Issues are arranged in reverse order. Scroll down to find the issue you want.
February 6 - Ramona Faith, Petaluma Health Care District - The Future of Health Care Delivery in Petaluma
February 13 - Onita Pellegrini - CEO, Petaluma Area Chamber of Commerce
February 20 - Dark for Crab Feed
February 21 - Crab Feed
After greeting everyone and taking on the role of finding everyone a seat, PRESIDENT RICK MOSSI welcomed a packed house to the Rotary Club of Petaluma’s weekly meeting at the Petaluma Golf and Country Club. Maybe the packed house was due to the rumors that MOSSI runs the best meetings but it could have something to do with his offer to buy everyone a drink.
We all joined him in the Pledge of Allegiance.
PAST PRESIDENT JIM McCAFFREY led us in song, My Country Tis of Thee.
PAST PRESIDENT PAUL LOUNIBOS gave a Rotarian “thought for the day”. This was followed by our usual hugs and handshakes.
Our visiting Rotarians were Greg Freitas and Dan Powers from Petaluma Sunrise Club as well as Jody Drummond from Brainerd, Minnesota. Jody and PRESIDENT MOSSI exchanged club flags. Guests were then introduced.
PRESIDENT MOSSI thanked everyone who participated in the Dictionary Program. He read a very nice “thank you” letter from Two Rock Elementary. He also called upon and thanked GEOFF ELLIS who is the main man in charge of coordinating the program.
SHARI RANNEY announced the upcoming club Crab Feed on February 21st. Tickets are selling out so get a hold of SHARI or JAMES BURLESON if you need tickets or a table.
Alongside the Crab Feed is our club’s main fundraising program, the Super Raffle. LEE REPOSA spoke and encouraged everyone to get out there and sell those tickets. Each member needs to sell 10 tickets minimum. The proceeds go to benefit local service projects such as the dictionary program, children’s Christmas gifts, park renovations, Interact Clubs, Boy Scout troops, RYLA camp, international youth exchange, and many more things that our club is involved in.
Reposa announced the leading sales woman and man. They were PAST PRESIDENT NANCY COOLEY with 54 sold and our newer member, JOHN ZIMMERMAN with 40. They both received bottles of wine for their efforts.
We celebrated our January birthdays by singing Happy Birthday and the usual birthday fines.
One of our newest members, JIM SYMONS gave a great craft talk. JIM is both a CPA and an Attorney. He is a 5th generation Petaluman and married to PRESIDENT MOSSI’s sister. They have 1 son and 2 daughters. He joined Rotary to support his brother in-law, the PREZ, and because he has always been impressed by what Rotary does for the community.
Those in attendance were honored in hearing from PAST PRESIDENT DON RAMATICI. DON spoke about his time as club president from 1989-1990. He is an impressive 51 year member of our club. He shared the hilarious story of his first meeting as president in the Vets Hall and how no one showed up for at least 30 minutes. They were all hiding out, drinking, in the bowling alley next door and when they finally came in, someone lit off a smoke bomb.
The raffle winner was our very own international exchange student, Boon. He won $125.
CHRIS RANNEY introduced our speaker, Dr. John Walker, from St Vincent’s High School. He spoke with us about changes and enhancements in the educational system through technology.
Our PRESIDENT RICK MOSSI wished everybody a wonderful day.
This week’s Rota-Teller editor: Brian Breen; photos by Michael Nistler
January 30 - John Walker, SVHS - Changes in Education with Technology
February 6 - Ramona Faith, Petaluma Health Care District - The Future of Health Care Delivery in Petaluma
February 13 - Ellie Cohen, Point Blue Conservation Science - Petaluma Scientific and Environmental Businesses
February 20 - Dark for Crab Feed
February 21 - Crab Feed
President RICK MOSSI, opened the meeting at the appointed half hour and immediately led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. BARNEY FAUSS then led us in rousing renditions of Gypo and God Bless America, . . .
. . .followed by a Thought for the Day from PAUL LOUNIBOS. The customary handshakes, hugs and busses amongst the members ensued. There were no visiting Rotarians to introduce, but there were several guests of Rotarians who joined us, including the guests of JOANNE FERRIS, JOE TAMBE, RICK GORMAN, LEE REPOSA, and the Prez himself.
There Prez then dutifully informed us that there were no libations available for our thirsty brethren who attended the annual luncheon at the Coast Guard base...no word as to whether he thought it was blasphemy of the highest order, or simply an easy to make sure no wayward Rotarians posted up there all weekend! Actually, it’s a new base policy, so remember to BYOB next year, right?!
MARLENE FREETLY then reminded us that dues are due, and noted that a few of our members have overpaid (is this a great Club or what?!). Call Marlene if you want your overpayment portion directed somewhere specific. The Prez then reminded us that there is a voluntary $20 minimum added on to the dues bill to satisfy our Club’s polio plus pledge to RI. Your support in this regard would be much appreciated.
The Prez then announced the January anniversaries (apparently, JANE SALDAÑA-TALLEY was our only member daring enough to brave a winter wedding), followed by a World Community Services Report from JIM BECKER, our International Committee chair.
ONITA PELLEGRINI then announced that it’s once again time for the Argus-Courier community achievement awards and to participate in the special Rotary promotional section of the paper-contact Onita for details.
SHARI RANNEY then gave a Crab Feed report for our upcoming annual Crab Feed event on Feb. 21 (contact Shari if you’d like to reserve a table), . . .
. . .followed by a raffle ticket report . . .
. . . from the three amigos, BRIAN BREEN, RICK GORMAN and LEE REPOSA (contact Brian if you want more tickets or need to know the name of your team captain).
BARNEY FAUSS then shared his Past-President recollections with us.
The Prez, obviously despondent over the 49er’s loss in the NCS title game in Seattle, called on DAN LIBARLE, who was at the game, to explain how he let it happen. Dan had no explanation on the outcome, but he was quite complimentary about the Seattle fans, and his group (including KIP HERZOG and his son) had such a good time despite the loss (apparently, there was no no-libation rule in effect at the stadium), that Dan gladly paid $100 for the wonderful time and for being married for 50 years (Carol Ann must be a Saint!). Welcome back, Dan, and congratulations!
Smiling after a big tip from the Petaluma Rotary Club.
Speaking of being married, BANO CUMMINGS’s son recently got married and Bano was so excited she bought a new car, all of which led to her being fined $100, as well. Congratulations, Bano!
CLARK ROSEN was then called on the hardwood to atone for the free advertisement he so blatantly received from one of the speakers he lined up (Dr. Frank Chong, SRJC President) . . . he cheerfully paid $40 for the impromptu promo. Thanks, Clark.
After the raffle (ticket #8824545) proved to be a winner for JIM BECKER, . . .
. . . Program Chair CHRIS RANNEY introduced our speaker, . . .
. . . Mike Ferris (the man who completes Joanne Ferris), Director of Laboratory Services for Sonoma County, who gave a very informative and thought provoking presentation on bio-terrorism, followed by a lively question and answer session. He received a Rotary memento for a program well received, and an autographed book will be donated in his name to a local high school library. Whereupon, after the customary closing thought from the Prez, the meeting was summarily adjourned.
This week’s Rota-Teller editor: Mike Baddeley
JJanuary 23 - Mike Ferris, Bioterrorism
January 30 - John Walker, SVHS - Changes in Education with Technology
February 6 - Ramona Faith, Petaluma Health Care District - The Future of Health Care Delivery in Petaluma
February 13 - Ellie Cohen, Point Blue Conservation Science - Petaluma Scientific and Environmental Businesses
A decades-old tradition continued on January 16 as Rotarians and their guests trekked westward to Two Rock Valley for the annual luncheon at the Coast Guard Training Center.
A large contingent of Coast Guard men and women were on hand at the Consolidated Club to greet the Rotarians and visit during the pre-lunch “social hour.”
This photo shows Kathy Brandal, Sharon Dado, and Oralee Bean visiting with the base Executive Officer, Commander Anita Scott while they awaited cocktail service. We think they are still waiting.
Rotarians enjoyed the opportunity to visit. BARNEY FAUSS regaled the Coasties with stories of his Navy exploits and paused to pose for a photo with base Commanding Officer, Captain Charles Fosse.
Then it was time for lunch in Haley Hall. Rotarians enjoyed the meal of Wonton Soup (25 calories), Korean Style Short Ribs (318), Orange Chicken (634), Sticky Rice (160), Vegetable Yakisoba (230), Steamed Edamame (120), Stirfry Vegetables (115), Vegetable Egg Roll & Dipping Sauces (180), plus a full salad bar and dessert assortment.
After lunch, PRESIDENT RICK called the meeting to order and led the Pledge to the Flag, a really big flag. Then it was time for BARNEY FAUSS to lead us in song. After warming up on I’m a Rambler, . . . , Barney observed that the really big flag demanded a special song and led a stirring National Anthem. It had us all on our feet.
PRESIDENT RICK, inspired by the military setting, gave his Thought for the Day, a quote from astronaut John Glenn: “As I hurtled through space, one thought kept crossing my mind: Every part of this capsule was supplied by the lowest bidder.”
Many Rotarians brought guests to the luncheon and all were introduced. We’ll omit their names so as to not cause problems for the Rotarians who didn’t. We actually had one visiting Rotarian and he was wearing Coast Guard blue: Senior Chief Petty Officer Mark Henry, a member of the Rancho Cotati Club.
After announcing January anniversaries, PPRESIDENT RICK discussed Supper Raffle tickets (sell them!), Crab Feed tickets (buy them!) and dictionaries (distribute them!). There were no fines planned and no volunteers to be fined.
AL CATTALINI introduced the aforementioned Captain Chuck Fosse who discussed the history and mission of the Training Center and answered questions from the audience.
PRESIDENT RICK’s closing thought was a show of hands for 49ers or Seahawks. The 49ers won overwhelmingly — at least on Thursday.
This week’s Rota-Teller editor: Al Cattalini
January 16 - Club meets at USCG Training Center (Two Rock)
January 23 - Mike Ferris, Bioterrorism
January 30 - John Walker, SVHS - Changes in Education with Technology
February 6 - Ramona Faith, Petaluma Health Care District - The Future of Health Care Delivery in Petaluma
February 13 - Ellie Cohen, Point Blue Conservation Science - Petaluma Scientific and Environmental Businesses
It was a cool and overcast January day, when PRESIDENT RICK MOSSI called to order the Rotary Club of Petaluma on this second Thursday of 2014 . . . round 22 according to the Prez (but who’s counting!). PRESIDENT RICK led us in the Pledge of Allegiance and then called for a moment of silence in honor of our beloved friend, TED ADKINS, who passed away on January 3rd.
PRESIDENT RICK invited BARNEY FAUSS to lead us in song and BARNEY started us off with I’m a Rambler in remembrance of TED (“if ever there was one . . . ”) and finished off with God Bless America.
Past President DAN LIBARLE, shared a “Thought for the Day” about married men forgetting their mistakes . . . seems there’s no reason for two people to remember the same screw up! Thanks for a good laugh, DAN!
After club greetings, PRESIDENT RICK asked ONITA PELLEGRINI to announce Visiting Rotarians, and we had only one, Jeff Kumos. Rotarians with Guests included LEE REPOSA with his son, Grant (sporting a Giants tee shirt) and CHRIS RANNEY introducing Steve and Judy Collins.
PRESIDENT RICK then gave Sunshine reports on JOE TAMBE (who’d been under the weather but was with us that day!) and JAMES GOTELLI (who’s been struggling with a bad back). Take good care, guys. We need both of you healthy and fit!
PRESIDENT RICK shared with us that TED ADKINS services would be held Saturday, January 11 at 1:00 pm at Parent Sorensen.
PRESIDENT RICK called out the names and thanked the Salvation Bell Ringers who stepped up to assist PAUL LOUNIBOS on Friday, December 20th, and then gave a special shout out to PAUL who’s always willing to help and “never says no.”
PRESIDENT RICK announced nominations for District Governor (2016-17) . . . information sent by email (1/6/14) . . . see RICK if you have a desire for ‘higher office.’ PRESIDENT RICK announced the SCARC dinner meeting on January 30th in Rohnert Park at the Foxtail Golf Course . . . see MARLENE FREETLY if you plan to attend.
GEOFF ELLIS sent around a form and encouraged Rotarians to sign up for the Dictionary distribution beginning the week of January 13 and concluding the week of January 20. PRESIDENT RICK expressed his heartfelt thanks for all of the members who donated to Polio Plus through the semi-annual dues collection.
PRESIDENT RICK then donned a very festive crabby/raffley hat (loved it!) to call on Rotarians leading the Crab Feed/Super Raffle effort.
LEE REPOSA announced the Super Raffle Ticket sales goal for this year is 1400+ . . .
. . . and JAMES BURLESON announced he’s working with SHARI and CHRIS RANNEY to coordinate the Crab Feed ticket sales. JAMES encouraged folks to sell individual tickets to increase community-wide attendance for the “best crab feed around.”
Lastly, JIM BECKER announced the World Community Service and Travel Committee would be meeting on January 21st at 5:15 pm at the Petaluma Yacht Club for no host cocktails (he’s providing the snacks). Remember this is the only committee that offers travel opportunities around the world. Join them and see where the next big adventure might take you!
During the fine portion of the meeting, PRESIDENT RICK picked up some bucks from a few soon-to-be cash free members. JIM SYMONS got nabbed for his recent trip to San Diego to join in celebrating PRESIDENT RICK’s son Eric’s graduation from Marine boot camp. JIM gave up $100 ($26 of which was for PRESIDENT RICK) and then PRESIDENT RICK matched that amount for being a proud papa who’s learning what it means to commit to a career in the military (and to let his sleeping son lie!).
AL CATTALINI threw in $50 (one dollar for each year!) to celebrate his ‘significant’ August wedding anniversary with Joan and family.
JOANNE FERRIS got off easy by giving the club $40 for her Las Vegas-style holiday trip to Spokane with good friends to see the USF v. Gonzaga game (followed by stops in at least 6 bars and one comedy club . . . ). Then she agreed to pay the same amount to learn her son’s dating secrets from CHRIS RANNEY, who had insider information. We will never know the details, however, because that deal was ‘off the record’ for this reporter!
The day’s raffle graced TAWNY TESCONI with a nice bottle of wine (instead of the $75 in the pot).
CHRIS RANNEY introduced guest speaker, . . .
. . . David Goodman, Executive Director of the Redwood Empire Food Bank who gave an outstanding presentation on the operations and impact of the Food Bank in Petaluma and throughout the area. David is a former Rotarian who noted that if he gave a brief introduction, he was certain Rotarians with questions would help him finish up his presentation . . . and by gosh, that was the way it happened! Great presentation, David!
PRESIDENT RICK’s closing thought for the day (courtesy of Mario Andretti) . . . “If everything is under control, you’re going too slow.”
Next week join PRESIDENT RICK at the US Coast Guard facility in Two Rock for our annual lunch and presentation. Contact AL CATTALINI or see the website to register.
Go Niners!!!
This week’s Rota-Teller editor: Jane Saldaña-Talley