean to other kids everyday. I try to be fair at school. In the classroom, when we are in groups I listen to everyone's opinions. Sometimes I am very surprised by other kid’s opinions. They think of things that I don't. By giving them fair time in group, I learn interesting things from them. At lunch recess, I like to play sports. I try to be sure everyone gets a turn and I cheer for everyone because it is fair and makes everyone feel good about what they are doing. Fairness at school is important because everyone has a voice and different abilities and everyone should be given the same chance.

    Will it build better friendships? Life at school without friendships would be terrible! I came to my new school in the 3^rd grade. It was hard to leave all of my friends at my old school but my new friends have made me feel very welcome. I remember this when we get a new student or I meet a student I don't know. I try to do things that will include a lot of kids so that everyone can get involved. I started Tutu Friday at school and now we have girls in every grade wearing their tutus, too. It is great to see so many different styles and colors! It is a fun way for everyone to feel included and it has helped me build friendships with girls who are both younger and older than I am. Even the boys have said they want to do Tutu Fridays!! Doing things that will help kids find new friends will make my school one of the friendliest places in town!

    Will it make school life better? YES! I think that if all of the kids in my school were truthful, fair, and respectful then there would be no place I'd rather be. What could be better than going to a place everyday to learn and play with kids that treated you that way? Recess would be a great time to try new things because everyone would be encouraging. Lunch would be fun because everyone would mind their manners and not make the lunch duty teachers mad. Classrooms would be the best because you wouldn't have to worry about people laughing at your mistakes. I can't think of anything that would be better.     

    If I can make a difference in my school by following the Rotary 4-Way Test then I know there are other kids who want to do the same thing. We can all make our school, community and world amazing! The Rotary 4-Way Test is a test that everyone can pass! Everyone can get an A+! It makes me excited. I want to be a better student because of it and I will definitely spread the word!!!

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

“The happiest people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the best of everything they have.”

Program for May 17, 2011: Interact Club of Arroyo Grande High School

Pres. Mark rang the bell at 12:38 PM and gave Joel Conn the opportunity to hand out the new member directories that he has been working so hard on these past few weeks.

FINES:

A $15 fine was levied against Sean Schuur for wearing a Nipomo Rotary badge. Keith Slocum volunteered information that his daughter, Kelly, made the cheerleading team and is majoring in premed at CalPoly. For this information and the fact that he interrupted Pres. Mark, Keith was fined $40.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Martha Murphy announced that the Literacy Council is having a spelling bee for grown-ups on June 4 at 7 PM at the Monday Club as their major fundraiser. Sandra on the board of AMPSURF reported that a major fundraiser, Wind, Waves and Beyond, is being held during the period from Thursday, June 2nd through Sunday, June 5^th.   More information on this event can be found on their website, www.ampsurf.org/. Steve Curry, reported that the president demotion committee has decided to have a special banquet night for granting the Paul Harris Fellow awards rather than include them during the demotion banquet, which in the past has been a little too long. Dick Dannells and Gary Bayus respectively came to the podium to introduce the recipients of Meals on Wheels and Youth With a Mission, who each received a donation check from Pres. Mark. He asked all members to stand and be recognized that worked at the Soccer Tournament the previous Saturday.

Program: Interact Club of Arroyo Grande High School

Connie O' Henley introduced the officers of the Interact Club, who individually came forward to highlight the important events of the 2010 – 2011 school year.  They included the St. Patrick's Outreach toy drive and Christmas party, the Halloween Goodie bags, the Lisa Ray sock drive, the harvest festival fish fry, the walk for polio from Grover beach to the Pismo pier, the Thanksgiving dinner, Pismo Beach/5 City Rotary Christmas party, the District Gov. Deepa Willingham dinner at Rosa's Restaurant, and RYLA that included 9 from their club out of the 208 students that attended. For their international projects, they sent defibrillators to a Honduras hospital and $800 for Japan earthquake relief.  As one can see, the club has been extremely active during the year.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

“Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen.  Winston Churchill

Program for May 3, 2011: Nate Honeycutt and Don Tartaglio- Rotaract Club of San Luis Obispo

Pres. Mark rang the bell at 12:46 PM and he immediately began collecting fines.

FINES:

A $55 fine was imposed on Terry Fibich for his 33 years with Linda. Terry related on their wonderful anniversary trip to the furthest place on earth at Cape Horn. Sandy Lubin, Gary Bayus and Steve Curry were fined $10 each for unnecessary verbal response. The weekly trivial $15 (up from $10) losers were Dick Dannells, Steve Curry, Kari Ziegler, Debra Handley, and Chuck Anders.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Connie O' Henley thanked all the members that showed up at Rosa's Restaurant on April 27 for an evening with the District Gov.  sponsored by the AGHS Interact Club. Joel Conn made a last announcement for next week's Cal Poly vocational visit. Pres. Mark asked all members to stand and be recognized that worked at the Community Garden Day project. Brendan Reitsma donated a travel gift purchased during his family’s trip to Cabo San Lucas.

Program: Nate Honeycutt and Don Tartaglio- Rotaract

Club of San Luis Obispo

Don reported that this date marks the 1st year since the inception of the SLO Rotaract Club and they got off to a great start. During the winter they engaged in many activities such as skiing snowshoeing and sledding. Since May is cyclist month, they have scheduled a $40 bicycle outing to raise money for charity. Their meetings are held just twice a month at Tartaglia Realty in San Luis Obispo on the first and third Tuesday of every month at 6:30 pm. On average they have about 15 to 20 members at each meeting and more at special events.

During Nate's turn at the podium, he announced that he had changed his major to political science and is applying for a Rotary Ambassadorial scholarship to be among the 500 to 700 to further international understanding and friendly relations among people of different countries and geographical areas.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

“A people that value its privileges above its principles soon loses both.”

Basil Rathbone playing Sherlock Holmes burst into a room and exclaimed "Hello, what's this?" Use this cheerful greeting each day that is ripe with possibilities." Marilyn McIntyre

Program for April 26, 2011: Cummings-AmpSurf (The Association of Amputee Surfers)

Pres. Mark rang the bell early at 12: 25 PM because Dana Cummings had to give another presentation at 1 PM.

Program: Dana Cummings-AmpSurf (The Association of Amputee Surfers)

AmpSurf is a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization, made up of amputees, veterans, friends and families of the disabled and depend on donations for their operation. Their goal is to promote, inspire, educate, and rehabilitate people with disabilities, especially our veteran heroes through adaptive surfing and fun, safe, outdoor activities. One in five Americans struggle with a lifelong disability and nearly two million men and women veterans coming home from Iraq and Afghanistan are looking for ways to feel whole again and to fit back in to ”normal” life. AmpSurf serves amputees, the blind and those that suffer from PTSD, quadriplegia, or a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Amp Surf also serves veterans from WWII, Korea, Vietnam, and the Gulf war. They also have served children with autism and a young woman who lost a limb to cancer. AmpSurf brings the healing power of the ocean and adaptive surfing together for an experience that is both mentally and physically rehabilitating.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Ingmar Lauringson announced that he has tickets for sale after the meeting for Nipomo Rotary Club's May 6, 2011 golf tournament. Connie O' Henley announced that the AGHS Interact Club still has seats available to spend an evening with the District Gov. at Rosa's restaurant on April 27. Pres. Mark is still looking for as many willing hands as possible to stack decorative blocks on Saturday, April 30 from 8:30 AM to 12 noon on the future community gardens at Ramona and 8^th streets in Grover Beach. Doug MacMillan has tickets for the 4th annual Vodka Martini Shakedown at Rosa's restaurant on June 5 from 12 noon to 3 PM with all proceeds going to scholarships.  Next meeting will be held at custom house in Avila Beach. Joel Conn stated that there are still seats available on the bus to Cal Poly’s agricultural unit on May 10, which means that Vantana Grill will be dark on that day.

FINES:

Greg Baker was happy to be recognized in the amount of $30 for his grandchildren of 2 boys, and 2 girls.  Bruce Beaudoin had the fine free badge so he was merely congratulated on his wedding anniversary Marcia of 44 years on April 22. Gary Bayus was given a speeding ticket of $15. Mike Frederick’s daughter Erin got married last week in Mike's new barn, which cost him $40, the fine not the barn. Johnny Ham was assessed $33 for being presented with 2 professional awards and for his one-year club anniversary. This week's trivial pursuit quiz $10 losers were: Sandy Lubin, Terry Fibich, Heather Muran, Michael Boyer and Pres. Mark, because Mike McKenzie had the fine-free badge. In addition, his $40 recognition fee for his and Marie's wedding anniversary was also paid by Pres. Mark. Bruce Beaudoin's wedding anniversary with Marcia was recognized in the amount of $30. Abbey Silverstone’s volunteered to accept a $40 fine in recognition for his granddaughter’s great gymnastic accomplishments.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

A man of 60 asked his friend where he can find a woman under 40 that is interested in him. His friend told him to go to the library and look in the fiction section.

Old age is when you have something on the ball, but you are too old to bounce it.

Program for April 5, 2011 : Paul Filice and the Miner's Ace Hardware story

After Pres. Mark rang the bell at 12: 43 PM, he auctioned off the fine-free badge for $60 to Bruce Beaudoin.  Melissa McCreery handed each member $263 in play money to be placed in one of the bags representing the Annual Charitable Giveaway charities:  Boy Scouts of America, Captive Hearts, St. Patrick's Outreach: Pantry, Teen Challenge, Central Coast Condors, Youth With a Mission, S. A. V. E.-Sexual Assault Victim Education, Love SLO Community Outreach, 5 Cities Meals on Wheels, Clark Ctr. Association, Big Brother Big Sister, South County People's Kitchen, Exploration Station, and Arroyo Grande High School FFA.

FINES:

The President's table had Steve Adams as the only club member in addition to Pres. Mark so he had all members except Steve to stand to receive a $5 fine. Courtesy of the fine-free badge, Bruce's fine was paid by Pres. Mark. Last week Connie O' Henley's fine-free badge cost Pres. Mark, so this week he got even by fining her $40 for driving a newer truck.  Marina Matthews's trip to Riverside for her birthday resulted in a $40 recognition fee. Gary Bayus passed around pieces of birthday cake, but still received a $52 fine, one dollar for each of his years of life. John Wakeman was recognized for his 10th wedding anniversary with Kaleen.

NEW MEMBER INDUCTION:

Steve Adams presided over the induction of Kari Ziegler, the proprietor of the Gather Wine Bar in the ArroyoGrandeVillage, with her sponsor Ashley Boyer standing by her side. He listed 3 reasons for joining Rotary: (1) the high level of ethics and values; (2) service above self; and (3) the family of Rotary.

Program: Paul Filice and the Miner's Ace Hardware story

Paul began life in Hollister, graduated from ChicoState in 2001 with a business degree and spent some time as a golf pro.  In 2005 Paul, Mike Miner's son-in-law, joined the Miner's Ace Hardware and was named President in 2008.  Miner's opened its Grover Beach store in 1956 and now has their seventh store located in San Luis Obispo. Paul then conducted a trivia quiz and gave the following winners either a BBQ cookbook or a bottle of BBQ sauce: Heather Muran, Melissa McCreery, Vicki Pennisi, Sandy Lubin, Jeff Norton, and Dick Dannells.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

"No one really listens to someone else. If you try for a while you see why."

"I have enough money to last me the rest of my life (unless I buy something)." Jackie Mason

 ''We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give.'' Winston Churchill

Program for March 22, 2011 : Karen Crabtree, Center Director for Lindamood-Bell

Pres. Mark ring the bell a little early at 12: 37 PM and began by charging John Wakeman a $40 transfer fee to convert his red to his blue member badge.

FINES:

Abby Silverstone was fined an additional $20 for calling Past President Martha Murphy a has-been. Brian Portesi's poor introduction cost him $10.  Sandy Lubin's mocking of the President cost him $20. Kari Ziegler will be fined $20 next meeting, once she becomes a member of the Club for announcing that this Sunday, March 27 is the 1st anniversary of the AG Village's Gather Wine Bar. Doug McMillan was recognized in the amount of $40 that included a $15 correct fee for providing him with the correct number of years, 13, of marriage with Shannon. Bill Dugan objected to only being fined $50 for his 20th anniversary and had it raised another $5. John Murphy's uninvited advice to the President cost him $10. The weekly trivial quiz losers of $10 were: John Murphy, Jeff Norton, Steve Adams and Sandy Lubin. Arnie Dowdy went double or nothing after giving a first-round wrong answer to come out even by giving a 2nd round correct answer. Jonathan Rubatzky was recognized for $35 for his 8th anniversary with Monica.  Melissa McCreey was fined a hefty $45 for her club anniversary (the last time Mark tried to fine her she had the fine-free badge).  Speaking of fine-free badges and for the highlight of the meeting, Heather Moran ran on and on about her great birthday party, her new Australian Shepherd dog and other fineable events.  Pres. Mark took the bait and paid her $45 fine to loud applause.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Steve Curry stated that because of the recent rains there's a postponement to the "Bring Your Shovel @FFA Rotary" project completion. Linda Osty again came forward with two hats to draw the numbers of the $1000 Paul Harris Fellows winners that included Paul Filice and Greg Baker.  

Program -Karen Crabtree, Center Director for Lindamood-Bell

Karen was introduced by Sandy Lubin and began by stating that Lindamood with its 42 learning centers, including one in Sydney and London, works with children that cannot seem to learn to read by using ordinary teaching techniques. They have helped young children right up to 50 and 60-year-olds. She had us picture a little boy on a white horse, going over a green hill and jumping over a broken fence.  She was sure that all of us not only saw the entire picture in our mind but were able to put it in to motion.  A typical Lindamood student coming into the program could not go past a mind picture of the little boy on a horse. They work one on one and in very small groups to help approximately 100 students San Luis Obispo per year.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

"I can win an argument on any topic, against any opponent. People know this, and steer clear of me at parties. Often, as a sign of their great respect, they don't even invite me."

Dave Barry

"Make a gift of your life and lift all mankind by being kind, considerate, forgiving, and compassionate at all times, in all places, and under all conditions, with everyone as well as yourself. This is the greatest gift anyone can give." David R. Hawkins

Program for March 15, 2011 : Molly Cano and Noreen Martin: SLO County Visitors and Conference Bureau Marketing Plan

Past President Martha Murphy took over for Pres. Mark and ring the bell at 12:41 PM.

FINES:

Jack Hardy and Abby Silverstone were fined $10 each for a poor introduction and insulting the acting president, respectively. P.P. Martha continued the trivia quizzes. The $10 losers of the quiz were Sean Schuur, Bruce Beaudoin, Bill Racine, Mike Frederick and Brian Portesi. The answers to her questions that were all centered on Lake Tahoe: depth is 1645 feet, circumference is 72 miles, volume is 39,000,000,000,000, daily rate of evaporation is 1,400,000 tons, and California would be covered by 14 1/2 inches of water if all its water were released.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Steve Curry requested as many Rotarians as can come on Tuesday, March 22 from 4 to 5 p.m. for the  "Bring Your Shovel @FFA Rotary" project completion to at the Arroyo Grande High School FFA area where we painted fences a few months ago. Everyone should wear their "Rotarians at Work" T-shirts if at all possible. Steve also announced that he will send e-mails to everyone concerning donating to the Rotary International project for rebuilding Japan after the series of disasters to hit that country. Michael Boyer urged everyone to go on our Clubs Facebook page to add events and similar news. Ashlea Boyer reported that the SLO Interact Club celebrated its 1st anniversary. Linda Osty came forward with two hats to draw the numbers of the winning Rotarians for $1000 Paul Harris Fellows. Linda received a lot of catcalls after she drew her number and the commotion died down after she drew Steve Curry's number from the 2nd hat.  

  Program -Molly Cano and Noreen Martin: SLO County Visitors and Conference Bureau Marketing Plan

Molly and Noreen shared the podium in presenting a power point program of the marketing plan to increase the Bureau's budget and to give many of its channels for reaching the public a new look, seeking to reach audiences on a regional (Southern, Northern and Central CA, Central Coast, and Western US), national (the rest of the US) and global level (Canada, Mexico, Europe, Australia, Asia etc.) SLO tourism represents $1.8 billion/yr. And wine and food represents 1.7 billion/yr. We are to look forward to this fall's Savor the CentralCoast fundraiser in a large tent on the PismoBeach pier.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

How have you treated your wife on the 50th wedding anniversary? I sent her to Norway. What are you doing for her on your 51st anniversary? I'll take her home.

"The best vitamin for making friends is to "B one."

Program for March 8, 2011 : Sponsors Nominate Their Favorite Charity For the Annual Charitable Giveaway

Despite the fact that we began lunch at the Custom House a little later than usual, Pres. Mark was still able to ring the bell at 12:44 p.m.

FINES:

Harlan Silva was fined $10 for not properly introducing Heather's child, Claire Moran.  Sharon Ellis was the big reverse drawing winner of $3000 at St. Pat's annual charity function and received a $50 Rotary tax on her earnings.  Dick Dannells received a $64 recognition fee for his 53 years of marriage to Diane. Harlan Silva, Steve Curry, Arnie Dowdy and Katcho Achadjian (both of the latter in absentia) received $30, $30, $60 and $40 fines for their Club anniversaries. Connie O Henley, who was believed to have the fine-free badge, received no fine for her wedding anniversary.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Steve Curry reported that after a grueling golf tournament fundraiser in which each player used 2 balls on each of 50 holes at Cypress Ridge Golf Club, Grover Beach Rotary Club raised between $12,000 and $14,000. The monthly Rotary Board meeting is to be held at 781 Price St., Andrew Goodwin's coffeehouse on Thursday, March 10th.  Pres. Mark announced that the Rotary Board voted to donate $15,000 to the Annual Charitable Giveaway and an additional $5000 to the Food Bank

Sponsors Nominate Their Favorite Charity For the Annual Charitable Giveaway

The following is a list of sponsors and the charitable organization being sponsored:

Sean Schuur-Boy Scouts of America

Jack Hardy-Captive Hearts

Martha and John Murphy-St. Patrick's Outreach: Pantry

Paul Jones-Teen Challenge

Doug MacMillan-Central Coast Condors

Gary Bayus-Youth With a Mission

Heather Moran-S. A. V. E.-Sexual Assault Victim Education

Keith Slocum-Love SLO Community Outreach

Dick Dannells-5 Cities Meals on Wheels

Sandy Lubin-Clark Ctr., Association

Julie Tizzano-Big Brother Big Sister

Don Weber-South County People's Kitchen

Mark Olson-Exploration Station

Steve Curry-Arroyo Grande High School FFA

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

In keeping with the fact that no trivia quiz questions were asked and especially not asked of Paul Toms, he stated that the thief who stole a calendar got 12 months.

Pitifully unbelievable: "You don't have to do anything you don't want or like."

Program for February 15, 2011 : Diane Auten-Competent Communications Between Men And Women

Pres. Mark Olson loudly rang the bell at 12:43 p.m. and wished everyone a happy Valentines Day, a day late.

FINES:

Jack Hardy was fined $10 for failing to come to order at the sound of the bell. John Murphy was fined the cost of Amanda Olson's lunch because he stole Pres. Mark's wife to be a guest at his table. Doug MacMillan was fined $50 for failing in his introduction of a guest. Sgt. of Arms Terry Fibich fined Pres. Mark $50 for using two parking spots and causing guests to have to go out of their way to find parking. Arnie Dowdy was recognized in the amount of $40 for delivering a  handmade tapestry from Africa, but was made in India, which he won, but forgot to take home after attending a recent Rotary conference.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Pres. Mark Olson reminded everyone that the program for the March 8^th meeting to be held at the Custom House in AvilaBeach will be devoted to our annual Charitable Giving.  Forms were passed out for members to fill in information on their favorite charities they are willing to sponsor.

PROGRAM:     Diane Auten-Competent Communications Between Men And Women

Sandy Lubin introduced Diane, who teaches full-time at John Hancock College. She began by pointing out 3 differences between the sexes: 1) their brains; 2) socialization; and 3) the way they  communicate.  She illustrated this difference with the following communications between a female trainer and her new male client. The trainer started out by having her client left heavy barbells and during his workout she tried to engage him in a conversation involving asking questions on where he lives, whether he is married etc. With each question, her client seemed to get more and more exasperated. It seems that studies have shown that men have to concentrate during weightlifting and other strenuous activities so that they find it hard to engage in a conversation at those times.  There are 2 factors in play here, nature and nurture. Although genetics plays an important influence on many behavioral traits, research has shown that environmental influence is also very important. She pointed out how from the start boys engage in games such as cops and robbers, cowboys and Indians and other good guy - bad guy activities where who wins the game is important. Girls, on the other hand, play with dolls and engage in long conversations with their friends. If a young married couple goes out to do some shopping for a black dress. The husband goes into the 1st dress store, finds a black dress and is ready to go home. He's a little frustrated that 5 hours later his wife comes home with a different black dress from a different store, a pair of shoes, accessories to match, and a leisurely lunch in between. Next time her husband is forewarned.  After a hard day at the office, wives want their husbands to listen about how their day went and not just go turn on the TV.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

I just got off the phone with a friend that lives in North Dakota. He said that the wind was gusting at 60 miles an hour, the snow was piling up, and his wife was looking through the window very anxiously. If it gets any worse, I am going to have to let her in.

"When you smiled you had my undivided attention. When you laughed you had my urge to laugh with you. When you cried you had my urge to hold you. When you said you loved me, you had my heart forever."

Program for February 8, 2011 : Lucia Mar Unified School District Superintendent Jim Hogeboom

Pres. Mark Olson opened by stating "30 weeks down and 21 to go", but who's counting, except Pres. Mark. At 12: 40 PM, he officially began the meeting with the usual introductions.

FINES:

After the introductions were completed, Paul Filice, who had purchased the fine free last week, was recognized for his wedding anniversary and he went on to explain how he and his wife had gone to Gather Wine Bar where they found it closed, but the owner opened it so they could enjoy a glass of wine in celebration. Pres. Mark assumed that Paul had the fine-free badge so no fine was imposed. A five-minute interruption occurred when Amanda Olson took over the meeting as Acting President to fine her husband $40.  Amanda has been waiting all of her life for this moment to get even for what happened to her approximately 22 years ago in seventh grade when Mark pulled the chair out from under her.  Pres. Mark Olson then resumed the meeting and proceeded to fine Julie Tizzano, Bill Racine, and Melissa McCreery 30, 40 and 35, respectively. However, Pres. Mark wound up having to pay the fine as Paul had sold the fine-free badge to Melissa. Not so fast said Pres. Mark and fined Paul $25 for wearing a plaid shirt to Rotary. Julie Tizzano and Heather Moran were fined $30 each for their club anniversaries on January 15 and January 23, respectively.  In the interest of keeping our treasury very solvent, he then proceeded to levy a $10 fines on Bruce Beaudoin, Brendan Reitsma, and Mike McKenzie for failing to provide the correct answers to some trivial questions. Debra Handley's cell phone interruption resulted in a $25 fine.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Pres. Mark Olson announced that on Thursday, February 9 at 5 PM before the regular Rotary Board meeting, the Golf Committee and members of the Rotary Foundation will meet at Sandy Lubin's home to discuss the future of major Rotary Foundation fundraisers. Connie O'Henley reported on the wonderful Poverty Conference that she attended the previous Saturday in Santa Maria.

John Wakeman was the lucky winner of the raffle jackpot.

PROGRAM:     Lucia Mar Unified School District Superintendent Jim Hogeboom -The Vision of the District

Sandy Lubin introduced Jim who Sandy has had the privilege of knowing for the past three years. Jim began by the big question that the District faces: In these challenging times, how do we provide the resources to the schools? The following skills students need in the 21st century to be successful include: (1) communication, (2) problem solving and critical thinking, (3) teamwork, collaboration and cooperation, (4) technology, (5) self-direction, (6) innovation, imagination and creativity, and (7) global awareness and a second language. Lucia Mar's vision for the 21st century is that they become the model school district for learning in the nation.

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

Johnny's mother read to him Genesis 2 from the Bible about how shortly after Adam was created; God took a rib from Adam to create Eve. A little later, Johnny came up and said, "Mother I have a pain in my side, I think I'm going to have a wife."

Two women were talking over the back fence about the upcoming big-game. One said to the other: "Super Bowl, my idea of a Super Bowl is a toilet that cleans itself."

Program for January 25: Chief Jeff Norton-The Pismo Beach Police Department of the Vocational Visit

By Dick Dannells

During our lunch, Chief Jeff Norton introduced Commander Jack Miller head of the SWAT team. Cmdr. Miller stated that the Pismo police force is now part of a regional SWAT team of 28 people of three teams each. In addition to PismoBeach, the regional team includes officers from Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo, MorroBay, Arroyo Grande, and GroverBeach. In 2010 the SWAT team was called out on two occasions: a hostage situation and a man barricaded in a room with a gun. Support Supervisor Sherri Lange described the  Department's state-of-the-art dispatch network that takes 911, wireless and Internet calls. She explained that if you have a local emergency you should dial the Pismo Police emergency number since 911 calls go to the state police if the call is within the vicinity of the 101 freeway. For medical emergencies the department established E M D (emergency medical division). Since that time they've averaged 15 medical aid calls per day. When a call is made using the emergency number, your address is immediately available to the officer. However the officer will usually ask for your identification to confirm what the dispatcher sees on the screen. Sgt. Steve Weir, a member of the regional SWAT team, gave a demonstration of what is reasonable use of force against a drunk driver. In the first demonstration, Trish Hardy was asked by the officer to put her hands behind her back; she refused. The officer then directed her in a much louder voice to put her hands behind her back and when she refused he went for a hands-on confrontation. After she started to fight him, she was instantly hit with a  taser gun (all fake of course). Then Trish Hardy was given a promotion to the Sgt. level and Terry Fibich assumed the role of the drunk driver. He was hit with a taser gun shortly after he was ordered in a loud voice to place his hands behind his back.

The real fun began when we were directed to go out to the back lot where Detective Chris Trimble stood approximately 50 feet from a 6 foot high dummy. He first let the dummy have it with a 40 mm air baton that produces quite a welt when it is used on a victim. This baton is usually used in riot situations. The dummy was then subjected to a pepper ball from a gun that is very effective at hitting the waist of a victim from a distance of 50 to 60 feet. The resulting spray from the ball will completely incapacitate any victim. Lastly, he sent two barbs into the victim using a taser gun. A very high-voltage and between 0.2-0.4 AMPS is passed through the body of the victim. Because of its very low amperage only about 1 to 2 joules of electrical energy is passed through the body compared to 400 joules that is produced using a heart defibrillator. The  taser gun was only used approximately twice last year in PismoBeach.

For the final demonstration a beautiful two-year-old German shepherd that had been trained in Germany was run through the paces by Officer Trevor Blevins. All the Rotarians were asked to line up along the periphery of the back lot and the dog was let loose.  After sniffing around in a very short time, the dog made a beeline in a diametrically opposite corner. Cowering and hidden from the spectators was another officer with a protective sleeve on his arm that was instantly subjected to a vicious dog bite when he did not surrender at the officer's command. There was no use of drugs in this incident since the dog is still being trained for that purpose. What this demonstration showed is that the dog is able to smell fear. In this case even though the officer had been involved in similar demonstrations before his unconscious mind produced the necessary fear, which led to his capture from a crowd of non- fearful Rotarians. Chief Jeff Norton gave a tour of the department for those that could stay after the meeting.

Program for January 18, 2011 : Arnie Dowdy- "The Life of Grover City 's New Financial Officer"

by Dick Dannells

Past Pres. Martha Murphy took Pres. Mark's place and started the meeting at 12: 36 PM. When she was complemented on her new hairdo, she said it was a little short for her.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

A member of the San Luis Obispo Rotary Club (the Monday club) announced that they were having their annual fundraiser on January 29 at the Cal Poly Performing Arts Center and to see him to obtain tickets. Jeff Norton reminded everyone of the vocational meeting next week on January 25 at the Pismo Beach Police Department where we will see Mark Burnes get shot with a teaser gun. Cathy Cachu, Nipomo Rotary Club's President-Elect announced their major fundraiser is to be held on January 30 called a Taste of Italy. Linda Osty, Bruce Beaudoin, and Arnie Dowdy were called to the podium to publicize Paul Harris Fellowship. Linda mentioned that there are two lists being circulated to sign up for a $50 chance to obtain such a fellowship. A drawing was held and the winners were Don Weber, Mary Ann Reiss, Connie O' Henley, and Jeff Norton of such a fellowship from teams 11, 13, 14 and 15, respectively. An auction was held for an additional fellowship that Arnie won for $700.

FINES:

In a PismoBeach trivia game, the following were losers to the tune of $10: Gary Bayus, Sean Schuur, Paul Filice, Mary Ann Reiss, Mike McKenzie and Chuck Anders.

.

PROGRAM:     "The Life of Grover City 's New Financial Officer"

Arnie began by stating that when he was asked to give a craft talk he scratched his head to try to come up with something new since he has talked to our club on numerous occasions. One thing that may be new to us is that GroverCity was founded in 1887 four years before PismoBeach. Another fact that we may not know is that he has been in a group that meets once a month. They originally started as a writing group.  During the early stages of writing short stories about his life, he wrote a short story that he recently came upon entitled: "Wagon Going North." After at the age of 30 and 10 years of working for the LA Department of Water And Power, he was bored out of his mind. He decided he wanted to become a city manager. An opening for a financial officer for GroverCity caught his attention. So in October 1974 he literally took his wagon and went north. We got to his job on the first day he was told to go out and get his own desk that met the City's specifications. After only six months on the job as a promotion to City Manager, a state auditor by the name of Mr. Samuju explained to him that an audit had found that the City owed the State hundreds of thousands of dollars in unpaid gasoline taxes. This did not faze Arnie who asked if Samuju was not an unusual name. He was told yes indeed it's the only name like it in the U.S. Arnie said, "That's funny because I knew a Ms. Samuju in my old job at the Department of Water And Power." He was told that that was Mr. Samuju's daughter. From that point forward, he got along very well with the state auditor and obtained a six months extension to get the financials in order.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

Two men were walking through the jungle when they came upon a lion that was about to pounce on them. One of them said to the other, "What should we do?" "Pray," said the other.  The following prayer was rendered: "Oh Lord, thank you for what we are about to receive."

"The closest we ever come to perfection is when we write our own resume."

by Dick Dannells

Pres. Mark Olson began unusually early at 12: 27 PM to allowmore time for the District Gov.'s presentation.

FINES:
In keeping with allowing more time for today's program, Pres.Mark kept the fines to a minimum.  TaraContino's birthday and a trip to Hawaii received a $40 fine and Greg Baker's andConnie O'Henley's Club anniversaries four and 18 years received $30 fines.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Joel Conn had sent everyone an e-mail to bring 60 businesscards to the next meeting to be used in a Club Directory and took time toremind those who may not have read their e-mail. A sign-up sheet was circulatedfor a tour of the Pismo Beach Police Department by our own member and theChief, Jeff Norton at the January 25^th meeting .

PROGRAM:     District Gov. DeepaWillingham - How Rotary an Help Cure The World's Problems 

D.G. Deepa Willingham played an inspiring PowerPoint programbeginning with a brief history that included her trials and tribulations intraveling from India to New York City on 2-2-64 and thereafter attending thegraduate program at Miami U. in Oxford, Ohio. She quickly turned to thenumerous problems of the world that Rotary is a position to help solve:poverty, adult illiteracy and the final push to eliminate polio - recent dropsof polio in India and Nigeria is very encouraging. She urged all members togive up our time and funds to these efforts. June 25^th is the dateof her demotion banquet to which she invited us all to attend. She ended theprogram by having Brendan Reitsma come forward to receive a certificate for thework he has done as a new member.  She urgedPres. Mark to have his picture taken with the "Deepa Mobile" shrink-wrappedwith the polio eradication message.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAYBY PAUL TOMS:  "You cannot live aperfect day without doing something for someone who can never repay you." JohnWooden

Program for January4, 2011: Dana MacGregor – Soccer Aroundthe World
by Dick Dannells

Pres. Mark Olson began the new year at 12:44 PM byrecognizing Linda Osty for achieving the honor of Arroyo Grande Citizen of the Yearfrom the AG Chamber of Commerce. He also took note, with a smile, of the factthat Rick Castro has not missed a single Rotary meeting this year.

FINES AND TRAVELGIFTS:
For her honor Linda was fined in the amount of $75. TheForum editor outbid the field to purchase the fine-free badge for $75. Talkingout of turn resulted in a $10 penalty for John Murphy. Mary Ann Reiss andMichael Boyer were each fined $30 for their one and nine years with the Club,respectively.  January 6 marked MikeKee's 63rd birthday and January 9 is Harlan Silva's 55th birthday that resultedin $39 and $40 assessments, respectively. Sandy Lubin was recognized for $44 ata rate of one dollar for each of his years of marriage to Cindi Magee.  Linda presented a German Nutcracker to Pres.Mark and related what a great time she and Ken had during their cruise down theDanube River. Paul Felice presented Disneyland items from his trip with hisfamily to that wonderful place. Also presenting gifts were Jeff Norton for hisski trip to Mammoth, Steve Adams from his family's Jamaica trip and Mary AnnReiss for a trip to San Francisco

ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Pres. Mark announced that our District Gov. Deepa Willinghamwill be our speaker next week and a social in her honor will be held nextTuesday evening at the Exploration Center in Grover Beach.

PROGRAM:     Dana MacGregor – Soccer Around the World
When Dana was asked the reason he has played soccer withteams around the world, he answered that his professional soccer experiencesplaced him in touch with players from teams in the countries he has played.  As he got to know these players, it was onlynatural that over time he was asked to play on their teams. Dana has nowsettled down with teaching kids the wonderful sport of soccer by running asoccer camp from January 3 through January 7 each year.  The camp is sponsored by the Grace BibleChurch. Dana then showed a short video of the soccer camp activities. Thepresent enrollment is down to 40, which is partly attributed to the economyPres. Mark indicated that our Club sponsors four kids to the Camp.

Secret greater John Wakeman drew Arnie Dowdy's raffle ticketnumber and Arnie drew the black marble for a win over $300.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAYBY PAUL JONES: "Never look down on anybody unless you are helping them up."

Program for December 14: Dr. Steven Sainsbury - Rwanda Experiences    

By Dick Dannells

Pres. Mark was in a festive mood when he opened the meeting promptly at 12:43 PM.  His positive mood probably stems not only because it is the holiday season, but from the fact, as he stated earlier, his presidency is about ½ over.

FINES:

After Jeff Norton's introduction of a guest at his table, Pres. Mark called on him to come forward to collect the recent ¼ page SLO Tribune article.  It includes a photo of Jeff appearing before the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies to hear the announcement that the Pismo Beach Police Department retained its national accreditation status.  He gladly accepted a recognition fee of $25. The members without membership pins that were fined at least $10 were: Steve Curry, Bill Racine, Brandon Reitsma, John Wakeman and Mike Kee.  Due to Steve's insolence, his fine was raised to $30 and Bill's to $25 for coming to Steve's defense.  Club anniversaries resulted in respective fines of $33, $30 and $50 for Karen Jones' total of 33 years, Terry Fibich's 14 years, and Sean Schuur's 12 years and not 10 as he first thought.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Pres. Mark had all those members stand that helped in any way to make our annual Christmas Party such a success.  Connie O'Henley reported on the recent Interact activities including helping at our Christmas Party on Sunday. Steve Curry reported that Honduras will get the defibrillators that were held up in customs without having to pay the $500 duty. Paul Jones reported that our next meeting on Dec. 21, our last of the year, will feature music of Jack Hardy and Mike Kee. Spouses are invited to this event.

PROGRAM: Dr. Steven Sainsbury - Rwanda Experiences    

Dr. Sainsbury has been practicing in the county for the past 20 years, chiefly as an emergency physician at Sierra VistaHospital in San Luis Obispo.  In recent years he has been training doctors in the Republic of Congo and Rwanda that used to be a part of Belgian Congo. He admits that Goma in the Congo where he met with the local doctors is a very dangerous place. On the other hand, Rwanda, admittedly one of the poorest countries in the world is a safe place.  It has overcome the terrible 1994 genocide of the Tutsis, representing 15% of the country, at the hands of the 85% Hutus.  This has been accomplished without hardly any recrimination.   This was done by establishing a Community Courts of Forgiveness.  Only the leaders went to regular courts for punishment. He lightened his talk by telling the story of a Catholic, a Moslem, and a Jew on a trip to Alaska.  They each said they could convert a bear to their religion.  The Catholic went out and sure enough the bear had easily been converted. Similarly, the Moslem came back about the same time having converted the bear.  After a long wait, the Rabbi came back all beat up and bleeding and said, "I guess I shouldn't have started with the circumcision."

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

"Rotary gives without remembering and receives without forgetting."

Program for December 7: Rick Castro - The State of Health Care Today

By Dick Dannells

The meeting was opened as usual with introductions of guests at 12:43 PM followed by the fine-free badge auction. Steve Adams had the winning bid at $25, a good price indeed.

FINES AND TRAVEL GIFTS:

Before the auction, Harlan Silva was fined $10 for insubordination.  He had a chance to buy the badge and remove his fine, but obviously he kept his bid at $10.  That is why he is our Treasurer.  A new white car having a name that rhymes with Mercedes and is driven by Tara Contino resulted in a $40 Tara fine. Many members having recent birthdays and the like were absence so Pres. Mark was compelled to have fun with his trivia questions that are explained in the Nov. 30 Forum.  He fined the following members $10 each for giving the wrong answer: Frank Montesinos, Tara Contino (think of her savings if she had bid $26 for the badge), Brendan Reitsma, Paul Jones, and Mike Key.  Sandy Lubin was fined $20 for giving a preposterous answer to save Sharon Ellis from possibly losing, what a gentleman.  Martha and John Murphy presented books from their trip to Maui.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

A reminder that our annual Christmas Party for the set-up team starts at 11 AM and for the rest of us at 1 PM on December 12^th at the Grover Beach Community Center at 1230 Trouville Avenue .  This is the same location as last year's event.  The gift wrapping party is at 271 Reef Court, PismoBeach starting at 6 PM on Dec. 7^th).  

PROGRAM: Rick Castro - The State of Health Care Today

After an introduction by Paul Jones, Rick began by stating our health care system in the U.S. is a mess. Based on the latest survey in 2000 by the WHO, we rank 37^th, a far cry from France's #1 and just below Canada's at 30^th.  At least we are better than the Democratic Republic of the Congo at 188^th.  Five indicators are taken into consideration: overall level of population health; health inequalities; overall level of health system responsiveness; how well people of varying economic status find that they are served by the health system; and who pays the costs.  Rick then proceeded to summarize various provisions of what is termed Obama Care that passed this year in Congress.  One example is children's coverage by the parent's health plan up to age 26 that is now in effect.  In 2011, there is the availability of the 5 year long term care option as well as taxes on prescription drug and medical devices that are covered by your insurance.  By 2013, payments are made to primary care physicians and hospitals will receive bundled payments that cover not just the hospitalization, but care for certain post-acute providers.  By 2014, all people are to become insured. By 2018, a tax is imposed on Cadillac health care plans over $10,200.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

"Lord, make me an instrument of your peace; where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; and where there is sadness, joy." by Saint Francis of Assisi (Giovanni Francesco di Bernardone; 1181/1182 - October 3, 1226)

Program for November 30: Carl Hansen - Food Bank Executive Director and Chair of the Opportunity Conference

By Dick Dannells

President Mark was in his usual good form as he opened the meeting with introductions of guests at 12:45 PM.

FINES:

The members who were  fined for not having pasted their photos on our Web page included: Sharon Ellis, Doug McMillan, Michael and Ashley Boyer, Paul Felice, Mike Frederick and Sandy Lubin.  Blatant advertising resulted in $32 and $33 fines for Ashley Boyer and Linda Osty. A moment of Pres. Mark's time was wasted by Brian Portesi that cost him $10.  Brendan Reitsma was also fined that amount for not scheduling his announcement that the Golf Committee tournament wrap-up meeting has been postponed until Jan. 2011.   Pres. Mark was then fined $20 for failing to give Brendan time for a previously scheduled wrap-up meeting announcement during the last meeting.  A birthday, a wedding anniversary, and a club anniversary were recognized with $42, $31 and $30 fines for Doug McMillan, Frank Montesinos, and Jonathan Rubatzky, respectively.  As these were not enough for one meeting, the following members were fined $10 each for giving the wrong answer to Pres. Mark: Bruce Beaudoin, Chuck Anders, Brian Portesi, Paul Toms, and Keith Slocum.  In a typical question, Bruce Beaudoin was asked, "What is the average rainfall for PismoBeach?" (It is 17.7 in.) His answer of 20 inches was off the mark when Ashley Boyer answered lower.  

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Melissa McCreery announced our annual Christmas Party for servers starts at 11 AM and for the rest of us at 1 PM and runs until 3 PM on December 12^th.  The gifts will be purchased at K Mart on Sat. Dec. 4^th. A gift wrapping party at Kathy Foster (Ashley's mother), 271 Reef Court, PismoBeach, will start at 6 PM on Dec. 7^th (Remember December 7^th).  Taste of Italy tickets can be purchased from Sean Schuur with some of the proceeds going to support our Club's charities. Connie O'Henley's Super Bowl son Donny and his team won the silver trophy at the Las Vegas tournament that included teams from around the country. 

PROGRAM: Carl Hansen - Food Bank Executive Director and Chair of the Opportunity Conference

Carl began with the following grim statistics of the Food Bank of SLO for the past three years starting in 2007: the demand for the Food Banks' services has increased over the previous year by 25%, 25% and 31% (2010 over 2009).  They still have maintained an average cost of $1 per 10 pounds of food and are incorporating more healthy fresh fruit and vegetables. The Opportunity Conference will be held at CuestaCollege on Saturday, February 26, 2011 that will include many Rotary Clubs in the area in addition to his Paso Robles Club as sponsors of at least $1000. The overall goal of the conference is to reduce poverty in the county by 50% in 10 years.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

"The closest to perfection a person ever comes is when he fills out a job application form. "~Stanley J. Randall

Program for November 23: Deborah Handley -"Food for Thought - My Life With McDonalds"

By Dick Dannells

The introductions of guests began at 12:45 PM and then President Mark assessed just a few well deserved fines.

FINES AND TRAVEL GIFTS:

Sean Schuur was fined $10 for being Sean.  Julie Tizzano was also fined $10 for distributing 2010 Discovery In Dining coupon books.  Mike Fredericks was fined $28 for his 10 years with this Club.  The following members presented travel gifts: Jeff Norton - a Disneyland cup;  Marina Mathews-a redwood and agate art object and a jar of Oregon cranberry sauce; Mike McKenzie-a Chinese wine bottle skirt; and Arnie Dowdy- bright orange Rotary cap and Brazilian fair trade coffee.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

President Mark appointed Linda Osty to serve the remainder of the years as International Director in place of Bruce Beaudoin who had to leave the post.

PROGRAM: Deborah Handley -"Food for Thought - My Life With McDonald's"

Deborah is from Kentucky and began life at an early age, her work life that is.  She began modeling at 16 and continued for 5 years.  About that time, she obtained a degree in commercial interior design and has done the design on numerous buildings such as Kentucky Fried Chicken's corporate offices. Now fast forward to PismoBeach, where she met her future husband, Keith, on the tennis courts while visiting her aunt.  They own 6 McDonald's restaurants that employ 186 people from MorroBay to Nipomo.  All of their managers are women and have over 10 years experience.  Food safety is their #1 priority. McDonald's became nutritionally conscious 30 years ago and their Web Site provides nutritional information for all of their products. In 1966 McDonald's became an Olympic partner prior to the Summer Games in Mexico City. Charitable giving is also one of the Handley's priorities including Ronald McDonald House and Care Mobile as well as local community giving.

50/50 drawing - Vickie Pennisi had the winning ticket, but no black marble!

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

Unknown author: "The Thanksgiving dinner is eaten in 14 minutes, which is the same time as the halftime of an NFL game."

[Ed. Note:  Thanks to Marina Matthews for taking notes for this Forum.]

Program for November 16: Victoria Bentley -"Empowering Congo Women"

By Dick Dannells

After the introductions of guests at 12:45 PM, President Mark had the winners of the Clam Festival Spelling Bee winners come forward.   Trinity Anderson a fourth grader at Fairgrove Elementary and Lucas Holbrook a 6^th grader at Ocean View Elementary were the winners.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Brendan interrupted Pres. Mark to report that a Golf Committee meeting will be held on Dec. 9^th at 5:30 PM at a location to be announced. The Tuesday meeting on Nov. 30^th will be held at Ventana Grill as usual and not at the Custom House in AvilaBeach. Martha Murphy requested a member to officially move to have Ashley Boyer serve as our President for the 2011-2012 term and also to move to ratify the action taken by the Past Presidents club in nominating Gary Bayus as the 2012-2013 Club President.  Both motions were passed unanimously.  The annual Christmas Party will be held at the usual time on Sunday December 12^th at the Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Avenue.

FINES AND TRAVEL GIFTS:

For Ashley Boyer's failure to introduce Amanda Olson and Brendan's interruption, they were fined $10. For Katcho Achadjian's victory in the recent election to serve the 33^rd District as California Assembly Person, he was assessed $100.The following members were fined $25 for failing to add their photos to the On-Line Member Photo Directory on our Web Site: Mickey Hedstrom, Rick Castro, Jonathan Rubatzky, and Don Weber. Rick Castro and Andrew Goodwin presented travel gifts to Mark.

PROGRAM: Victoria Bentley -"Empowering Congo Women"

  Victoria showed a video of the most depressing and absolutely inhuman treatment of women anywhere on earth in order to satisfy the greed of a Congolese President and its government.  Victoria had worked in Kosovo in the '90's in the aftermath of its war and thought she had seen everything as far as governmental inhumane treatment.  When she heard about the conditions of women in the Congo, she felt compelled to come out of retirement to try to do something about it.  To empower such women, she started a vocational center to provide sewing machines and kits and to teach Congolese women how to make clothes for sale.  As a member of the Montecito Rotary Club who sponsored this project, she obtained a matching grant in 2009-2010 from RI for total funds of over $20,000 to initially support the project. For a detailed report on this project see: http://www.montecitorotary.org/UshindiProject.cfm

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:

If I can lead a happy life, touch a number of lives and make a few million, I am a success.

Pericles: "What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others."

Program for November 9: Dr. Pete & Sandy Muran -"Understanding Integrative Medicine"

By Dick Dannells

The introductions of guests began at 12:44 PM after which President Mark assessed the fines to keep our treasurer, Harlan Silva, happy.

FINES:

Joel Conn and Cliff Nagler were fined $10 each to sort out the confusion of the lost and then found dog garment.  Terry Fibich stole guest Amanda Olson from Mark's table, but since Mark had two guests Terry was not fined. In addition, Mark Burnes was not fined for his birthday on Sun. 11/14 because he had the fine-free badge.  Vicky Pennisi and Martha Murphy were not as lucky as they were respectively fined $39 and $40 for their Sun. 11/14 and Monday 11/15 birthdays. 

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Steve Curry announced that $1392 was raised for RI's Polio Plus campaign during the beach walk on Sat. 11/6. Dick Dannells reported that about 85 participants took part in the beach walk and subsequent ham/cheeseburger barbeque.  The regular Tuesday meeting on Nov. 30^th will be held at the Custom House in Avila Beech.

PROGRAM:

Dr. Peter & Sandy Muran -"Understanding Integrative Medicine"Dr. Peter Muran has spent 28 years as a practicing physician is a published expert on functional medicine, mercury toxicity and Lyme disease. His wife of 6 years, Dr. Sandra Muran's profession is clinical nutrition that was prompted by her son's food allergies.  She has been working with people who have both environmental and food sensitivities. They teamed up to create Extreme Health 360 for understanding integrative medicine leading to a power path to vitality at any age.  Ones health is not just a function of genetics and DNA, but about 70% of health is dependent on environmental influences. Good health can only be achieved by addressing the total, unique individual, not by merely treating the symptoms, but by removing obstacles and encouraging dynamic, coordinated function of all of ones systems. At the end of the presentation, a card the size of a business card was given out to be placed in ones billfold.  One side had a list of the clean 15 items of produce that can be purchased without worry and on the other a list of 12 dirty items that should be purchased in their organic form.

50/50 drawing - winner was Mark Olson, but again no black marble!

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL JONES:

When George opened his curtain and saw thieves were stealing the contents of his backyard shed, he called the police to have them rush to prevent the crime in action. The desk sergeant said, "Everyone is out so we don't have anyone around at this time." George hung up and called back minutes later to say that he took out his shotgun and blasted all of the thieves.  In less time than it takes to tell it, George's house was surrounded by the local police, men from the sheriff's office, a rescue team on a helicopter, and the local representatives from the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  The police Captain came up to George and said I thought you said thieves were stealing from you.  George said "Yeh and I thought you said, "Everyone is out so we don't have anyone around at this time.'

Unknown author: "Light travels faster than sound. That's why most people seem bright until you hear them speak."

Program for November 2: Daudi Kallisa, Past President of the Los Osos Rotary Club- International Development

By Dick Dannells

As usual at 12:38 PM, President Mark began the meeting with introductions of guests and the fine-free badge auction, which was purchased for $50 by Mark Burnes.

TRAVEL GIFTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Maple syrup and maple butter were presented to Mark that Bruce Beaudoin picked up on his journey through Maine, NH, Vermont, New York and New Jersey.  Steve Curry had those members raise their hands that were planning to take the 2 mile beach walk on Sat. 11/6 starting 10 AM at Fins Restaurant at the end of Grand Ave. 

FINES:

Mark was in a fine mood and levied fines of $51 on Sandy Lubin for his 67 years of life and on himself for his birthday.  Terry Fibich set the amount at an even $50.  After the entire Club sang the HB song to Mark, he had everyone in the Club rise and asked those that had their Rotary pins on to be seated.  Mark levied $30 fines on the ones left standing that included Sharon Ellis, Keith Slocum, Bill Racine, Heather Moran and Brandon Reitsma.  Tommy Thompson was not fined for his Oct. 28^th birthday because he should have been recognized last week when Tommy had the fine-free badge.  Harlan Silva was fined $10 for complaining about something.  Linda Osty was assessed $30 for her 20 years of marriage.  Club anniversaries of Linda Osty, Tara Contino, Bruce Beaudoin and Sharon Ellis were recognized in amounts of $35, $30, $25, and $35. Finally Mark ended his fine spree by fining $10 each of the following members who gave the wrong answers to some trivia questions: Bill Racine, Vickie Pennisi, Trish Hardy, Frank Montesinos and Jonathan Rubatzky. 

PROGRAM (Editor'snote: Thanks to John Murphy for providing the following):

Daudi Kallisa, Past President of the Los Osos Rotary Club-International Development

Daudi was born in Eastern Africa and is leading a multiyear project funded with an RI Matching Grand.  Current funding includes $2,000 from our club.  Project ACE (African Community Empowerment) is a long-term project involving safe water, latrines, adult literacy, schools and clinics.  There is a 5 year plan than emphasizes: schools, community and sustainability.  The countries involved include - Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda.  An example of how to change the approach is: If you build a water well and provide safe water, water borne disease is reduced by only 17%.  However, if you dig the well and provide sanitation education, disease is reduced by 67%.

50/50 drawing - winner was Charla, but no black marble!

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS: 

Winston Churchill: "Many forms of government have been tried in this world of sin and woe.  No one pretends that democracy is perfect or all wise.  In fact it has been said that democracy is the worst form of government, except all those other forms that have been tried from time to time." Dwight Eisenhower: "There is nothing wrong with America that the faith, love of freedom, intelligence and energy of her citizens cannot cure."

Program for October 26: Connie O'Henley: The Clark Center

By Dick Dannells

Promptly at 12:37 PM, President Mark asked for introductions of guests and then called for a new member induction ceremony.

INDUCTION OF A NEW MEMBER:

 Arnie Dowdy had the pleasure of inducting into our Club, Andrew Goodwin, who has the classification of Coffee House Owner.  Andrew now joins ~1.2 million fellow Rotarians around the world.  Gary Bayus, Andrew's sponsor also took part in the ceremony.

FINES:

Members at the two tables having invited quests were not fined.  All of the other members were fined at least $10 for not having such guests.  The one table that had Andrew was fined anyway since Pres. Mark did not consider Andrew an invited guest as he was to be induced a few moments later.  Mike Frederick, Bill Racine and Sandy Lubin were fined an additional $20 for complaining.  Sandy Lubin was also assessed $10 for cell phone alarm.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Brendan Reitsma reported on the successful Rotary Foundation Golf Classic that took place at the SLO Country Club the previous evening. About 84 golfers enjoyed a spectacular day only slightly marred by the windy conditions. Brandon stated that members can still purchase the large vests having our Club logo given to each golfer for $25 each.  

ROTARY MOMENT BY PAUL TOMS: 

The motto of Rotary is "Service Above Self."  Before getting to the serious side, Paul quoted Brooke Shields: "Smoking kills. If you're killed, you've lost a very important part of your life." (1982)  Department of Social Services, Greenville, South Carolina: "Your food stamps will be stopped effective March 1992 because we received notice that you passed away. May God bless you. You may reapply if there is a change in your circumstances."  Our goal is not to build a fancy club house on the beach, but to build a better community for those less fortunate than ourselves.

PROGRAM:

Connie O'Henley, Director of the ClarkCenter Association:  The ClarkCenter

Since coming to this area about 20 years ago, Connie has held positions of increasing responsibility all dealing with raising funds.  First with SouthCountyYMCA, then Salmon Enhancement and now the ClarkCenter, which falls under 3 separate organizations: (1) LuciaMarSchool District, (2) Clark Center Foundation, (3) Clark Center Association. The raising of funds that Connie oversees is through sponsors, members, event sales and grants. The fun part of Connie's job is overseeing the lineup of shows for each season that takes into consideration pricing, routing, variety, scheduling, and targeting certain audiences.  The routing aspect is often a high price group will take a much lower fee if they happen to be coming from San Francisco on their way Fresno with a last stop in Los Angeles.  Connie then ran a video of the 2010-2011 season.

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS: 

"Thanks to the Interstate Highway System, it is now possible to travel from coast to coast without seeing anything." Charles Kuralt  "It's not your blue blood, your pedigree or your college degree. It's what you do with your life that counts."  Millard Fuller

Program for October 19: Claire Hodgkins  - California Valley Solar Ranch project

By Dick Dannells

President Mark began the meeting at 12:37 PM with the usual introduction of guest including Dowdy Kallisa, Past President of the Los Osos Rotary Club, having a classification of International Development.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Greg Baker reported on the very successful hamburger and hot dog barbeque on Friday, Oct. 15^th at the Steve Curry Ranch to honor five members of the Australian RI Group Study Exchange team. Greg gave special mention to the host families from our Club: Steve and Julie Schumann, Arnie and Maria Dowdy, Mark and Amanda Olson. Scott and Sandy Nichols of the Grover Beach Rotary Club also were hosts. Gary Bayus also reported on another successful Rotary project this past week with a float in Pismo Beach Clam Festival Parade and a Spelling Bee that involved Sean Schuur, as MC, Heather Moran, John Wakeman, Trish Hardy, Terry Fibich, John Murphy, Martha Murphy Sharon Ellis, Ashley Boyer, Mark Olson, and Charla Anderson. Ashley Boyer again made the plea to get the raffle prizes for Rotary Foundation Golf Classic on Monday, Oct. 25, 2010 to her Keller Williams office at 350 James Way -Suite 130.  Steve Curry circulated a signup sheet for members to pledge $35 to support the Polio Plus campaign.  So far $1045 has been raised.  If donors like, there is a 2 mile beach walk on Sat. 11/6 starting 10 AM at the end of Grand Ave. Mike Kee announced that from 1-20 through 2/20/2011, Mary Meserve formerly director of the SLO Little Theater's Legends series, will be putting on a series of former Legends performances at the Clark's Center's Studio Theater.  (Ed. Note: I expect that Jack Hardy will return as Johnnie Cash.)  Jonathan Rubatzky announced the Christmas Party will be held about the same date and time and exactly the same place as last year.

TRAVEL GIFTS AND FINES:

Sandy Lubin gave a surf board cutting board for his Hawaiian trip and Mike Fredericks gave a flask for his Grand Canyon and New Mexico trips.  Mike was fined $40 for his daughter's expectancy and his other daughter's engagement.  Club anniversary fines of $30 for Marina Mathews' 14^th, $40 for Paul Jones's 21^st with our Club and 40^th with all Clubs, and $25 for Joel Conn's 1^st.   Finally, Terry Fibich fined Pres. Mark $28 for having no travel gift for his family's trip to Disneyland

THE PROGRAM:

Claire Hodgkins, the local SunPower/California Valley Solar Ranch project liaison:

The California Valley Solar Ranch project is currently obtaining the necessary groundwork to install a 250-megawatt photovoltaic solar power plant in San Luis ObispoCounty's CaliforniaValley. It will use high-efficiency SunPower solar TO sun trackers to generate enough power for about 100,000 homes or practically every household SLOCounty. SunPower is a California-based company in solar technology. The plant is expected to begin generating power in 2011. CVSR will be located on 4365 acres of land in the CaliforniaValley, but only about 1966 acres will be used for the solar arrays. The rest of the land will be preserved as dedicated open space.  This project will generate direct and ancillary economic benefits for the County, including an increase in property and sales tax revenues and about 350 construction jobs.

THOUGHTS FOR THE DAY BY PAUL TOMS:  You have reached old age when you have seen it all, done it all, but you can't remember it.  Mark Twain said "Life would be infinitely happier if we could only be born at the age of eighty and gradually approach eighteen." Peter Drucker - Management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right things.

Program for October 12:  Leanna Roberts-Exec Director of "Russian Orphanages" Dick Dannells

Past President Murphy filling in for President Mark, began the meeting at 12:30PM with the introduction of guests.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Greg Baker circulated a signup sheet for the hamburger and hot dog barbeque on Friday, Oct. 15^th at the Steve Curry Ranch starting at 5:30PM.   The Grover Beach Club will join us in meeting the members of the Australian RI Group Study Exchange team. Rotarians having names in the 1^st half of the alphabet are asked to bring desserts and the others to bring a salad.  Gary Bayus asked for volunteers to work at 3PM on Thurs. 10/14 to construct a float for the Pismo Beach Claim Festival Parade to be held from 9:30 - 11 AM on Saturday Oct. 16.  Our Club will also run a Spelling Bee at the Festival from 3:30 - 6 PM on Sunday Oct. 17 involving students from local schools.  Members are asked to participate. Chuck Anders asked for help in encouraging golfers to sign-up for the Rotary Foundation Golf Classic on Monday, Oct. 25, 2010.  Raffle prizes should be turned in by this Friday, 10/15.  Steve Curry showed the two defibrillators that will be sent to the Honduras Rotary Club involved in the April 2010 Cataract Project.  Rick Castro helped to get a distributor to sell them for the $1800 that was raised by the AGHS Interact Club under Connie O'Henley's direction.  Connie reported the money was raised from pledges of members in the local Rotary Clubs. Ingmar Lauringson and Mike Eisner, President and Treasurer of the Nipomo Club, respectively, encouraged all members to pledge $35 to support RI's efforts to match the Gates Foundation grant to end Polio around the world. A 2 mile beach walk is scheduled for Sat. 11/6 starting 10 AM at the end of Grand Ave. for all those that made such a pledge

FINES:

Martha promised to raise some funds in Marks absence and fined the following members $10 each for not answering major league baseball questions: Mary Ann Reese, Steve Curry, Chuck Anders, Bill Racine, Paul Jones, Sandy Lubin, Keith Slocum, Heather Muran, Bill Dugan, and Brendan Reitsma.  Jack Hardy, Bill Racine, Gary Bayus, Rick Castro and Brian Portesi were fined for not having their Rotary pins.

THE PROGRAM:

Leanna Roberts-Exec Director of "Russian Orphanages" and Rachael Hughes - the Founder of "Living Hope"

There are 140 million orphans in the world and 4 million orphans and homeless kids in Russia and the Ukraine.  The Rotary Orphan Act-Russia is a charitable organization that works through 17 Rotary Clubs in Russia to provide much needed support to Russian orphans through RI Foundation's matching grant programs and Rotary District grants.  Rachael Hughes began in 1997 what is now known as Living Hope, a charitable organization that helps give the street children of Vladivostok, Russia the life they deserve. Visit this site for more information: http://www.livinghope.org.nz/ (Editor's note: Durham Pearce, her fiancé from New Zealand, was a guest at the President's table.)

Thoughts for the Day by Paul Jones: Two boys were called into the pastor's office and the first boy was asked if he knew where God is and the second boy was asked "Where is God?"  One whispered to the other "God is missing and they think we had something to do with it."

We never grow up; we merely learn how to act in public.           

Program for October:  Bev Kirkhart ­- Hearst Cancer Resource Center

By Dick Dannells

President Mark began the meeting at 12:45PM by calling onJoel Cohn and asking him about his recent marriage.  Joel said everything went great and presented a travel giftof a bottle of brandy from Croatia where he and his bride went on theirhoneymoon.  Joel was also asked togive up his fine free badge so Mark could auction it off and fine thosedeserving Rotarians. The badge went to Tommy Thompson for $35.

FINES:

The following members were fined $10 each for not having aguest at their table: Steve Curry, Chuck Anders, Bill Racing, Steve Adams,Connie O'Henley, Linda Osty, and Paul Filice.  Mark fined Jack Hardy $20 for his wife Sheila's cookies andassessed $30 wedding anniversary fines on Brandon Reitsma and Melissa McCreery.

RECOGNITIONS ANDANNOUNCEMENTS:

Martha Murphy was recognized, but not fined, for being lateand failing to give the invocation that was given by Terry Fibich. Gary Bayusreported that our Club will have a float in the Pismo Beach Claim FestivalParade from 9:30 – 11 AM on Saturday Oct. 16 and run a Spelling Bee at theFestival from 3:30 – 6 PM on Sunday Oct. 17.  All members are asked to participate. Arnie Dowdy confirmedthat the Australian RI Group Study Exchange team will be here on Oct. 15^that the Steve Curry Ranch starting at 5:30PM.  Members are asked to sign up to bring either a salad ordessert to accompany the hamburgers and hot dogs that will be served.  Arnie also stated that Jock McKenzie,former District Governor, had passed aware with services this Sat. Oct. 9^th. Ashley Boyer reminded us toprovide a raffle prize for the Rotary Foundation Golf Classic on Monday, Oct.25, 2010.  She would like allprizes brought in by next meeting.

THE PROGRAM:

Bev Kirkhart ­- Hearst Cancer Resource Center

Bev is the Director of the Center that offers for free 22programs and classes to cancer patients, family members and friends. Oneexample is this month's program "Frankly Speaking About Advanced Breast Cancer"in recognition that Oct. is Breast Cancer Awareness month. The Center providesa Nurse Navigator to guide patients through their journey of cancer treatmentresources that include: American Cancer Society, Cancer Connections,Enhancement, Inc. Jack's Helping Hand, Team Survivor San Luis Obispo, and theWellness Community. She then entertained questions.

Thoughts for the Dayby Paul Toms: Plato said "Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hardbattle. Bob Hope said "If you don't have kindness in your heart, you have theworst type of heart problem."

Pam Pickering was awarded a Paul Harris Fellow by member Katcho Achadjian.  This is the 227th Paul Harris awarded by our club since it was chartered in 1985!  Pam was recognized for her work in a number of positions for various agencies, but was also lauded for outstanding work by her "boss", Jim Brabeck.  Read on for the rest of the meeting report --