Phil Toohey, Reporter

Program: Jungle Fishing and Mis Adventures

Napa Sunrise Rotarian Stephen Orndorf read to us from his novel about his fishing adventures in South America. For over 40 years Steve and his brother Dave have traveled to the jungles of South America in pursuit of adventure and trophy fish. In his own words, “ while the fishing has not always been productive, there have been no shortage of adventure.”  Journeying thru seven countries and some 24 different adventures, they have encountered logistical nightmares, hostile Indians, and a host of intimidating creatures like piranhas, 9 foot electric eel (60 lbs in weight), snakes and bullet ants.

The richly bio diverse Amazon and Orinoco River, serve as the backdrop for most of their adventures.  Planes without seats, planes without pilots, being bitten or eaten by native plants, bugs and animals, fill the talk with hair raising stories that would make Harrison Ford’s “Raiders of the Lost Arch”, Indiana Jones movies look like Alice in Wonderland stuff.  It would be truly unbelievable if it weren’t all true.  We were entertained with slides and narrative. Stephen has the book for sale at www.xlbris.com for around 12 dollars.

Alan Galbraith, Reporter

Speakers of the Day:
We were treated to multiple speakers, introduced by Suzan Rada.  Current Interact President Dana Cronin of the Interact Club at St. Helena High School led the group.  It included Interact members Nancy Platner, Georgia McLain, Karla Camacho, Katrina Kennedy, Cori Calabi, Madeline Oliver, and Tim Krausz.  We also heard from faculty advisor Jason Kelperis and former Interact member Kristina Ericson.   Their presentation was through a slide show of the several Interact projects undertaken in the last year: a booth at Cheers, food preparation for a cancer project, debris removal from the Napa River, Halloween solicitation for the What If? Foundation, recycling sorting at a Family Center Event, the Winter Food Drive (successful, at 1,000 pounds), the Spring Food Drive (not so successful at 200 pounds), Rotary Saloon Night cleanup, “Walk-to-Prom” promotion, and lemonade and cookies at Bale Mill, along with assistance as guides – and with more to come, especially the Rianda House five-year ice cream celebration on May 15.  Mr. Kelperis stressed the obvious: this was a self-starting group.  Kristina outline her forthcoming world travels (Taiwan, India, Turkey, South Africa, Australia).

We also heard from Helen Walka Dake, of Dean York Lane, and a board member of the What If? Foundation.  She gratefully received the donation, brought about the fund-raising efforts of Interact students, in the amount of $1,068.

Cindy Warren, Reporter

Program: Group Study Exchange between France and California

Six members from District 1700 in Toulouse, France are touring California on a  fellowship mission meeting with Rotary groups throughout California. The French District has 2,756 Rotarians split among its many clubs. The District is involved in RYLA, GSE and Student Exchange.  Club projects (Actions) include a District- wide Blood Drive, Hope is Heading (a cinema preview for brain disease research); Food banks, and even  a Ferrari Showcase Day. 
Each representative gave a personal introduction and filled us in on their lives, both professional and personal. These young Rotarians included an Anesthesiologist, Winery Assistant, IT Security Engineer, Lawyer and a Talent & Development Trainer. The future of Rotary International  looks very promising with such energetic and interesting people.

Alyssa Samrick, Reporter

Paul Asmuth, Speaker: A Redwood Forest Planned for St Helena and a Legacy Forest for the Community

Yes, Paul Asmuth is back but this time he isn’t talking about his extraordinary open water Olympic swimming career, instead he’s talking about his plans for a sustainable project of growing a redwood forest right here in our own backyard.

Growing up in Florida, Paul said there were no tree’s like the Redwoods which he spotted at 19 years old while on his first visit to California and the Big Basin area. He went to college and earned a degree in wildlife but ended up with a career as a CPA, however the passion for the outdoors and natural wildlife has never ever left his focus. Paul and his wife Marilyn, envision a 50-acre redwood forest near the city’s wastewater treatment plant at the end of Chaix Lane that would help offset the city’s greenhouse gas emissions and generate revenue through periodic timber harvesting.

“A lot of the land is in the floodway and the floodplain, and there are very few other things we can do with it,” said Asmuth, “This land used to be forested, so in a lot of ways this is a reforestation project.” The project has received the blessing of two committees: the Climate Protection Task Force and the Tree Committee. Both groups have endorsed the project, provided various environmental issues are worked out. The Asmuths would like to plant about 300 coast redwoods per acre. In 15 years, half would be harvested. From then on, 20 percent of the remaining trees would be harvested every five years, resulting in a forest of trees with an average age of 20 years old. When redwoods are harvested, they don’t actually die, their underground root structure remains intact and eventually starts sending up suckers that can be cultivated to form a new tree. Some of the grove would be set aside as a “legacy forest” which wouldn’t be subject to harvesting, where people could donate trees as a goodwill gesture or in tribute to a loved one.

In addition to the proceeds from the harvesting, the trees could produce carbon sequestration credits which could be sold via a state exchange. According to early calculations, the project would sequester anywhere from 350 to 1,650 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually. Rather than entering into a simple lease agreement with Asmuth, in a recent meeting council members said they were interested in a public-private partnership that would give the city a share of the proceeds, however lots of issues are being taken into account and in still in discussions with the city.

This project would be entirely a non- profit. It would be an idea that could be shared with other communities in the Napa and Sonoma area. Paul says that there is plenty of water available for this project and the time to care for the trees would be donated by local farming families to assist in weed management.

Phil Toohey, Reporter
Program: What is going on with the St. Helena Schools

Bill McGuire is the Superintendent for the St.Helena Unified schools. He has RLS, the elementary school and the High School under his management as well as all the county schools. He must have stopped at Starbucks before coming because he rolled thru 18 pages of slides, answered questions and just made the 20 minutes given to him to present. This was all about the “top down” stuff, as I saw it with little to none about the actual students although they were given various honorable mentions.

There were 5 areas covered. The first order of business was Stratigic Planning, the very word sent my scribbling pen into a panic. “High expectations lead to High Achievement” was the banner head on the slide. The quote was “ The vision is inspiring and innovative learning environment for both student and teachers.” The strategic plan implementation is the responsibility of the “Site Councils “ at the elementary, middle and high schools which have been changed into Strategic Plan action teams. I could give you the particulars like folded into this program is the WASC site level related to the programmatic articulation with RLS, but not sure it would help. Suffice to say, there is a new playing field from the National levels of both teaching and learning that are trying to be restructured after the dismal effects of “No child left behind” failed miserably. That last part is a direct quote from a local teacher when this reporter called this teacher to find out what WASC was all about.

The rest of the chat did not go much better. Part two, “Common Core is Coming”, I won’t get into for lack of space. Part 3 was Measure B and C which has been funded in part and money is being released to the school for everything from painting to building stadium restrooms ( I never knew we even had a stadium at the high school ) on the playing field.

Part 4, Budget update went as all budgets go. Seems there is quite a bit of time and energy being spent trying to keep our school tax dollars in St. Helena. The state, which we know is woefully under attack, keeps trying to poach our dollars to help the lesser school districts. 

Part 5: The STUSD is now looking for a new school principle. For some reasoning they keep hiring principles who live out of county and go figure, the last two principals among other issues have finally given in to the commute… don’t get me started on the 55 minutes it took me to get from Napa to St. Helena. The last order of the agenda (part 5B) was the High School pool. Apparently the school has actually purchased a stainless steel not quite Olympic size, pool. Where you store such a thing I have no idea. The next step is to review contractors to get it into the ground.

By Alan Galbraith

Speaker of the Day: Social Media with Gabriel Tuft
Introduced by Bryan Remer, former wrestler Gabriel (“Gabe”) Tuft gave us a fast-moving presentation on the application of social media to small business. He began with key statistics, including that 2 billion of earth’s 7 billion were Internet users and 5 billion were mobile phone users. He then noted that there were one billion Facebook users and 300 million Twitter accounts. Even more surprising, 4 billion videos are viewed daily on YouTube. How then does small business take advantage of this universe? Gabe launched into his mantra, “Engage”, “Direct”, and “Convert”. Small business should be engaged daily in the social media – though some days and times are more effective than others. It should engage in stratagems that direct users back to its website as much as possible. It should ensure that its website is optimized for retail conversions (such as sales). Gabe then launched into a detailed discussion, revealing “secrets” that will engage social media users with your business website.
Bottom line: it was clear, at least to this reporter, that effective use of social media, even at the local Rotary level, requires substantial expertise in social media communication and website design. Go to: http://www.localM2.com.

By Alan Galbraith

Speaker of the Day: Paul Asmuth

Our speaker was acclaimed, world-class swimmer Paul Asmuth. Father Mac introduced Paul. Paul completed 59 professional marathon-swimming races during his career, with significant wins along the way – including the first around Manhattan Island (proving that it is an island) in under seven hours. And Paul’s recognitions are not just outstanding but truly exceptional. Paul was inducted into the International Marathon Hall of Fame in 1982 as an Honor Swimmer and was honored by the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame in 2010. Paul has guided the USA Swimming National Open Water Swimming Team since 2007.

We received a fascinating education in marathon open water swimming. The typical 10K (10,000 meters) race takes around two hours, but swimmers (and their coaches) break it down into segments in their thinking. The swimmers are equipped with chip-containing writs bands, so that the precise time their hands touch the finish line can be recorded – and even after two hours a race can come down to just one or two strokes. Referees are stationed along the open-water course with yellow cards and the dreaded red card, as in soccer. The swimmers swim with jaw (energy) packs, though they replenish just a fraction of the energy consumed. In the typical race the swimmers soon break up into packs – and there is a real strategy, especially as draft is significant, and can significantly advantage swimmers not in the lead.

In 2006, Paul was asked to become involved in oversight of marathon swimmers on the U.S. Olympic Team. He did not like what he saw: “we were arrogant and no good.” That would change in subsequent years, as Paul became more directly involved. The new motto: “fiercest in water and friendliest on the beach.” And, while experiencing a horrible tragedy (the death of key swimmer), the U.S. marathon swimming teams, on both the men’s and women’s sides, are among the strongest in international competition.

It was a fascinating presentation – one that could not help but generate great respect for the sport and its participants.

Paul today is the General Manager of The Napa Valley Reserve, and served on the board of Meadowood.

Speaker of the Day: “Feelings, When Hard Times Happen”. Steven Campbell
Your brain believes everything you tell it. Your feelings don’t come from your brain, but from your beliefs. If you change your beliefs, the feelings will follow. Worry is negative goal setting. If you change your attitude from Pessimism -“Life happens to me”, to Optimism -“I can make choices”, you take more control of your feelings and begin to change your life. . Ditch “the list” as the brain re-imprints that negative thought as if it happened today. Hard times happens in life and your approach to those tough times makes all the difference in your ability to get through them

By Alan Galbraith

Speaker of the Day:  Boy Scout Troop 1

Today was St. Helena Troop 1 day. DeWitt Garlock introduced Scoutmaster Timm Crull. DeWitt noted that the St. Helena Club was a charter organizer of Troop 1 and that we have enjoyed a history of financial and volunteer support for our Troop. Of special mention: the long contribution of Dr. Robert Darter to Troop 1 and scouting. Timm began by bringing forward three outstanding scouts, Gus Conwell (Scout of the Year), Logan Showley (in absentia, away taking a test), and Ryan Stice. Timm stressed the strength of Troop 1 today, at 30 scouts, as opposed to 15 in 2005, following the horrendous lightening accident (with two deaths) at scout outing at Crab Tree Meadows (below Mt. Whitney) in Sequoia National Park.

As Timm noted, scouting teaches critical life skills from the three pillars of scouting: community service, education/advancement, and outings. Timm stressed Troop 1’s outreach efforts to single parent and Hispanic families. Troop 1 is especially blessed with backcountry outings. In contrast, many troops cannot afford even a single outing. Troop 1 enjoys strong community support. It is not constrained by insufficient financial resources. Indeed, only a small portion of its annual expense is raised from the scouts themselves (their annual monetary requirement is 50 per scout). Troop 1 never turns a prospect or scout away from any activity due to financial hardship.

Timm urged Rotarians to suggest scouting to young men, ages 13 to 18, in our community. In reinforcement, Suzan Rada piped up: "Boy scouts are hot." Timm’s presentation concluded with a short slideshow, making us all envious of backcountry camping – and with no electronic devices allowed.

U.S. Policy and the Arab Spring
David Galbraith, U.S. Foreign Services Officer

David Galbraith, son of member Alan Galbraith, who has worked in Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq, enlightened us on the effects of the Arab Spring, which has been described as a Black Swan event. The United State’s interests in the Middle East are oil, combating terrorism, non-proliferation, non-regional hegemony, and Israel’s security and peace. To achieve these goals, the U.S. has recognized that each country in the uprising needs to be addressed in a different way, and we must balance the interests of the people in their countries with our specific goals for that country.

For example, in Egypt, President Obama called for an orderly transition away from Mubarak, while the U.S. did not call for an orderly transition in Bahrain. In Libya the U.S. initiated an intervention, which NATO carried out. In Syria, the U.S. has not initiated this same intervention. In Yemen, the U.S. is concerned with counter-terrorism; in Bahrain, the ports. The U.S. sanctions on Iran have not helped much. While the Arab Spring has not impacted the flow of oil, it has brought new challenges to the U.S. and the world. 

A Meandering Tale about the Napa River

Guest host Shari Gardner treated the club to a very informative presentation about our very own Napa River. Her slide show and narrative focused on the life of the river, its history, and how it has changed over the years.

The watershed of the river flows 55 miles from Mt. St. Helena down to San Pablo Bay, and along the way are 48 separate tributaries and numerous small creeks. The river's salt water estuary is as far inland as Trancas Street. The riparian (I always wanted to use that word) environment includes many types of insect, animal, and plant life, including may flies, dragon flies, snow berries, salmon and steelhead, carp, trout, flounder, kindfishers, and ferns.

The river's use has changed from fishing to transportation and commerce. The area along the river has changed from marshes to vineyards. Current challenges to the river include the loss of the riparian habitat, pollution, high summer temperatures, loss of gravel and of much of the floodplain, and low summer flows. Recently, the flood control project is working to reverse some of the damage done to the river and its environs. Lots of work and research has been done, but lots more is needed. If you would like to volunteer or just learn more about the river, you can e-mail Ms. Gardner at gardner.shari@gmail.com.

Napa County Regional Park Director Speaks
Speakers:  Mike Haley and John Woodbury

There are two things that make our county different than most other places in California and it may be our most treasured thing of all. Napa Valley has a lot of wonderful parks and open spaces. I have a dog that needs to run. I have a need to get some exercise. I want my kids to grow up with a sense of stewardship of the land. All three things the Napa parks and open space address. What I know also is that the state budget is getting thin and cuts have threatened the closure of our parks and open land, and we the people need to take a greater interest.

Mike Haley, who is the new regional parks director, and John Woodbury, the general manager of the Parks and Open Spaces, both talked to our club and gave us a "state-of-the-parks" presentation.  Most people know that Bothe Park and the Grist Mill have been saved as a result of a partnership with the state and a local non-profit to run the parks. The stipulation is that the parks have to break even in the next two years to renew the partnership.

Bothe cannot run on its current day use and camping revenue.  Almost two to one cost to earnings have put the park in the red. Under new management, fees will be increased during high usage periods. The park is restoring older cabins for overnight use. Yerts have been given to the parks for housing for rental. The Wright House on the park property is in renovation and will be available for functions. All elements are being put together to turn the revenue picture around and to keep our local parks and trails open.

Woodbury spent a fair amount of time talking about the lesser-known part of our county, the open lands around Berryessa. The Blue Ridge Trail, Crystal Flat Park, Moore Creek Park, and Spanish Valley are all lesser-known open lands that are incredible to walk. Volunteerism is a hugh part of the picture. If you want to participate, go to www.napaoutdoor.org and look for projects.

Speakers of the Day - Craft Talks

We were treated to two, Kelly Crane with a market update and David Moreland with his personal history from the U.S. Navy to the Queen Bee. 

Past President Kelly Crane reviewed key market indicators. He started with the stock market. With an average price/earning ration of 12.5, stocks seem reasonably priced at this time. Corporate earnings are rising, volatility was down in 2012, and low interest rates provide a good environment for stocks. As to the economy in general, it is “chugging along” at a decent pace. Consumer spending is key. Consumer confidence is below average, a good sign, as it tends to be too optimistic just before the economy tanks. Of the nine million jobs lost in the recession, five million have been regained, with 4 million to go to get back to the starting point. The economy can add about one million jobs per year, so we are looking at four more years to get back to even. Interest rates remain very low, with the Federal Reserve determined to keep them that way in the near future as it seeks to encourage more employment, and inflation does not appear to be a risk. It does so through bond purchases of about $90 billion per month, split evenly between purchases of treasuries and mortgage-backed bonds. In the long term, the Fed will want to raise interest rates to around 5% which will have a negative effect on the price of bonds. As for the national debt, at 72% of GDP, Congress continues to kick the issue down the road. 

David Moreland, born in Canada, moved to Arizona in early childhood. He attended the Naval Academy earning an M.E. degree. He met his wife Leslie on a blind date in his junior year. They married right after his graduation, now nearly 40 years ago. The Navy moved them and, after the ninth time, they decided to move on. David’s first civilian job was as a financial executive with a paper mill in Silicon Valley. When the owner sought to shift him to Chicago, he joined Capital Management Group, which managed about $600 million in assets. When the firm was sold, he and Leslie moved to St. Helena, which was about ten years ago. Over the years, farming has been an avocation for David, though now an occupation. Initially, David owned a cattle ranch (800 head) in North Park, Colorado. The ranch did not make money but the land appreciated in value. Upon sale of the ranch, David acquired a mostly almond ranch (some walnuts) near Chinese Camp in the Sierras.  (California is a major almond producer, at 80% of total market.) This then led him into bees and bee keeping. Bees pollinate almond trees (like much else). And bees are in crisis. David takes his bees to North Dakota and now to Mississippi to strengthen them so that they can do their pollination work on his almond ranch. The bee mortality has approached 50%. The lifespan of the Queen Bee is now thought to be a year, down from two years. David, always the optimist, advises, “It will be figured out.” A bit of good news: bees like it here in Napa. The reason: mustard blossoms.

Every 15 Minutes
Savings Lives by Preventing Underage Drinking and Driving in St Helena

Joel Toller introduced his wife, Lisa Toller, a coordinator for the Catalyst Coalition, a program of the Napa County Office of Education, which works with community members to stop the underage use of alcohol, drugs, and tobacco. Lisa and Diversion Officer, Heather Baker, showed us a video made by St. Helena High School students in which the students, their parents, EMT personnel, and police and fire department members acted. The video staged a drunk-driving accident and is a part of a several-day program which immerses students in the effects of drinking and driving. Not only do the students play the driver, who is subsequently arrested, but also the victims. An accident will actually be staged at some future date, and will be followed with counseling sessions.

The video showed very graphically the devastating effects of drinking and driving. Many in the room were visibly moved. The program, which has already been offered in Calistoga and Napa high schools, will be well-worth the effort if it saves even one life or prevents one student from drinking and driving.

Junior Achievement comes to Rotary

Today's speaker was Craig Underhill, Board Chair at Junior Achievement in Napa County. He is a Rotarian in the Napa Sunrise Club and a partner in the CPA firm of Brotemarkle, Davis & Co. of St. Helena. Under Craig's leadership, the JA program has expanded from 250 participants to over 4,000 annually - these volunteers delivering the JA curriculum while sharing their experiences with students in Napa County. 

Last fall Craig was awarded the President's Volunteer Service Award by President Obama (hear, hear!). Because he is passionate, enthusiastic, and modest about his involvement with the young people of this valley, he brought the impact of Junior Achievement to Rotary today in a practical way by demonstrating how this K-12 program is packaged, structured, and delivered. It is a program that educates students about workforce readiness, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy through hands-on programs. Craig demonstrated some of the inner workings of the program by dividing the attending members into six groups, with each group given a story card with a Global International Trade "issue" to discuss and at least one question to answer. There immediately ensued six lively debates on subjects such as banned food/food safety, furniture imports, and sea turtles. I can report that our group had widely disparate opinions but a consensus was reached. Each group then reported its discussions and views. It was interesting, enlightening, and fun. It was then asked of the members "to what grade level do you think these questions were posed?"  It turns out we were 6th graders for awhile -- I don't remember discussing these kinds of things in 6th grade!

Our Vocational Committee believes JA is a fantastic benefit to students, so it is working to procure/raise funds (the cost of a "kit" is $25 per student) and to develop our involvement in JA within the St. Helena school system. The committee is seeking volunteers, so shake off your jitters and contact Norm Mitroff, chair of the Vocational Committee.

Craft Talks

The first meeting of the New Year led off with craft talks by Warren Warner and your reporter, Alan Galbraith.

Warren is a life-long Napan. Born in Napa, and with occasional forays outside the County, he always headed back, until he ventured forth no more. Warren attended San Diego State University and Napa Valley College. His college sport was baseball. Warren earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Accountancy from California State in Sacramento. He furthered his education by earning a Master of Science Degree in Taxation and an Estate Planning Certificate, both from Golden State University. Warren’s professional career has been almost completely in private accounting practice, with the last 17 years in St. Helena. His firm's current name is Blyth Warner & Associates, LLP, at 1344 Adams Street in St. Helena. Warren has not encountered ethical issues during his many years in private practice. Of course, his clients want to minimize their taxes but tax minimization in and of itself, as Warren noted, does not present an ethical issue. Warren owned up to having read the just enacted “fiscal cliff” tax bill. The balance of his time was spent responding to questions relating to the bill – including his surprise that a number of the provisions were retroactive to the beginning of 2012.

By contrast with Warren, Alan grew up on the East Coast and found his way to Napa through marriage. His wife’s great-grandfather (David Dunlap) was sheriff of Napa County and her grandmother (Amy Coombs Dunlap) was from the Coombs family of Napa City. The family has long owned a ranch east of Napa City, in the Coombsville area. Alan met his wife, Sarah, while research clerks for different Justices of the California Supreme Court. Alan’s legal career was with the Washington, D.C. law firm of Williams & Connolly LLP. The founding partner was Edward Bennett Williams, who was also president of the Washington Redskins. Alan’s cases were largely in the federal trial and appellate courts. His expertise was in the Federal Rules of Evidence and the Federal Rules of Civil and Appellate Procedure. He also developed substantive expertise in contract law, equity jurisprudence, and patent law. He was just rolling into some of his stories when time ran out.

Making Your Mind Your Mentor

High five to our speaker group for bringing guest speaker Steven Campell to our Rotary lunch. Professor Campbell teaches systems thinking at UCSF and discussed how to expand the mind and how it can work to our advantage. The long and short of Professor Campbell's time with us was to show us how the brain functions to put together connections between images the brain stores. These connections help us build thoughts. We can make billions of connections in a second as the brain seeks to keep our thoughts in line with our actions. 

The brain listens to, what Professor Campbell calls our "self-talk." The brain cannot distinguish between right or wrong, true or false. You tell yourself anything and the brain says "OK." The brain will do what you tell it to do every time without question. Tell the brain you can do something and the brain will open up connections to help you do it. Tell the brain “no way” the brain will actually shut down pathways to make sure “no way” happens. I lost my keys. The brain says OK. You go looking for your keys and the brain will create blind spots when looking for your keys because you told the brain they are lost. 

The brain protects us. The brain will not record actual events, but it does record events the way you perceive them to be. The bottom line in the four CDs I bought after the meeting the book on tape of his best seller, “The Mind as a Mentor,” was that hopelessness is a learned condition. The great news about anything that is learned is that it can be unlearned. I found the the world of affirmation fascinating and learned how to not really change the mind as much as expand the mind to include images of a new and improved you. Control your mind and you control the world as you know it to be. Lots of fun to hear him speak.

Note from the Editor:

I hope all members who attended our annual Christmas party on December 12 (12/12/12) enjoyed it as much as I did.

Since we were dark on the 11th, there is no meeting to report, but here's a hat's off to SUZAN RADA and TIM DORAN for the wonderful party. Also thanks to CYNTHIA KEE for being a lovely hostess and getting us all checked in.

To all who helped make the party a success, THANK YOU!

And your Editor promises to report on the Youth Protection Training we had on the 27th of November over the holidays, when there will only be one NairatoR to publish.

Carol Sobczak
Editor

[Editor's Note:  Report of the Nov 27 meeting is forthcoming. I apologize for the delay.]

Napa Valley Vine Trail Coalition

Our speaker today, Chuck McMinn, was introduced by Ted Bystrowski. Chuck explained that the Napa Valley Vine Trail is a grassroots, non-profit organization dedicated to creating a scenic, 47-mile walk/bike/hike trail from the Vallejo Ferry Terminal to Calistoga. Curremntly, 29 organizations are involved in the project.

No vineyard land will be taken out of production and all easements will be voluntary. Provisions will be make for maintenance and upkeep.

Each year, 3 million people are expected to use the Vine Trail, half tourists- half locals, which is projected to have an annual economic return of $75 million.

Estimated costs for construction are $50 million. State/local/federal grants and Measure T will provide $37.5 million. With the $12.5 million net construction cost and $7.5 million maintenance endowment, the Vine Trail needs to raise $20 million.

Creative ways are in place to achieve this fundraising goal.

Past Presidents Day at Rotary

Our lunch time together on November 20th was the first of something I had never seen in all my years in St. Helena Rotary. President Margo Kennedy first put an ad in the newspaper telling of the gathering of 13 past presidents and one current president, then welcoming us warmly as we sat at the head table and had a panel discussion for the program.

Steve Carbone 1989, Hendrick Smeding 1992, Bob Herrick 1993, Joice Beatty 1994, Dave Brotemarkle 1996, Rob Andreae 1997, Phil Toohey 2003, John Sales 2005, Bill Word 2006, Chuck Meibeyer 2007, Carol Sobczak 2008, Wendell Laidley 2009, Kelly Crane 2011, and Margo Kennedy 2012 (moderator) were in attendance. Fourteen years of history of our club stored in these club members was impressive to say the least.

The question of the day was, “What does it mean to be a Rotarian?” Dave Brotemarkle led the group by saying that community service was what it meant to him - think globally, act locally. Joice Beatty reminded us that she was one of the first women to join our club in 1988, which led the way for other women to join. Hendrick Smeding talked about former member Don Hydeloff who brought us the first Winter Ball fundraiser. Wendell Laidley said the kids we have helped across the world as exchange students and with scholarship opportunities at the high school level are what Rotary means to him. Chuck Meibeyer talked about over one million dollars we have given to the Boys and Girls Club and the work in Nicaragua with former member Jake Scheideman. Steve Carbone discussed friendship - the more you know, the more you love the men and women who serve. Bill Word said that being a president was a wonderful experience and if any member is asked to do more, he or she should say "yes." Kelly Crane talked about the obligation we have to the world at large to serve at a higher standard of participation. Carol Sobczak spoke about being able to count on our members who follow the Four-Way Test.

John Sales has been in Rotary in Zurich, the Philippines, Cairo, and London. He has seen Rotary all over the world. He spoke of his time with Rotoplast, helping kids with cleft palates. Rob Andreae said our St. Helena Club was one of the first in California in 1926. He was most proud of Rotary Centennial Park in front of our high school which he and Jeff Epps championed. Bob Herrick reminded us that it is a privilege to be a Rotarian and the obligation that goes with it. Phil Toohey spoke of Rotary being part of a family.

The second question was "What will be our legacy?" It was agreed that we are living our legacy, that Rotary means hope to the world, that our Avenue of Service to our youth is a big part of our legacy, and that our legacy is the actions we take, not the choices we make. Thinking big is our legacy. Follow your passion.

Everyone thanked President Margo for her thought and effort putting the meeting together. She worked hard to make this happen and made a wonderful afternoon. St. Helena Rotary has over 100 years of service. I know that I can say I am proud of the work our little club has done for our town and the world. St. Helena Rotary is the little club that could, the little club that can, and, most importantly, the little club that DOES.

Freedom, Unity, Law - America’s Religion and the Religion of Modernity
Dr. Richard Hyde

Father Mac introduced our visiting Rotarian, Dr. Richard Hyde, who gave us a visual tour of Washington D.C. monuments and their relevance to our national core values of Freedom, Unity, and Justice. Dr. Hyde’s study started with ancient Athens and the values it espoused. The similarities are astounding and these basic core values have not changed over all the years. Dr. Hyde showed us how these values are embodied in buildings all over the District:

"Freedom" ("Liberty") in the Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, WWII Memorial.
"Unity" in the U.S. Capitol, with the beautiful female statue on the dome, Viet Nam Memorial, Andrew Jackson statue in front of the White House, Washington Monument (the obelisk is a ray of sunshine), Alexander Hamilton statue.
"Justice" in the U.S. Supreme Court building.

Emotional Cardiology
Tom Amato

Our speaker was Tom Amato, Executive Director of the Napa Valley Youth Advocacy Center. He introduced us to the concept of “emotional cardiology.” It is directed toward youths at risk. Its goal is to reduce high-risk behavior through “Core Values,” namely Unconditional Love, Emotional Depth, Advocacy, Innovation, Mentorship, and Communication.

Tom is an educator. He has worked with youth for 40 years. He began his career teaching biology. He did not connect with one youngster in his class of 25, and soon with none of 25. He learned that he was not there to teach subjects but to teach kids.

Tom’s specialty is kids with emotional needs. These are fourth graders on up. These are kids who are hemorrhaging emotion, not just bleeding it. They have wounded, broken hearts. They have made poor choices. He runs toward them, when most are running away from them. They are seeking acceptance, forgiveness, and knowing that they are loved. Tom concluded that he is a realistic idealist. That is as far down from pure idealism that he would come!

Rotoplast and Other Good Works
Past District Governor Michael J. Fish

Rotarian Michael J. Fish, an attorney from Marin County and a Past District Governor presented a moving presentation on how Rotary affects everyone - those who receive but especially those who give.

Mr. Fish has quite a resume as a past District Governor, Paul Harris Fellow, recipient of three Rotary Presidential Citations for in-depth Rotary service, and recipient of two of The Rotary Foundation's highest honors - the Citation for Meritorious Service and the Distinguished Service Award.

Mr. Fish has served as the Area Coordinator for North America of the Rotary Community Corps Task Force as well as the Hunger Task Force. He most recently served as Chairman of the Board of Rotoplast International, Inc., providing free cleft palate and cleft lip surgery to indigent children all over the world.

Mr. Fish drove home the point that Rotary changes people's lives, illustrating this fact with two compelling accounts of Rotarian involvement in the medical field. One story demonstrated how a complacent member in a Houston, Texas club quickly converted to charitable warrior after being assigned a simple task of driving a child from his home to a medical appointment. The member quickly transformed his self-centered attitude into a desire to help this child recover and to getting his family on secure financial footing. This single interaction led to committee leadership within the club and expansion of charitable services into the community. Clearly the life of this Rotarian was changed and so were the lives of hundreds more.

Mr. Fish also recounted some of his experiences with Rotoplast in supporting the medical teams providing surgical procedures to children in foreign countries. Although these trips involve long hours, little sleep and overwhelming need, the rewards are tremendous and the families that are helped benefit greatly. The lives of the children, their families, and the Rotary volunteers are forever changed through Rotoplast.

YOUTH! YOUTH! YOUTH!

Today was a celebration of YOUTH at our weekly meeting.  Wow do we have a lot to celebrate in the youth of our community (and beyond)! This was a three-part meeting. On we go . . .

PART ONE:  Cindy Warren introduced Dana Cronin and Joseph Davis, two of our high school students who attended the Rotary Youth Leadership Award ("RYLA") camp this past summer. Both are also members of the Interact Club, Dana being a co-president. They showed us a fabulous video (that the RYLA kids made) of their five days at camp. They attended camp in Occidental CA with about 70 other high school students, and those who were interviewed in the video remarked that the week changed their life.

How? Why? It's hard to pin-point, but each morning there was a motivational speaker. Two meals per day were cooked by local Rotary Clubs. (That must have been it.) Each camper chose a duty to work on all week, such as the yearbook, the video, and the like. They played volleyback and had a dance and a campfire each night. Dana and Joseph both thanked us for giving them this wonderful opportunity to meet new friends, learn new things, and create memories that will last forever.

PART TWO:  Our Interact Club has been very busy this year. Dana and Joseph presented another video (these kids are talented) which was a vignette of their projects this year, including recycling, making tie-dyed T-shirts, beach clean-up, food drives, fasting for Haiti hurricane victims in connection with the "What If" Foundation.  A busy year!

PART THREE:  Andy Bartlett then introduced our "rebound" exchange student Georgia McClain and our inbound exchange student Christian Corcuera from Spain. They just returned from a "Blues Buster" weekend in San Francisco. Andy explained that the exchange students arrive at their destination in August, and by about October are starting to get homesick; thus, the "Blues Buster" weekend. Georgia and Christian told us about the fun they had walking across the Golden Gate Bridge, going to Union Square, Chinatown, and Fisherman's Wharf. But Christian was most impressed by the Oakland Raiders game that they attended. Besides meeting the cheerleaders (what could beat THAT?), Christian was flabbergasted by the enthusiasm and passion of the Raider Nation. He was pretty nearly speechless!

Volunteering at St. Helena Hospital

Dr. Robert Peeks

Dr. Peeks was our guest speaker today. He spoke to the club on volunteerism in the United States generally, and his work at St. Helena Hospital.

With 82 million volunteers in the nation, Dr. Peeks came to our lunch to tell us what it is like to be a volunteer at St. Helena Hospital.  Dr. Peeks is relatively new to our area as he moved to Cobb Mountain to retire from down in the LA area. He was at a meeting with a few friends and it was suggested that with his background he might consider taking up leading the volunteer staff at the hospital. He accepted the position.

Dr. Peeks told us that the number one reason for hospital volunteerism is that you become part of a family of friends. Young people volunteer to get to know the workings of a hospital with the hopes of someday working there or choosing a career in Health Care. Older folk choose to volunteer as it gives them a reason to get out of the house and be in community. Both my wife and I have thought about applying. She is good at retail and I feel pretty good about learning brain surgery although I am not sure that is on the list of volunteer duties. The fact is that getting to know the hospital and its working is something each one of us could benefit from. I brought home the brochure and learned that volunteer work can be on any number of levels: clerical, gift shop, patient care, patient greeter, business support  - all are on the list of volunteer work to be done. 

Did you know that volunteering can improve your health and self-esteem? It can lower rates of depression.  Adults say that volunteering helps them lead healthier lives and experience higher levels of optimism. To find out more call or visit St. Helena Volunteer Services at 707-963-6575.

Update - Capital Facilities Plan

Phase 1 of Measure B is almost complete with $33 million spent to date. 

The following were included in that measure:

• 25,000 sq. ft. Vocational Ed complex comprised of an Ag Mechanics building, Horticultural Building, 5,000 q. ft. Culinary Building, animal barn with stalls, and Ag classrooms

• RLS portable classrooms on the 6th grade quad

• Deferred maintenance at the High School, RLS, primary and elementary schools

Phase 2 is school bond Measure C for $30 million which will be on the November ballot. This bond would be a new tax at $22 per $100,000 of assessed value of residents of St. Helena.

Measure C is for:

• $13 million replacement of the high school auditorium, which has been condemned (the state will chip in $1.9 million)N
• New pool at the high school - $3.5 million
• 21st century technology upgrades
• District-wide classroom modernization
• Play structures

Supt. McGuire invited everyone to the RLS Phase 1 Grand Opening on September 12 from 4 pm to 6 pm. For more info on Measures B and C, go to www.sthelena.k12.ca.us.

Amistad International

Our Rotary meeting of August 21st was graced by Karen Katoske, the CEO and chief of Amistad International.  Karen is a local girl whose father worked for St. Helena Hospital until his retirement. While Karen still has a home in Deer Park, she lives and runs Amistad out of her home in Palo Alto. Karen was a dental hygienist until she went full time with her foundation.

This talk was different than most I have heard at conferences or other places. Karen runs Amistad as an IRC section  501(c)3 entity and covers many different and diverse programs from Mexico to Zimbabwe. Most of what you hear is someone doing a project in one part of the world, but Amistad, which means “friendship,” works in three continents in seven different countries.

Karen showed pictures of school buildings to water projects to micro loans, and this reporter got a sense that she was a hands-on woman. Her foundation is kept under $1 million so she can keep up with every project. Some projects are born out of grant applications, but others are simply begun by word-of-mouth from friends who tell Karen that she needs to take a closer look at what a recipient might be doing. What I did get from Karen was that she had a servant’s heart. I have been in the NGO world and it takes a thick skin to survive, not just money. Karen started this foundation from work that she continues to do in Mexico in the high plains. The roots of her service was when she was dropped off in a small Cessna airplane as a dental hygienist in the middle of Mexico with the words, “We will be back to get you in a few days. Good luck.”

There is such need in the world. I left the meeting that day feeling rather good. I felt good because people like Karen were standing at the ramparts of humanity trying to make a difference. It has been a lifelong dream of mine to just try to make a difference and steward this world I am renting from my daughter. Karen is there holding up this atlas and knowing she and others like her are there, well that’s good enough for me. Pretty sure that’s why I did not just join Rotary St. Helena, but am part of an international effort to help lift up those who can't.

Wildlife & Beltway Vortex

Newly minted Blue Badger Judd Howell treated us to a history of the Patuxent Wildlife Research Center with its Director (Judd) ending up in the Oval Office (the ultimate vortex). President Roosevelt created the Center by Executive Order in 1936. The Center was dedicated in 1939. Its locale is near Laurel, MD, between Washington, D.C. and Baltimore. By the mid-1930s, there was general appreciation that wildlife was suffering from the build-out of the United States, and especially from agriculture, which was substantially reducing wetlands.  A harbinger of things to come was the disappearance of the Passenger Pigeon, which in earlier times had clouded the skies of the continental US. The last one died in a zoo in the 1920s.

Today, the Center oversees 17 Biological Research Centers around the country. Its reach is truly amazing, from biological surveys, bird banding, breeding bird surveys, native bee studies, the Florida Manatee Project, controlled exposure studies (e.g. the causal effect of DDT on eggshells through digestion), studies of wildlife diseases (avian influenza), and the Whooping Crane Research & Propagation Project (cranes taught to fly from Wisconsin to Florida, following an ultra-light aircraft).  Judd illustrated these activities and others in a fast-moving slide show.

The highlight was the “vortex.” The Center was seeking to move forward with an $82 million modernization project. President George W. Bush paid a visit to the Center.  Judd captured him, with the aid of whooping cranes.  And so from tour, to ride in the presidential van (First Lady in the jump seat), to White House, to $82 million – and a good look at a tree planted by President Jackson (yes, Jackson, not Johnson).  Bottom line: “Things can get done,” even in the vortex!  And, as Judd concluded, we need more of this, not less.

• Politicians who want to leave a legacy. (Erie Canal, Transcontinental RR- Abe Lincoln; Interstate Highway System- Eisenhower; Big Dig- Ted Kennedy, etc.)
• The Obama administration
• Interest groups who benefit from the project: Contractors, suppliers, labor unions, etc.
• Public Organizations and Special Interest groups.
• It will get cars off the road.

• Legislators are concerned over the lack of funding for the project.
• Is it the best use of California taxpayer’s dollars?
• Will it cut into funding for education?
• Will people actually use it?
• How will it be managed?
• The project claims speeds up to 230 mph. With the stops along the way, the average speed of the train will be about half that .
• Farmers- Several Central Valley Counties have filed suit to have the project stopped as it would destroy their land and farming communities.

Reporter: Cindy Warren

Welcome to new Rotary President, Margo Kennedy who had a stunning first day on the job.. The theme this year is “Peace and Service”.

Speaker: Congressman Mike Thompson, D. California, introduced by Chuck Meibeyer. Also present, Brad Aldorado, Mike Thompson's District representative.

Congressman Thompson gave an update on what is going on in Washington, D.C., and at the state and local level:

• Recent redistricting in California, which is done every 10 years. Our current District 1 will become District 5 . The change will move Napa County from the current rural district into one with more urban areas.
• A new voter policy with the top 2 vote-getters in the primary moving to the general election., regardless of political party.
• He successfully got language into the studies for the St. Helena Flood Project.
• Diane Dillon testified in D.C. about federal recognition of the Wappo Indians. This could jeopardize our agricultural economy as the Wappos could place casinos in Napa and Sonoma County.
• The Healthcare ruling was handed down by the Supreme Court.
• The transportation bill has passed the House.
• Student Loan legislation was passed.
• Congressman Thompson stressed the importance of both sides working together.
• Congressman Thompson stated that the contempt of Congress vote against Attorney General Eric Holder was politically motivated.
• Thompson said “The Tea Party folks in Congress are Obstructionists”. He went on to say they were creating chaos in Congress.
• Though many think congress is in Lame Duck mode, there is much to address before the November election: Estate Taxes; R&D tax credits; Conservation; Bush Tax cuts expiring; Payroll Tax cuts are expiring; Unemployment benefits are expiring.
• The U.S. has a National Security issue with Iran.

Reporter: Alan Galbraith

Theme of the Day: “Honor the Past; Deserve the Present” (from the Latin)

Speaker’s Presentation:

Our luncheon speakers were St. Helena High School History teacher Frank Mazzi and history (student) buff Randy McKay. Frank teaches an elective history class, The World War 1 American Experience. It is thought to be the only World War 1 (“WW1”) high school history class in the country. The current goal is a film, to be premiered at our own Cameo Theatre, that brings together oral histories, including that of the last surviving WWI veteran, along with illustrative material, including never seen before WW1 photographs (from the Army Signal Corps) as well as vintage WWI posters (“Uncle Sam wants you!”). We were treated to the Trailer for the film in the making. The Trailer was gripping. Overall objective: do not forget “the forgotten war” (though those of us of a certain age could not possibly forget).

Frank began with Frank Buckles, the last American surviving veteran of WWI. Mr. Buckles lived in South Charleston, W.Va., a community that has continuously honored Armistice Day. Frank learned that Mr. Buckles was to serve as co-Grand Marshall in the annual Armistice Day parade, and, working through the Visitor’s Bureau, arranged to meet Mr. Buckles at an Armistice Day dinner in his honor. Mr. Buckles then enthusiastically agreed to an depth interview and filming. This came about on November 8, 2008 at Mr. Buckles’ old family home and homestead (400 acres). Mr. Mazzi and two St. Helena high school students (now in college) spent the better of the day with Mr. Buckles (now 107). Their interview is accessible on-line through the Library of Congress website. (Mr. Buckles would live to be 110.)

Frank explained that the goal is to present WWI through the oral histories of 25 men and women. This then led Frank into a graphic description of the horrors of WWI, including the 116,000 U.S. troops who perished in the conflict, the many more who succumbed to infection from exposure to mustard gas, and the slaughter that continued through the last fifteen minutes, right up until the moment the Armistice took hold at 11:00 a.m. on November 11, 1918. Frank stressed the importance of understanding the past to an understanding of the present, and reminded us of the gratitude that we owe to our ancestors as we “enjoy the sweet earth.”

High school student Randy is chief editor of the film project. He showed us the Trailer for the film. It started with a series of “Enlist Today” posters. It had old footage of tanks and artillery shelling. Of special note was logo and emblem (stated in the Theme of the Day). As Randy noted, the integration of old photos into film footage is laborious, but of course it is the creative process that brings the still images to life. The professionalism rivaled that of Paramount studios.

Reporter: Cindy Warren

Speaker: Paul Zamarian, Great Seal Foundation. Introduced by Stevenson Atherton.       

“The Great Seal: Our Public Secret”

Every country has an official seal, which authenticates a document. The creation of the U.S. Great Seal began in 1776. It took six years and designs from 3 committees to create the Great Seal. One side was the eagle and the other a pyramid with an eye. It was finally adopted in 1782. The eagle was widely accepted but the pyramid design became obscure.

In 1884 a law was passed to complete both sides of the Official Seal with $1000 appropriated to Tiffany to do the work. Upon completion, a panel of three decided they didn’t like the pyramid side and it once again, went back into obscurity. A dye was struck of the eagle side only.

FDR discovered the pyramid design and wanted it put on the dollar bill, where it stands today opposite the eagle.

The Eagle holds 13 arrows and an olive branch with 13 leaves. The shield has 13 stripes. A banner above the eagle says “e pluribus unum”.

The pyramid represents a solid foundation. The eye represents “Annuit Coeptis” -Eye of divine Providence. “Novus ordo seclorum” means New Order of the Ages.

Ted Bystrowski, Reporter

Speaker: John Woodbury, “The Campaign to Save Bothe-Napa Valley State Park and the Bale Grist Mill State Historic Park”.

John Woodbury is a Napa County employee contracted full time to serve as the General Manager of the Napa County Regional Park and Open Space District. He Staffed a citizens advisory committee in 2005 that recommended the County support the formation of the park and open space district, and resulted in voter approval of the District in 2006. Prior to working in Napa, John was Executive Director for 12 years of the Bay Area Open Space Council, a non-profit organization that supports park districts and land trusts in the San Francisco Bay Area.

The mission of the Napa County Regional Park and Open Space District is to protect, restore, enhance and steward the open space resources of Napa County, and to provide opportunities for the public to learn about and experience these natural resources. The Distric has to date committed to owning and/or managing 10 open space parks and regional trails in protecting over 6,200 acres of open space.

Most importantly, the District has just reached a five year agreement with the Sate of California, Department of Parks and Recreation to operate and manage the 1900 acre Bothe-Napa Valley State Park and the Bale Grist Mill State Historical Park. The District agreement to operate these two parks will prevent them from being closed by the State of California. These parks have over 60,00 visitors annually and add more that $1.6 million annually to the local economy. The District will partner with the local Napa Valley State Parks Association to operate the Bale Grist Mill.

The District has no dedicated tax basis; it revenues come from a mix of grants, donations and program income. There have been many people throughout the San Francisco Bay Area that have volunteered their time to improve the new Napa open space areas and park facilities. The District has within its’ first six years become a great investment for Napa County.

The State of California spent $2 for every $1 the Bothe-Napa Valley State Park and the Bale Grist Mill State Historical Park made. The Districts challenge is to make these parks breakeven by increasing the revenue they generate. However, in order to operate and manage these parks it is critical that the District continues to receive support from the local community. If you with to volunteer your time or donate money please call 707-259-5933 or email jwoodbury@ncrposd.org.

Carol Sobczak - Reporter

RYLA - “One of the Greatest Weeks in Our Live" - our Rotary HIGH SCHOOL SCHOLARS

This reporter was lucky once again to report on youth issues. Today, Andy Bartlett introduced this year’s Rotary Youth Leadership Award winners, Dana Cronin and Joseph Davis, who will attend the RYLA camp this summer.

Last year’s winners, Kristina Ericson and Ian McCaffrey, showed us photos of last year’s RYLA camp and talked about what a wonderful experience it was. For five days, 75 campers worked on improving their people skills, public speaking skills, and participated in activities including sports and listening to motivational speakers. Each one actually said it was “one of the greatest weeks in my life.” Ian had such a great time he is going to be a counselor next year, and every year thereafter “that they’ll have me.”

Cindy Warren introduced the two high school scholarship winners. The winner of the Rotary Scholarship, in honor of Roger Adams, was none other than Kristina Ericson, who read us her paper answering the question, “How Does Community Service Promote Peace in Our World?” Kristina will attend the Global College of Long Island University and study in about 12 foreign countries.

The winner of the Elwood Mee Scholarship, which goes to a student who will major in agriculture, was none other than Ian McCaffrey. He read his paper entitled, “The Most Important Issue Facing Agriculture Today.” That issue -- WATER. Ian will attend UC Davis in the fall.

Thanks to Joel Toller for our thought of the day.

Phil Toohey, Reporter

PROGRAM: Are You the One? The Boys and Girls Club of St. Helena and Calistoga

May 15, Tuesday Frank Sottile brought 15 of his youth and some parents to join us for a welcome, a Rotary lunch and an update on the Boys and Girls Club, as the new caterers were having a cardiac arrest from the overload. (I guess no one told them the lunch count doubled.)

Before I launch into the particulars I would like to beg a private moment to say how happy I am to be a Rotarian. When I hear the stories of children who through no fault of their own are left destitute for whatever reason, I want to help. Every time I want to help. That’s just the kind of guy I am. I want to save the world one child at a time. Last night I went to bed thinking of these kids - by the way 1,862 kids last year in St. Helena and Calistoga used the Boys and Girls Club - I felt good because as difficult as some of their stories were, we as St. Helena Rotarians have given almost 2 million of our club dollars over the past 23 years to keep the boys and Girls Club running and help build their building.

The Boys and Girls Club started in 1989. It was first started in the Catholic School then moved to the gym then to portables on the Elementary School Property then into their own building. They serve 200 kids a month, 296 in March. They run a one million budget one third is private donation, the rest from the state and county. The population is 57% Latino and 41% Caucasian. There are two, actually 3 locations to serve you, St. Helena, Calistoga and the Calistoga teen center. The Club works with the county Sheriff’s department for at risk kids and their homework club in St. Helena raised test scores an average of 10 points in Math and 12 points in English.

This was awards day. The Boys and Girls Club give out four awards that mirror Rotary’s four way test. Clarissa Hernandez got the Honesty award. Gabriel Roche got the Trustworthy award. Samara (Sam) got the Goodwill Ambassador award and Christian Vazquez got the Respectfulness award.

Are you the one? Who will love and support the kids in their time of need? The one who will support the teachers, coaches and mentors when these kids are broken? The one who will aide and support those dealing with “at risk kids”? The answer is yes to all. You are St. Helena Rotarians from the little club that could, the little club that can, the little club that does.

Reporter: Alan Galbraith 

Theme of the Day: Interaction with Interact 

Our Interact Advisor Suzan Sculatti introduced St. Helena High School teacher and Interact Faculty Advisor Jason Kelperis. Mr. Kelperis began his remarks by noting that there an ebb and flow to Interact participation – and for now it is all about “flow.” Yes, there is an element of coercion in “persuading” adolescents to engage in volunteer activities, but they also come to recognize the importance of community service projects. He noted that Interact plays an important role in pulling non-Interact high school students into community service projects. Mr. Kelperis especially focused on the unifying theme of gardening projects – including the “Farm to Table” curriculum. He is appealing to members of all service clubs to show their support for gardens throughout the St. Helena Unified School District. Mr. Kelperis concluded by introducing the current president of Interact, Kristina Ericson.

Kristina introduced the several members of the Interact Club who were also present at the luncheon: Marla Ericson, Emily Griffin, Nicole Lemieux, Marie Masyczek, and Madeline Oliver. Overcoming mechanical difficulties with confidence and grace, Kristina presented a short video illustrating the activities of the Interact Club. It began with Club Rush Day. The Club promotes recycling through “recycling games.” It spends a day annually at Beach Cleanup (Doran Beach). It works with a biologist, checking on the health of beach creatures, especially sand dabs. It is involved with Nature Trail Cleanup in Napa County. It promotes fall and spring food drive, with last fall’s food drive collecting 1400 pounds of food, a new record. It promotes “Fast for Haiti,” in which Club members fast for a day, collecting pledges to aid young Haitians. Club members attend Interact Camp (with other Clubs), camping in yurts. Its last activity for the year, fast approaching, is encouraging all seniors to walk to Senior Prom (at Merryvale Winery).

Kristina stressed that the Club truly appreciated the support that it has received from Rotary. Our (very dedicated) emissaries are Interact Advisors Andy Bartlett (10 years) and Suzan Sculatti (8 years). They offer encouragement and support at the High School every Monday evening.

Cindy Warren, Reporter

PROGRAM: “Silverado Orchards, Retirement Living is a Family Affair”
Speakers: Cary Baldwin, Janelle Ross

Cary Baldwin grew up helping out in the family business, Silverado Orchards, which opened on November 1,1978. His grandfather Meade Baldwin was a prominent St. Helenan. Cary has taken over as the Head of the facility.

Silverado Orchards has 95 rooms and employs 84 people. It is an independent living facility, though some residents have caregivers. Silverado Orchards provides meals, housekeeping, meals, transportation and activities to the residents. Over the past 34 years not one meal has been missed. The seniors enjoy shows and visits from local service organizations, youth groups and sponsored educational programs. They have taken “field trips” to such places as the Charles Schulz Museum and trips to San Francisco via the Vallejo Ferry.

The need for Retirement Living facilities has greatly increased and will continue to do so. The Baby Boomers are now at retirement age. In 2009 there were 39.6 million seniors 65 and older. By 2050, there will be 88.5 million. We are fortunate to have an outstanding facility like Silverado Orchards to serve our community.

Carol Sobczak, Reporter

YOUTH EXCHANGE - from Sicily to St Helena

Andy Bartlett introduced our current Inbound Exchange Student, Maria Victoria Gurrieri (fondly known as “Mavi”), along with two sets of her host parents, Jill & Darrell Quirici and Lisa Drinkward and Les Behrens. Also introduced were St Helena High School principal Julie Synard and vice-principal Ben Scinto. To round out such an illustrious gathering were Gemma Aquilina, our Rebound Student, and Chip Decker, who is Outbound next school year.

This reporter hopes she spelled everyone’s name correctly and, if not, she apologizes profusely in advance!

Mavi gave us an informative presentation about her native land of Sicily which, as she boasted, is farther south on its southern edge than the most northern part of Africa. (I’m getting my atlas out tonight!). Mavi first showed us a video she made on how much she loves Sicily, to thank us for our support, and to show how our two cultures are different, yet similar. We were all taken aback by the subjects that Mavi learns in school, such as Greek language and literature, and Latin language and literature. Her school is in a 17th-century building (how cool is that) and most kids old enough ride Vespas to school. We were amused when she said she was afraid she would gain 30 pounds here because of MacDonalds and Burger King, but I don’t think she has gained an ounce! We do keep our students busy here!

 Thanks to the host families, to Andy, and to Suzan Sculatti who work so hard with our youth. And a posthumous thanks to Roger Adams, who held a place in his heart for all our students. This reporter definitely felt his presence in our meeting room today.

 Thanks to Frank Sottile for a lovely thought of the day, an American Indian saying that reminded this reporter of our four-way test.

Phil Toohey, Reporter

PROGRAM: Sara Cakebread speaks on the St. Helena Family Center

What is a community but the members of that community? What makes a diverse community thrive? The answer is making each member feel like he or she is a part. The reason people leave any organization is simply that they feel as individuals, left out. Yet another reason that I am a member of our local Rotary club is that Donn Black brings us great speaker like Sara Cakebread who is the director of the Family Center and while enjoying my lunch and fellowship I get to hear front and center what our community is doing to support the “between the crack” guys. We ask so much of people just trying to live life in St. Helena and sometimes you need an advocate to help them manage. Paying taxes is a nightmare even for the most equipped. The struggle to get bills paid when you don’t speak or read English. When you are given 17 hours to vacate your rental 4 days before Thanksgiving, where do you go?

The St. Helena Family Center sits right next to its landlords, the Presbyterian Church at 1440 Spring St. I must have passed it a million times. Our own Wendell Laidley and Christine Gorelick sit on the board. In 2011 it served 600 families and saw 1863 individuals at least one time if not on multiple times. Programs like Healthy Family Dynamics, Claro and Clara and 24/7 Dad are just a few of the outreach this tiny little house of a practice provides. Help with bill payments, Zumba classes and child advocacy are all part of the umbrella service that are provided for free.

You know they say a joy shared is a joy made double a sorrow shared is but half a trouble. My Rotary ethic tells me that we can share the sorrow and one member at a time makes a difference. This week I am going to go over to the Family Center and take a tour. Que tenga buen dia.

Reporter: Alan Galbraith

Program: Library Good News/Bad News Day

Our speaker was Jennifer Baker, Library Director. She also attends meetings of the Library Foundation’s Board of Trustees. She therefore speaks to the perspectives of both organizations.

First, the good news: The St. Helena Library for the last five years has been rated the best library in California by Library News. It is a “STAR” library. Without doubt, this is an extraordinary achievement for a small library in a small city. Jennifer stressed that the library was the most used facility in St. Helena, with 12,000 users a month. Last year, about 250,000 items were checked out of the Library. Further, a library card enables its holder to access about 1.2 million items. Jennifer described in detail the broad range of programs available at the library, including programs aimed at improving use of computer technology (Facebook classes on Fridays of this month, for example) and on-line resources available through the Library. Of course, a major focus of a library is literacy, and Jennifer stressed the importance of literacy programs for young kids. After-school programs are crucial, especially in the summertime – so as to avoid dilution of what was previously learned. Beyond that, Jennifer stressed the “rebranding” of the library, so that it was not just a place to look for books, but a true community center, even to the point of couches for an afternoon nap (for youngsters – not aging Rotarians). The library has sponsored a swing dance, a jazz concert, and is looking forward soon to a Salsa session. The library is stressing Spanish language programming for children and adults. With all that said, it remains a place to enjoy a book.

But, now, the bad news: the library has lost $185,000 in crucial State funding. While the City general fund (at $1.1 million annually) supports the physical facility and staff, the State funding supported a number of vital library programs. This includes monies for SNAP participation (interlibrary loans), internet access, media purchases (newspapers, magazines, books), training, office supplies, Spanish language programming and community digital education. The issue, then, is replacement of the $185,000.

Cindy Warren, Reporter

SPEAKER: Janet Viader, Viader Vineyards and Ann Steinhauer, Napa Valley Vintners Assn

“Napa Valley ROCKS! What makes Napa Valley a superior wine growing region”.

Napa Valley Info:

• The Napa Valley produces 4% of California wine.
• The valley is 30 miles long and 5 miles wide, comprising 45,000 acres.
• Only 9% of this acreage is planted to grapes.
• 77% of Napa Valley Vintners produce less than 10,000 cases per year. 95% are family owned and operated.

The Napa Valley is unique due to its Mediterranean style climate. Only 2% of the world has this type of climate characterized by a long growing season, and no summer rain. Marine fog adds cooling effects and maintains acidity for better balance and temperature variations.

The first vines were planted by George Yount. The first wineries were Charles Krug and Inglenook. Phyloxera wiped out the vines in the late 1800’s. Prohibition wiped out the industry leaving only 5 wineries out of 150. Those 5 wineries were making “church” wine.

The Napa Valley Vintners Assn. was formed in 1944. The mission is “To promote, protect and enhance the Napa Valley Appellation and its wines”.

The Napa Valley Vintners Assn. is responsible for:

• The first Ag Preserve (1968) in the U.S...
• The preservation of this land has kept our valley from becoming Silicon Valley.
• Napa Green Land and Winery program which enhances the watershed and restores habitat.
• Enhancing the Napa Valley “Caring for our Community” program labeling and trademark protection: 75% of grapes must come from the Napa Valley

Over the years, the Napa Valley Vintners Assn. has donated $100,000,000 back to our community. Their promotions and auctions include Auction Napa Valley, Premier Napa Valley, Taste of Napa Valley, Master Napa Valley, Symposiums for Professional Wine writers and the Wine Educators Academy.

Michele Neumann, Reporter

Speaker: Pamela S. Chanter, “Drinking Water- A chance for a life in the Amazon Rainforest”.

Pam Chanter is an owner of VANTREO Insurance Brokerage in Santa Rosa and spoke to us about her efforts to bring clean drinking water to villages along the two main tributaries of the Amazon River in Peru. These rivers in this region have become highly polluted from oil drilling, gold mining and other sources. St. Helena Rotary club member, Michele Neumann, has accompanied Pam to the Amazon twice in the past 10 years.

It is shocking to hear that one in five children under the age of five dies from the polluted and disease-infested waters, primarily from dysentery. Today, the number of indigenous people are only at 10% of what they were 100 years ago. The largest city in the region, Iquitos, with 600.000 people, does not have a wastewater treatment plant, so the raw sewage adds further pollution to the river.

The good news is that there have been efforts by Pam’s teams and several Rotary clubs to build permanent water catchment systems in the villages to improve the lives of the indigenous people.

Since 2005 five systems have been built and two more will be built this June 2012. Most recently Pam has been working with the “Engineers Without Borders” to build the systems, and their NGO and non-profit partner is Amazon Promise. Amazon Promise has been providing medical and dental campaigns and other services for 18 years and also provides the hygiene training for the villages.

Several years ago five clubs in Sonoma County and two in Southern California worked together to obtain a matching grant of $24,000 to help build several of the water systems. Two engineering firms also did pro-bono work to help design the catchment system. While many ideas were considered, the system could not have parts to be maintained or use chemicals.

So, the water systems have consisted of large cement or plastic tanks that collect the rainwater. Keep in mind that it rains nearly every day in the rain forest! This project helps maintain the indigenous population, the caretakers of the rain forest.

Cindy Warren, Reporter

Wind power is not a new concept to society. It has been in existence forever. During the 19th century and the Industrial Revolution, we started seeing the
ological changes brought on by wind power. In today’s world, we need a combination of wind, solar and nuclear power. The U.S. must increase it’s wind turbines to meet energy goals, but it comes at a price. For example, the Altamont Pass has 6000 turbines. The Altamont Pass is also home to golden eagles, red-tailed hawks, rabbits and ground squirrels. The birds perch on the towers and blades and have been killed doing so. The spinning turbines create barometric pressure that affects bats and birds. Studies have been done and some remedies are in place to diminish the deaths of birds and bats through acoustic interference and motion cameras. Though wind power contributes to decreased avian populations, it falls near the bottom of the spectrum compared to avian deaths from buildings, power lines, autos, cats, etc.

Cindy Warren, Reporter

SPEAKER: Susan Hoff, Best Buy Children’s Foundation

“Corporate Generosity”

Best Buy started in 1966 in St. Paul, Mn. as a single store called Sound of Music. The store sold only audio goods. The store, now Best Buy, grew throughout the Midwest and eventually expanded nationally. The name was changed to Best Buy in 1984. By 1994 Best Buy was a Fortune 500 Company. Today there are 1,107 stores in the US alone and $50 billion in sales.

Susan Hoff, whose father started Best Buy, started working there in high school and continued to work in many capacities through college. A medical experience with her 2 year sold son inspired Susan to reach out to other kids. She has been instrumental in the Best Buy philosophy of corporate giving back to the community.

In 1995 Best Buy hosted a gold tournament to raise funds for their newly created Children’s Foundation. Partnering with other non-profits, they have put $300 million into community reserves. The Best Buy Scholarships program has given out $19.7 million. The Chidlren’s Foundation trains and helps teens explore their passion for technology. The foundation has created after school tech centers.

After doing extensive research about teens and their stressful years. Best Buy established their “At 15” program which targets 15 year olds. The program mentors them and makes community service a priority. Best Buy is poised to donate $31 million into communities this year.

Reporter: Phil Toohey

Understanding Your Garden

Spring has sprung and it is time to think about the garden. If you are like I am, I start looking at the drip hose the dog has chewed up over the winter and looking around at new plantings in the beds and what needs to be pruned back, this year maybe earlier than most.

To our rescue, Jonathan Plant and his associate Jeff Niezgoda spoke to our lunch group on understanding your garden. Jonathan was introduced by Donn Black. And, Rob Andreae reminded us that the Vintage High Garden aka Rotary Centennial Park, Rotary had as a project in 2005 was designed by Jonathan Plant and Associates, who donated his entire scope of work.

Plant gave a fascinating talk with great slides. He made a number of good points and actually left us a check list of 21 top things to do. Here are a few: Garden yourself. Your garden should not glow in the dark (not really sure what that means?) Mulch, mulch, mulch. Use water carefully. Again similar to last week and the city general plan, it all comes down to water. This time water can be the controller. If you want to spend your time picking endless weeds out of your garden, water everything. If you have better things to do with your time, don’t put water where you don’t need it. Drought tolerant planting is a real key to sustainability. Native plants do better than non-indigenous plants. “A garden should be a joy not a burden” says Plant.

Plant made a good case for drip irrigation. Judicial use of water can control the plants growth too far, too fast. Trees such as oaks need a good soak one or two times a year, no more. People tend to protect the tree base but put lawn over the roots and then overwater. Lawn should be accent not a default because you can’t think of anything else to do with the landscape. Reduce planting density and increase plant density.

Reporter: Phil Toohey
 
St. Helen City General Plan

Greg Desmond, interim Planning director for the city of St.Helena, came to speak to our Rotary Club on the status of the St. Helena City General Plan. He started by asking us if we had the full five hours that it would take to go through his presentation and after only a few minutes with his power point it became clear how difficult the information was and just a small part of how the process works with regards to the many issues that his department has to deal with beyond trying to find a consensus with the state of California and our local city council.

I think a General Plan is an oxymoron like saying “adult male” or "military intelligence”. As I see it there can be no “general” plan in that there are too many specifics that get the process gummed up.  Here’s one for you…try as they might there is no clear definition of what a “local” is.  So trying to find that which is local serving, is dead in the water.  As was pointed out by Mike Lane, a local can be someone who was born and raised here.  A local can be someone who just moved here and the third in the category of local could be someone who in the future might want to locate here. Each person may have different needs and wants going into the future.

Reporter: Carol Sobczak

THE STATE OF THE COUNTY by Supervisor Diane Dillon

Donn Black introduced our guest speaker today, Napa County Supervisor Diane Dillon, who gave us annual presentation about the State of the County.

Supervisor Dillon believes the biggest issue currently facing the county is the “sovereignty” issue brought about by the lawsuit of the Wappo Indians.  It’s a complicated and controversial topic with possibly large-scale ramifications for the Napa Valley. If the tribe prevails, it could buy any land and use it for any purpose, notwithstanding our current county regulations.

On the brighter side, last year the county accomplished many things, including a 12% increase in the hotel occupancy tax, the completion of a Gang and Youth Violence Prevention plan, a 50-year lease for a new library in American Canyon, the first caregiver permit ordinance in California, and redevelopment of the Health and Human Services campus. 

Looking ahead to 2012, the Board of Supervisor’s Wish List includes maintaining the fiscal health of the county, a decision regarding the location of a new jail, resolution of the Napa Pipe issue, and the future of Lake Berryessa, among others.

The full list of accomplishments and wish list can be found on our web site under “My ClubRunner,” “View Club Documents.” It is document number 30. Or, if you want one sent to you, e-mail this reporter at carol@carolsobczak.com.

Reporter: Alan Galbraith

Program:  Boy Scout Appreciation Day

The special heroes of today’s luncheon were the troops of St. Helena Boy Scout Troop No. 1, including their Scout Master of the past five years, Pat Griffith.  Troop No. 1 is in (about) its 95th year, going back nearly to the founding of the Boy Scouts 112 years ago.  Troop No. 1 is in a growth spurt, and Scout Master Griffith likely will extend his impressive leadership for a sixth year.  The Scout Master acknowledged the importance of senior volunteers to the organization and activities of the Troop.

The Scout Master announced a number of awards, including the “Rookie of the Year” (Scott Speck) and three who had accumulated vast numbers of award points.  The Scout of the Year, Thomas Scott, was also Scout of the Year in 20ll.  The first runner-up was Gus Conwell and the second runner-up was Tucker Crull.  The Scout Master noted that up to six members of the Troop could make Eagle Scout in the next few months, and that at least three should succeed.  This is well above the annual norm.

The Scout Master illustrated various activities and outings of Troop No. 1, including an annual winter camping trip in the Sierra which, last year, was curtailed by high snowfall.  The Scout Master dwelled on a planned trip to the Keet Seel Cliff Dwellings, which are in a remote and rugged canyon in the Navajo National Monument.  They date back to about 1250.  The Keet Seel Dwellings themselves are in the Hopi reservation, a small island inside the Navajo Reservation.  The Scout Master related that the Hopis at one point (centuries ago) bailed out the Navajos, the Navajos never forgot, and have been the protectors of the Hopis ever since.  The Scout Master also made mention of a 14-day scuba diving and sailing voyage aboard a schooner off the coast of Florida.  Closer to home, the Troop also takes on Mt. St. Helena.

Reporter: Polly Keegan

Program: The Regulatory and Financial Environment Standing In The Way of Renewable Energy.  Speaker: Gopal Shanker

Gopal Shanker works for the firm Recolte Energy here in the Napa Valley. One of the goals of Recolte Energy is to advocate on behalf of its clients to remove obstacles to achieving clean energy alternatives. Their projects have achieved many technical, financial, and regulatory “firsts”: 

• Far Niente Winery  - 1^st “floatovoltaic” system in the world
• Sutter Home Winery – 1^st large scale winery fuel cell installation
• Gasser Foundation – 1^st solar PPA for a small non-profit
• Saintsbury Winery – 1^st solar installation in PG&E’s right-of-way

Reporter: Carol Sobczak

WORLDREADER - Books for All

Donn Black introduced our guest speaker today, David Risher, CEO and Co-Founder of Worldreader, who spoke to us about “A Quiet Revolution: Transforming Reading in the Developing World.” david@worldreader.org    
 www.worldreader.org    Twitter:  @DavidRisherWR

Worldreader currently works in Ghana and Kenya, distributing e-readers (such as Kindles) to schools to help children improve their reading without the cost of shipping books that may never arrive at their destination, or may be outdated, etc. Currently, the book downloads are donated by publishers. What was surprising was that Ghana and Kenya have good cell phone networks, which is what the e-readers use.

The logical reason for the organization is that there is a real correlation between illiteracy and poverty. The emotional reason is to give children a future they may not otherwise have. David showed us two very short videos of some of the children reading and, believe me, they touched our hearts.

Reporter: Polly Keegan

St. Helen’s History with the Chinese Immigrants

Today’s Speaker: Miriam Hansen, St. Helena Historical Society

The speaker today was Miriam Hansen, who along with Susan Salvestrin have been our town’s principal gatherers and distributors of history, photographs and general memorabilia.

Miriam began by relating* a little of St. Helen’s founding in 1826 with a deed for 126 acres filed by Mr. Waters.  About the same time, in China, the Cantonese Province became the principal region trading with the West, giving the Cantonese exposure to western ideas and products. Beginning in 1850, the 13-year rebellion against the Manchu dynasty cost millions of lives and hard times. News of the gold rush in California caused Cantonese to migrate to California. These Chinese migrated here in three ways: as entrepreneurs, as indentured servants and as poor peasants whose passage was paid with a “credit-ticket” to be repaid from wages. Except for prostitutes, all the migrants were men.

Alan Galbraith, Reporter

Speaker:  John Blount, Sebastopol Rotary Club

“I think we are on an irreversible course, but that could change.”  (John’s theme was drawn from a remark of Dan Quayle (who, in keeping with his quotation, is irreversibly not a candidate for president in this election cycle – though that could change!).

John has held a number of distinguished positions with Rotary over the years, including as a director of Rotary International and Governor of our District.  He has been a teacher and trainer for Rotary for many years, with special emphasis in communications.  He has chaired the very important Communications Committee of the International Board.  It provides oversight and direction of a large component of International Rotary. consisting of eight divisions and nearly 270 employees, with responsibilities for the website, public relations, video productions, archives, among other activities.  It has given John broad insight into the operations of Rotary International.

Reporter:  Carol A. Sobczak

LAST MEETING OF CALENDAR YEAR 2011

This reporter was lucky enough to report on the last meeting of the previous Rotary year, and here I am again reporting on the last meeting of the calendar year. There must be a message in there somewhere, but I don’t know what it is.

Our last St Helena Rotary Club meeting of 2011 was an intimate and informal affair. Alston Hayne reminded us that the Christmas Season is not over until the Feast of the Epiphany, or the Feast of the Magi (The Three Kings). (This theme will repeat later, so stay tuned.) President Kelly Crane arranged for Chef Israel of Vercelli Ristorante to provide us with a lovely pasta lunch.

There were no Visiting Rotarians or Guests, but Dale Smith was the “Man of the Hour” as we helped him celebrate a 33-year Rotary anniversary and a 61-year wedding anniversary!

Reporter: Phil Toohey 

Program: Napa Valley Department of Corrections

Lenard Vare is the current director of the Napa County Department of Corrections. He came to give us the state of the union on Napa County Jail. He had a lot of very interesting things to say and information to pass along.

The best news that I heard is that the governor is not emptying out the state prisons into the local county jails.  That is simply not the case.  The other great news is that to get a place in the prison system, you have to really earn a place there.  Some criminals have seen a judge 20 times before they are sent to prison. 

Reporter: Alan Galbraith

Broad Paints Broadly

Today’s Speaker: Gary Broad, City Manager

The speaker today was Gary Broad, our newly installed city manager.  Of course, he painted with a broad brush.  The major community issues in St. Helena are complex, and he has been on the job only since November 14.  He refined the number to 21 days.

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Gary stressed that he was trying to get to know as many in our community as he could.  He wanted members of our City to know that his door at City Hall was open, and that he wanted to hear from our residents – stressing that they were a diverse bunch.  But he also stressed his hope that a reasonable consensus will emerge on our difficult issues.  He saw our residents as most capable of coming to reasonable decisions in the community interest.  Gary came across as an optimist for our future.   He put it in the context of much “positive energy” to be marshaled among our residents to serve the public interest.  He perceives himself as a resource for the City Council, City Staff, and City residents.  Best solutions are achieved when major constituencies come together.

When she was a journalist about 15 years ago, she interviewed Robert Mondavi, then about 80 years old. What keeps you so enthusiastic? She asked as she witnessed him jumping up on a table and infusing his audience with excitement about the wine industry. "If you are not going to put that kind of energy into what you are doing, what good is what you are doing? Putting that sense of excitement into this great organization around you, the Rotary is a unique opportunity to give, to take pride in your achievements and know that this is the time when Rotary is needed more than ever.

By Alan Galbraith

Speaker of the Day : Paul Asmuth

Our speaker was acclaimed, world-class swimmer Paul Asmuth. Father Mac introduced Paul. Paul completed 59 professional marathon-swimming races during his career, with significant wins along the way – including the first around Manhattan Island (proving that it is an island) in under seven hours. And Paul's recognitions are not just outstanding but truly exceptional. Paul was inducted into the International Marathon Hall of Fame in 1982 as an Honor Swimmer and was honored by the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame in 2010. Paul has guided the USA Swimming National Open Water Swimming Team since 2007.

We received a fascinating education in marathon open water swimming. The typical 10K (10,000 meters) race takes around two hours, but swimmers (and their coaches) break it down into segments in their thinking. The swimmers are equipped with chip-containing writs bands, so that the precise time their hands touch the finish line can be recorded – and even after two hours a race can come down to just one or two strokes. Referees are stationed along the open-water course with yellow cards and the dreaded red card, as in soccer. The swimmers swim with jaw (energy) packs, though they replenish just a fraction of the energy consumed. In the typical race the swimmers soon break up into packs – and there is a real strategy, especially as draft is significant, and can significantly advantage swimmers not in the lead.

In 2006, Paul was asked to become involved in oversight of marathon swimmers on the U.S. Olympic Team. He did not like what he saw: "we were arrogant and no good." That would change in subsequent years, as Paul became more directly involved. The new motto: "fiercest in water and friendliest on the beach." And, while experiencing a horrible tragedy (the death of key swimmer), the U.S. marathon swimming teams, on both the men's and women's sides, are among the strongest in international competition.

It was a fascinating presentation – one that could not help but generate great respect for the sport and its participants.

Paul today is the General Manager of The Napa Valley Reserve, and served on the board of Meadowood.