Ralph Buglass, a Montgomery County native and avid history buff, has taught at lifelong learning institutes associated with Johns Hopkins and American universities and Montgomery College. He speaks frequently to community groups, businesses, and other organizations as well as at national conferences. In 2020, with Peerless Rockville, he co-authored Images of America: Rockville, a pictorial history of the city’s 250 years. A retired communications professional, he is a graduate of Winston Churchill High School and has a B.A. in American history from Cornell and an M.A. in journalism from American University. An ambitious project in our nation’s early days, the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal was built alongside the unnavigable Potomac River as a commercial waterway to reach the west. But doomed almost from the start by the railroad, then put out of business altogether by the river flooding–not to mention almost being turned into a parkway–it is now a treasured recreational spot by cyclists, hikers, canoeists and others with technological wonders of its time and natural beauty to behold.
Ralph Buglass from Montgomery History Will Give a Presentation on the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal at the Rotary Club Meeting on April 18, 2024
Stephen Aldrich from Montgomery Planning gave a presentation on the Master Plan of Highways and Transitways Technical Update at the Rotary Club Meeting on April 11, 2024
Stephen Aldrich from Montgomery Planning will speak on the Master Plan of Highways and Transitways Technical Update at the Rotary Club Meeting on April 11, 2024
Gandy Thomas is the Ambassador, Representant Permanent Adjunct at the Mission Permanent of Haiti at the OAS. Having obtained a Master’s degree in International Relations of the Diplomatic Academy Andres Bello of Chile and a Bachelor’s in accounting Management at the Institute National of Management, Administration and International Studies, Mr. Thomas joined Haiti’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1991. He has served at the Embassy of Haiti in Chile as a Consular Officer from 1996-1998; at the Haitian Embassy in Cuba (where he had the responsibility of reporting on political developments and bilateral cooperation) from January 1998-December 2000; at the Embassy of Haiti in Colombia as Consul in charge of Political affairs from January 2001 to March 2002; at the Embassy of Haiti in Venezuela as Charge of business from 2002-2005; at the Embassy of Chile as Counselor, Responsible of Bilateral Cooperation from 2005-2008, at the Consulate of Orlando from 2008 to 2010 in the process to establish a consulate in Atlanta. He became Consul in Atlanta from 2011 to 2016. Away from work, Gandy is a fan of most sports; he particularly loves tennis, golf and soccer. Gandy is married to Leslie Gonzalez and, they have two children, Zhara and Legan.
Welcome Rotarian Gandy Thomas to the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club
CALLING ALL GOLFERS! If you are coming to the District Conference in April, come a little early on Friday, April 19, and enjoy the links! There is a discounted rate of only $92/golfer at the phenomenal River Marsh Golf Club. Learn more at http://rotary7620.org/districtconference
Golf at the Rotary District Conference in Cambridge
Get ready to set sail for a springtime adventure of service, connection and Chesapeake charm at the District’s Conference! Join us at the stunning Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Resort, where the sun-kissed waters meet endless possibilities for learning, fellowship, and action.
Engaging keynotes from inspiring leaders who will ignite your passion for Rotary’s mission
Dynamic breakout sessions covering a diverse range of topics
Unforgettable networking opportunities to connect with fellow Rotarians from across the district and forge powerful collaborations.
And of course, the change to explore the breathtaking beauty of the Chesapeake Bay! Kayak through pristine coves, take a stroll, or simply unwind and soak up the sunshineon the resort’s private beach.
RI President-elect Stephanie Urchick celebrates the magic of Rotary. She says members create that magic with every project completed, every dollar donated, and every new member of Rotary.
Rotary International Theme for 2024-25: "The Magic of Rotary"
"Marty" passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by her three surviving children, Mary Rankin Meade Howell (William), Martha Pendleton Meade Weber (Gary), Philip Pendleton Cooke Meade Jr. (Linda) and her devoted caregiver, Remenila Tirol. She was predeceased by her husband of 64 years, Philip Pendleton Cooke Meade; two of her five children, William Rankin Meade [1997] and Elizabeth Burwell Meade [2020]; and her brother John Woodruff Rankin [2009].
"Marty" attended Rollins College during World War II and majored in music. During the War, she also volunteered on a farm while many farm hands were away fighting. She enjoyed figure skating, swimming, and traveling around the world. She was a long-time member of Gamma Phi Beta, Washington Golf and Country Club and St. David's Episcopal Church in Washington, DC, where she was a member of Altar Guild and visited home-bound parishioners. Her seven grandchildren and nine great grandchildren will miss having their loving "Granny" in their lives.
Gregory Wrightstone, Executive Director of the CO2 Coalition, gave an illustrated presentation about his latest book, "A Very Convenient Warming" at the Rotary Club Meeting on December 14, 2023
Gregory Wrightstone is a geologist, executive director of the CO2 Coalition, expert reviewer for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and best-selling author of “Inconvenient Facts.” He has authored or co-authored more than 200 papers, publications and commentaries concerning climate change and energy. He is a popular guest for media outlets on television, radio and podcasts, having done nearly 300 interviews in 2022 alone. He is a strong proponent of the scientific process and often refers to a basic tenet of English law: Audiatur et altera pars or “Let both sides be fairly heard.”
Gregory Wrightstone, Executive Director of the CO2 Coalition, will speak about his latest book, "A Very Convenient Warming" at the Rotary Club Meeting on December 14, 2023
Maryland State Fire Marshal Brian S. Geraci was joined by Maryland State Police and Rockville Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. personnel, family members, and friends of Deputy Chief State Fire Marshal Sander B. Cohen on December 8 for the dedication of a highway sign along I-270 in Montgomery County in his honor.
Dedication of a highway sign along I-270 in Montgomery County in honor of Sander Cohen.
Dr. Royce Hanson, former Chair Montgomery County Planning Board and Chair Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission was the Guest Speaker on December 7, 2023
Dr. Royce Hanson is the co-author of Nation’s Metropolis The Economy, Politics, and Development of the Washington Region that describes how the national capital region functions as a metropolitan political economy. Its authors distinguish aspects of the Washington region that reflect its characteristics as a national capital from those common to most other metropolitan regions and to other capitals. To do so, they employ an interdisciplinary approach that draws from economics, political science, sociology, geography, and history. Royce Hanson and Harold Wolman focus on four major themes: the federal government as the region’s basic industry and its role in economic, physical, and political development; race as a core force in the development of the metropolis; the mismatch of the governance and economy of the national capital region; and the conundrum of achieving fully democratic governance for Washington, DC. Critical regional issues and policy problems are analyzed in the context of these themes, including poverty, inequality, education, housing, transportation, water supply, and governance. The authors conclude that the institutions and practices that accrued over the nineteenth and twentieth centuries are inadequate for dealing effectively with the issues confronting the city and the region in the twenty-first. The accumulation of problems arising from the unique role of the federal government and the persistent problem of racial inequality has been compounded by failure to resolve the conundrum of governance for the District of Columbia. They recommend rethinking the governance of the entire region. While many books are concerned with the city of Washington, DC, Nation’s Metropolis is the only book focused on the development and political economy of the metropolitan region as a whole. It will engage readers interested in the national capital, metropolitan development more generally, and the growing comparative literature on national capitals.
Dr. Royce Hanson, former Chair Montgomery County Planning Board and Chair Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission is the Guest Speaker on December 7, 2023
Winter Gala Invite, December 15, 2023, 5-8PM: Join Potomac Passport Rotary Club as we honor Wounded Warriors on the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) 20th anniversary year on December 15, 2023, 5-8PM. A large part of the proceeds will go to the WWP and efforts to support transitioning veterans. Register at https://lnkd.in/eEbEFenw
We are thrilled to announce that we have a friend of the Potomac Passport Rotary Club from the Defense Threat Reduction Agency confirmed as a chief guest to make this extra special, Mario Vizcarra. Detect Deter Defeat is their mission for which we as a nation are grateful.
And that's not all. We have a professional singer who is an Airforce Veteran, Joe Coleman singing a few of his favorite songs. ❤
Join Potomac Passport Rotary Club as they honor Wounded Warriors on the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) 20th anniversary year on December 15, 2023, 5-8PM.
The goal of this program is to assist all students in becoming good writers, active readers, creative thinkers, and resourceful learners by providing them with their own personal dictionary. The dictionaries are a gift to each student to use at school and at home for years to come. Educators see third grade as the dividing line between learning to read and reading to learn, so we give dictionaries each year to children in the third grade.
Join Our Dictionary Distributions at Participating Elementary Schools
Lisa Summers, President and Co-Founder of "Healing Politics" Described Her Organization Dedicated to Encouraging Those in the Nursing Profession to Run for Elected Office at the Rotary Club Meeting on October 5, 2023
Gerald Krell, President, Auteur Productions, and his son Adam presented plans and video for a documentary about the founder of Wolf Trap, Catherine Filene Shouse, at the Rotary Club meeting on September 7, 2023
Last Thursday (8/31) I arrived in Arbroath just in time for attending the club's meeting. So I took the opportunity to give them our Club's generous donation of 3,000 GBP. The attached picture is the handoff of the cash to Danny Gentles, their club's president. The members in the room were genuinely surprised at the amount and greatly appreciative of the good that will come from it.
Thank you again for your generosity!
Regards,
Nabil
Nabil has just astonished and delighted us with your incredibly generous donation of £3000. The money will be deposited into our charitable trust account tomorrow and we will carefully consider how to use the money to best effect. We already have a number of requests for funding but we prefer to balance our giving between reacting to requests and identifying the local organisations that are best placed to meet the many needs of our community in Arbroath. I will certainly be in touch with you to confirm how that is to be achieved.
Again, many many thanks. We will ensure that the money makes a difference.
Yours in Rotary
Danny Gentles
President The Rotary Club of Arbroath
Rotary Club of Arbroath, Scotland, thanked P-B Rotary for the donation
A Rotarian since 2006, Delores recently served as an Area Governor for six Area 2 Clubs. Delores is a member of the Board of Directors for her home club and has held several leadership roles including the following: Club President 2017-2018, Invocation Committee Chair, Membership Chair, and Director of the Student Scholarship Fund. In addition to her various leadership roles, Delores is an engaged club member and has served on several club committees: Youth Service, International Service, and Community and Vocational Service.
As a lawyer, Delores formerly served as the Executive Director of the Maryland Legal Services Program within the Maryland Department of Human Resources (DHR).
Delores earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish, with a concentration in Foreign Affairs from the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, VA. She has also earned a Master’s Degree in Student Development in Higher Education (Educational Leadership), and a Juris Doctor Degree from the American University in Washington, DC.
As an entrepreneur and consultant, Delores has coordinated organizational leadership retreats and is adept at working with Executive-level leadership of non-profit organizations and churches in Virginia and Maryland. As a small business owner in Maryland, Delores provides direct sales to men and women in the skin care and color cosmetics industry. As a Founding Member of the Greater Baltimore Leadership Association (GBLA) of the Greater Baltimore Urban League, Delores has spent over twenty years mentoring Young Professionals between the ages of 21-40 and has served as a role model for leadership for both the current and past administrations of GBLA. Delores is a Diamond Life Member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. For over twenty years, Delores has been a member of several Baptist Churches, where she served as a Steward (Trustee) and volunteer.
Delores was married to James in September, 2019, in Howard County, Maryland, where they currently reside. In her free time, Delores enjoys animals and long walks in natural surroundings. She also enjoys listening to motivational and spiritual messages, and reading books on leadership and entrepreneurship.
District Governor Delores Edwards Harding will make her official visit on August 17, 2023
"Alan, Thank you for giving so much of your time to organize and implement the Dictionary Project again this year. Your dedication to improve literacy where you live has had a profound impact on the children in your community. Your kindness and support show what community service looks like. Please let me know how we can implement your ideas to include more people. You are always welcome to visit our office when your travels bring you to South Carolina. Sincerely, Mary French, The Dictionary Project Director"
Dictionary Project Facts
To date, more than 35,617,000 children have received a dictionary thanks to the generosity of Dictionary Project sponsors. Over 3,770 Rotary Clubs, 65 Rotary Districts and 14 Rotaract Clubs have participated in The Dictionary Project. Rotarians have given over 18,360,000 dictionaries since 2002. Dictionary Projects provide dictionaries to students in all 50 states and over 40 countries.
Thank You to the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club for Participating in the Dictionary Project
The 7620 District Conference takes Montgomery County! Join District Governor Sean McAlister and your fellow Rotarians for a weekend of fun, learning, and collaboration. This year’s program will include the opportunity to complete Rotary Leadership Institute, a Heroes Recognition Brunch, breakout conversations, the Four Way Test Speech Contest, and our beloved Hospitality Suites! Attire for the Conference: Casual or Business Casual (Rotary gear encouraged!)
THIS WEEKEND: Rotary Discon 2023 at the Bethesda Hyatt
"There are a million stories in Montgomery County" and David Holzel, Editor, Montgomery Magazine will speak about some of them at the Rotary Club meeting on April 13, 2023
David Holzel, Editor, Montgomery Magazine will speak at the Rotary Club meeting on April 13, 2023
Ronald T. Piervincenzi, Ph.D., CEO of the United States Pharmacopeia gave a presentation on impacting the global supply of quality medicines at the Rotary Club Meeting on April 6, 2023
Ronald T. Piervincenzi, Ph.D., has served as Chief Executive Officer of the United States Pharmacopeia since February 2014. Dr. Piervincenzi provides strategic leadership to USP’s global staff of over 1,300 across sites in the US (Rockville, Frederick, D.C.), India, China, Ghana and Switzerland, and global public health field offices including Nigeria, Indonesia, Ethiopia, and Kenya.
His transformative vision has launched key USP initiatives in bringing quality across the healthcare spectrum, upholding USP’s reputation as a quality leader since its founding in 1820. Under his leadership, USP has modernized its operations and launched innovative new science, including in the areas of digital medicine, cutting-edge manufacturing technologies and advanced biologics. More recently, USP has begun building a robust “capability building” services suite of offerings including quality manufacturing consulting, donor-funded work, and education. Dr. Piervincenzi served as Chair of the Council of Experts, USP's scientific standards-setting body of 24 Expert Committees and over 750 standards-setting experts until June 2015, when he transferred this responsibility to USP’s new Chief Science Officer.
Dr. Piervincenzi brings more than 20 years of industry experience across pharmaceutical sciences, research and business strategy. Before joining USP, Dr. Piervincenzi served as Vice President of Development Sciences with Biogen Idec, Inc., where he designed and launched Biogen’s value-based medicine group focusing on applying tools and technologies of personalized medicine in the treatment and management of multiple sclerosis. Dr. Piervincenzi was a partner and leader in McKinsey & Company's global pharmaceutical and medical products practice for over 12 years. In this capacity, Dr. Piervincenzi launched McKinsey's global drug safety, medical and regulatory service line. With McKinsey, Dr. Piervincenzi also led the global research and information analytics team, managing staff in New Jersey, London, Brussels, and India.
Dr. Piervincenzi earned his M.S. and Ph.D. from Duke University in Biomedical Engineering, with research focused on protein engineering. He is the proud co-founder and chairman of the board for MENTOR Newark.
Ronald T. Piervincenzi, Ph.D., CEO of the United States Pharmacopeia will give a presentation on impacting the global supply of quality medicines at the Rotary Club Meeting on April 6, 2023
Sarah Witcher from the Department of Natural Resources, gave a presentation on the role of the department and addressed some common wildlife misconceptions at the Rotary Club Meeting on March 23, 2023
Area 8 - Central Montgomery County Bethesda-Chevy Chase, Downtown Silver Spring, International Friendship, Metro Bethesda, North Bethesda, and Potomac-Bethesda
Mark Rom stepped down from his Assistant Governor duties for personal reasons.
Former Club President Vijay Khetarpal (Potomac) will assume Mark’s clubs.
Email – khetarpalvijay@gmail.com
New District Assistant Governor for Central Montgomery County
Sarah Witcher is an Education Biologist for the Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife and Heritage Service. In this role, she serves as the State Coordinator for Project WILD, on the state committee for the Envirothon high school competition program, and as a leader and public speaker for the Wild Acres backyard habitat program. She also writes for outreach publications in multiple formats and supports the Rare, Threatened and Endangered Species research and management efforts of the Natural Heritage Program. Sarah holds a Bachelor’s in Biology and Psychology from Loyola University Maryland and a Master’s in Environmental Science and Policy from Johns Hopkins University. Her other work experiences include managing the biological stream monitoring for Baltimore County Department of Environmental Protection and Sustainability, serving as a Park Ranger and Manager for the Maryland Park Service, and education and outreach for the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore. Sarah is committed to educating about nature and deeply nerdy about numerous topics therein. She most enjoys time spent with her family of humans and animals, being a foodie, and exploring new places and quiet outdoor spaces.
Sarah Witcher from the Department of Natural Resources, will give a presentation on the role of the department and address some common wildlife misconceptions at the Rotary Club Meeting on March 23, 2023
Benjamin Friton, Director, REED Center, spoke on the topic “Biomimicry: a new way of thinking about our future” at the Rotary Club meeting on March 9, 2023
Ben was born and raised in Maryland and spent over 10-years as a speech professional working with government, business, and philanthropic leaders from around the world. Through this work, he had opportunities to travel extensively, opening his eyes to the many systemic failures of the agricultural practices that humans have come to rely on. Over time, he became deeply interested in alternative food system development that would support future generations, reduce food insecurity, and help prevent ecosystem collapse. In 2010 Ben began designing, and later patented, vertical growing structures to help those living in densely populated food-insecure regions of the world. It became quickly apparent that these vertical food production systems were extremely valuable to many groups, including the elderly, people with differing ability levels, urban dwellers and people living with limited contact to the natural world. To expand upon this work, he co-founded the non-profit Can YA Love. In 2014, Ben joined Forested, a 15-acre research-based food forest located in Bowie, Maryland, growing hundreds of species of edible, medicinal and otherwise useful plants in an intentionally integrated way. This food forest has increased its productivity year over year without the need for synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. Within a few short years, the practices employed at Forested began to restore the land that had been badly degraded by 300 years of conventional farming practices. For more than a decade, Ben has been consulting, teaching, and speaking to audiences of all ages on four continents about the past, present and future of humanity and agriculture. Beginning in 2018, he was given a unique opportunity to put into practice his vision of how to heal wounded lands while providing for the well-being of human and wildlife communities connected to that land. The REED Center for Ecosystem Reintegration is now the vehicle for carrying this vision forward. Ben currently resides with his family on the 150+ acre land called Morning View Food Forest that serves as the headquarters for The REED Center. The land is actively being transformed from what was once a conventional farming site to a beautifully diverse, increasingly densified and productive forested ecosystem. It is a hub for innovation, research, education, community-building and networking for all who wish to live in harmony with each other and with natural ecosystems, while building a future of abundance. The REED Center is a Maryland-based nonprofit that seeks to repair the holistic connection of humans and their environment through research, engaging communities in farm programming, developing self-perpetuating ecosystems, and designing natural landscapes on residential and commercial scales.
Benjamin Friton, Director, REED Center, will speak on the topic “Biomimicry: a new way of thinking about our future” at the Rotary Club meeting on March 9, 2023
Former Potomac-Bethesda Rotarian Smiljka Soretic and her husband Fedja died in an accident at their home in Venice, Florida. We send our sympathy to their family and friends.
Guest Speaker Jerdine Nolen, Novelist and Children's Book Author, Shared the "Joys of Writing Books for Children" at the Rotary Club Meeting on February 2, 2023
I received a B.A. in special education from Northeastern Illinois University and an M.Ed. in interdisciplinary arts education from Loyola University in Chicago. I have been an educator for a number of years as a classroom teacher, curriculum writer, staff developer, family involvement specialist, and administrator. I also enjoy lecturing on a variety of topics related to books and the writing process.
I love living in Maryland. It was actually not part of my plan to live here for so long, but I fell in love with this beautiful state that is also rich in the history of our country. There is always something new to discover.
Guest Speaker Jerdine Nolen, Novelist and Children's Book Author, Shares the "Joys of Writing Books for Children" at the Rotary Club Meeting on February 2, 2023
Michael Sam is the Founder and CEO of Bread of Life International. He has an unstoppable passion to see that every African child – especially the poor, the needy, the vulnerable, and the deprived has access to sufficient food and never have to go hungry. Born and raised in Ghana, Michael obtained scholarship to study at a university in United States. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Decision Information Sciences and MBA from University of Maryland, at College Park. Michael has used his experience as a Consultant and Agile & Scrum Coach to help organizations both Fortune 500 companies and the U.S. Federal Government Agencies to become more agile and achieve better results by successfully transforming the way they work.
In his visits and traveling around the country – communities, towns, and villages – he first-hand experiences the level of poverty and its impact on the poor infants, children, families, and vulnerable people that are struggling to buy food and feed themselves. Ghana is not an exception to this. There are millions of many infants, orphans, children, and vulnerable people across Africa that still go to bed on an empty stomach each night. Michael shares the belief that we must first provide safe, nutritious, and sufficient food to poor infants, children, orphans, families, and vulnerable people that are hungry and hurting, while addressing the long-term socio-economic conditions such as improving food security, creating employment, investing in agriculture sector, addressing climate changes and induced shocks, and civil insecurity that also critical for reducing hunger. Michael’s background, his roots, and strong faith have instilled deep empathy, compassionate, and care to reach out and to feed the poor and needy infants, children, families, and vulnerable people across Africa that are hungry and hurting.
Why Bread of Life? whether we know firsthand what it feels like to be chronically hungry or go to bed on an empty stomach each night and or in need of good, nutritional food to make you feel full and nourished? I think the possibility of that feeling for any person, young or old, strikes a deep chord within each of us. Bread is a basic food, a staple part of essential daily diet in many cultures and countries around the world. It has been one of the most accessible foods for people of all wealth and social status. Having bread means to avoid hunger and to spiritually nourish our body, soul, and spirit. Further, having enough to eat allow us to be more productive, be focus, be able to take care of ourselves, and contribute to our families and community. Bread of Life International was founded to give hope to poor and needy infants, children, families, widows, seniors, and vulnerable people across Africa that are experiencing hunger and in pain and despair.
Michael Sam, Founder and CEO of “Bread of Life" is our Guest Speaker at the Rotary Club meeting on December 15, 2022.
Ukpeme Akpan Okon is the Author of the award-winning The Values String: A book on Transitional Life, Compelling Fulfillment, and Profound Peace. A Lawyer, Arbitrator, Adjudicator, Mediator, Speaker, Trainer, Mentor, Trailblazer, and Ambassador for Peace, she believes that the complexities of the world, and challenges encountered by individuals can be surmounted. Her areas of core competence are in Peacebuilding, Adjudication, Mediation, Arbitration, Corporate Legal Practice, Intellectual Property, Women and Children's Rights Advocacy, Public Speaking /Motivational Speeches, Global Partnership for Development, and Capacity Building.
She founded Guild of Adjudicators in Nigeria (GAIN), and is the Pioneer Coordinator of Justice, Development and Peace Commission of the Catholic Cathedral of the Twelve Apostles Parish, Abuja. She has held other leadership positions. Ukpeme is the Convener of The Peace Agenda. The Peace Agenda is a platform for strategizing sustainable agenda, and action for peace. The Peace Agenda Summit, which she organizes, comprises 17 speakers: Presenting Strategies for Achieving Both Personal and World Peace. Ukpeme is a member of Women, Peace and Security Network. She is a former Assistant General Secretary of International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Abuja Branch, and the National Director - Administration of International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), USA. She has served on the Zero Draft sub-committee of Non-Governmental Organization / United Nations Convention on the Status of Women. Ukpeme is a past Secretary of the Abuja Chapter — Nigeria Branch of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, and was one of the 5 signatories to an application to establish the Abuja Chapter. She is a certified mental health coach, and a member of other organizations. Ukpeme was awarded the title "Ambassador for Peace" by the Universal Peace Federation. She is a recipient of a Powerhouse Global Award — Justice for the People Advocate, and other Awards. A resource person, with papers and presentations to her credit, she has served as Rapporteur on various assignments, and was a panelist at a High Level event of the United Nations General Assembly. Ukpeme has received other Awards, and is desirous of leaving a legacy of peace, time consciousness, organizational excellence, team work and meritorious leadership.
Ukpeme Akpan Okon, District Peace Fellows Chair, will be the Guest Speaker at the Rotary Club Meeting on December 8, 2022 (Note: Presentation begins at 6:45pm)
Dr. D. Bonni van Blarcom, a member of the Rockville Rotary Club gave a presentation on her South Sudan trip at the Rotary Club meeting on December 1, 2022
Dr. D. Bonni van Blarcom is a member of the Rockville Rotary Club and a Customs Reform Specialist/Trade Policy Analys. She just returned yesterday from her South Sudan trip and will talk about her work and the community. She plans to develop a Rotary grant to help fund internet/computers in an orphanage’s computer study room.
Dr. D. Bonni van Blarcom, a member of the Rockville Rotary Club, will discuss her South Sudan trip at the Rotary Club meeting on December 1, 2022
Nancy Mason and Bob Nelson presented their Photo Safari in Kenya at the Rotary Club Meeting on Bob's birthday, November 10, 2022. (Photo by Chinyere Amaefule)
Guest Speaker Robert Plumb from Montgomery History gave a presentation on Richard Montgomery whose name today identifies our county at the Rotary Club Meeting on October 6, 2022
Richard Montgomery—who was this man whose name today identifies our county and 15 others in the United States? Join Robert Plumb as he presents the life of General Richard Montgomery, the first general officer killed in the Revolutionary War and what, if any, connections he has with Montgomery County, Maryland. Plumb will discuss Montgomery’s arrival in the American Colonies, his role in the American Revolution and the ill-fated American Northern Expedition into Canada. The speaker will also cover Montgomery’s relationship to slavery as practiced in 18th century New York.
Robert Plumb is a resident of Montgomery County, Maryland and a long-time member of the Historical Society and its Speakers Bureau. After a career with GE and Fannie Mae, he wrote Your Brother in Arms: A Union Soldier’s Odyssey. Published by the University of Missouri Press in 2011 it was released again in 2013 in softcover format. His current work, The Better Angels, was published by Potomac Books, an imprint of The University of Nebraska Press, on March 1, 2020. Plumb’s writing has appeared in The Montgomery CountyStory, Hallowed Ground, the magazine of the American Battlefield Trust, and the Washington Post, and Washington Post Magazine. He holds a BA in history from the State University of New York at Buffalo and an MA from the Newhouse School at Syracuse University. From 2014 to 2017 and in 2019 and in 2022 he attended the Yale University Summer Writers’ Workshop in residence. He is a member of the Montgomery County Civil War Round Table, the Civil War Round Table of the District of Columbia, and the Society of Civil War Historians.
Guest Speaker Robert Plumb will address the question, "Richard Montgomery—who was this man whose name today identifies our county?" at the Rotary Club Meeting on October 6, 2022 (In-Person)
Dr. Michelle Thaller is an astrophysicist with over two decades of science communication experience. Her research involves the lifecycles of stars, and she has worked at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, NASA Headquarters and Goddard Space Flight Center, where she is currently the liaison between the Office of Communication and the Science Directorate. Outside her work at NASA, she has appeared in many television science programs, including How the Universe Works and Space’s Deepest Secrets. Michelle has done two TEDx talks about astronomy and has hosted the podcast Orbital Path on public radio. Recently she hosted the live coverage of the launch, deployment, and first images from the Webb Space Telescope, and she was the first astronomer to give a lecture in virtual reality on Meta.
Invite your family and friends!
Special Guest Speaker on September 22: Dr. Michelle Thaller, NASA, on the James Webb Space Telescope
Dr. Michelle Thaller is the Assistant Director for Science at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt. Michelle has a Bachelor’s degree in astrophysics from Harvard, and a Ph.D. from Georgia State University. After a post-doctoral research fellowship at Caltech, Michelle became particularly interested in public outreach and science communication and served as the public outreach lead for the Spitzer Space Telescope at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory before moving to Goddard Space Flight Center, where she is the Assistant Director of Science. Michelle was one of the regular hosts of Discovery Science Channel’s “How the Universe Works,” and also hosted the podcast “Orbital Path” on public radio. She has received several high-profile awards for online science journalism and science leadership. NASA’s science themes include Earth science and climate change, the sun and space weather, solar system exploration, cosmology and the deep universe.
Special Guest Speaker on September 22: Dr. Michelle Thaller, NASA, on the James Webb Space Telescope
Congratulations to the Potomac Rotary Club, Dr. Pallavi Gowda, President, for sponsoring the newly chartered Rotaract Club of MoCo (aka Montgomery County or MoCo Rotaract) formed on September 7, 2022. "Congratulations to Ashmina Shilpakar and Abhishek Shilpakar for creating history. Much gratitude to the Potomac Rotary Club, Area Governor Ken and District Governor Sean for the vision, sponsorship and support to make this a reality!"
New Rotaract Club Formed: MoCo - Montgomery County
I sincerely wanted to thank you again for the generous support from your club to help us advance Wondrous Learning Center activities at the Eastpines Community Building! Your financial contributions helped us undertake several of the activities referenced below, including purchasing hands-on games and other training materials and supplies for the refugees attending the IRC Summer Academy and our July 30th Neighborhood Day event. For example, we purchased several pop-up tents for the July 30th event to provide shade for attendees and exhibitors which were enormously appreciated. As you can see in the following, we're continuing to advance a variety of activities, including a chess game day this weekend and a professional development and career day in September. We'd welcome any further inquiries and engagement from your club. -- Anthony Bloome
On Saturday, July 30th, in collaboration with the Metamorphosis Community Project and Eastpines Community Association, mEducation Alliance hosted the Wondrous Learning Center Neighborhood Festival in Riverdale, MD. This event underscored the Alliance's commitment to supporting refugees, including those in the U.S. At this event, the organizers featured representatives and tables from 10 community-serving organizations sharing resources with the 100+ attendees who participated from the surrounding community. In addition to all the information booths, participants of all ages had a variety of activities to choose from: a bounce house, balloon animals, a raffle, book and educational game giveaways, and even juggling lessons! To welcome so many of our Afghan refugee friends who joined us, we served traditional Afghan food cooked by Afghan women living in the nearby apartment complex. The mEducation Alliance plans to host even more events and training activities at the Wondrous Learning Center, particularly those replicable in other formal and informal settings globally.
Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Supports mEducation Alliance to Reach Out to Afghan Refugee Families
Rotarian Dr. Stephanie Urchick, has been selected by the Nominating Committee to serve as the RI President in 2024-25. A Rotarian since 1991, Dr. Stephanie Urchick has served on the RI Board of Directors and also as the Chair of its Executive Committee in 2020-2021. She is a member of the Rotary Club of McMurray, Pennsylvania, USA and has served Rotary as a TRF Trustee, Chair of the Rotary Strategic Planning and TRF Centennial Celebration Committees, member of the Atlanta RI Convention Committee, International Training Leader, RRFC, President’s Representative, District Governor, and District Delegate to two COLs. Stephanie’s professional background is in the higher education, consulting, and entertainment industries. She received her doctorate degree in Leadership Studies from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and has been recognized and awarded by TRF and numerous community and international organizations.
Dr. Stephanie Urchick, has been selected by the Nominating Committee to serve as the RI President in 2024-25
Club Assembly Discussed Service Projects and Fundraising Ideas at the First Meeting of the New Rotary Year (July 7, 2022) at Our New Location (Lakewood Country Club)
It's a new Rotary Year and Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club has a new location! Join us on Thursday, July 7, at 6:30pm for our first meeting at Lakewood Country Club.
Robert Freedman is an American political scientist who holds appointments at Baltimore Hebrew University and at the Johns Hopkins University. Robert Freedman received his BA in Diplomatic History from the University of Pennsylvania and his MA and Ph.D. degrees in International Relations from Columbia University.
Dr. Robert Freedman Will Speak on "The Impact of the Russian Invasion of Ukraine on the Middle East" at the Rotary Club Meeting on June 16, 2022 [via Zoom]
When I met him at the district conference in April, Anthony (Tony) Bloome gave a very nice presentation on his nonprofit’s work supporting the learning of Afghan refugee kids in our area. He is also the incoming president of the Washington Global club in DC (new club – 3 years). For those of you not at the meeting yesterday, attached are a picture of Tony presenting and one of his posters. -- Nabil Bedewi
Tony Bloome Spoke on his project to improve learning for Afghan Refugee children on June 2, 2022
“Rise Against Hunger is on a mission to end world hunger. Rise Against Hunger is working toward this by nourishing lives, responding to emergencies, and empowering communities. Rise Against Hunger works with organizations and their volunteers to support our partners facing food insecurity around the globe. Our work often starts with a meal packaged by our volunteers and grows into sustainable solutions for creating and sustaining food in local communities.”
Nick DiMare, Community Engagement Manager, Rise Against Hunger, will be the Rotary Club Guest Speaker via Zoom on May 19, 2022
The State's Attorney's Office is a constitutionally created independent agency. Our mission is to serve the public interest through fair and honest administration of justice by exercising responsibilities to: prosecute criminal violations in Montgomery county; educate the public to criminal justice issues; provide training to lawyers for future service; address inequality and promote fairness in the criminal justice system; insure access to the criminal justice system; promote professional relations with judges and attorneys; and further the efficient use of criminal justice resources.
John McCarthy was born on March 3, 1952 in Jersey City, New Jersey. John is the oldest of six children. John's father, John 'Jack' McCarthy, now deceased, was a World War II Navy Veteran who served his country in both the European and Asian theaters. Following World War II, John's father attended Georgetown University on the GI Bill. John's mother, Jane, also deceased, was the oldest of nine children. John's commitment to public service was inspired by the example of his parents.
John attended both grammar and high school in the New Jersey suburbs outside of Philadelphia. John graduated from Camden Catholic High School in Cherry Hill, New Jersey in 1970, where he served as student government president his senior year. John attended Catholic University of America on a baseball scholarship between 1970 and 1974. Following his graduation from Catholic University, John taught at Good Counsel High School in Wheaton, Maryland and, while teaching, John attended law school in the evenings at the University of Baltimore. John graduated in 1979. John was admitted to the Maryland Bar in 1979 and began his legal career in private practice. John joined the State's Attorney's Office for Prince George's County in 1980 and eighteen months later became a Public Defender in Montgomery County. John joined the State's Attorney's Office for Montgomery County in 1982.
Before ascending to the position of State's Attorney in 2006, John served as Deputy State's Attorney in Montgomery County for ten years. Prior to that, John had headed every major trial division in the office.
John is the father of four children, and grandfather to five.
John McCarthy, Montgomery County State's Attorney, discussed Crime and Punishment in Montgomery County In-Person at Normandie Farm on June 9, 2022
Frederick W. Kagan is a senior fellow and the director of the Critical Threats Project (CTP) at the American Enterprise Institute (AEI). In 2009, he served in Kabul, Afghanistan, as part of General Stanley McChrystal's strategic assessment team, and he returned to Afghanistan in 2010, 2011, and 2012 to conduct research for Generals David Petraeus and John Allen. In July 2011, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen awarded him the Distinguished Public Service Award, the highest honor the Chairman can present to civilians who do not work for the Department of Defense, for his volunteer service in Afghanistan. He is coauthor of the report Defining Success in Afghanistan and author of the series of reports Choosing Victory (AEI), which recommended and monitored the US military surge in Iraq. His most recent book is Lessons for a Long War: How America Can Win on New Battlefields. Previously an associate professor of military history at West Point, Dr. Kagan was a contributing editor at the Weekly Standard and has written for Foreign Affairs, the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, the Los Angeles Times, and other periodicals.
Frederick Kagan from the American Enterprise Institute will give an "Update on the Russian Invasion of Ukraine" In-Person at Normandie Farm on May 5, 2022
Stephen Burant, PhD, State Department (retired) spoke on why the Ukrainians are resisting the Russian invasion so fiercely at the Rotary Club Meeting on April 21, 2022 in-person at Normandie Farm Restaurant
Stephen Burant has a Ph.D. in political science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and worked for 26 years in the Bureau of Intelligence and Research at the Department of State; he retired in late 2019. Before State, he worked for four years at the US Information Agency and for five years at the Library of Congress as a Soviet/East European analyst. In the 1990s and early 2000s, he published numerous articles on international relations in Central and Eastern Europe, including Ukraine. Some of these articles were translated into Ukrainian and Polish and published in Ukraine and Poland, respectively. Stephen has traveled to Kyiv twice and L'viv once.
Stephen Burant, PhD, State Department (retired) will speak on why the Ukrainians are resisting the Russian invasion so fiercely at the Rotary Club Meeting on April 21, 2022 in-person at Normandie Farm Restaurant
Hiram Perez, Senior Partner Development Manager, Amazon Web Services, gave an in-person presentation on “New Cloud Technologies” on April 14, 2022, at The Normandie Farm Restaurant
Dr. Pallavi Gowda is a medical doctor with a passion for community health and wellness. She is the Founder/ CEO of a concierge medical practice (Premier Health LLC) and more recently, RotaCare Maryland Inc. RotaCare Maryland Inc. is non-profit 501(c)(3) public benefit corporation, she and her board members can combine passion for medicine, humanitarian aid, collaborate with local community and hospital leaders and foster their Rotary connections. Dr. Gowda’s wealth of professional experience come from her Executive MHA degree and working in multiple healthcare systems to include the military, large healthcare system (MedStar Health), private practice and now with a nonprofit organization. She serves the Rotary Club of Potomac as its Afghan Refugee Assistance Coordinator and is Club’s President-Elect for 2022- 2023 as well as District Chair for International Rotary Fellowship of Healthcare Professionals. She has a long track record of volunteer service for which she recently earned her a 2022 President’s Lifetime Achievement Award from AmeriCorps and President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. RotaCare Maryland Inc is a subsidiary of RotaCare Free Clinics which was formed in 1989 when a Bay Area Rotarian, Dr. Mark Campbell and his Rotary Club of Campbell reviewed the Bay Area Community Health Needs Assessment and set out to help those who had limited access to much needed healthcare services. Dr. Gowda aims to bring Dr. Campbell’s philosophy of care to our nation’s capital region and thus founded RotaCare Maryland Inc with the immediate need to serve the over 9000 Afghan refugees that have relocated to the DC-Maryland-Virginia (DMV). However, lack of education on their benefits, the gaps in coverage, access to medical clinics and language are barriers for them to access medical services. Aside from being fueled by the individuals she helps, she is states there are exciting times ahead as she is implementing her new electronic healthcare platform which combines telehealth and incorporates digital health, called Oxygen Healthcare. She serves on the Medical Advisory Board for the last two years. The digital health platform is state of the art technology at the crossroads of usability by combining healthcare data interoperability, a user-friendly combination of electronic health record and telehealth all with the convenience of a phone application option for patients. In her free time, she values human connections with friends and family. She enjoys long distance running, playing tennis and teaching Zumba. PROFESSIONAL ROLES: Medical Doctor, Internal Medicine, Primary care Degree in Master of Health Administration Founder and CEO of Premier Health LLC, Concierge Practice Founder/ Chair of the Board for RotaCare Maryland Inc. Rotary Club of Potomac, President-Elect International Rotary Fellowship of Healthcare Professionals- District 7620 Chair Medical Advisory Board, called Oxygen Healthcare Asian American Health Initiative, Montgomery County DHHS- Steering Committee Maryland Reserve Corps, Active Member AWARDS • Recognition from AmeriCorps & the Office of the President of the United States - President’s Lifetime Achievement Award for their lifelong commitment to building a strong nation through volunteer service. Signed by President Joseph R Biden Jr. • Governor Larry Hogan Service Award 2021 • Certification of Recognition, Comptroller of Maryland 2020 • Washingtonian Top Doctor 2018- 2021 • Bethesda Top Doctor 2021 • “Potomac Lifestyle” Readers’ Choice Winner 2021 • National Defense Service Medal • Global War on Terrorism Service Medal • Army Superior Unit Award • Leading Physicians of the World by the International Association of Healthcare Professionals 2015 OTHER • Warrior Women Project- National Best Seller • 2nd Runner Up for Ms. India- DC • Certified Zumba instructor
ROTACARE MARYLAND INC. 12210 Plum Orchard Drive, Suite 214, Silver Spring, MD 20904 Pallavi Gowda Email: potomacrotaryprez22@gmail.com
Dr. Pallavi Gowda will make a presentation on RotaCare Maryland, a new initiative in our Rotary District, at the meeting on March 24, 2022
Ambassador and Former Deputy United States Trade Representative Michael N. Nemelka Spoke About Global Trade Policy at the Rotary Club Meeting on March 10, 2022
On February 3 Rotarian Nabil gave an impassioned update on his work with Believe in Belize. We are truly thankful that Nabil has continued to serve Rotary and the humanitarian needs of Belize. As a Club, we have committed to assist Nabil in his latest request to ship donated supplies and goods to Belize. Nabil has committed $2,000 of his own money to help finance the cost of shipping a 40 ft container to Belize. Our Club needs to raise another $2,000 for this worthy endeavor. If you would like to participate to help fund this worthy Believe in Belize shipping container expense, please make a check payable to the Potomac Bethesda Rotary Foundation. I will be accepting donations at the club meeting or you could hand deliver or mail me your contribution at a later date. If our Club receives in excess of $2,000 from our members (other than Nabil), the rest will be deposited into our Foundation account to be used at a later date.
Potomac-Bethesda Rotarians Pledge $4000 for Humanitarian Projects in Belize After Presentation by Nabil Bedewi on February 3, 2022
Normandy Farm Restaurant at 10710 Falls Rd. announced that the current owners will be retiring and the restaurant will be temporarily closing on June 30. New ownership will be taking over and are expected to reopen the restaurant in late summer. Normandie Farm was founded in 1931 by Marjory Hendricks in the midst of the Depression. It is one of a handful of restaurants that are still in existence from that era. Cary Prokos started at the restaurant in 1983 as a chef. He became the sole proprietor in 2007.
Ambassador Michael N. Nemelka returned to Kellogg Hansen in 2020 after serving as the Deputy United States Trade Representative for Africa, China, the Western Hemisphere, and Investment, Services, Labor, and Environment. In addition, he was responsible for global trade policy in the areas of intellectual property, market access, and industrial competitiveness. Ambassador Nemelka was confirmed by the Senate by voice vote without opposition. As Deputy United States Trade Representative, Ambassador Nemelka formulated and implemented U.S. trade policy for the regions and issues under his purview, led important trade negotiations, and developed and executed strategies to address trade barriers and unfair trade practices in countries around the world. Ambassador Nemelka played a key role in the successful implementation and launch of the new United States-Canada-Mexico Agreement, which replaced NAFTA, and in the monitoring and enforcement of the groundbreaking China Phase I deal. He also served as the lead negotiator for the proposed free trade agreement with the Republic of Kenya, which would be the first such agreement between the United States and a country in sub-Saharan Africa, and negotiated important trade agreements with Ecuador and Brazil. Prior to being confirmed as Deputy United States Trade Representative, he served as special advisor to Ambassador Robert E. Lighthizer, the United States Trade Representative.
Ambassador Nemelka helps clients navigate challenges and barriers in international trade and investment, and in dispute resolution before international trade tribunals and arbitrations. He also specializes in complex commercial litigation, and has experience across a broad range of civil and criminal matters. He has tried numerous cases to verdict in federal and state courts, as well as before arbitration panels. He has represented corporate and individual clients in cases involving antitrust liability, trust administration, breach of contract, intellectual property, and government securities and FCPA investigations.
Ambassador and Former Deputy United States Trade Representative Michael N. Nemelka Will Speak About Global Trade Policy at the Rotary Club Meeting on March 10, 2022 (in-person)
Offshore wind has the potential to become a major source of clean energy for Maryland and the United States. This discussion will review the current state of offshore wind in the US and the regulatory framework for offshore wind in the US as well as the policies related to and procurement of offshore wind in Maryland.
Amanda Best is a Senior Commission Advisor to the Maryland Public Service Commission. Her portfolio as an advisor includes energy efficiency, renewable energy, nuclear issues, EVs, and low-income assistance. Amanda is the contract manager for the Commission’s Round 2 offshore wind application process. She is the work group leader for the Electric Vehicle Work Group under Public Conference 44, which is Maryland’s grid modernization initiative. Amanda is the Chair of the NARUC Staff Subcommittee on Nuclear Issues – Waste Disposal. Amanda was previously a member of the PSC’s Technical Staff as both a Regulatory Economist and as an Assistant Director of the Energy Analysis and Planning Division. Prior to her work in the energy industry, Amanda worked on storm water management. She earned her bachelor’s degree in geography and environmental systems from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County and her master’s degree in environmental engineering from Johns Hopkins University.
Tom Day gave a presentation on the "general state of affairs in the Arctic Ocean" and other icy places. Tom is an experienced public speaker with a broad range of interests. The presentation "Ice At The North Pole" gives the basics of melting ice at the North Pole, covers the seasonal changes of the Arctic ice cap, and annual changes in recent years. The talk is illustrated with several Satellite images and graphs and shows effects on Greenland and Antarctica. Presented via Zoom by Tom Day, Stevenson Ranch, CA.
Past District Governor Rich Carson has accepted my invitation to speak at our club about his Rotary work with Central America refugees. He has been the Rotary International Representative to the Organization of American States, one of the founders of the Chesapeake PETS and is a member of the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rotary Club. He is the Founder and CEO of both a Cyber Security Consultancy Firm and a Cyber Security Product Development Company.
PDG Rich Carson will speak about his Rotary work with Central American refugees at the Rotary Club meeting on November 11, 2021
Believe in Belize (https://believeinbelize.org) provided major funding for the shipment of a 40’ container from the United States to Dangriga, Stann Creek through a collaboration with their partner Medical Equipment and Supplies Abroad (MESA) Foundation, Inc. (https://rotarydistrict6600.org/MESA).
The container provided hundreds of items worth thousands of dollars donated by different organizations and individuals in the US.
Dr. Geetha Jayaram is the District Governor for District 7620 for 21-22. A past Rotaractor and recipient of a 2005-06 Rotary Grant for University Teachers, she is a Professor of Psychiatry at the Johns Hopkins Schools of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing. In 1997, from the the Rotary Clubs of Columbia, & Howard West, Dr. Jayaram founded the Maanasi Clinic in Mugalur, Karnataka, India. She has volunteered for National Immunization Days for eradicating polio in India several times.
She started 2 Rotaract clubs & her current Rotary club of Howard West; increased membership in Rotary; taught as facilitator for the Rotary Leadership institute; lectured at many Rotary District Conferences and Zone institutes throughout North America, Asia and Europe.
She has procured over 20 grants for domestic and international Rotary work amounting to several million dollars.
Rotary Honors:
Charter member Rotaract Club of Bangalore, 1968
President of The Columbia Rotary Club & Best President for District with 7 awards
District Conference Emcee 2010
Service Above Self Award 2012
Honored by the WHO in 2013 for a low cost model for psychiatric care in low and middle income countries
Global Alumnus Service to Humanity Award for Zone 33 in 2012, 2013, and winner for Rotary International 2014 given to one person in the world
Honored by the World Bank in 2018 at the International Women’s Day celebration
Professional honors: Numerous national and international awards for professional work, teaching, humanitarian service, and leadership. Listed as Best Doctor by peers in Baltimore and Washington DC for 14 years. Past President of the Association of Women Psychiatrists, Past President of the American Association of Psychiatric Administrators, Scientific Program Chair x2 for the American Psychiatric Association of 37000 members (chaired meetings for 21000 and 27000 attendees) ; Elected Chair of the Global Caucus of the American Psychiatric Association (to name a few)
Rotary impact: Her major sustained humanitarian project for 22 years: MAANASI can be viewed at www.ProjectMaanasi.org
She initiated the clinic’s development, supplying it with medications, training health care staff and village caseworkers, teaching medical students, residents, nurses, junior faculty and raising funds for 22 years. The work is highly successful and sustained with local leadership and efforts.
The model has been replicated in all of Lithuania and now in Kenya (3 countries impacting millions of households: 212 villages in India, all of Lithuania, 300000 persons in Bungoma County, Kenya). She started the Rotary Action Group on Mental Health initiatives with others: www.ragonmentalhealth.org which now includes members from more than 30 countries.
She has hosted GSE students from 12 countries. She is a member of CADRE of Rotary.
She is a Major Donor level 3 and Paul Harris Fellow x8.
She has the following select honors as well:
Invited keynote speaker to the Rotary International Convention meeting in Brazil in 2015
Invited keynote speaker at 5 district conferences
Invited keynote speaker at the Zone conference in Lithuania in 2015
Invited keynote speaker at the Zone 33 & 34 Institute in 2016
Invited keynote speaker at the Zone 32 meeting in Winnipeg, Canada 2016
Invited to give the State of the State address to the Rotarians and the Health Department in Denver 2016
Winner of the Kun Po Soo Award for her contributions to Asian American Psychiatry from the American Psychiatric Association 2017
Elected to the American College of Psychiatrists 2017
Winner of the American Psychiatric Association’s Administrative Psychiatry Award 2018
Elected to the Distinguished Teachers Society of the Johns Hopkins University (only 5 of all physicians in the University selected) 2019
Honored with the Maryland Psychiatric Society Lifetime Achievement Award 2021
Rotary District Governor Dr. Geetha Jayaram is speaking at Normandie Farm Restaurant on Thursday, November 4, 2021
"At 14, Tommy had finished his primary school in Kibera and as is usual with many students who live in the slums, this was the furthest one could go. As a child, Tommy grew up with a lot of questions often wondering whether he could ever break free from the poverty he was raised in. His family could not afford life basics such as food, clothes and a proper shelter and that is why after his lower education, Tommy had almost submitted to the fact that he may never acquire any further education. Time went by and fate had it otherwise for Tommy. At the verge of giving up on his dreams Tommy met a complete stranger who would completely change not just his life, but also the approach and perspective from which he looked at things henceforth. The stranger, an old Irish man Tommy had never thought of meeting agreed to pay for all his high school education, turning around Tommy’s life and giving him another chance to dream. To Tommy this wasn’t just an opportunity. It was HOPE. An opportunity to redeem himself from abject poverty and give himself a better life different from the one his parents could afford. Tommy finished his high school and went on to graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in Sustainable Human Development in university and became an active member of the community and later, with his wife Judy formed The Mirror of Hope."
"Mirror of Hope was found in response to the plight of needy children and women of Kibera. The organization was formed to bring back hope to the residence of this huge slum of Africa using the transformative power of education and the ripple effect of women empowerment. In 2010 Thomas and his wife Judy formed a small group initially aimed at providing care and support to orphans and vulnerable children of Kibera and to enable capacity building and empowerment to women in order to create change and transformation in one of the world’s biggest slums. These women and children were initially receiving support from an organization that later dissolved abruptly, leaving them in a vulnerable state with their lives and dreams at stake. Among the many challenges that come with living in Kibera, poverty is the biggest of them all. And among the many solutions one could think of, fighting poverty through education and empowering women, who are sole providers in most families comes first…or at least we believe so. It is through this way that Mirror of Hope exists today first, to provide education sponsorship to children coming from needy and extremely poor families in Kibera. We target education as the major transformational tool to bring change. Through sponsoring these children, it is our belief, having evident proof, that these children will acquire knowledge to help themselves and their families out of the chains of poverty that for generations has enslaved them. Secondly, we aim to empower all economically vulnerable women through entrepreneurship via the Women Empowerment program and lastly, Our computer training facility and Music Centre are subsidiary programs aimed at using the collaborative power of music and technology to develop careers and create jobs for the youth coming from underprivileged areas."
Michele Higgs, Community Outreach Coordinator for the Housing Initiative Partnership, Claudia Jutila and Lesia Bullock were our Guest Speakers on October 14, 2021
Michele Higgs is Housing Initiative Partnership’s Community Outreach Coordinator. In this role, she engages residents, businesses, and elected officials to raise awareness of housing opportunities, tenant resources, and HIP’s counseling programs across Montgomery County. In this capacity, Michele is also the primary contact and spokesperson for HIP’s Montgomery County Home Sharing Program. If you have questions regarding Home Sharing, please call 301-85-SHARE. Michele has more than 25 years of experience providing technical assistance training and coaching to nonprofit organizations serving seniors, disabled residents, and low-income populations. She is located in HIP’s Montgomery County office in Germantown, and can be reached at mhiggs@HIPhomes.org.
In June 2021 Montgomery County unveiled the Climate Action Plan. The Climate Action Plan is the County’s strategic plan to cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions 80% by 2027 and 100% by 2035. The Climate Action Plan details the effects of a changing climate and includes strategies to reduce GHG emissions and climate-related risks to the County’s residents, businesses, and the built and natural environment. In this presentation, members of the County’s climate team will provide an overview of the Climate Action Plan and the climate actions currently underway.
Adriana Hochberg: Adriana Hochberg serves as the Climate Change Officer for Montgomery County, Maryland. She leads Montgomery County’s efforts to combat climate change while building a healthy, equitable, and resilient county. Ms. Hochberg coordinated the development of the Climate Action Plan, a strategic roadmap for the County to cut community-wide greenhouse gas emissions by 80 percent by 2027 and reach zero emissions by 2035. Ms. Hochberg previously served as an Assistant Chief Administrative Officer for Montgomery County.
Mara Parker: Mara Parker works as a grants coordinator in Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, tracking and reporting on FEMA grant funding utilized to prepare for and mitigate the effects of disasters, a growing problem as climate change continues to reshape our region. She is a member of the County’s Climate Leadership Team, where she worked with the Climate Adaptation and Carbon Sequestration workgroups. She has served on the County’s COVID-19 Crisis Communications Team and worked for over ten years as a senior legislative aide at the Montgomery County Council, providing analysis of the County’s public safety departments.
Stan Edwards: Stan Edwards is the Chief of the Energy, Climate, & Compliance Division in the Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection. He manages a range of programs related to energy and climate issues, as well as enforcement of the County’s environmental laws. He helped write the County’s 2009 Climate Protection Plan and serves on the County’s core climate planning team working to implement the County’s 2021 Climate Action Plan. Mr. Edwards has a bachelor’s degree in Physics from Dickinson College and a master’s degree in Energy Systems from the School of Engineering and Applied Science at the George Washington University.
Sandra Brecher is Chief of the Commuter Services Section in the Montgomery County, Maryland, Department of Transportation. In that role she leads efforts to plan and promote use of alternatives to single occupant vehicle travel, to reduce traffic congestion, improve the environment, promote sustainable urban development and help address climate change. The office works with County employers, developers, property managers and the broader community to incorporate Transportation Demand Management strategies into policies and projects; operates five Transportation Management Districts located in urban activity centers of the County; and operates two commuter stores, one bricks & mortar, one mobile. Ms. Brecher received her undergraduate degree from Ohio University and graduate education in urban planning at Cornell University. Prior to joining Montgomery County, Ms. Brecher worked as an urban planning consultant, completing a variety of local and national assignments in transportation and land use policy, development planning, and community facilitation for public and private sector clients.
Claire Iseli serves as a special assistant to County Executive Marc Elrich. She has held this position since December 2019. Prior to that, Ms. Iseli worked in Marc's at-large County Council office for 10 years, and previously worked for the late district councilmembers Marilyn and Don Praisner. During her 30 years with county government, Claire has concentrated on land use policy planning, analysis, and zoning, environmental issues, and constituent services. More recently, she has also been involved in affordable housing issues. Claire is a 45-year resident of Montgomery County and lives in the Cloverly area of the East County.
Claire Iseli, Special Assistant to County Executive Marc Elrich, discussed Land Use Planning and Thrive Montgomery 2050 at the Rotary Club Meeting on September 23, 2021
SOLAR GARDENS AND REDUCING CARBON EMISSION On September 2, 2021, Jim McCrea will be making a presentation on a program that District 7620’s Environment Committee is developing called the “Rotary Community Solar Program”. Community Solar is a way that most Maryland utility customers can purchase solar power through their existing utility with no equipment or setup costs and with no alteration of their home. The solar power is generated in “solar gardens” (solar farms) in their utility’s area of operation. The solar power is supplied directly from the solar garden to the utility. The customers are given credits on their utility bill for solar power they use. Then the solar power company bills the consumer for the solar power at a rate 10% less than the utility rate. In short, any utility customer can get solar power with no upfront costs at a rate 10% lower than their utility rate. At no time is the customer disconnected from utility power. Jim McCrea has been a Parole (Annapolis) Rotarian for 20 years. He is the Environmental Director of the Club and serves on the Service and Membership Committees. Jim is a member of the District Environmental Committee, ESRAG (Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group), The Eastern North America ESRAG Chapter and the RETF (Renewable Energy Task Force) of ESRAG.
Sherry Robinson will also participate in the presentation after Jim's presentation. Sherry is Director of Sales for Neighborhood Sun, a for-profit enterprise.
Guests Jim McCrea and Sherry Robinson will give a presentation on "Community Solar" via Zoom at the Rotary Club meeting on September 2, 2021
Citizens Climate Lobby is a non-partisan, non-profit organization with over 200,000 members. Their mission is to find ways to overcome climate change. Jeff Turner (from Columbia Town Center Rotary and Citizens Climate Lobby) and Dr. Cliff Strawitch (from Citizens Climate Lobby) will do a Zoom presentation about Climate Change, how Climate Change affects people in our region, and how CCL’s efforts to build bridges in a non-partisan way to solve climate-related issues align with Rotary’s mission. The main emphasis of the presentation is to build a case for putting a price on carbon. Economists agree that the best way to combat climate change is to put a fee on carbon, and to allow market forces to reduce CO2 emissions. Putting a fee on carbon will make alternative energy sources such as solar, wind and nuclear (as well as hybrid and electric vehicles) more attractive economically.
Jeff Turner and Dr. Cliff Strawitch (from Citizens Climate Lobby) will give a presentation on Climate Change and Carbon Pricing at the Rotary Club meeting on August 5, 2021
Dr. Benjamin Newton gave a presentation on "Regenerative Medicine and Interventional Orthopedics using Stem Cells" at the Rotary Club Meeting on July 15, 2021
Dr. Benjamin Newton joined StemCell Arts, an affiliate of National Spine & Pain Centers, in 2016. As a board-certified, fellowship-trained sports medicine physician, his professional passion includes regenerative medicine and interventional orthopedics. He has extensive experience evaluating and treating non-operative orthopedic, sport injury, and musculoskeletal complaints of the spine and extremities. Dr. Newton utilizes regenerative therapies to help patients of all ages get back to an active lifestyle. Double board-certified in sports and family medicine, Dr. Newton also holds additional training certificates in musculoskeletal Ultrasound and Fluoroscopy. This training is essential to the precision required for Stem Cell, Platelet, and Prolotherapy procedures. During residency in Vermont, Dr. Newton treated high school athletes and volunteered at injury clinics at nearby ski resorts. As a sports medicine fellow in Cincinnati, he had valuable experiences with Beacon Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine. Here, he was able to evaluate and treat professional and elite level athletes. During this same fellowship, Dr. Newton spent time at spring training in Arizona with the Cincinnati Reds, as well as home games in Cincinnati. He completed a second fellowship in interventional orthopedics and regenerative medicine with Regenexx at the Centeno-Schultz Clinic in Colorado and remained on staff, following its conclusion. Dr. Newton enjoys being able to assist both physicians and patients with regenerative and interventional orthopedic medicine. He is often given the opportunity to share his expertise and knowledge by teaching musculoskeletal ultrasound courses at annual conferences, such as the American Association of Orthopaedic Medicine. He also participates in a number of volunteer experiences both nationally, as a physician at Ironman triathlons, and internationally, in rural Mexico, treating patients with a myriad of orthopedic complaints. Outside of the office, Dr. Newton loves being with his wife and four young children. When they’re asleep, he trains for and competes in endurance events, such as Ironman triathlons. Dr. Newton is fluent in Spanish.
Dr. Benjamin Newton will give a presentation on "Regenerative Medicine and Interventional Orthopedics using Stem Cells" at the Rotary Club Meeting on July 15, 2021
I was born 2nd oldest of 9 children in Toronto, Canada to an American Mom and German Dad. We moved to Suitland, MD when I was in Elementary School. After working and living in England and Switzerland in the mid 80's, I moved to Baltimore where my husband, Mark and I raised 2 children. I received an MBA from Loyola University in 2013 after my children graduated from High School. As an Entrepreneur, I have run several successful companies including BTX a Business-to-Business Barter Exchange and a Food Truck called Farm to Charm. Most of my working career has been in Sales, Marketing, and Fundraising.
I joined the Baltimore Rotary Club in 2001 and served as the 2nd female President in over 100 years. I served as Area Governor from 2011 – 2017. I’m a charter member and past President of the new Rotary Club of Baltimore Sunset. My greatest Rotary achievement: I received a global grant to build a gravity-powered water treatment plant in Atima, Honduras. After raising $30K in local funds, I was awarded matching grants from our District 7620 and Rotary International. The final project was completed in one year at $90K working with local NGO’s, Cornell University Engineers, Rotary Club of Santa Barbara, Honduras and created 2 full time jobs for local resident.
I am a Paul Harris Fellow, a member of ESRAG: Environmental Sustainability Rotarian Action Group, and a member of the International Rotary Yacht Squadron of Chesapeake Bay. I've been raising a yellow lab for Guiding Eyes for the Blind over the last 15 months. I've planted 10 pollinator gardens in Baltimore City Schools and I'm the New Program Director for Monarch Sister Schools Program USA. My goal is to plant 100 pollinator gardens in Spring 2021 across the U.S.
Rotarian Mary Anne Rishebarger is our guest speaker on Monarch Butterfly Gardens at the Rotary Club Meeting on July 8, 2021
"The Warrior Women Project: A Sisterhood of Immigrant Women" Dr. Pallavi Gowda is an osteopathic internal medicine physician who holds strongly to the oath that she took in medical school to preserve the health and wellness of her patients. Her greatest priority is to maintain an optimal state of both physical and emotional well-being for her patients. She received her medical degree from Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine and Masters of Health Administration degree from George Washington University. Her interests are in cardiovascular disease, osteopathic manipulation for musculoskeletal disorders/ sports medicine, obesity management, cancer screening and geriatrics. Dr. Gowda’s residency training was at Walter Reed Army Medical Center (WRAMC) and Bluefield Regional Medical Center. She has served as Assistant Medical Director to the Quality Improvement and Patient Safety Committee at WRAMC. She was stationed in Fort Meade, MD at Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center where she served as a Chief Medical Officer in Force Health Protection. While in the military, she received numerous awards such as the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Army Superior Unit Award. Most recently, she worked for MedStar Health as a primary care physician where she was awarded recognition by the National Committee for Quality Assurance Physician Practice Connections Patient-Centered Medical Home Program (PPC-PCMH). Dr Gowda was awarded a Leading Physicians of the World by The International Association of HealthCare Professionals in 2015. She has published articles in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology- Cardiovascular Imaging and Transplantation. She is a member of the American College of Osteopathic Internists and Association of Healthcare Executives.
Dr. Pallavi Gowda is our Special Guest Speaker for the first meeting of the Rotary new year and the changeover of officers
Kashonna Holland is an engaging keynote speaker, an inspiring coach, a motivational author, and an insightful corporate trainer. Kashonna is the President & CEO of Simply Kashonna, a business built to promote BOLD, FEARLESS and COURAGEOUS living. She goes beyond surface issues to address the pink elephants that inhibit personal, professional and spiritual potential. Kashonna has helped many people walk through the ambiguity of their lives and on to defining their life’s purpose by discovering their authentic self. Both, in the corporate arena and in the non-profit world, strategic growth and development of people have always been the focal point of her service. Corporately, she has held positions in both Human Resources, as well as the Staffing industry. Additionally, Kashonna spent years in an executive pastoral role where crisis intervention and spiritual guidance were her primary responsibilities. Understanding that leadership training and development is essential to any corporation or organization’s growth, Kashonna launched SK Leading Forward, which is dedicated to enhancing employee engagement, performance, productivity and morale. Through corporate relationships and interactive group/focus sessions, she has facilitated workshops in Customer Service, How to Handle Difficult People, Navigating Conflict, Emotional Intelligence, Developing Yourself and Others, Behavioral Based Interviewing, Diversity and Inclusion, to name a few. In addition, she has facilitated and provided training for various personality assessments. Kashonna’s area of expertise is transformational leadership development and personal empowerment. Kashonna is also the author of 7 Days to Simply Shift: A Daily Guide to Transforming Your Mindset Personally, Professionally and Spiritually. Kashonna is a member of the Forbes Coaches Council and Association for Talent Development. She also serves her community on the Board to Promote Self-Sufficiency and the Commission for Women. No matter the venue, Kashonna will impact you with her professional agility, contagious energy, vibrant smile, and engaging delivery.
Kashonna Holland, Chair, Rotary District Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee, will be our guest speaker on June 17, 2021
JCA® — the Jewish Council for the Aging of Greater Washington — strives to make D.C., suburban Maryland and Northern Virginia great places to grow up and grow old. Their experts on aging provide access, answers and opportunities to older adults and family caregivers of all faiths and from all walks of life. Since 1973, they have been helping older men and women maintain independence, dignity, vitality and self-respect.
Sanah Jivani, Community Engagement Manager, Generation Hope spoke on her background with Rotary and her role with "Generation Hope" mentoring teen parents and their children at the Rotary Club meeting on April 8, 2021
My name is Sanah Jivani. I am particularly excited to be reaching out to my new local Rotary clubs (will be moving to the area from Texas!) because Rotary has been instrumental in my life and leadership development. When I was 12 years old, I was diagnosed with a condition called Alopecia and lost my hair overnight. As you can imagine, this is a traumatic experience for a young person. I struggled with my mental health and self-confidence. I began to first develop my voice when I found Interact and the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards. They provided me with grassroots funding and mentors and believed in me when I did not have supportive adults or mentors to lean on. I have a deep connection to Rotary, and with the help and mentorship of my local club, I started my own non-profit organization (www.loveyournaturalself.org) that now impacts over 50,000 students a year in 28 countries (my story was recently featured on Good Morning America!). I have loved speaking to over 40 Rotary clubs around the nation about the impact that Rotarians can have on young people. Rotary taught me that in your local community, there are always ways to give back. As I continued to think about the impact Rotary has had on my life and journey, I decided to accept a position with Generation Hope. Generation Hope surrounds motivated teen parents and their children with the mentors, emotional support, and financial resources that they need to thrive in college and kindergarten, thereby driving a two-generation solution to poverty. I relate to many of our scholars, because I grew up in a household filled with domestic violence and was often told that I would not succeed. Good mentors and leadership from my local Rotary club shifted that for me, and as the new Community Engagement Manager at Generation Hope, inquire re: speaking or partnering with your club.
Sanah Jivani, Community Engagement Manager, Generation Hope will speak on her background with Rotary, her own non-profit organization "Love Your Natural Self" and her role with "Generation Hope" mentoring teen parents and their children
Brad Stewart, Senior Vice President of Business Development at Montgomery Economic Development Corporation, was our Guest Speaker on March 4, 2021, In-Person at the Normandie Farm Restaurant
Brad Stewart is a serial biotech entrepreneur now working to grow Montgomery County’s economy, which approaches $100 billion per year and is the leading economic driver of Maryland.
Brad leads an expert team of economic development specialists focused on growing a diverse cross-section of businesses here—including the life sciences, technology, cybersecurity, defense and hospitality. We help accelerate business growth for companies, foster entrepreneurship, and leverage our incredible resources, including 18 federal agencies (e.g., NIH, NCI, NIST, NOAA) and 38 federal labs which are headquartered in Montgomery County.
Brad also chairs Maryland Life Sciences (MD Bio) and is Vice-Chair of the Maryland Tech Council. A fearless leader who’s invested his career in building and turning around life sciences companies to maximize shareholder value, Brad thrives on complex strategic opportunities. He has successfully executed against challenges repeatedly while commercializing companies on a global scale. An experienced senior executive, he has a record of success in many specialty-areas of the life sciences industry including: immunology, oncology, transplant, orphan drugs, diagnostics, development and management of joint ventures, and extensive management consulting and corporate strategy assignments.
Previously Brad served as Chief Executive Officer of Immunology Partners and Chief Executive Officer of Cylex, Inc., where he executed a turnaround for an early stage, venture capital backed company (Roche, Siemens, Canaan Partners).
Brad Stewart, Senior Vice President of Business Development at Montgomery Economic Development Corporation, is our Guest Speaker on March 4, 2021, In-Person at the Normandie Farm Restaurant
Rotary, Rotaract and Interact (from the Gaithersburg Rotary Club Newsletter)
We talk proudly of the 35,000 Rotary clubs in the world but rarely mention the nearly 11,000 Rotaract Clubs and the more than 20,000 Interact clubs. In theory, there is a staircase from Interact (high school) to Rotaract (college to about age 30) to Rotary. The vital second step is missing in Montgomery County.
But, that is about to change. Our district's Rotaract Advisor, Monique Toussant, is helping the Gaithersburg, Rockville and Silver Spring clubs work together to form a Rotaract. The idea is to establish it as a student organization serving the three campuses of Montgomery College. A faculty advisor is in place, and each of the three Rotary clubs will name a liaison Silver Spring and Rockville have named theirs). A virtual recruitment open house will take place on February 22nd.
Rotaract clubs bring young people together to exchange ideas with leaders in the community, develop leadership and professional skills, and have fun through service. In communities worldwide, Rotary and Rotaract members work side by side to take action. The Rotary Club of Gaithersburg looks forward to working with the soon-to-be-established Rotaract club.
Rotaract Club forming as a student organization serving the three campuses of Montgomery College
[L-R] Dr. Noel Howard, Gladys Howard, Nancy Mason, Jake Matysek and Bob Nelson delivered pashmina scarves to the Interfaith Works Homeless Women's Center in Rockville on February 11, 2021. The club has been presenting Valentine's Day gifts for many years.
Ralph Buglass, Montgomery History, will present "Separate and Unequal: History of School Segregation in Montgomery County" via Zoom at the Rotary Club Meeting on February 18, 2021
Courtney Hall joined Interfaith Works as Chief Executive Officer in November 2020 following 17 years of service in the public and nonprofit sectors. Most recently he has been the Vice President at Housing Up in Washington DC, where he led the provision of affordable housing and supportive services to more than 700 homeless individuals and at-risk households. Prior to his Housing Up experience, Courtney served as a Child Welfare leader in DC and Alabama. He received his Bachelor of Social Work from Oakwood University in Alabama, a Master of Social Work from The University of Alabama, and holds a Nonprofit Management Executive Certificate from Georgetown University.
Courtney Hall, CEO, Interfaith Works was our Guest Speaker at the Rotary Club Meeting on January 21, 2021
Courtney Hall joined Interfaith Works as Chief Executive Officer in November 2020 following 17 years of service in the public and nonprofit sectors. Most recently he has been the Vice President at Housing Up in Washington DC, where he led the provision of affordable housing and supportive services to more than 700 homeless individuals and at-risk households. Prior to his Housing Up experience, Courtney served as a Child Welfare leader in DC and Alabama. He received his Bachelor of Social Work from Oakwood University in Alabama, a Master of Social Work from The University of Alabama, and holds a Nonprofit Management Executive Certificate from Georgetown University.
Courtney Hall, CEO, Interfaith Works will be our Guest Speaker at the Rotary Club Meeting on January 21, 2021
Fellow PB Rotarians: Once again our Club has been very generous and has donated $200 to Rotary International for each active member. You should be receiving a recognition of your gifts, $100 to the RI General Fund and $100 to the RI Polio Plus Fund. This year our Club has donated to some very worthy causes: Manna Food Center for $3,400, Nourish Now $500, Believe in Belize (Thank you Nabil!) $1,840, Rotary International General Fund $1,500, Rotary International Polio Plus $1,500, and four beautiful teak benches to various police and fire stations $5,205. Thank you all! Best, Phil
Photo: Our Latest Bench Donation to the MSP Rockville Barracks on Montrose Rd
2020 Donations from the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club
Member of the Senate since September 17, 2013. Vice-Chair, Finance Committee, 2019- (member, 2013-; property & casualty subcommittee, 2015-17; chair, transportation subcommittee, 2015-16; chair, health subcommittee, 2017-18; chair, energy & public utilities subcommittee, 2019-; member, health & long-term care subcommittee, 2019-). Member, Workers Compensation Benefit and Insurance Oversight Committee, 2015-; Executive Nominations Committee, 2019-; Legislative Policy Committee, 2019-; Joint Committee on Legislative Ethics, 2019-; Marijuana Legalization Work Group, 2019-. Senate Chair, Joint Electric Universal Service Program Work Group, 2020-. Member, Joint Information Technology and Biotechnology Committee, 2014; Joint Committee on Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Biotechnology, 2014-18. Senate Chair, Joint Committee on Federal Relations, 2015-18 (member, 2014-18). Associate member, Women Legislators of Maryland, 2018-. Member, National Conference of State Legislatures, 2016- (vice-chair, communications, financial services & interstate commerce standing committee, 2016-18, member, 2019-; member, executive committee task force on state & local taxation, 2018-; energy supply task force, 2019-). Member, Eastern Regional Conference Council of State Governments, 2019- (energy & environment committee, 2019-; health committee, 2019-).
Member, Maryland Offshore Wind Business Development Advisory Committee, 2013-14; Maryland Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Council, 2013-17. Board of Directors, Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments, 2014- (human services & public safety policy committee, 2017-). Member, Transit Task Force, Montgomery County, 2015; Task Force on the Maryland Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Program, 2015-16; Task Force to Study Maternal Mental Health, 2015-16; Maryland Economic Development Commission, 2015-. Co-Chair, Task Force to Study Family and Medical Leave Insurance, 2016-18. Senate Chair, Maryland Health Insurance Coverage Protection Commission, 2017-. Member, Southern States Energy Board, 2019-.
Member of House of Delegates, representing District 15, Montgomery County, January 8, 2003 to September 17, 2013. Parliamentarian, 2011-13. Member, Economic Matters Committee, 2003-13 (business regulation subcommittee, 2003-10; corporations work group, 2003-06; property & casualty insurance subcommittee, 2003-13; consumer protection & commercial law subcommittee, 2007-10; chair, banking, economic development, science & technology subcommittee, 2007-13); Medical Malpractice Insurance Work Group, 2004; Joint Committee on Access to Mental Health Services, 2005-11. House Chair, Joint Technology Oversight Committee, 2007-09. Member, Joint Committee on Administrative, Executive and Legislative Review, 2007-13. House Chair, Joint Information Technology and Biotechnology Committee, 2009-13. Member, Rules and Executive Nominations Committee, 2011-13; Regional Revitalization Work Group, 2013-. House Chair, Montgomery County Delegation, 2007-12 (transportation committee, 2003-07; county affairs committee, 2011-13). Member, Maryland Veterans Caucus, 2005-. Member, National Conference of State Legislatures (financial services committee, 2005-07; vice-chair, communications, financial services & interstate commerce committee, 2016-, member, 2007-).
Member, Task Force on Assistance to Disabled Veterans Establishing Small Businesses, 2005.
Trial attorney, Tax Division, U.S. Department of Justice, 1988-2001
Special Guest Speaker on January 14, 2021: State Senator Brian Feldman with a Legislative Session Outlook
Dr. Christopher Puttock is an environmental scientist and botanist with more than 35 years’ experience in environmental conservation. In addition to his role asExecutive Director of Chesapeake Natives, he is a research associate in the Botany Department at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History. Dr. Puttock has led many outreach programs for greater community awareness of the consequences of human interruption to the natural environment.
As a conservation scientist, he is convinced that without the effective implementation of outreach strategies to coordinate sustainable use of natural resources and to preserve the world’s ecosystems, the welfare of humanity and all the Earth’s biodiversity will continue to suffer irreparable degradation. Through his work with Chesapeake Natives, he preserves, propagates and promotes plants native to the Chesapeake watershed. Native seeds are gathered and grown by volunteers on the grounds and in the historic greenhouses of Mt. Airy Mansion in Rosaryville State Park, MD.
Dr. Puttock has been President of the Botanical Society of Washington, and a board member of the Maryland Native Plant Society and the Hawaii Conservation Alliance Foundation. Prior to that, he lived in Australia for 34 years as a botanist and writer for Flora of Australia. He was born in England. Dr. Puttock holds a doctorate in plant systematics and a diploma in science education, with many years of fieldwork and research experience in biodiversity, staff supervision and educational outreach.
Dr. Christopher F. Puttock, Rotary District Environment Committee & ESRAG Chair is Guest Speaker on December 17, 2020
Eric Bernard, President of the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department and Executive Director of the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Association was our Guest Speaker on December 10, 2020 (via Zoom)
Eric Bernard is the President and Chairman of the Board of the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department. He is also the Executive Director of the Montgomery County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association serving as the chief advocate on policy, directives, governmental relations, negotiations and public safety for Montgomery County's 19 local volunteer fire and rescue departments with over 1600 active professional volunteer members. Eric is an Adjunct Professor of Forensic Science at The George Washington University teaching graduate courses in forensic pathology/death investigations, forensic investigations, the biological aspects of forensic science, field medicine, weapons of mass destruction and emergency response. He is also on the faculty at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine.
Eric Bernard, President of the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department and Executive Director of the Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Association will be our guest speaker on December 10, 2020 (via Zoom)
President Todd Nitkin will hold a Club Assembly and Report on the Completion of Our Club's Largest International Project, a School in Rural Ethiopia on December 3, 2020
Dr. Robert Freedman was our Guest Speaker on November 19, 2020 and gave an excellent presentation on the Israel-UAE Peace Agreement and the Outlook for the Middle East
Professor Freedman received his B.A. in Diplomatic History from the University of Pennsylvania and his M.A. and Ph.D. degrees in International Relations from Columbia University. He was an Assistant Professor of Russian History at the United States Military Academy and Associate Professor of Political Science and Russian at Marquette University, before his extended career in Baltimore as Professor of Political Science and later the President of the Baltimore Hebrew University, and now Visiting Professor at Johns Hopkins University. He is the author or co-author of five books on Soviet foreign policy and fifteen on Israel and the Middle East. He has consulted with U.S. and Israeli government agencies, served on significant government delegations, and been a commentator innumerable times on major news outlets.
Dr. Robert Freedman is our Guest Speaker on November 19, 2020
Trina Sensenig is a 3rd year beekeeper in Potomac, with 7 hives in her back yard. She is the current the Montgomery County Beekeepers’ Association secretary. Her first-harvest honey in 2019 won a best-tasting award from Mont. County and an all-around award from MSBA. She will bring some remaining awarded honey, but most of it is the 2020 harvest this summer. Former life: She grew up in the Philippines and came to the US for doctorate studies in social psychology at Cornell University. She is retired from Bishop O’Connell HS in Arlington VA, directing the school-wide Christian Service Program. Before that, she worked with rural women in Tanzania and Zaire (now Dem. Republic of the Congo) for 4 years in the ‘80s, and upon her return to the US, managed development projects funded by USAID, and Pew and Hewlett Foundations. It has been an unforeseen route from development work to hobby beekeeping, though not surprising because of her interest in the environment and gardening. It is a challenging hobby working with tens of thousands of unpredictable females!
Trina Sensenig, Award-Winning Beekeeper, is our Guest Speaker at the Rotary Club Meeting on November 12, 2020
[L-R] Vincent Upole, Commander of the Rockville Barrack of the Maryland State Police, Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Treasurer Phil Meade and Fire Marshal Brian Geraci. Phil presented both guests with a Rotary wine glass.
Last Thursday at our social at Bretton Woods, Dr. Noel Howard brought back Fritz Cineas to enjoy the camaraderie and perhaps to rejoin our Club. As you probably remember, Fritz was a member of the Potomac Bethesda Rotary Club years ago. He was the Ambassador from Haiti.
Rotarians Enjoyed Fine Food and Fellowship at Bretton Woods on October 29, 2020
Lt. Vince Upole is a 19 year veteran of the Maryland State Police. He began his career in 2001 as a Cadet in the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division and is currently the Commander of the Rockville Barrack. Lt. Upole has worked various assignments throughout the State of Maryland but primarily in the Washington Metro Troop and Western Maryland. In 2014, he earned a Master's Degree in Management, and graduated with honors, from Johns Hopkins University. Lt. Upole is a current member of the National Tactical Officers Association and is a graduate of the NTOA Tactical Command College. He is a member of the Maryland State Police, Crisis Negotiation Team and assists with resolving high risk incidents across the State. He is also a member of the Maryland State Police Mobile Field Force to help restore peace during civil disorder that has reached violent levels. In addition to responding to incidents of civil disorder, the team also conducts search management functions, security for special events, protective details, counter-terrorism operations, and any other mission deemed critical to protect the citizens of Maryland.
Vincent Upole, Commander of the Rockville Barrack of the Maryland State Police will be our Guest Speaker at the Rotary Club Meeting on November 5, 2020
As I mentioned at the Rotary Club meeting, I am working on another project to supply computers to schools in Belize through my nonprofit Believe in Belize and my partnership with MESA in District 6600. This is the link to the first project I did a couple of years ago https://believeinbelize.org/stories/project-205-computers-for-schools-in-belize.
For this new project if you have any computers (monitors, printers, etc. are OK too) you would like to donate please email me to work out the logistics.
Also, I have an opportunity to purchase 65 used computers for $20 each at a total cost of $1300. If anyone is interested in helping fund this purchase you may do so through the PayPal link or by sending a check to Believe in Belize, 9402 Bentridge Ave., Potomac MD 20854. Donations are deductible per US code. Anyone not planning to itemize when filing their 2020 tax return should find this link to be of interest https://finance.yahoo.com/news/cares-act-expands-tax-deductions-220753231.html.
Stuart I. Silverman is the newest member of the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club and October 1 was his first day of membership. He is an attorney in Bethesda focusing on health care law.
Newest Potomac-Bethesda Rotarian Stuart I. Silverman gave his Classification Talk at the Rotary Club Meeting on October 1, 2020
Stuart I. Silverman is the newest member of the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club and October 1 is his first day of membership. He is an attorney in Bethesda focusing on health care law.
Newest Potomac-Bethesda Rotarian Stuart I. Silverman will give his Classification Talk at the Hybrid In-Person+Zoom Rotary Club Meeting on October 1, 2020
Diana Varela has been working for the Social Security Administration here in Montgomery County for over 20 years. As the Public Affairs Specialist she enjoys providing valuable information to residents regarding Social Security and everything it entails. Through her presentation attendees will begin to understand what Social Security means to their family’s financial future, and will obtain information about steps they can take today to ensure a retirement without financial worries.
Coming Up on Thursday, September 24: "Social Security…Securing Today and Tomorrow" is the topic by guest speaker Diana Varela
Nabil is a co-Founder of Believe in Belize. After visiting Belize with his wife for the first time in 2013, they fell in love with the country and decided to make it their home away from home. Believe in Belize is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Belizeans through education, health, and community development by partnering with other organizations to deliver high impact projects and services. Nabil’s initiative has delivered 205 PCs to Schools, bicycle reflectors, medical equipment and is planning on donating a fire truck. He also has initiatives in educational scholarships, emergency health, medical measurements, COVID-19 relief and more. Nabil retired as a Georgetown University professor in 2011. He spent 29 years of his professional career in Information Technology and Project Management, spanning the government, commercial and education sectors. He has academic degrees in Aerospace Engineering (Bachelor of Science), Systems Engineering (Masters of Science) and Engineering Management with specialty in Artificial Intelligence and Human Factors (Doctor of Science). He is married and has one daughter. Nabil's family origin is from Lebanon, but he was born in Egypt, raised in Kuwait and has lived in the US since 1979. Nabil is a Rotarian (since 2007), member of the Paul Harris Society and a member and Past President of the Rotary Club of Potomac-Bethesda. In his free time he enjoys watching sports and learning about history.
Nabil Bedewi gave an update on "Believe in Belize" at the Rotary Club meeting on September 3, 2020
Heidi Webb has been fundraising for worthy causes for more than 21 years. She began her career securing 8(a) minority status for government contract-seeking technology firms and helped land these companies multi-million dollar contracts with the Department of Education and the Department of Defense. Today, she is a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) and Founder/CEO of GreenKite Fundraising. In addition to her work, she volunteers extensively with Rotary, the Unfunded List and her local animal shelter.
Area Governor Heidi Webb is our guest speaker at the Rotary Club meeting on August 20, 2020
Lucy inspires confidence in her clients through their clothing style. She helps both men and women develop their own unique style, clean out their closets, put together outfits and shop for pieces that speak to their authentic image.
Lucy Bedewi will be giving a presentation on "Personal Fashion Styling" at the Rotary Club meeting on August 6, 2020.
Thanks very much to Past President Nabil Bedewi and Michael Henstra for all the wonderful support to keep the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club meeting via Zoom.
Hybrid Rotary Club Meeting on June 11, 2020, featured half of the Rotarians on Zoom and half dining outside at the Normandie Farm Restaurant
Dr. Harry Haverkos (who spoke about the coronavirus and his book, “On the Front Lines of the AIDS Pandemic,” at the Rotary Club meeting on March 5, 2020), returned via Zoom on June 4, 2020, and gave an update on the COVID-19 pandemic. Pictured with Dr. Harry Haverkos is his wife Dr. Lynn and President Dr. Todd Nitkin.
Dr. Harry Haverkos gave an update on the COVID-19 pandemic at the Rotary Club Meeting on June 4, 2020, via Zoom.
David M. Feehan is a world recognized expert in downtown revitalization. For more than forty years, he has provided leadership and management to successful downtown and business district organizations, founded and directed a technical assistance center for community development organizations and a public policy organization, authored numerous books and articles, and taught at two universities. He is often quoted by news media throughout North America, the Caribbean, and elsewhere. He is a frequent speaker at conferences and meetings, and has provided consulting services to many government agencies, organizations and associations. He has served on numerous boards of directors, and has chaired the boards of the International Downtown Association, the Responsible Hospitality Institute, and other organizations. As the chief executive of three downtown organizations and one community development corporation, Feehan managed major real estate and infrastructure projects, successful business attraction and retention programs, and an award-winning parking system. As the chief executive of two technical assistance centers, he provided organizational development, marketing, fundraising and other management support to more than 500 nonprofit organizations. As a consultant, Feehan has helped downtown and business district organizations as well as units of government develop visions and missions, strategic plans, innovative programs, and transformational processes.As an author and professor, he co-edited and wrote the most recognized textbook on downtown management, Making Business Districts Work, and is a frequent writer for journals and trade publications.
Guest Speaker Dave Feehan, President, Civitas Consulting LLC spoke about his book, “Design Downtown for Women - Men Will Follow” at the Rotary Club Zoom Meeting on May 21, 2020.
Ralph Buglass, a Montgomery County native and avid history buff, has taught at lifelong learning institutes associated with Johns Hopkins and American universities and Montgomery College. He speaks frequently to community groups, businesses, and other organizations as well as at national conferences. He is also a docent at Montgomery Parks’ restored Kingsley schoolhouse in Clarksburg’s Little Bennett Park. A graduate of Winston Churchill High School, he has a B.A. in American history from Cornell and an M.A. in journalism from American University.
Montgomery History's Ralph Buglass gave a presentation on "Potomac's First Family" at the Rotary Club Zoom Meeting on May 14, 2020, at 7pm via Zoom
Dr. Harry Haverkos spoke about the coronavirus and his book, “On the Front Lines of the AIDS Pandemic,” at the Rotary Club meeting on March 5, 2020. Pictured with Harry is his wife Dr. Lynn and President Dr. Todd Nitkin.
Dr. Harry Haverkos spoke about the coronavirus and his book, “On the Front Lines of the AIDS Pandemic,” at the Rotary Club meeting on March 5, 2020.
On June 5, 1981, five cases of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP) were reported in previously healthy homosexual men from Los Angeles, California. Within weeks, additional cases of PCP, life-threatening opportunistic infections and disseminated cases of a rare cancer, Kaposi’s sarcoma were reported. In many ways, was ideally suited to confront this new challenge. He had excellent training in infectious diseases and internal medicine and he was one of only a handful of physicians in the world at the time that had cared for a patient with this condition. Additionally, he brought energy, motivation, and an endlessly inquisitive mind to the Task Force. His impatience to solve the problem was laudable and inspiring. That is how Harry Haverkos got to the “front lines” during the early years of the AIDS epidemic and he tells the story compellingly and provocatively within these pages. – James W. Curran, MD, MPH, Dean, Rollins School of Public Health and Co-Director, Center for AIDS Research, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
Dr. Harry Haverkos, Author, will speak about his book, “On the Front Lines of the AIDS Pandemic,” at the Rotary Club meeting on March 5, 2020.
Gladys and Noel Howard led the effort to wrap and distribute pashmina scarves as Valentine's Day gifts to 75 homeless women in Rockville on February 13, 2020.
Anthony (Tony) Cancelosi, K.M. was appointed president and CEO of CLB in September 2005. Under his leadership, CLB is refocusing its priorities to better serve the needs of the residents living in Maryland, D.C., and Virginia who are blind or visually impaired. To accomplish this goal, Tony is expanding CLB’s strategic partnerships within the greater Washington, D.C. metropolitan area and forging alliances with other blindness and disability organizations, both regionally and nationally. Tony represents CLB on the District of Columbia’s Workforce Investment Council, the Northern Virginia Workforce Investment Board and Montgomery County’s Commission on People with Disabilities. As CLB increases the depth and outreach of its local programs, Tony is working to identify and cultivate new sources of private and government funding, reduce administrative expenses, and bring an increased level of fiscal accountability to the organization. Tony comes to CLB with extensive executive experience. Prior to joining the nonprofit organization, he was President of ICL, an international software company, and the CEO of several for-profit technology companies including iBrite, Inc., eStara, and Source Digital. He also served as COO for Kee Systems (now Sylvan Learning). His nonprofit experience includes involvement with the International Center for the Disabled, National Kidney Foundation, and the Special Olympics. In addition to serving on CLB’s Board of Directors, Tony serves on the Board of Directors of the DC Police Foundation, serves as secretary of the Providence Health Foundation, is president emeritus of the Association for Corporate Growth, serves of the Executive Committee of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, and he is co-chair of the Capitol Network Veterans Engagement Board. He serves a member of the Wharton Club, Leadership of Greater Washington Class of 2007, and the Rotary Club. Tony was elected “Man of the Year” by the 2013 Lido Civic Club of Washington, DC. In 2015, DC Councilmember Anita Bonds awarded him with the Community Cornerstone Award. In 2010, Tony wrote a book called Santa’s Secret, and all book sales benefit Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind. Tony completed the Executive Finance Program at the Wharton School of Business in Philadelphia and received a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from St. Joseph’s University, also in Philadelphia.
Tony Cancelosi, President & CEO, Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind, is our guest speaker at the Rotary Club meeting on February 20, 2020
Valentine's Presents for Homeless Women: February 13 at 6pm Baronessa Italian, 1302 E. Gude Dr; 7:15pm Interfaith Works Women's Ctr., 2 Taft Ct., Rockville
Koo is a businessman, who has owned and operated gas stations since 1973. This business has provided the funding for his philanthropic passions, such as his financial support for the Public Broadcast System (PBS), his involvement with the Church, and in giving to worthy causes to improve society. Koo has lived in the Washington, D.C. area since 1964, when he and his family emigrated from Hong Kong. His junior and high school years were greatly impacted by his music teacher, the famous Roberta Flack, and his tennis coach, Robert Johnson, Jr., whose father was Arthur Ashe’s coach. Koo was converted to the Church in 1998, when he was living in the Bethesda Ward in Maryland. He was born in Hong Kong, and his ancestral village is Taishan, Guangdong, China.
Patricia has assisted Koo as bookkeeper since they opened their first gas station in 1973. She obtained her RN in Hong Kong, and later returned to nursing school and received her U.S. nursing certification in Maryland. Patricia and Koo met in Washington, D.C. in 1971 when she emigrated from Hong Kong to the U.S. with her family. Patricia graduated from a Catholic girls’ school in Hong Kong. She and Koo have two children, Mark and Stephanie, and six grandchildren.
Koo Yuen will share his life story at the Rotary Club Meeting on February 6, 2020, at the Normandie Farm Restaurant.
Duane Carey is the President of The Maryland Free Enterprise Foundation (“Maryland Free”) and owner of IMPACT Marketing & Public Relations. Maryland Free is a statewide, nonpartisan political research and education organization supported by corporations, trade associations, chambers of commerce, small businesses, and individuals. They were founded in 1983 as Maryland Business for Responsive Government and changed the name in 2019 to better reflect their mission. Duane Carey is a frequent author and presenter of marketing seminars and workshops throughout Maryland. MBA, Johns Hopkins University; Winner: Business Person of the Year Award, Howard County Chamber of Commerce, 2014; Gubernatorial Appointee: Governor Hogan’s One Maryland Blue Ribbon Commission; Trustee, Howard Hospital Foundation, Howard County General Hospital; Past Chair, Howard County Chamber of Commerce.
Duane Carey, President of the Maryland Free Enterprise Foundation, is the Guest Speaker at the Rotary Club Meeting on January 23, 2020.
On January 2, 2020, Maryland Senator Brian Feldman was the Guest Speaker for our first Rotary Club Meeting in 2020, our Club's 40th Anniversary Year. He covered a number of topics and presented an overview of the legislative session that begins on January 8, 2020.
Brian J. Feldman represents the 15th Legislative District in the Maryland State Senate. He is the Vice Chair of the prestigious Senate Finance Committee and chairs its Energy and Public Utilities Subcommittee. Additionally, he is the Senate Chair of the Maryland Health Insurance Coverage Protection Commission and serves as a member of the Executive Nominations Committee and the Joint Committee on Legislative Ethics. He is also a member of the Maryland Economic Development Commission and, on a national level, a member of two task forces for the National Conference of State Legislatures – The Executive Committee Task Force on State and Local Taxation and The Energy Supply Task Force.
Senator Feldman's tenure in the General Assembly has been distinguished by his successful sponsorship of legislation to promote Maryland's biotechnology sector, create green jobs while reaching renewable energy goals, advocate for individuals with developmental differences and update and modernize Maryland's corporate, business and insurance laws. At present, given his role as Vice Chair of the Finance Committee, Mr. Feldman is at the center of the debate on health care coverage for Marylanders and prescription drug pricing. Prior to being elected to the Maryland State Senate, Brian was a member of the Maryland House of Delegates, serving on the House Economic Matters Committee and chairing its Banking, Economic Development, Science and Technology Subcommittee. Additionally, Brian was appointed to the leadership position of House Parliamentarian and also served as the House Chair of the Joint Information Technology and Biotechnology Committee and Chair of the Montgomery County House Delegation. As the only Attorney/CPA in the Maryland General Assembly, Senator Feldman practices law, specializing in tax litigation and tax controversies. He was previously employed by PriceWaterhouse and the U.S. Department of Justice, Tax Division, where he was a three-time recipient of the Justice Department's prestigious "Outstanding Attorney Award." Brian received a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from Penn State University, a Juris Doctor from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law, and a Master’s Degree in Government from Johns Hopkins University. At present, Brian is an adjunct professor at Johns Hopkins, teaching graduate courses on state policy making and federalism, and at the University of Maryland, teaching a graduate course on Health Care Policy. Numerous honors and awards have been conferred on Brian for his work in the Legislature. Most recently he received the Maryland League of Conservation Voters 2019 Climate Champion Award. The complete list can be found here. Currently, Brian sits on the Board of Directors for the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments and Montgomery Hospice. Brian and his wife, Janice, an attorney, have two children, Matthew and Rebecca, who both graduated from Montgomery County Public Schools.
On January 2, 2020, Maryland Senator Brian Feldman is the Guest Speaker for our first Rotary Club Meeting in 2020, our Club's 40th Anniversary Year
Nancy Mason and Bob Nelson returned from their trip to South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe and shared a PowerPoint Presentation at the Rotary Club Meeting on November 21, 2019
Nancy and Bob will share about their three-week adventure in Namibia, Zimbabwe and South Africa
including the Rotary Education Project in Ilitha, Cape Town, South Africa (shown above).
Nancy Mason and Bob Nelson are back from their trip to South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe and will be sharing highlights at the Rotary Club Meeting on November 21, 2019
Adrian Mikeliunas is an internationally acclaimed speaker, computer consultant, and an expert trainer. He is a Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), and a Certified Linux Professional and Instructor (CLP). For the past 30+ years, Adrian's broad computer systems experience includes serving as a project leader, security engineer, systems analyst, mobile developer, programmer, and technical instructor. He has extensive experience with personal computers, mobile devices, and mainframes. He shares his knowledge through conferences, white papers and the classes he teaches: Android, Linux, WordPress and Information Security.
TONIGHT: Guest Adrian Mikeliunas is an internationally acclaimed speaker, computer consultant, and an expert trainer.
[November 6, 2019] The beautiful bench from the Potomac Bethesda Rotary Club was delivered to our shelter today! The bench was placed in our non-smoking area for our ladies. Thank you so much for the lovely, thoughtful and useful donation to our center! Please send our deepest gratitude to the members of the Potomac Rotary Club for this generous donation! We will also post the donation on our Center's Facebook. Regards, Josiane Makon, LCSW-C, Program Director, Interfaith Works Women's Center, 2 Taft Court Suite 100, Rockville, MD 20850. www.iworksmc.org
Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Donates Bench to Interfaith Works Women's Center
By Frederique Irwin: Betty is a woman who radiates kindness and love. She is also a tenacious business owner who has demonstrated incredible courage and perseverance to build a wonderful place for aging persons to reside. Betty is the founder of LAYTONSVILLE ESTATES, an assisted living home for independent-minded residents who want to enjoy elegant comfort as well as genuine and devoted care. After 15 years of working in local area nursing homes, she felt dissatisfied with the care and treatment that the residents were receiving. She wanted to make a difference, but she did not know where to begin. After three of her four children left for college, Betty convinced her husband to convert their house into an assisted living home; she spent months going through the regulatory requirements (including having to move out and live somewhere else) to become an official business. She has endured countless setbacks and expenses that she did not anticipate, but she continued (and still continues!) to move forward to build her vision of a home where people could come and feel respected, loved, and welcome. Betty’s compassion for those around her and her respect for all people make her not only a woman we admire in business, but a woman we admire as an individual. She is truly a special person who is making a very big difference in the lives of people who deserve it the most.
Betty Kasasa will give her New Member Classification Talk at the Rotary Club Meeting on October 10, 2019
Marilyn Balcombe is the President /CEO of the Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber of Commerce. Marilyn is actively involved in land use planning, transportation and economic development. Her primary focus is bringing jobs to the Upcounty. Marilyn Balcombe is currently on FutureLink and a Past Chair of the Committee for Montgomery. Marilyn is also on the Leadership Group of Montgomery Moving Forward. Prior to being at the Chamber, Marilyn was with BlackRock Center for the Arts in Germantown as the Executive Director during the construction and the first year of operations. She was also on staff at the Upcounty Regional Services Center as the Community Outreach Coordinator for the Germantown community. Prior to her work in the community, Dr. Balcombe was an Organizational Psychologist with the U.S. Department of Energy. She holds a Ph.D. is Organizational Psychology from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville; a Masters degree in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Florida, and a Bachelors degree in Accounting also from the University of Florida.
Marilyn Balcombe, Ph.D., President and CEO – Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber of Commerce is our Rotary Club Guest Speaker on October 3, 2019
Billy D. Louis is an Information Technology Specialist working on Capitol Hill for the Architect of the Capitol, where he serves as the Manager of the Project Management Branch within the IT Division. Mr. Louis has over 30 years of experience in computer networking and project management, and has worked for several organizations including the American Red Cross, Chevy Chase Bank, including 21 years of Federal Service. In his professional career, Mr. Louis has deployed and managed computer networks and Internet infrastructure. Mr. Louis has provided a variety of IT services to NOAA including leading the effort to consolidate the disparate email system into one corporate enterprise email system. At the American Red Cross, Mr. Louis organized the automation of nearly 100 Red Cross bureaus, including Blood Regions, Key Resource Chapters, Field Service Offices, and Military-base service to the Armed Forces. Mr. Louis has a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Information Systems, and numerous technical and project management certificates. Billy Louis is married to his lovely wife Marilyn V. Louis. They have four children, three daughters and one son, and has been a resident of Bowie, MD for the past 20 years. Mr. Louis officially joined Rotary International in 2014. He is a polio survivor and will speak on "Living With Polio."
Billy Louis, Manager of the Project Management Branch at the Architect of the Capitol, will speak on "Living With Polio" at the Rotary Club Meeting at Normandie Farm Restaurant on September 26, 2019.
$1.6M Fire Engine Dedicated in Memory of Sander Cohen at Rockville Volunteer Fire Department on September 21, 2019, with parents Neil and Arlene Cohen attending
Nabil Bedewi presented part 1 of an update on "Believe in Belize" at the Rotary Club meeting on September 5, 2019; he'll present part 2 on September 12, 2019
Believe in Belize (believeinbelize.org) is an all volunteer non-profit with the main focus of implementing projects and providing services in the country of Belize. The goal of the organization is to provide a place for individuals and organizations who share a common interest in helping with the development of the country of Belize. On April 17, 2018 we incorporated in the State of Maryland, USA as a non-profit business named Believe in Belize, Inc. On March 26, 2019 we officially became an organization Exempt under IRC 501(c) (3) and classified as a public charity under IRC 170 (b) (1) (A) (vi).
Nabil Bedewi will present an update on "Believe in Belize" at the Rotary Club meeting on September 5, 2019
At age 21, Bob Hanson was named the first national president of the Rural Youth of the United States of America, a federation of youths involving Boy and Girl Scout troops, Future Farmers of America, 4-H Clubs, “and groups instrumental in learning from others,” he said. In the mid-1950s he was chairman of the Bethesda branch of the YMCA and was instrumental in raising money for their building on Old Georgetown Road. He was equally successful in getting property donated in the 1960s for the Boy Scout headquarters on Rockville Pike. For 33 years he was an allied member of the New York Stock Exchange.
Married to the late JoAnne Dinwell in 1950, the Hansons had three sons, John, Timothy and Charles. John, Tim and their families live nearby in North Potomac. A third son, Charles, (Chuck) and his family live in Colorado.
For over 60 years he has been a member of the Rockville Rotary Club. In 1958, he founded the Potomac Rotary Club. He has been a board member of the American Automobile Association; Montgomery County Fair (he was an original member); 4-H Club (he was a national president); and Future Farmers of America. However, his involvement with the YMCA probably the most satisfying of his civic involvements. [Excerpted from connectionnewspapers.com.]
Memories:
"He lived a good life and sure lived as a true Rotarian. I loved going out to his ‘farm’ and seeing his old car." - Jason Hamel
In Memoriam: Past Rotary District Governor Robert M. Hanson
Customs/Trade Facilitation Expert D. (Bonni) van Blarcom, Ph.D., gave a PowerPoint presentation on the topic, “Is the United States Playing Fair in Trade?” on August 15, 2019.
Dr. Van Blarcom worked at the United Nations, U.S. Department of State, U.S. Agency for International Development, and U.S. Library of Congress. Her experience includes interpreting national and international legislation, building capacity of governments, training, research and designing/assessing customs and trade projects on various assignments including those for the European Union, the World Bank, and the Asian Development Bank. She has traveled to 48 countries including work in custom administrations in Ethiopia (2018-2019), Ghana, Bangladesh, Zambia, as well as teaching at a Customs Academy and various Foreign Service Institutes (e.g., Ghana, United States, Philippines). Last month she started her own company, Customs and Border Management Services LLC. Dr. Van Blarcom attended the Knowledge Academy at the World Customs Organization in Brussels (2019), studied international trade law at Sydney Law School, has a doctorate from England (international trade), and master degrees from Columbia University (International Affairs) and the University of Minnesota (Economics).
D. (Bonni) van Blarcom, Ph.D., is a Customs/Trade Facilitation Expert and will be speaking on August 15, 2019, on the topic, “Is the United States Playing Fair in Trade?”
VP - Financial Consultant, Charles Schwab, 2018-present Associate Financial Consultant, Charles Schwab, 2017-2018 Investment Consultant, Charles Schwab, 2017-2017 High Net Worth Registered Representative, Charles Schwab, 2016-2017 Analyst, Credit Suisse, 2015-2016 Education B.S., Finance, North Carolina State University
Jake Matysek, Vice President - Financial Consultant, Charles Schwab, will give his New Member Classification Talk on August 8, 2019.
Jan Bresch is the Executive Director of Special Love, Inc., a non-profit whose mission is to provide a community of support for children with cancer and their families. Special Love provides a nurturing environment of free camps and programs, while helping with emergency financial assistance and educational scholarships for young survivors. She is responsible for leading all aspects of Special Love’s mission to support children with cancer and their families. Jan joined Special Love in 2018 after serving as a member of its Board of Directors. Prior to Special Love, she was the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Prevent Cancer Foundation, and served as the Director of Development and Public Relations for the Children’s Inn at the National Institutes of Health, Public Broadcasting professional, advisor for other organizations such as Stupid Cancer and AOL.
Jan Bresch, Executive Director, Special Love, Will Discuss Helping Children with Cancer at the Rotary Club Meeting on August 1, 2019
Crystal Townsend, President & CEO, Healthcare Initiative Foundation, spoke about supporting organizations that offer solutions to improve the quality and delivery of healthcare on July 18, 2019.
Townsend is the President & CEO of the Healthcare Initiative Foundation which supports organizations that offer solutions to improve the capacity, availability and the delivery of quality health and wellness services for Montgomery County residents. The Foundation has distributed over $83 million since inception particularly focused on the most vulnerable in our community. Townsend currently serves on the Leadership Montgomery Board, Committee for Montgomery Board, Regional Primary Coalition, Suburban Hospital Community Benefit Advisory Board, Washington Regional Association of Grantmakers Board, County Executive Transition Team, and the BlackRock Center for the Arts Gala Committee. Prior board service includes, Nonprofit Montgomery FIRM Advisory Committee, United Way of NCA, Friends of Wells Robertson House, Inc., and Montgomery County Social Services Board. Preceding her work with the Foundation, Townsend was the City of Gaithersburg's Community Services Director overseeing and coordinating health and human services for City residents. Prior to her service with the city, she served as the Family Support Services Administrator for Family Services, Inc. managing early intervention and home visiting programs. Earlier in her career, she was the Healthy Families Frederick Program Manager, Legislative Director for the U.S. Overseas Cooperative Development Council, a Peace Corps Volunteer in Romania, and the Domestic Violence Shelter Manager for Heartly House. Townsend attained her Bachelor of Arts from Hood College in Law and Society and holds a Master of Public Administration from Rutgers University from the International Public Service and Development Program.
July 18 Speaker: Crystal Townsend, President & CEO, Healthcare Initiative Foundation, supporting organizations that offer solutions to improve the quality and delivery of healthcare for residents of Montgomery County.
Dr. Franziska Grieder, Director, Office of Research Infrastructure Programs (ORIP), NIH, spoke about “Switzerland Insights” at the Rotary Club Meeting on July 11, 2019.
Dr. Franziska Grieder is the Director of the Office of Research Infrastructure Programs (ORIP), a program within the Office of the Director, the National Institutes of Health (NIH). She was appointed as ORIP Director in January 2013 after serving as the Division Director of Comparative Medicine programs since 2004. ORIP supports NIH extramural research infrastructure and related research programs, including supervision and management of the seven national primate research centers, primate breeding and resource-related projects, development of mammalian (including rodent) and non-mammalian animal model resources, pre-and post-doctoral training for veterinarians, other research projects, and the shared and high-end instrumentation program. Dr. Grieder attended Veterinary School at the University of Zurich in Switzerland and subsequently earned both an MS and PhD degree in viral pathogenesis from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She was a faculty member in the School of Medicine of the Uniformed Services University (USU) in Bethesda, Maryland, where – after her transition to NIH – she continues to serve as an Adjunct faculty member in the Department of Pathology. At USU, Dr. Grieder’s research focused on viral pathogenesis using mouse models to investigate neuroimmune mechanisms.
Dr. Franziska Grieder, Director, Office of Research Infrastructure Programs (ORIP), NIH, will speak about “Switzerland Insights” at the Rotary Club Meeting on July 11, 2019.
Paul Shank, Chief Engineer, BWI Airport, spoke about "Taking to the Sky: BWI Marshall’s Plans to Lift the Region Higher" at the Rotary Club meeting on June 27, 2019.
Mr. Shank is the Chief Engineer at the Maryland Aviation Administration overseeing the planning, design and construction of the airport’s multihundred million-dollar capital improvement and systems preservation programs at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport and Martin State Airport. He oversees MAA’s Offices of Planning and Environmental Services; and Office of Engineering and Construction and; Office of Noise, Real Estate and Land Use Compatibility. Mr. Shank has over 40 years of experience in airport development and associated transportation, commercial and institutional development. His accomplishments are measured in billions of dollars of projects completed throughout the United States and overseas. He is a Professional Engineer and a Certified Member of the American Association of Airport Executives, and recipient of the 2015 AASHTO President’s Transportation Award for Aviation. Mr. Shank is a commercial pilot, flight instructor and aircraft owner. Aviation is his passion.
Paul Shank, Chief Engineer, BWI Airport, will speak about "Taking to the Sky: BWI Marshall’s Plans to Lift the Region Higher" at the Rotary Club meeting on June 27, 2019
There are Paul Harris (PH) credits available for members to make up the $1000 donation required. It works this way: If you pay half of the amount you need for a PH fellowship, then the club will use available credits to make up the balance. So for instance say you already have PH credits amounting to $ 600. If you donate another $200, then the club will match your amount with some of those credits bringing the total to $ 1000 and bringing you a PH fellowship! And Rotary benefits, too!
Matching Paul Harris Credits for Rotary Foundation Donations
Shane Rock, CEO, Interfaith Works, talked about Interfaith Works and Homelessness in Montgomery County at the Rotary Club Meeting on June 6, 2019. He commended Gladys Howard and the Rotarians for the wonderful program of distributing pashmina scarves to 70 homeless women on Valentine’s Day.
Jerome Fletcher, Montgomery County Executive's Assistant Chief Administrative Officer, spoke about "Growing the Economy and Small Business Development" at the Rotary Club Meeting on May 30, 2019.
Alfred Jerome Fletcher II has spent a career in government, working as the senior deputy director for the District of Columbia’s Department of Small and Local Business development and as an administrator in the District’s general services agency for several years. His area of focus as Assistant Chief Adminstrative Officer for Montgomery County is working with county departments and staff to grow the economy and make government more sustainable — two key pledges County Executive Marc Elrich made during last year’s campaign.
Jerome Fletcher, Montgomery County Executive's Asst. Chief Administrative Officer, will speak about "Growing the Economy and Small Business Development" at the Rotary Club Meeting on May 30, 2019
Andrew R. Arthur, Resident Fellow in Law and Policy for the Center for Immigration Studies, discussed “The Impact of Immigration on American Society” at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on May 16, 2019.
Andrew “Art” Arthur serves as Resident Fellow in Law and Policy for the Center for Immigration Studies, a Washington, DC-based research institute that examines the impact of immigration on American society. He began his legal career through the Attorney General’s Honors Program as a clerk to Administrative Law Judge Joseph E. McGuire in the Office of the Chief Administrative Hearing Officer at the United States Department of Justice, Executive Office for Immigration Review. After a two-year clerkship with Judge McGuire, he received a second Honors Program appointment as a Trial Attorney in the San Francisco District Counsel’s Office, and later the Baltimore District Counsel’s Office, of the former Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS). In 1999, he was promoted to the INS’s General Counsel’s Office in Washington DC, first as an Associate General Counsel, and later as an Assistant General Counsel and Acting Chief of the INS National Security Law Division. In the General Counsel’s Office, Mr. Arthur supervised attorneys handling cases involving espionage, terrorism, and persecutors. He also advised the Attorney General, Deputy Attorney General, and INS Commissioner on issues relating to national security. In July 2001, Mr. Arthur left the INS to become a Counsel on the House Judiciary Committee, where he performed oversight of immigration issues. After five years at House Judiciary, he was appointed to the immigration bench, serving for eight years as an Immigration Judge at the York Immigration Court in York, Pennsylvania. At the beginning of the 114th Congress, Judge Arthur left the bench and came back to Capitol Hill, where he served as Staff Director of the National Security Subcommittee at House Oversight and Government Reform before taking retirement from federal service in September 2016. He is a graduate of the University of Virginia (BA 1988), and of the George Washington University School of Law (JD 1992).
Andrew R. Arthur, Resident Fellow in Law and Policy for the Center for Immigration Studies, will Discuss “The Impact of Immigration on American Society” at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on May 16, 2019.
Montgomery County Police Chief Tom Manger (ret.) spoke about Crime and Safety in Montgomery County as well as National Policing Issues at the Rotary Club Meeting on May 9, 2019
Chief J. Thomas Manger has been the Chief of Police in Montgomery County, Maryland, since February 2004. He began his law enforcement career in 1977 with the Fairfax County (Virginia) Police Department. He rose through the ranks to become Chief of Police in 1998. During his tenure in Fairfax County, Chief Manger received numerous awards including the Silver Medal of Valor. Chief Manger is credited with reorganizing and expanding the Police Department’s Community Policing efforts. His commitment to the highest ethical standards for policing and his enactment of new policies to increase departmental accountability earned significant recognition from the community, including the Fairfax County Human Rights Commission Award for outstanding contributions, and the N.A.A.C.P.’s Community Service Leadership Award. In 2012, Chief Manger was inducted into the Montgomery County Human Rights Hall of Fame. Chief Manger is a graduate of the F.B.I. National Academy, the National Executive Institute, the Police Executive Leadership School at the University of Richmond, and the Senior Executive Institute at the University of Virginia, and he has also completed Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School’s Program for State and Local government. Following his retirement in March 2019, Chief Manger is now the Senior Associate Director for the Major Cities Chiefs Association Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs.
Montgomery County Police Chief Tom Manger (ret.) will speak about Crime and Safety in Montgomery County as well as National Policing Issues at the Rotary Club Meeting on May 9, 2019
Manuel Suarez-Mier has taught economics at various universities in the US and Mexico and was Director of the Center for North American Studies at American University 2014-2015. In a professional career that spans over 40 years, Suárez-Mier successively combined working in the financial system and Foreign Service of Mexico as well as for transnational financial institutions, with teaching economics at the Technological Institute of Mexico and the universities of New Mexico, Georgetown and American in Washington DC. He did his doctoral studies at the University of Chicago, was the Chief of Staff of the Governor of the Bank of Mexico and the top economic diplomat in Washington at the time of the negotiations of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) between the U.S., Canada and Mexico. More recently (2007-09), he represented the Attorney General of Mexico in the U.S. when the Mérida Initiative, a plan for both nations to jointly fight transnational criminal organizations, was negotiated and approved by the U.S. Congress. He has written extensively on issues related to Latin America’s political economy and security issues in North America and writes a weekly column in Mexico City’s newspaper Excelsior and monthly at the Asian Times of Hong Kong and appeared in countless interviews for radio and TV with Al Jazeera, BBC, Bloomberg, CCTV, CNN and Reuters.
Manuel Suarez-Mier will talk about United States-Mexico Relations at the Rotary Club Meeting on May 2, 2019
Author and Speaker David O. Stewart discussed “The Summer of 1787: The Men Who Invented the Constitution” at the Rotary Club Meeting on April 18, 2019.
After many years as a trial and appellate lawyer, David O. Stewart became a bestselling writer of history and historical fiction. His histories have explored the writing of the Constitution, the gifts of James Madison, the outrageous western expediti on and treason trial of the mysterious Aaron Burr, and the impeachment trial of President Andrew Johnson. His histories have won the Washington Writing Award for best book of the year, the History Prize of the Society of the Cincinnati, and the William H. Prescott Award of the National Society of Colonial Dames of America. His first novel, The Lincoln Deception, about the John Wilkes Booth Conspiracy, was called the best historical novel of 2013 by Bloomberg View. Sequels include The Wilson Deception, set at the Paris Peace Conference in 1919, and The Babe Ruth Deception, which follows the Babe’s first two years with the Yankees.
Author and Speaker David O. Stewart will discuss “The Summer of 1787: The Men Who Invented the Constitution” at the Rotary Club Meeting on Thursday, April 18, 2019
"I've been doing journalism since the age of 6, when I launched the late, lamented Levey's News (circulation: 1). I served as editor, publisher, columnist, and crayon-er. My mother still has copies for the curious. My college diploma says I majored in English, but I actually majored in editing the student newspaper. I took over as editor-in-chief on Nov. 22, 1963 (talk about your basic baptism by fire). I did everything from paste-up to tossing bundles on front stoops. It qualified me for my first professional job: cub reporter for the Albuquerque Tribune, a Scribbs-Howard p.m. I spent 13 months there before falling in love with a young woman who lived in D.C. While on a Labor Day, 1967, visit to her, I decided to apply to the Post. It lasted. We didn't. In my first 14 years on the staff, I worked as (in order) night police reporter, day police reporter, roving national political reporter, assistant city editor, courts reporter, District Building reporter, Capitol Hill reporter, feature writer, assistant sports editor, and feature writer again. In June 1981, I was asked to write a daily column. Having tried just about everything else, I signed up. It lasted. Somehow, 3,000 columns later, I have too. I was born in Manhattan and grew up in the Bronx. I escaped at a tender age to attend the University of Chicago, where I earned a BA with special honors. I've worked for seven local radio stations and four local TV stations as a commentator and talk show host. I've taught journalism at three local universities. I'm a life master and regional champion at tournament bridge, and I still play competitive slow-pitch softball (good field, spotty hit). I'm married to historian (and recovering journalist) Jane Freundel Levey. I have two children, both of whom profess to be bored by newspapers, but there's time."
This Thursday’s Guest Speaker is Bob Levey, Washington Post Columnist (Retired), who has published a Novel about Journalism and Montgomery County Politics, "Larry Felder, Candidate"
Evolved from its beginnings in 2006, what is now Exerceo, started as Co-founder, Brian Walsh's desire and commitment to give back to the community. Brian tirelessly taught and mentored people living in his Howard County community. His original focus on high school students quickly expanded to college students and adults of all ages looking to begin careers in the IT field. Brian's IT services business, Sofiac, Inc. was used as a vehicle to offer unique hands on experience to the people he mentored and trained. In November 2014 Exerceo received its 501(C)(3) non-profit status from the IRS. Exerceo, Latin meaning to train, cultivate, keep at work, exercise, practice – exists to lead and inspire others to transform society by extending relevant learning and mentorship into everyday lifestyle.
Brian Walsh, Co-Founder, Exerceo, speaks on “Mentoring Young Professionals” at the Rotary Club Meeting on April 4, 2019
On March 21, 2019, Master Gardener Merikay Smith Gave a PowerPoint Presentation on How She’s Using Native Plants to Convert Her Lawn into a Healthier Habitat of Trees, Shrubs, and Perennials
With avid gardeners for parents and grandparents, Merikay has been surrounded by blooming plants and eating home-grown foods all her life. Merikay has a 2-acre garden in Darnestown where, with the help of her husband and son, she is converting a vast expanse of lawn into a healthier habitat of trees, shrubs, and perennials. Merikay has been a Master Gardener since 2007 and has served as the Chair of the Speakers Group. Merikay also serves on the Board of the Muddy Branch Alliance and the Seneca Creek Watershed Partners, local watershed protection groups. Merikay has organized their native tree initiative since 2014, distributing nearly 2,000 native trees to neighbors in the watershed areas. She is also the MBA Board lead for the Lands Green Waters Clean initiative. She is the founder of Earth Stewardship East, a local faith-based environmental group (www.eartheast.org) which has created conservation landscaping on an historic site and hosts a variety of earth stewardship events.
On March 21, 2019, Master Gardener Merikay Smith Shows How She’s Using Native Plants to Convert Her Lawn into a Healthier Habitat of Trees, Shrubs, and Perennials
Kevin M. Coleman is the founder of KMC Empowerment where he provides empowering speeches, leadership training, and coaching to help make individuals and organizations successful. KMC Empowerment was established to help promote professionalism, work ethic, passion, and relationship building techniques that will inspire individuals and organizations to strive toward excellence at all times. Kevin also helps the U.S. Government by fostering great interpersonal communication between clients and customers. Kevin served as the President of the Benjamin Banneker Chapter (BBC) of Blacks In Government (BIG). Kevin serves as an officer at his local Church. He is also a Class Leader for 15 families and serves as Chaplain for the Class Leader Ministry and Steward Board. In addition, he is actively involved in the TV, Health, and Outreach ministries of his Church. His interests are empowerment speaking, training, outreach, coaching, reading, writing, and spending time with family. In the training The 3 Key Laws for Personal/Professional Growth, the audience will learn how to be an effective next generation leader. Most people understand that they need to grow in order to reach their potential, but few are intentional about it, and fewer still have a plan to direct their growth. People plan their vacations, and careers, but invest little time in plotting out their personal growth. This training will serve as a blueprint for your growth. This interactive training consists of solid examples that will help position you for next generation growth as an individual.
Empowerment Speaker Kevin Coleman Presents "The 3 Key Laws for Personal / Professional Growth" at the Rotary Club Meeting on March 7, 2019.
This week's guest speaker is Pedro Zavarce, CEO and Senior Producer, of PZ Video. PZ Video Productions, Inc. is a full-service production company with over 25 years of professional production experience, providing creative video, audio and photography solutions to a range of clients, from small to large corporations.
"The Power of Video to Engage People" is Pedro Zavarce's Topic at the February 21, 2019, Rotary Club Meeting
Hi Mr. Kavadoy, I am writing you concerning my daughter's desire to give your club members free tickets to her theater company's annual gala. My daughter, Susan Alexander Thompson, has been involved in the theater scene in Maryland for 30 years. She performed and taught for years with the Young Americans of Washington in Wheaton and represented the state as Miss Maryland in the Miss America pageant in Atlantic City in 1996. She now has her own company, Take the Stage, in Rockville and teaches musical theater to many very talented youngsters. Attached is a poster/flyer that is self-explanatory and it offers free tickets to attend Take The Stage's (TTS) Sixth annual Broadway Revue Showcase "Stand Out" on February 22, 23, and 24 at the Kreeger Theater in Rockville. This invitation is made to the Rotary Club, its members and anyone they wish to give the tickets to. Please note that you should use the discount code "rotary" to obtain free tickets at: www.takethestageperformance.org. Thanks and let me know if you need anymore info. I hope you can attend and we have a chance to meet. Dan Alexander. 703-967-5488
Take The Stage's (TTS) Sixth annual Broadway Revue Showcase "Stand Out" on February 22, 23, and 24 at the Kreeger Theater in Rockville
Christopher B. Summers is founder and president and chief executive officer of the Maryland Public Policy Institute, Maryland's leading public-policy think tank. A native of Baltimore City and veteran of the Armed Forces, Mr. Summers has an extensive background in public policy and economic policy research. Prior to launching the Maryland Public Policy Institute, Mr. Summers held positions on Capitol Hill and in the nonprofit sector, including the Capital Research Center, a Washington-based think tank that studies corporate philanthropy and funding of issue advocacy organizations, and in the Thomas A. Roe Institute for Economic Policy Studies at The Heritage Foundation. His opinion editorials have appeared in The Baltimore Examiner, The Baltimore Sun, The Montgomery Journal, The Daily Record, The Fresno Bee, The Cumberland-Times News,The Baltimore Business Journal, and National Review. Mr. Summers holds a B.A. in Government and Politics from the University of Maryland.
Christopher Summers, CEO and President of the Maryland Public Policy Institute, will be our guest speaker on February 7, 2019.
Julie Meade Discussed the Question, "Why do some people become alcoholics while others don’t?" at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club meeting on January 31, 2019. (Photo by Tom Lewis)
Julie Meade Discussed the Question, "Why do some people become alcoholics while others don’t?" at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club meeting on January 31, 2019.
Julie Meade is a Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia. An awardee of the Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award Individual Predoctoral Fellowship, her dissertation work focuses on the neuroscience and pharmacology of drug use, depression, and chronic pain. A microscopic, hermaphroditic worm that readily eats Jell-O shots might hold the secret in its ancient DNA to what separates a social drinker from an alcoholic. This lecture and PowerPoint presentation will discuss how scientists can use worm genetics to develop new treatments for human alcohol use disorders.
Julie Meade Discusses the Question, "Why do some people become alcoholics while others don’t?" at the Rotary Club meeting on January 31, 2019, at Normandie Farm Restaurant
The Montgomery County Planning Board sets policy on parks and planning issues, prepares master plans for County Council action, and acts as the final decision-maker in subdivision reviews and for site, sketch and project plans. The Board makes recommendations to the County Council, the Board of Appeals, the school system, and other local, county, state, and federal agencies on projects affecting land use. The Planning Board reviews and makes recommendations on the County’s Capital Improvements Program, reviews and approves land acquisitions and major park development contracts, and approves plans to develop park facilities. Gerald Cichy worked at the Maryland Transit Administration/Maryland Department of Transportation on projects such as the Corridor Cities Transitway, Purple Line light rail system and regional transit-oriented developments. From 1979 to 1984, he was director of transportation for Montgomery County and collaborated with federal, state and county agencies as well as developer and citizen groups to solve mutual problems. During his tenure, Gerald Cichy worked with Planning Department staff to coordinate implementation of master plan transportation projects. Among Gerald Cichy’s achievements is a patent for a bus rapid transit vehicle with doors directly opening to transit platforms. He is a recipient of the Federal Transit Administration’s “Innovative Idea Award” for a 200-mile bus rapid transit system supplementing the Metrorail system in the Washington, DC region. In 2016, he graduated from the Senior Leadership Montgomery program. Gerald Cichy holds master degrees in both city and regional planning, and civil engineering from Catholic University. The Rockville resident has lived in Montgomery County for nearly 50 years.
Montgomery Planning Board Commissioner Gerald Cichy is our guest speaker on January 24, 2019
Strathmore is a nonprofit multi-disciplinary arts center and presenting organization based one-half mile outside the Capital Beltway in North Bethesda. Best known for performances and events at the Music Center at Strathmore, the organization has been presenting accessible, affordable visual and performing arts in the smaller Mansion at Strathmore and all over its 16-acre site since 1981. Strathmore also presents throughout the community and at a new 250-seat venue, AMP, at Pike & Rose. Bill Carey is the Director of Donor and Community Relations and is responsible for the day-to-day administration of the membership programs, special fundraising activities, and the community relations programs for Strathmore. Prior to joining Strathmore in 2002, Bill Carey served as the Deputy Director of Public Affairs for the financial regulator, the Federal Housing Finance Board in Washington and retired from government service in 2000. He is a resident of Kensington, MD and works for the National Hockey League as an off-ice official.
Bill Carey, Director of Donor and Community Relations, Strathmore is the guest speaker on January 17, 2019.
Visit Montgomery, MD is the destination marketing organization for Montgomery County, Maryland – located just north of Washington, DC. Whether you’re traveling to the Metropolitan area for business or leisure, we’re here to bring you helpful information about our area, no matter the season.
The mission of Visit Montgomery is to give our visitors useful information for a visit to Montgomery County and Washington, DC area and to enthusiastically promote, market, and sell Montgomery County, Maryland as a destination for meetings, conventions and travelers, fostering economic development and benefiting and supporting members and the overall business community. We love advocating, promoting, and partnering with local, county and state organizations and government officials in an effort to further these goals.
Close. For Comfort
Kelly Groff, President and CEO, Visit Montgomery will speak about attracting tourists to Montgomery County at the Rotary Club Meeting on January 10, 2019
Thursday, January 3: Meeting at Normandie Farm Restaurant
Guest Speaker: Francey Youngberg, Vice President for External Affairs, Melwood
As the Vice President for External Affairs, Francey Lim Youngberg manages the teams responsible for marketing, communications, fund development, vehicle donations, volunteer recruitment, and special events. She brings to Melwood 30 years of experience from the private, nonprofit and public sectors including congressional and intergovernmental relations, public affairs/public engagement, fundraising, advocacy, and volunteer management. Previously, Francey was a presidential appointee under the Obama Administration. For seven years, she served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Public Engagement and Deputy Assistant Secretary for Intergovernmental Affairs for the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). She was responsible for managing the key stakeholder relationships of the HUD Secretary to advance the Agency’s budgetary and policy priorities in Congress and in the media. Francey also represented HUD at several White House councils and initiatives. She led HUD’s team in creating the multi-year agency plans and delivering on their stated goals.
Prior to joining HUD, Francey advised clients for 10 years on cultural competency, merchant and community outreach, minority recruitment, language access needs, and fundraising. Her clients included the Smithsonian, D.C. Government, D.C. Metro Police Department, H Street Community Development Corporation, as well as federal agencies and nonprofits.
Prior to consulting, Ms. Youngberg was a tax attorney for Morgan Lewis in Philadelphia, and Hogan & Lovells in D.C. and a regulatory attorney for the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. She left legal practice to serve as the founding Executive Director of the Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies. Ms. Youngberg graduated from Wellesley College and Harvard Law School.
Francey Youngberg, Vice President for External Affairs, Melwood, is our Guest Speaker for the First Rotary Club Meeting of 2019
Dr. Mary Lynne Dittmar is President and CEO of the Coalition for Deep Space Exploration, an industry trade group supporting human exploration, science, and commerce in deep space. Under her leadership the Coalition has grown from 5 companies to more than 60 over the past three years and is a well-regarded source of information, policy thought leadership, and education in support of NASA’s programs, the aerospace industry, and national leadership in space.
Before starting her own consulting firm in 2004, Dr. Dittmar coordinated R&D and later managed Flight Operations for The Boeing Company on the International Space Station Program. More recently she was Senior Policy Advisor to the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS), which manages the International Space Station National Laboratory. She has also served as a senior advisor to NASA, the DoD, and the FAA.
Mary Lynne is a Fellow of the National Research Society, an Associate Fellow of the American Institute for Astronautics and Aeronautics, and serves on the Board of Directors of the American Astronautical Society. From 2012-2014 she was a member of the National Research Council Committee on Human Spaceflight, and is currently in her second term as a member of the Executive Committee of the Space Studies Board of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine. In June of 2018 she was appointed by the NASA Administrator to the User’s Advisory Group of the National Space Council. She resides in Washington, D.C.
Dr. Mary Lynne Dittmar will talk about the business of space, why space exploration is valuable and how we can all benefit. The Coalition for Deep Space Exploration is an alliance of space industry businesses and advocacy groups collaborating to reinforce the value and benefits of deep space exploration with the public and our nation's leaders. The goal is to build lasting support for a long-term, sustainable, strategic direction for human space exploration and science, ensuring that the U.S. remains a leader in space, science and technology.
Thursday, December 20, 2018, at Bretton Woods: Dr. Mary Lynne Dittmar is President and CEO of the Coalition for Deep Space Exploration, and the Holiday Party. Please invite family, friends and prospective Rotarians!
In 2016, opioid addiction killed more people than car crashes did. Why are opioids so dangerous? The story starts with the discovery of a chemical made by the brain that is essentially morphine. This natural chemical can cause the same type of opioid overdose in infants as heroin causes in adults. Incredibly, children whose brains make too much of this chemical and addicts can both be brought back from the edge of death with the same pharmacological treatment.
This lecture and PowerPoint presentation will discuss the basics of how opioids produce pain relief and death, and what civilians can do to arm themselves against the opioid epidemic.
Julie Meade is a Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia. An awardee of the Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award Individual Predoctoral Fellowship, her dissertation work focuses on the neuroscience and pharmacology of drug use, depression, and chronic pain.
Julie Meade will speak on the topic "What you need to know about opioids" at the Rotary Club meeting on December 13, 2018
Nabil Bedewi spoke about "Believe in Belize" and the computerization projects partially funded by the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club at the meeting on December 6, 2018
Dr. Mary Lynne Dittmar is President and CEO of the Coalition for Deep Space Exploration, an industry trade group supporting human exploration, science, and commerce in deep space. Under her leadership the Coalition has grown from 5 companies to more than 60 over the past three years and is a well-regarded source of information, policy thought leadership, and education in support of NASA’s programs, the aerospace industry, and national leadership in space.
Before starting her own consulting firm in 2004, Dr. Dittmar coordinated R&D and later managed Flight Operations for The Boeing Company on the International Space Station Program. More recently she was Senior Policy Advisor to the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS), which manages the International Space Station National Laboratory. She has also served as a senior advisor to NASA, the DoD, and the FAA.
Mary Lynne is a Fellow of the National Research Society, an Associate Fellow of the American Institute for Astronautics and Aeronautics, and serves on the Board of Directors of the American Astronautical Society. From 2012-2014 she was a member of the National Research Council Committee on Human Spaceflight, and is currently in her second term as a member of the Executive Committee of the Space Studies Board of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine. In June of 2018 she was appointed by the NASA Administrator to the User’s Advisory Group of the National Space Council. She resides in Washington, D.C.
Dr. Mary Lynne Dittmar will talk about the business of space, why space exploration is valuable and how we can all benefit. The Coalition for Deep Space Exploration is an alliance of space industry businesses and advocacy groups collaborating to reinforce the value and benefits of deep space exploration with the public and our nation's leaders. The goal is to build lasting support for a long-term, sustainable, strategic direction for human space exploration and science, ensuring that the U.S. remains a leader in space, science and technology.
Due to the inclement weather, President Todd Nitkin has cancelled tonight's Rotary Club meeting. The next Dictionary Distribution is this Tuesday, November 20, at 10:30am at Seven Locks Elementary School. The next Rotary Club Meeting/Social will be held on Thursday, November 29, at 6:30pm Bretton Woods Recreation Center.
Bill Carey is the Director of Donor and Community Relations and is responsible for the day-to-day administration of the membership programs, special fundraising activities, and the community relations programs for Strathmore. Prior to joining Strathmore in 2002, Mr. Carey served as the Deputy Director of Public Affairs for the financial regulator, the Federal Housing Finance Board in Washington, D.C. Mr. Carey retired from government service in 2000. He is a resident of Kensington, MD and works for the National Hockey League as an off-ice official.
Our Guest Speaker at the Rotary Club Meeting on November 15 is Bill Carey, Director of Community Relations at the Music Center at Strathmore
Bob Bachman from Montgomery History gave a PowerPoint Presentation on How Montgomery County Grew Dramatically in the 1950's at the Rotary Club Meeting on November 8, 2018.
[Upper photo by Bob Nelson; lower photo by Koo Yuen.]
Bob Bachman from Montgomery History gave a PowerPoint Presentation on How Montgomery County Grew Dramatically in the 1950's at the Rotary Club Meeting on November 8, 2018.
Perspectives on the Public Interest features adapted Public Interest Podcast interviews with those who seek to improve the state of the world. These conversations are intended to ennoble public service, create a platform for positive civil discourse, and facilitate dialogue with difference.
The stories within these pages provide insight into the lives of men and women who seek to leave the world better than they found it. In this book explore the imaginative, iterative process of discovery that led to the identification of autoimmune disease. Delve into a behind-the-scenes look at how major news networks shape national discourse. Learn how one entrepreneur uses business to create social change. Glean wisdom from politicians of varying partisan persuasions. Gain insight into the corruption that riddles the United Nations, the effects of the Civil Rights Movement and the Vietnam War on the rise of the Nation of Islam, and how communist and totalitarian regimes collapsed amid tales of assassination and intrigue.
Jordan Cooper discusses his new book “Perspectives on the Public Interest” at the Rotary Club meeting on October 18, 2018.
In the Footsteps of Rome reflects Philip Tarnoff’s intimate knowledge of the workings of Federal and State governments as well as those of the private sector. During his half-century of employment, Mr. Tarnoff has observed a gradual decline in the effectiveness of the agencies with which he worked while watching the continued growth of their bureaucracies. His activities have included contact with many state and federal agencies, most recently focusing on the operation of the nation’s highway transportation system, a pursuit for which he has received many awards. As our government continues to pour vast sums of money into defense while its infrastructure crumbles, it becomes increasingly clear that the US is following the path of the Roman civilization whose investments in military superiority dwarfed expenditures on the Empire’s other critical needs, while doing little to deter its enemies. His first book, The Road Ahead, which discusses potential improvements in transportation operations has received universal acclaim. It is now followed by a work of fiction, In the footsteps of Rome, which exposes the weaknesses of a deteriorating society.
Author Philip Tarnoff discusses his latest book "In the Footsteps of Rome" at the Rotary Club meeting on October 11, 2018.
Jerry Garson is the Transportation Chairman, Montgomery County Civic Association, Inc., and has been involved with transportation issues for over 40 years. He has been a resident of Montgomery County for 28 years (Potomac) and prior to that in New York City. He has been a CPA for over 40 years.
Jerry Garson, Transportation Chair, MC Civic Association, gives a talk on "Traffic and Transportation" at the Rotary Club meeting on October 4, 2018.
President Todd Nitkin congratulated Lylie Fisher, Facilitator of Montgomery County’s Caregiver Support Program, who gave a Video Presentation on the Dementia Friendly Initiative on September 20, 2018. [Photo by Tom Lewis]
Lylie Fisher, Facilitator of Montgomery County’s Caregiver Support Program, Gave a Video Presentation on the Dementia Friendly Initiative on September 20, 2018
Lylie Fisher is the facilitator of Montgomery County Maryland’s Caregiver Support Program. In this role she improves coordination and collaboration amongst caregiver providers, designs culturally diverse communication strategies and identifies how best to increase the availability of resources for caregivers. Ms Fisher is: the lead for Montgomery County’s Dementia Friendly initiative, forging public-private partnerships that generate positive community and business strategies; and a Member of the Maryland Commission on Caregiving. Prior to joining the County Ms Fisher was the Director of Community Engagement with Iona Senior Services in Washington DC. Under her leadership Iona established the successful Take Charge/Age Well Academy.Originally from Australia Ms Fisher is a recipient of an Australia Council Fellowship for her contributions to national community cultural development. She became an International Research Fellow at San Francisco State University, and has lived in the United States since 1998. Ms Fisher has a BA in Visual Arts, Graduate Certificates in Communications and Social Sciences, and Advanced Graduate Certificate in Transformational Coaching. For over twenty years Ms Fisher has facilitated dynamic programs that support organizations, communities and individuals to powerfully embrace their full potential.
Lylie Fisher, Facilitator of Montgomery County’s Caregiver Support Program, Will Give a Video Presentation on the Dementia Friendly Initiative on September 20, 2018
As the Director of the Division of Construction for Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS), Mr. Seth Adams is responsible for managing operations related to design and construction of school facilities and the implementation of the MCPS Capital Improvements Program. This responsibility spans from the early planning stages to final close out of capital projects. Mr. Adams responsibilities involve matters related to the budget, finances, staffing, resources, project controls, and the development of the annual capital expenditure request and six-year Capital Improvements Program.
Mr. Adams is a licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Maryland and is a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Accredited Professional. He received both his Bachelor of Science and Master of Engineering degrees from the University of Maryland.
Seth Adams, Director of Construction, Montgomery County Public Schools, Will Present Their $1.7B Capital Improvements Program on September 13, 2018
Jerry Pasternak is Pepco Region Vice President, Maryland. In that capacity, he serves as Pepco’s primary liaison to political, business, community, non-profit and consumer leaders throughout the company’s Maryland service territory. From 1994 to 2006, Jerry served as Special Assistant to Montgomery County Executive Doug Duncan. As the senior political and policy advisor to the County Executive, Jerry contributed strategies for public policy decisions and provided oversight, guidance and direction to ensure successful implementation of policy objectives for more than 25 departments and agencies within the county. Among his more notable achievements, Jerry helped engineer the redevelopment of Silver Spring and the development of the Music Center at Strathmore, the Montgomery County Conference Center, and Rockville Town Center. Before joining Pepco, Jerry was Director of Government Affairs and Senior Counsel at a law firm in Bethesda, where he lobbied on behalf of clients at the state, county and municipal levels. Jerry graduated with a BA degree in Political Science from New York City’s Yeshiva University. He earned his Juris Doctorate from the University of Southern California School of Law and a Masters of Laws in Taxation from Georgetown University.
Jerry Pasternak, VP, Pepco Maryland Affairs, is our Guest Speaker at the Rotary Club Meeting on September 6, 2018
Laurie Menzel is a Major Gifts Officer for The Rotary Foundation, Zone 33. Laurie’s area of responsibility includes Northern Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Washington DC, Delaware, and part of Tennessee. Laurie works from her home office in Alexandria, Virginia and travels throughout the area to meet individually with donors. Laurie comes to Rotary after three years with Girl Scouts’ Nation’s Capital, the largest Girl Scout Council in the U.S., where she was a key member of their major gifts team. In addition to securing major gifts, she chaired their Planned Giving Outreach Committee, which worked closely with volunteers to identify and cultivate potential planned gifts from their peer members; created major donor recognition events; and trained their board members on fundraising. Prior to moving to the Washington DC area, she spent 13 years in Stuttgart, Germany through her husband’s career in the Air Force. Laurie earned a Master’s degree in Non-Profit Management from Regis University. She is a Rotarian (West Springfield, VA club) and remains active with local community service projects.
Guest Speaker Laurie Menzel Will Bring a Video Presentation of The Rotary Foundation to the Rotary Club Meeting on August 23, 2018
Ellen Bryan, CBS TV 9 Broadcast Journalist, spoke on “How to Get the Most Out of Life's Minutes” at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on August 16, 2018.
Ellen Bryan is a broadcast journalist and is a morning TV personality on WUSA 9 in Washington, D.C. As Miss Ohio 2011, she competed at Miss America before starting her journalism career. She produces an online series called "Minute Motivation" providing daily motivational videos online to encourage people to chase their dreams and let go of fear and anxiety. Her oldest sister was struck by lightning in 2000, paralyzing her for the past 18 years. She has shared her story across the country as a national spokesperson for NOAA.
Ellen Bryan, CBS TV 9 Broadcast Journalist, Will Speak on “How to Get the Most Out of Life's Minutes” at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on August 16, 2018.
Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club is now in its 33rd year of serving the community by supporting Manna Food Center. Come join our dedicated team on the second Tuesday of each month at 7pm at Manna Food Center in Gaithersburg. It's a great opportunity to introduce prospective members to a hands-on project and students receive community service credits.
Rotarians Packed 100 Boxes at Manna Food Center on August 14, 2018
"Believe in Belize" founder Nabil Bedewi and Caesar Kavadoy load used computers for schools in Belize. Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club is donating $1500 to the project.
Rotarians Donated Used Computer Equipment and $1500 to "Believe in Belize"
Ronnie T. Davis is the president and founder of Longstream Coaching and Training LLC. With the desire to help people reach their potential and vision, Ronnie has taken herself from educator to certified coach and trainer. With twenty years of motivating individuals to plan, achieve and succeed, Ronnie works with individuals, groups and businesses providing personalized coaching and training.
Ronnie holds a B.S. degree in Elementary Education and Masters Degree in Education, as well as a Certification in Administration from Towson University. She is a certified Personal Life Coach, Social + Emotional Intelligence Coach and Career/Business Coach, a DiSC specialist and has a certificate in Applied Positive Psychology.
Ronnie is a charter member and past president of the Southern Harford County Rotary, the area membership chair for Rotary District 7620/ District 1, and sits on the District's education committee. She is on the Board of Directors of Freedom Federal Credit Union, a board member of The Chesapeake Professional Women's Network and past chair for the Harford County Commission for Women. She is on the Governance Committee for the Arc Northern Chesapeake and the Chair of the Membership Committee for the Women's Giving Circle. Ronnie was nominated for the Athena award in 2012 and 2014. She is the past Area Director of the Professional Referral Exchange.
Rotary District Membership Chair Ronnie Teitler-Davis Will Speak About "Five New Members in Five Weeks" at the Rotary Club Meeting on August 9, 2018 - Bring Your "Rolodex!"
Rockville Robotic's Wizards.exe Team Won the INSPIRE Award at Detroit World Championship and is Representing the USA at FIRST Global Championship in Mexico City later this month. Above are four members of the team and their coach being congratulated on their presentation by Rotary Club President Todd Nitkin.
Wizards.exe, FIRST Tech Challenge Team 9794, is formed by eleven students; five boys and six girls aged thirteen to eighteen. We are a third-year FTC team based in Rockville, Maryland. Our mission is to Engage, Xpand, and Educate (EXE) our community. We work to inspire students to join FIRST and STEM and advocate to our local government officials through community events.
Wizards.exe Won the INSPIRE Award at the Detroit World Championship and was Invited to be Team USA at the 2018 FIRST Global Championship in Mexico City, Mexico, this month.
August 2, 2018, Rotary Club Meeting Features Four Students, Their Coach and Their Award-Winning Robot
Tom and Lucy Leuchtenburg were honored at the Rotary Club Meeting on July 19, 2018, for many years of service. They are relocating to Chapel Hill, North Carolina, where they plan to continue involvement with Rotary.
Tom and Lucy Leuchtenburg Honored at the Rotary Club Meeting on July 19, 2018, for Many Years of Service
Rotary District Governor Rich Glover made his official visit to the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club on July 19, 2018. President Todd Nitkin thanked him for his presentation.
Rotary District Governor Rich Glover made his official visit to the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club on July 19, 2018. President Todd Nitkin thanked him for his presentation.
Writer and historian Susan Soderberg gave a presentation on "Abraham Lincoln's Montgomery County Connections" at the Rotary Club meeting on July 12, 2018.
Rich is a member of Southern Frederick County Rotary, Frederick County, Maryland; One of 4 Clubs in Frederick County, comprising of approximately 22% of membership of 61 Clubs in District 7620.
Rich is a past President of two Clubs: the Johnson County Rotary Club of Overland Park, Kansas (2000) and Southern Frederick County Rotary Club in Frederick Maryland (2011). Combining Kansas and Frederick he is entering his 25th year as an active member of Rotary. Rich has been instrumental in expanding 6 Interact Clubs in Frederick County.
Rich has held most Club level Avenues of Service positions, including leadership in major fundraising. Rich was the founder of the Frederick Rotary Pro Am and within 3 years raising over $101,000 after expenses. One event of note, Rich was the team leadership member of fundraising with Johnson County Kansas Rotary Clubs with net funds to support an unprecedented $1,000,000 in pharmaceuticals and medical supplies that were airlifted through Heart to Heart International to Mother Teresa in Calcutta, India. Rich has also been a member of a Rotary International humanitarian mission to El Progresso, El Salvador to work with Action for Water & Education Foundation.
Rich is a Paul Harris Society member, a Paul Harris Fellow +5 Recipient, Rotary Foundation Benefactor, Paul Harris Society member, and Sustaining Paul Harris member.
This Week's Rotary Club Meeting: Welcome to District Governor Richard Glover and Farewell to Tom and Lucy Leuchtenburg
Katey Boerner, Executive Director, Glen Echo Park, spoke about one of the finest cultural resources in the Washington, DC area at the Rotary Club meeting on June 21, 2018. President Todd Nitkin presented the Rotary cup to Katey who is also President elect of the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rotary Club.
Katey Boerner, Executive Director, Glen Echo Park, spoke about one of the finest cultural resources in the Washington, DC area at the Rotary Club meeting on June 21, 2018.
Katey Boerner, Executive Director, Glen Echo Park, will speak about one of the finest cultural resources in the Washington, DC area at the Rotary Club meeting on June 21, 2018. Katey is also the President-Elect of the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rotary Club. Glen Echo Park is home to 13 resident artists and arts organizations, a thriving social dance program, a restored 1921 Dentzel Carousel, two award-winning children's theaters, a weekend drop-in art program for children, numerous art studios and galleries, a nature program, and hundreds of classes in visual and performing arts, including ceramics, painting, photography, glass, music, dance, and more. These activities, as well as free summer concerts, festivals, and special events bring thousands of visitors to the Park each year.
Katey Boerner, Executive Director, Glen Echo Park, will speak about one of the finest cultural resources in the Washington, DC area at the Rotary Club meeting on June 21, 2018.
President Todd Nitkin thanked Author Kim Protho Williams who gave a presentation on her new book, "Lost Farms and Estates of DC" at the Rotary Club Meeting on June 14, 2018. [Photo by Tom Lewis]
Author Kim Protho Williams Spoke on the Topic "Lost Farms and Estates of DC" at the Rotary Club Meeting on June 14, 2018.
Kim Prothro Williams is an architectural historian with the D.C. Historic Preservation Office. For more than twenty-five years, she has been researching and writing about historic buildings and communities in D.C., Virginia and Maryland, with her primary focus being to evaluate buildings for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. Kim is a published author of books, articles and heritage trail brochures dealing with the built environment. Two of her books, “Chevy Chase: A Home Suburb for the Nation’s Capital” and “Pride of Place: Rural Residences of Fauquier County, Virginia,” address the transformation of the agricultural landscape. Her most recent title is “Lost Farms and Estates of Washington, D.C.,” which explores the rural remnants of the nation’s capital.
"Lost Farms and Estates of DC" is the Topic of Author Kim Protho Williams at the Rotary Club Meeting on June 14, 2018.
Rotary International President Ian Riseley and Rotary District 7620 Governor Greg Wims congratulated Annapolis Rotary Club President Sue Weber for planting 60,000 trees in Uganda. RI President Ian spoke at the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rotary Club meeting on June 6, 2018.
Rotary International President Visited Bethesda on June 6, 2018
Scott Kerr is the R&P Compliance Manager at World Relief assisting with oversight of World Relief's refugee resettlement program, throughout the United States. Scott began serving refugees directly by securing employment and providing case management in World Relief's High Point Office in 2000. After 6 years, he was promoted and was transferred to the Baltimore corporate office. Scott began to travel throughout the US monitoring offices for compliance with the State Department’s program requirements. Scott’s responsibilities increased as he moved into management, overseeing two positions. More recently he has developed standardized training and visited offices for specific training interventions. Scott also guest lectures at Towson University in globalization classes speaking on refugee topics annually, and served as a co-facilitator of the recent Cultural Orientation Resource Exchange (CORE) workshop in Seattle. He is also looking forward to the International Summer School for Forced Migration at Oxford University this summer. Scott holds a B.A. in Organizational Leadership from Eastern University.
Scott Kerr from World Relief will discuss "Refugee Resettlement in America" at the Rotary Club Meeting on June 7, 2018.
President Todd Nitkin presents Dr. Marissa Leslie with the Rotary Cup for a great presentation and interactive discussion about "Mental Health in America" at the Rotary Club Meeting on May 31, 2018.
Marissa Cummings Leslie, MD has dual board certification in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and General Psychiatry. She is currently the Medical Director of both Inpatient and Outpatient Services for Adventist HealthCare Behavioral Health & Wellness Services in Rockville, Maryland. She completed her Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and University of Pennsylvania program in 2007. She completed her General Psychiatry residency at Loma Linda University in Southern California in 2005. She has previous research collaborative experience in anti-violence and anti-bullying studies at CHOP. She has also holds a certificate from the Harvard Program in Refugee Trauma. Her main academic interest is PTSD in immigrants and refugees.
Dr. Marissa Leslie's topic is "Mental Health in America" at the Rotary Club Meeting on May 31, 2018.
Tom Lewis (right) presented NY Times Bestselling Author Ronald Kessler and his wife Pam with the Rotary cup for his presentation on his latest book, "The Trump White House" at the Rotary Club meeting on May 3, 2018.
Ronald Kessler, the New York Times bestselling author of 21 non-fiction books, will be our special guest speaker at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club dinner meeting at Normandie Farm Restaurant on May 3, 2018, at 6:30pm. Guests are cordially invited. In 1968, Ronald Kessler joined the Wall Street Journal as an investigative reporter in the New York bureau. He became an investigative reporter with the Washington Post in 1970 and continued in that position until 1985. Kessler has won 18 journalism awards, including two George Polk awards—one for national reporting and one for community service. Kessler has also won the Robert Novak Journalist of the Year Award, the American Political Science Association's Public Affairs Reporting Award, the Associated Press' Sevellon Brown Memorial Award, and Washingtonian magazine's Washingtonian of the Year award. [Cost for the dinner is $26.]
NY Times Bestselling Author Ronald Kessler is the guest speaker at the Rotary Club meeting on May 3, 2018.
McLean Quinn, EYA Vice President of Land Acquisition and Development, spoke about the “Challenges of Growth and Development in Montgomery County” at the Rotary Club Meeting on April 19, 2018
Susan Rosenvold from Montgomery History portrayed Clara Barton at the Rotary Club Meeting on April 12, 2018. Tom Lewis thanked our speaker with a Rotary cup.
Susan Rosenvold from Montgomery History portrayed Clara Barton at the Rotary Club Meeting on April 12, 2018.
McLean Quinn will speak on the “Challenges of Growth and Development in Montgomery County.” He is Vice President of Land Acquisition and Development at EYA. McLean’s responsibilities include new deal sourcing and acquisitions, entitlement and predevelopment, and overall project stewardship. He has led underwriting and negotiations for numerous projects at EYA and is currently leading the entitlement effort on three large residential redevelopments in Montgomery County, including EYA's Shady Grove Station redevelopment. Before joining EYA, McLean evaluated opportunistic real estate investments for Morgan Stanley's Real Estate Fund (MSREF) in New York and worked in private equity and investment banking at Wells Fargo in Charlotte, North Carolina. He has a BA in political science from Davidson College and an MBA with Distinction from the Kellogg School of Management, where he was an Austin Scholar.
McLean Quinn, EYA Vice President of Land Acquisition and Development, will speak on the “Challenges of Growth and Development in Montgomery County” at the Rotary Club Meeting on April 19, 2018
President Todd Nitkin thanked former Rockville Mayor and current County Executive Candidate Rose Krasnow for her presentation.
President Todd Nitkin and Neil Cohen welcomed Maryland State Fire Marshal Brian Geraci and Captains Jimmy Seavy and Eric Bernard from the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department. [Photos by Tom Lewis]
"Clara Barton: No Ordinary Courage" is the topic for the Rotary Club meeting on April 12, 2018, at 6:30pm, the 106th anniversary of her death. Public Service hallmarked Clara Barton’s life from her initial career as a school teacher to her medical support and nursing during the Civil War, establishment of the American Red Cross and First Aid Association in 1905. A favorite civilian volunteer of Generals Ambrose Burnside, Benjamin Butler and Ulysses S. Grant, she received a rare compliment from President Abraham Lincoln via his published request to the public supporting her missing soldier’s identification work. This presentation explores the talents and events that guided Barton throughout her life and her legacy to the American people through the American Red Cross. This will be a brief first person portrayal by Susan Rosenvold from Montgomery History, as Clara Barton tells her own story.
"Clara Barton: No Ordinary Courage" is the topic for the meeting on April 12, 2018, the 106th anniversary of her death
The City of Rockville is creating a new 6.5 acre park in the Chestnut Lodge neighborhood and reached out to residents for suggestions on the name of the new park. Among the suggestions were several to name the park in honor of recently deceased Deputy State Fire Chief and Captain of the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department, Sander Cohen. The suggestions were reviewed byRockville Recreation and Parks Advisory Board and a recommendation was made by the Board to name the park, "Chestnut Lodge Park." The Board indicated that "a person must be deceased for at least one year prior to naming something in their honor." However in speaking to the Department of Parks and Recreation, it has been determined that the policy is a guideline only and that the Mayor and Council has final decision-making authority on the future park's name.
Please consider signing this petition to ask the Mayor and Council to override the Advisory Board's recommendation. Consider submitting written testimony to cityclerk@rockvillemd.gov or City Clerk's Office, City Hall, 111 Maryland Ave., Rockville, MD 20850. Attend the public hearing on the name at 7 PM, Monday, April 30, at City Hall, 111 Maryland Ave. The Mayor and Council are scheduled to take action on the recommendation at their May 7 meeting. Thank you. Arlene and Neil Cohen
Rose Krasnow served two terms on the Rockville City Council and three terms as Rockville Mayor. She was Director of the Montgomery County United Way, Chief of Development Review at the Maryland National Park & Planning Commission, and in 2013 became the Deputy Director. Rose managed the Zoning Code Rewrite team, overseeing an effort that led to the adoption of a new zoning code in October of 2014. She is currently a candidate for County Executive. Guests are invited for dinner ($26).
Rotarians from the RC of Kathmandu Mid-Town and Dr. Milan Maharjan, Chairperson of Ear Care Nepal (ECN), appear in the picture below. The big piece of equipment is an operating microscope that will be used in the performance of ear surgeries. To the right is a portable, battery operated audiometer, which is used to facilitate ear screening without access to electricity. This piece of equipment is needed to overcome problems posed by frequent power outages in Nepal; and an impedance meter, a very important diagnostic tool that ECN can now use to perform better diagnoses of ear problems prior to surgery. Global Grant 1637950 provided this equipment at a cost of approximately $19,000. The Grant is also paying for the screening of 5000 Nepalese children for hearing problems and ear surgery for 100 good candidates for ear surgery to prevent or reduce hearing loss.
The Rotary Club of Potomac-Bethesda is the international sponsor of this Global Grant. The Rotary Club of Kathmandu Mid-Town is the host Club. Additionally, financial contributions were provided by the Rotary Clubs of Bethesda-Chevy Chase, Metro Bethesda, and Pleasant Valley, New York, as well as various individual donors.
$19,000 in medical equipment delivered in Nepal for screening of 5000 children for hearing problems and 100 ear surgeries to prevent or reduce hearing loss.
President Todd Nitkin thanked Paul McDermott, Professor Emeritus, Montgomery College, who had great photographs and maps to go along with his talk, "Strolling on the C&O Canal" at the meeting on March 29, 2018.
Paul McDermott, Professor Emeritus, Montgomery College, had great photographs and maps to go along with his talk, "Strolling on the C&O Canal" at the meeting on March 29, 2018.
Paul D. McDermott is Professor Emeritus at Montgomery College. He is the author of seven books and the only community college visiting scholar at the Geography and Map Division of the Library of Congress. He will be coming with an illustrated presentation on the C&O Canal. He has prepared maps of the canal that will be available for purchase at the meeting. Now that spring is here and the blossoms will be coming out, his topic is so appropriate, "Strolling on the C&O Canal."
"Strolling on the C&O Canal" is the Springtime Topic of our Guest Speaker Professor Paul D. McDermott on March 29, 2018.
“Experiencing the Loss of a Loved One” was the Topic for Guest Speakers Catherine Stahl (Director of Communications and Education at Hospice Caring) and Jade Davis at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on March 15, 2018.
Hospice Caring is a community-based nonprofit that provides social, emotional, and practical support to individuals with a serious illness and their families, as well as those who are grieving a death. Join us to learn more about Hospice Caring’s services, and to hear Jade Davis share her personal experience with Hospice Caring.
After the death of her first husband, Jade found amazing support in Hospice Caring’s group for widows and widowers under the age of 50. “I knew that when I had my legs back under me, I just had to get involved with this wonderful organization and do what I could to support others,” said Jade. “This work matters, so very much.”
Jade has been volunteering with Hospice Caring since 2013 and has been an incredible addition to Hospice Caring’s Adult Bereavement and Volunteer Helping Hands (caregiving) programs. She has facilitated 5 adult bereavement groups and cared for 5 patients and families to date.
To learn more about Hospice Caring, please visit www.HospiceCaring.org or call 301-869-4673.
“Experiencing the Loss of a Loved One” is the Topic for Guest Speakers Catherine Stahl (Director of Communications and Education at Hospice Caring) and Jade Davis at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on March 15, 2018.
"The Universities at Shady Grove (USG) offers more than 80 undergraduate and graduate degree programs from nine Maryland public universities on one convenient campus in Montgomery County. USG helps prepare students for rewarding careers in the region’s most high-demand fields. Students who successfully complete their coursework on the USG campus graduate with a degree from one of its nine partner universities. Through on-campus services such as academic coaching, career advising, internship preparation, personal counseling, and leadership training, students leave the USG campus with the academic skills and real-world experiences needed for successful careers."
Tom Clifford and John Zuknick Make a Presentation on the "Universities at Shady Grove" at the Rotary Club Meeting on March 8, 2018.
Congratulations to Immediate Past President Bob Fuhrman who received a pin from Tom Lewis in recognition of his outstanding service to the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club.
Dare to Dream, How Rotary Became the Heart and Soul of Polio Eradication, is a high-quality, full-length documentary film that tells the story of how a small group of visionary Rotary leaders dared to set a breathtaking goal of eradicating polio for all of the children of the world. In doing so, they laid the groundwork for the single most successful public health coalition in history. This film gives Rotarians, and non-Rotarians, the back-story to the incredible decision to eradicate polio. Audiences will be astounded to learn that the Rotary Foundation was not involved in the early days of polio eradication, that the public health community was not interested in eradicating single diseases, and that several prominent Rotary leaders were vehemently opposed to Rotary getting involved with service projects on a global scale. Yet three successive RI Presidents along with a few other extraordinary Rotary leaders pursued a grand vision and eventually overcame all obstacles in setting Rotary on a course that, more than thirty years later, is set to achieve the most incredible public health victory the world has ever seen.
The Program on March 1, 2018, is an 18-minute excerpt from the new video produced by PDG Ken Solow along with many supporters including our Rotary Club
David Trone was the guest speaker at the meeting on February 15, 2018, who spoke on "Zero to 3 billion: the story of how he built his now multi-billion dollar business”
David Trone will speak at the dinner meeting of the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club on Thursday, Feb. 15, which starts at 6:30 p.m. and meets at Normandie Farm Restaurant (10710 Falls Road, Potomac, MD).
Mr. Trone is co-owner of Total Wine and More. He will speak about how he and his brother grew their business from zero to $2.7 billion in revenue. He is also a candidate for the Democratic nomination to represent Maryland’s 6th Congressional District.
David Trone is the guest speaker at the meeting on February 15, 2018, who will speak on "Zero to 3 billion: the story of how he built his now multi-billion dollar business”
Guest Speaker on February 1, 2018, was Richard Gilmore, President/CEO of the GIC Group who’s topic was "Harold Rosenthal Fellowship in International Relations"
Established in 1977 in the memory of Harold W. Rosenthal, the Rosenthal Fellowship was created to expose young scholars of foreign affairs to the inner workings of Congress, the U.S. Department of State and other agencies of the federal government. Each year, a select group of graduate students are chosen. Fellows are chosen for their outstanding scholarly achievements, for their character and for their commitment to the study of international affairs. The Rosenthal Fellows community helps the next generation of international affairs professionals have the opportunity to work in international affairs offices in the federal government.
Guest Speaker on February 1, 2018, is Richard Gilmore, President/CEO of the GIC Group who’s topic is "Harold Rosenthal Fellowship in International Relations"
Eleven Clubs Receive Foundation Banner Recognition
Rotary Foundation Trustee Chair Kaelyn Banerjee and John Germ Rotary International President are pleased to recognize the following clubs for their support of The Rotary Foundation 2016-2017:
The top three per capita giving clubs to The Rotary Foundation during the 2016-2017 Rotary year were Charlotte Hall, Capitol Hill, and Columbia-Patuxent. This designation requires a minimum $50 per capita level of giving.
Eight clubs were recognized as 100% Foundation Giving Clubs. These are clubs in which every dues-paying member contributes a minimum of $25.00 to any Rotary Foundation gift designation and the club per capita giving average contribution is a least $100. Clubs recognized were Aberdeen, Gaithersburg, Glen Burnie, Greenbelt, Metro Bethesda, Potomac-Bethesda, Prince Frederick, and Prince George’s County.
Five clubs were recognized as Every Rotarian, Every-Year Clubs. They were Glen Burnie, Gaithersburg, Metro Bethesda, Potomac-Bethesda, Prince Frederick. To be recognized, every dues-paying member must contribute a minimum of $25 to the Annual Fund with a per capita giving of at least $100.
Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club to Receive Two Rotary Foundation Recognition Banners
John Townsend, Manager of Public and Government Relations for AAA Mid-Atlantic, Addressed the Topic “Lucky Us - Why Having the Worst Traffic Hotspots in the Nation Impacts Us All” at the Rotary Club Meeting on January 18, 2018.
John Barrett Townsend II currently serves as the Manager of Public and Government Relations for AAA Mid-Atlantic in its Washington office. His professional background encompasses varied careers in broadcast journalism, local government, the high tech industry, and Capitol Hill. Prior to joining AAA Mid-Atlantic he served as a Communications Director and Legislative Assistant for U.S. Representative Scotty Baesler for the Sixth District of Kentucky. For nearly a decade he was the Press Secretary for the Mayor of Lexington. All told, he has served three members of Congress as a speech writer or Communications Director. He is also a veteran of political campaigns on the local, statewide, and national levels. He left the Hill to serve as an appointee to the U.S. Department of Energy. He was a public affairs officer and a special occasion speech writer for Energy Secretary Bill Richardson. He went on to serve as the Director of Legislative and Regulatory Affairs for Avaya Inc., one of America’s leading telecommunications providers. He is a former broadcast journalist, reporting the news at radio stations and television stations in Huntsville, Alabama (WEUP Radio – co-host of “Inner City News, Views and Interviews,” WAAY Radio – host “Rapping with WAAY” and “Dialogue” and WAAY-TV – Host “Dialogue with John Barrett Townsend”), Baton Rouge, Louisiana (WBRZ-TV- general assignment reporter ) and Lexington, Kentucky (WLEX TV – broadcast journalist, news producer and news assignment editor, WKYT TV – host of “Directions with John Townsend”). John Townsend holds a BA in English and Political Science from Alabama A&M University, a master’s in International Relations from the Patterson School of Diplomacy and International Commerce at the University of Kentucky and another master’s, this one in writing, from Johns Hopkins University.
John Townsend, Manager of Public and Government Relations for AAA Mid-Atlantic, Will Address the Topic “Lucky Us - Why Having the Worst Traffic Hotspots in the Nation Impacts Us All” at the Rotary Club Meeting on January 18, 2018.
Tom and Barbara Allen gave a mini-forum on "Opioid Awareness" at the Rotary Club meeting on January 11, 2018. Their nonprofit James’ Place Inc. provides education, advocacy and scholarships for recovery housing.
[L-R] Tom and Barbara Allen with Rotary District Governor Greg Wims
Tom and Barbara Allen gave a mini-forum on "Opioid Awareness" at the Rotary Club meeting on January 11, 2018. Their nonprofit James’ Place Inc. provides education, advocacy and scholarships for recovery housing.
Tom & Barbara Allen are passionate advocates for all things substance related. Their Maryland based nonprofit James’ Place Inc.provides education, advocacy and scholarships for recovery housing.
Tom is a past president of the Rotary Club of Columbia-Patuxent and a retire fire protection engineer. Barbara’s career includes many years in executive positions in the computer industry, executive coaching and yoga teacher.
Barbara’s beloved son, Jim, died in March, 2003. He struggled with substance use disorder for almost 22 years losing the battle to an overdose of heroin and alcohol. Additionally, Barbara’s brother, Bill, and niece, Amanda, also lost their lives as a result of this disease. The ups and downs of these three important people led to the work Barbara & Tom do today. Establishing James’ Place, Inc. and its educational arm Shatter the Stigma® are important means to share knowledge and help other families know they are not alone. Barbara serves on various local, state and national coalitions and is co-chair of Maryland’s Behavioral Health Advisory Council. Barbara & Tom are active members of The Compassionate Friends (TCF) since 2003. TCF supports parents, grandparents and siblings who have lost a loved one to any cause, at any age. Barbara served on the national TCF Board of Directors, Barbara is Chapter leader and Tom is treasurer for the Patapsco Valley Chapter in Ellicott City, Maryland
Tom and Barbara Allen will give a mini-forum on "Opioid Awareness" at the Rotary Club meeting on January 11, 2018
Lee Barnes, CEO, Barwood Taxi Service, spoke about "The Changing Landscape of Transportation" at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club meeting on January 4, 2018.
Barwood serves over 5,000 customers per day. Many of Montgomery County’s government leaders and citizens have expressed appreciation for such efficient and dependable transportation services. Montgomery County, the State of Maryland, and the International Taxi and Livery Association have bestowed Barwood with various awards and honors. With a national reputation as an industry leader, Barwood is highly innovative among ground transportation companies. Every phase of the business is computerized. In 1989 Barwood became one of only 15 companies in the United States to go online with a fully computerized dispatch system that included terminals in the taxis. This technology greatly reduced dispatch time and enhances customer service. Since 2002 Barwood has employed GPS technology, which has many benefits for passengers, drivers, and the vehicles.
January is Rotary's Vocational Service Month
Lee Barnes, CEO, Barwood Taxi Service, will speak about "The Changing Landscape of Transportation" at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club meeting on January 4, 2018
Rotarians, family members and guests gathered for the annual Holiday Party held at Bretton Woods Recreation Center on December 21, 2017. There is no meeting scheduled for December 28, 2017. Happy New Year!
The Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club wishes you all the best for 2018!
John McCarthy, States Attorney, Montgomery County, spoke about Opioid Addiction at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on December 14, 2017. Pictured [L-R] are John McCarthy, P-B President Todd Nitkin and Rotary District Governor Greg Wims.
It's the busy holiday season, but Alex Naron along with Rotarians Steve Naron and Bob Nelson, and other volunteers packed 144 food boxes at the Manna Food Center on December 12, 2017. Why not make a New Year's resolution to join them in 2018 on the second Tuesday of each month at 7pm?
The State's Attorney's Office is a constitutionally created independent agency. Their mission is to serve the public interest through fair and honest administration of justice by exercising responsibilities to: prosecute criminal violations in Montgomery county; educate the public to criminal justice issues; provide training to lawyers for future service; address inequality and promote fairness in the criminal justice system; insure access to the criminal justice system; promote professional relations with judges and attorneys; and further the efficient use of criminal justice resources. John attended Catholic University of America on a baseball scholarship between 1970 and 1974. Following his graduation from Catholic University, John taught at Good Counsel High School in Wheaton, Maryland and, while teaching, John attended law school in the evenings at the University of Baltimore. John graduated in 1979. John was admitted to the Maryland Bar in 1979 and began his legal career in private practice. John joined the State's Attorney's Office for Prince George's County in 1980 and eighteen months later became a Public Defender in Montgomery County. John joined the State's Attorney's Office for Montgomery County in 1982. Before ascending to the position of State's Attorney in 2006, John served as Deputy State's Attorney in Montgomery County for ten years. Prior to that, John had headed every major trial division in the office.
John McCarthy, States Attorney, Montgomery County, will be speaking about Opioid Addiction at the Rotary Club Meeting on December 14, 2017
Sander Benjamin Cohen, born August 26, 1984 in Washington , DC., died at the age of 33 on December 8, 2017. He heroically passed serving in the Line of Duty for the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office. Sander is survived by his loving parents Dr. Neil and Arlene Soodak Cohen, his beloved dog Mia, and grandmother Rose Soodak; he is preceded by his late grandparents Robert Soodak and Minnie and Samuel Cohen. He also leaves behind six aunts and uncles (Teresa and Joel Soodak; Howard and Carol Cohen; Sondra and David Cohen), as well as four cousins (Jessica and Ethan Soodak; Rebecca and Samuel Cohen). Sander Cohen was a nine year veteran of the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office, where he held the rank of Deputy Chief. He served as the Regional Commander of the Northeast Regional Office. Throughout his career, Sander received numerous awards including a Unit Citation from Prince George’s County Fire & EMS Department for his involvement in a multi-agency investigation. In addition to his public service as a State Fire Marshal, Sander was a 14 year veteran of the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department, where he held the rank of Lieutenant. Sander was a dedicated and active member holding many positions including Shift Officer and Director. He was awarded a Citation of Bravery for his life saving actions at an apartment fire on December 22, 2003. A memorial service will be held on December 14, 2017 at B’nai Israel, 6301 Montrose Rd Rockville, MD 20852 at 11 Am. A private internment will follow. Shiva will be observed and open to the public on Thursday, December 14th from 6pm to 10pm at Woodmont Country Club located at 1201 Rockville Pike, Rockville, Maryland. Close friends and immediate family will continue Shiva on Saturday, December 16th at the Cohen residence.
In Memoriam: Sander Cohen, Son of Dr. Neil and Arlene Cohen
Susan Glover, Senior Vice President, Adventist HealthCare spoke on "Patient Safety and the Role of the Patient Advocate" at the Rotary Club Meeting on December 7, 2017.
Susan Glover, Senior Vice President, Adventist HealthCare spoke on "Patient Safety and the Role of the Patient Advocate" at the Rotary Club Meeting on December 7, 2017.
Susan Glover currently serves as VP & Chief Quality Officer for Adventist HealthCare. In this role she provides overall direction for quality and performance improvement in Adventist HealthCare as well as facilitate the design and implementation of tolls and processes to enhance the quality of health care delivery. Susan is also responsible for the development of services in the Education Institute and in the Prevention and Wellness departments of Adventist HealthCare. Adventist HealthCare is a non-profit, network on health care services that includes hospitals, home health agencies, nursing centers and other health care services. Based in Rockville, Adventist employs more than 7,000 people and cares for over 200,000 patients each year among its various entities and services.
Susan Glover, Senior Vice President, Adventist HealthCare will Speak on "Patient Safety and the Role of the Patient Advocate" at the Rotary Club Meeting on December 7, 2017.
Guest speaker Diana Negroponte reported on the status of International Trade Negotiations and addressed the question “What are the chances that the US will withdraw from NAFTA?” on November 16, 2017.
Guest speaker Diana Negroponte will report on the status of International Trade Negotiations and address the question “What are the chances that the US will withdraw from NAFTA?” on November 16, 2017.
Beloved wife of Nihad Kaibni and the late Michael S. Cunnane; loving mother of Katya Cunnane Pilong (Kevin) and Danielle Cunnane Garcia (Danilo); grandmother of Mikaela Pilong and Antonio Garcia; Daughter of Yolanda Blacutt and the late Jose Carrasco; sister of Carlos, Maria Julia and John Carrasco. Friends will be received at PUMPHREY'S COLONIAL FUNERAL HOME, 300 W. Montgomery Ave. (Rt. 28 just off I-270), Rockville, MD on Tuesday, November 14, 2017 from 7 to 9 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at St. Raphael's Catholic Church, Falls and Dunster Roads, Potomac, MD on Wednesday, November 15, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Montgomery Hospice. Please view and sign the family online guestbook at: www.pumphreyfuneralhome.com
In Memoriam: Yolanda Cunnane, wife of Nihad Kaibni
Jordan P. Cooper has extensive on-the-ground legislative experience in Annapolis. Jordan first worked in the Maryland General Assembly in 2003 as a Student Page. More recently, he worked for two years as a Legislative Aide for Delegate Keith E. Haynes in the House of Delegates. During this time, Jordan gained professional experience solving problems and providing answers to constituents in need of assistance. Jordan pursued his MSPH in Health Policy with the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. As a health care policy advisor at the National Partnership for Women and Families, he wrote comments pertaining to the implementation of the Affordable Care Act on the use of quality measurement to improve value in health care.
November 9, 2017 Guest Speaker is Jordan Cooper, Candidate for State Delegate in District 16
Guest Speaker on November 2, 2017, was Dr. Michael Schoenbaum, NIH Epidemiologist, who discussed the Identification and Treatment of Suicide Risk in the Military.
Guest Speaker on November 2, 2017, was Dr. Michael Schoenbaum, NIH Epidemiologist, who discussed the Identification and Treatment of Suicide Risk in the Military.
Michael Schoenbaum (PhD in Economics, University of Michigan, 1995) is Senior Advisor for Mental Health Services, Epidemiology, and Economics in the National Institute of Mental Health's Division of Services and Intervention Research. He conducts analyses of mental health burden, service use and costs, intervention opportunities, and other policy-related issues, in support of Institute decision-making; and he works to strengthen NIMH's relationships with public and private stakeholders, to increase the public health impact of NIMH-supported research. Dr. Schoenbaum's research has focused particularly on the costs and benefits of interventions to improve health and health care, evaluated from the perspectives of patients, providers, payers and society.
Guest Speaker on November 2, 2017, is Dr. Michael Schoenbaum, NIH Epidemiologist, who will address the Identification and Treatment of Suicide Risk in the Military
Clyde Prestowitz is founder and President of the Economic Strategy Institute. His leadership has propelled ESI into an important role in the public policy process, influencing and often defining the terms of the debate in the areas of international trade policy, economic competitiveness, and the effects of globalization. Mr. Prestowitz has played key roles in achieving congressional passage of NAFTA and in shaping the final content of the Uruguay Round, as well as providing the intellectual basis for current U.S. trade policies toward Japan, China, and Korea. The Economic Strategy Institute (ESI) is a private, non-profit, non-partisan public policy research organization dedicated to assuring that globalization works with market forces to achieve maximum benefits rather than distorting markets, and imposing costs. This should be achieved on the basis of principles, policies, and institutions consistent with democratic values. Because security and national welfare will increasingly depend on performance in the global marketplace, the Economic Strategy Institute is particularly concerned with developing national and corporate strategies to assure that globalization takes place on a level playing field and the reality is mutually beneficial.
“International Trade Policy, Economic Competitiveness, and the Effects of Globalization” is the topic for the Rotary Club Meeting on October 19, 2017, by Guest Speaker Clyde Prestowitz who is the founder and President of the Economic Strategy Institute.
“Climate Change” was the topic at the October 12, 2017, Rotary Club Meeting with Guest Speaker Bilal Haq who was formerly Director for Marine Geoscience Programs at National Science Foundation.[Photo by Tom Lewis.]
“Climate Change” was the topic at the October 12, 2017, Rotary Club Meeting with Guest Speaker Bilal Haq who was formerly Director for Marine Geoscience Programs at National Science Foundation.
It is with great sadness that we report the passing on October 4, 2017, of our beloved Rotarian of 35 years and Past President Arthur H. Blitz. Art was a leader in the club organizing annual fix-up projects at the Jewish Foundation for Group Homes. He always brought a funny story and occasionally entertained fellow Rotarians with his magic tricks. He will be sadly missed. We express our condolences to his family, wife Mimi, and children Leslie, Robin and Mickey. His funeral is scheduled for Monday, October 9, 2017, at 10:30am at Congregation Beth El, 8125 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, with interment to follow at Judean Memorial Gardens, Olney, MD.
Family will be receiving friends through Friday evening, October 13th and holding Shiva Minyan at 7pm on Monday, October 9th and Tuesday, October 10th. Memorial contributions may be made to CHI, Inc., 10501 New Hampshire Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20903 or to the Montgomery County Humane Society, 601 S. Stone Street Ave, Rockville, MD 20850.
Clyde Prestowitz is founder and President of the Economic Strategy Institute. His leadership has propelled ESI into an important role in the public policy process, influencing and often defining the terms of the debate in the areas of international trade policy, economic competitiveness, and the effects of globalization. Mr. Prestowitz has played key roles in achieving congressional passage of NAFTA and in shaping the final content of the Uruguay Round, as well as providing the intellectual basis for current U.S. trade policies toward Japan, China, and Korea.
The Economic Strategy Institute (ESI) is a private, non-profit, non-partisan public policy research organization dedicated to assuring that globalization works with market forces to achieve maximum benefits rather than distorting markets, and imposing costs. This should be achieved on the basis of principles, policies, and institutions consistent with democratic values. Because security and national welfare will increasingly depend on performance in the global marketplace, the Economic Strategy Institute is particularly concerned with developing national and corporate strategies to assure that globalization takes place on a level playing field and the reality is mutually beneficial.
The Institute is a firm believer in markets, but it knows that all markets operate within boundaries of different rules and institutions. ESI studies and understands the importance of macroeconomic factors such as interest rates, exchange rates, and savings rates. But, unlike many economic policy organizations, ESI places particular emphasis on institutional and structural factors and on the circumstances of the particular industries that make up the overall economy. It is, after all, impossible to have a smoothly running machine if the key components are faulty. Accordingly, ESI analyzes major industries and technologies as well as domestic and international economic industrial policies.
The growing importance of globalization and ESI's practical, business-like approach to the issues have made the institute a major player in government circles since its founding in 1989. ESI's staff shape opinion and strategy by publishing books, articles and editorials as well as by providing testimony to Congress and private consultation to government and business leaders. The institute also conducts a number of influential conferences and lectures throughout the year.
Over the past decade, ESI has had a major influence on the conclusion of the NAFTA and Uruguay Round negotiations, U.S. economic and trade policy towards Japan, China and Europe, and telecommunications, international aviation, and other important economic and trade issues. ESI has also helped shape strategy for a number of multinational corporations.
As we move into the next century, the world’s marketplace will become even more complex to corporations, governments, and consumers. The Economic Strategy Institute is well suited to tackle these complexities and provide expert analyses and leadership on the important elements of the globalized economy.
“International Trade Policy, Economic Competitiveness, and the Effects of Globalization” is the October 19, 2017, topic of Guest Speaker Clyde Prestowitz, President of the Economic Strategy Institute
Naheed Oberfeld is a Success Strategist who works with passionate and driven business owners and professionals who are respected experts in their field. She helps them achieve greater financial success by showing them how to effortlessly attract their ideal clients, overcome debilitating boom and bust cycles, confidently charge the true value of their products and services, and shed patterns of procrastination and stress.
With 15 years of experience in the corporate world, including fortune 100 companies, Naheed left the Finance industry to embark upon her passion; empowering others to create financially rewarding businesses without stress and struggle. She works with clients from all over the world helping them to overcome their personal and professional blocks to achieve a happier and more abundant life.
Naheed’s Business Transformation programs guide you to create an empowering inner “Money Story” so you can release behavior and mindset patterns that limit your earning potential. Her coaching style, programs, and techniques are designed to easily break through resistance which allows your natural creativity and passion to propel you into greater success, ease, and joy.
Guest speaker on October 5, 2017, is Naheed Oberfeld, a Success Strategist, who works with business owners and professionals to help achieve greater financial success.
Bilal Haq, a scientist and a poet, was formerly at the US National Science Foundation as the director for marine geoscience programs. He is currently a research associate at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington DC and an associated research professor at Sorbonne University’s UPMC in Paris. As a marine geoscientist he has been honored by several professional awards in and marine sciences in the US and Europe. He was elected a member of European Academy of Sciences, and was honored by Sorbonne with doctoris honoris causa degree for his works on sea-level changes of the Phanerozoic and the impact of the on-going sea-level rise on maritime nations. Haq has broad experience in the academia, the industry and the government, and has also held assignments with the White House and the World Bank in Washington DC. He has taught or undertaken research as a visiting professor at many universities around the world, including MIT, Oxford, Cambridge, Copenhagen, Paris, and at Tongji University in China. His research career also includes a twelve-years tenure at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and six years with Exxon Production Research Company.
In geosciences Haq’s publications are amongst some of the most cited. The influence of this work can also be gauged by the inclusion of one of his paper (Haq et al., 1987) published in Science Magazine that is listed among the 100 most influential publications in Geosciences of all times, a list that includes such luminaries as Lyell, Darwin, Hutton and Milankovitch. He has also been honored by his peers by the naming of a marine plankton species and a fossil genus after him.
As a poet Bilal Haq has published four volumes of verse since 2015. Because he has spent most of his career trying to find hidden patterns in Nature, our planet’s past conditions, its ancient oceans and climates, his research took him to some of the most pristine places on Earth that reveal what our World could be like if we had the foresight and will to rehabilitate it. His poetic message is a simple one that we have to relearn to live in peace with Nature if we are to endure. He divides his time between Paris, France, and Washington, DC.
“Climate Change” is the topic at the October 12, 2017, Rotary Club Meeting with Guest Speaker Bilal Haq who was formerly Director for Marine Geoscience Programs at National Science Foundation.
The 2017 Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Dictionary Project kicks off on October 3 at Seven Locks Elementary School with Poolesville Elementary School scheduled for October 12. There are more schools to be added to the schedule and you may sign up to assist under "Events." For more information contact Alan Grant at 301-258-1033 or agrant@grantlaw.net.
Dictionary Distribution at Seven Locks Elementary School on October 3 at 1:35pm
Rosh Hashanah is the Jewish New Year, when Jews prayerfully reflect on the past year and look hopefully into a promising future. The central observance of this two-day holiday beginning on September 20 is the sounding of the shofar, the ram's horn, signifying the coronation of the king, and calling people into a time of apologizing and healing relationships.
Greetings for the first night are “Leshanah tovah tikatev vetichatem” and for females, “Leshanah tovah tikatevee vetichatemee” meaning “May you be inscribed and sealed for a good year.” At other times, with them a “Gemar chatimah tovah” meaning “A good inscription and sealing in the Book of Life."
-Rev. Mansfield “Kasey” Kaseman
No Meeting on September 21, 2017 - Rosh Hashanah Holiday
President Todd Nitkin thanked motivational speaker Roderick Mitchell for giving an inspiring presentation on the “Application of Firefighting Concepts to Everyday Life” at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on September 14, 2017. [Photo by Tom Lewis.]
President Todd Nitkin thanked motivational speaker Roderick Mitchell for giving an inspiring presentation on the “Application of Firefighting Concepts to Everyday Life” at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on September 14, 2017.
Roderick’s personal journey of facing–and overcoming–seemingly insurmountable obstacles is the foundation of his deeply personal and energizing presentations. He engages every member of the audience through his message of hope and endurance. Along with over 1,500 candidates, Roderick applied for a District of Columbia firefighter position in 1989. Passing both the written and physical agility exams, Roderick finished in the top 1% of all candidates. Roderick is a member of the National Speakers Association and a seasoned member of the Toastmasters International. Numerous audiences, from non-profits to social organizations and local schools, have enjoyed Roderick’s engaging, entertaining, and motivating messages of empowerment. Many small and large corporations throughout the region have experienced Roderick’s skill and professionalism as a presenter and trainer.
Motivational Speaker Roderick Mitchell Gives an Inspiring Presentation on the Application of Firefighting Concepts to Everyday Life at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on September 14, 2017
Greg Wims is a 6th generation Marylander with 49 years of volunteer service to the community. He has served on many nonprofit boards, University of Maryland Dental School, Universities at Shady Grove, Montgomery College, YMCA, Kennedy Center and Boys and Girls Club just to name a few. He presently serves on the Congressional Bank Board in the Metro Washington DC area. He founded the Victims’ Rights Foundation 21 years ago to help victims of violent crime. They just opened a preschool in Kenya 6 months ago. Greg is a Paul Harris fellow and a Paul Harris Society member. He is a member of the Bethesda Chevy Chase Rotary Club. He is married to Michelle and has three children and two grandkids. Please welcome Greg Wims, District Governor.
Welcome Rotary District Governor Greg Wims to the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on September 7, 2017.
[From Governor Greg Wims who will be our guest speaker on September 7, 2017]
As you know, Hurricane Harvey has hit Texas and Louisiana very hard. The Rotary District in coordination with the Disaster Aid USA is starting a fund drive. Please see the Press Release. Individually and as a club, I urge you to donate generously. Rotary's theme this year is Make A Difference. Its time to make a difference.
Your donations will provide the funds for the volunteers to handle disaster related relief from Hurricane Harvey and direct assistance to the victims of the flood.
Donations are needed urgently, and checks (payable to DAUSA) can be mailed to: Disaster Aid USA, 9817 Lanham Severn Road, Lanham, MD 20706. Online donations can be made by visiting the website - www.disasteraidusa.organd clicking-on the PayPal button. DAUSA is a tax-exempt 501-c-3 type organization, and all donations are tax-free. Questions may be directed to:
On August 24, 2017, Guest Speakers Pete Tomao and Amy Ginsburg addressed “Walkable, Bikeable, Sustainable and Transit-friendly Communities.” Pete Tomao is the Montgomery County Advocacy Manager for Coalition for Smarter Growth and Amy Ginsburg is the Executive Director of Friends of White Flint. [Photo by Tom Lewis]
On August 24, 2017, Guest Speakers Pete Tomao and Amy Ginsburg addressed “Walkable, Bikeable, Sustainable and Transit-friendly Communities.”
The Coalition for Smarter Growth is the leading organization in the Washington DC region dedicated to making the case for smart growth. Our mission is to promote walkable, inclusive, and transit-oriented communities, and the land use and transportation policies and investments needed to make those communities flourish.
Friends of White Flint advocates for the walkable, bikeable, sustainable, transit-friendly community we need. We educate the community about how smart growth design provides the lifestyles we want. We make sure that everyone in our community is up-to-date about the latest Pike District news. Building consensus and working together, residents, property owners, community groups, government officials, businesses, and homeowner associations can ensure the Pike District fulfills the promises of the White Flint Sector Plan.
Pike District Pedestrians is a grassroots collection of people who want to improve safety for pedestrians in the Pike District. We're supported by the staff of the Coalition for Smarter Growth and the team at Friends of White Flint.
As the Montgomery County Advocacy Manager for Coalition for Smarter Growth, Pete Tomao is excited to help bring better transit options to Maryland. A long-term resident of our region, Pete understands how important public transportation is to our economic future, particularly in Montgomery County.
Pete comes to the Coalition for Smarter Growth from the National Association of Letter Carriers, where he was a political and grassroots organizer. Prior to working for the NALC, he was an organizer on the Obama campaign in Las Vegas. He holds a BA in Political Science from American University, which is where he developed his love for the Washington region.
Amy Ginsburg is the Executive Director of Friends of White Flint. Amy, who has lived within two miles of White Flint for most of her life, possesses three decades of pragmatic experience in advocacy, nonprofit management, marketing, and fundraising. She previously served as the Executive Director of Neediest Kids, Executive Director of Manna Food Center, and Executive Director of the Low Vision Information Center. Amy has also been the Director of Development and Director of Marketing for a wide variety of nonprofit organizations. Amy is part of the Leadership Montgomery Class of 2010 and was formerly the President of her HOA. She graduated with a B.A. in Public Relations and Psychology from Syracuse University and an M.A. in Nonprofit Management from the University of Maryland University College.
On August 24, 2017, Guest Speakers Pete Tomao and Amy Ginsburg will address “Walkable, Bikeable, Sustainable and Transit-friendly Communities.”
President Todd Nitkin thanked guest speaker Robert Drozd who addressed Maryland Legislative Issues and National Security at the Rotary Club meeting on August 17, 2017.
President Todd Nitkin thanked guest speaker Robert Drozd who addressed Maryland Legislative Issues and National Security at the Rotary Club meeting on August 17, 2017.
Author Judy Welles gave a presentation on Lilly Stone, a daring woman who changed the landscape of business and culture in Montgomery County, at the Rotary Club meeting on August 10, 2017. Lilly Stone was the grandmother of the late Potomac-Bethesda Rotarian John Stone.
Author Judy Welles gave a presentation on Lilly Stone, a daring woman who changed the landscape of business and culture in Montgomery County, at the Rotary Club meeting on August 10, 2017.
Guest speaker Robert Drozd will address Maryland Legislative Issues and National Security at the Rotary Club meeting on August 17, 2017. Robert Drozd is a husband of 20-plus years, first-generation American, father of two teenage daughters, and a recently-retired Air Force officer. He works as a national security professional under contract to the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Robert was born to an English mother, and Robert's father was a WWII refugee from Poland. Robert was born outside Richmond, Virginia, and grew up in the suburbs of Dayton, Ohio, and chose to make Maryland his home after serving in eight different states and three foreign countries. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from Wright State University and Master’s Degrees in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and Military Operational Art and Science from the Air Force’s Air University. Robert is a candidate for Maryland State Senate in District 14 that spans from Burtonsville to Damascus.
Guest speaker Robert Drozd will address Maryland Legislative Issues and National Security at the Rotary Club meeting on August 17, 2017.
Judith Welles is a writer and former journalist who has authored local history books about the area in which she lives including Cabin John: Legends and Life of an Uncommon Place and Lilly Stone. She also wrote a worklife e-book for Kindle, Get a Life, Try This! Judy was media relations manager for PricewaterhouseCoopers and IBM and a speechwriter for U.S. Cabinet members. She has chaired the Montgomery County Commission on Aging, been a Board member of the C&O Canal Trust, and is a speaker on local history for the Montgomery County Historical Society.
Topic: Lilly Stone (Grandmother of the late P-B Rotarian John Stone) Historic photos and a book tell the story of a daring woman who changed the landscape of business and culture in Montgomery County. Lilly Stone was born during the Civil War and she died during the Cold War. At the age of 63, in 1924, Lilly Stone began operating a quarry in Bethesda, Stoneyhurst, that provided stone for part of the National Cathedral, National Zoo and hundreds of area buildings and homes. She ran a business generally considered "men's work" at a stage of life when many people retire. Even later, at the age of 80, she inspired the Montgomery County flag and founded the Montgomery County Historical Society. Letters from her son detail World War I and, remarkably, World War II brings German POWs to work in Bethesda at her quarry. Books will be available for sale and signed by the author.
Celebrating the 37th Anniversary of the chartering of the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club
Author Judy Welles will give a presentation on Lilly Stone, a daring woman who changed the landscape of business and culture in Montgomery County, at the Rotary Club meeting on August 10, 2017.
President Todd Nitkin thanks Michelle Chapin for her talk, “DIY Pitfalls of Estate Planning,” at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club meeting on August 3, 2017. [Photo by Tom Lewis]
President Todd Nitkin thanks Michelle Chapin for her talk, “DIY Pitfalls of Estate Planning,” at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club meeting on August 3, 2017
Michelle Chapin, a member of Paley Rothman’s Estate Planning, Estate & Trust Administration, Tax and Corporate practice groups, advises individuals, families and small business owners regarding their estate and gift planning needs. Her approach is thorough, and Michelle excels at providing clients with easy to understand explanations of intricate legal and tax matters. She works closely with her clients to create comprehensive and customized estate and business succession plans to achieve their tax and non-tax wealth preservation objectives. She also helps clients implement lifetime gifting and post-mortem wealth transfer strategies and counsels fiduciaries on estate and trust administration matters. Michelle focuses a part of her practice on estate planning for clients with international issues, including estate, gift and other tax concerns of non-U.S. citizens, U.S. citizens with non-U.S. citizen spouses, and U.S. citizens owning property abroad. When she’s not being interviewed by the Wall Street Journal or speaking to various groups in the DC metropolitan area, Michelle enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband and 2 children. [Thanks to Art Blitz for arranging this week’s speaker.]
Michelle Chapin will present the "DIY Pitfalls of Estate Planning" at the Rotary Club meeting on August 3, 2017
President Todd Nitkin presented the Rotary Cookbook to Author, Inspirational Speaker and Ultra-athlete Croix Sather at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on July 20, 2017.
2016-2017 President Bob Fuhrman pinned Incoming President Dr. Todd Nitkin with the Rotary President's pin at the club meeting at Bretton Woods on July 13, 2017.
Croix Sather is an American author, inspirational speaker, and ultra-athlete. His self-help and personal development books cover the topics of personal transformation, self-help, psychology of success, and high achievement.
"From the moment Croix steps on the stage he will captivate your audience. He starts strong and keeps your audience on the edge of their seats with his stories of his Run Across America and his World Record "Badwater Solo" Run through Death Valley when he crushed the previous record by almost 5 hours."
"What Croix has done is certainly impressive, but more impressive is how he has master the art of story telling to connect with your audience and inspire them in a way that creates lasting change. There is story telling and there is story telling that creates change because it reprograms your mind for success."
"You can have a great keynote speaker presentation, or you can have a great keynote speaker presentation that will inspire your team and one that will increase their performance, productivity endurance, and discipline. Croix weaves in mindset and performance strategies that improve your teams performance organically into the stories and presentation."
"At the end, the line is out the door because everyone wants to get a book signed by Croix after hearing his inspirational keynote presentation."
We have Manna Food Center box packing the second Tuesday of each month at 7pm. Please let Alex Naron know if you can join. Family and friends are welcome. Student Service Learning forms will be completed. Location: 9311 Gaither Rd, Gaithersburg, MD 20877. Contact Alex with any questions at alexnaron@gmail.com or phone 240-620-4795.
Celebrating 31 Years of Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Service to Manna Food Center on July 11, 2017
Bob Fuhrman will exit stage right, and we will inaugurate our incoming President, Dr. Todd Nitkin. This meeting will be held at the Bretton Woods Recreational Center, which is located at 15700 River Road, Germantown, MD 20874. Spouses are encouraged to attend. Also, some awards will be presented for the Rotary Year just ended.
Installation of PB Rotary's New Club President on July 13, 2017, at Bretton Woods Recreational Center
The flooding of March 27, 2017, in northern Peru destroyed the homes, fields and livestock of many families living in the shantytown of Nuevo Catacaos, which is located not far from the city of Piura, Peru. The Rotary Club of Piura reached out to the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club for possible assistance to benefit a small fraction of the perhaps 10,000+ people affected by the flooding in Nuevo Catacaos. The assistance consisted of purchasing and distributing to dislocated families 120 mattresses, 120 blankets and 60 personal hygiene kits. The distribution took place on June 11, 2017.
Tom Lewis received the Rotarian of the Year Award for 2016 and 2017 at the Rotary Club Meeting on June 22, 2017. Tom continues to serve as the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Treasurer and is the Vice President for Business Development at LKA Computer Consultants.
Tom Lewis received the Rotarian of the Year Award for 2016 and 2017 at the Rotary Club Meeting on June 22, 2017
George Clack will lead a discussion on sanctuary cities and immigration issues. He is a member of the Howard County chapter of Indivisible, a grassroots organization made up of individuals concerned about the current Administration's policy agenda.
Since retiring from federal service, Mr. Clack has been an Adjunct Instructor at both Johns Hopkins University and Howard Community College, where he has taught courses in literature, film, blogging, and social media. For the last three years he has also been a Contributing Editor to American Diplomacy Magazine.
Prior to that time he served as Director of the State Department's Office of Publications, where he also was creative director for the internet magazine eJournal USA. Mr. Clack joined the State Department in 1999, when the U.S. Information Agency merged into the Department. While at USIA, he served in various capacities, including as editor-in-chief of America Illustrated, a Russian language magazine distributed in the Soviet Union; associate editor of Dialogue, USIA's worldwide intellectual journal; and Director of the Near East/South Asia Office, in charge of the Washington file news service.
Mr. Clack is a graduate of Allegheny College in Meadville, Pennsylvania and has a Master's in English from the Claremont Graduate School in California. He was raised in Pittsburgh.
George Clack will lead a discussion on sanctuary cities and immigration issues at the Rotary Club Meeting on June 22, 2017.
Ed Kerns has a Master’s degree in Chemistry from California State University. He worked four years for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on the cleanup of pollution in rivers and lakes and on hazardous waste site cleanup. He then worked 30 years in drug research at Bristol-Myers Squibb and Pfizer where he was Associate Director of Chemical Technologies. For the last 4 years of his career, he worked at National Institutes of Health on drugs for rare diseases. Mr. Kerns is co-author of four books on drug research. Since retiring, he has been involved in volunteer activities with the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, Science Montgomery, Town of Laytonsville Parade and The Climate Reality Project. His talk will also address the question of what he believes can be done to address climate change.
Ed Kerns will speak on "What Does Climate Change Mean for Business and Civic Leaders?” at the Rotary Club Meeting on June 8, 2017.
Beyhan Trock, a local architect and a longstanding member of the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rotary Club, will discuss her book, The Ottoman Turk and the Pretty Jewish Girl - Real Turkish Cooking. Beyhan is the daughter of a Moslem father and a Sephardic Jewish mother. This is an extraordinary, unique, and beautiful book. It not only provides a variety of ethnic Jewish and Turkish recipes. It traces an unusual blend of cultures in mid-20th century Istanbul as well as discusses her parents' love story which had to overcome many obstacles. The book is at once a cultural history, a biographical study, and a valuable source of culinary experience and wisdom.
Beyhan Trock will discuss her book, The Ottoman Turk and the Pretty Jewish Girl - Real Turkish Cooking at the Rotary Club Meeting on June 1, 2017
Magician Performance ("Legal Hocus Pocus") by Kenneth M. Trombly, Esq. Local personal injury lawyer Ken Trombly will entertain us on the evening of May 11 by performing magic tricks. He is a member of the IBM, the International Brotherhood of Magicians. Ken graduated from Newton High School in Newtown, Massachusetts, with Nan Darack Fuhrman, President Bob Fuhrman's wife. Ken put himself through law school partially by performing tricks. He entertained as a magician at two presidential inaugural balls but is still waiting for and would greatly appreciate an invitation from the Court of Saint James.
Magician Kenneth M. Trombly Will Entertain at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on May 11, 2017
Ellicott City, Montgomery Village and Potomac-Bethesda Rotarians share a table at the Rotary District Conference banquet on May 6, 2017. [L-R] Dr. Fred Lewis, EC President Bruno Reich, EC President-elect Pam Kreis, Nancy Mason, Bob Nelson, PB President Bob Fuhrman, Cecilia and Edco Bailey.
Rotarians Attend District Conference Banquet on May 6, 2017
On April 20, 2017 President Bob Fuhrman congratulated Alan Grant's nephew Ari Menes who spoke on "What film means to me" and showed several montages he made.
On April 20, 2017 President Bob Fuhrman congratulated Alan Grant's nephew Ari Menes who spoke on "What film means to me" and showed several montages he made.
"My name is Ari Menes and I am from Reading, Massachusetts. I am a fifteen year old freshman at Reading Memorial High School. I love basketball, sports, movies, comic books, talk shows, video games, traveling, and hanging out with my friends. I love new adventures and experiences. Last summer I traveled for the first time alone and it was to Israel, a country I travel to almost yearly. I have a passion for film and I hope to attend film school in the future. I will be showing three of my montages/trailers/edits and will be talking about film."
Alan Grant's nephew Ari Menes will speak on "What film means to me" and show several montages he made at the Rotary Club meeting on April 20, 2017.
Back from his trip to Maui, President Bob Fuhrman thanked Neil Cohen for sharing ways to optimize benefits of air travel bonus miles during his presentation "Frequent Flyer University” on April 13, 2017.
President Bob Fuhrman thanked Neil Cohen for sharing ways to optimize benefits of air travel bonus miles during his presentation "Frequent Flyer University” on April 13, 2017.
Our own Neil Cohen -- a highly experienced and well traveled participant in frequent flyer programs -- will share with us his wisdom on how to accumulate air travel bonus miles and how to optimize the benefits of these programs. As Neil says, "Why pay when you can fly for free?"
Dr. Neil Cohen will share ways to optimize benefits of air travel bonus miles during his presentation "Frequent Flyer University” on April 13, 2017.
President Bob Fuhrman congratulates Guest Speaker Vicki Perper on her presentation “The Importance of Fighting Back Against Plaque” at the Rotary Club meeting on April 6, 2017. Photo by Tom Lewis.
President Bob Fuhrman congratulates Guest Speaker Vicki Perper on her presentation “The Importance of Fighting Back Against Plaque” at the Rotary Club meeting on April 6, 2017.
Treasurer Tom Lewis congratulates President-Elect Todd Nitkin on his presentation "The Inspiration School Project of Ethiopia,” the largest international project ever for the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club at the meeting on March 23, 2017. More information is available at www.inspireethiopia.org.
Treasurer Tom Lewis congratulates President-Elect Todd Nitkin on his presentation "The Inspiration School Project of Ethiopia,” the largest international project ever for the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club at the meeting on March 23, 2017.
The Inspiration School Project of Ethiopia aims to build a complete, fully sustainable school system in the rural Southwest village of Wadeye, where presently no functioning school system exists. We will begin our journey with the transformation of the primary school into a fully functional educational facility, complete with suitable infrastructure including classrooms, desks and chairs, teaching materials, a science center, a library, access to water and sanitation, and a playground. Instructors will be fully certified, and they will be supplied by the government upon certification of the school. We have already formed two village committees, one in Wadeye and one in Addis, and Parent Teacher Association to ensure the teachers receive continuing education and the school becomes a school system that continues to operate at a high level of competency. Please join us in transforming Ethiopia, one new student at a time.
Caesar Kavadoy will also describe a project for Peru that is experiencing disastrous flooding.
President-Elect Todd Nitkin will present "The Inspiration School Project of Ethiopia,” the largest international project ever for the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club at the meeting on March 23, 2017.
The State's Attorney's Office is a constitutionally created independent agency. The mission is to serve the public interest through fair and honest administration of justice by exercising responsibilities to: prosecute criminal violations in Montgomery county; educate the public to criminal justice issues; provide training to lawyers for future service; address inequality and promote fairness in the criminal justice system; insure access to the criminal justice system; promote professional relations with judges and attorneys; and further the efficient use of criminal justice resources. John McCarthy oversees the prosecution of 25,000 criminal matters per year. He is responsible for hiring, training, and monitoring a staff of approximately 150, 80 of whom are attorneys. The state's attorney position is the same as being a district attorney.
State's Attorney For Montgomery County John McCarthy is the Special Guest Speaker at the Rotary Club meeting on March 16, 2017
Karina Korostelina (M.A., National Kiev University; Ph.D., Odessa State University; and Doctor of Science in social psychology, Institute of Psychology of the Ukrainian Academy of Science, Kiev) is a full Professor at the School for Conflict Analysis and Resolution at George Mason University (GMU) and Director of the History, Memory, and Conflict Resolution Program at GMU. She has been a Fulbright New Century Scholar and a Research Fellow at both the Kennan Institute and at the Woodrow Wilson Center for International Scholars (D.C.) Dr. Korostelina has received grants from the MacArthur Foundation, Soros Foundation, and the U.S. Institute of Peace, among other foundations. She is the author of several books, including Constructing the Narratives of Identity and Power: Self-Imagination in a Young Ukrainian Nation (Lexington Books, 2013). Dr. Korostelina's talk will focus on the current conflict in Ukraine.
This Week's Guest Speaker to Address the Conflict in the Ukraine
John Bowis, President, Chevy Chase Automotive, and B-CC Rotarian made an insightful presentation about Driverless Cars and their implications at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club meeting on February 9, 2017
President Bob Fuhrman presents the Rotary Cookbook to guest speaker Kathleen Koch.
President Bob Fuhrman and his wife Nan welcomes District Governor Nominee Designate Barton Goldenberg and his wife Marina.
Former Area Governor Dr. Barry Thompson and his wife Jo Ann.
International Speaker, Award-Winning Journalist and Author Kathleen Koch was the Guest Speaker at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on February 2, 2017
John F. Bowis is the President of Chevy Chase Automotive. In mid-January, he provided a talk on this subject to the Rotary Club of Metro Bethesda, and it created a huge "buzz." Mr. Bowis is extremely knowledgeable regarding current thinking about how driverless cars will radically affect our life styles over the next eight to ten years.
John Bowis, President, Chevy Chase Automotive, and B-CC Rotarian will speak about Driverless Cars and their implications at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club meeting on February 9, 2017
Kathleen Koch is an international speaker on disaster and resilience and founder and executive director of LeadersLink, the first nonprofit to harness and share elected officials’ disaster lessons learned to help communities better prevent, prepare for and recover from similar crises.
She is an award-winning journalist and author who for 18 years was a CNN Washington correspondent covering the White House, Pentagon and Capitol Hill as well as numerous disasters including 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina. Koch currently writes op-eds for publications including CNN.com, USA Today and U.S. News & World Report. She speaks and moderates at events including the International Disaster Conference and Exposition, the Halifax International Security Forum, the GLOBSEC Global Security Forum and the Integrated Research on Disaster Risk Conference.
Koch anchored two prize-winning documentaries on the recovery of her hometown, Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, and recorded its journey in a best-selling book, Rising from Katrina, which was named Best Nonfiction in the Southeast Region in the 2011 Independent Publisher Book Awards. She also shared in the 2006 Peabody Award CNN received for its coverage of the hurricane.
Koch is a senior advisor for Project Rebirth, a nonprofit founded after 9/11 to help first responders, service members, individuals and communities overcome trauma and become more resilient. In 2011, she launched Words of Hope for Japan, the largest letter-writing campaign in the U.S. to collect cards and letters for the survivors of the earthquake and tsunami.
Koch was a Rotary Foundation Ambassadorial Scholar at the University of Dijon and is the 2014 winner of the Rotary Global Alumni Service to Humanity Award for Zone 31. She currently serves on the University of Southern Mississippi Mass Communications and Journalism Advisory Board.
International Speaker, Award-Winning Journalist and Author Kathleen Koch is the Guest Speaker at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club meeting on February 2, 2017
President Bob Fuhrman presents a Rotary Cookbook to our first guest speaker of 2017, Jordan Cooper. Jordan addressed local government services and infrastructure issues (especially WSSC) on January 12, 2017
Jordan P. Cooper has been consistently engaged in public service for the past 16 years and has spent 8 of those years being actively engaged in Maryland politics. Jordan works on Health IT and Health Information Exchange implementing Obamacare for the District of Columbia’s Department of Health Care Finance. He ran as a Democratic Candidate for Delegate in the 2014 election cycle. He served as the President of the Luxmanor Citizens Association (2013-2014) and currently serves on the Western Montgomery County Citizens Advisory Board, the White Flint Downtown Advisory Committee, the Rockville Selective Service Board, and the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission Customer Advisory Board. He is an Area Coordinator in District 16 for the Montgomery County Democratic Central Committee and is a member of the District 16 Democratic Board. Jordan has a master's degree in health policy from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and a bachelor's degree in political science from Vassar College. Jordan was born and raised in Bethesda, Maryland.
Guest Speaker Jordan Cooper to Address Local Government Services and Infrastructure Issues, especially WSSC, on January 12, 2017
[L-R] Bob Nelson, Tom Lewis and Alex Naron at the Manna Food Center on January 10, 2017. The Rotarians and volunteers packed 96 boxes of food for needy families in Montgomery County.
"The 2017 Float promotes and celebrates the 100 years of The Rotary Foundation. The Foundation empowers Rotarians to travel throughout the world and create and complete projects which serve people in need in six areas of focus which are: promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water, saving mothers and children, supporting education, and growing local economies. The spectacular and colorful dragon is clearly a world traveler carrying luggage decorated with the six symbols of the areas of focus. The Dragon also is proudly wearing a necklace with a medallion marked 100 for the 100 years of service."
2017 Rose Parade Rotary Float "Doing Good in the World"
Art Blitz gave a review of Historian Joseph J. Ellis' Book "The Quartet" at the Rotary Club meeting on December 15, 2016. Tom Lewis convened the meeting for the President.
Art Blitz gave a review of Historian Joseph J. Ellis' Book "The Quartet" at the Rotary Club meeting on December 15, 2016
Above is just a sampling of the many thank you notes that were received by the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club from third-grade students who had received a dictionary.
Rotarians Distributed 1000 Dictionaries to 3rd Graders at 10 Elementary Schools
Our own in-house counsel Arthur Blitz will speak on Joseph Ellis' book "The Quartet." Published in 2015, Ellis focused on four men who he asserts lead the transition from the ineffectual Articles of Confederation to what he describes as the founding of "American nationhood," the creation, adoption, and effectualization of the U.S. Constitution. Those identified as the "Quartet" were George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, and James Madison. According to the author, three important "supporting players" were Robert Morris, Gouverneur Morris and Thomas Jefferson. Expert in legal thinking, Art Blitz is sure to provide a concise summary and analysis, which should make for an illuminating and memorable presentation.
Art Blitz will give a review of Historian Joseph J. Ellis' Book "The Quartet" at the Rotary Club meeting on December 15, 2016
President Bob Fuhrman presented a Rotary Cookbook to Dr. Joseph Goldberg to thank him for his talk, “India - Potential for Terrorism and Armed Conflict” at the Rotary Club Meeting on December 1, 2016.
President Bob Fuhrman presented a Rotary Cookbook to Dr. Joseph Goldberg to thank him for his talk, “India - Potential for Terrorism and Armed Conflict” at the Rotary Club Meeting on December 1, 2016.
Dr. Joseph Goldberg is a "defense intellectual" who worked for over three decades on actual and emerging international "hotspots." His talk will focus on India and will cover a broad range of issues, including the potential for terrorist activity in India.
Dr. Goldberg is a native of Sioux City, Iowa and received his Ph.D. in political science from the University of Washington (Seattle). He studied as well at the University of Minnesota and the University of Michigan. He served as a faculty member at Simon Frazer University (Vancouver, British Columbia), the University of Virginia, and Hampden-Sydney College (Farmville, Virginia), where he served as well as Chairman of the Department of Political Science.
He accepted a position as Director of Research at the Institute for Strategic Studies at the National Defense University, where he conducted and directed research on national security concerns. After five years, he joined the faculty of the Industrial College of the Armed Forces (now the Eisenhower School) as a Professor of National Security Studies. In addition to examining strategic issues, Dr. Goldberg concentrated on counter-terrorism, South Asia, and weapons of mass destruction. Dr. Goldberg has published on national security concerns in these areas, as well as on the Middle East. As is the case with many Department of Defense officials, his work required significant foreign travel.
After over twenty years with the U.S. government, Dr. Goldberg retired and has been working on a study of terrorism in India, an issue that has enabled him to integrate ideas related to the areas on which he has worked for many years.
The issues on which he will speak are of great concern to the United States and the rest of the world.
Dr. Joseph Goldberg to Speak on “India - Potential for Terrorism and Armed Conflict” at the Rotary Club Meeting on December 1, 2016
The Rotary Foundation Announces Top District Clubs for 2015-2016
Top Three Highest Clubs in Annual Per Capita Giving-- Catonsville, Ellicott City, and College Park
The Rotary Foundation (TRF) recently announced club recognitions based on annual foundation giving for the 2015-2016 Rotary year ending June 30. The Rotary Club of Catonsville with contributions to the Annual Fund of $341.67 per capita was ranked first in District 7620. The Rotary Club of Ellicott City ranked second with per capita giving of $322.61 and the Rotary Club of College Park ranked third with per capita giving of $316.30. These clubs were three of only 1564 clubs worldwide to achieve Top Three Highest in Per Capita Annual Giving honors. Only clubs with a minimum of US$50 per capita were eligible.
100 Percent Giving Clubs
Eleven district clubs were recognized as a 100% Foundation Giving Club. They were: Aberdeen, Baltimore, Bonds Meadow, Catonsville, College Park, Columbia Town Center, Crofton, Elkridge, Metro Bethesda, Potomac, and Potomac-Bethesda. Only 4,609 clubs worldwide attained this status. To be eligible, 100% of all active members must personally contribute to TRF and the average contribution must be at least US$100.
Every Rotarian, Every Year/Sustaining Member Clubs
Six district clubs were among the 2,253 clubs worldwide to attain 100% Foundation Sustaining Member Club status. They were: Aberdeen, Baltimore, Bonds Meadow, Columbia Town Center, Metro Bethesda, and Potomac-Bethesda.
The above clubs received banners noting their accomplishments.
Twenty Clubs were honored for supporting the End Polio Now Campaign with an annual donation of $1,500 or more to the PolioPlus fund. The clubs, recognized with a certificate of appreciation, included Aberdeen, Annapolis, Bethesda-Chevy Chase, Bonds Meadow, Carroll Creek, Charles County (La Plata), College Park, Columbia, Columbia-Patuxent, Frederick, Gaithersburg, Glen Burnie, Lake Shore-Severna Park, Lexington Park, Montgomery Village, Parole, Potomac, Potomac-Bethesda, Silver Spring-Kensington, and South Anne Arundel County.
Congratulations to each of the clubs recognized. These contributions to TRF help to fulfill the dream of sixth RI President Arch Klumph when he envisioned an endowment for the purpose of “doing good in the world” one hundred years ago.
Rotary District Governor Anna-Mae Kobbe
The Rotary Foundation Announces Top Clubs for 2015-2016
Back from photo safaris in Botswana and South Africa, Nancy Mason and Bob Nelson showed 167 photos from their exciting journey. Nancy received the Rotary Cookbook from President Bob Fuhrman for her presentation. Bob Nelson celebrated his birthday at the Rotary Club meeting.
Back from photo safaris in Botswana and South Africa on November 10, 2016, Nancy Mason and Bob Nelson showed some of their photos from their exciting journey.
Alan Grant and Bob Nelson distributed dictionaries to third graders at Waters Landing Elementary School on November 15, 2016. [Below] Students at the Melvin Berman Hebrew Academy display new words they found in their dictionaries.
Alan Grant and Bob Nelson distributed dictionaries to third graders at Waters Landing Elementary School on November 15, 2016
Back from photo safaris in Botswana and South Africa, Nancy Mason and Bob Nelson will narrate and show some of their photos from their exciting journey.
Enjoy a Photo Safari from Botswana and South Africa at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on November 10, 2016
Please join us for David Petr's upcoming presentation at the Rotary Club of Potomac-Bethesda on Thursday, November 3, 2016 at 6:30 pm. The meeting and dinner will be at Normandie Farm Restaurant in Potomac, Maryland.
The Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation (MCEDC) brings a big and bold approach to achieving greater economic competitiveness and prosperity across Montgomery County, MD.
A nonprofit organization with a fresh public/private perspective, entrepreneurial spirit, and proactive approach to economic development, the MCEDC is focused on maximizing Montgomery County’s rich diversity of people, talent, and multitude of workforce and business expertise to keep it at the leading edge of today’s hyper-competitive economic development environment.
Comprised of a highly-inclusive team of 11 on its Board of Directors, the MCEDC is committed to upholding and extending the County’s vibrant community and leveraging the advantages it brings for the future of business across the region.
It’s a new day for economic development in the county, with a fresh perspective and a level of service.
On October 13, 2016, guest speaker Samantha Horwitz was thanked by President Bob Fuhrman after her talk about her new book, "The Silent Fall: A Secret Service Agent's Story of Tragedy and Triumph After 9/11."
On October 13, 2016, guest speaker Samantha Horwitz was thanked by President Bob Fuhrman after her talk about her new book, "The Silent Fall: A Secret Service Agent's Story of Tragedy and Triumph After 9/11."
After graduating from both the University of Maryland, College Park, and Howard University Law School, Sam Horwitz was accepted into the U.S. Secret Service. She was the only woman in her graduating class to complete extensive training at the Federal Law Enforcement Center and the James J. Rowley Training Center, located just outside of D.C. She was assigned to the New York Field Office, Electronic Crimes Task Force. In addition to her extensive case work, she provided protection to several U.S. Presidents, former Presidents, First Ladies, and many foreign dignitaries.
Sam was in an elevator in the North Tower of the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001, when American Airlines Flight 11 struck the North Tower. After many difficult months, she made the heart wrenching decision to leave the Secret Service due the the effects of post-traumatic stress. After recovering from PTSD, later in time she returned to the law enforcement community in Montgomery County, MD as a Lieutenant assigned to its Executive Protection detail. Her law enforcement career spanned a total of twelve years, prior to retiring from it in 2012.
Samantha Horwitz is now a successful entrepreneur, business owner, speaker, and author, and lives in Texas.
October 13, 2016 Guest Speaker is Samantha Horowitz, Former Secret Service Agent, Who Will Talk About Her New Book, The Silent Fall: A Secret Service Agent's Story of Tragedy and Triumph After 9/11.
[Above] President Bob Fuhrman provided an overview of the chapter on the Presidency of John F. Kennedy presented in William Leuchtenberg's history titled "The American President." Attendees shared perceptions and reflections on the pivotal years between the relative tranquility of the Eisenhower years and the emotional and political upheavals that followed the assassination of President Kennedy. [Below] Tom displays a copy of his father's book and Steve Naron visited from Hollywood Florida.
September 29 Rotary Club Meeting: John F. Kennedy as Discussed in William Leuchtenberg's Book "The American President"
North Bethesda Rotarian Jacques Paraskevas compared the U.S. and French political systems at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on September 22, 2016
Capitol Hill Rotary Club Achieves 50% Membership Growth in First Quarter
By Quentin Wodon
Let’s admit it: achieving a high growth rate (negative or positive) is easier with a small club. Still, after more than five years of almost continuous decline in membership, the Rotary Club of Capitol Hill seems to have turned the page. We had 18 members on July 1. Now we have 27, with 9 new members inducted in the first quarter of the new Rotary year.
How did we do it? Let me share our recipe in case it may also be useful for other clubs.
Prior to becoming a U.S. citizen, Jacques Paraskévas was an official of the French embassy in Washington, D.C. He became a U.S. citizen, he claims, because, with exposure, he discovered that he preferred our republican form of government to the French system, which he claims has attributes of both a monarchy and a form of multi-national state headquartered in Brussels. His comments on these two political systems should be enlightening. Come prepared to learn how to say the Pledge of Allegiance in French. Jacques is a member of the Rotary Club of North Bethesda.
Guest Speaker Jacques Paraskevas Will Compare the U.S. and French Political Systems at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on September 22, 2016.
Dr. Susan Rich spoke about "Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder" at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club meeting on September 15, 2016. Pictured [L-R] are State Senator Brian Feldman, Dr. Susan Rich, President Bob Fuhrman and State Delegate Aruna Miller.
Dr. Susan Rich is a psychiatrist who practices in Potomac, MD. She recently authored a book on fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) titled The Silent Epidemic: A Child Psychiatrist's Journey Beyond Death Row. Focusing on anxiety and neurodevelopmental disorders in children, adolescents, and adults, Dr. Rich is committed to the diagnosis and treatment of prenatal alcohol exposure. A nationally known speaker in the field of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, she was named one of Washington, DC's Top Doctors in 2010 and 2015 by the Washingtonian Magazine and was selected as one of America's Top Psychiatrists by the Consumer Research Council of America 2008-2014. She received the distinction of "Most Compassionate Physician" by CRCA in 2012. Dr. Rich currently serves as President-Elect of the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Society of Greater Washington.
Dr. Susan Rich is Guest Speaker at the September 15, 2016, Meeting of the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club at Normandie Farm Restaurant
Dr. Neil Cohen presented the TV sitcom pilot “Bennie’s Gym” starring Ed Asner that he produced locally at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club meeting on September 1, 2016.
Dr. Neil Cohen presented the TV sitcom pilot “Bennie’s Gym” starring Ed Asner that he produced locally at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club meeting on September 1, 2016.
President Bob Fuhrman thanked Rotary District Governor Dr. Anna-Mae Kobbe for her presentation during the official visit at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club on August 25, 2016.
President Bob Fuhrman thanked Rotary District Governor Dr. Anna-Mae Kobbe for her presentation during the official visit at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club on August 25, 2016.
Dr. Kobbe was inducted into the Rotary Club of College Park in January 2000. She served as Club President 2008-2009. Her district experience includes serving as Administrative Assistant to DG Bette Lewis and DG Jay Kumar, Area Governor, District Trainer, member of the District Global Grant Scholarship Committee, member of the Rotary/Gallaudet Scholarship Committee, and serving as the District Paul Harris Society Chair. Anna-Mae is a Paul Harris Fellow, a Paul Harris Society member, and a Major Donor.
Her career was with the U. S. Department of Agriculture/Land-Grant University System’s Cooperative Extension Service. She began her career with the University of Missouri Extension Service, was on the faculty with the University of Tennessee Extension Service, and served as a National Program Leader and Division Director at the United States Department of Agriculture’s Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service. She retired from the Federal government in 2006. She served as a Visiting Professor at the University of Kentucky, School of Human Environmental Sciences from 2006 to 2008.
Anna-Mae was born and raised in Iowa. She holds a B.S. Degree in Secondary Education from Northwest Missouri State University, a Master’s Degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia, and a Ph.D. from the University of Tennessee-Knoxville.
Anna-Mae is married to Doug Newell, also a Rotarian in the Rotary Club of College Park. They live in University Park, Maryland. They are members of University Christian Church in Hyattsville, Maryland.
Rotary District Governor Dr. Anna-Mae Kobbe Will Make Her Official Visit to the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club on August 25, 2016
Obituary: Arthur Comer was born December 12, 1949, to the union of Thor and Lois Comer. He was the youngest of six children. He had a happy childhood and a home filled with love.
Art accepted Christ at an early age and joined the Union Baptist Church. He became active with the choir and sang with the Spirimelodaires. Later in life, Art met Pastor Norflee Harrison of Victory Church of the Nazarene. Art loved Pastor Harrison like a brother and he was a devoted and faithful friend. Art attended Walnut Hills High School, where he excelled in academics and sports. He graduated in 1967. Art pursued his undergraduate and graduate studies at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting in 1971, and a Juris Doctor in Law in 1974.
While pursuing his college studies, Art met and married Michele Roquemore. A daughter, Tonyia Monique Comer was born to their union. In Cleveland, Art worked at the Standard Oil Company as a tax account ant while studying for the bar exam. He was licensed by the Supreme Court of Ohio and began a career in the private practice of law with several Cleveland attorneys.
Art later returned to Cincinnati, where he married Pamela Mackey and became father to Chinyere Amaefule. Art continued working in the fields of accounting and law. He worked with the Internal Revenue Service and also with attorneys in the Cincinnati area.
Art was well liked and enjoyed life. He loved to dance. He also attended many concerts and appreciated listening to a wide variety of musical styles. He had a keen sense of humor and could think quickly on his feet. He read the Bible, prayed and wrote meditations daily. Art truly loved the Lord.
Art has gone on to be with his parents, Thor and Lois Comer; his brother, Thor Jr. and sisters, Delores and Marjorie, also known as "Peaches"; and nephew, Maurice. He leaves to cherish his memory: daughters, Tonyia and Chinyere; former spouses, Michele and Pamela; grandchildren, Anthony and Alana; brother, Marvin(Annease); sister, Audrey; nephews ,Donald and Mario; niece, Kallisa; and a host of other relatives and friends.
In Memoriam: Arthur Comer: December 12, 1949 - July 22, 2016; StepFather of Chinyere Amaefule
Rotary SummerFest at Bluestone Sanctuary on August 20, 2016, was enjoyed by 40+ Rotarians and guests from Potomac-Bethesda Rotary, Ellicott City Rotary, EC Sunrise Rotary and Howard West Rotary Clubs.
[Above] Dr. Stephen Hellman gave Dr. Stephen Vaccarezza a Rotary Cookbook for his presentation on his trip to Greece at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club meeting on August 11, 2016. Dr. Stephen Vaccarezza is the Treasurer of the North Bethesda Rotary Club.
Dr. Stephen Hellman gave Dr. Stephen Vaccarezza a Rotary Cookbook for his presentation on his trip to Greece at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club meeting on August 11, 2016.
Potomac-Bethesda Rotarians enjoyed a Summertime Social at Bretton Woods Recreation Center on August 4, 2016, the 36th Anniversary of the Club's Chartering.
President Elect Dr. Todd Nitkin talked about Inspire Ethiopia, the Inspiration School Project of Ethiopia. The purpose is to build a complete, fully sustainable school system in the rural village of Wadeye, where presently no adequate school exists. It starts with the transformation of the primary school, complete with suitable infrastructure including classrooms, desks and chairs, teaching materials, a science center, a library, access to water and sanitation, and a playground. Instructors will be fully certified, and they will be supplied by the government upon certification of the school. Two Village Committees have already been formed, one in Wadeye and one in Addis, and a Parent Teacher Association to ensure the teachers receive continuing education and the school system continues to operate at a high level of competency. Please visit InspireEthiopia.org for more information and join Todd in transforming Ethiopia, one new student at a time!
On July 28, 2016, Dr. Todd Nitkin described a New Project, "The Inspiration School Project of Ethiopia" that aims to build a complete, fully sustainable school system in the rural village of Wadeye, where presently no functioning school system exists.
Dr. Todd Nitkin is going to lay out his thinking about a Global Grant Project he is championing. This is a chance for our Club members to learn about his proposal and to ask questions.
At the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on July 28, 2016, Dr. Todd Nitkin will speak about a proposed Global Grant Project, A New Elementary School in Ethiopia
President Bob Fuhrman welcomed guests on July 14, 2016: Buck Williams, retired from the NBA; Steven Grant, newly installed Mayor of Boynton Beach, Florida; Irene Grant; Nancy Mason and Nabil Bedewi.
[Above] Bob Fuhrman is congratulated by Bob Nelson for his continuing service as President for the second year. Both President Bob Fuhrman and President-Elect Dr. Todd Nitkin described their work planning international service projects in Nepal and Ethiopia respectively. [Below L-R] President Bob Fuhrman, guest BT Arnett, Dr. Noel Howard and Nancy Mason.
President Bob Fuhrman Highlights Plans for the New 2016-17 Rotary Year at the Club Assembly on July 7, 2016
Steven Grant, a 33-year-old political newcomer, ousted five-term incumbent Mayor Jerry Taylor in the election on March 29. -Palm Beach Post
Meet and greet the new Mayor of Boynton Beach, Florida. Steven Grant is a 2005 graduate of the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance, and earned a J.D. from Florida Coastal School of Law in 2010. He studied abroad at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, the China University of Political Science and Law in Beijing, and the University of the Netherlands Antilles. He will be introduced by his father, our own Rotarian Alan Grant.
Mayor of Boynton Beach, Florida, is our Guest Speaker on July 14, 2016
Our own Neil Cohen discussed his recent work as one of the producers of what may become a new television sitcom. Ed Asner starred in the pilot that was recently filmed here in Maryland. Photo by Dr. Stephen Hellman.
Dr. Neil Cohen spoke about the TV sitcom pilot he produced locally at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club meeting on June 30, 2016
Nancy Altman is the author of The Battle for Social Security: From FDR’s Vision to Bush’s Gamble (John Wiley & Sons, 2005). She is also the head of an organization called "Social Security Works" and is the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Pension Rights Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the protection of beneficiary rights. Additionally, Nancy is on the Board of Directors of the National Academy of Social Insurance, a membership organization of over 800 of the nation’s leading experts on social insurance. In the mid-1980’s, she was on the organizing committee and the first board of directors of the National Academy of Social Insurance. Nancy was on the staff of Senator John Dansforth when he served on the Senate Finance Committee. She was Special Assistant to Alan Greeenspan when he head the National Commission on Social Security Reform in the mid-1980s. A lawyer by training, Nancy has taught pension and social security benefits law at Harvard Law School and similar courses at Harvard's Kennedy School of Government. She will talk on why she believes Social Security benefits should be increased.
Nancy J. Altman to Speak on "Saving Social Security" at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on June 23, 2016
Alex Naron (leader), Tom Lewis and Bob Nelson celebrated 30 years of partnering with the Manna Food Center on June 14, 2016. Every month on the second Tuesday, Rotarians and other volunteers pack 144 boxes for needy families in Montgomery County.
Potomac-Bethesda Rotarians Celebrated 30 Years of Packing Food Boxes at the Manna Food Center on June 14, 2016
Larry Heilman shared “Lessons Learned in a Career in International Development” at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on June 9, 2016. In appreciation President Bob Fuhrman presented him with a Rotary cookbook.
Larry Heilman, PhD, a member of the Metro Bethesda Rotary Club, will talk about the problems he experienced while working on international development projects in Nepal, Bangladesh, Guatemala, Mexico, Bolivia, and Burkina Faso as an employee of the U.S. Agency for International Development.
Larry Heilman Will Share “Lessons Learned in a Career in International Development” at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on June 9, 2016
[Above] President Bob Fuhrman thanks Dr. Stephen Hellman for his classification talk including an historical perspective on medical breakthroughs at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club meeting on May 26, 2016. [Below] Congratulations to Chinyere Amaefule who was awarded her first Paul Harris Fellow and Art Blitz received a pin for his third Paul Harris Fellow.
New Rotary Club Member Dr. Stephen Hellman Gave His Classification Talk on May 26, 2016
Dr. Stephen Hellman has practiced in Montgomery County for the past 30 years and has extensive experience in all components of internal medicine. His expertise extends to Nephrology (kidney diseases) with a degree from Georgetown University.
New Rotary Club Member Dr. Stephen Hellman Gives His Classification Talk on May 26, 2016
Bob Smolik, a veteran diplomat, represented the United States at embassies throughout Europe and at international organizations such as the United Nations, NATO, and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development. As political advisor to U.S. military commanders in Europe and Africa, he worked in conflict mediation. As an economic diplomat, he has helped to open foreign markets to U.S. investors and traders on a fair and equal basis. During academic years 2005-2007 he was faculty member at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor and faculty fellow at Telluride House. As an international lecturer on anti-corruption and good governance, he has worked in more than 30 countries throughout Latin America, Africa, and Europe. He engages audiences with passion and expertise, offering a look “behind the scenes” at how foreign cultures view the world. Bob holds graduate degrees from Berkeley and Harvard, an undergraduate degree from Cornell, and he is fluent in five Romance languages.
Veteran Diplomat Bob Smolik to Speak on "Our Future Globalization" at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on May 19, 2016
Potomac-Bethesda Rotarians with Jewish Foundation Group Home (JFGH) Executive Director Vivian Bass and Leyana Crumpton.
Leyana Crumpton said: "Much gratitude to the Rotarians for your hard work on behalf of JFGH’s Wagner Home. All your work helped transform our home into another beautiful space inside and out. Juan Carlos painters’ were terrific as always!"
Art Blitz thanked his fellow Rotarians: "Just a short note to say thank you to those who participated in the Jewish Foundations for Group Homes “Fix Up” project last Saturday. And a special “Thank You” to Juan Carlos who supplied a crew of professional painters who painted the interior of the premises and to Tom Leuchtenburg who brought a ton of tools, gloves, mulch, seed, fertilizer and other supplies for the outside work. We had a nice turnout! Again, thanks to our hard-working Rotarians who labored long and hard to spruce up the landscape areas."
Vivian Bass is retiring after 30 years and a celebration is set for Sunday, June 26, 2016, from 2pm-5pm at the Julia Bindeman Suburban Center, 11810 Falls Road, Potomac.
From Art Blitz: This is a reminder that our “Fix Up” project for the Jewish Foundation for Group Homes will take place on Saturday, May 14, at 1203 LaGrande Road, Silver Spring, starting around 9:30 am. Juan Carlos’s crew will be painting inside the house. The rest of us will be doing light landscape work. Tom Leuchtenburg is bringing tools, gloves, etc. Feel free to bring your own tools (rakes, shovels, etc.) Take the Beltway Eastbound to New Hampshire Avenue. Go north on New Hampshire Avenue, and make a left onto Cresthaven Drive, and a left on LaGrande Road. So far, I have commitments from Juan Carlos Peirano (his painters), Arthur Blitz, Alan Grant, Jerry Gross, Tom Leuchtenburg, Tom Lewis - Maybe, Bob Nelson and Todd Nitkin. Please let me know if you can attend. Leyana Crumpton from JFGH will have morning coffee and donuts for us.
“Fix Up” project for the Jewish Foundation for Group Homes will take place on Saturday, May 14, 2016, at 1203 LaGrande Road, Silver Spring, starting around 9:30 am.
Rotary District Governor Nominee Greg Wims spoke about the Victims Rights Foundation at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club meeting on April 28, 2016. The Victims Rights Foundation performs volunteer support services on behalf of victims of violent crimes and attacks. President Bob Fuhrman gave DGN Greg a copy of the Rotary Cookbook.
Rotary District Governor Nominee Greg Wims spoke about the Victims Rights Foundation at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club meeting on April 28, 2016.
Greg Wims is the former Area Governor for our portion of Montgomery County and the District Governor Nominee for 2017-2018. Among other distinctions, he is also the Founder of the Victims Rights Foundation, a non-profit 501(c)(3) Montgomery County, MD based volunteer group that performs volunteer support services on behalf of victims of violent crimes and attacks. Greg will also discuss several matters related to District 7620.
Rotary District Governor Nominee Greg Wims to Speak at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on April 28, 2016.
Rockville Rotarian John Kolm gave a presentation on the Haiti school project on April 21, 2016, that was supported by the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club. President Bob Fuhrman presented John with the Rotary Cookbook.
Rockville Rotarian John Kolm gave a presentation on the Haiti school project on April 21, 2016, that was supported by the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club.
John Kolm is an innovator of 21st century team productivity programs, a best selling author, a former intelligence officer, and President-Elect of the Rockville Rotary Club. Originally from Australia, he is the CEO of Team Results USA, a company focused on increasing team productivity by using modern methods that are measurable and sustainable. He is qualified in Psychology from the University of Melbourne, and in mathematics and statistics from the U.S. National Cryptologic School, where he also taught. John's presentation will focus on the primary school in Haiti that the Rockville Club assisted in recent years. Hopefully, we will obtain valuable insights about how Rockville Rotary managed that effort that we can employ in our future projects in the developing world.
John Kolm Will Speak About Rockville Rotary's Haitian School Project at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on April 21, 2016
[Above] From the Rotary Club meeting on April 7, 2016: President Bob Fuhrman presenting a Rotary Cookbook to Todd Nitkin, who had just agreed to replace Bob Fuhrman. [Below] President Bob also presented a Rotary Cookbook to District Executive Secretary Sherry Whitworth at the District Conference, and Sherry Whitworth presenting a Rotary Cookbook to Nan Fuhrman.
Dr. Todd Nitkin Named President-Elect Beginning July 1, 2016
John Kolm is an innovator of 21st century team productivity programs, a best selling author,* a former intelligence officer, and President-Elect of the Rockville Rotary Club. Originally from Australia, he is the CEO of Team Results USA, a company focused on increasing team productivity by using modern methods that are measurable and sustainable. He is qualified in Psychology from the University of Melbourne, and in mathematics and statistics from the U.S. National Cryptologic School, where he also taught.
John's presentation will focus on the primary school in Haiti that the Rockville Club assisted in recent years. Hopefully, we will obtain valuable insights about how Rockville Rotary managed that effort that we can employ in our future projects in the developing world.
* In 2004, John co-authored the global best seller "Crocodile Charlie and the Holy Grail," which was published by Penguin Books! We kid you not.
- See more at: http://www.pbrotary.org/speakers/a3f1281c-1e98-4a8b-ba54-78fa8b39f473#sthash.b7VZiJRA.dpuf
John Kolm is an innovator of 21st century team productivity programs, a best selling author, a former intelligence officer, and President-Elect of the Rockville Rotary Club. Originally from Australia, he is the CEO of Team Results USA, a company focused on increasing team productivity by using modern methods that are measurable and sustainable. He is qualified in Psychology from the University of Melbourne, and in mathematics and statistics from the U.S. National Cryptologic School, where he also taught. John's presentation will focus on the primary school in Haiti that the Rockville Club assisted in recent years. Hopefully, we will obtain valuable insights about how Rockville Rotary managed that effort that we can employ in our future projects in the developing world.
John Kolm Will Speak About Rockville Rotary's Haitian School Project at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on April 21, 2016
[Above] President Bob Fuhrman thanks Mike Nardolilli, the new Executive Director of the Montgomery Parks Foundation, for his presentation including the “Top 10 List of Why Parks Matter" on March 31, 2016. [Below] Past Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club President Dr. Juvenal Goicochea and his brother Carlos, also a Past Rotary Club President from Peru.
President Bob Fuhrman thanks Mike Nardolilli, the new Executive Director of the Montgomery Parks Foundation, for his presentation including the “Top 10 List of Why Parks Matter" on March 31, 2016.
Steven Grant came out victorious in Tuesday's mayoral runoff election in Boynton Beach. Grant, an attorney, dethroned longtime mayor Jerry Taylor. He will serve for three years. As of 10 p.m. Tuesday, the Supervisor of Elections website showed Grant beating Taylor 2,538-1,906 in the at-large voting. Taylor, 80, was running for his sixth term as mayor.
Grant said Tuesday that he was ready to take his seat April 5. "I'm grateful for the opportunity to be the mayor-elect of Boynton Beach," he said. He said his victory symbolizes change. "We're not happy," he said. "We're looking for change that puts residents and business owners first, not outside interests." It's been a long race to become the city's 47th mayor. Five candidates were in the March 15 election. Taylor and Grant got the most votes, but neither had enough to take the seat.
Taylor raised $44,300 as of March 10, according to city documents. Grant raised $2,930, but garnered the support of the Palm Beach Human Rights Council, an organization that endorses candidates dedicated to ending discrimination.
Grant says that as mayor he will concentrate on moving the city forward, adding more recycling to the city's Public Works program and bringing smart development to downtown so the city doesn't lose its family appeal. He also wants to save the old high school, at 125 E. Ocean Ave., from being demolished. The high school has been vacant for almost 30 years and was on the brink of demolition before a developer stepped in with a plan to turn the building into a community hub earlier this year.
[Excerpted from the Sun Sentinel]
MEMBER NEWS: Alan Grant's Son Steven Defeated Incumbent in Boynton Beach Mayoral Runoff
Potomac-Bethesda Rotarians joined the March 24, 2016, meeting of the metroBethesda Rotary Club. metroBethesda President Russell Lacey presented a giant check in the amount of $1000 to Potomac-Bethesda President Bob Fuhrman for the Ear Care Nepal project. [L-R] Karl Miller, Tom Leuchtenburg, Potomac-Bethesda President Bob Fuhrman, metroBethesda President Russell Lacey and Bob Nelson.
metroBethesda Rotary Donates $1000 to Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club's Ear Care Nepal Project on March 24, 2016
Michael Zhuang was the guest speaker on March 17, 2016, with the presentation "Investment Insight of Nobel Prize Winners." The 2013 Nobel Prize Winners in Economics were Eugene Fama, Robert Shiller and Lars Peter Hansen. President Bob Fuhrman presented Michael Zhuang with a Rotary Cookbook.
Michael Zhuang was the guest speaker on March 17, 2016, with the presentation "Investment Insight of Nobel Prize Winners."
It appears it’s back to the polls for Boynton Beach.
The top two candidates for the mayor and District 3 commissioner races had to win the majority of the votes plus one to claim the seats, and no one did. Now, the top two candidates in each race are headed to the March 29 runoff.
For the five-candidate mayor’s race, incumbent Jerry Taylor, 80, won the most votes and will go up against political newcomer Steven Grant, 33. For the three-candidate commissioner race, newcomer Christina Romelus, 27, took the lead and will face incumbent Mike Fitzpatrick, 62.
This would be Taylor’s sixth term as mayor. While the main competition early on was between him and outgoing Commissioner David Merker, Grant attracted those residents who are looking for a new direction in the city. Grant is an attorney who lives in the Heart of Boynton and is the former chair of the city’s financial advisory committee.
“A lot of people are ready for a change in Boynton Beach,” Grant said when reached by phone at the Twisted Fish.
Ellen Haggerty, Chair of the Rotarians for Hearing Action Group and a member of the Pleasant Valley New York Rotary Club exchanges club banners and presents President Bob Fuhrman with a check for $500 for the Ear Care Nepal Project.
Ellen Haggerty, Chair of the Rotarians for Hearing Action Group and a member of the Pleasant Valley New York Rotary Club exchanges club banners and presents President Bob Fuhrman with a check for $500 for the Ear Care Nepal Project on March 10, 2016.
Endorsement of Steven Grant for Mayor of Boynton Beach From the Sun Sentinel Newspaper:
Select political newcomer Steven Grant for mayor
Sun Sentinel Editorial Board
Choose Steven Grant for mayor
One number doesn't often tell the whole story about cities. In Boynton Beach, one number tells a lot.
At 71,000, Boynton has 6,000 more residents than Delray Beach, its neighbor to the south. Yet Delray's taxable property value is $8 billion — nearly double that of Boynton Beach.
Why? Delray has a natural downtown, centered on Atlantic Avenue, that connects to the public beach. Mainly, though, for roughly 25 years, Delray Beach has had superior elected leadership.
Since 1995, over three stretches, Jerry Taylor has been mayor of Boynton Beach. What does he have to show for those 14 years? Boynton may be close to saving the 1927 high school and turning it into a gathering spot, or not. Boynton may be close to a surge of development in the historic downtown, or not. Boynton may be on the verge of needed fire and police pension reform, or not.
Yet as he campaigns at age 80 for re-election in the March 15 election, Taylor touts himself by saying, "I've been elected five times," adding that he wants to "make Boynton Beach the best that it can be." If Taylor were the leader he claims to be, the city would be much closer to that goal.
David Merker, who resigned his City Commission seat to challenge Taylor, casts himself as the can-do alternative. Yet during the candidates' interview with the Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Merker — whose record includes a bankruptcy — focused more on attacking Taylor than offering a more compelling, specific agenda. One can envision many needlessly long, unproductive commission meetings with Merker leading them.
So we turn to attorney Steven Grant. He has not held elective office, though he did serve on the Financial Advisory Board. At 32, he is 38 years younger than Merker and 48 years younger than Taylor. Even the mayor notes that Boynton Beach's average age is 44. "The city is attracting more families," Taylor said. "There's an amazing number of children at city events."
Grant has the right priorities — saving the old high school, beautifying the city, filling the vacant commercial spaces. "I want to be that force," he said, to make Boynton realize its potential. Neither Taylor nor Merker would be that force. Neither would the other candidates, Carl McKoy and Piotr Blass. The Sun Sentinel endorses Steven Grant for mayor of Boynton Beach.
MEMBER NEWS: Alan Grant's Son Steven is Candidate for Mayor in Boynton Beach, FL
Debby Fisher, Interim Chief Operating Officer of CHI Centers, Inc., was the guest speaker at the March 3, 2016, Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club meeting. CHI Centers, Inc. provides residential services in alternative living units, rent subsidized housing, vocational training, and working with adults with disabilities. In February, the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Foundation donated $4,000 to CHI Centers, Inc.
Rotary Club of Potomac Bethesda Annual Valentine's Day Initiative
In honor of Valentine's Day, Potomac-Bethesda Rotary presented pashmina shawls to residents at Sophia's House in Rockville, Maryland. Sophia's House provides emergency shelter for women with mental illness, substance abuse, trauma or long term disabilities. This annual presentation of gifts is led by Rotarian Dr. Noel Howard and his wife, Gladys Howard. Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Foundation supports various projects in the local community related to housing and education.
Dr. Drew Baden, University of Maryland- College Park Physics Department Chair and Professor "The CERN Particle Accelerator and Understanding the Structure and Physical Laws of This Universe"
This Thursday's meeting at Normandie Farm Restaurant is a Club Assembly and Election of Officers for 2016-2017. The discussion will include changes in membership, the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club-sponsored Global Grant application for Nepal, grants for local charitable activities, and election of officers.
Club Assembly and Election of Officers for 2016-2017 on January 7, 2016
Prevention of deafness and promotion of hearing among school children of Nepal: act of kindness by The Rotary Club of Potomac-Bethesda by Dr. Milan Maharjan
"Love and friendship abound in this entry that pays tribute to the service group’s graduates, Peace Scholars, of the Rotary Centers for International Studies in Peace and Conflict Resolution."
Rotary's Rose Parade Float: “Working Together for Peace”
Nancy Mason and Bob Nelson visited the New York City Rotary Club last week located very close to Rockefeller Center's Christmas tree. On the left Nancy and Bob are warmly greeted by Immediate Past District Governor David Del Monte.
Nancy Mason and Bob Nelson Visited the New York City Rotary Club on December 10, 2015
Joint Meeting with the Rockville Rotary Club on December 10, 2015, at the American Tap Room, 36-A Maryland Ave., Rockville (Rockville Town Center) and hear Dr. David Charney, "Psychiatrist To The Spies," speak.
James W. Gilchrist has been a Member of House of Delegates since 2007 and is currently the Deputy Majority Whip. This year he is also serving as the President of the Rockville Rotary Club. Jim was born in Washington, D.C., and attended St. Albans School, Washington, DC; Grinnell College, Grinnell, Iowa, B.A. (english), 1987; The George Washington University, M.B.A., 1993. Research Historian, History Associates, Inc., 1987-91. Chair, Alliance of Rockville Neighborhood Associations, 2003-05. Vice-President, Americana Centre Condominiums, 2004-07. Treasurer, Alliance of Rockville Citizens, 2005-07. Board of Directors, Potomac Area Council, Hostelling International, USA, 2009-; Harry R. Hughes Center for Agro-Ecology, Inc., 2015-.
Guest Speaker State Delegate Jim Gilchrist Will Discuss "Understanding Local and State Government" at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on December 3
"Thank you Rotary Club of Potomac-Bethesda, Maryland, USA for their generous contributions. Also Ear Care Nepal is very grateful to 'The Rotary Club of Kathmandu Mid-town' for their kind support. Thank you all !!!"
Thanks to Potomac-Bethesda Rotary from Ear Care Nepal
Geoff Arnold finished his second season for the Frederick Keys, the Class A Advanced affiliate of the Baltimore Orioles. In this role, he serves as the team’s radio play-by-play announcer, works as the club’s primary liaison to the media and assists with Keys marketing initiatives. Prior to joining the Keys, Arnold spent the previous two seasons as the Assistant Director of Broadcasting and Media Relations for the Wilmington Blue Rocks, the Class A Advanced affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and as the Broadcaster and Media Relations Administrator for the Frisco RoughRiders, the Double-A affiliate of the Texas Rangers. A 2010 graduate of Dickinson College, Arnold began his professional career as a minor league baseball umpire in the Gulf Coast League. Geoff will discuss:
• How minor league baseball and the player development process works
• How are major league and minor league teams run differently
• What a minor league offseason entails for a minor league staff/players
• Keys to the big leagues/what Keys fans can be excited for in 2016
Geoff Arnold from the Frederick Keys will discuss "How Minor League Baseball Works and the Journey to the Big Leagues" at the Rotary Club Meeting on November 19, 2015
President Bob Fuhrman presents the Rotary Cookbook to Rotary District Membership Chair Rich Glover for leading the club discussion on membership growth.
President Bob Fuhrman thanks guest speaker Dr. Dean Pruitt for his talk on International Negotiations. Accompanying Dean was his wife France (Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rotarian) and son Paul. Guests included Benjamin Viray, Ed Feroli and Francine Schwartz.
Rev. Anne Benefield from the Potomac Rotary Club described her experiences at a National Immunization Day in India. Past President Tom Leuchtenburg presented a Rotary Cookbook to Anne for her excellent presentation.
Rev. Anne Benefield, Potomac Rotarian, Reported on Her Trip to India for the National Immunization Day for Polio at the Club Meeting on October 1, 2015
Dean G. Pruitt is Distinguished Scholar in Residence at the Institute for Conflict Analysis and Resolution at George Mason University and SUNY Distinguished Professor Emeritus at the University at Buffalo. He has received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Association for Conflict Management and the Harold D. Lasswell Award for Distinguished Scientific Contribution to Political Psychology from the International Society of Political Psychology. He is author or co-author of Negotiation Behavior,Social Conflict, Negotiation in Social Conflict, Mediation Research, Theory and Research on the Causes of War, and more than 150 articles and chapters.
Dr. Dean Pruitt, recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Association for Conflict Management, will discuss the timely topic, "International Negotiations," at the Rotary Club Meeting on October 8, 2015.
President Bob Fuhrman invited local author Sara Taber Thomas to speak about her book "Born Under an Assumed Name", which is a memoir of her early years. Her dad was a covert CIA agent who tried to run spies into Red China 50 years ago. She periodically lived in Taiwan, Japan, Holland, Bali, and elsewhere "undercover," as it were. Photos by Tom Lewis.
Sara Taber Thomas spoke about her book "Born Under an Assumed Name" at the Rotary Club meeting on September 24, 2015
Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to participate in a National Immunization Day for Polio in India. As a Rotarian, I know the battle against polio has been a long one, but it is one we will win. I’m proud to say that since 1983, when Rotary chose the inoculation of polio as it’s most important project, Rotary has raised $3 Billion for the effort and countless Rotarians have participated in sharing the vaccine.
Rotary began on its own by immunizing the children in two countries ~ Mexico and the Philippines ~ where polio was endemic. Later the World Health Organization and the American Centers for Disease Control joined the effort. National governments have supported the program. Most recently, the Melinda and Bill Gates Foundation has matched the $3 billion raised by Rotarians. It takes a global village to carry off such an ambitious project.
Today polio is active in only three countries: Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Nigeria. In the next few years we hope to make those countries polio free, too. In the meantime, inoculation in India must continue due to travel in and from those countries.
It is taking a global village to stop polio, but that village is composed of many individuals. My trip to India, where I saw first hand the ravages of poverty and disease, was a life-changing experience, because I realized that I, one person, could make a difference. One person can change the world.
On the National Immunization Day, February 22, 2015, 170 million children were vaccinated in India. That is a lot of children and it surely took a global village, but that huge number is made up of lots of individuals distributing those precious drops of vaccine. My team of four Rotarians immunized 199 children that day.
[Rev. Anne Benefield is the Pastor of the Geneva Presbyterian Church in Potomac.]
Rev. Anne Benefield, Potomac Rotarian, Reports on Her Trip to India for the National Immunization Day for Polio at the Club Meeting on October 1, 2015
President Bob Fuhrman invited local author Sara Taber Thomas to speak about her book "Born Under an Assumed Name", which is a memoir of her early years. Her dad was a covert CIA agent who tried to run spies into Red China 50 years ago. She periodically lived in Taiwan, Japan, Holland, Bali, and elsewhere "undercover," as it were. This is partially a story of living as an ex-pat and being somewhat out of step with what would have been a "normal" American experience as a child and teenager.
Sara Taber Thomas to speak about her book "Born Under an Assumed Name" at the Rotary Club meeting on September 24, 2015
LOUIS E. FETTIG,98, Obstetrician-Gynecologist and USAF Captain, affectionately known as "Opa", of Charlotte, NC, formerly of Potomac, MD, died Sunday, August 30, 2015 after a brief illness. Born June 21, 1917 in Phila., PA, he was a son of the late Mr. Louis and Bertha Weiser Fettig. He was a graduate of Penn State University with a major in Chemistry in 1943. Afterwards he graduated in medicine from Hahnemann Medical College in 1947 and University of Pennsylvania Post Graduate School of Medicine in 1952. He was the OB coordinator for the National Institute of Health Cerebral Palsy project at Pennsylvania Hospital from 1959-1964 and director of the OB/GYN outpatient department. In addition, he served on the staffs at George Washington University Medical Center, Washington Hospital Center, Holy Cross Hospital, Doctor's Hospital, Shady Grove Hospital and Washington Adventist in Obstetrics and Gynecology for over 25 years. At George Washington University, Dr. Fettig served as an Associate Clinical Professor in OBGYN in addition to working in private practice. He was drafted as a lieutenant in World War II and served in the Army Medical Corps and later obligated to service as a Captain in the USAF during the Korean War. At that time he was Chief of the OBGYN Department for the Strategic Air Command (SAC) at Ramey Air force Base, Puerto Rico. Dr. Fettig was a 32 degree Mason of the Frankford Lodge No. 292 Free and Accepted Masons of Pennsylvania, a member of the Scottish Rite of Allentown, PA, the National Sojourners, the AMA, the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club, the Penn State Alumni Association and Alpha Chi Sigma- Nu Chapter.
There is no regular Rotary Club meeting on September 17. Instead a social and dinner is being held at the home of Nancy Mason at 5pm on Saturday, September 19. Attire is "country casual" and everyone is invited to arrive early to tour the 165 acre Bluestone Sanctuary with two miles of trails, three ponds stocked with fish, eagles' nest, wild turkey and various farm animals including buffalo. About 50 species of birds inhabit Bluestone Sanctuary bordering the South Branch of the Patapsco River. The catered dinner menu is included on the flyer below. For questions, please call Nancy at 443-803-6547.
Directions:
I-270 North to I-370/MD 200 East
Exit MD 97 North (Georgia Avenue)
Go past I-70 and turn left onto Old Frederick Road
Opposite Roundgate Court turn right onto country road
Follow the signs to Bluestone Sanctuary
[The last mile is unpaved, so vehicles with very low clearance are not recommended.]
Social and Dinner at Bluestone Sanctuary on September 19, 2015
Each month Alex Naron faithfully leads a group of volunteers packing boxes for families needing food in Montgomery County. Join him on the second Tuesday of every month at 7pm at Manna Food Center, 9311 Gaither Rd, Gaithersburg, MD 20877. It really is good exercise!
Rotarians Pack 150 Boxes at Manna Food Center on September 8, 2015
Governor Ken Solow joined the Columbia-Patuxent Rotary Club in September of 1996. He served as Club President in 2001-2002 and won the Donal Lee Chamberlin award for Best Club President. Ken has served District 7620 as Chair or member of the Leadership Training team since 2003. He has been a featured speaker at Chesapeake PETS and other District Conferences. He is a Paul Harris Fellow, a Paul Harris Society Member, and a Major Donor to the Rotary Foundation.
Ken is a founding partner of Pinnacle Advisory Group, Inc., a private wealth management firm serving clients in the Baltimore-Washington area and around the world. Ken currently serves as Chair of Pinnacle’s investment committee, which oversees the management of $1.5 billion of assets for more than 900 families. He is the author of the book, Buy and Hold is Dead (Again), the Case for Active Management in Dangerous Markets.
Ken is married to Linda and resides in Ellicott City, Md. They have a son and a daughter, Danny, who lives and works in Boston, Mass, and Carly recently graduated from U of MD with honors and will be attending grad school for physical therapy at Washington University St. Louis in the Fall.
Rotary District Governor Ken Solow's Official Club Visit on September 3, 2015
This Thursday, August 27, 2015, President Bob and Nan Fuhrman are graciously hosting a social and dinner at their home. Please address your RSVP to Bob by email at bob_fuhrman@msn.com or leave a phone message at 301-770-9400 (Bob's office no.) or at 301-648-8159 (his cell phone) by Wednesday evening.
Next week Rotary District Governor Ken Solow will make his official club visit.
President Bob Fuhrman Invites Members and Guests to a Social and Dinner at his home on Thursday, August 27, 2015
Dr. Allen Barwick was a Physics Teacher at Woodrow Wilson High School in Washington, D.C., from 1966 to 1999, and taught Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club President Bob Fuhrman. At Woodrow Wilson he taught Physics, Geology, Advanced-Placement Physics, Electronics, Filmmaking, Calculus, Trigonometry, Algebra, Plane Geometry, Art, Programming, and Engineering. Allen was also Adjunct Physics Professor, The American University in Washington, D.C., from 1978 to 1987 where he taught courses from Physics with or without Calculus, Acoustics, Light, Art, Astronomy, up through Preparing for the Doctoral Qualifying Physics Exam. His Rotary Club meeting topic is "Cosmology," the science of the origin and development of the universe.
Dr. Allen Barwick will discuss "Cosmology" at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club meeting on August 20, 2015
The August 6, 2015, Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club meeting featured Tausi Suedi, Co-founder and Country Team Leader of Childbirth Survival International (CSI). CSI’s work focuses on reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health in hard-to-reach areas. Tausi holds an MPH from George Washington University (2005), speaks four languages, and is passionate about the health and well-being of women, newborns, children under five years old, adolescents/youth, and the elderly especially in marginalized communities. Special guests included District Governor Nominee Greg Wims, Potomac Rotary Club Past Presidents Janis Brose and Rev. Anne Benefield. [Below] Rotary Club President Bob Fuhrman presented Tausi with a Rotary Cookbook.
Join us to listen to Tausi Suedi, an active Rotarian, Public Relations Officer, and President-elect from Pikesville-Owings Mills Rotary Club. Tausi is also the Co-founder and Country Team Leader of Childbirth Survival International (CSI), an international non-profit dedicated to improve and strengthen quality, access, and delivery of health services & information for vulnerable populations in marginalized communities. CSI’s work focuses on reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health in hard-to-reach areas. Tausi holds an MPH from George Washington University (2005), speaks four languages, and is passionate about the health and well-being of women, newborns, children under five years old, adolescents/youth, and the elderly especially in marginalized communities.
August 6 Rotary Club Meeting Features Tausi Suedi, Rotarian, Co-founder and Country Team Leader of Childbirth Survival International
No meeting at Normandie Farm This Week: We're Going to the Bethesda Big Train Baseball Game!
By Wednesday night, please send me a note (at bob_fuhrman@msn.com) so I will know whether you are planning to attend the baseball game this Thursday at Shirley Povich Field. See below:
I look forward to seeing you at the Shirley Povich Baseball stadium at 6:30 p.m. on July 30. I have been told that we will not need to reserve tickets. So on the 30th, please buy your own ticket at the door ($9). Tom Lewis, our new Club Treasurer will provide you with an envelope containing $24, which will give you plenty of money to spend on hot dogs, hamburgers, soft drinks, chips, etc. The stadium is not so big that you won't have difficulty finding your fellow Rotarians. That's the plan.
"The goal of the Dictionary Project is to assist all students in becoming good writers, active readers, creative thinkers, and resourceful learners by providing them with their own personal dictionary. The dictionaries are a gift to each student to use at school and at home for years to come. Educators see third grade as the dividing line between learning to read and reading to learn, so Rotary Clubs including Potomac-Bethesda give dictionaries each year to children in the third grade."
Governor Ken Solow Appoints Nancy Mason as Rotary District Dictionary Project Chair
At the Rotary Club meeting on July 16, 2015 the topic was "Surplus Food Distribution to Needy Families in Montgomery County" with guests Brett Meyers (Founder, Nourish Now) and Jack Bell.
This week's emphasis is on food for the needy. On Tuesday evening at 7pm Potomac-Bethesda Rotarians pack nearly 200 boxes of food at Manna Food Center for needy families. At the Rotary Club meeting on Thursday evening the topic is "Surplus Food Distribution to Needy Families in Montgomery County" with guests Brett Meyers (Founder, Nourish Now) and Jack Bell presenting.
Tuesday: Manna Food Packing Night; Thursday Meeting: "Surplus Food Distribution to Needy Families in Montgomery County"
Bruce Fowler is a Rotarian from the North Bethesda Rotary Club who presented an innovative approach to providing transportation for disabled individuals to get to jobs and job interviews where public transit is not readily available. His Rotary Club has partnered with Barwood Taxi and Cornerstone Montgomery and is already reporting very successful results. President Bob Fuhrman thanked Bruce for his presentation with a Rotary Cookbook.
Bruce Fowler presented a program transporting disabled persons to their jobs at the P-B Rotary Club meeting on July 9, 2015
Yes, I am at home. On June 23 I had a procedure at Sibley known as ERCP to remove two large gallstones from my common bile duct. I was released from Sibley on June 25, in time to attend my daughter's wedding over the weekend of June 27 in the Inner Harbor, Baltimore. Spectacular wedding. On July 2, I was re-admitted to Sibley for removal of my gallbladder -- laparoscopic surgery. I'm recovering nicely but expect to be at home for at least another 3 or 4 days. Feel free to share with the Rotary Club.
[Left] Thursday's guest speaker, Bruce Fowler, has a B.S. degree in Fisheries (Marine Biology) from the University of Washington in 1968 and a Ph.D. in Pathology from the University of Oregon Medical School in 1972. He was a staff scientist at the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences from 1972 until 1987 when he became Director of the University of Maryland System -wide Program in Toxicology and Professor at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. From 2002 to 2003, he served as a Senior Research Advisor to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Diseases Registry (ATSDR) in the Division of Toxicology and from 2003 to 2011, he was the Associate Director for Science in the Division of Toxicology and Environmental Medicine at ATSDR as a Title 42 Distinguished Consultant. He was a Senior Fellow/Expert Consultant at ICF International from 2011-2014 and is currently a private consultant and Adjunct Professor, Emory School of Public Health and Presidents Professor of Biomedical Science and the University of Alaska- Fairbanks. Dr. Fowler, who is an internationally recognized expert on the toxicology of metals has served on a number of State, National and International Committees in his areas of expertise. [Right] Alex Naron leads the box packing at the Manna Food Center at 7pm on Tuesday, July 14. With summer vacations, he can really use your help this month.
Upcoming Meeting July 9 and Manna Food Packing Night July 14, 2015
Our guest speaker on June 18, 2015, was Erica Siebrasse, PhD, Education and Professional Development Manager, American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Erica talked to us about “Virus Hunting 101: Searching For New Viruses.”
Doris Ligon is the founder of the African Art Museum of Maryland as the first Museum in the planned community of Columbia Maryland. It is one of only three museums of its kind in the USA devoted exclusively to the art of Africa. Since its inception in 1980, AAMM has presented for viewing pleasure, in its location and at outreach events, astounding works of the highest quality including contemporary, intercontinentally known, stellar artists, held in the highest esteem. Photos by Monica Farmer.
June 4 Guest Speaker Doris Ligon, Founder of the African Art Museum of Maryland
President Elect Bob Fuhrman exchanges Rotary banners with Misa Azuma, a Rotary International Scholar at Georgetown University Law Center. She focused on subjects on international human rights during her L.L.M. studies and has participated in extra-curricula activities related to human rights, specifically refugee/ immigration law such as assisting refugee applications and working with immigrants seeking status. She is planning to work in an international organization on human rights.
Jarrod Borkat is a 15‐year veteran in the biopharmaceutical industry. He currently serves as MedImmune's Senior Director, External Partnerships & Collaborations. In this role he is responsible for establishing and overseeing broad scale collaborations with universities, non‐profit organizations and government entities, across all the therapeutic areas relevant to MedImmune. MedImmune was founded in 1988 in Gaithersburg and now has a global presence with 2,500 people in the US and UK.
Jarrod Borkat is a 15‐year veteran in the biopharmaceutical industry. He currently serves as MedImmune's Senior Director, External Partnerships & Collaborations. In this role he is responsible for establishing and overseeing broad scale collaborations with universities, non‐profit organizations and government entities, across all the therapeutic areas relevant to MedImmune. MedImmune was founded in 1988 in Gaithersburg and now has a global presence with 2,500 people in the US and UK.
May 14 Guest Speaker Jarrod Borkat Leads Medimmune's External Partnerships and Collaborations
Guest speaker Richard Kreutzberg is writing a book aimed at solving the root cause of the problems of disadvantaged kids - illustrated dramatically by the events in Baltimore this month. The solution is to offer these kids a needs driven curriculum in school rather than the present one-size-fits-all pre-college curriculum that has little to do with furnishing the tools they need to succeed in life and the world of work.
The Fix Up Project will take place on Saturday morning, May 2nd, starting at 9:00 a.m. at 12715 Saddlebrook Place, Silver Spring. Bring your work gloves and garden tools. Juan Carlos and his crew are doing the interior painting. The rest of us will work outside. We will be needed outside for landscape work, most of which is in the back yard. Bring gloves and whatever landscape tools you have, i.e. rakes, shovels, trowels, etc. I will be making a pizza run around lunchtime. Bring your spouses, kids, grandparents, neighbors, and whoever else you care to bring along. We will start around 9:00 a.m. and leave when we are done. See you on May 2nd. Click here for directions and registration.
Rotarians to Beautify Group Home on Saturday, May 2
Rotary International Scholars [L-R] Misa Azuma (Japan), Will Todman (England), Jun Sugihara (Japan) and Alessia Thiebaud (Italy) spoke at the 35th Annual Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club's International Night hosted by the Bretton Woods Recreation Center. Governor Bill Fine, President Caesar Kavadoy, President Elect Bob Fuhrman, International Night Chair Melanie Weerakoon, MCs Art Blitz and Judd Gould and Silent Auction Announcers Chinyere Amaeule and Monica Farmer highlighted the evening.
Ms. Teresa You is a reporter for the Epoch Times. The Epoch Times is an independent medium that publishes in 21 languages in 35 countries, and reports uncensored news about China. Teresa has covered greater DC local news, U.S.-China relationships, international & Asia issues, human right issues, etc. Teresa is passionate about the arts, music, history and culture, particularly traditional Chinese culture and classical performing arts. Originally coming from China, Teresa is dedicated to bridging the gap between East and West. She actively serves communities by performing a traditional Chinese instrument at various occasions in the community. Teresa has a B.S. in psychology from The Ohio State University, and did graduate study in School of Education of the College of William & Mary at Williamsburg, VA before joining the Epoch Times.
Teresa You Presents "The Essence and Renaissance of Traditional Chinese Culture" at the Rotary Club Meeting on April 9, 2015
Larry A. Bowers is serving as Interim Superintendent of Schools until June 30, 2015. Mr. Bowers has worked for Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) for 37 years and has served in a variety of leadership positions for the past two decades. This is a joint meeting with the Rockville Rotary Club and will be held at Bretton Woods Recreation Center.
Acting Superintendent of Schools to Speak at Rotary Club Meeting on March 26, 2015
Michelle Thaller is an astronomer and research scientist. She is the Assistant Director for Science Communication and Higher Education, Sciences and Exploration Directorate at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. From 1998 to 2009 she was a staff scientist at the Infrared Processing and Analysis Center, and later Manager of the Education and Public Outreach program for the Spitzer Space Telescope, at the California Institute of Technology. Michelle has been one of the most popular speakers at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club and we welcome her back for an update on NASA and space. Please invite guests!
March 19 Meeting Features Space Update from NASA's Dr. Michelle Thaller, Assistant Director, Sciences and Exploration Directorate, Goddard Space Flight Center
Past President Tom Leuchtenburg with Caroline Taylor, Executive Director, Montgomery Countryside Alliance, and Ellen Letourneau, Outreach/Volunteer Coordinator. Caroline presented her excellent 30-minute video on Montgomery County's Agriculture Reserve featuring some members of the farming community. The video is available on DVD.
Caroline Taylor Presented "Growing Legacy", her film on Montgomery County's Agriculture Reserve on February 19, 2015
February 5 was windy and bitterly cold, but Potomac-Bethesda Rotarians brought warmth and Valentine's cheer to homeless women at Sophia House in Rockville. Unfortunately the big smiles on the faces of the homeless women had to be blocked out due to privacy concerns.
Rotarians Enjoy Dinner at Far East Restaurant and Present Scarves to Homeless Women at Sophia House on February 5, 2015
There were only four volunteers at the Manna Food Center on February 10, 2015, but they were able to pack 192 boxes of food in two and a half hours. Thanks very much to [L-R] Tom Lewis, Alex Naron, Bob Nelson and Brian (not shown). Please mark your calendar for Tuesday, March 10, at 7pm and plan to come to help at Manna next month.
Rotarians Pack 192 Boxes at Manna Food Center on February 10, 2015
Nineteen Rotarians and guests braved icy conditions to attend the social on January 29. Guests included Steven Grant and new first-time guests Erica Siebrasse, David Hilbert and Jan Casadae.
Rotary Club Social at Bretton Woods on January 29, 2015
On February 5 the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club is having dinner at the Far East Restaurant at 5:45pm because we have to eat and be at Sophia House prior to 7:15 p.m. The timing of the dinner was set so early because (Chinese) restaurants in Rockville tend to be very busy around dinner time and we want to eat and leave to regroup at Sophia House by by 7 p.m. if not sooner. The address of the Restaurant is 5055 Nicholson Lane, Rockville, MD 20852.
For about the past 6 years, the Rotary Club of Potomac-Bethesda has supported Sophia House residents with occasional dinners and a unique program which, additionally, provides Valentine gifts--the most popular of which continues to be shawls known as Pashminas. The Pashmina's cost about $8-$10 each, thereby requiring the Club to raise about $300 for this year's gift presentation on Thursday, February 5, 2015 at 7:15 pm. Contributions in any amount will be greatly appreciated. For additional information or to donate please visit pbrotary.org/Page/sophia-house. If you wish to donate by check or contact us please click here. Thank you for your support.
We now have a page which serves as a launching point to our club’s Foundation. Check it out at http://pbrotary.org/Page/our-foundation. You can get to it in three ways from our home page (www.pbrotary.org) : Look for “Foundation” located on the banner or under the menu choices “About Us” or “Services/Projects”. Besides evolving content and links to internal and external resources, on that page we can now accept online donations for everything we do.
Here is a very easy way to help us with fundraising. If you are an Amazon shopper please bookmark this link http://pbrotary.org/Page/amazon in your browser and ask your friends and family to do the same. Whenever you start your Amazon shopping from this page the club gets a percentage. See the link above for details. You can also get to it from our website banner at http://pbrotary.org.
Intense leadership-training program that is designed to recognize, encourage, and further develop the leadership skills of 18-30 year olds who have shown a potential for rendering important service to their local communities.
The conference is attended by Rotaractors from all over the world and consists of gaining understanding of the United States Government, leadership workshops, social and cultural activities, and discussion of Rotaract service projects .
The Rotary Club of Potomac-Bethesda strives to sponsor a Rotaractor each year (July) from the Metro DC area to attend RYLA.
We feel the responsibility to take on causes that range from international to local. Some are club level commitments whereas others are championed by our members and the club supports those causes as much as possible. Feel free to explore what we do through the list on the left.
We collect and disburse donated funds through our foundation (Rotary Club of Potomac-Bethesda Foundation), a 501c organization. Therefore, contributions to the Foundation are tax deductible.
If you have any questions or comments please click here to contact our foundation chair.
RYLA stands for Rotary Youth Leadership Awards. It is held every February in the D.C. area and its geared toward area high school students. The Rotary Club of Potomac-Bethesda strives to sponsor a student each year from Montgomery County to attend RYLA.
RYLA aims to teach youth to be an effective leader including:
Fundamentals of leadership
Ethics of positive leadership
Building self-esteem and self confidence
Importance of communication skills in effective leadership
Rotary's purpose of service to the community and world
President Caesar Kavadoy thanks Nabil Bedewi for all the hard work to implement the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club website featuring new capabilities to assist in Club fundraising.
RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) is an intense 3-day, 2 night leadership training high school students who have shown a potential for rendering important service to their schools and communities. More than 150 high school students attended RYLA last year. Participants are nominated by local Rotary clubs and for these high school students, this recognition offers the opportunity to build self-confidence, gain exposure to a variety of issues and people, meet active community leaders, and learn valuable information and career skills. We need to raise $300 to send one high school student to this leadership training coming up in February. For more information or to donate online, please visit pbrotary.org/Page/ryla-interact. If you wish to donate by check or contact us please click here. Thank you for your support.
Guest Speaker Billy Painter invited everyone to come to the Washington Auto Show and 19 have responded affirmatively. The Auto Technician Development Program trains high school students by having them work at a licensed car dealership. ADEI Tech Development is currently offered at Montgomery College in Rockville and Marshall Academy in Falls Church.
President Caesar Kavadoy congratulates Rotary Scholar Will Todman for his presentation at the meeting on January 8, 2015. Will is from a very small village in England, and graduated from Oxford last summer where he studied Arabic and Modern Hebrew. He's now doing an MA in Arab Studies at the School of Foreign Service at Georgetown, with a focus on Middle East politics and humanitarian emergencies. He's currently working part time for an advisor to the UN's Special Envoy to Syria too. He talked a about where he's from in England, a bit about Oxford, and then about what he has been doing at Georgetown so far. Last month he traveled to north Jordan with one of his professors to help her with her research with Syrian refugees.
Since its founding in 1917, WANADA's primary mission has been to represent and promote the retail automobile business in the Washington Metropolitan area. The Auto Technician Development Program of WANADA’s Automobile Dealer Education Institute (ADEI) has earned a five-year renewal of its Master Automobile Service Technology Accreditation. That is the highest level of achievement recognized by the National Automotive Technician Education Foundation (NATEF), the educational arm of ASE, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. “It’s quite an accomplishment,” says Steve Boden WANADA’s educational curriculum advisor on ADEI programing who is also executive vice president of the Automotive Trades Foundation. ATF is the partnership between Montgomery County Public Schools and the local business community, including WANADA, that trains high school students by having them man a licensed used-car dealership. ADEI Tech Development is currently offered at Montgomery College in Rockville and Marshall Academy in Falls Church.
Billy Painter, WANADA, Will Speak about ADEI Automobile Technician Training at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club meeting on January 15, 2015
Alex Naron leads Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club's Manna Food Center Box Packing nights. He needs more volunteers on the second Tuesday of each month. The next Manna Food Center Box Packing Night is February 10 at 7pm.
Sophia House is part of the Wilkins Avenue Women's Assessment Center in Kensington, Maryland and is operated by Interfaith Works. Not only does it provide emergency shelter and 3 meals a day for 30-35 single homeless adult women, but also a program of self-esteem and skill building counseling. Case managers provide clinical assessments and connect women with housing, medical, mental health and social services that enable them to work toward self-sufficiency. The Rotary Club of Potomac Bethesda supports the shelter in the form of periodic dinners and gifts for the ladies on special occasions.
Rotarians at the Green Road Project service project on December 13. Members of the Rotary Club of Dupont Circle and North Bethesda joined our club in clearing debris; removing trash, brush, and vines; and cleaning up a streambed on the campus of what was formerly known as just the site of Bethesda Naval Hospital. The purpose of this activity is to facilitate the “Green Road Project,” which seeks to upgrade natural environments to optimize nontraditional healing for Wounded Warriors and their families at the new National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, MD.
The mission of the Green Road is to create opportunities for behavioral health and rehabilitative healing utilizing a combination of natural and manmade elements, including the development of a wheel chair accessible walking path and a central zone of active and passive activity, gardens, and commemorative spaces. The master plan incorporates a 3/8-mile long streambed and adjacent woodlands. The Project will provide a convenient connection between lodging facilities for Wounded Warriors and their families and other parts of the campus where more traditional types of care and rehabilitative services are provided.
Will Todman is from a very small village in England, and graduated from Oxford last summer where he studied Arabic and Modern Hebrew. He's now doing an MA in Arab Studies at the School of Foreign Service at Georgetown, with a focus on Middle East politics and humanitarian emergencies. He's currently working part time for an advisor to the UN's Special Envoy to Syria too. He'll talk a little about where he's from in England, a bit about Oxford, and then about what he has been doing at Georgetown so far. Last month he traveled to north Jordan with one of his professors to help her with her research with Syrian refugees.
Rotary Scholar Will Todman to Speak About Arab Studies at Georgetown and Trip to Jordan at Rotary Club Meeting on January 8, 2015
If you shop at Amazon through this link http://smile.amazon.com/ch/52-1264058, Amazon will donate 0.5% of your eligible purchases (millions of products) to the charitable foundation of our club.
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When you start shopping at Amazon from searches and other widgets throughout our website, you will be taken to Amazon's website, however, we will get a "%" or fixed amount of your purchase. 100% of what we receive from Amazon will go towards our different charitable projects and services. If you would like to see what we would potentially receive by category please see this Amazon link. Amazon does provide us reports of what was purchased, HOWEVER, we do not receive any information about the buyer.
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The Rotary Club of Potomac-Bethesda Foundation is a 501c therefore your donations are tax deductible as applicable by US Federal Law and the laws of your respective State/Jurisdiction.
If you shop at Amazon through this link http://smile.amazon.com/ch/52-1264058, Amazon will donate 0.5% of your eligible purchases (millions of products) to the charitable foundation of our club. Thank You!
Rotarians Juan Carlos Peirano and Jason Hamel with their wives Heidi and Sarah at the Christmas Party hosted at the home of Nancy Szlasa on December 13, 2014. Rotarians from three clubs attended.
President-Elect Bob Fuhrman, Dr. Margaret "Muggy Do" Dickinson, and President Caesar Kavadoy. Dr. Do is the founder of the Performing Arts of Music at the Art and Drama Therapy Institute, Inc. (ADTI). ADTI's mission is to offer its Individuals with Differing Abilities (Intellectual Disabilities) opportunities to maximize their self-esteem, dignity and independence.
Thanks very much to Alex Naron and his team for packing 200 boxes at the Manna Food Center. Founded in 1983, Manna strives to end hunger in Montgomery County through education, advocacy, and food distribution. Manna provided food to 5% of Montgomery County residents facing the hardship of hunger this past year. Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club has been packing food boxes monthly at Manna since 1986.
President Elect Bob Fuhrman thanks guest speaker Alex Kronemer, CEO of Unity Productions Foundation, for his presentation. Since 1999 UPF has produced 9 nationally broadcast films for PBS and one full-length film for theatrical release viewed by an estimated 150 million people worldwide and have won dozens of national awards.
Bob Nelson and Nancy Szlasa served on the Executive Committee at the Rotary Institute at the Grove Park Inn in Asheville, NC, during the week of November 17. Over 500 Rotarians (future, current and past governors) from 35 countries attended. [Left] Nancy and Bob visited the Biltmore Estate which was decorated for the holidays and [Right] Bob presented a resolution that was approved by the attendees of the Institute.Nancy greeted attendees and encouraged them to sponsor gift dolls for children at the local hospital.
Rotary Institute in Asheville, NC: Bob Nelson Served as Operations Chair
Alex Kronemer is CEO of Unity Productions Foundation. He is an internationally known speaker and has published numerous articles in newspapers and journals in the US and abroad, including The Washington Post, Christian Science Monitor, the Huffington Post and in syndication in international publications as widespread as the UK, Indonesia, Egypt, and Pakistan. Since 1999 UPF has produced 9 nationally broadcast films for PBS and one full-length film for theatrical release. UPF films have been viewed by an estimated 150 million people worldwide and have won dozens of national awards. Since 2008, group discussions have been launched engaging more than 80,000 participants. A graduate of Harvard Divinity School, Alex Kronemer previously served in the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Human Rights and was one of the founding staff members who helped establish the U.S. Institute of Peace. He has won numerous awards for his work in promoting peace and interfaith understanding. [www.upf.tv]
"Working For Peace Through the Media" is December 4 Meeting Topic
President Caesar Kavadoy presents Rotary Cookbooks to Justin Saltzman, Frederick Rotarian, and Clarissa Linton Harris, President of the Dupont Circle Rotary Club, for their presentation on the Rotary Young Professionals Summit held last September.
Lessons Learned at the 2014 Rotary Young Professionals Summit
By Clarissa Harris and Justin Saltzman
This past September, through an exceptionally generous million-dollar gift from 2 anonymous Rotarians, Rotary International brought 32 Rotarians under age 40 from across the US together in Chicago for an inspirational weekend. We had the opportunity to discuss what’s working and what’s not in Rotary - and how to make the organization that means so much to us more attractive to young professionals.
Clarissa Linton Harris, President of the Dupont Circle Rotary Club, and Justin Saltzman, Frederick Rotarian, to Speak on November 13
President Caesar Kavadoy presented a Rotary cookbook to Laurie Savage of Savage-Acres Farm after her talk on Dairy Farming in Maryland and Her Family's Dairy Farm.
Laurie Savage of Savage-Acres Farm featured on October 30th meeting
Dr. Frederick Foote (CAPT, MC, USN, Ret.) is project manager for the Green Road and director of the Epidaurus Project, which has developed numerous holistic medicine programs at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda (WRB) from 2000-2014. He is also Adjunct Associate Professor of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics at the Uniformed Services University (USUHS), Bethesda, and Institute Scholar at the Institute for Integrative Health (TIIH), Baltimore.
October 9: "The Green Road Project: Healing Wounded Warriors through Art and Nature
President Caesar Kavadoy thanks the CEO of Interfaith Works, Shane Rock, for his presentation on "Ending Homelessness in Montgomery County." Shane came onboard Interfaith Works on July 21, 2014, and was formerly a member of the Ballard, Washington, Rotary Club.
Interfaith Works' CEO Shane Rock Speaks on Ending Homelessness in Montgomery County on October 2
Alex Naron leads the Manna Food Center box packing night with[above]Yolanda Cunnane, Nihad Kaibni, Nancy Szlasa, [below] Swapna Santhanam, Hari Viswanathan, Tom Lewis and [not pictured] Bob Nelson. Thanks so much to all our Rotarian volunteers as the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club begins the 29th year packing food boxes at the Manna Food Center.
Rotarians Pack Food Boxes at Manna Food Center on September 9
This year’s annual ROTARY DAY event will be held at Gallaudet University on Tuesday, September 30th. As is our custom, ten Gallaudet students have been chosen by the district’s Gallaudet Scholarship Committee to each receive a scholarship award.
Since the program’s inception in the mid-1970s, District 7620 clubs have consistently partnered with Gallaudet University to provide deserving deaf students with much needed financial support. To date, District 7620 and its clubs have awarded more than 270 scholarships.
ROTARY DAY 2014 will include an optional campus tour for those interested followed by an awards luncheon. The tour begins at 10:45 am and ends at 11:30 am. Registration for the awards luncheon will begin at 11:30 am at the Ole Jim Alumni House located on the Gallaudet campus.
The luncheon will begin promptly at 12:00 pm and concludes at 2:00 pm. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about Gallaudet, the world’s only liberal arts institution specifically designed for deaf and hard of hearing students, meet past and present Gallaudet students, enjoy an amazing performance by the Gallaudet Dance Company and enjoy a luncheon including a keynote address by Gallaudet leaders.
Gallaudet University is located at 800 Florida Avenue, NE in Washington, D.C. (just a few blocks east of New York Avenue on Florida Avenue). Parking is available in Gallaudet’s on-campus parking garage.
Preregistration is required for ROTARY DAY. This year’s attendees may register by sending an email to rotary2014@gallaudet.edu or by calling the Development Office at (202) 448-7414. It is important that all individuals and clubs pre-register so that we have an accurate head-count for the awards luncheon. Please submit your preregistration no later than September 20th. We welcome individual and group pre-registrations. Be sure to include the number and names of members expected to attend.
We thank you for your continued support and we look forward to celebrating ROTARY DAY 2014 with you on September 30th!
Monday, September 22nd, 2014
Registration at 5:30pm
Dinner/Seminar promptly at 6:00pm-9pm FREE but you DO need to register Holiday Inn Laurel West, 15101 Sweitzer Lane, Laurel, MD
The Rotary Club of St. Albans, WV in District 7550 can use our votes.
The St. Albans Rotary club recently entered into a contest sponsored by Ford. They were asked to produce a video showcasing the Ford Transit Connect and how it could benefit serving our community. They have made it to the FINAL FOUR. Please go to https://drive4urcommunity.com/contest to vote. The club’s video is third from the left and is titled "Wagon Wheel Connect Us". Voting ends Sunday September 14th at 11:59 PM.
Ford is only accepting one vote per email address, so please spread the word! If the club wins they are donating the vehicle to their local Salvation Army in St. Albans, WV for use in their Boys & Girls Club activities, as well as other services the Salvation Army provides to the community.Out of the four finalists, the club’s video is the only one produced by a Rotary club.For updates and more info about the St. Albans club, check out their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/StAlbansRotary.
We need ALL ROTARIANS from Zone 33 to take a moment and vote for the club!
Yours in Rotary,
Anne Matthews
Past RI Vice President
St. Albans Rotary Drive 4 UR Community Video Challenge
President Caesar gives Rotary Cookbooks to Past District Governors Claude Morissette and Andy Baum. PDG Andy is the Chair of the District Humanitarian Grants Committee and PDG Claude is District Rotary Foundation Chair.
PDG Andy Baum Provides Grant Training at August 21 Meeting
August 28 6:30pm Social at Bretton Woods Recreation Center
September 4 6:30pm Meeting at Normandie Farm Restaurant; Laurie Savage, Savage Acres Farm, "Dairy Farming in Maryland"
September 9 7pm Food Box Packing Service Project at Manna Food Center, Gaithersburg
September 11 6:30pm Meeting at Normandie Farm Restaurant; Alex Brown and Melanie Weerakoon, New Member Classification Talks
September 18 6:30pm Meeting at Normandie Farm Restaurant; Rotary District Governor Bill Fine
September 25 6:30pm Social at Bretton Woods Recreation Center
October 2 6:30pm Meeting at Normandie Farm Restaurant; Shane Rock, CEO, Interfaith Works
October 9 6:30pm Meeting at Normandie Farm Restaurant; Dr. Fred Foote and Jim Lawrence, "The Green Road Project: Healing Wounded Warriors through Art and Nature"
We are less than one month away from the first of our five Rotary Leadership Institutes (RLI) for this coming Rotary year. We had a great restart on our District RLI seminar program with nearly 100 Rotarians completing Part I, increased our faculty by 8 and had our entire DG Team graduate. We have 5 seminar Saturdays established in various locations of the District for you to choose from. If desired, you will be able to complete all three Parts in this single year. Details and sign up can be found at www.rli33.org. Please type this URL into your search engine if you do not get directed to the home page of Zone 33 RLI on first attempt. I have attached more detail on the attachment for schedule and registration.
What is a RLI you ask? The seminars referred to above are a series of seminars to familiarize new and long time Rotarians with all the workings of Rotary. The attached front page of the current brochure has a brief description of the seminars. More detail can be found at the Zone 33 RLI website, www.rli33.org. The break out of the various modules that are covered in the seminar series are shown in the three spirals graphic on the attachment. Basically, Part I is about the Rotarian, Part II covers Rotary at the Club Level and Part III covers Rotary at the Zone and International level. Most new Rotarians see Rotary through the eyes of their sponsor and their club. RLI is a great way of providing exposure to the local and world views of Rotary as one attends the three Parts in series. One great attribute of the series is the interaction of Rotarians from other clubs to exchange ideas and bring the best of the best back to your home club. These three seminars provide an opportunity for your new members to learn from members of other clubs what they are getting from Rotary.
There are two mini-RLIs this year which focus on Part I only and are set up to get your additional support because there is a financial incentive to clubs if they participate. If a club has 4 members registered and they attend, then Zone 33 RLI will reimburse the club for one of those 4. District 7620 has in its budget to fund one of the 4 as well - for a second attendee of the 4 to be reimbursed. Four for the price of two! We will be able to take up to 8 clubs in each of these mini-RLIs. We also will take individuals since we have room for individuals to attend at each of these sessions. We also will take walk-ins but the fewer the better. Signup – the sooner the better!
The cost is $95 per attendee. However, for the mini-RLIs, if 4 attend, then the cost to the club drops to $190 per club. I really would appreciate it if you would consider attending. If you have difficulty with the sign up please send a return email to me and I will help you with registration. Start time is 8:30 AM, end time is 4 PM, and we provide for breakfast, lunch and breaks throughout the day.
There is a lot of talent in the facilitators of these seminars and there is financial incentives for getting started in the mini-RLIs. Please give these seminars strong consideration in your Rotary activities this coming year.
Dear Friends,
After a period of long illness, Esther's beloved mother passed away at 1 a.m. this morning. Susana Wong departed with Esther on her side. Esther and I take the opportunity to thank you for asking about Esther's whereabouts in Peru and in particular for her mother's condition.
Kind Regards,
Caesar
President Caesar Kavadoy and guest speaker Mike Nardolilli, President of the C&O Canal Trust, the official non-profit partner of the C&O Canal National Historical Park.
By Patrick DeLeonibus, Director of Hospitality, Rotary Club of Federal City (Washington, DC) USA
As you know we will be hosting RI President Gary Huang at the RYLA Opening Ceremonies and everyone is invited to attend. Please pass along this information to your club members as this is your last chance to register. August 3rd is right around the corner and we will not be allowing sales at the door. Last day to register is July 31st.
RYLA Opening Ceremonies with RI President Gary Huang!
We have the distinct honor to host Rotary International President Gary Huang in our area. RI President Gary Huang will be speaking during the Opening Ceremonies of the 2014 RYLA North America Conference on Sunday, August 3 at 10am at 4-H Conference Center in Chevy Chase, Maryland.
Join over 250+ Rotaractors and RYLArians representing 40+ countries and territories from around the world in District 7620.
Keynote Speaker : Rotary International President Gary Huang.
Tickets are $35.00 per person which includes lunch with RI President Gary Huang and an opportunity to meet Rotaractors and RYLArians from over 40 nations.
To purchase your ticket, please go to www.rylanad7620.com<http://www.rylanad7620.com/> and click on "Opening Ceremonies Registration" or Click the Link below.
Interested in showcasing your Rotary Club, Rotary Club project or organization during the RYLA North America Expo and Rotary Fair to RI President Gary Huang and conference delegates, reserve your table now for $25.00. To reserve your table, please go to our website and click on "Rotary Fair." or Click the Link below.
Program:-
9:30am : Registration and Arrival of guests.
10:00am - 12:00pm : Opening Ceremonies, Roll Call of Countries, Welcome Remarks Keynote Address and Entertainment.
12:00pm - 2:30pm : RYLA North America Expo, Rotary Fair and Lunch.
Space is filling up fast and we are unable to sell tickets for the Opening Ceremonies Registration and Rotary Fair on August 3. Last day to register is on July 31. We will close registration early once as all spaces get filled.
**Parking, free parking is available at the 4-H Conference Center in Chevy Chase.
RYLA North America is in its 6th year and to know more about our conference, please visit our website at www.rylanad7620.com<http://www.rylanad7620.com/>
Please spread the word to others in your clubs and for further information, please do not hesitate to contact Patrick DeLeonibus at patrick@rylanad7620.com<mailto:patrick@rylanad7620.com> or at 443-223-8340<tel:443-223-8340>.
We hope to see you there.
Patrick DeLeonibus
Director of Hospitality
Rotary Club of Federal City (Washington, DC) USA
Hear RI President Gary Huang speak on August 3rd Spaces are filling up fast! REGISTER NOW!
President Caesar Kavadoy, along with District Governor Bill Fine, Clarksville Rotary Club President Mike Smith and Immediate Past District Governor Peter Kyle at Nancy Szlasa's Bluestone Sanctuary checking out the ice pig luge that cools your favorite drink in a matter of seconds. Nancy received a plaque from Governor Peter Kyle in thanks for her six years of service as Assistant Governor over the clubs in Howard County.
Guest Speaker Daniel Hoffman, Chief Innovation Officer, Montgomery County, spoke about "Innovations for County Government." President Caesar Kavadoy presented him with a Rotary Cookbook.
Montgomery's Chief Innovation Officer at July 10 Meeting
2013-14 Rotary Club President Tom Leuchtenburg passing the gavel to 2014-15 President Caesar Kavadoy. Cindy and Lucy Leuchtenburg. Rotarian of the Year Trophy was presented to Bob Fuhrman from President Tom and Jason Hamel. Phil Meade, Bob Nelson, President Caesar Kavadoy, Immediate Past President Tom Leuchtenburg and President Elect Bob Fuhrman. Nabil Bedewi and Guest Tom Lewis. Banner exchange with visiting Rotarian Anita Puri Mohindra from the Rotary Club of Mussoorie, India. Gladys Howard, Nan and Bob Fuhrman. Chinyere Amaefule, Esther Kavadoy and Agatha Patrick, Caesar Jr.'s Mother-in-Law.
Melanie Weerakoon, Noel Howard and Bob Nelson. Nancy Szlasa and Anita Puri Mohindra.
The RYLA Conference in North America is an intense leadership training program that is designed to recognize, encourage, and further develop the leadership skills of 18-30 year olds who have shown a potential for rendering important service to their local communities.
All Rotaractors, non-Rotaractors, RYLA alumni, former Youth Study Exchange, former Group Study Exchange alumni, former Ambassadorial Scholar alumni, former Interactors and former Peace Scholars between the ages of 18-30 can participate in this conference. The 2014 RYLA Conference in North America will be the 6th annual conference held in our region. The conference will be in Washington, DC, USA and will be from Saturday, August 2, 2014 and will end on Wednesday, August 6, 2014.
The RYLA Conference in North America is a combination of International RYLA, Rotaract Pre-Convention, USCC (United States-Canada-Caribbean Rotaract Conference) and District 7620 RYLA Program.
The Inaugural 2009 RYLA North America Conference was held in Washington, DC, USA from July 1, 2009 to July 5, 2009.
RYLA North America Conference George Washington University Washington, DC, USA
RYLA North America Conference 2014 is now OPEN for Registration
Guest speaker Congressman John Delaney is welcomed to the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club by President Tom Leuchtenburg. With 25 in attendance, $1068 in happy dollars were raised for club foundation service projects. Thanks very much to Bob Fuhrman for arranging to have Congressman Delaney speak at the club meeting and to Jason Hamel and Lucy Leuchtenburg for taking photos.
President Elect Caesar Kavadoy congratulates Vince Onuigubo and Alex Agwuna on their presentation about helping school chidren in Nigeria and locally through Nigerian Friendship Association Education Assistance.
President Tom Leuchtenburg congratulates Divya, Naina, and Quentin Wodon for their presentation on a book they wrote, "Membership in Service Clubs: Rotary's Experience." The book is based on surveys and interviews of Rotarians in our district. President Elect Caesar Kavadoy introduced his guest, Citibank Potomac Branch Manager Roderick Smith.
District 7620 Governor Installation Please join us for this occasion. National Electronics Museum 1745 West Nursery Rd, Linthicum, MD
Saturday, June 28
6:00pm-9:00pm Click here to download mail in registration/flyer
6:00pm social hour
Heavy hors d'oevres/ including Pescatarian & Vegetarian choices,
beverages (3 drink tickets included)
Jazz Combo...Rotary inspiration & fellowship,
run of the museum and THE INSTALLATION!
7:00pm installation ceremony no walk in's will be accepted
Dr. Leana Wen receives the Rotary Cookbook from President Tom Leuchtenburg. Dr. Wen is an attending physician and Director of Patient-Centered Care Research in the Department of Emergency Medicine at George Washington University. She is the author of the book When Doctors Don't Listen: How to Avoid Misdiagnoses and Unnecessary Tests, and is a regular contributor to National Public Radio, Women's Health Magazine, Psychology Today, and CNN on health policy and patient advocacy. Guests included Debbie and Judd Gould. Photos by Caesar Kavadoy and Chinyere Amaefule.
At Rotacon '14 on May 10, Bob Nelson received The Rotary Foundation Citation for Meritorius Service. Attending the ceremony were Nihad Kaibni and Bob Fuhrman. Nancy Szlasa also received an award for her six years of service as Area Governor in Howard County and the District Chair of the Dictionary Project.Also pictured are Nan and Bob Fuhrman with Washington Rotarian Kenneth Kimbrough.
Guest speaker Dr. Elisha Okey-Wigwe and President Elect Caesar Kavadoy. Dr. Elisha Okey-Wigwe is the CEO of Outreach & Medical Compassion Centre, a non-profit organization focused on the delivery of primary health care services throughout the surrounding rural communities near Umuagwo, Ohaji, Imo State in South East Nigeria. Dr. Elisha Okey-Wigwe is a member of the Rotary Club of Owerri in Imo State, Nigeria and has previously served as the Humanitarian/Community Service Projects Chair. Dr. Okey-Wigwe is the current chairman of TRF Committee in Owerri R.C.Dr. Elisha Okey-Wigwe presented a gift from the Rotary Club of Owerri in Imo State, Nigeria. Chinyere Amaefule introduced the speaker, Dr. Elisha Okey-Wigwe. On last year's trip to Nigeria to visit family members for the first time, Chinyere found that Dr. Elisha Okey-Wigwe was the doctor that her relatives had used. We welcomed back Rotarian Jerry Gross and guest Melanie Weerakoon Dr. Elisha Okey-Wigwe visted the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club about three years ago when Jason Hamel was President (see photo on the television).
Alex Brown is pinned as the newest Potomac-Bethesda Rotarian by Melanie Weerakoon with President Tom Leuchtenburg officiating. Members and guests enjoyed the lovely social hosted by Bretton Woods Recreation Center. Nihad Kaibni and guest Yolanda.
Chef Roberto Donna serving a delicious dinner to Nancy Szlasa and Bob Nelson who were the winners of this Potomac-Bethesda Silent Auction item at the International Night.
Rotary District Public Relations Chair Dawn Wittfelt talked about marketing for Rotary including using websites and social media. Guests were Howard County Area Governor Nancy Szlasa, Rotarian Steve Naron and Melanie Weerakoon.
Alex Naron and Bob Nelson packed 196 boxes at the Manna Food Center on April 8. The next Food Box Packing Service Project at the Manna Food Center is coming up on May 13. Please join your fellow Rotarians!
President Tom thanks Agnes Saenz, Executive Director of Community Ministries of Rockville for her presentation. The club also warmly welcomed Rotary District Governor Peter Kyle who told about the excellent conference coming up in Baltimore next month. More information and registration links for Rotacon '14 are provided under the "News" heading.
Congratulations to Sarah and Jason Hamel on the birth of their first son, Kelton Patrick Hamel, on April 8 at 4:45pm weighing 6lbs 14.7oz and measuring 18.25 inches. Jason reports, "Mom and baby are doing great."
President Tom Leuchtenburg congratulates speaker Ben Mann from WASH Advocates on his presentation on water, sanitation and hygiene around the world. We welcomed Johnny Young from the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rotary Club. A copy of the speaker's presentation is available.
President Tom Leuchtenburg presents a Rotary cookbook to Maryland State Comptroller candidate Bill Campbell. Neil Cohen introduced Bill since Neil was campaigning for US Senate in 2010 when Bill was running for Comptroller. Additional guests included Nancy, Arlene, Nan and Alex.
President Tom Leuchtenburg thanks guest speaker Trish Gilliece from Paradise Energy Solutions for her talk, "Solar for Commercial and Residential Applications."Photo by Jason Hamel.
DDF Matching Grants Presentations 7:30AM - 8:30AM Registration & LITE Breakfast
8:30-Noon Presentation of Grants
Sheraton
4095 Powder Mill Rd, Beltsville, MD
It is a reminder to all Club Presidents thatMay 9th is the deadline for sending in their 2014-15 request for DDF Matching Grantfor their project and that May 17th will be the date where they will present their projects to the Grant Committee for approval.
On Tuesday, March 11, 2014, of Potomac, MD. Widow of Michael Farah Kaibni; mother of Nihad, Samir, and Naheda; grandmother of Michael, Paul, Catherine, Tijan, Adham, and Maysoon. Also survived by six great-grandchildren. She was born in Ramallah, Palestine and emigrated to the United States in 1965. Relatives and friends may call at Collins Funeral Home, 500 University Boulevard West, Silver Spring, MD, (Valet Parking), Wednesday, from 3 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Raphael's Church, 1513 Dunster Rd, Rockville, MD, on Friday, March 14, at 10:30 a.m. Interment Gate of Heaven Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Ramallah Friends School; care of Friends United Meeting, 101 Quaker Hill Dr., Richmond, IN 47374-1926
42 New Rotarians Join Fourth Rotary Club in Washington, DC
by Bob Nelson
Over 150 people attended the chartering of the Federal City Rotary Club on February 21. The Ambassador of Pakistan, Jalil Abbas Jilani, graciously hosted the event at the embassy in Washington, DC. Congratulating the club was City Council member Muriel Bowser who noted the great community service provided by Rotarians. Both the ambassador and the council member were given honorary club memberships. Governor Peter Kyle presented
the charter to President Navin Valliappan and thanked him for his dedication and hard work in founding the new club. Rotary District Extension Chair PDG Ray Streib adminstered the oath for the new Rotarians. Rotarians from ten area clubs pinned the new members and provided gifts to the new club. Many Rotaractors joined in the celebration. President Navin noted that several of the new Rotarians have been previously members of Rotaract Clubs. Charter officers are: President Navin Valliappan, VP Rebecca Pandolph, Secretary Mathias Schroeder, Treasurer Chia-Chia Chang and Directors Lydia Rump, Jon Smith, Chris Marshal and Denise Ojie. The President of the club’s foundation is Thomas Chen.
President Tom Leuchtenburg thanks speaker and Rotary Scholar from Italy, Silvia Fuselli, for her presentation. Having already gained a M.A. Diploma in International Relations and Economics from the Johns Hopkins University, School of Advanced International Studies, SAIS-Bologna Center, in May 2013, Silvia has chosen to undertake a new study program at SAIS-Washington, DC to specialize in International Security and Politics and African Affairs. Upon completion of her academic program at SAIS, Silvia intends to pursue a professional career in the political-diplomatic sphere of her home country.
Chinyere Amaefule, Bob Nelson and Nancy Szlasa were among 150 Rotarians and guests attending the chartering of the fourth Rotary Club in Washington, DC, Federal City, on February 21 at the Embassy of Pakistan. [Above] Chinyere pins some of the 42 new members.
Just a few reminders: if your club sponsors an Interact Club or a Rotaract Club please make sure that the sponsor from your club contacts the Interact school sponsor, the Rotaract coordinator and the club presidents. The single REQUIRED element for Interact and Rotaract clubs is the submission of all data as requested by Rotary International. Of course there are other initiatives to fulfill to earn the Citation.
Please read the requirements from Rotary International in regards to earning the Presidential citation. RI President Ron Burton as added a second level for the Citation. Your club should not have difficulty earning the recognition.
Many clubs have a member take of the awards application process. The district level awards application consists of a simple check list. The format is in word to facilitate the application process. Past experience has shown time and again that the awards tracking is best completed by your designee. Please be alert in your e-mail for the listing of the links to the RI web site for awards. I have included the District Awards I will post the links for the presidential citation (two levels this year), the Interact, and Rotaract citations. The RI link will list all of the additional awards.
[Above] President Tom Leuchtenburg thanks the speakers from Hilltop Microfinance for their presentation. [Below] Caesar Kavadoy's Guest Alex Brown lives in Potomac and works at the Vienna branch of New York Life Insurance. Photos by Jason Hamel and Caesar Kavadoy.
On February 16, nine Potomac-Bethesda Rotarians went to Sophia House in Rockville to present Valentine's Gifts to 30 homeless women. Photo by Juan Carlos Peirano.
Rotarians Give Valentine's Gifts to Homeless Women
Our guest speaker was Rotary Foundation Global Scholar Sarah Roache from Melbourne, Australia. Her Global Grant is enabling her to pursue a Masters of Law in Global Health Law at Georgetown University Law Center.
[Photos by Jason Hamel]
Several Rotary Clubs in Montgomery County have changed their long-standing venues. Potomac Rotary Club will move from Normandie Farm Restaurant and begin to meet for breakfast at Ted's Diner on Rt. 355 in Rockville on February 5. North Bethesda Rotary Club moved from the Hamburger Hamlet to Oakville Grill. Montgomery Village Rotary Club moved from the MV Golf Club to the new Hampton Inn on Rt 355 in Gaithersburg.
President Tom Leuchtenburg thanks guest speaker Sheriff Darren Popkin. Guests Alicia Doherty and Lucy Leuchtenburg. Noel Howard has arranged for the club to serve dinner to the homeless on February 13.
By Claude Morissette, District Rotary Foundation Committee Chair
Good news! The District Grants Committee has advised that it has $3,742.00 available to fund District Grants for the current Rotary year. The award of this money is subject to the following conditions.
· The award is subject to the standard conditions for all awards funded by The Rotary Foundation.
· The receiving club (s) must be MOU- certified for the 2013-14 Rotary Year.
· The award may not be made to a club that has already received a District Grant this year of the maximum $1,500.00. All Clubs that have received less than $1,500.00 are also eligible to receive the difference up to the $1,500.00 maximum.
· The award must be matched on a dollar for dollar basis up to $1500.
· The award will be made on a first come first served basis.
· Applications for the award must be made by February 28.
· The project(s) funded by the award must be completed and a completion report submitted by April 15.
This is a wonderful opportunity to implement a project in your local community! Please consider submitting an application to our Grants Committee Chair, PDG Andy Baum as soon as possible!
[Above] President Tom Leuchtenburg thanks guest speaker Robert Chasteen-Scheer for his personal story of being raised in a foster home and later adopting four foster children within a three-month period. In the second photo, Robert holds the plastic bag that held the belongings of one of the children when they arrived at his home. $1010 was raised from happy dollars to support Comfort Cases (ComfortCases.org). [Below] Area Governors Nancy Szlasa and Edco Bailey with wife Cecilia and house guest Angela. Additional guests were MetroBethesda Rotarian Heidi Webb, Rex Smith and Melissa Farmer.
Each of us as Rotarians has received a gift – a gift of membership in Rotary made possible by a caring person who proposed our membership. We have and continue to enjoy the friendship, fellowship, and networking in our club and throughout the Rotary world.
As a part of this gift, we have also been given an opportunity – an opportunity to leverage our ability to make a difference in the world as we reach out to help others. We leverage by pooling resources with our club, our district, and The Rotary Foundation.
As we look around for the most pressing need, in addition to eradicating polio, alleviation of hunger stands tall. The presence of hunger, both locally and globally, is a tragedy.
In the United States 1 in 6 has to deal on a daily basis with a food insecure situation. Included in this alarming statistic are 16 million children - 20% of all children in America! Globally, five million children die each year from malnutrition-related causes.
Throughout Zones 33 and 34, under the “Rotary Has Heart” initiative, Rotarians, clubs, and districts are being encouraged to focus on alleviation of hunger, particularly with children.
Valentine’s Day 2014 has been designated as a special day for clubs and districts to feed hungry children. Each club should decide how it wants to participate. This is one way we demonstrate that Rotary Has Heart– that we believe in Doing Good in the World.
Please join me in celebrating “Rotary Has Heart” Day on Valentine’s Day, Friday, February 14, 2014.
Peter Kyle
District Governor
Rotary Has Heart is one way to do good in the world
When Julia Yank and a team of Rotary members and health workers entered Kaduna, Nigeria, to immunize children against polio they expected to encounter some tough situations. They found one in a mother of three who stubbornly refused to have her children vaccinated.
"She argued with us for over 15 minutes," says Yank, a member of the Rotary Club of St. Clair County Sunset in O'Fallon, Illinois, USA. After the team explained to her the importance of what they were doing, she finally agreed to allow her children to be immunized.
"We were told later that she only consented because of the presence of the Rotarians. That moment, I realized the impact we can make," says Yank.
This type of persistence by Rotary and its partners in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) has helped reduce the number of polio cases in Nigeria by half, as compared to this time last year. Nigeria, Pakistan, and Afghanistan are the only countries in the world where the transmission of polio has never been stopped. Overall, polio cases in the three countries have decreased by 35 percent -- thanks in part to Rotary's advocacy with government and business leaders, PolioPlus grants, and mobilizing support on the ground.
From celebrating milestones and responding to outbreaks to signing commitments and honoring our supporters, learn how the Global Polio Eradication Initiative made a difference in 2013.
A year without type 3 polio
The last case of type 3 wild poliovirus (WPV3) occurred in Nigeria on 10 November 2012. Rotary and its GPEI partners have helped reduce transmission of WPV3 to its lowest levels ever. "Although it is too soon to say that WPV3 has been eradicated . . . the world has a unique opportunity to get rid of the second strain of wild poliovirus" (after WPV2), reports the GPEI.
$500,000 emergency grant for Syria
Confirmation of cases in previously polio-free Syria "serve as a stark reminder that as long as polio still exists, unimmunized children everywhere remain at risk," says Rotary's International PolioPlus Committee Chair Robert S. Scott. In response to the outbreak, Rotary and its GPEI partners, along with local health authorities, are conducting large-scale campaigns to immunize children in the region as quickly as possible. Rotary is the first donor to announce funding for the GPEI's new Middle East strategic plan, a $500,000 emergency grant for Syria.
Joint commitment with Brazil
On 12 November Rotary, Brazil's government, and the Pan American Health Organization signed a Declaration of Commitment and Collaboration toward the Goal of a Polio-Free World. The event took place at a symposium in São Paulo where strategies for eradicating the disease were discussed.
"The document highlights the importance of technical support and the exchange of experiences to support countries that are still fighting against the disease, and the need for continued financial and political commitment by the global community until the world is certified polio free," says PolioPlus Director Carol Pandak, who spoke at the event.
Rotary members in District 4420 in Brazil also announced their commitment to donate 40 percent of their District Designated Funds to PolioPlus. Through the End Polio Now: Make History Today fundraising campaign and World Fund match, these funds will be matched 2 for 1 by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and generate $250,000 for polio eradication.
Ethiopian leader honored for polio-free achievement
As president of Ethiopia, Girma Wolde-Girogis played a pivotal role in helping his country be polio-free during his last five years in office. In recognition of his work, Girma received the Rotary International Polio Eradication Champion Award in November. Ethiopian native Ezra Teshome, governor of District 5030 in Washington, USA, presented the honor to Girma. Teshome was in Ethiopia leading a team of North American Rotary members to participate in the country's National Immunization Days.
Although the polio outbreak in the Horn of Africa has affected Ethiopia, a strong response has slowed the pace of transmission in the region. The polio endgame strategic plan, if fully funded, is equipped to stop such outbreaks.
"We will keep coming back until the disease is gone," says Teshome. "We are determined to get the job done."
Rotary helps close out the year with gains against polio
On December 15 Tom and Lucy Leuchtenburg hosted the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Holiday Party at their home. On December 17 Alan Grant hosted a holiday party at his new offices. The accompanying photos are from both parties. Thanks so much!
Maryland Photographer of the Year, Tammy Thompson, shows some of her award-winning photos to the holiday-decorated and completely filled meeting room. Photos by Nancy Szlasa.
10 Million Charity Miles from United started 6 December and goes until 31 December. Help Rotary get airline miles that can be used for humanitarian projects and other types of service opportunities.
Last year, Rotary came in second. Let’s go for first this year!
Vote for Rotary at 10millioncharitymiles.com to help Rotary get airline miles!
President Tom Leuchtenburg presents the Rotary Cookbook to John Kolm after John gave an update on the work in Haiti which has been supported by our club.
PDG Rich Carson kicked off Rotary Foundation Month with an excellent talk on Rotary's charity.
Guest Arlene Cohen and Nihad Kaibni.
Area Governor Nancy Szlasa and Juan Carlos Peirano.
At The Rotary Foundation Gala on November 3, Bob Nelson accepted two awards on behalf of the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club. The two banners read "100% Sustaining Member Club" and "US $100 Per Capita Club - 100% Member Participation."
Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Receives 2 Foundation Awards
Guest Speaker Seaton VanderWoude, Manager of Job Development at Community Support Services received a Rotary Cookbook from Bob Nelson. Established in 1994, CSS is provides community-based service to children and adults with autism and other severe developmental disabilities. CSS provides cost-effective job opportunities having government incentives for businesses.
Noel Howard (dressed as Sherlock Holmes for the club meeting on Halloween) and Chinyere Amaefule.
President Tom Leuchtenburg presents a Rotary Cookbook to guest speaker Tracei Johnson who represented Secretary Gary Maynard in presenting the current initiatives of the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services. [Below] Tracei Johnson and Area Governor Greg Wims who is also founder of the Victims' Rights Foundation.
Sign up for RYLA 2014 opens today! This is a signature District 7620 program that benefits over 120 students every year. It is open to any 11th or 12th grade high school student that is in good standing with their school and has demonstrated leadership potential but may not have been exposed to leadership courses or opportunities. The program is open to not just students in your Interact clubs but sons, daughters, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and neighbors.
The attached information package gives you a brief explanation of what RYLA is about and includes the club sponsorship form and directions on submitting delegate forms electronically through the RYLA website at www.ryla7620.com.
Please support RYLA and recommend a student for sponsorship to your club leadership. Get on board and be part of a program that promotes the values and ideals of Rotary and leadership to the youth. These are our future Rotarians!
President Tom thanks Rotary District Governor Peter Kyle for his inspiring talk with a Rotary Cookbook. Governor Peter expressed his appreciation after the meeting: "I am writing to thank you most sincerely for the wonderful reception I received at the Rotary Club of Potomac-Bethesda last Thursday. What an enjoyable evening! Almost standing room only! I very much appreciated your kind words of introduction,the generous hospitality and the many kind words that were directed at me. All in all it was one of my most memorable official visits! I plan to do a second round of club visits in the New Year and am already looking forward to my return visit to your club. Please convey my grateful thanks to all your members for the warmth of the hospitality that I received."
Rotary District Governor Peter Kyle and Area Governor Greg Wims.
The Normandie Farm restaurant set up two additional tables to handle the extra large turnout for the Rotary District Governor.
Chinyere Amaefule, guests Josephine and Vince Onuigbo, and Area Governor Greg Wims.
Bob Nelson and Rotary District Governor Peter Kyle
[Left] Guest Katie Kia; [Right] Jason Hamel announced that his second child will be arriving later this month.
President Tom received the Paul Harris plaque from Immediate Past President Nabil Bedewi. Phil Meade collected $300 in happy dollars.
Photos from the social hosted by Ed Ronan at the Bretton Woods Country Club. Arlene Cohen and Linda Meade; Ed Ronan Nihad Kaibni and Hari Viswanathan with Dr. Juvenal Goicochea, Past President and former club member; Phil Meade and Noel Howard Heidi and Juan Carlos Peirano and Irene Grant; Guest Tom Orban and Bob Nelson Hari, Nihad with Guest Vince Onuigbo; Nihad and Bob with Art Blitz Lucy Leuchtenburg and Nan Fuhrman; Guest Anne Ayers and Bob Fuhrman
Bob Furhman and President Tom Leuchtenburg.
Bob gave an excellent classification talk. Bob Furhman's wife Nan and son Eli. Allan Barwick, Bob Fuhrman's friend of 47 years. Johnny Young, Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rotarian. Guests Ed Ronan and Anne Ayers with Nabil Bedewi and Noel Howard.
Noel works at the Navy Yard in the building next to the tragic shootings and is providing grief counseling. Happy Night: $159 was raised from happy bucks for the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Foundation.
I am sure you have seen on the news the tragic deaths that occurred earlier this week at the Navy Yard in Washington, DC. One of the victims was Mr. Frank Kohler, a past president of the Rotary Club of Lexington Park, Maryland. Additional information on Mr. Kohler is available at:
Our guest speaker on August 29 was Eric Sterling, President of the Criminal Justice Policy Foundation who spoke on a very controversial subject, "The Legalization of Marijuana." There were comments from members and guests, many who did not share the speaker's point of view.
Guests included Rotarian Steve Naron, Ed Ronan, Paul Schmidt, Linda Meade, Whitney Point Rotary Club President Ron Wing, BCC Rotarian France Pruitt and Anne Ayers (France and Anne pictured above).
Thanks so much to Alex and Steve Naron and their team
for packing 200 boxes of food for needy families.
It's our club's 27th year working with the Manna Food Center.
A child receives the oral polio vaccine during an immunization campaign. Photo Credit: Iman Morooka/UNICEF
As of 14 August, 110 cases of wild poliovirus have been reported in the Horn of Africa.
Rotary has approved a $500,000 Rapid Response grant to the World Health Organization (WHO) to address a recent polio outbreak in Somalia. The outbreak occurred in the Banadir region of Somalia, where a large number of children had not been vaccinated against polio due to inaccessibility.
As of 14 August, 110 cases of wild poliovirus have been reported in the Horn of Africa—100 cases in Somalia and 10 in Kenya. This is the first outbreak in Somalia since 2007 and in Kenya since 2011.
The Rotary grant will cover operational costs, including human resources, training, and transportation of health workers, aimed at immunizing children under 10 in all accessible areas of Somalia in August.
To date, five vaccination campaigns have been held in Somalia, three in Kenya, two each in Ethiopia and Yemen, and one in Djibouti. Additional campaigns are planned through the end of the year.
Drawing on lessons learned from previous polio outbreaks, the first vaccination campaign was carried out within a week after the first case was confirmed.
“Until polio transmission is interrupted in the endemic countries, outbreaks such as the one in Somalia are to be expected,” says Dr. Hamid Jafari, director of Polio Research and Operations at WHO. “So long as the budget for the new Polio Eradication and Endgame Strategic Plan is fully funded, we’re well-equipped to pursue endemic and outbreak priorities simultaneously.”
Once again this year, I invite you to join us in New York City at the Rotary-United Nations Day on Saturday, November 2, 2013. In addition, Canadian Rotarians can participate in a UN Tour Friday am and a Special Canada Session, hosted by the Canadian UN Ambassador on Friday afternoon, November 1st.
The Saturday meeting is scheduled from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at UN Headquarters and will include presentations and panel discussions addressing Millennium Goals, and key humanitarian issues. The event will feature presentations from senior UN staff and Rotary leaders, with panel discussions on our mutual goal of achieving peace.
Advance registration is necessary and I suggest you do this asap. Cost is US$45. including a box lunch. You can register for the Saturday meeting on line at: https://www.eventbrite.com/event/7622626481 NOTE: UN tours are not available on Saturday, so those interested in this should do so on Friday morning.
For the Canada Session on Friday afternoon, please email me your complete name/address at: rotary@teamvincent.com by October 20, 2013. This is a separate registration from Saturday which requires security clearances.
Saturday evening is our Friendship Dinner Cruise, November 2nd at 6:30 pm. All Rotarians, UN Colleagues and friends from around the world are welcome to join us. Enjoy a buffet dinner, music and fantastic view of NYC skyline at night. Register online at bottom of the first page at http://2013district7080untrip.eventbrite.com
Accommodation is expensive in NYC. There are more economical hotels across the river about 30 minute bus ride away. Many stay at the Quality Inn or Marriott Hotel in, Lyndhurst, NJ and save over $100. per night. Or if flying, the Comfort Inn in Queens is a convenient-to-subway location.
Join me at the United Nations, meet our Canadian UN Ambassador and celebrate Rotary's role in the development of the UN back in 1945. It will be an exciting experience. Rotarians, family members and friends are all welcome.
Hoping you are having a wonderful summer.
With best regards,
Doug V
PDG Douglas W Vincent, RC Woodstock-Oxford
Box 1583, Woodstock, ON Canada N4S 0A7
Rotary United Nations Representative, Z24
COL Representative 08-14, District 7080 www.dougvincent.com Speaker Info link
President Tom Leuchtenburg welcomes Area Governor Greg Wims at the Potomac-Bethesda monthly social. Gaithersburg Rotary Club President Frederic Abramson and Anne Ayers, Guest of Bob Nelson. The two Bobs, Bob Nelson and Bob Fuhrman. Juan Carlos Peirano and Frederic Abramson.
Nihad Kaibni and Nabil Bedewi.
Silver Spring-Kensington Rotarian Jon Van Winkle
Neil Cohen.
Bob Fuhrman and Noel Howard.
Jane Lovas, Business Therapist, thought leader, author, and speaker helps Overwhelmed CEOs, Executives and Leaders Kick their Fears and Create Healthy Organizations. Using her Clarity Focus and Release™ process she supports the innovative changes that are required to foster profitability and business growth. As CEO of Lovas Consulting, she developed Clarity Focus Release™, a model to help companies grow by keeping them focused on where they want to go. Jane is the author of Put Your Big Girl Panties On and Kick Your Fears in the Ass and Co-Author of Seen and Sustained: Best Practices in Communication that Increase the Visibility of Small and Diverse Businesses with Akia Garnett, Mali Phonpadith and Tamecia Bradshaw.
As many of you know, the outdoors, with all its beauty, wonder, and challenge have had a huge positive impact on me and helped make me into the person I am today. The Summit for Someone program helps to provide those same opportunities to at risk youth in the Big City Mountaineers program. My hope is that my personal quest can help raise money for that program. Since I have finally summited Mt. Rainier, I have decided to attempt to reach the highest point in all 50 states.
To date, I have been to Mt Rogers (VA), Mt. Davis (PA), Jerimoth Hill (RI), Mt. Rainier (WA), Wheeler Peak (NM), and Brasstown Bald (GA).
This year I hope to go even higher then Mt. Rainier in an attempt at Colorado’s highest point in Mt. Elbert. At 14,440 feet, it is the second highest point in the lower 48 behind California’s Mt. Whitney. I plan to climb on August 20th.
Any donation you can provide will be greatly appreciated. All funds go directly to the organization and do not support my self funded climbs.
Thank you!
Jason Hamel Climbs Mt. Ebert, Highest Peak in Colorado
We warmly welcomed back former Potomac-Bethesda Rotarian Bernard Henry as our guest speaker. Chef Bernard told of the amazing customers that he is currently serving as a personal chef and that a pilot television program is in the works for PBS.
Last year’s Membership and Extension Month was a big success. Rotarians from more than 400 districts in over 100 countries committed to membership goals. And members from every continent tweeted their favorite #RotaryMoment. So this year, we’re going to challenge you to do even more.
Join the Membership Thunderclap and plug Rotary’s goal of connecting leaders and creating change in communities around the world. Thunderclap is an online tool that lets you share a single message with a mass audience through Facebook and Twitter. It’s a simple way to reach a wide group of people. Learn how you can be part of our Thunderclap.
We’re also inviting you once again to participate in our Membership Challenge. Simply complete a brief online form and set your membership goal, and we’ll send you tips and best practices to help you accomplish your objectives. Possible goals:
refer a new member
invite a family member to attend a club meeting or activity
ask a friend or colleague to take part in a service project
reconnect with alumni
engage young leaders through Interact, Rotaract, or RYLA
President Tom Leuchtenburg and guest speaker Dr. Alonzo Smith from Montgomery College. Dr. Smith spoke about President Abraham Lincoln and the freeing of the slaves as we mark the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War.
Visiting Rotarian Dorothee Fouan-Huber from Berlin, Germany, with President Tom Leuchtenburg and Chinyere Amaefule
President Tom Leuchtenburg moderated a Club Assembly with a lot of discussion from members about planning for the year. Neil Cohen is chairing the International Night Committee and he held an impromptu committee meeting. With some members on vacation in August and excellent speakers scheduled to speak, it's time to invite guests and prospective members.
Bob Fuhrman and his wife Nan celebrated the installation of Bob as our newest Potomac-Bethesda Rotarian.
President Tom Leuchtenburg presided at the installation of new member Bob Fuhrman.
Sponsor Nihad Kaibni confers the Rotary pin.
Thank you for supporting The Rotary Foundation. I hope you feel the same sense of pride and accomplishment that I do when you review the enclosed fact card. Because of donors like you, our Foundation has a far reach and we are poised to offer our help in a host of different ways. You enable us to extend aid to those who need us the most. On behalf of these children, women, and men, please accept my sincere thanks.
I am pleased to report that as of 1 July 2013, our future vision plan will be fully operational. What started as an ambition for tomorrow's service efforts has grown into an award-winning grant model that will enhance the scope, impact, and sustainability of our Foundation's projects.
A strength I see in the plan is that it clearly outlines our areas of focus: peace and conflict resolution, disease prevention and treatment, water and sanitation, maternal and child health, basic education and literacy, and economic and community development. Each area represents a significant need that Rotarians are addressing every day in communities around the world. The future is here!
So much good begins with the dedication of Foundation Benefactors like you. Your commitment to The Rotary Foundation's Endowment Fund will support vital programs for generations to come. Thank you, again, for your generosity.
Sincerely,
Wilfrid J. Wilkinson, Chairman, The Rotary Foundation Trustees, RI
President Elect Caesar Kavadoy presents the Rotary Cookbook to guest speaker Miriam Gandell who spoke about the mission of The Dwelling Place to provide housing for people in need in Montgomery County. Thanks to Jason Hamel for making the arrangements and providing the introduction.
By Sherry Whitworth Please join DG Bob Parkinson and DGE Peter Kyle as we pass the baton of leadership of our great and wonderful Rotary International District 7620.
at the New Zealand Embassy 37 Observatory Cir NW, Washington, DC 20008
(Adjacent to the residence of the Vice President) ample street parking available
6:00pm social hour (heavy hors d'oevres/cash bar)
7:00pm installation ceremony We will be very pleased if you join us for this occasion.
Tickets for the event are $60 each - limited space so sign up now!
For security reasons, you must be on the attendance list by July 4th.
Our guest speaker on June 13 was Mike Bishop who was introduced by Jason Hamel. Yelp was founded in 2004 to help people find great local businesses. Yelp had an average of approximately 102 million monthly unique visitors in Q1 2013. Yelpers have written over 39 millionlocal reviews. Thanks to Mike, people searching on Yelp.com for charitable organizations and service clubs will find the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club listed with a direct link to our club's website.
The Council on Legislation meets every three years to consider changes to the policies that govern Rotary International and its member clubs. This year’s Council accepted a dues increase of US$1 per year per member, removed limits on e-clubs, decided to permit satellite clubs, and changed the name of the fifth Avenue of Service from “New Generations Service” to “Youth Service.”
“Rotarians have different viewpoints on various issues and topics, and this is good for Rotary,” said William Pollard, a Council representative from Virginia, USA. “I quickly learned that some items that might not be important to my district might be very important to a district in another country.”
The two largest labor unions in Portugal are planning to hold a one-day general strike 27 June. Such strikes are usually peaceful, but this one is likely to disrupt the travel plans of Rotarians leaving Lisbon the day after the Rotary International Convention ends.
While the strike might be postponed or have a minimal impact on transportation, Rotarians should be aware of it and plan accordingly. If you have booked a flight on 27 June, ask your travel agent or airline about rescheduling. Airlines often rebook passengers for the next available flights after such events. Rotary is monitoring the situation and will post any new information on www.rotary.org as it becomes available.
General strike planned in Portugal for 27 June. May disrupt RI Convention travel plans
Rotary District Governor Bob Parkinson and his wife Trish were among the special guests and spouses attending the annual installation of club officers. [L-R] President Elect Tom Leuchtenburg, Trish Parkinson, Governor Bob Parkinson and President NabilBedewi. Past President Jason Hamel was named "Rotarian of the Year" and received the club trophy from President Nabil. [L-R] Incoming officers taking their oath: President Elect Caesar Kavadoy, Treasurer Nabil Bedewi, President Tom Leuchtenburg, Secretary Hari Viswanathan. Nihad Kaibni's guest was Ed Ronan, General Manager of Bretton Woods Recreation Center. Past President Steve Naron (on right side, now a member of the Hollywood FL Rotary Club) and his wife Laura were special guests.
Area Governor Nancy Szlasa (on right) from Howard County was invited by President Nabil to join us for the installation.
Bob Nelson received a plaque from District Governor Bob Parkinson "for his untiring efforts and limitless contributions to our success in 2012-2013." Bob produced the monthly District Newsletter and stepped in last February to be the district chair for DisCon 2013 on the Potomac, the first three-district conference.
[Above] Just a few of the volunteers at the Manna Food Center Packing Night on June 11. Visiting Rotarian Steve Naron joined Bob Nelson and the team from Alan Grant's office.
The Nelson family thanks everyone for their outpouring of love and support during the illness and passing of Marilyn Nelson on May 20. Pictured above [L-R] Melissa, Hannah (age 6), Sydney (age 3), Adam, Lois, JoAnna and Bob Nelson. The photo was taken at Collins Funeral Home by Neil Cohen.
On Monday, May 20, 2013 at 11:52 pm, Marilyn Nelson of Gaithersburg, MD. very peacefully passed into the presence of the Lord. Beloved wife of Robert W. Nelson; daughter of the late Frank and Anna Geffert; sister of the late Frank Geffert, Jr.; aunt of Adam and JoAnna Geffert; great aunt of Hannah and Sydney Jane Geffert.
Relatives and friends may call at Collins Funeral Home, 500 University Boulevard, West, Silver Spring, MD, (Valet Parking), Monday, May 27, from 7 to 9 p.m, and on Tuesday, May 28 at Immanuel’s Church, 16819 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring, MD, from 10 to 11 a.m.; where the Funeral Service will follow at 11 a.m. Interment private.
Memorial contributions may be made to Alliance Defending Freedom, Family Research Council, Immanuel’s Church and Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Foundation.
President Nabil gives gift cookbooks to Hilltop Microfinance speakers Eleni Kessler, Christopher Timko, and Nat Blakeway-Phillips. Initial funding for the Georgetown University based microfinance project was provided by our Rotary Club.
Thanks very much to Jason Hamel for arranging the Quarterly Service Project and dinner on May 2. Rotarians and a spouse gave blood and the dinner was held at the Potomac Grill on Rockville Pike. Giving blood and not pictured above were Hari Viswanathan and Irene Grant.
[Above] The main dining room of Normandie Farm Restaurant was full for the 33rd annual Rotary International Night Program featuring Superintendent of Schools Dr. Joshua Starr and Rotary International Scholars. We were honored that District Governor Bob Parkinson, District Governor Elect Peter Kyle and District Governor Nominee Bill Fine and their wives attended. [Below] Head table; MC Art Blitz and speakers.
33rd Annual International Night on April 21 Featured Dr. Joshua Starr and Rotary Scholars
President Nabil gives Rotary cookbooks to Olney Rotarian Tom McCarthy and Olney Rotary President Geoffrey Fenner. They gave a PowerPoint presentation on the Cyprus Friendship Program and invited families to host two high school students from Cyprus for two weeks in July. The program is to bring Muslim and Christian young people together so that peace will ultimately be restored in Cyprus.
As the District Governor of District 7620 and from one of the three districts that shared the great three district conference this past weekend, I was delighted to see all of you come and share your time, your projects, your ideas, your hopes and aspirations for your club and for Rotary, locally and worldwide. That was the purpose of gathering Rotarians from the three districts. I hope that all of you went away with at least one new idea on improving your club, your organization, your fund raisers and your projects. I hope that some of the ideas you left with include partnering with other clubs and across district boundaries. Trish and I had a wonderful time with you and as I fade back into my club as Treasurer, I will have fond memories of all the events at this fantastic conference made wonderful by your presence with your time, talent and treasure. God bless all of you as we move forward in Peace through Service to Engage Rotary - Change Lives.
[Above] Monica Smith, Exhibition Program Manager at the Smithsonian’s Lemelson Center for the Study of Invention and Innovation, National Museum of American History, receives the Rotary Cookbook from President Nabil. [Below] Bobby Park (Guest of Neil Cohen) and Noel Howard. [Bottom] Chinyere met Monica at the Dupont Circle Rotary Club and invited her to speak at Potomac-Bethesda.
Attendees must be pre-registered by Monday April 21st . NO registrations after this date.
HOTEL RESERVATIONS are separate from the conference registration and need to be made directly with the hotel - $119 a night If you are planning on staying overnight at the hotel,
please call the Hyatt Regency Crystal City DIRECTLY for reservations
at 1-888-421-1442 by referring to the conference name "DISCON ON THE POTOMAC 2013"
Watch a livestream of Rotary Day at the White House honoring 12 Champions of Change
Rotary News -- 4 April 2013
Twelve U.S. Rotarians will be honored by the White House as Champions of Change on 5 April during a Rotary Day at the White House event.
The day-long event combines two weekly White House public engagement programs – Champions of Change and the Community Leaders Briefing series -- to recognize the humanitarian efforts of Rotary members and their positive impact on communities locally and internationally. The White House defines Champions of Change as ordinary Americans who are doing extraordinary things in their communities.
This year’s Rotary honorees include: Tom Barnes, Rotary Club of Marion-East Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Bob Dietrick, Rotary Club of Franklin At Breakfast, Tennessee; John Germ, Rotary Club of Chattanooga, Tennessee; Peggy Halderman, Rotary Club of Golden, Colorado; Nancy Sanford Hughes, Rotary Club of Eugene Southtowne, Oregon; Walter Hughes Jr., Rotary Club of Rocky Mount, Virginia; Ann Lee Hussey, Rotary Club of Portland Sunrise, Maine; Jeremiah Lowney Jr., Rotary Club of Norwich, Connecticut; Douglas McNeil, Rotary Club of Los Gatos Morning, California; Harriett Schloer, Rotary Club of Bend High Desert, Oregon; Bonnie Sirower, Rotary Club of Paterson, New Jersey; Neli Vazquez-Rowland, Rotary Club of Chicago, Illinois.
You can watch the Rotary Day at the White House event on a live video stream from the White House beginning at 08:00 CDT, 5 April.
President Elect Tom Leuchtenburg presents our speaker and author Barbara Glickman with the Rotary Cookbook as he receives her book, Capital Splendor. Barbara made an wonderful PowerPoint presentation showing photos of beautiful nearby gardens, many unexplored by our Rotarians. What a fitting way to celebrate the official start of Spring!
Interested
in advertising a personal business or a club project that you are
working on in the 3-District Conference Program Booklet? You don't have
to be a Rotarian to advertise. The Conference will be held at the end
of April. Please go to www.rotary7620.org
to download the program ad registration form (click on COMPLETE
REGISTRATION FORM...page 2). Deadline is soon!!! Don't wait!!! Reserve
your spot now!!! Rates are reasonable and will reach 3 Rotary
Districts...Eastern Shore, Delaware, from Frederick to Southern
Maryland, and Washington DC.
DisCon Advertising Opportunity by Sherry Whitworth
Previous year's winners are an impressive group: Josh Freeman, Craig Ruppert, Stewart Bainum, Carol Trawick, Jeffrey Z. Slavin, and Patrice and Scott Brickman.
Who Will Be the Next Montgomery County Philanthropist of the Year?
[Above] Tom Leuchtenburg presented the highlights of the Chesapeake Presidents Elect Training Seminar (PETS). He also updated everyone on the now more competitive housing market where well-priced properties in Potomac and Bethesda may be sold in a matter of days with multiple offers. [Below] Phil and Nabil flank Nabil's guest, George Tannous.
Come to Manna Food Center the second Tuesday of each month at 7pm and join these faithful volunteers! Have fun packing food boxes for the needy and get some exercise, too! Contact Alex Naron at alexnaron@gmail.com or phone 240-620-4795.
Dr. Howard, It was a pleasure to meet you and your wife on February 13 at the Wilkins Avenue Women's Assessment Center (Sophia House). Thank you and the Rotary Club for the lovely Valentine's Day gifts which you and your wife presented to the ladies. Best regards, Theresa J. Ford, Volunteer Coordinator Assistant, Interfaith Works.
Thank You From Sophia House Homeless Womens' Shelter
As you know from the many email announcements and reminders, the District Conference is being held April 26-28th
at the Hyatt Regency in Arlington, VA. We have a great program for you,
I think, and many of the projects that you have worked this
year will be there to demonstrate what we have accomplished. We will
also have golf, tennis, bowling and a jazz party on the Thursday as a
prelude to the conference.
When we set the venue two years ago we set the rooms and meals for
the average of what we had experienced in the recent past expecting a
similar turn out this year. Unfortunately, we are running behind our
registration experience that we had the last couple
of years. What is much needed is registration for rooms associated with
the conference. We need about two Rotarians per club (with spouses) to
register for the Friday and Saturday nights. Of course registration for
the conference is also needed.
This conference is for us, a celebration of our successes this year. I
have visited all clubs and without exception, you are all doing great
work and have the camaraderie that is the making of a vibrant club
throughout the gamut of club size. Please bring
that great work and camaraderie to the conference and stay for a few
days. We have joined with two adjoining districts to give you the
opportunity to experience the wonderful atmosphere that develops as
Rotarians share experiences and ideas and then come back
to their clubs excited about a new idea they would like to share and
implement. While not as big as the Rotary International convention, the
conference will give you a flavor of the experience and great feeling
that comes from rubbing shoulders with many Rotarians,
all with a little bit different way of exhibiting Service above Self.
As President of your club, I would really appreciate you coming to
the conference, staying for the duration (or what you can) and bringing
your Rotarian Club members with you. Please register soon at http://www.rotary7620.org/.
There is a discount on the registration until the 15th of March. Please share this email with your members.
Thanks so much for you consideration and I will be very pleased to see you there!
At the Rotary Club Social on February 28, Jason Hamel introduced club members to his friend from Virginia Tech, Tony Obriot. Tony is a Realtor with Team Reeder in Frederick.
District Governor Elect Peter Kyle congratulates President Elect Tom Leuchtenburg for successfully completing the training at the Chesapeake Presidents Elect Training Seminar (PETS) on March 1 and 2.
Tom Leuchtenburg Completes President Elect Training
The
Semi-finals will be held on Saturday, April 13, 2013 at Glen Burnie
High School located at 7550 Baltimore-Annapolis Boulevard, Glen Burnie,
Maryland 21060.Registration will start at 8:30 a.m., with the contest starting at 9:30 a.m. sharp.The deadline for submission of the Contestant Registration Form, Participation Agreement and registration fee is April 5, 2013.
The
Finals will be held at a District breakout session at the District
Conference on April 27, 2013 which will be held at the Hyatt Regency
Crystal City.
If you
should have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Mike
Phennicie at 410-859-7987 (office) 443-386-2542 (cell) or email at mphennicie@bwiairport.com.
The following attachments are available for download
President Elect Tom Leuchtenburg and Bob Nelson represented our club at the gala unveiling on February 20 of four giant murals honoring Dr. John Sever for his role in Rotary's worldwide polio eradication program. The murals were financed by six Rotary Clubs including our own and the Rotary District. On February 22 the murals were installed in a prominent location at Childrens' Hospital. Pictured above are the artist, Heather Buggee, Splashes of Hope, Dr. John Sever, and a representative from Childrens' Hospital.
Childrens' Hospital Receives Rotary PolioPlus Murals Honoring Dr. John Sever
One of our most talked about speakers, Dr. Michelle Thaller, is returning to the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club on Thursday, February 7. Michelle is the Assistant Director of Science for Communications at NASA’s Goddard Spaceflight Center. She has also been one of the regular hosts of “The Universe,” television series on the History Channel, National Geographic Channel’s “the Known Universe” and Discovery Channel’s “How the Universe Works.” Michelle represents all of NASA’s science themes, from Earth science, the Sun and space weather, solar system exploration, all the way out to cosmology and the deep universe. Michelle speaks to members of Congress and their staff regularly, as well as international embassy staff and internal NASA policy-makers. Invite guests and friends to come and ask questions of this gifted speaker.
Less than a year after initiating an innovative project to
construct the first fully three dimensional oyster reef in the Chesapeake Bay
in almost 100 years, a unique partnership between St. Mary’s College of Maryland,
the St. Mary’s River Watershed Association and District 7620 Rotary Clubs is
preparing to construct the first phase of the new 3 dimensional reef in the St.
Mary’s River in St. Mary’s County. The demonstration project is expected to
serve as a model for restoration of at least half of the Bay’s 70,000 acres of historic
three dimensional oyster reefs that were mined into extinction at the end of the 19th Century and early 20th Century.Restoring the tremendous algae and nutrient filtration
capacity of the Bay oyster is essential to restoring its water quality.
Over the past year the partnership completed an exhaustive
literature search and analysis; prepared a comprehensive design report;
obtained all required State and Federal permits; purchased and deployed Coast
Guard approved navigation hazard buoys; and initiated a public outreach effort,
including a new website and Facebook page. To keep project costs affordable,
last Fall, project team member, Dr. Christopher Puttock of the Rotary Club of
College Park organized Rotary and non-Rotarian volunteers who constructed
ninety 350 pound concrete reef balls at the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Oyster
Recovery Facility in Shady Side, Maryland.On three occasions, Dr. Puttock and his volunteers
met at the CBF facility and under the supervision of CBF staff members
assembled fiberglass molds and carefully filled them with fiberglass reinforced
concrete.The following day the
volunteers returned to remove the molds and clean up the site.
[Above] Guest speaker Hank Lewis receives a gift Rotary cookbook from President Nabil for his very helpful overview of successful fundraising techniques. [Below] Sergeant-at-Arms Art Blitz shows his expertise in raising happy dollar funds from fellow Rotarians.
The fight against polio is on the cover of this week’s TIME Magazine. Read about the progress in fighting polio and Rotary’s role in eradicating this crippling disease.
“Thanks to aggressive global vaccination programs led by Rotary International, UNICEF, the World Health Organization, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, and, most recently, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the year just beginning could be the disease’s last.”
President Nabil Bedewi gave an illustrated presentation about the country of Belize and the investment he has made in an acre lot in a new development, Sanctuary Belize.
Thanks to all who came out on January 8 to pack nearly 200 boxes of food for needy families in Montgomery County. We need your help - please mark your calendar for next month's packing on February 12. Photo by Marilyn Nelson.
Manna Food Center Packing Night on January 8, 2013
Young people around the world are
finding ways to promote Peace Through Service in their communities. Here are two examples:
Interactor
Haley from the Interact Club of West Feliciana
High School in St. Francisville, Louisiana, USA, won the Interact Peace
Through Service postcard contest with her design featured above. View all the entries
and share your favorites on social media. Haley
and her mother will receive round-trip airfare to the Rotary Global
Peace Forum in Honolulu, Hawaii, 25-27 January. Their prize comes from
the 2.5
million charity miles that Rotary received last year through the United
Airlines 10 Million Charity Miles Giveaway.
Rotaractor Susanne Büttner joined more than 1,800 people, including many New Generations
participants, at the first Rotary Global Peace Forum in Berlin. Read
her post on the Rotary Voices blog.
RI President Sakuji Tanaka encourages clubs and districts to organize community peace forums that involve Youth
Exchange students and other New Generations participants and challenge them to promote peace in their everyday lives.
A
teacher prepares a lesson for first graders at École Ste.-Famille in
Les Cayes, Haiti. The school was rebuilt with support from a Rotary
Foundation donor advised fund after the 2010 earthquake. Resolve to
support the Foundation's work in the six areas of focus in 2013. Rotary Images/Alyce Henson
Try something different in 2013 to attract new
members and keep existing ones. Here are a few ideas to help you do more
with Rotary in the new year.
It may be the end of the year, but we are gearing up for DisCon on the
Potomac FIRST EVER 3 District Conference to be held next year. This
will be a fun filled event that you won't want to miss. Attached is our
first newsletter regarding the conference with
details on our event planning as well as a registration form. First
cut off date for registrations is January 31st. SIGN UP NOW!!!
Rotary International joins the Government of Pakistan and our partners in the
Global Polio Eradication Initiative in condemning the recent attacks that have
killed and wounded health workers in Pakistan.Read a statement
Polio Vaccination Attacks in Pakistan by Rotary International News
The
purpose of this email is to inform Rotary Clubs in District 7620 about
the Rotary Ambassadorial and Global Grant Scholars who are studying in
our district this academic year. As a condition of these scholarships,
scholars are expected to participate in Rotary club meetings and
activities in the district, making presentations whenever possible.
Please
take advantage of this rich cultural opportunity by contacting these
scholars and inviting them to your club meetings. Remember that
transportation to meeting locations may be an issue since most scholars
rely on public transportation. Please copy host sponsors on all
invitations.
Following is a brief summary of each scholar (click on story title).
With the help of social media, the Rotary Club
of Edmond Boulevard, Oklahoma, USA, became a chartered, active club in less than two months.
“We had more than 25 people email us with signed charter forms within two weeks of posting and sending messages on
Facebook and LinkedIn,” says Hal Stevens, the club’s charter president. He and other charter members found potential members by
looking at Facebook profiles and interacting with people on LinkedIn message boards.
“Social media helps us engage a diverse audience who might not know anything about Rotary, get their feedback, and
respond to questions immediately,” says Michelle Schaefer, 2014-15 governor-nominee for District 5750 (Oklahoma).
Thanks so much to Todd and Hibst Nitkin for hosting the Rotary Club Holiday Party at their lovely home in North Potomac. Above is shown the sumptuous table with all the delicious homemade food by Hibst and the three other creative cooks shown below.
Swapna Santhanam, Esther Kavadoy and Arlene Cohen at the Rotary Club Holiday Party.
Four recent graduates lived in Guatemala on $1 a day for a summer to study the financial habits of the poor. They created Living on One and are now advocating for worldwide financial inclusion by touring the country and sharing their documentary detailing their experience. While in D.C., they met with the HMFI leadership team and Bernardo Figueroa, HMFI's first client. See the full interview at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOt2KnuTMaQ&list=UUYTwCNZG6lChfNO252Vyl3A&index=1&feature=plcp.
The Hilltop Microfinance Initiative Newsletter - November 2012
Thanks so much to Alan Grant and his law firm partners Rena Strauss and Michael Riffkin for hosting a holiday party at the Far East Restaurant in Rockville. 188 pounds of canned goods were collected for Manna Food Center and $350 in donations were made to the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Foundation including proceeds of a 50/50 raffle. Above are Frances Call and Lucy Leuchtenburg. Click "more" for additional photos...
President Nabil thanks MetroBethesda President Stephanie Lowet and Rotarian Jeremy Lichtenstein, Founder of Kids in Need Distributors (KIND). Every weekend KIND sends children of Montgomery County home with nutritious food that wouldn't be otherwise available. Due to the generosity of Potomac-Bethesda Rotarians, $500 was donated to KIND.
December 6 Meeting Report: MetroBethesda Rotarians Describe Service Projects Including Kids in Need Distributors (KIND)
Vote in the MileagePlus 10 Million Charity Miles Giveaway. Vote daily so Rotary receives the most miles. Please email everyone you know the attached link and have them vote every day until December 25. http://10millioncharitymiles.com/charity/39
Vote for Rotary in the United Airlines 10 Million Miles Charity Giveaway
Economists may say the recession is long over, but at Manna Food Center we continue to see the unprecedented need for food in Montgomery County. As the new executive director, I have been moved to see how the community comes together to support Manna—as it has since 1983. Manna has grown to serve over 40,000 households in the last year, up from 24,000 in 2008, and your support has made all the difference. 700,000 pounds of the food distributed through Manna came in from community food donations and almost half of our operating costs were defrayed by community residents.
The RI District 7620 RYLA Program is an intense, 4-day, 3-night
leadership training program that is designed to recognize, encourage,
and further develop the leadership skills of 11th and 12th grade high
school students who have shown a potential for rendering important
service to their schools and communities. The RYLA weekend is typically
held at the National 4-H Youth Conference Center, 7100 Connecticut Ave,
Chevy Chase, MD 20815 in February. Approximately 150 high school
students are sponsored by Rotary Clubs from Districts 7620 and 7630.
In an effort to encourage all clubs to participate in
Global Grants and to establish significant projects that have far lasting
impact, your District is embarking on a new system of awarding District Designated
Funds. The District will be divided into four geographical areas that
will create a cooperative among the participating clubs. Every club is eligible
to take part so that project ideas can flow from all sources and be vetted by
the group. Emerging from the Regional Grant teams should be strong projects
with sustainable outcomes. To reward and encourage participation, the District
will allocate "Funds” of at least $30,000. This generates at least a
$60,000 project. (continued)
We have heard back from Bob Grill and Linda Tice about their disaster relief trip to District 7490 in Northern NJ. They received a very warm welcome and have relayed out district’s desire to help over the next several weeks. Here is the list of items that are in demand:
Clothing, Underwear. Socks, Blankets, Mattresses, Cots, Pillows, Bedding, Towels, Coats, Sweaters, Sweatpants and Sweatshirts – All of these items must be new not used.
Bottled water
Cleaning supplies of all types - mops, brooms, pails, disinfectant, bleach, detergent Batteries, especially D size batteries
Disposable diapers for babies of all sizes Depends for senior citizens
Non-perishable food items, especially Chunky soups, protein items like tuna fish or salmon, sardines, peanut butter, bread, jellybeans, stews, canned ravioli, also juices Paper plates, plastic utensils and cups
Baby food of all types Non-electronic toys and game
Rotarians from here and around the world are able to advance world understanding, goodwill and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education and the alleviation of poverty. It is all made possible because of the generosity of Rotarians throughout the world making the choice of giving both money support and sweat equity to our Foundation.
This is why, from November 1 thru December 31 or until the points runs out, whichever comes first, thanks to the generosity of many Rotarians in our District, we are able to offer this Matching Point Program for any $100.00 donation to the Annual Program or Polio Plus Program (minimum and maximum match is $100.00 per donor). All you have to do is encourage your members to make a contribution to the Foundation either directly or thru your Club and then send a request for matching point to me directly with the names, Rotary ID #, Club #, amount given and date the donation was made on the attached form.
Please do it as soon as possible as we have a limited amount of points to match.
Thank you for taking the time to help your Foundation
Yours in Rotary Service
Claude Morissette DRFC 2012-2016
Rotary Foundation Matching Point Program by Claude Morissette
At our meeting on 10/18, Jeff Stafanis & Amber Wason, co-founders of RiiDE presented their view of the next generation of Electric Bycicles as the future of urban transportation and the quickest and least expensive way to get around a city. They will reveal more about their company in Jan/Feb 2013.
I would like to thank each one of you for your support of Swat Relief Initiative, which strives to improve the lives of women and children in the Swat Valley after the devastating effects of the Taliban takeover and mega floods.
We have come a long way from the time I sent everyone a desperate plea in 2009 to enable me to go and help the people of Swat when they were displaced from their homes by the Taliban conflict, and were living in desperate conditions. Your support made it possible for me to provide that badly needed help.
If your club cares about its future, it will want the best leadership possible. This is an outstanding opportunity for each club to improve the Rotary knowledge of its key people, who will also be exposed to new ideas of leadership. The exchange of ideas with other experienced Rotarians alone makes the courses worthwhile.
The mission of The Rotary Leadership Institute is to provide an educational opportunity for Rotarians identified as potential leaders by their club presidents. Each club president is asked annually to nominate club members as potential club leaders (not necessarily future presidents) in the years ahead. Courses will be given for the nominees to foster Rotary knowledge and leadership skills. Course methods will reflect the most innovative and participatory methods possible. (More...)
For the
past two years, RI has had the district nominate a member for the Club
Builder Award and we have submitted one each of those two years. This
year they are moving the selection and award process to the district and
increasing the number of awards to 10 for the year.
Dick and Helen Alsmeyer visited Evelyn Jennette on the way to Dick Gordon's viewing on September 7. Later that evening Evelyn was rushed to the hospital where she passed away. A family funeral is being planned.
Death of Evelyn Jennette, Widow of Charter Rotarian Joe Jennette
More: Article in the Washington Post , September 6, 2012
On Monday, September 3, 2012 of Darnestown, Maryland. Beloved husband of
the late Jane E. Gordon; father of Maureen Gordon, Elizabeth Henderson,
Peter Gordon, Susan Bird and James Gordon. Grandfather of 8. In
lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Rotary Club of
Potomac-Bethesda to the Jane Gordon Haitian Relief Fund, 8212 Buckspark
Lane, Potomac, Maryland 20854.
Peter Gordon, son of our beloved Dick Gordon, just phoned me to let me
know that Dick passed away peacefully this morning, surrounded by his
loving children and grandchildren. It is with bittersweet sadness that I
convey this message, because while I know we will all miss the dearly
loved Dick very much, Peter relayed the thankfulness the family all has
for the love and legacy that Dick leaves with all of us, for the peace
that they have at his peaceful passing surrounded by their love, and for
the fact that he is now with his lovely wife, Jane. Peter asked me to
let you all know of his passing, and that he will be calling me tomorrow
with funeral details. I will relay those to you just as soon as
possible.
John Lexow Call, a fun-loving and passionate advisor, died of pneumonia on Thursday, July 25, 2012. Also known as Jack, he had a good nature and willingness to share his ideas and opinions on life; Jack's career in financial advising spanned more than 60 years.
[From the Gazette Newspaper] Manna Food Center of Gaithersburg recently introduced a new executive director after the previous one stepped down. One
of the county’s largest food banks, Manna named Minerva Delgado its new
executive director July 24. Delgado had spent the last five years as
director of agency resources at the Food Bank for New York City, one the
nation’s largest food banks.
Nihad Kaibni announced on August 9 that when he visited Christina in the Phillipines, he gave her a ring and they are engaged! Congratulations Nihad and Christina!
I am following all news about the club. So here are some stories about me and my family. I have been 3 m. in Europe. We baptized my 2 grandchildren in Belgrade. I have 3 grandchildren . Last one is adorable girl Lena. ...
Jack Call passed away on July 25, 2012. A memorial service to be held on Saturday August 18th at noon at his residence, 21425 Georgia Avenue, Brookeville, Maryland (Cinnibar Farm). All Rotarians are invited. - Alan Grant
From Jerry: "Hope to back to the club in August; still struggling with my recovery from testicular cancer and chemo treatment; hopefully, the chemo will be out of body shortly."
Jack Call has been in Montgomery Hospital for the past week as children from as far as Texas and Colorado have come to be at his bedside. He was somewhat sedated when I visited him today, but he pulled his arm out from under the blanket and gave me a very firm handshake. Hopefully he'll be able to return home soon with round-the-clock nursing at home.
Chinyere Amaefule is co-presenting a workshop on professional development at the 2012 Rotaractors Conference at GWU this weekend. The RYLA Conference in North America is an intense leadership training program that is designed to recognize, encourage, and further develop the leadership skills of 18-30 year olds who have shown a potential for rendering important service to their local communities.
By Marty Peak Helman, governor of District 7780 (parts of Maine,
Massachusetts, and New Hampshire, USA)
On his first day as RI President, Sakuji Tanaka joined Rotarians in my
hometown of Boothbay Harbor, Maine, taking part in a Changeover ceremony for six
district governors and 46 club presidents.
Rotarians came from Quebec, New York, New Jersey, and all over New England –
some making a 10-hour drive — in order to shake hands with Tanaka-san, hear him
speak, and be formally inducted by him into their new Rotary offices. It was a
remarkable honor for all.
The centerpiece of the Changeover was a lobster bake. President Tanaka has
publicly stated he is most comfortable in suit and tie. But I knew I couldn’t
live with myself if we ended up squirting lobster juice on his tie. So we
created tie-dyed T-shirts in his colors, promoting “Peace Through Service.” We
made it a fun thing to wear, which he did, complete with presidential pin
On behalf of the mother who
will receive prenatal care, the father who will have access to fresh water for
his family, and the children who will learn to read and write in their newly
furnished school, thank you for your gift to The Rotary Foundation. Your
Rotary Club's contributions bring health and hope to these individuals, these
families, these communities. In 2011-12, RI President Kalyan Banerjee
challenges us to Reach Within to Embrace Humanity. Thanks to you and the
members of your Rotary Club for making this gift. It is one step toward a
better world.
The Georgetown Prep senior drove his homemade hybrid electric vehicle more than 230 miles on a little more than one gallon of gasoline on Monday, March 12, traveling from New York to Prep’s campus, where he arrived to a hero’s welcome that included a local TV news station. “My goal is completed,” Rami told WUSA 9 of the challenge he undertook more than a year ago. Rami is the nephew of President Nabil Bedewi.
Habitat for Humanity of Montgomery County was formed in 1982, one of 15 affiliates in the state of Maryland. John Paukstis has served as Executive Director since 2006.
District Rotarians have donated points for a matching APF donation retroactive March 1 thru June 30 or until they are used up. The match is for a minimum of $100 to a maximum of $500. From April 1st, a donation of $250 with Direct TRF Contribution and District matching program, they could give or receive a Paul Harris Fellow.
Joseph passed away on Wednesday, December 14, 2011.
Joseph was a resident of Gaithersburg, Maryland at the time of his passing.
He served in the Navy and attended the US Naval Academy, VA Tech and University of North Carolina.
A memorial service was held on Monday, December 19, 2011, 11am at Grace United Methodist Church 119 North Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg, MD 20877.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions were made to the scholarship fund at Potomac Bethesda Rotary Foundation, 8220 Gainsborough Court West Potomac, MD 20854.
[Above] Guest speaker Steve Gurney is the publisher of the Guide to Retirement Living and gave insight into the varying programs and amenities available at area senior communities. [Below] Alan Grant and his daughter Stacey, Chinyere, Noel, Juan Carlos and Tom enjoying Rotary fellowship.
[Above] Keirsten Lee reported on the wonderful experience that was provided by our club for her to attend RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) on President's Day weekend. President Nabil presented her with the Rotary International cookbook. [Below] Nihad and Steven Lee, father of Keirsten; Shepherdstown WV Rotarian Michelle Liefke; Nihad's guest Robert Fuhrman.
Guest speaker Jerry Wolman reflected on his life experiences going from a newly married couple arriving in Washington DC with no money and ultimately becoming a real estate tycoon with 30,000 apartments and 5 million square feet of commercial space being constructed in the area. [Above] President Nabil thanking Jerry for his amazing "rags to riches" story. [Below] Guests included Irene Grant, Jerry's wife and her coworker, and a friend of the Meades. [Click "more" for additional photos.]
Heidi and Juan Carlos Peirano with President Nabil. On December 20 Juan Carlos gave an illustrated presentation on the process of purchasing foreclosed homes. He has been quite successful in refurbishing the homes and selling them at a profit of up to 31% (pre taxes).
On December 13 Joseph Keyes spoke about his many years working for the International Monetary Fund in many different countries. He was the first person from Ireland to have been hired by the IMF.
We welcomed Lawrence Aikins, guest of President Nabil, to the meeting on December 20. Lawrence founded his own company, LKA Computer Consultants, Inc., with a focus on telecommunications and security.
Rotary District Governor Bob Parkinson made his official visit to our club. Above he receives a cookbook of recipes from Rotarians around the world from President Nabil. A portion of the proceeds of the sale of the cookbooks goes to the eradication of polio. [Below] Area Governor Greg Wims introduces the Governor. Also pictured with President Nabil is guest Toafic Raymond.
[Above] President Nabil thanks guest speaker LCDR Brian Moore for his fine presentation on the U.S. Coast Guard. [Below] Steve Naron is congratulated for his faithful service in maintaining the club's former website.
Jason wanted to thank everyone who participated in the service project at Manna Food Center. The service project in February will hopefully be preparing dinner and presenting Valentine’s gifts at the Sophia House Homeless Shelter.
The Rotaract Club of Metro Washington DC is doing a “Toys for Tots” fundraiser at the 901 Restaurant and Bar, 901 9th St. NW on Saturday, December 1, 5pm to 9pm.
December 16 will be the annual holiday party hosted at the home of the Nitkins (please RSVP through the website).
Alan Grant reported that the Dictionary Project has completed seven schools with one more to go on November 20 at Wayside Elementary.
Alan’s firm is hosting a cocktail party at the Far East restaurant from 5pm to 8pm on December 12. Please bring canned goods or make a donation to the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Foundation.
Tom went to the Pre-PETS training in Baltimore which was very good. Most of the time was spent with the Area Governor, meeting other club presidents and cruising the Baltimore harbor.
Rotary is responding to the aftermath of hurricane Sandy with Rotarians on the ground and donations coming from clubs. Nabil will be driving donations to Lanham where there is a drop-off point at PDG Bob Grill’s company.
Tom is accepting old coats at his Potomac office that will be cleaned by Bergman’s and distributed to needy persons in our county.
Phil reported on the completion of painting and landscaping at the Jewish Group Home and thanks to the generosity of our Rotary Club the home will be receiving a 50-inch flat-screen television with a wall mount.
Guido Adelfio is offering a trip to the RI Convention in Lisbon with additional touring of Portugal after the convention.
Rotarians Chinyere Amaefule, Tom Leuchtenburg, Phil Meade and Bob Nelson encourage 100 third graders at Bells Mill Elementary School to utilize their new dictionary/almanac provided by the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club.
Photos by Tom Leuchtenburg
Dictionary Distribution at Bells Mill Elementary on November 14
I want to thank the entire club for the huge turnout at Manna Food. Nine Rotarians and one guest came for Service above Self. We went through a ton of food and made a noticeable difference. Thank you all for your support. More details to follow on our next Service Project for February.
Thank you,
Jason Hamel
Rotary Club of Potomac-Bethesda
Rotarians Sort It Out at Manna Food Center Service Project on November 1
I hope everyone is surviving the storm alright. If anyone needs anything, please feel free to reach out to me and I will do my best to help.
I would like to thank everyone for coming out this past weekend. I especially want to thank Juan Carlos for bringing two professional painters that he works with to do a great job. Let's try and send some work their way as our way of thanking them. I also want to thank Phil Meade in taking the lead on discussing a gift for the home. I think the board is going to consider a gift of a TV for them.
Both the JFGH coordinator and I learned a lot, specifically that we need more work. We have agreed to talk in February and set up a date in the spring with more of a focus on landscaping. I promise that next spring we will be busier and we will need everyone to help.
Finally, this Thursday is Manna in lieu of our regular meeting. As of now, we are still on, but obviously that is subject to change with the weather. Please let me know if you are coming or not so that I can plan for food.
Thank you and be safe!
Yours in Rotary,
Jason Hamel
Rotary Club of Potomac-Bethesda
Thanks for Your Support of the JFGH Service Project by Jason Hamel
The event is still on and we need your help. We will be painting at the Gelman Home at:
5310 Manorfield Rd, Rockville, MD 20853 from 10 - 2
Please do not come too early as they need to clear out the residents before we begin work. All supplies along with light refreshments will be provided. If you have paint tools that you wish to bring, you are welcome to bring them. Dress in work clothes! If we actually work until 2, we will provide lunch as well. However, the home has asked that only Kosher food be allowed in the house, so if we work late enough for lunch, it will be eaten outside.
As of right now, only three Rotarians have registered their responses online, so please take a moment to do so.
Yours in Rotary,
Jason Hamel
Rotary Club of Potomac-Bethesda
JFGH Work Project on Saturday: Painting at Gelman Home by Jason Hamel
Rotary - An Appreciation by Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Charter Member Dick Gordon from the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Newsletter, November 9, 2006
I have been a member of the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club since January, 1980, when it was a provisional club waiting to be chartered by Rotary International. Joe Jennette was my sponsor. He had arranged for a notice to be published in a local weekly newspaper inviting former Rotarians to join, and I responded eagerly.
I had previously served in three Rotary Clubs in Southeast Asia, beginning in January, 1955. Those memberships totaling about seven years were most interesting and gratifying, and helped me tremendously in my public relations work for the U.S. Information Agency’s overseas program. I was active in all three clubs - - serving intermittently as International Director, Program Chairman and Bulletin Editor.
"I finally made it. Now I am so sore that I can't climb up my stairs at home. I will send more details later once I get situated, but here are a couple of pictures. See you Thursday night, but I will be hobbling.""
Potomac-Bethesda Rotarians served up a birthday party for the homeless women at Sophia House in Rockville on July 24. Thanks to Rotary District Governor Bob Parkinson who attended.
Governor Bob Parkinson sent a note to President Nabil Bedewi and Dr. Noel Howard: "Thanks for inviting me and letting me help with the birthday party for the women of Sophia’s House! A wonderful experience and the efforts of your club make me particularly proud to be a Rotarian. I was struck by the courtesy of the women who are down and out – very friendly and warm to talk to. The warmness of one’s heart, the sadness that it is that way for some of our society, and the determination one has to continue to provide service are all feelings of hope that someday we will all enjoy a modicum of the fruits that our society can provide. I call these Rotary moments, and you can be proud that you did your part to create this Rotary moment for all of us."
Ann Lee Hussey will not rest until polio, the debilitating disease that has afflicted her since childhood, is eradicated worldwide. An inspiring look at her very personal quest.
by Jan Goodwin
Mary Ellen Mark
Every day, there is pain. Ann Lee Hussey’s right leg is an inch and a half shorter than her left, causing her to limp. Her feet are misshapen, and her joints and muscles ache so badly by the end of the day that it’s tough to go to sleep.
And yet within the last decade this 58-year-old has made 20 trips to some of the most rugged and dangerous places in the world—Mali, Nigeria, Chad. Each time, she leads a team of one to two dozen volunteers with the same ambitious goal: to immunize as many children as possible, thereby ensuring that they will not contract polio, an infectious viral disease that can attack nerves and cause paralysis. It’s the same ailment that has wreaked havoc on Ann Lee’s life. “I get exhausted sometimes, but then I remember: I never want another child to endure what I’ve gone through,” she says.
Eliminating the sources of illiteracy through CLE in 20 schools in Beni Sweif in Uppe Egypt
supported training more than 150 teachers on CLE and eliminating the illiteracy of more than 9000 young learners in 20 primary schools in Beni Sweif in Upper Egypt. club conducted as well a medical convoy and supported eye surgeries and provided dry food packages. The project is run in cooperation with the Professional Academy for teachers, the Ministry of Education, and the governorate of Beni Sweif. The club established an RCC for sustainability to continue withe the project and there are plans for scaling up the project to cover the rest of the primary schools in Beni Sweif pending the availability of funds.
On February 23 a joint social was held by the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rotary Club and the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club at the Jaleo Restaurant in Bethesda. The March social is being held in conjunction with the Rockville Rotary Club on March 22 at the Oro Pomodoro Restaurant in Rockville Town Center.
President Chinyere thanks Dr. Bruce Trock from Johns Hopkins University for his presentation on prostate cancer. Potomac-Bethesda is one of the clubs engaged in the Rotary Prostate Cancer Study to better understand the risk factors contributing to the disease.
ClubRunner secures all your private information using the latest security technologies. Hosted in a world class data centre with redundant power, Internet backbones and 24/7 security and monitoring, you can rest assured that your club data is safe and protected. Your members' contact information is secured behind unique logins and passwords. Access to information is also restricted, for example, a member can only view the list of members, but can modify his or her own personal information.
Data on the server is protected by TCP/IP filtering, firewall and anti-virus software that protect against any unauthorized intrusion. Backups of data are made daily and stored off-site.
ClubRunner makes it easy to publish your weekly Club eBulletin, and send to all members and friends of the club, by incorporating home page stories and events with the push of a button.
Ralph Buglass, a Montgomery County native and avid history buff, has taught at lifelong learning institutes associated with Johns Hopkins and American universities and Montgomery College. He speaks frequently to community groups, businesses, and other organizations as well as at national conferences. In 2020, with Peerless Rockville, he co-authored Images of America: Rockville, a pictorial history of the city’s 250 years. A retired communications professional, he is a graduate of Winston Churchill High School and has a B.A. in American history from Cornell and an M.A. in journalism from American University. An ambitious project in our nation’s early days, the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal was built alongside the unnavigable Potomac River as a 
commercial waterway to reach the west. But doomed almost from the start by the railroad, then put out of business altogether by the river flooding–not to mention almost being turned into a parkway–it is now a treasured recreational spot by cyclists, hikers, canoeists and others with technological wonders of its time and natural beauty to behold.
Gandy Thomas is the Ambassador, Representant Permanent Adjunct at the Mission Permanent of Haiti at the OAS. Having obtained a Master’s degree in International Relations of the Diplomatic Academy Andres Bello of Chile and a Bachelor’s in accounting Management at the Institute National of Management, Administration and International Studies, Mr. Thomas joined Haiti’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1991. He has served at the Embassy of Haiti in Chile as a Consular Officer from 1996-1998; at the Haitian Embassy in Cuba (where he had the responsibility of reporting on political developments and bilateral cooperation) from January 1998-December 2000; at the Embassy of Haiti in Colombia as Consul in charge of Political affairs from January 2001 to March 2002; at the Embassy of Haiti in Venezuela as Charge of business from 2002-2005; at the Embassy of Chile as Counselor, Responsible of Bilateral Cooperation from 2005-2008, at the Consulate of Orlando from 2008 to 2010 in the process to establish a consulate in Atlanta. He became Consul in Atlanta from 2011 to 2016. Away from work, Gandy is a fan of most sports; he particularly loves tennis, golf and soccer. Gandy is married to Leslie Gonzalez and, they have two children, Zhara and Legan.
Get ready to set sail for a springtime adventure of service, connection and Chesapeake charm at the District’s Conference! Join us at the stunning Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Resort, where the sun-kissed waters meet endless possibilities for learning, fellowship, and action.
"Marty" passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by her three surviving children, Mary Rankin Meade Howell (William), Martha Pendleton Meade Weber (Gary), Philip Pendleton Cooke Meade Jr. (Linda) and her devoted caregiver, Remenila Tirol. She was predeceased by her husband of 64 years, Philip Pendleton Cooke Meade; two of her five children, William Rankin Meade [1997] and Elizabeth Burwell Meade [2020]; and her brother John Woodruff Rankin [2009]. 
Dr. Royce Hanson is the co-author of Nation’s Metropolis The Economy, Politics, and Development of the Washington Region that 
government and the persistent problem of racial inequality has been compounded by failure to resolve the conundrum of governance for the District of Columbia. They recommend rethinking the governance of the entire region.
A Rotarian since 2006, Delores recently served as an Area Governor for six Area 2 Clubs. Delores is a member of the Board of Directors for her home club and has held several leadership roles including the following: Club President 2017-2018, Invocation Committee Chair, Membership Chair, and Director of the Student Scholarship Fund. In addition to her various leadership roles, Delores is an engaged club member and has served on several club committees: Youth Service, International Service, and Community and Vocational Service.
women in the skin care and color cosmetics industry. As a Founding Member of the Greater Baltimore Leadership Association (GBLA) of the Greater Baltimore Urban League, Delores has spent over twenty years mentoring Young Professionals between the ages of 21-40 and has served as a role model for leadership for both the current and past administrations of GBLA. Delores is a Diamond Life Member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. For over twenty years, Delores has been a member of several Baptist Churches, where she served as a Steward (Trustee) and 
"There are a million stories in Montgomery County" and David Holzel, Editor, Montgomery Magazine will speak about some of them at the Rotary Club meeting on April 13, 2023
Sarah Witcher is an Education Biologist for the Department of Natural Resources, Wildlife and Heritage Service. In this role, she serves as the State Coordinator for Project WILD, on the state committee for the Envirothon high school competition program, and as a leader and public speaker for the Wild Acres backyard habitat program. She also writes for outreach publications in multiple formats and supports the Rare, Threatened and Endangered Species research and management efforts of the Natural Heritage Program.
Ben was born and raised in Maryland and spent over 10-years as a speech professional working with government, business, and philanthropic leaders from around the world. Through this work, he had opportunities to travel extensively, opening his eyes to the many systemic failures of the agricultural practices that humans have come to rely on. Over time, he became deeply interested in alternative food system development that would support future generations, reduce food insecurity, and help prevent ecosystem collapse.
Michael Sam is the Founder and CEO of Bread of Life International. He has an unstoppable passion to see that every African child – especially the poor, the needy, the vulnerable, and the deprived has access to sufficient food and never have to go hungry. Born and raised in Ghana, Michael obtained scholarship to study at a university in United States. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Decision Information Sciences and MBA from University of Maryland, at College Park. Michael has used his experience as a Consultant and Agile & Scrum Coach to help organizations both Fortune 500 companies and the U.S. Federal Government Agencies to become more agile and achieve better results by successfully transforming the way they work.
Dr. Michelle Thaller is the Assistant Director for Science at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt. Michelle has a Bachelor’s degree in astrophysics from Harvard, and a Ph.D. from Georgia State University. After a post-doctoral research fellowship at Caltech, Michelle became particularly interested in public outreach and science communication and served as the public outreach lead for the Spitzer Space Telescope at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory before moving to Goddard Space Flight Center, where she is the Assistant Director of Science. Michelle was one of the regular hosts of Discovery Science Channel’s “How the Universe Works,” and also hosted the podcast “Orbital Path” on public radio. She has received several high-profile awards for online science journalism and science leadership. NASA’s 
science themes include Earth science and climate change, the sun and space weather, solar system exploration, cosmology and the deep universe.
The State's Attorney's Office is a constitutionally created independent agency. Our mission is to serve the public interest through fair and honest administration of justice by exercising responsibilities to: prosecute criminal violations in Montgomery county; educate the public to criminal justice issues; provide training to lawyers for future service; address inequality and promote fairness in the criminal justice system; insure access to the criminal justice system; promote professional relations with judges and attorneys; and further the efficient use of criminal justice resources.
Frederick W. Kagan is a senior fellow and the director of the Critical Threats Project (CTP) at the American Enterprise Institute (AEI). In 2009, he served in Kabul, Afghanistan, 
Research at the Department of State; he retired in late 2019. Before State, he worked for four years at the US Information Agency and for five years at the Library of Congress as a Soviet/East European analyst. In the 1990s and early 2000s, he published numerous articles on international relations in Central and Eastern Europe, including Ukraine. Some of these articles were translated into Ukrainian and Polish and published in Ukraine and Poland, respectively. Stephen has traveled to Kyiv twice and L'viv once. 
Dr. Pallavi Gowda is a medical doctor with a passion for community health and wellness. She is the Founder/ CEO of a concierge medical practice (Premier Health LLC) and more recently, RotaCare Maryland Inc. RotaCare Maryland Inc. is non-profit 501(c)(3) public benefit corporation, she and her board members can combine passion for medicine, humanitarian aid, collaborate with local community and hospital leaders and foster their Rotary connections. Dr. Gowda’s wealth of professional experience come from her Executive MHA degree and working in multiple healthcare systems to include the military, large healthcare system (MedStar Health), private practice and now with a nonprofit organization. She serves the Rotary Club of Potomac as its Afghan Refugee Assistance Coordinator and is Club’s President-Elect for 2022- 2023 as well as District Chair for International Rotary Fellowship of Healthcare Professionals. She has a long track record of volunteer service for which she recently earned her a 2022 President’s Lifetime Achievement Award from AmeriCorps and President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. RotaCare Maryland Inc is a subsidiary of RotaCare Free Clinics which was formed in 1989 when a Bay Area Rotarian, Dr. Mark Campbell and his Rotary Club of Campbell reviewed the Bay Area Community Health Needs Assessment and set out to help those who had limited access to much needed healthcare services. Dr. Gowda aims to bring Dr. Campbell’s philosophy of care to our nation’s capital region and thus founded RotaCare Maryland Inc with the immediate need to serve the over 9000 Afghan refugees that have relocated to the DC-Maryland-Virginia (DMV). However, lack of education on their benefits, the gaps in coverage, access to medical clinics and language are barriers for them to access medical services. Aside from being fueled by the individuals she helps, she is states there are exciting times ahead as she is implementing her new electronic healthcare platform which combines telehealth and incorporates digital health, called Oxygen Healthcare. She serves on the Medical Advisory Board for the last two years. The digital health platform is state of the art technology at the crossroads of usability by combining healthcare data interoperability, a user-friendly combination of electronic health record and telehealth all with the convenience of a phone application option for patients. In her free time, she values human connections with friends and family. She enjoys long distance running, playing tennis and teaching Zumba. PROFESSIONAL ROLES: Medical Doctor, Internal Medicine, Primary care Degree in Master of Health Administration Founder and CEO of Premier Health LLC, Concierge Practice Founder/ Chair of the Board for RotaCare Maryland Inc. Rotary Club of Potomac, President-Elect International Rotary Fellowship of Healthcare Professionals- District 7620 Chair Medical Advisory Board, called Oxygen Healthcare Asian American Health Initiative, Montgomery County DHHS- Steering Committee Maryland Reserve Corps, Active Member AWARDS • Recognition from AmeriCorps & the Office of the President of the United States - President’s Lifetime Achievement Award for their lifelong commitment to building a strong nation through volunteer service. Signed by President Joseph R Biden Jr. • Governor Larry Hogan Service Award 2021 • Certification of Recognition, Comptroller of Maryland 2020 • Washingtonian Top Doctor 2018- 2021 • Bethesda Top Doctor 2021 • “Potomac Lifestyle” Readers’ Choice Winner 2021 • National Defense Service Medal • Global War on Terrorism Service Medal • Army Superior Unit Award • Leading Physicians of the World by the International Association of Healthcare Professionals 2015 OTHER • Warrior Women Project- National Best Seller • 2nd Runner Up for Ms. India- DC • Certified Zumba instructor
On February 3 Rotarian Nabil gave an impassioned update on his work with Believe in Belize. We are truly thankful that Nabil has continued to serve Rotary and the humanitarian needs of Belize. As a Club, we have committed to assist Nabil in his latest request to ship donated supplies and goods to Belize. Nabil has committed $2,000 of his own money to help finance the cost of shipping a 40 ft container to Belize. Our Club needs to raise another $2,000 for this worthy endeavor. If you would like to participate to help fund this worthy Believe in Belize shipping container expense, please make a check payable to the Potomac Bethesda Rotary Foundation. I will be accepting donations at the club meeting or you could hand deliver or mail me your contribution at a later date. If our Club receives in excess of $2,000 from our members (other than Nabil), the rest will be deposited into our Foundation account to be used at a later date.
Ambassador Michael N. Nemelka returned to Kellogg Hansen in 2020 after serving as the Deputy United States Trade Representative for Africa, China, the Western Hemisphere, and Investment, Services, Labor, and Environment. In addition, he was responsible for global trade policy in the areas of intellectual property, market access, and industrial competitiveness. Ambassador Nemelka was confirmed by the Senate by voice vote without opposition. As Deputy United States Trade Representative, Ambassador Nemelka formulated and implemented U.S. trade policy for the regions and issues under his purview, led important trade negotiations, and developed and executed strategies to address trade barriers and unfair trade practices in countries around the world. Ambassador Nemelka played a key role in the successful implementation and launch of the new United States-Canada-Mexico Agreement, which replaced NAFTA, and in the monitoring and enforcement of the groundbreaking China Phase I deal. He also served as the lead negotiator for the proposed free trade agreement with the Republic of Kenya, which would be the first such agreement between the United States and a country in sub-Saharan Africa, and negotiated important trade agreements with Ecuador and Brazil. Prior to being confirmed as Deputy United States Trade Representative, he served as special advisor to Ambassador Robert E. Lighthizer, the United States Trade Representative.
leaving them in a vulnerable state with their lives and dreams at stake. Among the many challenges that come with living in Kibera, poverty is the biggest of them all. And among the many solutions one could think of, fighting poverty through education and empowering women, who are sole providers in most families comes first…or at least we believe so. 
Michele Higgs is Housing Initiative Partnership’s Community Outreach Coordinator. In this role, she engages residents, businesses, and elected officials to raise awareness of housing opportunities, tenant resources, and HIP’s counseling programs across Montgomery County. 
Adriana Hochberg: Adriana Hochberg serves as the Climate Change Officer for Montgomery County, Maryland. She leads Montgomery County’s efforts to combat climate change while building a healthy, equitable, and resilient county. Ms. Hochberg coordinated the development of the Climate Action Plan, a strategic roadmap for the County to cut community-wide greenhouse gas emissions by 80 percent by 2027 and reach zero emissions by 2035. Ms. Hochberg previously served as an Assistant Chief Administrative Officer for Montgomery County. 
SOLAR GARDENS AND REDUCING CARBON EMISSION
climate change. Jeff Turner (from Columbia Town Center Rotary and Citizens Climate Lobby) and Dr. Cliff Strawitch (from Citizens Climate Lobby) will do a Zoom presentation about Climate Change, how Climate Change affects people in our region, and how CCL’s efforts to build bridges in a non-partisan way to solve climate-related issues align with Rotary’s mission. 
Dr. Benjamin Newton joined StemCell Arts, an affiliate of National Spine & Pain Centers, in 2016. As a board-certified, fellowship-trained sports medicine physician, his professional passion includes regenerative medicine and interventional orthopedics. He has extensive experience evaluating and treating non-operative orthopedic, sport injury, and musculoskeletal complaints of the spine and extremities. Dr. Newton utilizes regenerative therapies to help patients of all ages get back to an active lifestyle. Double board-certified in sports and family medicine, Dr. Newton also holds additional training certificates in musculoskeletal Ultrasound and Fluoroscopy. This training is essential to the precision required for Stem Cell, Platelet, and Prolotherapy procedures. During residency in Vermont, Dr. Newton treated high school athletes and volunteered at injury clinics at nearby ski resorts. As a sports medicine fellow in Cincinnati, he had valuable experiences with Beacon Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine. Here, he was able to evaluate and treat professional and elite level athletes. During this same fellowship, Dr. Newton spent time at spring training in Arizona with the Cincinnati Reds, as well as home games in Cincinnati. He completed a second fellowship in interventional orthopedics and regenerative medicine with Regenexx at the Centeno-Schultz Clinic in Colorado and remained on staff, following its conclusion. 
"The Warrior Women Project: A Sisterhood of Immigrant Women" 
My name is Sanah Jivani. I am particularly excited to be reaching out to my new local Rotary clubs (will be moving to the area from Texas!) because Rotary has been instrumental in my life and leadership development. When I was 12 years old, I was diagnosed with a condition called Alopecia and lost my hair overnight. As you can imagine, this is a traumatic experience for a young person. I struggled with my mental health and self-confidence. I began to first develop my voice when I found Interact and the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards. They provided me with grassroots funding and mentors and believed in me when I did not have supportive adults or mentors to lean on. I have a deep connection to Rotary, and with the help and mentorship of my local club, I started my own non-profit organization (
poverty. I relate to many of our scholars, because I grew up in a household filled with domestic violence and was often told that I would not succeed. Good mentors and leadership from my local Rotary club shifted that for me, and as the new Community Engagement Manager at Generation Hope, inquire re: speaking or partnering with your club. 
Maryland. 
We talk proudly of the 35,000 Rotary clubs in the world but rarely mention the nearly 11,000 Rotaract Clubs and the more than 20,000 Interact clubs. In theory, there is a staircase from Interact (high school) to Rotaract (college to about age 30) to Rotary. The vital second step is missing in Montgomery County.
the Vice President at Housing Up in Washington DC, where he led the provision of affordable housing and supportive services to more than 700 homeless individuals and at-risk households. Prior to his Housing Up experience, Courtney served as a Child Welfare leader in DC and Alabama. He received his Bachelor of Social Work from Oakwood University in Alabama, a Master of Social Work from The University of Alabama, and holds a Nonprofit Management Executive Certificate from Georgetown University.
Member of the Senate since September 17, 2013. Vice-Chair, 
Eric Bernard is the President and Chairman of the Board of the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department. He is also the Executive Director of the Montgomery County Volunteer Fire and Rescue Association serving as the chief advocate on policy, directives, governmental relations, negotiations and public safety for Montgomery County's 19 local volunteer fire and rescue departments with over 1600 active professional volunteer members. Eric is an Adjunct Professor of Forensic Science at The George Washington University teaching graduate courses in forensic pathology/death investigations, forensic investigations, the biological aspects of forensic science, field medicine, weapons of mass destruction and emergency response. He is also on the faculty at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine.
Last Thursday at our social at Bretton Woods, Dr. Noel Howard brought back Fritz Cineas to enjoy the camaraderie and perhaps to rejoin our Club. As you probably remember, Fritz was a member of the Potomac Bethesda Rotary Club years ago. He was the Ambassador from Haiti. 
Lt. Vince Upole is a 19 year veteran of the Maryland State Police. He began his career in 2001 as a Cadet in the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division and is currently the Commander of the Rockville Barrack. Lt. Upole has worked various assignments throughout the State of Maryland but primarily in the Washington Metro Troop and Western Maryland. In 2014, he earned a Master's Degree in Management, and graduated with honors, from Johns Hopkins University. Lt. Upole is a current member of the National Tactical Officers Association and is a graduate of the NTOA Tactical Command College. He is a member of the Maryland State Police, Crisis Negotiation Team and assists with resolving high risk incidents across the State. He is also a member of the Maryland State Police Mobile Field Force to help restore peace during civil disorder that has reached violent levels. In addition to responding to incidents of civil disorder, the team also conducts search management functions, security for special events, protective details, counter-terrorism operations, and any other mission deemed critical to protect the citizens of Maryland.
Lucy inspires confidence in her clients through their clothing style. She helps both men and women develop their own unique style, clean out their closets, put together outfits and shop for pieces that speak to their authentic image.
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David M. Feehan is a world recognized expert in downtown revitalization. For more than forty years, he has provided leadership and management to successful downtown and business district organizations, founded and directed a technical assistance center for community development organizations and a public policy organization, authored numerous books and articles, and taught at two universities. He is often quoted by news media throughout North America, the Caribbean, and elsewhere. 
Ralph Buglass, a Montgomery County native and avid history buff, has taught at lifelong learning institutes associated with Johns Hopkins and American universities and Montgomery College. He speaks frequently to community groups, businesses, and other organizations as well as at national conferences. He is also a docent at Montgomery Parks’ restored Kingsley schoolhouse in Clarksburg’s Little Bennett Park. A graduate of Winston Churchill High School, he has a B.A. in American history from Cornell and an M.A. in journalism from American University.
Duane Carey is the President of The Maryland Free Enterprise Foundation (“Maryland Free”) and owner of IMPACT Marketing & Public Relations. Maryland Free is a statewide, nonpartisan political research and education organization supported by corporations, trade associations, chambers of commerce, small businesses, and individuals. They were founded in 1983 as Maryland Business for Responsive Government and changed the name in 2019 to better reflect their mission. Duane Carey is a frequent author and presenter of marketing seminars and workshops throughout Maryland. MBA, Johns Hopkins University; Winner: Business Person of the Year Award, Howard County Chamber of Commerce, 2014; Gubernatorial Appointee: Governor Hogan’s One Maryland Blue Ribbon Commission; Trustee, Howard Hospital Foundation, Howard County General Hospital; Past Chair, Howard County Chamber of Commerce.
Brian J. Feldman represents the 15th Legislative District in the Maryland State Senate. He is the Vice Chair of the prestigious Senate Finance Committee and chairs its Energy and Public Utilities Subcommittee. Additionally, he is the Senate Chair of the Maryland Health Insurance Coverage Protection Commission and serves as a member of the Executive Nominations Committee and the Joint Committee on Legislative Ethics. He is also a member of the Maryland Economic Development Commission and, on a national level, a member of two task forces for the National Conference of State Legislatures – The Executive Committee Task Force on State and Local Taxation and The Energy Supply Task Force.
By Frederique Irwin: Betty is a woman who radiates kindness and love. She is also a tenacious business owner who has demonstrated incredible courage and perseverance to build a wonderful place for aging persons to reside. Betty is the founder of LAYTONSVILLE ESTATES, an assisted living home for independent-minded residents who want to enjoy elegant comfort as well as genuine and devoted care. After 15 years of working in local area nursing homes, she felt dissatisfied with the care and treatment that the residents were receiving. She wanted to make a difference, but she did not know where to begin. After three of her four children left for college, Betty convinced her husband to convert their house into an assisted living home; she spent months going through the regulatory requirements (including having to move out and live somewhere else) to become an official business. She has endured countless setbacks and expenses that she did not anticipate, but she continued (and still continues!) to move forward to build her vision of a home where people could come and feel respected, loved, and welcome. Betty’s compassion for those around her and her respect for all people make her not only a woman we admire in business, but a woman we admire as an individual. She is truly a special person who is making a very big difference in the lives of people who deserve it the most.
Billy D. Louis is an Information Technology Specialist working on Capitol Hill for the Architect of the Capitol, where he serves as the Manager of the Project Management Branch within the IT Division. Mr. Louis has over 30 years of experience in computer networking and project management, and has worked for several organizations including the American Red Cross, Chevy Chase Bank, including 21 years of Federal Service. In his professional career, Mr. Louis has deployed and managed computer networks and Internet infrastructure. Mr. Louis has provided a variety of IT services to NOAA including leading the effort to consolidate the disparate email system into one corporate enterprise email system. At the American Red Cross, Mr. Louis organized the automation of nearly 100 Red Cross bureaus, including Blood Regions, Key Resource Chapters, Field Service Offices, and Military-base service to the Armed Forces. Mr. Louis has a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Information Systems, and numerous technical and project management certificates. Billy Louis is married to his lovely wife Marilyn V. Louis. They have four children, three daughters and one son, and has been a resident of Bowie, MD for the past 20 years. Mr. Louis officially joined Rotary International in 2014. He is a polio survivor and will speak on "Living With Polio."
Dr. Van Blarcom worked at the United Nations, U.S. Department of State, U.S. Agency for International Development, and U.S. Library of Congress. Her experience includes interpreting national and international legislation, building capacity of governments, training, research and designing/assessing customs and trade projects on various assignments including those for the European Union, the World Bank, and the Asian Development Bank. She has traveled to 48 countries including work in custom administrations in Ethiopia (2018-2019), Ghana, Bangladesh, Zambia, as well as teaching at a Customs Academy and various Foreign Service Institutes (e.g., Ghana, United States, Philippines). Last month she started her own company, Customs and Border Management Services LLC. Dr. Van Blarcom attended the Knowledge Academy at the World Customs Organization in Brussels (2019), studied international trade law at Sydney Law School, has a doctorate from England (international trade), and master degrees from Columbia University (International Affairs) and the University of Minnesota (Economics).
Jan Bresch is the Executive Director of Special Love, Inc., a non-profit whose mission is to provide a community of support for children with cancer and their families. Special Love provides a nurturing environment of free camps and programs, while helping with emergency financial assistance and educational scholarships for young survivors. She is responsible for leading all aspects of Special Love’s mission to support children with cancer and their families. Jan joined Special Love in 2018 after serving as a member of its Board of Directors. Prior to Special Love, she was the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Prevent Cancer Foundation, and served as the Direc
tor of Development and Public Relations for the Children’s Inn at the National Institutes of Health, Public Broadcasting professional, advisor for other organizations such as Stupid Cancer and AOL.
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Townsend is the President & CEO of the Healthcare Initiative Foundation which supports organizations that offer solutions to improve the capacity, availability and the delivery of quality health and wellness services for Montgomery County residents. The Foundation has distributed over $83 million since inception particularly focused on the most vulnerable in our community. Townsend currently serves on the Leadership Montgomery Board, Committee for Montgomery Board, Regional Primary Coalition, Suburban Hospital Community Benefit Advisory Board, Washington Regional Association of Grantmakers Board, County Executive Transition Team, and the BlackRock Center for the Arts Gala Committee. Prior board service includes, Nonprofit Montgomery FIRM Advisory Committee, United Way of NCA, Friends of Wells Robertson House, Inc., and Montgomery County Social Services Board. Preceding her work with the Foundation, Townsend was the City of Gaithersburg's Community Services Director overseeing and coordinating health and human services for City residents. Prior to her service with the city, she served as the Family Support Services Administrator for Family Services, Inc. managing early intervention and home visiting programs. Earlier in her career, she was the Healthy Families Frederick Program Manager, Legislative Director for the U.S. Overseas Cooperative Development Council, a Peace Corps Volunteer in Romania, and the Domestic Violence Shelter Manager for Heartly House. Townsend attained her Bachelor of Arts from Hood College in Law and Society and holds a Master of Public Administration from Rutgers University from the International Public Service and Development Program. 
Mr. Shank is the Chief Engineer at the Maryland Aviation Administration overseeing the planning, design and construction of the airport’s multihundred million-dollar capital improvement and systems preservation programs at Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport and Martin State Airport. He oversees MAA’s Offices of Planning and Environmental Services; and Office of Engineering and Construction and; Office of Noise, Real Estate and Land Use Compatibility. Mr. Shank has over 40 years of experience in airport development and associated transportation, commercial and institutional development. His accomplishments are measured in billions of dollars of projects completed throughout the United States and overseas. He is a Professional Engineer and a Certified Member of the American Association of Airport Executives, and recipient of the 2015 AASHTO President’s Transportation Award for Aviation. Mr. Shank is a commercial pilot, flight instructor and aircraft owner. Aviation is his passion.
There are Paul Harris (PH) credits available for members to make up the $1000 donation required. It works this way: If you pay half of the amount you need for a PH fellowship, then the club will use available credits to make up the balance. So for instance say you already have
PH credits amounting to $ 600. If you donate another $200, then the club will match your amount with some of those credits bringing the total to $ 1000 and bringing you a PH fellowship! And Rotary benefits, too!
Andrew “Art” Arthur serves as Resident Fellow in Law and Policy for the Center for Immigration Studies, a Washington, DC-based research institute that examines the impact of immigration on American society. He began his legal career through the Attorney General’s Honors Program as a clerk to Administrative Law Judge Joseph E. McGuire in the Office of the Chief Administrative Hearing Officer at the United States Department of Justice, Executive Office for Immigration Review. After a two-year clerkship with Judge McGuire, he received a second Honors Program appointment as a Trial Attorney in the San Francisco District Counsel’s Office, and later the Baltimore District Counsel’s Office, of the former Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS). In 1999, he was promoted to the INS’s General Counsel’s Office in Washington DC, first as an Associate General Counsel, and later as an Assistant General Counsel and Acting Chief of the INS National Security Law Division. In the General Counsel’s Office, Mr. Arthur supervised attorneys handling cases involving espionage, terrorism, and persecutors. He also advised the Attorney General, Deputy Attorney General, and INS Commissioner on issues relating to national security. In July 2001, Mr. Arthur left the INS to become a Counsel on the House Judiciary Committee, where he performed oversight of immigration issues. After five years at House Judiciary, he was appointed to the immigration bench, serving for eight years as an Immigration Judge at the York Immigration Court in York, Pennsylvania. At the beginning of the 114th Congress, Judge Arthur left the bench and came back to Capitol Hill, where he served as Staff Director of the National Security Subcommittee at House Oversight and Government Reform before taking retirement from federal service in September 2016. He is a graduate of the University of Virginia (BA 1988), and of the George Washington University School of Law (JD 1992).
Chief J. Thomas Manger has been the Chief of Police in Montgomery County, Maryland, since February 2004. He began his law enforcement career in 1977 with the Fairfax County (Virginia) Police Department. He rose through the ranks to become Chief of Police in 1998. During his tenure in Fairfax County, Chief Manger received numerous awards including the Silver Medal of Valor. Chief Manger is credited with reorganizing and expanding the Police Department’s Community Policing efforts. His commitment to the highest ethical standards for policing and his enactment of new policies to increase departmental accountability earned significant recognition from the community, including the Fairfax County Human Rights Commission Award for outstanding contributions, and the N.A.A.C.P.’s Community Service Leadership Award. In 2012, Chief Manger was inducted into the Montgomery County Human Rights Hall of Fame. Chief Manger is a graduate of the F.B.I. National Academy, the National Executive Institute, the Police Executive Leadership School at the University of Richmond, and the Senior Executive Institute at the University of Virginia, and he has also completed Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School’s Program for State and Local government. Following his retirement in March 2019, Chief Manger is now the Senior Associate Director for the Major Cities Chiefs Association Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs
Evolved from its beginnings in 2006, what is now Exerceo, started as Co-founder, Brian Walsh's desire and commitment to give back to the community. Brian tirelessly taught and mentored people living in his Howard County community. His original focus on high school students quickly expanded to college students and adults of all ages looking to begin careers in the IT field. Brian's IT services business, Sofiac, Inc. was used as a vehicle to offer unique hands on experience to the people he mentored and trained. 
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Kevin M. Coleman is the founder of KMC Empowerment where he provides empowering speeches, leadership training, and coaching to help make individuals and organizations successful. 
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This week's guest speaker is Pedro Zavarce, CEO and Senior Producer, of PZ Video. PZ Video Productions, Inc. is a full-service production company with over 25 years of professional production experience, providing creative video, audio and photography solutions to a range of clients, from small to large corporations.
Julie 
Julie Meade is a Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia. An awardee of the Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award Individual Predoctoral Fellowship, her dissertation work focuses on the neuroscience and pharmacology of drug use, depression, and chronic pain.
The Montgomery County Planning Board sets policy on parks and planning issues, prepares master plans for County Council action, and acts as the final decision-maker in subdivision reviews and for site, sketch and project plans. The Board makes recommendations to the County Council, the Board of Appeals, the school system, and other local, county, state, and federal agencies on projects affecting land use. The Planning Board reviews and makes recommendations on the County’s Capital Improvements Program, reviews and approves land acquisitions and major park development contracts, and approves plans to develop park facilities.
Strathmore is a nonprofit multi-disciplinary arts center and presenting organization based one-half mile outside the Capital Beltway in North Bethesda. Best known for performances and events at the Music Center at Strathmore, the organization has been presenting accessible, affordable visual and performing arts in the smaller Mansion at Strathmore and all over its 16-acre site since 1981. Strathmore also presents throughout the community and at a new 250-seat venue, AMP, at Pike & Rose. 
Dr. Mary Lynne Dittmar is President and CEO of the Coalition for Deep Space Exploration, an industry trade group supporting human exploration, science, and commerce in deep space. Under her leadership the Coalition has grown from 5 companies to more than 60 over the past three years and is a well-regarded source of information, policy thought leadership, and education in support of NASA’s programs, the aerospace industry, and national leadership in space.
Bill Carey is the Director of Donor and Community Relations and is responsible for the day-to-day administration of the membership programs, special fundraising activities, and the community relations programs for Strathmore. Prior to joining Strathmore in 2002, Mr. Carey served as the Deputy Director of Public Affairs for the financial regulator, the Federal Housing Finance Board in Washington, D.C. Mr. Carey retired from government service in 2000. He is a resident of Kensington, MD and works for the National Hockey League as an off-ice official. 
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those who seek to improve the state of the world. These conversations are intended to ennoble public service, create a platform for positive civil discourse, and facilitate dialogue with difference.
reflects Philip Tarnoff’s intimate knowledge of the workings of Federal and State governments as well as those of the private sector. During his half-century of employment, Mr. Tarnoff has observed a gradual decline in the effectiveness of the agencies with which he worked while watching the continued growth of their bureaucracies. His activities have included contact with many state and federal agencies, most recently focusing on the operation of the nation’s highway transportation system, a pursuit for which he has received many awards. As our government continues to pour vast sums of money into defense while its infrastructure crumbles, it becomes increasingly clear that the US is following the path of the Roman civilization whose investments in military superiority dwarfed expenditures on the Empire’s other critical needs, while doing little to deter its enemies. His first book, The Road Ahead, which discusses potential improvements in transportation operations has received universal acclaim. It is now followed by a work of fiction, In the footsteps of Rome, which exposes the weaknesses of a deteriorating society.
Jerry Pasternak is Pepco Region Vice President, Maryland. In that capacity, he serves as Pepco’s primary liaison to political, business, community, non-profit and consumer leaders throughout the company’s Maryland service territory. From 1994 to 2006, Jerry served as Special Assistant to Montgomery County Executive Doug Duncan. As the senior political and policy advisor to the County Executive, Jerry contributed strategies for public policy decisions and provided oversight, guidance and direction to ensure successful implementation of policy objectives for more than 25 departments and agencies within the county. Among his more notable achievements, Jerry helped engineer the redevelopment of Silver Spring and the development of the Music Center at Strathmore, the Montgomery County Conference Center, and Rockville Town Center. 
Ronnie T. Davis is the president and founder of Longstream Coaching and Training LLC. With the desire to help people reach their potential and vision, Ronnie has taken herself from educator to certified coach and trainer. With twenty years of motivating individuals to plan, achieve and succeed, Ronnie works with individuals, groups and businesses providing personalized coaching and training.
Tom and Lucy Leuchtenburg were honored at the Rotary Club Meeting on July 19, 2018, for many years of service. They are relocating to Chapel Hill, North Carolina, where they plan to continue involvement with Rotary.
Rotary District Governor Rich Glover made his official visit to the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club on July 19, 2018. President Todd Nitkin thanked him for his presentation.
ich is a member of Southern Frederick County Rotary, Frederick County, Maryland; One of 4 Clubs in Frederick County, comprising of approximately 22% of membership of 61 Clubs in District 7620.
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Katey Boerner, Executive Director, Glen Echo Park, will speak about one of the finest cultural resources in the Washington, DC area at the Rotary Club meeting on June 21, 2018. Katey is also the President-Elect of the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rotary Club. Glen Echo Park is home to 13 resident artists and arts organizations, a thriving social dance program, a restored 1921 Dentzel Carousel, two award-winning children's theaters, a weekend drop-in art program for children, numerous art studios and galleries, a nature program, and hundreds of classes in visual and performing arts, including ceramics, painting, photography, glass, music, dance, and more. These activities, as well as free summer concerts, festivals, and special events bring thousands of visitors to the Park each year.
Kim Prothro Williams is an architectural historian with the D.C. Historic Preservation Office. For more than twenty-five years, she has been researching and writing about historic buildings and communities in D.C., Virginia and Maryland, with her primary focus being to evaluate buildings for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. Kim is a published author of books, articles and heritage trail brochures dealing with the built environment. Two of her books, “Chevy Chase: A Home Suburb for the Nation’s Capital” and “Pride of Place: Rural Residences of Fauquier County, Virginia,” address the transformation of the agricultural landscape. Her most recent title is “Lost Farms and Estates of Washington, D.C.,” which explores the rural remnants of the nation’s capital.
Marissa Cummings Leslie, MD has dual board certification in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and General Psychiatry. She is currently the Medical Director of both Inpatient and Outpatient Services for Adventist HealthCare Behavioral Health & Wellness Services in Rockville, Maryland. She completed her Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and University of Pennsylvania program in 2007. She completed her General Psychiatry residency at Loma Linda University in Southern California in 2005. She has previous research collaborative experience in anti-violence and anti-bullying studies at CHOP. She has also holds a certificate from the Harvard Program in Refugee Trauma. Her main academic interest is PTSD in immigrants and refugees. 
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k on the “Challenges of Growth and Development in Montgomery County.” He is Vice President of Land Acquisition and Development at EYA. McLean’s responsibilities include new deal sourcing and acquisitions, entitlement and predevelopment, and overall project stewardship. He has led underwriting and negotiations for numerous projects at EYA and is currently leading the entitlement effort on three large residential redevelopments in Montgomery County, including EYA's Shady Grove Station redevelopment. Before joining EYA, McLean evaluated opportunistic real estate investments for Morgan Stanley's Real Estate Fund (MSREF) in New York and worked in private equity and investment banking at Wells Fargo in Charlotte, North Carolina. He has a BA in political science from Davidson College and an MBA with Distinction from the Kellogg School of Management, where he was an Austin Scholar.
President Todd Nitkin thanked former Rockville Mayor and current County Executive Candidate Rose Krasnow for her presentation.
Rose Krasnow served two terms on the Rockville City Council and three terms as Rockville Mayor. She was Director of the Montgomery County United Way, Chief of Development Review at the Maryland National Park & Planning Commission, and in 2013 became the Deputy Director. Rose managed the Zoning Code Rewrite team, overseeing an effort that led to the adoption of a new zoning code in October of 2014. She is currently a candidate for County Executive. Guests are invited for dinner ($26). 
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Paul D. McDermott is Professor Emeritus at Montgomery College. He is the author of seven books and the only community college visiting scholar at the Geography and Map Division of the Library of Congress. He will be coming with an illustrated presentation on the C&O Canal. He has prepared maps of the canal that will be available for purchase at the meeting. Now that spring is here and the blossoms will be coming out, his topic is so appropriate, "Strolling on the C&O Canal." 
Valentine's Gifts to Homeless Women were beautiful pashmina scarves from Gladys Howard. Rotarians dined at the Far East Restaurant in Rockville..jpg)
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John Barrett Townsend II currently serves as the Manager of Public and Government Relations for AAA Mid-Atlantic in its Washington office. His professional background encompasses varied careers in broadcast journalism, local government, the high tech industry, and Capitol Hill. Prior to joining AAA Mid-Atlantic he served as a Communications Director and Legislative Assistant for U.S. Representative Scotty Baesler for the Sixth District of Kentucky. For nearly a decade he was the Press Secretary for the Mayor of Lexington. All told, he has served three members of Congress as a speech writer or Communications Director. He is also a veteran of political campaigns on the local, statewide, and national levels.
Tom and Barbara Allen gave a mini-forum on "Opioid Awareness" at the Rotary Club meeting on January 11, 2018. Their nonprofit James’ Place Inc. provides education, advocacy and scholarships for recovery housing. 
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Tom & Barbara Allen are passionate advocates for all things substance related. Their Maryland based nonprofit 
John McCarthy, States Attorney, Montgomery County, spoke about Opioid Addiction at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Meeting on December 14, 2017. Pictured [L-R] are John McCarthy, P-B President Todd Nitkin and Rotary District Governor Greg Wims.
Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Holiday Party on December 21 at Bretton Woods Recreation Center. 
Sander Benjamin Cohen, born August 26, 1984 in Washington , DC., died at the age of 33 on December 8, 2017. He heroically passed serving in the Line of Duty for the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office. Sander is survived by his loving parents Dr. Neil and Arlene Soodak Cohen, his beloved dog Mia, and grandmother Rose Soodak; he is preceded by his late grandparents Robert Soodak and Minnie and Samuel Cohen. He also leaves behind six aunts and uncles (Teresa and Joel Soodak; Howard and Carol Cohen; Sondra and David Cohen), as well as four cousins (Jessica and Ethan Soodak; Rebecca and Samuel Cohen).
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in the Maryland General Assembly in 2003 as a Student Page. More recently, he worked for two years as a Legislative Aide for Delegate Keith E. Haynes in the House of Delegates. During this time, Jordan gained professional experience solving problems and providing answers to constituents in need of assistance. Jordan pursued his MSPH in Health Policy with the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. As a health care policy advisor at the National Partnership for Women and Families, he wrote comments pertaining to the implementation of the Affordable Care Act on the use of quality measurement to improve value in health care.
baum (PhD in Economics, University of Michigan, 1995) is Senior Advisor for Mental Health Services, Epidemiology, and Economics in the National Institute of Mental Health's Division of Services and Intervention Research. He conducts analyses of mental health burden, service use and costs, intervention opportunities, and other policy-related issues, in support of Institute decision-making; and he works to strengthen NIMH's relationships with public and private stakeholders, to increase the public health impact of NIMH-supported research. Dr. Schoenbaum's research has focused particularly on the costs and benefits of interventions to improve health and health care, evaluated from the perspectives of patients, providers, payers and society.
October 26, 2017, was a Rotary Club Social at Bretton Woods, the First Since the Passing of Arthur Blitz.
Clyde Prestowitz is founder and President of the Economic Strategy Institute. His leadership has propelled ESI into an important role in the public policy process, influencing and often defining the terms of the debate in the areas of international trade policy, economic competitiveness, and the effects of globalization. Mr. Prestowitz has played key roles in achieving congressional passage of NAFTA and in shaping the final content of the Uruguay Round, as well as providing the intellectual basis for current U.S. trade policies toward Japan, China, and Korea. 
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rts in their field. She helps them achieve greater financial success by showing them how to effortlessly attract their ideal clients, overcome debilitating boom and bust cycles, confidently charge the true value of their products and services, and shed patterns of procrastination and stress.
on in Washington DC and an associated research professor at Sorbonne University’s UPMC in Paris. As a marine geoscientist he has been honored by several professional awards in and marine sciences in the US and Europe. He was elected a member of European Academy of Sciences, and was honored by Sorbonne with doctoris honoris causa degree for his works on sea-level changes of the Phanerozoic and the impact of the on-going sea-level rise on maritime nations. Haq has broad experience in the academia, the industry and the government, and has also held assignments with the White House and the World Bank in Washington DC. He has taught or undertaken research as a visiting professor at many universities around the world, including MIT, Oxford, Cambridge, Copenhagen, Paris, and at Tongji University in China. His research career also includes a twelve-years tenure at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and six years with Exxon Production Research Company.
The 2017 Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club Dictionary Project kicks off on October 3 at Seven Locks Elementary School with Poolesville Elementary School scheduled for October 12. There are more schools to be added to the schedule and you may sign up to assist under "Events." For more information contact Alan Grant at 301-258-1033 or agrant@grantlaw.net..jpg)
Roderick’s personal journey of facing–and overcoming–seemingly insurmountable obstacles is the foundation of his deeply personal and energizing presentations. He engages every member of the audience through his message of hope and endurance. Along with over 1,500 candidates, Roderick applied for a District of Columbia firefighter position in 1989. Passing both the written and physical agility exams, Roderick finished in the top 1% of all candidates. Roderick is a member of the National Speakers Association and a seasoned member of the Toastmasters International. Numerous audiences, from non-profits to social organizations and local schools, have enjoyed Roderick’s engaging, entertaining, and motivating messages of empowerment. Many small and large corporations throughout the region have experienced Roderick’s skill and professionalism as a presenter and trainer.
Greg Wims is a 6th generation Marylander with 49 years of volunteer service to the community. He has served on many nonprofit boards, University of Maryland Dental School, Universities at Shady Grove, Montgomery College, YMCA, Kennedy Center and Boys and Girls Club just to name a few. He presently serves on the Congressional Bank Board in the Metro Washington DC area. He founded the Victims’ Rights Foundation 21 years ago to help victims of violent crime. They just opened a preschool in Kenya 6 months ago. Greg is a Paul Harris fellow and a Paul Harris Society member. He is a member of the Bethesda Chevy Chase Rotary Club. He is married to Michelle and has three children and two grandkids. Please welcome Greg Wims, District Governor. 
is an American author, inspirational speaker, and ultra-athlete. His self-help and personal development books cover the topics of personal transformation, self-help, psychology of success, and high achievement.
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George Clack will lead a discussion on sanctuary cities and immigration issues. He is a member of the Howard County chapter of Indivisible, a grassroots organization made up of individuals concerned about the current Administration's policy agenda.
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Kenneth M. Trombly, Esq.
Our own Neil Cohen -- a highly experienced and well traveled participant in frequent flyer programs -- will share with us his wisdom on how to accumulate air travel bonus miles and how to optimize the benefits of these programs. As Neil says, "Why pay when you can fly for free?" 
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Larry Margolis passed away suddenly on January 18, 2017, after delivering dictionaries to 3rd graders.
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Our own in-house counsel Arthur Blitz will speak on Joseph Ellis' book "The Quartet." Published in 2015, Ellis focused on four men who he asserts lead the transition from the ineffectual Articles of Confederation to what he describes as the founding of "American nationhood," the creation, adoption, and effectualization of th
e U.S. Constitution. Those identified as the "Quartet" were George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, and James Madison. According to the author, three important "supporting players" were Robert Morris, Gouverneur Morris and Thomas Jefferson. Expert in legal thinking, Art Blitz is sure to provide a concise summary and analysis, which should make for an illuminating and memorable presentation.
ph Goldberg is a "defense intellectual" who worked for over three decades on actual and emerging international "hotspots." His talk will focus on India and will cover a broad range of issues, including the potential for terrorist activity in India.
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Dr. Susan Rich is a psychiatrist who practices in Potomac, MD. She recently authored a book on fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) titled The Silent Epidemic: A Child Psychiatrist's Journey Beyond Death Row. Focusing on anxiety and neurodevelopmental disorders in children, adolescents, and adults, Dr. Rich is committed to the diagnosis and treatment of prenatal alcohol exposure. A nationally known speaker in the field of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, she was named one of Washington, DC's Top Doctors in 2010 and 2015 by the Washingtonian Magazine and was selected as one of America's Top Psychiatrists by the Consumer Research Council of America 2008-2014. She received the distinction of "Most Compassionate Physician" by CRCA in 2012. Dr. Rich currently serves as President-Elect of the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Society of Greater Washington.
President Bob Fuhrman thanked Rotary District Governor Dr. Anna-Mae Kobbe for her presentation during the official visit at the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club on August 25, 2016. 
had a happy childhood and a home filled with love.
On August 9, 2016, we packed 192 boxes of food at Manna Food Center for needy families in Montgomery County. 
Dr. Todd Nitkin is going to lay out his thinking about a Global Grant Project he is championing. This is a chance for our Club members to learn about his proposal and to ask questions.
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Larry Heilman, PhD, a member of the Metro Bethesda Rotary Club, will talk about the problems he experienced while working on international development projects in Nepal, Bangladesh, Guatemala, Mexico, Bolivia, and Burkina Faso as an employee of the U.S. Agency for International Development. 
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Dr. Stephen Hellman has practiced in Montgomery County for the past 30 years and has extensive experience in all components of internal medicine. His expertise extends to Nephrology (kidney diseases) with a degree from Georgetown University. 
eran diplomat, represented the United States at embassies throughout Europe and at international organizations such as the United Nations, NATO, and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development. As political advisor to U.S. military commanders in Europe and Africa, he worked in conflict mediation. As an economic diplomat, he has helped to open foreign markets to U.S. investors and traders on a fair and equal basis. During academic years 2005-2007 he was faculty member at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor and faculty fellow at Telluride House. As an international lecturer on anti-corruption and good governance, he has worked in more than 30 countries throughout Latin America, Africa, and Europe. He engages audiences with passion and expertise, offering a look “behind the scenes” at how foreign cultures view the world. Bob holds graduate degrees from Berkeley and Harvard, an undergraduate degree from Cornell, and he is fluent in five Romance languages.
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In honor of Valentine's Day, Potomac-Bethesda Rotary presented pashmina shawls to residents at Sophia's House in Rockville, Maryland. Sophia's House provides emergency shelter for women with mental illness, substance abuse, trauma or long term disabilities. This annual presentation of gifts is led by Rotarian Dr. Noel Howard and his wife, Gladys Howard. Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Foundation supports various projects in the local community related to housing and education.
This Thursday's meeting at Normandie Farm Restaurant is a Club Assembly and Election of Officers for 2016-2017. The discussion will include changes in membership, the Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club-sponsored Global Grant application for Nepal, grants for local charitable activities, and election of officers.
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Dean G. Pruitt is Distinguished Scholar in Residence at the Institute for Conflict Analysis and Resolution at George Mason University and SUNY Distinguished Professor Emeritus at the University at Buffalo. He has received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Association for Confli
LOUIS E. FETTIG, 98, Obstetrician-Gynecologist and USAF Captain, affectionately known as "Opa", of Charlotte, NC, formerly of Potomac, MD, died Sunday, August 30, 2015 after a brief illness. Born June 21, 1917 in Phila., PA, he was a son of the late Mr. Louis and Bertha Weiser Fettig. He was a graduate of 
Dr. Allen 
No meeting at Normandie Farm This Week:
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Yes, I am at home. On June 23 I had a procedure at Sibley known as ERCP to remove two large gallstones from my common bile duct. I was released from Sibley on June 25, in time to attend my daughter's wedding over the weekend of June 27 in the Inner Harbor, Baltimore. Spectacular wedding. On July 2, I was re-admitted to Sibley for removal of my gallbladder -- laparoscopic surgery. I'm recovering nicely but expect to be at home for at least another 3 or 4 days. Feel free to share with the Rotary Club. .jpg)
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Jarrod Borkat is a 15‐year veteran in the biopharmaceutical industry. He currently serves as MedImmune's Senior Director, External Partnerships & Collaborations. In this role he is responsible for establishing and overseeing broad scale collaborations with universities, non‐profit organizations and government entities, across all the therapeutic areas relevant to MedImmune. MedImmune was founded in 1988 in Gaithersburg and now has a global presence with 2,500 people in the US and UK.
Guest speaker Richard Kreutzberg is writing a book aimed at solving the root cause of the problems of disadvantaged kids - illustrated dramatically by the events in Baltimore this month. The solution is to offer these kids a needs driven curriculum in school rather than the present one-size-fits-all pre-college curriculum that has little to do with furnishing the tools they need to succeed in life and the world of work. 
Rotary International Scholars [L-R] Misa Azuma (Japan), Will Todman (England), Jun Sugihara (Japan) and Alessia Thiebaud (Italy) spoke at the 35th Annual Potomac-Bethesda Rotary Club's International Night hosted by the Bretton Woods Recreation Center. Governor Bill Fine, President Caesar Kavadoy, President Elect Bob Fuhrman, International Night Chair Melanie Weerakoon, MCs Art Blitz and Judd Gould and Silent Auction Announcers Chinyere Amaeule and Monica Farmer highlighted the evening.
u is a reporter for the Epoch Times. The Epoch Times is an independent medium that publishes in 21 languages in 35 countries, and reports uncensored news about China. Teresa has covered greater DC local news, U.S.-China relationships, international & Asia issues, human right issues, etc. 
Will Todman is from a very small village in England, and graduated from Oxford last summer where he studied Arabic and Modern Hebrew. He's now doing an MA in Arab Studies at the School of Foreign Service at Georgetown, with a focus on Middle East politics and humanitarian emergencies. He's currently working part time for an advisor to the UN's Special Envoy to Syria too. He'll talk a little about where he's from in England, a bit about Oxford, and then about what he has been doing at Georgetown so far. Last month he traveled to north Jordan with one of his professors to help her with her research with Syrian refugees.
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Greetings Rotarians and Friends: 
President Elect Tom Leuchtenburg and Bob Nelson represented our club at the g
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"I finally made it. Now I am so sore that I can't climb up my stairs at home. I will send more details later once I get situated, but here are a couple of pictures. See you Thursday night, but I will be hobbling.""
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