Issues are arranged in reverse order. Scroll down to find the issue you want.
March 31, 2005
COMING EVENTS
April 7 - America's Changing Military Role - General George "Jim" Eade, USAF Retired w/Eric Gunheim
April 14 - Northbay Children's Center – Susan Gilmore w/Lou Steinberg
April 21 - Goodwill Industry Challenges – Peter Lee w/Jim Becker
GENE BENEDETTI, answering PRESIDENT BABE’s call, started the meeting with God Bless America preceded — of course — by his signature ditty, “I’m a rambler, I’m a gambler, I’m a green lumber handler . . .”
Up next was HEIDI KIBBE for her Thought for the Day, a favorite poem about answering the Lord.
Several Rotarians brought guests, the youngest (and cutest) of which was NANCY KOENITZER’s 11-year-old daughter, Victoria.
Two of the guests, definitely older, were themselves Rotarians and thus received a second introduction, this time by BRIDGET DOHERTY.
PRESIDENT BABE announced a wonderful opportunity for our members — the opportunity to become a Paul Harris Fellow at amazing discount rates. While this might sound like an infomercial, you can actually get your Paul Harris at 50% off! For the next two weeks, the Club will match your contribution dollar-for-dollar up to $500 per member. Since the MSRP is $1,000 and most members have already made a substantial contribution, this is an excellent time to reach the goal.
Shifting from the give away money mode, PRESIDENT BABE started collecting money.
It was fine time. First up was RICK VAN BEBBER. Seems he muffed his opportunity to get KAREN a necklace at Costco and she ended up buying a pricey one during an 8-day cruise to Mexico. All this cost Rick $80 (plus the necklace, plus the cruise, etc.).
Sporting a necklace — but was it THE necklace? — KAREN VAN BEBBER thanked Rotarians for helping at a recent Interact event at the Russian River. She also thanked the rain for helping separate the boys from the girls (or was it the other way around?).
Blaming his wife for impulse shopping (for a new trailer?), ALDEN HENNINGS admitted to upgrading to a new fifth-wheel trailer. He mumbled something about 42 years of marriage as he reached into his wallet for $50.
STEVE HENRIS admitted to being away a lot (hunting in Colorado, golf in Arizona, a week with the family at Tahoe) and paid $100 for his travels. Then, inspired by BABE’s infomercial, he put down $500 for his Paul Harris.
WALLY BRAGDON, recently honored as Petaluma’s Citizen of the Year, was assessed $100 for this recognition. In addition, WALLY announced he was purchasing a Paul Harris in the name of his wife, Marilyn.
Fellow awardee DICK WEBER, Petaluma’s Agriculture Person of the Year, was on the carpet next. After accusing him of being an animal rights activist (“Didn’t I see you demonstrating outside my place?”) BABE fined DICK $100 as well.
Sitting at the Birthday Table were MARK STOKES, JIM McCAFFREY, LINDA ZACHARIN, STEVE RUSTAD, and RICH POREMBA. They were assessed the customary $5 fine but watch out, STEVE OLMSTEAD: MARK wasn’t on the list you submitted. Expect a fine when you return!
After a mystery visitor (who was that masked man?) won a bottle of wine (next week’s raffle will be worth $200), ONITA PELLEGRINI began a presentation on the Leadership Petaluma program.
She was followed by Frances De Jong, Customer Services Manager at the Bank of Petaluma, who described her experiences as a participant in the leadership program.
. . .
This week's Rota-Teller editor: Al Cattalini.
Next Week:
Set-Up: Mike Maddalena & Fred Frost
Fine Can: Gina Pittler
Microphone: James Gotelli
Visitors: Linda Zacharin
Editor: Mike Baddeley
April 14:
Set-Up: Chet Swanson & John Scharer
Fine Can: Ricardo Marzo
Microphone: Stan Lawson
Visitors: Greta Viguie
Editor: Lou Steinberg
March 24, 2005
COMING EVENTS
March 31 - Leadership Petaluma - Frances De Jong w/Onita Pellegrini
April 7 - America's Changing Military Role - General George "Jim" Eade, USAF Retired w/Eric Gunheim
A very weak bell (apparently the gavel was missing) sounded at precisely 12:30 and PRESIDENT BABE brought the meeting to order.
GENE BENEDETTI led us in a jolly rendition of “I’m a Rambler” followed by an enthusiastic “God Bless America”.
MIKE BADDELEY gave the invocation. He talked about the burden we put on ourselves with the stress we encounter daily. We need to manage it by putting it to rest and picking it up later. He followed this serious subject with a slew of one liners that had the crowd laughing as only MIKE can do.
The usual hugs and handshakes quickly followed. HEIDI KIBBE introduced the visiting Rotarians. The Rotarians with guests were then introduced.
John Fitzgerald brought a challenge to the podium from the Valley Club. There’s a canoe race on April 23rd. That’s Butter and Eggs Day. Any interested parties need to start practicing.
LOU STEINBERG is still looking for a host family for our youth exchange student. Please call LOU if you are interested.
LARRY JONAS was the first victim of PRESIDENT BABE’s wrath of fines. Someone stole LARRY’s white “Jack in the Box” helmet and replaced it with the PREZ’s gavel. It cost LARRY $5 to give it back. (LARRY did find his helmet after the meeting in the garbage can).
ONITA PELLEGRINI had her picture in the Press Democrat with an article about her recent appointment to the SRJC’s Board of Directors. Since ONITA was replacing Kathleen Doyle, the PREZ wanted to know if that meant she was now RALPH BETTINELLI’s new girlfriend. ONITA just shook her head and offered up $25.
The PRESIDENT asked all the presenters and the recipients of the Community Recognition Awards to please stand and be congratulated. No fines were assessed except for RALPH SARTORI. RALPH, after returning from a trip to Missouri, had a cocktail at home which caused him to be late. The cocktail cost him $5.
NANCY KOENITZER quickly offered up $100 when PRESIDENT BABE started talking about her recent trip to Mexico. Mmmmmm???
NORM SANTOS paid $50 for his recent attendance at a golf tournament in Reno sponsored by the Nugget, even though it was snowing.
PRESIDENT BABE wanted $100 from WHITNEY HALL for the article about him in the paper. WHITNEY quickly disputed the amount. He blamed TAWNY for not accepting a make-up he attended in New Mexico. He was at a place with live chickens and their waste, so he thought he must be at a Rotary meeting. PRESIDENT BABE smiled and TAWNY paid $5 and WHITNEY paid the $100.
STEVE RUSTAD was in trouble next for misspelling Rotarian names in his cartoons. He figured his big sins were going to cost him big money. He was right. It was $100.
The PREZ was on a roll. He then asked PAUL LOUNIBOS to stand. PAUL replied, “I am standing”. Apparently PAUL and his family have recently had a street named in their honor. The street is Lounibos Lane and since he was the only Lounibos there, it cost him $100.
It’s been awhile since JIM BECKER was in Thailand, but the PREZ had him in his notes and fined him $50 for being there.
The PREZ then held up a book titled “Heart Healing” with an article written by and a picture of KATHY BURROUGHS. After KATHY asked him if he read it, MIKE BADDLEY suggested that our PRESIDENT is only accustomed to pictures and articles that fold out. That cost MIKE $5 and Kathy $100.
The fines kept coming as NIT ANDERSON paid $30 for a 2 ˝ month vacation and a 3 month honeymoon. The honeymoon was 32 years ago.
STEVE POWELL paid $50 for a trip to Belize.
This editor was so busy writing, she missed the raffle. Congratulations to whoever won.
STEVE RUSTAD introduced Wayne Street as our guest speaker. Wayne is a teacher at Petaluma High School and the tennis coach. He spoke of the much needed renovations currently under way on the tennis courts.
. . .
This week's Rota-Teller editor: Loretta Catarozoli.
Next Week:
Set-Up: Michael White & Keith Solts
Fine Can: Steve Gavriloff
Microphone: Dan Reed
Visitors: Bridget Doherty
Editor: Al Cattalini
March 17, 2005
COMING EVENTS
March 24 - Renovation of PHS Tennis Courts - Wayne Street w/Steve Rustad
March 31 - Leadership Petaluma - Frances De Jong w/Onita Pellegrini
April 7 - America's Changing Military Role - General George "Jim" Eade, USAF Retired w/Eric Gunheim
President, BABE rang the meeting to order reminding us that he is president for the next three months at which time he was greeted with a large applause.
The "Wild Irishman", JIM McCAFFREY was called upon to lead us in song. After a dismal rendition. of "When Irish Eyes are Smiling" we redeemed ourselves and raised the roof with "My Country 'Tis of Thee."
JIM BECKER came forth to offer the thought for the day. Jim reminded us that, attitude is everything and that life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we react. At which time the handshakes, hugs and greetings commenced.
JIM MICKELSON introduced the visiting Rotarians,
SUNSHINE REPORT — A round of applause welcomed our friend and fellow Rotarian, DAVE AMUNDSEN back after a recent illness.
FARMERS NIGHT — RALPH SARTORI reported that Farmers Night was a huge success. He complimented President BABE on greeting all the tables with a bottle of wine.
YOUTH EXCHANGE STUDENT — LOU STEINBERG reported that we urgently need someone from our club to host the exchange student staying in Petaluma. Both clubs in Petaluma have hosted students arid it is our club's responsibility to house this young man for the next 3 months. Please consider this enriching experience and call LOU if you can help,
ANNOUNCEMENTS — ONITA PELLEGRINI invited one and all to help with the Rotary Float for Butter and Eggs Day, April 23. The float will be in cooperation with the two other Petaluma Clubs. Please contact ONITA to get on the email list. ONITA reminded us that the "2nd Annual Service Club Canoe Challenge on the Petaluma River" which will follow the parade, is looking for three-member team entries. Contact ONITA for information.
JOANNE FERRIS stepped up to the podium to report on the recent Mini Grant Winners. The committee received 20 requests for grants and 6 Petaluma teachers were awarded a total of $742, Mini Grants are funded from our weekly raffle.
CLARK ROSEN announced that we are looking for candidates for Ambassador Scholarships.
FINES - President BABE called upon CLARK ROSEN questioning him about a recent article in the paper, Our clever President was extorting a fine from CLARK, who was gracious and said he'd offer up $50 for the paper article, but would double his donation to the fine can if he could announce the upcoming Petaluma Day at PacBell Park, Friday, April 22. Tickets are $24.00 each and $7.00 of ticket sales will go directly to Petaluma. Educational Foundation. Check your calendars before the next meeting where CLARK will be taking sign ups.
ONITA PELLEGRINI and WALLY BRAGDON were called upon to explain their rather incriminating picture in the Argus where they were lip-locked. The article, which announced WALLY'S recent award as Citizen of the Year, and its picture cost them each $20.
DR. DAVE SISLER was called upon by President BABE and publicly thanked for saving BABE'S life. DOC SISLER spoke about his 49 years as a member of our club and the changes he has seen, not only in our club, but in our community. When President BABE swooped in for the fine, the DOC reminded him about the $300 donation he recently gave which President BABE was unaware. The Doctor escaped without donating to the fine can.
RAFFLE — DAVE BARBIERI was the holder of the winning ticket which in the end equaled a bottle of wine.
ONITA PELLEGRINI introduced our speaker for the day,
. . . youth advocate, volunteer and estate planning attorney Thom Knudsen.
Meeting was adjourned promptly at 1:30 p.m.
This week's Rota-Teller editor: Connie Heizer.
Next Week:
Set-Up: Stan Lawson & Ron Harris
Fine Can: Bill Groverman
Microphone: Paul Lounibos
Visitors: Fred Wulff
Editor: Loretta Catarozoli
March 31:
Set-Up: Michael White & Keith Solts
Fine Can: Steve Gavriloff
Microphone: Dan Reed
Visitors: Bridget Doherty
Editor: Al Cattalini
March 11, 2005
COMING EVENTS
March 17 - PHS Trojan Band trip to Washington, DC (WWII Memorial); Troop 8 backpacking - Thom Knudson
March 24 - Renovation of PHS Tennis Courts - Wayne Street w/Steve Rustad
The Farmers and Merchants Night Annual Get Together was well attended by over 200 Rotarians and guests. This year’s event was once again held at the Petaluma Veterans Hall. People started arriving at 6:00 p.m. to enjoy some Good Old Fashioned Socializing.
Thanks to KAREN VAN BEBBER, TENNY TUCKER, and BILL GROVERMAN along with the Jr. Interact Club the tables were set and ready for the evening.
STEVE HENRIS and PAUL RAMATICI made sure that the liquid refreshment stands were stocked and ready to go. JIM MICKELSON made sure that fine Kunde wine was on hand for the enjoyment of all.
TENNY TUCKER provided a decorative fence for the stage.
In the kitchen BILL DATER and the Adobe Harvest staff were making sure that the polenta and stew, along with the salad, and bread would be fit for a king and ready on time.
Petaluma Sr. High and St. Vincent High School Interact students along with members of Petaluma Future Farmers
. . . and our local District Three Dairy Princess were ready to assist in serving the meal.
Old time friend of many Sal Sage welcomed all to the Hall with his Singing and Guitar Playing.
PRESIDENT BABE finally got everyone’s attention around 7:20 P.M. President Babe asked everyone to stand for the song and invocation.
STEVE RUSTAD led the group in “God Bless America”. JIM MCCAFFREY gave a very inspiring Irish invocation, and PRESIDENT BABE then announced that dinner would be served. During Dinner Sal Sage played many old time favorite songs to the enjoyment of all.
After dinner PRESIDENT BABE announced that he had a special presentation to make to one of our Rotary Members who has supported our club for well over 40 years, especially with donations to The All Day Breakfast. President Babe asked DICK WEBER to come forward and accept a plaque acknowledging our Club’s appreciation for his many years of supporting Rotary. Dick was given a standing ovation by all in attendance.
PRESIDENT BABE then called MARCUS BENEDETTI and RALPH SARTORI to come forward for the program. It was explained that a raffle would be conducted with seven lucky winners. Thanks to the following companies for donating the prizes:
1. Rancho Veal - 12 lb. NY strip
2. Petaluma Poultry - 1 case chickens
3. Clover Stornetta Farms - 3/ 5 lb. blocks of cheese
4. Bob Giacomini & Family - Round of Pt. Reyes blue cheese
5. Dairy Farmers of America - 4 lb. of butter
6. M. Maselli and Sons - $100.00 gift certificate
7. Clover Stornetta Farms - Clover vest
After the program Boy Scouts from Troop 8 made sure that the tables were clean and assisted with general cleanup of the hall.
Many positive comments were received about the success of the evening. As co-Chairs MARCUS and RALPH would like to thank all of those people who worked so hard to make this event a success. Without the support of our members we could have not enjoyed such a wonderful evening.
For more photos from Farmers Night click here.
NEW MEMBER PROPOSAL
The club has received an application for induction of the following new member. If any member in good standing has an objection to this person, such objection should be made in writing to the club board of directors within 10 days of receipt of this notice:
This week's Rota-Teller editor: Ralph Sartori.
Next Week:
Set-Up: George Bunnell & Joanne Ferris
Fine Can: Bridget Doherty
Microphone: Jan Emery-Bailey
Visitors: Jim Mickelson
Editor: Connie Heizer
March 3, 2005
COMING EVENTS
March 10 - Club Dark (Farmers and Merchants Night, Friday, March 11)
March 11 - Farmers and Merchants Night, 6:30 p.m., Veterans Memorial Building, $25
March 17 - PHS Trojan Band trip to Washington, DC (WWII Memorial); Troop 8 backpacking - Thom Knudson
March 24 - Renovation of PHS Tennis Courts - Wayne Street w/Steve Rustad
PRESIDENT BABE AMARAL rang the bell at 12:30
. . . and called STEVE RUSTAD forward to lead us in song. BABE forgot the thought for the day,
. . . but RICARDO MARZO reminded us that despite the murder, mayhem, and molestation we hear about in the nightly news that we can still come together and honor accomplishments regardless of race or politics. RICARDO shared comments on the awarding of the Congressional Gold Medal to Jackie Robinson for his contributions to civil rights.
CONNIE HEIZER introduced the sole visiting Rotarian, past club member PAUL PRAETZEL.
RICK MOSSI shared fabulous news of the sales success for the Super Raffle. A record 1,703 tickets were sold this year (up from the previous record of 1,577). Captains JEANNETTE CLARK, ONITA PELLEGRINI, AL KAPLAN, WALLY BRAGDON, KIP HERZOG, TOM BAKER, NANCY KOENITZER, and HENRY HANSEL received much deserved recognition from the club. The Super Sales Team was captained by JEANNETTE CLARK, selling a record 315 tickets. Wow!
ED FULLERTON reminded members of upcoming Rotary events on April 2 in Ukiah and May 19 at the Double Tree in Rohnert Park, the kick off for the District Conference. May 19 will be Sport Day providing the opportunity for participants play golf, bowl, and did he say something about Texas Hold ‘Em? The conference runs through May 22.
STEVE HENRIS had not reported on the Crab Feed, but sellers of the winning tickets,
. . . HENRY HANSEL, JEANNETTE CLARK, and TOM BRANDAL, paid $20 each for the honor of picking up the award checks for them to deliver personally.
It seems that JOHN DADO and LEE BEAN were carousing at the AT&T golf tournament in Pebble Beach. Their good times cost them $30 each.
PRESIDENT BABE complimented LOU STEINBERG on how handsome his brothers are, something about hair. Cost LOU $20.
The Foreign Service team of TOM BAKER, DAN LIBARLE, and KIP HERZOG described their peace keeping efforts in El Salvador and Guatemala. BAKER picked up the tab of $60.
TAWNY TESCONI made the mistake of insulting PRESIDENT BABE with a short joke ($5) then threatened our esteemed President with tales from Cloverdale ($30),
. . . and your humble editor was threatened! (CATTALINI never said this job was dangerous.) AL CATTALINI gave $50 for a little vacation trip to Egypt, though he tried to de-Nile it.
Visitor PRAETZEL won the raffle and walked away with the wine.
BILL GROVERMAN and RAPLH SARTORI reminded us of the upcoming Farmer’s and Merchant’s Night, next Friday, March 11 at 6:30. Tickets are $25. Contact SARTORI or MARCUS BENEDETTI for tickets. (The club is dark next Thursday.)
Speaker KEITH SOLTS shared the history of the Salvation Army and explained the tremendous things they do locally and globally. Their Capital Campaign will enlarge their Petaluma facilities with a new chapel and community services center and a renovated family service center. So far, they’ve raised $1 million of the $3.2 million target. A great presentation on a great program.
This week's Rota-Teller editor: Doug Garrison.
Next Week:
Set-Up: Dark
Fine Can: Dark
Microphone: Dark
Visitors: Dark
Editor: Ralph Sartori
March 17:
Set-Up: George Bunnell & Joanne Ferris
Fine Can: Bridget Doherty
Microphone: Jan Emery-Bailey
Visitors: Jim Mickelson
Editor: Connie Heizer