Last Meeting: February 24, 2009

Morris Eaddy greeted Rotarians on the last day the Mardi Gras celebration! Miller Caldwell sold winning tickets at the door. 

President Keith called the meeting to order.  Nancy Maloy gave the prayer and led the Pledge of Allegiance.  Andrea Farage announced the upcoming Rotary leadership event for 10th grade school kids – RILA. It will be held 2-5 April and our club still has openings. And, it is not too late for nominations for the “Ethics in Business” – see Ed Ranelli for details.  Frances Yeo and husband continue to recover from medical issues and if a member could provide support please see Julie Tippins Parker.

Our newest dues paying member – Malcolm Thomas – the recently elected Superintendent of Escambia County Schools, was introduced by Martin Harwood – welcome Malcolm!

Innis Richards wond the raffle drawing.

Sunshine expert, Sally Fox, skillfully delivered a flawless pitch recognizing our military guest, Rotary birthdays, visiting and guests of Rotarians.

Program: John Shaffer introduced our guests Ed Blackmon and John Sasser who are responsible for the improvements along interstate 110 to I-10. They mentioned that very soon all those orange barrels will disappear. Over the course of the past 15 years, in excess of $500 million has been spent of improvements starting with the new I-10 bridge over Escambia Bay, the I-10/I110 interchange, the widening of I-110, and the new interchange at Airport Blvd. For each dollar allocated to these improvements it brings over $5.80 in economic impact directly into the area. The new airport interchange will have service roads in lieu of off/on ramps.  This new system will allow direct access to I-110 and the airport.  A few questions and answered concluded the program.

President Keith thanked all who made the meeting a success and adjourned the meeting.

Rotary Wheels

When Jean Norman and sponsors held a United Way breakfast rally last week, John Clark’s Meals on Wheels was headlined.
When Judy Bense addressed the club about future UWF potentials, we could almost envision good member Debbie Ford with a construction hat and football helmet as her new equipment, helping things grow.
Terry Scruggs pulled off a musical miracle recently when, with Rooters rehearsal an hour away, he rushed across town to make guitar repairs.
Credit Gerry Hoewing with the ability to give aviation museum visitors Royal Treatment. His staff hosted the huge King and Queen of Spain luncheon.
A salute to Donnie McMahon and Ron Jackson for their Pace Awards recognition. 

Birthdays

March 7:  Fred Sitten, Albertville, AL, 10 years
March 8:  Susan Graf, St. Louis, MO, 4 years

Last Meeting: February 17, 2009

Members and their guests were greeted by Handsel Butts while Bo Carter and Brooks Champlin handled raffle ticket sales.

President Keith called the meeting to order and led the club in the 4 Way Test.

Betty Gail Peters was called to the podium to lead the club in prayer and pledge.

President Keith reminded members to complete the club survey which would be used in continuing efforts to refine the operations of the club.  Debbie Ford was then called to the podium to introduce our newest member, Dr. Judy Bense. Dr. Bense currently serves as President of the University of West Florida where she has served as head of the Archeology Department for over 28 years and is credited with elevating her field of study via aggressive promotion of the incredible historic assets in our community.  Dr. Bense is no stranger to the Club having presented to Downtown Rotary on numerous occasions over the years.  President Keith announced the upcoming District Conference to be held at the Bay Point Resort in Panama City April 24-26. He encouraged members to attend and support District Governor Ron Richards.

Next up were our beloved Rotary Rooters who prepared a unique combination of a President’s Day and Valentine’s medley.  The group worked through 2 songs before the finale of “Let me call you sweetheart” from their greatest hits album which served to work the crowd into a frenzy.  Barrister Bob Hart was then called upon for Sunshine and he acknowledged club members who were assisting with arrangements for the visit by the Spanish Royals later in the week.  Bob called upon 1 military guest and recognized guests of the club and visiting Rotarians.  Next was a joke about 3 fishermen and an angel that included a great punch line – cheers to Bob for soliciting laughs and offending no one (take note Alan Bookman).  Bob then led the club – with organ accompaniment by John Appleyard – to Happy Birthday You All to the birthday boys and gals.

Margaret Stopp was called to the podium to introduce our program which was presented by our very newest member – Dr. Judy Bense.  Dr. Bense presented an overview of the vision for UWF and the historic significance of the Royal Visit.  Dr. Bense has succeeded in her efforts to raise awareness in the study of Archaeology by making it relevant and being passionate in her efforts to share her knowledge with the public.  She explained how archeology adds another dimension to our history and has succeeded in building it into a nationally recognized program at UWF.  She recounted her excitement at being selected to serve in the capacity of UWF President upon the departure of Dr. John Cavanaugh.  Judy mentioned the challenge of increasing enrollment at UWF as it is the smallest unit of the Florida university system.  She also discussed her efforts to increase campus life so as to make the university more appealing to potential students.  In an effort to meet the challenges presented by current economic conditions Bense is leading an effort to apply a business model to academic programming via analysis of supply and demand for talent and workforce study and job market assessment. This will lead to rational decision making for the long term good of the university.  Dr. Bense then told us that the Royals are coming to Pensacola due to the diligence in sharing our Spanish archeological findings with them and asking their permission to pursue the exploration of Spanish shipwrecks as a courtesy and that is greatly appreciated.  The visit is the payoff for our local archeology efforts and you can bet that the folks in St. Augustine are jealous!

There being no further business the meeting was adjourned.

Rotary Wheels

Hats off to Britt Landrum for hosting a great meeting where an economist from the Fed Reserve gave insight into today’s economy. It would have been even better had the prospects presented been sunnier.
Earle Bowden appeared in the press recently planning the visit of the Spanish king. Maybe he’ll report on the event to the club.
Dale Knee and Nigel Allen were part of a large gathering recently where folks gained info on what’s being done to aid families where Alzheimer’s disease is present.
Wish Wheels had some new info on good member Bill Noonan, who hasn’t been with us for some time.

Birthdays

February 28:  Scott Sallis, Springdale, AZ, Less than 1 year
March 1:  Bill Dollarhide, Greenwood, MS, 1 year
March 1:  Bob Fargo, Springfield, IL, 31 years
March 3:  Lou Ray, St. Louis, MO, 31 years

Extra

John Shaffer is asking for help for funding to raise $2,000 for a Big Brothers and Big Sisters Bowling Event in April. Those who can are asked to donate $10, $20 or whatever to helping this organization. These young people are a critical times in their lives and the organization makes a big difference to them. Call John at 433.4343 or 554.4338 for further information.

The EscaRosa Independence Weekend (EIW) Committee is rallying the public to support severely injured veterans from the Gulf War on Terror at the EscaRosa Independence Weekend from May 14-17 in the Pensacola Bay Area (Escambia and Santa Rosa counties). A kickoff fundraising social and silent auction from 6:30–9 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 26, 2009 at Will Call Sports Grille will raise money to bring disabled veterans to Pensacola for a weekend in their honor and to support the unmet needs of these brave heroes. Guests planning to attend the kickoff fundraising social and silent auction are asked to RSVP to .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) and to print the invitation to present at the door at Will Call along with a minimum $100 tax-deductible donation to the Independence Fund. The invitation is available under “Join Our Heroes” at http://www.EscaRosaIndependenceWeekend.com.

Last Meeting: February 10, 2009

Warm greetings for everyone on this sunny day came from Ted Brown. President Bullock called the meeting to order and led us in the four-way test. Prayer and pledge was led by Jack Nobles.

President Bullock began the meeting by asking if anyone is missing a Rotary pin as one has been found. Rotary is still looking for a home (in the Washington HS area) for the exchange student. Also, there is still time to sign up for the trip to Trinidad the first week of March. Leigh Broxton and Leslie Halsall joined forces to sell raffle tickets, and Blair Crooke was the lucky winner of $65.

Mr. Sunshine, Hugh Hamilton, introduced numerous guests and visitors, keeping the level of cheer high by way of sharing a few humorous pet-related jokes.  A special welcome was given to Leon Hirsh, assistant to the Rotary district governor. Having no Rotary members attending the meeting with birthdays this week, Hugh wished us all a good day.

Betty Roberts introduced our speaker, Brad Roberts who gave a presentation on Ending US Dependence on Oil and Gas. He spoke of the global power use and the increasing competition for energy. The US population (3% of the world) uses 25% of world energy. Everyone agrees that better use of energy is a must through:

      Support for more renewable resources (wind, solar)

      Reduce our consumption

      End the addiction to gasoline

Mr. Roberts spoke of the importance of energy storage. Storage of electric grid power is impossible; it needs to be stored in a different way. Options include pumped hydro power, compressed air, and a battery system (of huge batteries). We can reduce our usage of power through more efficient appliances, time of day pricing (changing our habits), and a Smart Grid at home (complex and interactive). The biggest change for the future will be electric cars, locomotives, and buses.

President Bullock thanked all those that helped at the meeting, and with that the meeting was adjourned.

Rotary Wheels

The club’s resident artist Morris Eaddy is now studying a new form of production dealing with modern forms.
Bob Rogers and the Waterfront Rescue Mission saw much higher numbers of the homeless during the prolonged cold snap.
Maybe the club should invest in some sort of Diplomatic Formal Garb for Coy Irwin, who’s to greet the Spanish king.
See where Britt Landrum’s firm has a different view of recession. There are good temporary people on their team…but users are slowing down.
The new city library branch (north side) is nearing completion. Credit Bill Maloy for much of the hard promotional effort on this one.

Birthdays

David Harrison, February 17, Mobile, AL, 2 years
Roger Vinson, February 19, Cadiz, KY, 26 years
Cal Moore, February 19, Montgomery, AL, 25 years
Stephen Benz, February 19, Pensacola, FL, 10 years
Don Haferkamp, February 20, LaPorte, IN, 8 years
Jimmy Jones, February 21, Paragould, AR, 30 years
Frank Beall, February 23, Dothan, AL, 43 years

Extra

MEMBERSHIP PROPOSALS:

Gary Sammons has been with Gulf Power for 31 years and is the new Pensacola District Manager responsible for the operation of the district which includes Escambia and Santa Rosa County.  He has been a Rotarian for 8 years.  He is a member of Cokesbury Methodist Church and is married to Shirley.  They have 2 children and 3 grandchildren.

Malcolm Thomas is the Superintendent of Schools for Escambia County and has had 28 years of experience in the school district.  He is a life long resident of Escambia county and a US Army Veteran.  He is married to Sandra and they have two daughters.

Judy Bense is the interim President of the University of West Florida.  She has served at UWF for 28 years, most recently as chair and professor of the Department of Anthropology and Archaeology and executive director of the Division of Anthropology and Archaeology at UWF.  She is currently the chair of the Florida Historical Commission.

Last Meeting: February 3, 2009

Fred Braden greeted all Rotarians, visitors and guests with a warm greeting and firm handshake.  Leslie Halsall and Roger Brown sold raffle tickets.
President Keith Bullock called the meeting to order and led the group in the Four Way Test, followed by Charlie Sherrill who led us in the prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance.
President Keith then called upon Charlie Blackwell to introduce our guests and visiting rotarians along with our sunshine remarks.  He also recognized our members celebrating birthdays this week and the membership sang Happy Birthday to those present.  The birthday celebration and singing was handled joyfully with our piano accompaniment again provided by John Appleyard.

The raffle drawing of $67 was awarded to Vince Currie.  Charlie then introduced our military guests Ens. Kevin Lutz and Ens. James Brodtmann.  In addition, Adm. Gerry Hoewing (USN Ret) introduced his guest, Cmdr. Kristina Nielsen who is in charge of Public Works at NAS Pensacola.  Charlie invited our military guests to the stage where he thanked them for their service to our country and presented each with a piece of imported china to commemorate their visit to our club.
President Keith then gave the floor to Sherry Hartnett who introduced our speaker, Ashley Wiloby, Executive Director of the Andrews - Poulos Research and Education Institute.  Ms. Wiloby described how the Research and Education Institute operates alongside the Andrews Institute to attract the best medical and scientific minds and to keep the institute’s doctors at the cutting edge of medical technology.
Ms. Wiloby described the grants that the institute has received for both research and education and how they have partnered with local and national firms.  These include a $500,000 grant from Space Florida and a $158,000 “WIRE” grant (Workforce Initiative).  The Institute also received collaborative grants with the University of West Florida and the Institute for Human and Machine Cognition.  The Institute is working on research to prevent injury in sports, law enforcement and military settings.  The Institute aims to collect and analyze data on repetitive injuries and tailor best practices to prevent future injuries.  Other areas of involvement include clinical trials of medicines with the FDA and medical device development.  The Andrews - Poulos Research and Education Institute is intended to compliment the work of the Andrews Institute by keeping its physicians and staff on the cutting edge of medical technology and research.
After thanking our speaker, President Keith adjourned our meeting by reminding us to “make dreams real”.

Rotary Wheels

Give Art Hufford a big hand for the wonderful job he’s doing, assisting his wife following her knee replacement. And…guess who’s having knee work this week? It’s Roger MacDonald.
John Tice gets a big pat on the back for his excellent training work aiding the Cordova Club as it sets out on new fund raising ventures.
Coy Irvin has taken bowling lessons, anticipating his role with Spain’s monarchs upcoming visit soon.
Andrea Farage tells Wheels that ground prep is underway for the new Ronald McDonald House, on Brent Lane.
“They brought Jesus back to Father Gray” recently…when a stolen parish statue was returned after a long absence.
Jean Norman reports that charitable giving is indeed down as folks install new zippers on their wallets.
David Bear and family held one of the area’s biggest Superbowl bashes. That affair’s become a tradition.

Birthdays

February 11:  Grover Robinson, Gainesville, FL, 13 years

February 12:  Nancy Fetterman, Poteet, TX, 1 year

February 16:  Bob Palmer, Pensacola, FL, 19 years

Extra

MEMBERSHIP PROPOSALS:

Gary Sammons has been with Gulf Power for 31 years and is the new Pensacola District Manager responsible for the operation of the district which includes Escambia and Santa Rosa County.  He has been a Rotarian for 8 years.  He is a member of Cokesbury Methodist Church and is married to Shirley.  They have 2 children and 3 grandchildren.

Malcolm Thomas is the Superintendent of Schools for Escambia County and has had 28 years of experience in the school district.  He is a life long resident of Escambia county and a US Army Veteran.  He is married to Sandra and they have two daughters.

Judy Bense is the interim President of the University of West Florida.  She has served at UWF for 28 years, most recently as chair and professor of the Department of Anthropology and Archaeology and executive director of the Division of Anthropology and Archaeology at UWF.  She is currently the chair of the Florida Historical Commission.

Last Meeting: January 27, 2009

Alan Bookman greeted Rotarians and guest as they met in the newly renovated New World Landing. Alexis Bolin managed the raffle tickets.

President Keith called the meeting to order and welcomed J.J. Coonan back to the meetings! Leonard Schwartz gave the prayer and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Richard Sherrill gave us his Sunshine performance. Richard introduced guests and visiting Rotarians along with Sunshine remarks. He also recognized those having birthdays and the membership sang Happy Birthday to those present.

President Keith introduced Gerald Hooten visiting Rotarian from North Carolina. Gerald introduced his wife Esther and honored his son John with the Paul Harris Fellow award. President Keith also recognized Margaret Stopp, Bob Hart, and Mark Smith for their support of the literacy Ecare program.

President Keith also asked for someone to act as a volunteer host family living in the Washington High School area for our visiting student. Please contact Keith in this regard if you can help.

John Shaffer introduced guest speaker Clif Payne. Clif talked about the International Wheelchair Project that we have been part of since 1996. He said we would be proud of the wheelchair project that helps provide wheelchairs to disabled families and children in Jamaica, Peru and Costa Rica. The goal of the project is to provide wheelchairs and improve the quality of life for profoundly disabled children and young adults. Year to date there have been 301 wheelchairs provided. Clif showed some pictures of some receiving wheel chairs and how their life has been improved and enhanced because of the generous donations of Rotarians.

President Keith thanked all for helping make today’s meeting and program a success.

The meeting was adjourned.

Rotary Wheels

Hill Turner’s son is soon to commit matrimony!
A recently issued Pensacola History in Photos of the 1950s and ’60s has some interesting memories. The pics show the Sherrill family’s Number One Pure Oil Products Station at Garden and Baylen streets, and the Pontiac showroom of Mort O’Sullivan’s clan. Of all visible business signs seen in the book, only the Elebash store of that era remains today.
Following what January 20th speaker Ed Meadows said, good member Jim Martin will be busy, preparing for all manner of new offerings for future PJC students of all ages and interests.
Coy Irvin and his committees are soon to host Spanish royalty as part of the Pensacola 450th anniversary celebration year-long event.

Birthdays

Brian Masterson, February 3, Pensacola, FL, 6 years

Leonard Swartz, February 3, Brooklyn, NY, 23 years

Norris McMahon, February 5, Pensacola, FL, 4 years

Gary Lee, February 5, Greensboro, AL, 3 years

Gerry Hoewing, February 6, Keokuk, Iowa, 3 years

Ed Ranelli, February 8, Birmingham, AL, 8 years

Extra

MEMBERSHIP PROPOSALS:

Gary Sammons has been with Gulf Power for 31 years and is the new Pensacola District Manager responsible for the operation of the district which includes Escambia and Santa Rosa County.  He has been a Rotarian for 8 years.  He is a member of Cokesbury Methodist Church and is married to Shirley.  They have 2 children and 3 grandchildren.
Malcolm Thomas is the Superintendent of Schools for Escambia County and has had 28 years of experience in the school district.  He is a life long resident of Escambia county and a US Army Veteran.  He is married to Sandra and they have two daughters.
Judy Bense is the interim President of the University of West Florida.  She has served at UWF for 28 years, most recently as chair and professor of the Department of Anthropology and Archaeology and executive director of the Division of Anthropology and Archaeology at UWF.  She is currently the chair of the Florida Historical Commission.

Last Meeting: January 20, 2009

Frank Beall greeted attendees on this cool blue sky day at the newly remodeled New World Landing.  Raffle tickets were sold by Bobby Behr.  President Keith introduced Martin Harwood to lead in the prayer and pledge.  Keith reminded members to contact him, Kathy Horton-Brown or Cliff Payne if interested in the newest wheelchair project.
A romantic vocal presentation was given by the Rotary Rooters and the $61 raffle drawing was won by Blaze Adams.  Sunshine was brought to us by Charles Beall who introduced our USN military guest, visiting Rotarian and other guest of members.
Margaret Stopp introduced our speaker, Club member and PJC President, Ed Meadows.
This year is the 60th anniversary for Pensacola Junior College.  Of all their students, 70% receive some form of financial assistance.  Ed thanked the Club for continuing support through our contributions to the endowment fund and our scholarship program. There are 28 community colleges in Florida and of the 850,000 college students in the State, 68% attend a community college.  College enrollment in the State is up by 90,000 students.  PJC has no plans to cap their enrollment but must find new ways of funding.
The LPN-nursing program is ranked first in the country is areas of excellence and is highly recognized.  WSRE-TV is nominated this year for two Emmy Awards.  The dual enrollment program for high school students is second highest in the State.  The men’s and women’s basketball teams are highly ranked while playing in one of the toughest leagues of junior colleges.
PJC is growing with an $800,000 expansion of the baseball facility and an additional $800,000 to follow later.  In Milton, The Hobbs Center for Education, including adult education, will have a $1,400,000 expansion and, in Pensacola, the main campus
Edward M. Chadbourne library will have a $1,400,000 expansion.  The Milton vocational and technical training center will have an $11,000,000 expansion and several of the original Pensacola main campus buildings will be replaced, including the performing arts theater.
With a budget reduction of 8% some PJC positions will be eliminated and staff cut backs made.  But plans are to expand the program to have baccalaureate degrees, including nursing, available in two years.  These will not compete, but partner with UWF programs to help with growing demand.  In all, the 2009 PJC budget will be $53,000,000.
Meeting adjourned.

Rotary Wheels

Didjaknow that Eric Nickelsen is a board member of the IHMC?
Jeff Lewis is no longer part of the Public Defender staff and has opened a specialized legal practice.
Earl Hutto’s foundation now is providing a UWF scholarship in nursing.
Gerry Goewing and the Naval Aviation Museum have a new IMAX film showing, about riding the rapids in the Colorado River. The staff there is looking at other IMAX potentials, too. Even with tourist traffic down overall, the Museum continues to enjoy a visitor attendance spike.
Reed Bell and his sons were honored recently for their collective roles in the growth of Sacred Heart Hospital and the Children’s Hospital.
A good many club members attended the installation ceremony for the new city council persons. During the ceremony new Mayor Mike Wiggins commented that council has removed the word “interim” from Al Coby’s city manager arrangement. However, Al still says he’s thinking retirement.

Birthdays

Fred Braden, January 27, Huntington, WV, 11 years
Ron Martin, January 27, Pensacola, FL, 9 years
Roger MacDonald, January 29, Milwaukee, WI, 36 years

Last Meeting: January 13, 2009

Nora Bailey and Scott Barrow greeted all Rotarians as they met at the Pensacola Civic Center due to the renovation of New World Landing.
President Keith Bullock called the meeting to order. He recognized Dr. Bill Maloy for attending the meeting. Kathy Horton-Brown reported on our club being a recipient along with two California clubs of a grant from Rotary International regarding a mini-van to help transport kids and families to and from the hospital from the Ronald McDonald House at the port of Spain-Trinidad. She also said that there is an opportunity for 50 Rotarians to visit the project and that one can apply for the $800 traveling fee not including airfare. Great job Kathy!
The Membership and Maygarden New Members Class were asked to meet following today’s meeting.
R.P. “Rodger” Doyle gave the prayer and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Vince Currie introduced new member Charles Neal Goldsborough to club members. He is the new Rector at Christ Episcopal Church and is a retired military captain.
Al Stubblefield gave us sunshine. Along with Al’s humorous remarks he introduced military, guests, and visiting Rotarians.
He also announced January birthdays. John Appleyard added a harmonica to the birthday song.
Paul Young introduced our guest speaker, Dr.W. Henry Langhorne,III. Dr Langhorne is a cardiologist. His business is Cardiology Associates. His talk included very valuable information about new perspectives in heart disease. He gave us two case studies of different patients and how they coped with heart disease and how they were treated. He said that heart disease is the number 1 killer and it affects all of us. He suggested we all be tuned into a checklist for good health.  For example, “determine if it is safe to exercise”, “catch the disease early”, “watch your blood pressure and cholesterol” and “keep abreast of how functional you are”. He said we should monitor how far we can walk and for how long. He also talked about heredity and inflammation of the blood vessels. His talk ended with many Rotarians asking questions and giving applause.
President Keith thanked all involved and the meeting was adjourned.

Rotary Wheels

Credit Margaret Stopp with still another move in the club’s interests in literacy. The gathering of books for youngsters is a winner.

Morris Marx and Jerry Maygarden now are part of UWF’s new committee examining the future of sports there. Is NCAA Division I really in the offing?

Jack Gray says he’s serious about beginning a new career in May. He’s studying possibilities.

Dale Knee and Nigel Allen are being seen and heard on TV and in other media expressing concern over the effect of proposed state budgets on care for the terminally ill.

April first will be the date of the third local HONOR FLIGHT for WWII vets. This flight will originate in Okaloosa County, but some attendees will be from our immediate area and perhaps from this club.

On January 8th the County Commission by resolution made John Appleyard’s History of County Government an official part of the area’s 450th anniversary celebration.

Birthdays

Chuck Michaels, January 21, Columbia, PA, 8 years
Ron Jackson, January 23, Marianna, FL, 9 years
George Biggs, January 23, Pensacola, FL, 10 years
Al Coby, January 23, Muskogee, OK, 20 years
Tom Westbrook, January 24, New York, NY, 11 years
Dave Aronson, January 26, Forest Hills, NY, 35 years

Last Meeting: January 6, 2009

Rotarians were greeted by Lavonne Agerton. Raffle tickets were sold by Brian Bell and Leslie Halsall.
President Keith welcomed all to the Pensacola Civic Center and wished us all a Happy New Year.
The meeting began with Earl Hutto leading us in prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance.  Nigel Allen was Sunshine and gave us words of good cheer.  Nigel welcomed guests, military heroes and visiting Rotarians. Those having birthdays were recognized and members sang Happy Birthday.
Our guest speaker was David Conkle who is affiliated with St. Joseph’s Church in Pensacola. David told us of how those who are needy receive medical care in the community.
All were thanked for their help with holiday bell ringing.
Again, all are reminded that the next meeting on Tuesday, January 13 will be held at the Civic Center. The meeting was adjourned by President Keith.  MAKE DREAMS REAL.

Rotary Wheels

With New World Landing undergoing remodeling, Jack Williams and Company are playing host to the 5 Flags Rotary meetings.

It was over forty years ago that Mac Miller, then WCOA radio’s owner, originated the Pensacola Speaks call-in show. Now that is history. Luke McCoy was turned out to pasture, and the station has more recorded national “stuff.”

Henry Cary’s back home after spending Christmas as a hospital patient. He’s doing fine.

Roger Vinson’s back after shepherding several grandchildren through Disney World over the holidays.

Bo Carter now has new business cards and his photo’s appearing regularly in the paper now that the bank merger’s complete.

Credit Jean Norman for handing out much good advice to those with trimmed incomes, including many not-for-profit organizations. Contributions WERE down.

Birthdays

Leigh Broxton, January 13, Pensacola, FL, 4 years
Joe Maloney, January 14, Indianapolis, IN, 1 year
Sally Fox, January 17, Arlington, VA, 14 years
Mort O’Sullivan, January 19, Pensacola, FL, 24 years

Last Meeting: December 23, 2008

Rotarians were greeted by Brian McCall. Raffle tickets were sold by Oliver Soule.
President Keith welcomed all for attending the family and friends December Holiday luncheon. He reminded all that there would be no meeting on December 30, 2008. Also, reminded everyone that we will be meeting at the Civic Center on January 6, 2009 and January 13. He recognized Frances Yeo for making it to the meeting today especially since she is suffering from a broken ankle.
The meeting was begun with “R. P.” Rodger Doyle who gave the prayer and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Alan Bookman was Sunshine. He welcomed guests, students, military heroes and visitors plus giving us some words of sunshine. Alan also, welcomed Bill Wilshire and all applauded his return.
Those having birthdays were recognized and sung the Birthday song. The Rotor Rooters performed Christmas carols. Following the Rotor Rooters, the Rotorettes made a “first and only” performance singing some Christmas songs and ending with the Santa Baby song. Applause was heard for both groups.
President Keith gave an update on the Bells for the Salvation Army telling that they goal of $250,000 was up to $233,000 as of last night.
The ticket raffle was won by Andrea Farage who took home $125.
President Keith adjourned the meeting by wishing all the best of season greetings and thanked all for their efforts in making it a good meeting for all.

Rotary Wheels

As UWF expands its public messages, two graduates highlighted were our own Mort O’Sullivan and Ron Jackson. Meanwhile, Collier Merrill continues in his role in selecting a permanent president for the university.
The two-bank regional merger’s now complete and Bo Carter thus can print some new business cards with an expanded title.
When Randy Jackson’s Presbyterian choir presented its Christmas concert Nigel Allen was a prominent member. Nigel’s had an offer from the Rooters but is still in arbitration.
Both Bob Rogers and Walter Strong say that the need to help the homeless at Christmas season is up sharply. Walter’s also saying that there are fears of an even sharper rise by mid-year.
Thanks to Tommy Tait for a strong quote detailing how local banks have avoided the mortgage pitfalls that others have suffered. That’s a good holiday message.
Hear tell that Carol Law is a director of the successful IMPACT program, and that the Association of Realtors honored Auby Smith for his special contributions during an unusual year for that profession.
Andrea Farage is beaming! The $5 million campaign for a new Ronald McDonald House has reached the halfway mark.
Hats off to Earl Hutto on his fine work in recruiting Salvation Army bell ringers. Earl touched not only our own club but members of several other organizations as well. One pair, Susan O’Conner and Diane Appleyard, had the pleasure of watching a donor put a $100 bill in the bucket.
Sally Fox and the Rooterettes surely made a hit at the December 23rd party! Just think how well they would do with the aid of Terry Scruggs’ guitar.
As he attended a program dealing with Christmases past, Carl Mertins provided the personal memory of going north of the city to cut the family tree.

Birthdays

John Shaffer, January 8, Harrisonburg, VA, 5 years
Richard H. Sherrill, January 10, Pensacola, FL, 47 years
Ed Meadows, January 10, New Albany, MS, 17 years
Hugh Hamilton, January 11, Spartanburg, SC, 9 years
Julie Tippins Parker, January 11, New Orleans, LA, 10 years

Last Meeting: December 16, 2008

Paul Tobin eagerly greeted Rotarians at the door as we enter the apex of the Holiday Season. After a thoughtful leading of us in prayer and pledge, Henry Roberts turned it over to our diligent leader.  President Keith kicked off the meeting with a few items including that the January 6th and 13th 2009 meetings will be held in the Civic Center due to the renovations in the New World Landing.
President Keith recognized Paul Harris contributors, Ray Jones, Margret Stopp, and Robert Mills.  Each spoke of the importance of the recognition. Earl Hutto gave dates and times for volunteers needed to help with bell ringing for the remainder of the holiday season. Earl thanked all who had helped with the bell ringing. Blaise Adams took home the $71 in raffle winnings. Sunshine veteran Frank Beall introduced military guests, guests and visiting Rotarians. Those having birthdays were celebrated by the membership singing Happy Birthday. Frank concluded by offering words of philosophic humor.
Collier Merrill introduced our guest speaker – Florida State Senator, Republican Don Gaetz. In 2006, Sen. Gaetz was the first non-incumbent in 50 years to run unopposed and has quickly established himself as a vocal proponent for NW Florida. Previous 2000-2006 Superintendant of Schools for Okaloosa County, he was in Pensacola handing out awards to various “A” schools in the area. Sen. Gaetz went on to discuss the overall state of the State noting that after 35 years of increasing revenues for the state coffers, we are now dealing with the third straight year of reductions. The budget that was $73B in 2006 will be only $62B this year. This has been quite a wake-up call in Tallahassee in cost efficiences. In order to lower costs, he recommended a thorough scrubbing of the budget and elimination of governmental/bureaucratic redundancies and hindrances for Florida businesses. Why, for example, does it take 17 different stops at the State level in order to get your beautician’s license? And, does it really make sense that 12 separate governmental agencies influence the operations of a charter boat on a fishing trip?  Florida needs to not only recruit new industries but cultivate those established businesses already here to ensure their continued development.
President Keith thanked Collier Merrill and David Stafford for their part in today’s program scheduling and introducing Sen. Gaetz. All others were thanked for their part. The meeting was adjourned.

Rotary Wheels

John Clark and the Council on Aging’s “clothes-less calendar” has sold well and been popular, but they still have a few copies left.
Several of the Rooters will be singing at the annual Realtors Christmas Breakfast, joining Auby Smith and Roger Enzor to herald the season. The Rooters are also practicing for their “showlet” during the club’s holiday luncheon.
Dale Knee’s Hospice group paid tribute to Sam and Joyce Goldenberg for the couple’s many forms of assistance in providing facilities for this cause.
Art Hufford was a big help to his wife putting on one of the big, traditional Christmas Coffees which scores of ladies enjoy.
Hats off to Ted Nickinson. The task of computerizing names and plot locations for St. John’s Cemetery’s almost 12,000 burials is all but complete.
Hear that Jack Williams and his elves are planning another gala New Year’s Eve celebration. And Al Coby an’ city folks are gearing up for a new kind of party-for-everyone that same evening.

Birthdays

Alan Moore, December 23, Pensacola, FL, 5 years
Phil Alvarez, December 23, St Louis, MO, 36 years
Reed Bell, December 24, Pensacola, FL, 9 years
Lavonne Agerton, December 26, Pensacola, FL, 14 years
Dale Jordan, December 27, Huntsville, AL, 18 years
Betty Roberts, January 1, McComb, MS, 4 years
Denise Windham, January 3, Pensacola, FL, 6 years
Sherry Hartnett, January 4, Alexandria, VA, 3 years
Sandy Jennings, January 5, Alabaster, AL, 5 years

Extra

MEMBERSHIP PROPOSAL:

Jason Crawford
Upon graduating from high school, Jason enlisted in the U. S. Army and served a total of 8 years.  After leaving active duty he became a member of the Florida Army National Guard while attending the University of West Florida.

Jason completed his bachelor’s degree in Business Management at the University of West Florida.  He is a business development director with O’Sullivan Creel, LLP.  In May of 2004, the Pensacola News Journal selected Jason as one of the Top 40 Community Leaders Under 40 Years Old in the Pensacola area.  He is dedicated to this community and is one of the founding members and past chairman of the Pensacola Young Professionals.  Jason also serves as a board member for Baptist Health Care and the Pensacola Bay Area Chamber of Commerce.
Jason and his wife Heather grew up together in the small town of Franklinton, Louisiana and currently reside in Pensacola, Florida.

Charles Goldsborough
The Reverend Charles Neal Goldsborough (goes by “Neal”) is the 17th Rector of Christ Episcopal Church, Pensacola.  Born in Bethesda, Maryland, he grew up in Culpepper, Virginia. He received bachelors and masters degrees from Old Dominion University and Virginia Commonwealth University, respectively. . He received his Masters of Divinity degree from the Virginia Theological Seminary in 1981. Neal served Episcopal churches in Virginia for 20 years and in the Diocese of Rhode Island from 2001 to 2008.  He came to Christ Church in September, 2008.  He is married to Carol, whom he met in grade school, and they have one son who is a law school student in New Orleans.  Neal served as a field artillery corporal with the U.S. Army in Korea.  He subsequently served as a Chaplain in the U.S. Naval Reserve where he retired with the rank of Captain.  He was recalled to active duty from January to November 2005, serving at a combat support hospital in Kuwait. Neal’s personal interests include motorcycling, painting icons woodworking, reading, fly fishing and genealogy.

Last Meeting: December 9, 2008

Outside, the day was cloudy and threatened rain, but inside, all Rotarians, visitors and guests were met with a warm smile and a firm handshake by Martin Small and Auby Smith.
President Keith called the meeting to order and led everyone in the Four Way Test.  John Trawick then led all in attendance in the prayer and pledge. 
President Keith reminded the group that there would be no meeting on December 30, 2008.  He then introduced John Appleyard who read a resolution honoring the life of the late Gene Elebash.  The resolution passed unanimously.
President Keith then brought before the group the vote on the proposed slate of officers and directors of the Club.  Upon motion, the slate of proposed officers and directors was approved by unanimous acclamation.
President Keith then reminded all in attendance that Earl Hutto’s group could use some assistance with Salvation Army bell ringing during the holiday season.  Earl Hutto had high praise for Morris Eaddy, John Shaffer and Ed Wonders who have assisted tremendously with this endeavor.
The raffle of $76 was won (again) by George Biggs.
Hugh Hamilton then presented sunshine to the group.  He first introduced our two military guests, both Ensigns in the United States Navy.  He then introduced guests and visiting Rotarians, followed by Pastor Hamilton’s humorous story involving the “damned angels” which actually presented an ironic instance of human conduct attempting to interfere with the expressions of God’s love. 
Hugh Hamilton then led the group in singing “Happy Birthday” to the birthday celebrants, accompanied by John Appleyard on the piano.
Paul Young then introduced our guest speaker, actually one of our own, Vice Admiral Gerald Hoewing.  Admiral Hoewing previously was Deputy Chief of Naval Operations before he retired and became affiliated with the National Flight Academy.  He noted the tremendous work performed by other leaders which have led to the establishment of the National Flight Academy, namely Bob Rasmussen, Skip Furlong and the late Jack Fetterman.
The National Flight Academy now has been approved by the Navy.  The Academy, which is in its final design process, has three purposes:  to excite the kids, to improve the kids’ substantive knowledge of math and science, and to present a wonderful time for all of the kids who participate.
Admiral Hoewing introduced three of the individuals who are actively involved with the National Flight Academy, Shelly Ragsdale, Erin West and Kevin King, a/k/a “Elvis” King.
Elvis King is the Vice President at the National Flight Academy and presented the remainder of the program.  Elvis King has been on the job for three months.  The National Flight Academy’s vision is based on “STEM.”  STEM consists of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math.  The goal is to use the wonderful experiences at the National Flight Academy to improve students’ abilities in each of these areas.  The Academy uses an accredited curriculum in working towards its goal.
One way to foster learning is for students to truly enjoy the experience.  Their enjoyment is encouraged through team competitions in a “synthetic learning environment.”
The synthetic learning environment is based upon an aviation setting, such as living and learning in the setting of an aircraft carrier.  The students will enjoy learning surrounded by a physical world that is representative of carrier life.
In addition to the physical world, they will enjoy the simulation of a virtual world focused on math and science but presented in an exceptionally entertaining way.  This synthetic learning experience will promote the students’ understanding of math and science.
The final design is now in process, borings have begun, and construction is expected to begin in the spring of 2009.  The Academy expects to open its doors in May of 2011, the 100th Anniversary of Flight.
The Academy and Foundation already have in place $19.5 million which is sufficient for construction of the building.  In addition, there is $7 million available for construction of the Annex.  The Academy and Foundation hope to raise an additional $15 million, with $3 million coming from a local campaign, for the services to be provided at the Academy.
The floor was then opened to questions for Admiral Hoewing regarding the National Flight Academy.  The question and answer session confirmed that operations would be funded not only through contributions but also through tuition (approximately $890 for the 5-1/2 day program).  Eventually, the Academy hopes to have an endowment and scholarships for participating students.  The programs will be available from March through November of each year, and projections are that there should be close to 100% enrollment during each of these months.
The student population will consist of students in grades 7 through 12.  Prior to their actual attendance at the Academy, they will have online presentations and programs, which will prepare them for their attendance.  In addition, there will be a continuation via online studies and presentations after their attendance to continue their education and their opportunities.
The program was well received by all in attendance.  Paul Young thanked Admiral Hoewing, Elvis King and all others involved with the National Flight Academy who attended our meeting.
President Keith thanked all participating in our meeting, reminding everyone to “Make Dreams Real,” and adjourned the meeting at approximately 1:05 p.m.

Rotary Wheels

Bill Baxter, who doesn’t drive following a recent illness, DOES get to some appointments driving a unique scooter (unmotorized). They say he’s very good at it.
It may be a rumor, but the Lady Rooters just might appear soon. However, Sally Fox won’t be quoted.
The United Way Victory Rally saw a number of members on stage. Jean Norman led the way. Joe Rosenbaum’s firm was a major donor in its size class. Collier Merrill had headed the large individual gifts section. The campaign still has a way to go, and not-for-profit principals like John Clark and Leigh Broxton say that needs are great but money sources down.
Thanks to all who’re ringing the Salvation Army bells. There, too, needs are high.
Gerry Hoewing and the Naval Museum presented a special program to recognize December Seventh and Pearl Harbor Day.

Birthdays

Scott Barrow, Dec. 17, Pensacola, FL, 5 years
Brad Butcher, Dec 19, Chippewa Falls, WI, 21 years
Bob Switzer, Dec 20, Pensacola, FL, 18 years
Bill Baxter, Dec 22, Pensacola, FL, 28 years
Jerry Maygarden, Dec 22, Pensacola, FL, 20 years

Extra

MEMBERSHIP PROPOSAL:

Jason Crawford
Upon graduating from high school, Jason enlisted in the U. S. Army and served a total of 8 years.  After leaving active duty he became a member of the Florida Army National Guard while attending the University of West Florida.

Jason completed his bachelor’s degree in Business Management at the University of West Florida.  He is a business development director with O’Sullivan Creel, LLP.  In May of 2004, the Pensacola News Journal selected Jason as one of the Top 40 Community Leaders Under 40 Years Old in the Pensacola area.  He is dedicated to this community and is one of the founding members and past chairman of the Pensacola Young Professionals.  Jason also serves as a board member for Baptist Health Care and the Pensacola Bay Area Chamber of Commerce.
Jason and his wife Heather grew up together in the small town of Franklinton, Louisiana and currently reside in Pensacola, Florida.

Charles Goldsborough
The Reverend Charles Neal Goldsborough (goes by “Neal”) is the 17th Rector of Christ Episcopal Church, Pensacola.  Born in Bethesda, Maryland, he grew up in Culpepper, Virginia. He received bachelors and masters degrees from Old Dominion University and Virginia Commonwealth University, respectively. . He received his Masters of Divinity degree from the Virginia Theological Seminary in 1981. Neal served Episcopal churches in Virginia for 20 years and in the Diocese of Rhode Island from 2001 to 2008.  He came to Christ Church in September, 2008.  He is married to Carol, whom he met in grade school, and they have one son who is a law school student in New Orleans.  Neal served as a field artillery corporal with the U.S. Army in Korea.  He subsequently served as a Chaplain in the U.S. Naval Reserve where he retired with the rank of Captain.  He was recalled to active duty from January to November 2005, serving at a combat support hospital in Kuwait. Neal’s personal interests include motorcycling, painting icons woodworking, reading, fly fishing and genealogy.

Last Meeting: December 2, 2008

Warm greetings on this cool but sunny day came from District Governor Ron Richards and Roger Sherman, while Claudia Simmons, Charlie Sherrill and Tim Kane handled ticket sales. President Bullock called the meeting to order and led us in the four-way test. Prayer and pledge was led by Bob Gaines.

President Bullock began announcements with changes to upcoming meetings: no meeting on Dec 30th and the Jan 6th and Jan 13th meetings will be at the Civic Center. Next week we will vote on next year’s Rotary Board. Earl Hutto encouraged Rotarians to sign up as bell ringers for the Salvation Army. Today’s $70 raffle winner, John Soule, let out a huge “Roll Tide” upon learning he’d won.

Mr. Sunshine, Vince Currie, received a rousing welcome before he introduced visiting guests. He then amused everyone with a short test involving giraffes, elephants, and refrigerators. Birthday cheers went out to members, followed by a short reading entitled “Don’t Worry”.

Ellis Bullock introduced today’s speakers, John Peacock and Scott Remington. They represent the Escambia All for One P.A.C. and presented their views on a unified government and why they think we need it.

John reinforced that it is not a negative reflection on the staff or elected officials currently in our local government, it’s about systemic problems. The recommended political and function consolidation would include Escambia County, the City of Pensacola, and Century. Reasons for the change include:

• the current system is fragmented, with duplication and inefficiencies
• our market is currently overlooked due to our small size
• need for increased accountability
• economy of scale, not just cost savings but the potential for increased revenue

Scott shared that a year ago a group went to Jacksonville and came back excited about the opportunities. Last spring they created a group that has been meeting periodically. They have recently gotten the City Council, County Council, and Century to agree to the formation of a commission. Their timeline for change:

• Nov/Dec 2008: local support
• Jan – April 2009: local bill
• May 2009: constitutional commission
• June – May 2010: commission work
• Aug or Nov 2010: referendum

They closed their presentation by letting everyone know that they are just at the beginning of this venture and still have a long way to go.

President Bullock closed the meeting by thanking all who participated, and “Make Dreams Real”.

Rotary Wheels

Alan Moore’s about to don tails and look real sharp as his daughter is presented in the annual Cotillion.
Our own William (Bob) Hart is one of those smiling as retail trade skids. The Walmart stores appear to be enjoying the product of years of marketing skill.
Drive by and see Jimmy Coe’s decorative window at the family hardware store. No doubt Christmas is coming.
Football talk for the year wouldn’t be complete without a cheer for John Hinman’s Rebels. He’s all smiles.
Jerry Maygarden has another title. Gov. Crist has appointed him to the Florida Housing Finance Corporation.

Birthdays

Chris Klotz, December 11, Portland, ME, in Rotary 5 years
Bryan McCall, December 14, Pasadena, TX, 3 years
Phil Turner, December 14, Russellville, AL, 3 years
Richard Sherrill, December 14, Pensacola, FL, 9 years
Ray Jones, December 15, Rockingham, NC, 7 years

Extra

MEMBERSHIP PROPOSAL:

Jason Crawford
Upon graduating from high school, Jason enlisted in the U. S. Army and served a total of 8 years.  After leaving active duty he became a member of the Florida Army National Guard while attending the University of West Florida.
Jason completed his bachelor’s degree in Business Management at the University of West Florida.  He is a business development director with O’Sullivan Creel, LLP.  In May of 2004, the Pensacola News Journal selected Jason as one of the Top 40 Community Leaders Under 40 Years Old in the Pensacola area.  He is dedicated to this community and is one of the founding members and past chairman of the Pensacola Young Professionals.  Jason also serves as a board member for Baptist Health Care and the Pensacola Bay Area Chamber of Commerce.
Jason and his wife Heather grew up together in the small town of Franklinton, Louisiana and currently reside in Pensacola, Florida.

Last Meeting: November 25, 2008

Rotarians were greeted by Alan Moore and Ron Richards.  Raffle tickets were sold by John Shaffer.
President Keith began the meeting by announcing the passing of Eugene Elebash this morning. He called for a moment of silence in remembrance of Gene, his family and friends.
President Keith led the four way test.  He thanked fellow Rotarians for their support of Sandra Smith as she helped us meet the goals for Manna Food Bank. Shawn Brantley gave the prayer and led the Pledge of Allegiance.
John Appleyard was called upon by President Keith to give a Resolution in memory of Dr. Frank Creel. Dr. Creel is remembered for his service to the military and country. He was also a pioneer in the development of the Medical Center Clinic, West Florida Regional Medical Center, The Pavilion and was Director Emeritus for Lakeview Center.
Dr. Creel’s career was in psychiatry. He lived to be 83 years old and was a member of Christ Church. He served as a Rotarian for seventeen years. The resolution was accepted by full membership and will be copied to Dr. Creel’s wife and daughters.
Charles Beall introduced new member Chris Klotz who moved to Pensacola from Jackson, Mississippi. He is an attorney along with his wife who also attended. His practice is in criminal law. He was a Rotarian in Jackson and was a Paul Harris Fellow.
Earl Hutto called upon the membership to help with Bell Ringing. He said there are many slots to fill on the weekends each Friday and Saturday thru Christmas. The Interact Students will assist but he needs members to sign up for a 2 hour slot.
The Rotary Rooters entertained with two farming heritage songs. Sally Fox was Sunshine and introduced military, guests and visiting Rotarians. She announced birthdays and John Appleyard played the song and we sang.
Program Chairman David Stafford introduced our guest speaker, Charles Gonzalez. Charles, who was born in Pensacola and has worked for the West Florida Regional Planning Council and the Downtown Improvement Board, now directs the Escambia County Information System. This involves internet mapping and geographical information network about Escambia County. The computer system is called IMAGINE.
Charles gave examples of how information is kept about the country regarding: base maps, legislative redistricting, crime locations, school districts, public works, emergency management, environmental monitoring, sales territories, health care, new markets, real estate, retail marketing, etc. He invited us to look at the site or come by for confidential assistance regarding all kinds of information about the county. The website is http://www.myescambia.com. The office is located at 1190 West Leonard Street.
President Keith adjourned the meeting and encouraged all to help with Bell Ringing. He thanked all who helped with today’s program.

Rotary Wheels

So sorry to report that Carol Powell’s mother, Dotty Whitcomb, passed away recently.  Dotty was well known as a swimming coach and aquatics promoter.

Credit Jack Nobles with saving the city about $40,000.  His decision to withdraw from a runoff election was real statesmanship.  Attaboy!

Didja know that Art Hufford serves as treasurer for Randy Jackson’s First Presbyterian Church? 

Debbie Ford and our other UWF staff members are on a high over the accoplimshments of university sports teams.  There are those who are beating the drum for football there.

Ed Ranelli is part of the Charter Commission laboring to provide new ideas for Pensacola’s city operations.  Oh…and in a recent public statement Mayor Elect Mike Wiggins had many good things to say about the performanc eof member Al Coby as interim city manager.

Jean Norman and the United Way team are fueling interest in the United Way Foundation, which seeks commitments from willing citizens to provide contributions via last will and testament to enable the Foundation to one day meet all of the basic organization’s operating expenses.

Birthdays

Wright Moulton, December 3, Pensacola, FL, 29 years
Ted Nickinson, December 4, Pensacola, FL, 30 years
Glenn McDonald, December 7, Pensacola, FL, 34 years

Extra

MEETING REMINDERS:

We will not be meeting on Tuesday, December 29.
On January 6 and January 13, 2009, our club will be meeting at the Pensacola Civic Center. The meeting room at New World Landing will be undergoing renovations.

NOMINATIONS FOR 09/10 YEAR:

The nominating committee proposes the following slate for the 09/10 rotary year:

President:  Margaret Stopp

President Elect: Ray Jones

Secretary: Innes Richards

Treasurer: Ron Jackson

Sear gent at Arms: Tim Kane

Past President: Keith Bullock

Board members for the ‘09 through ‘11 term: (to be voted on)

Henry Roberts

Shawn Brantley

Andrea Farage

David Stafford

Continuing Board members will be: (not to be voted on)

Tommy Tait

Rex McKinney

Debbie Ford

Sandra Smith

Elections will be held at the December 9th meeting.

Nominations can be proposed from the floor.

BELL RINGING VOLUNTEERS NEEDED:

Rotarian Earl Hutto is lining up bell ringers for the Salvation Army.  Please call Earl at 476-9866 or email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) to let him know what 2 hour time block you can volunteer.  Locations are as follows:  Best Buy, Sams, Cordova Mall and the Walmart Creighton Location.  Dates are as follows:  December 5-6, December 12-13, and December 19-20.

Last Meeting: November 18, 2008

Rotarians were greeted by Debbie Ford and Carol Law. Sandra Smith encouraged all to participate in donations to Manna Food Bank.
President Keith called the meeting to order and welcomed all attending. President Keith called upon Leonard Swartz to give the prayer and led the Pledge of Allegiance. A special recognition was made to Bo Carter with a Paul Harris Plus 5 for his continued work for Rotary International and all other Rotary projects.
Henry Roberts introduced Dr. Ephtimios with Sacred Heart Hospital as a new member of the club. Dr. Ephtimios works in the infectious control department at Sacred Heart Hospital. Sandra Smith spoke to the club about the needs of Manna Food Bank in helping the needy in our community. She said the numbers of those in need of food have increased due to lay offs in the area. Earl Hutto encouraged club members to sign up for the annual Bell Ringing which will be held at Best Buy, Sam’s Club and at some of the Walmarts. Earl said there are lots of time slots available and asked everyone who can to sign up for the event. Bell ringing will be conducted on Fridays and Saturdays over four weekends beginning November 28 and 29. Another announcement included the groundbreaking for the new Ronald McDonald building on Bayou Boulevard today. R P (Rodger) Doyle gave us some Sunshine by welcoming the military, visitors and Rotary visitors. He also noted the birthdays of “Skippy” Furlong, Ben Early and Bill Elebash. He led us in the birthday song. Applause was heard for the sunshine story he told. Thanks RP.
Our speaker was Tim Evans, Executive Director of Manna Food Bank. Tim told us about his work at Manna and his work on helping poverty in Escambia County. He talked about the “Bridges Out of Poverty” program that is currently being addressed. He recognized Sam Goldenberg for his strong support of the program. He said that Escambia County has one of the highest incidences of poverty in the state. The objective of the program is to reduce poverty ½ over a twelve year period. The long term goal is to see Escambia as a community without poverty. He said this program is both national and statewide as it takes a nationwide effort to sustain the resources needed in all cities. He encouraged all to join in this vision of uniting Escambia County to accept our responsibility in addressing the issues of poverty.
President Keith thanked Tim for his talk and all who participated in making our meeting a success.

Rotary Wheels

A salute to Andrea Farage and her McDonald’s group. They’ve broken ground on the new Ronald McDonald House which will aid parents of children in Sacred Heart’s specialty hospital.
Cal Moore and Miller Caldwell are mighty pleased at the progress of the bronze figure of De Luna that their committee’s been pursuing. Sculptor Bob Rasmussen is well along on the work, which is supposed to be dedicated as
De Luna Park in April. Another 450th Anniversary note: Coy Irwin succeeded in having the new issue of the AT&T Phone Book cover show the official seal and art for the celebration.
Hats off to Sam Goldenberg and Sandra Smith for their ongoing efforts on behalf of Manna Food Bank. In this difficult year the work of that and similar agencies is truly important.
Mort O’Sullivan was one of the speakers at the funeral for long-time Rotarian Carl Leahy. Mort did a fine job.

Birthdays

Alan Bookman, November 28, New Orleans, LA, 30 years
Gary Bembry, November 29, Tallahassee, FL, 8 years
Dave Galloway, November 29, Atlanta, GA, 38 years
Auby Smith, November 29, Boaz, AL, 4 years
Jimmy Coe, November 30, Pensacola, FL, 18 years
Debbie Ford, December 1, Owensboro, KY, 5 years.

Extra

NOMINATIONS FOR 09/10 YEAR:

The nominating committee proposes the following slate for the 09/10 rotary year:
President:  Margaret Stopp
President Elect: Ray Jones
Secretary: Innes Richards
Treasurer: Ron Jackson
Sear gent at Arms: Tim Kane
Past President: Keith Bullock

Board members for the ‘09 through ‘11 term: (to be voted on)
Henry Roberts
Shawn Brantley
Andrea Farage
David Stafford

Continuing Board members will be: (not to be voted on)
Tommy Tait
Rex McKinney
Debbie Ford
Sandra Smith

Elections will be held at the December 9th meeting.
Nominations can be proposed from the floor.

Last Meeting: November 11, 2008

Members were greeted by Andrea Farage. Martin Harwood sold raffle tickets as members arrived.
President Keith Bullock called the meeting to order. Charlie Sherrill gave the prayer and members recited the Pledge of Allegiance and the Four Way Test.
John Appleyard was called by President Keith to make a resolution remembering the life of Bill Fleming. Mr. Fleming was a graduate of Pensacola High School and the University of Florida. He served in the Air Force in World War II and the Korean War before separation from the service as a Lt. Colonel. Mr. Fleming’s career took him into the business of insurance and served as a model of community service. He was recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow. John resolved to the membership and President Keith to provide the Fleming family with a copy of the remembrance and that this be noted in Rotary permanent record.
President Keith recognized those who were involved in helping foreign exchange students. Foreign exchange student Frederick from Copenhagen, Denmark gave testimony to Rotary and to his host family of Robert Mills about the wonderful opportunity he has had to learn a new language, attend schools and learn about the U.S. He is in the eleventh grade. Foreign exchange students rotate with different host families in the area.
President Keith called on Board Member Sandra Smith who was collecting monies for the Manna Bank Food Program. Sandra introduced student Regan Humphries who was helping collect and had made a poster. Sandra pointed out that last year there were about 1500 families who needed help but that this year there are 2100 families in needed. She encouraged all to make a donation and that they could make one at the next meeting as well.
Carol Law was recognized by President Keith with a Rotary Paul Harris plus 2 pin for her support of Rotary International projects. Grover Robinson III gave us some sunshine with a hint of humor, visitor recognition and birthday remembrances.
Our guest speaker was Al Stubblefield, President and CEO of Baptist Healthcare. Al spoke about the impending acquisition of West Florida Hospital. He told of the patient census of both hospitals which show a high number of hospital beds that go unused. He said the intent of the acquisition is to redefine healthcare in the community. He mentioned that there was a huge duplication of services in both hospitals and that this would be eliminated. He said that the financial acquisition plan totals about $245 million with an additional renovation project of $75 million. There will be an additional 50,000 square foot building added at Baptist Medical Park. He further explained that the healthcare needs of the community would continue to be met.
President Keith thanked Al for his update on Baptist Healthcare activities and adjourned the meeting.

Rotary Wheels

Bruce Partington took on a new function when he acted as a poll-watching attorney representing the Obama campaign.
Debbie Ford and UWF are planning another BIG move to bring students on campus. Proposed is a new 200-unit plus dorm, to be ready in about two years.
Bill Elebash says that he believes the two-way Palafox traffic will boost downtown visitation. Bill should know. The Elebashes are one of the longest- standing merchants on that street, dating back almost 90 years.
Collier Merrill’s Fish House was the site of much election night celebrating. The popular diner also now has 1620 News Radio broadcasting from there several days each week.
Grover Robinson may be getting ready to write a mystery story. The title: “Where’s The Missing $17 Million?”  Bet he finds it.

Birthdays

Skip Furlong, November 23, Muskogee, OK, 22 years
Ben Early, November 24, Pensacola, FL, 37 years
Bill Elebash, November 24, Pensacola, FL, 17 years

Extra

NOMINATIONS FOR 09/10 YEAR:

The nominating committee proposes the following slate for the 09/10 rotary year:
President:  Margaret Stopp
President Elect: Ray Jones
Secretary: Innes Richards
Treasurer: Ron Jackson
Sear gent at Arms: Tim Kane
Past President: Keith Bullock
Board members for the ‘09 through ‘11 term: (to be voted on)
Henry Roberts
Shaun Brantley
Andrea Farage
David Stafford
Continuing Board members will be: (not to be voted on)
Tommy Tait
Rex McKinney
Debbie Ford
Sandra Smith
Elections will be held at the December 9th meeting.
Nominations can be proposed from the floor.

Announcement:

The Rotary Club of Pensacola will be collecting monetary donations on Tuesday,  November 19 for the Manna Food Bank.  YOUR $10 donation can fill a bag full of groceries for one of approximately 2100 families that are in need this holiday season.  Our goal is to collect $2000.

Last Meeting: November 3, 2008

The Combined Rotary Clubs of Greater Pensacola (CROP) met Monday, November 3, 2008 at New World Landing to hold the annual Rotary Military Appreciation Luncheon.
The luncheon is designed to honor and recognize our military heroes. Club Presidents makeup the membership of (CROP) in Greater Pensacola.
Ed Boywid, President of CROP and AG AREA 1, and member of the Cantonment Rotary Club welcomed everyone. Father Jack Gray, member of Pensacola Rotary and Pastor of St. Anne’s Catholic Church, gave the prayer. The combined military color guard accompanied by McGuire’s Pipe Band opened the program and presented the flags to those attending. The Pledge of Allegiance and the Rotary Four Way Test was led by Bo Brantley, President of Tri-Cities Rotary.
Ferd Salomon III, member of Sub West Rotary, welcomed honored guests, military and community leaders. CROP President Ed Boywid, introduced guest speaker, Lieutenant Colonel Everett S. Spain, who is currently assigned as a White House Fellow with the Department of Treasury. Lt. Col Spain is “home town grown” and attended local schools and churches in Pensacola. Lt. Col. Spain spoke to attendees about his role as military aid to the general in Iraq and his military career. He was most poignant as he recognized the patriotism and commitment of the men and women he serves with in the military. Even though he spoke with great seriousness and vision, he intertwined a touch of humor as he told of an incident involving a flurry of wind and the general’s notebook of top secret papers engulfed and scattered about by the winds of helicopters.
Lt. Col. Spain’s father, Bill Spain member of Sub-West, proudly listened to his son’s accomplishments and world vision. He received a standing round of applause and appreciation from guests and Rotarians as he ended his talk.
Ed Boywind, thanked everyone for attending this annual meeting.

Rotary Wheels

A pat on the back to Jean Norman and the many volunteers who provided the Annual Day of Caring, benefitting more than eighty families and area programs. Several of our member firms made people available.
Be sure to watch Sandy Ray’s TV station (WSRE) on November 5th at seven o’clock for the initial showing of their documentary film showing our own Veterans Park.
See where new member Ed Meadows and Jim Martin are to begin a fourth PJC campus, near Navarre.
Susan O’Conner’s photo made the press at the IMPACT 100 meeting where member ladies voted on distribution of $563,000 to five worthy causes. Several other members are part of IMPACT.
Bob Rogers and the Waterfront Rescue Mission staff and volunteers are gearing up for a huge Thanksgiving feast for the homeless. The mission has been part of helping locally for almost sixty years.

Birthdays

Bruce Partington, November 11, Annapolis, MD, 9 years
Nigel Allen, November 11, Plainfield, NJ, 2 years
Britt Landrum, November 12, Montgomery, AL, 2 years
John Appleyard, November 14, Chicago, IL, 43 years
Robert Mills, November 15, Atlanta, GA, 10 years
Christina Littlejohn, November 15, Chapel Hill, NC, 7 years
Leslie Halsall, November 17, Memphis, TN, 2 years
Randy Jackson, November 17, Murfreesboro, TN, 2 years

Extra

NOMINATIONS FOR 09/10 YEAR:
Board Member Nominations:
Henry Roberts, David Stafford, Andrea Farage, Shawn Brantley
Secretary Nomination:  Innes Richards
Treasurer Nomination:  Ron Jackson Sergeant:  Tim Kane
President Elect:  Ray Jones
Elections will be held on Tuesday, December 2. 

Announcement:
The Rotary Club of Pensacola will be collecting monetary donations on Tuesday, November 11 and Tuesday, November 19 for the Manna Food Bank.  YOUR $10 donation can fill a bag full of groceries for one of approximately 2100 families that are in need this holiday season.  Our goal is to collect $2000.

Last Meeting: October 28, 2008

Charles Gund and Scott Barrow offered a hearty handshake and occasional hug to Rotarians attending the last meeting before Election Day 2008. President Keith began the meeting with a moment of silence for the passing of club members Frank Creel and Jack Flemming – they will be missed.

Betty Gail Peters led all in the prayer and pledge and President Keith asked Sam Goldenberg to discuss the food bag program Manna Food Bank is doing for the holiday season. Sam estimates that they will disburse over 1100 bags this year just from the donations of our club but he needs everyone’s support. Margaret Stopp solicited support of the “Illiteracy is an Injustice” program that is bringing book bags to the courts for children to enjoy. And if you like to have your “bell rung” you need to talk to Earl Hutto (don’t worry, he will fill you in).

Lucky Gene Killinger won a whopping $67 greenbacks and we were off to Sunshine.

Witty Al “not grinning Grover” Stubblefield took Sunshine to a new level with a couple of great jokes plus skillfully introducing our guests, visitors, and birthday boys and girls.

The program: David Stafford introduced the last of the political candidate debates for the Escambia County Superintendent of Schools – Malcom Thomas and Claudia Brown-Curry. Both candidates introduced themselves and stated why they would be the best choice for Super. Malcom is currently Director of Evaluation Services for the district and Claudia currently serves as a school board member for District 3. Both candidates are lifelong educators and spoke passionately about what they would bring to the position should they be elected. Some of the questions included: “Do we have too many Schools?”, “What is the biggest challenge facing the county?”, and “Do you support the FCAT?” There were no additional questions allowed and the meeting came to a close. Respectfully submitted, Clark Merritt.

Rotary Wheels

Rumor has it that Jack Williams and family are in the process of renovating another East Government Street building with the prospect of adding it to their entertainment complex.
Didja see Judge Bill Stafford warbling with the Rooters last week? The judge has a fine bass voice, something the Rooters have wanted for a long time.
     
David Stafford showed how far ahead of the curve his department has become in handling early voting. That advance opportunity’s become very popular.
So sorry to report that J. J. Coonan is seriously ill.
Jack Gray informed friends recently that he will step down from his St. Anne’s post next May when he reached a critical birthday. But don’t expect Jack to retire. He’ll probably run for public office or something like that. Jack’s shown the community a fine leadership spirit.
John Appleyard delivered first copies of his new book A History of Brewton on October 28th. The 300 page coffee table v volume covers the area to the north from native American times to 1985, the year the city celebrated its centennial.

Birthdays

Extra

Reminder From President Keith:
Thank you to everyone who is serving on the Greeter and Raffle Committee.  This is a key role in our weekly meetings!  If you are scheduled, please arrive to the meetings by 11:40 a.m. and if you are unable to keep your commitment please find a replacement. Thanks!

NOMINATIONS FOR 09/10 YEAR:
Board Member Nominations:
Henry Roberts, David Stafford, Andrea Farage, Shawn Brantley
Secretary Nomination:  Innes Richards
Treasurer Nomination:  Ron Jackson Sergeant:  Tim Kane
President Elect:  Ray Jones
Elections will be held on Tuesday, December 2. 

Last Meeting: October 21, 2008

Members were welcomed by Richard Sherrill who sold only winning tickets.

President Keith Bullock called the meeting to order. He reminder those who would like to serve on the board of directors or other officials within the organization to let him know.
Also, that on November 5, we will be having Rotary Family nite at Jackson’s from 5 to 7pm. All are encouraged to sign up for this. Also, that on November 3, 2008, it will be Military Appreciation beginning at 12:15pm.
Judge Roger Vinson gave the prayer and led the Pledge of Alliangance. Charley Blackwell introduced our military guests, visiting Rotarians and other guests. Birthdays were celebrated with music from John Appleyard. The Rotary Rooters serenaded members with a Nashville Connection medley of songs.
David Stafford and Paul Young arranged for today’s speakers representing candidates for Mayor of Pensacola.  Three candidates were invited, they are: C.J. Lewis, Eric Schmitz and Mike Wiggins. Candidate C. J. Lewis was unable to attend.  Paul Young stipulated the time limit and organization of questions to the candidates and time limits for answers.
Candidates were quizzed on : Who they are, background and experience;  Why they want to be Mayor; What their position is on consolidated government; What stand do they take on the Community Maritime Park and the future of the port of Pensacola.
Specifics discussed included the Jacksonville and Austin, Texas models of government, economic development, millage rate, job growth, consolidation of government services; and what should be built first as part of the Community Maritime Park.
David Stafford thanked both politicians. President Keith thanked all and meeting was adjourned.

Rotary Wheels

Good members Janet Pilcher, Morris Marx, Debbie Ford and Ed Ranelli may soon be seen as part of a broad UWF promotional campaign, aimed at higher enrollment. This term the university has over 9,000 students.
Just a few days left for Jack Nobles to shake additional hands. Competition for the at-large city council seat is hot this time. And, noting city affairs, there’s word that some old-timers are about to mount a program to get the city to exercise its right to fill additional land adjacent to the Maritime Park property. Much of the planned park’s property was fill, put in place 120 years ago. If we want more waterfront, why not make it? (Another neat project for Al Coby.)
Sorry to report that long-time member, past president (1967-68) and Paul Harris Fellow Bill Fleming has died. Bill’s brother Jack remains an active member.
Hats off to Alan Bookman for his scholarly paraphrasing of the Constitutional Amendments to be voted on November 4th.
Coy Irwin and the Guardians report that all 101 WWII vets made the Honor Flight in good health and high spirits. Now the Flight Committee, which includes members Jerry Maygarden and John Appleyard, is about to alter its operations, establishing its own charitable status to handle funding for future flights. Number 3 is set for next spring.

Birthdays

Collier Merrill:  October 28, Pensacola, FL, 19 years
Jeff Powell:  October 28, Pensacola, FL, 8 years
Bill Davis:  October 29, DeFuniak Springs, FL, 30 years
Jim Mitchell:  October 30, Ft. Sill, OK, 13 years
Oliver Soule:  October 30, Pensacola, FL, 38 years
Sandy Cesaretti Ray:  November 1, Miami, FL, 11 years
Wanda Cross:  November 2, Washington DC, 3 years
Alison Rogers:  November 8, Scott AFB, IL, 8 years

Extra

MEMBERSHIP PROPOSALS:

Chris Klotz is the owner of Klotz Law Firm, sole practice focusing on criminal defense and general practice in state and federal courts. Chris graduated from Louisiana State University and Mississippi College School of Law.  Chris was recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow while serving in the Rotary Club Downtown Jackson, MS, 2003-2007.  He is married to Amy and has 2 children, ages 1 and 4.

Last Meeting: October 14, 2008

Minutes of the Membership Meeting of The Rotary Club of Pensacola
Welcome was extended to attendees by Scott Paul and with a greeting smile, Margaret Stopp sold raffle tickets on this beautiful fall day.
Al Stubblefield opened the meeting with our prayer and pledge.  President Keith reminded everyone that there will be a CROP Military Appreciation Meeting November 2nd and we will not meet November 3rd.  His father, Ellis, won the $70 raffle.  Jimmy Jones, M.D. introduced our USN military guests, visitors and visiting Rotarians.  Several excellent tales of humor were given followed by the birthday song to members.
Alan Bookman presented the Club a brief summery of the Constitutional Amendments that will appear on the ballot in November.  An excellent description can be found on the League of Women Voters of Florida website, http://www.lwvfla.org  (Election Info).
Paul Young introduced our own Jerry Maygarden who gave us a presentation on the Better Pensacola Forum survey taken this summer.  While at Baptist Hospital, Jerry recalled Quint Studer arriving and leading the hospital to excellence by involving all of the staff with the care and treatment of the customer, the patient.  Jerry also noted he asked Quint to try this same approach with the Florida Legislature but without the same success.  We might all think government should be run as a business, but in practice it is not that easy.  And, in some cases, not practical or possible at all.
The survey was to gauge our community’s success and act as a report card of the success of our community and local government.  Polling organizations were contacted to set up the survey.  Pollster Larry Harris was asked to finalize the poll and tabulate the results.  Eight hundred city and county residents were interviewed. The results were compiled and compared with national statistics.  The report indicated we were the worst the pollsters had ever seen on the public perception of the local situation.  The comments indicated the public is poised for change and wants change across the board in local government.
Job security was the main concern with no near term solutions seen.  High marks were given for quality of life and location of our area and things were not so bad for established residents.  But it mentions that over the next five years, a majority of our youth will seek opportunities elsewhere as they do not exist here, especially for new graduates and minorities.  There were similar sentiments in other parts of the U.S. studied, but none as bad as our area study response.  It bordered on despair.
Governmental consolidation would help reduce duplicate roles and lower the cost of government.  Representatives from Jacksonville met in Pensacola recently to discuss their consolidated government.  They observed that we were very similar to where Jacksonville was back in 1968 and we have a wond to make some very important changes for our future.  Bold leadership is needed right now for us to move forward.
Consolidation:  We need a current movement to give consolidated government a fare hearing.  Even governmental employees are grouping together to push for consolidation.  We would be the sixth largest city in Florida which would create great influence in program funding.
Collaboration:  Judy Bense, President of UWF is an example of doing a great job working with other universities and community colleges to work together eliminating duplication of efforts in Education.  Their collaboration is having a positive effect.
Coordination:  To attract new industry there needs to be an elimination of duplicate services.  Studies need to be made in multi-county transportation for the airport and the City port.  Promotion of our area assets as the beaches needs to be better presented.
There is poor efficiency in government with all of the duplication and layers of government.  Dialogue needs to start so we can begin to move forward on these issues.
Meeting adjourned.

Rotary Wheels

Jack Fleming and Ted Nickinson invite all hands and families to the St. John’s Cemetery ecumenical program in the cemetery on Saturday morning, November 1st, at ten o’clock. The annual All Saints Day observations are always colorful. Jack Gray will be one of the presenters. Twenty-five of the first Pensacola Rotary presidents are interred in St. John’s.
Again, note of what our own Sandra Jennings does as director of the county’s Perdido Landfill. She has an increasing role in managing the handling of huge tonnages of solid waste collected throughout the county.
Hear tell that Jimmy Jones will be a Calendar Boy in the 2009 Council on Aging calendar, which will be available soon. John Clark has again rounded up a host of celebrities to model.
Ronnie Labrato and his Gulf Power colleagues are taking a new approach to having us all conserve energy. The new computer-generated figures and TV commercials deal with everything from special light bulbs to solar installations.
Poor Bill Maloy and his library promoters continue to be in a political badminton game. Who WILL build and operate new facilities…where and when?
The local press featured Walter Strong and Mrs. Strong recently, detailing their years of Salvation Army service. That came just as our club organized for the annual bell ringing efforts.

Birthdays

Hal Minnich, October 21, Boiling Springs, PA, 47 years
Sally Cary, October 23, Mobile, AL, less than 1 year
Tom Owens, October 23, Pensacola, FL, 11 years
Billy Hale, October 24, Pensacola, FL, 5 years
Gene Killinger, October 24, Perry, FL, 32 years
Malcolm Williams, October 26, Pensacola, FL, 8 years
Alexis Bolin, October 27 , Long Branch, NJ, 14 years

Extra

ANNOUNCEMENT:

Family Of Rotary Fall Gathering will be Wednesday, November 5, 5 - 7 p.m. at Jackson’s Steakhouse.  Please join us for a fall social…..a little wine and appetizers paired with some great art by some of our outstanding local artists!  $15 per person.  Please sign up for yourself and any additional guests by emailing Maria Goldberg at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or sign up at this Tuesday’s Rotary meeting!

UPCOMING GREETERS AND RAFFLE SALES:

October 21:

Greeters: Randy Butler and Ed Meadows

Raffle:  Evon Emerson and Jack Gray

October 28:

Greeters:  Charles Gund and Clark Merritt

Raffle:  Tony Neuner and Susan O’Connor

Last Meeting: October 7, 2008

Outside, the sky was gray, the wind was howling, and the rain was falling, while inside, all Rotarians and guests were met with a smile and a hearty handshake by greeters, Maria Goldberg and Ray Jones.

President Keith called the meeting to order in a timely fashion and led everyone in the Four Way Test. Randy Johnson then led the group in the prayer and pledge.

President Keith reminded all in attendance of the need for bell ringers during the holiday season and that on Monday, November 3, Military Appreciation Day would be celebrated. Consequently, there will be no luncheon on Tuesday, November 4. The $48 raffle was won by our visiting Rotarian, Pam Smith.

Bob Hart then came to the podium to present sunshine to all in attendance. He first introduced our military guests, both of whom are Navy pilots and graduates of the United States Naval Academy. He then introduced our guests and visiting Rotarians and recounted the “gorilla in the tree” story. We then celebrated with song our birthdays accompanied by John Appleyard on the piano.

President Keith then introduced Grover Robinson who introduced our two speakers for the day. Our program focused on solid waste recycling in Escambia County, and our speakers were DeeDee Green and Jim Howes, both with the Escambia County Division of Solid Waste Management.

Jim Howes spoke first and provided a history of recycling efforts in Escambia County. From 1990 through 1996, recycling constituted “dirty recycling” whereby recyclable materials were included with all other solid waste. At that time, individuals sorted through the solid waste and separated out a portion of the recyclable materials. This not only was inefficient, collecting only a small percentage of recyclable materials, but also was a dirty and sometimes hazardous job.

In 1996, the Regional Drop Off Program began. A variety of sites exist around Escambia County whereby recyclable materials, including newspapers, cardboard, certain plastics and certain glass items, can be dropped off for recycling. There are 21 sites throughout Escambia County for drop off of these types of recyclable materials. Further information about recycling and drop-off sites can be found at “escambiarecycles.com.”

In addition, the Regional Roundup was instituted. This provides for drop-off sites on a periodic basis for certain types of hazardous wastes, including paints, solvents and other materials. The Regional Roundup has been very useful in avoiding having these types of hazardous materials in the landfill.

In addition, “landfill mining” has become a very effective tool for recycling. In landfill mining, old landfill refuse is dug up or mined, and recyclable materials extracted. Certain types of recyclable materials, including metals, have become more valuable over the years. This also makes additional space in the landfill for new materials to be deposited. There is a commitment not to further expand the size of the landfill but rather to utilize the existing landfill location to its maximum extent.

In July of 2008, a Curbside Recycling Program was begun as a pilot program in East Hill. Of the 365 customers available for curbside recycling, there was a 50% active participation on a weekly basis with a much higher percentage participating every two to three weeks.

Jim Howes then introduced DeeDee Green, also with the Escambia County Division of Solid Waste Management, who focuses on education outreach at our local schools. DeeDee provided additional information about other specific programs relating to recycling, including the Shoe Reuse and Recycling Program whereby new or gently used shoes are obtained for victims of disasters and others in need. This has been accomplished in part through “Soles 4 Souls.” Thousands of pairs of good shoes have been distributed in this manner.

DeeDee also focused on the Shopping Bag Program whereby plastic bags (which catch the wind like parachutes and seem to fly all along our roadways) can be avoided. DeeDee indicated that a large stack of shopping bags and related materials were available for pickup as our members departed the meeting. DeeDee also focused on the recycling of office materials which at this time does not include glass, as well as recycling of waste tires which have been used as ground cover (after being shredded) and fuel. One notable project that is becoming more and more useful is the reblending of used paint which is then used for homes by Habitat Humanity and for other charitable groups. In addition, methane created by the landfill is being sold to International Paper to use as fuel in its boilers.

Both Jim and DeeDee provided very useful information about the status of the recycling programs in our county and the future hopes for further improving these programs. They then invited questions from all in attendance. Their responses to numerous questions confirmed that old propane tanks and similar tanks holding fuels could be recycled and were desirable for recycling because of the value of metal. Our speakers, as well as our host, Grover Robinson, commented on the potential usefulness of consolidating trash pickup and recycling by the city and the county. Grover reminded all of us that recycling does not benefit the collector but benefits the landfill. Consequently, both the entity collecting and the landfill owner/operator must cooperate for consolidation of pickup and recycling efforts to work for all involved.

Our speakers also confirmed that the revenue stream from recycling totaled in excess of $400,000 last year but at this time does not quite cover all of the costs involved in recycling. They are continuing to work on increasing revenue, decreasing costs, and improving efficiencies. They noted that the landfill is an enterprise fund and does not receive funds from the general funds of the county.

Grover thanked both of our speakers for a most informative presentation as well as for good answers to the numerous questions from our attendees.

President Keith gave thanks to all involved and adjourned at approximately 1:10 p.m., reminding all to “Make Dreams Real.”

Rotary Wheels

Dale Knee and his Hospice associates are moving full speed on the addition to the Joyce Goldenberg treatment center, near UWF.
Hear tell that Collier Merrill’s phone rang off the hook as folks sought tickets to hear Vice Presidential nominee Sarah Palin.
Sandy Cesarett and staff had a big day October 4th.  The WSRE Amos Center was the site for orientation of the 102 WWII vets to make the second Honor Flight trip to Washington October 15th.  The vets, family members, the 33 Guardians, medical aids and all gathered to be sure all was ready for the adventure.

Birthdays

Brooks Champlin, October 14, Ft. Jackson, SC, 24 years
Bill Maloy, October 15, Des Moines, IA, 22 years
Jack Lowrey, October 16, Mobile, AL, 13 years
Audrey Young, October 17, Yuma, AZ, less than 1 year
Morris Eaddy, October 20, Bushnell, FL, 29 years

Last Meeting: September 30, 2008

Nora Bailey and Tom Frizzell greeted all Rotarians, visitors and guests with a warm greeting and firm handshake.  Shawn Brantley sold raffle tickets.
President Keith Bullock called the meeting to order early in order to allow more time for the program.  President Keith called upon Roger Doyle for the prayer and the pledge. Thereafter, President Keith led the group in the Four Way Test.
President Keith then called upon Richard Sherrill who introduced our visiting military guests, visitors and visiting Rotarians.  Richard then provided us with the days’ sunshine.
President Keith then called upon two Rotarians for a special introduction.  First, Yvonne Emerson introduced us to new Rotarian, Martin Small.  He is the new Market President for Wachovia in Pensacola.  He and his wife Page relocated to Pensacola during the summer.  They have two children.  He is excited to be living in our community and looks forward to being a member of Downtown Rotary.
President Keith then called upon Nora Bailey to introduce another new Rotarian, Christina Littlejohn.  Christina moved to Pensacola last year and she is the Executive Director of the Pensacola Symphony.  She is a native of South Carolina and attended undergraduate school at Furman University in Greenville, SC.  She has a graduate degree from the University of Cincinnati and was awarded the Helen M. Thompson award for achievement in symphony orchestras in 2001.  She and her husband have a 2 year old daughter.
The raffle drawing was for a total prize of $87 was awarded to Robert Mills.  Nice job on ticket sales Shawn!  Richard then recognized our Rotarians who were saluted with a rousing rendition of “Happy Birthday You All”.  The music was a just a little thin without the accompaniment of our own John Appleyard.
President Keith then gave the floor to our own fellow Rotarian and Escambia County Supervisor of Elections, David Stafford who introduced the two candidates for Escambia County Sheriff.  They are David Morgan who defeated the incumbent sheriff, Ron McNesby in the republican primary election and Larry Scapecchi, who defeated Sam Lucas in the democratic primary election.  Both candidates were asked to make a 2 minute introduction.  This was followed by five questions prepared by David Stafford based on a solicitation from club members for questions at an earlier meeting.
Both candidates were asked to address the following questions:
1) What is the biggest challenge the new sheriff will face and how would you address it?
2) Detail any plans you have to eliminate or curtail particular programs to save money.
3) Please provide your thoughts on privatizing the jail as a means to save money.
4) Please provide your thoughts on consolidating functions such as in Jacksonville where the sheriff’s department and the police department were merged with charter government.
5) Please discuss your thoughts on cooperation with other law enforcement agencies and the US Attorneys Office in particular.
After a robust discussion of the issues, Charlie Blackwell asked and was granted permission to ask a question from the floor.  He asked both candidates to discuss training at the Sheriff’s Department and what, if anything, each would do to change the current training.  Both candidates felt that training should be increased.
The meeting ended with President Keith thanking all participating in the program and reminded all Rotarians to “Make Dreams Real.”

Rotary Wheels

Congrats to Grover Robinson for his leadership in finally moving all of the county’s 18 fire units under a single chief. Here’s a first step in gaining efficiencies through unification.
If you see Roger MacDonald limping, there’s good reason. Roger had a spill from his bicycle, resulting in a painful leg gash.
In October the Rooters will go country once more. Charlie Blackwell and Terry Scruggs are rounding up some unique tunes.
On September 27th Coy Irwin continued his help to Honor Flight, helping prepare the 30 guardians who will accompany 102 vets to Washington October 15th.   
Didjaknow that Carol Law is a director of the Impact 100 movement? On October 26th the group will be doling out over $500,000 to worthy projects.
Ed Nickinson is celebrating 20 years on the circuit court bench. He’s recognized as one of the state’s authorities on juvenile justice.
Earle Bowden has introduced a new book dealing with the Gulf Islands National Seashore.

Birthdays

Bo Carter, October 9, Atlanta, GA, 13 years
David Lamar, October 9, Pensacola, FL, 20 years
Marvin Kaiman, October 10, New York, NY, 37 years
Joe Rosenbaum, October 11, Pensacola, FL, 19 years
W. Bob Hart, October 11, Middlesboro, KY, 2 years
Dale Knee, October 13, Toledo, OH, 14 years

Last Meeting: September 23, 2008

Alison Rogers greeted Rotarians and guests at the door and ticket sales were handled by Malcom Williams and Joe Vonbondegun.

President Keith greeted all in attendance and led the club in the Four Way Test.

Nancy Maloy was called to the podium to lead in prayer and the pledge to our flag.

David Stafford then provided an update from the Program Committee.  Future programs will focus on 3 political races beginning with next week’s meeting when we will hear from candidates vying for Escambia County Sherriff.  On October 21 candidates for Mayor of Pensacola will make their case and on October 28 we will hear from candidates for Escambia County School Superintendent.  On November 14 Jerry Maygarden will present the results of the recent poll conducted on behalf of the Better Pensacola group.  Alan Bookman is also slated to make a presentation on the 6 amendments to the Florida Constitution that will appear on the November ballot. Election fever is building and our Program Committee is working hard to bring the latest information to the members of our club – hats off to David and the rest of the committee.

Jock Mobley made a pitch for the upcoming Mercedes-Benz Charity golf tournament which will benefit Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Northwest Florida.  Grand prize is a trip for 2 to Maui, Hawaii.  Registration forms are available at club meetings and through Centennial Motors.

Julie Tippens Parker announced that nominations are being sought for participants for the Rotary Exchange trip to Miilan, Italy.  Application deadline is October 11 and Rotarians and their family members are not eligible to participate.  Julie is looking for US citizens who reside in our Rotary District.

President Keith called Nancy Fetterman to the podium to introduce our newest member, Rear Admiral Paul Tobin.  Adm. Tobin had a distinguished Navy career and now is very active in Naval history activities.

A rumor that the Rotary Rooters would perform was confirmed when they stormed the stage and broke out into a fall harvest medley and closed with a rousing rendition of Baa Baa Black Sheep???

The raffle pot of $70 was claimed by Johnny Soule.

Nigel Allen was called to the podium for Sunshine. Nigel introduced 2 military guests and 3 visiting Rotarians.  Birthday cheers went out to 6 members with musical accompaniment.  Nigel closed with a bit of surprising technological information – wireless communication was invented in Alabama!

Jerry Maygarden introduced our program and presenter – John Appleyard and Emerald Coast Honor Flight.  The Honor Flight has its roots in the strong ties that bind Northwest Florida to our military efforts.  The Honor Flight is a program that identifies and transports local WW II veterans to Washington, DC to visit the WW II Memorial.  The WW II Memorial was establsihed about the same time as the Pensacola Veterans Memorial and was supported with appx $170 million in funding provided by various sources.  There are over 60 Honor Flight groups that have been established to date and the system has evolved to assist in the coordination of efforts associated with this cause.  The local effort was spearheaded by Congressman Jeff Miller who established a 12 person board to identify local veterans and then seek to obtain financial assistance.  Rotarians Jerry Maygarden, Mike Ferguson and Coy Irvin have been instrumental in this endeavor.  Dr. Irvin provides medical assistance to the flight participants.  The first flight carried 100 veterans and 30 guardians on the trip to Washington. The particvipants were treated to a grand arrival at the airport in DC and they then departed via bus to visit the WW II Memorial, the Vietnam Memorial, Lincoln Memorial and Iwo Jima Memorial.  The group was treated to a hero’s welcome upon returning to Pensacola.  The second Honor Flight is scheduled for October 15.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.

Rotary Wheels

The Florida Supreme Court’s decision on public project financing brought BIG smiles to Mort O’Sullivan and Miller Caldwell. The Maritime Park may now have a green light. And as the Park and Main Street Plant projects proceed, that makes Hank Bell smile, too. His Bell Steel’s in a strategic place.

Didjasee Randy Williams color photo in a newspaper ad? Randy is now an athlete once again!

Cal Moore’s about to become an active church elder once again, at Randy Jackson’s church.

Earl Hutto and John Appleyard are part of the filmed action as Sandy Cesaretti Ray’s WSRE TV completes its documentary film on Veterans Park. Airing date is to be November 11th.

The financial market ups and downs drew a number of members into interview positions. Bo Carter, Tommy Tait and Britt Landrum all were quoted. Bill Donahue’s firm was one of those merged. (Many years ago a good member and merchant named Bill White had a saying he used a lot. Bill said: “Always keep your inventory tied up in cash!”)

Bob Hart, Richard Sherrill and Bruce Partington are going to have a retiring Florida Supreme Court Justice (and relative of our Reed Bell and Brian Bell) as a new partner in October.

Birthdays

Ellis W. Bullock, III – October 1 – Huntsville, AL – 22 years
Peit Hudson – October 1- Long Beach, MS – 4 years
Bill Donahue – October 2 – New York, NY – 27 years
Roger Sherman – October 2 – Pensacola, FL – 13 years
Philip Partington – October 6 – Pensacola, FL – 4 years

Last Meeting: September 17, 2008

Ron Martin provided a warm greeting to everyone on this beautiful sunny day. President Bullock called the meeting to order and led us in the four-way test. Prayer and pledge was led by Bob Gaines.

President Bullock began announcements by welcoming back Ron Richards from his travels. Trey Manderson and Tim Kane sold raffle tickets, and the big winner of $68 was Lou Ray. Mr. Sunshine, Henry Roberts, introduced numerous guests and visitors. Birthday wishes were cheerfully sung to members accompanied by John Appleyard on piano.

Jim Stolhanske introduced today’s program on ECARE, and shared with the group that up to 3rd grade we learn to read, and that after 3rd grade we read to learn. He then introduced Clairen Reece, Executive Director of ECARE. Clairen kicked off her presentation by giving a prize to the first person who could name the first book they read. George Biggs was the winner of a sparkly rhinestone brooch that spells out “READ”.

In an effort to create a better, more literate Escambia County, a group of community leaders, businesses and citizens have created Every Child a Reader in Escambia (ECARE). Our Rotary club was a primary early sponsor of this initiative. The goal of this organization, in collaboration with its early literacy partners, is to educate citizens about the importance of early literacy and to provide the necessary tools, partners and resources for its success.

ECARE’s vision is to create a literate workforce that contributes to economic growth and development in Escambia County. The primary goal is to ensure that all children entering kindergarten in Escambia County in 2011 be ready for kindergarten as measured by state standards. The second goal is that all third graders in Escambia County test as proficient on the reading portion of the third grade FCAT in 2014.

Clairen listed some of the current programs that literacy partners have in place and/or are developing. They include:

• Wee Read - which our club has sponsored for many years
• Born Learning – United Way’s program and media campaign that provides parent education materials to help parents and other caregivers provide quality early learning opportunities for young children. The “Ages and Stages” series covers development milestones for children from zero to five years of age.
• Dolly Partridge’s Imagination Library – The Early Learning Coalition is coordinating this effort. Imagination Library will mail a free book every month to households with children 5 years old and younger as long as the local group raises the money to pay for postage ($30 per year per each).
• Margaret Stopp is leading a new initiative to provide backpacks full of books to children.  On November 1st, Barnes & Noble will donate a portion of their proceeds to this cause.
• Other programs supporting this cause include a UWF tutoring initiative, Appleseeds (a reward and recognition event), and Diapers to Doors.

ECARE is very serious about making a difference, and will be measuring and monitoring results of these programs.

President Bullock adjourned the meeting with Make Dreams Real!

Rotary Wheels

For fun, ask Gerry Hoewing what Coach Bear Bryant and Quarterback Roger Staubach have to do with the Naval Aviation Museum. Gerry’s going big into area football with his new promotional game.
Coy Irwin’s done fine work in helping make wise selections for the second Honor Flight. More than 400 vets applied to go…making sure the number who would have difficulty getting about remained reasonable. Coy will again make the trip (October 15th) as medical volunteer.
Hear tell that our great secretary Krista now has a “night job,” working with good member Mort O’Sullivan’s firm.
Didjaknow that Blaise Adams is a member of the Downtown Improvement Board?
Perhaps belatedly, hats off to J. J. Coonan for the fine job he does, week after week, having military guests at club meetings.

Birthdays

Trey Manderson, Sept 23, Kosciusko, MS, less than 1 year  
Diane Appleyard, Sept 23, Chester, PA, 13 years
Maria Goldberg, Sept 23, Hopewell, VA, 7 years
Buddy Rees, Sept 25, Cincinnati, OH, 10 years
Will Merrill, Sept 28, Boston, MA, 40 years
Innes Richards, Sept 29, Washington, DC, 10 years

Extra

MEMBERSHIP PROPOSALS:

For the past year, Christina Littlejohn has served as Executive Director of Pensacola Symphony Orchestra. Prior to this, she worked for The Cleveland Orchestra as Director of Residencies launching The Cleveland’s Miami residency program. In her fifteen years in the orchestra industry, Christina Littlejohn has served a variety of roles, including as Executive Director of Mobile Symphony, Alabama.  Before Mobile, she worked for Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, interned for Atlanta Symphony, Lincoln Center, and Kennedy Center. She is a graduate of Furman University (B.A.) and University of Cincinnati (MBA and MA) and enjoys playing her cello when time allows.

Martin Small is the Market President for Wachovia, providing executive leadership to the Pensacola and Gulf Breeze markets.  He is a graduate of the University of South Carolina with a Bachelor’s degre in Business.  His community involvment includes Junior Achievement, United Way and Youth Sports.  He is married to Page and has two children, Katherine 18 and DeAnn 4.
Rear Admiral Paul Edward Tobin, Jr., graduated from the Naval Academy in 1963.  After retiring from active duty in 1998, he became the Executive Director of the Educational Foundation of the Armed Forces Communications Electronics Association.  In July 2005, he assumed duties as the 11th Director of Naval History.  His personal awards include:  Two Distinguished Service Medal’s, four Legions of Merit, the Bronze Star, the Meritorious Service Medal and three Navy Commendation Medals.

UPCOMING GREETERS AND RAFFLE SALES:

September 23:
Greeters:  Ed Ranelli and Alision Rogers
Raffle Sales:  Joe Von Bodungen and Malcolm Williams
September 30:
Greeters:  Frances Yeo and Nora Bailey
Raffle Sales:  David Bear and Shawn Brantley

Last Meeting: October 9, 2008

Rotarians were greeted by Gary Bembry.
President Keith called the meeting to order and welcomed all attending. President Keith recognized Cliff Payne who just returned from a Rotary International partnership regarding the wheelchair program focused in South and Central America. Everyone applauded his efforts in San Jose, Costa Rico in helping bring wheelchairs to those in need.
Donna Jacobi representing the Cantonment club announced an upcoming fundraiser to be held at the Roy Hyatt Environmental Center. President Keith shared a letter from one of the student scholarship recipients, Kevin Anderson. Kevin extended his appreciation to the club for the assistance he has received. President Keith recognized Jim Stolhanske for his participation and leadership in Literacy Day. Another announcement included that the lunch prices at New World Landing were increasing.
R. P. “Roger” Doyle gave the prayer and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Charlie Blackwell was Sunshine and introduced visitors and guests. He along with John Appleyard led the Birthday song for those having birthdays. Earl Hutto won the drawing.
Our guest speaker, Holly Benson, was introduced by Jerry Maygarden. Holly, Secretary of the Agency Health Care Administration, said she is chiefly responsible for the Medicaid Program. She talked about the tough economic times and increasing healthcare costs and said that the numbers are rising for people who need healthcare and do not have insurance. She said that one of her efforts is to include healthcare information in a way so that the consumer has more control. She asked, “If you had cancer, where would you go”? She gave a central way to gather this information on the internet by going to floridahealthcare.gov website. She told us that there is valuable information about performance of hospitals, nursing homes, etc., so the consumer could make more informed choices. Holly said that Governor Crist has reported that there are about 3.6 million uninsured Floridians. Holly complimented the club and Pensacola by saying she was really pleased being back in Pensacola. Her talk was followed by Q & A.
President Keith thanked all who had been on the program.

Rotary Wheels

Pete Doyle’s joined Jack Gray in board service for Catholic Charities.  Ric Nickelsen’s also on that board.
Ted Brown says that his venture in remaking the Beck’s Lake area is coming along just fine.
When we sang HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Mac Miller on September 2nd, he wasn’t with us…but we should note that at 94, Mac’s our most senior member.
Newly returned member Bill Stafford may be seen on stage with the Rooters this month.

Birthdays

Kramer Litvak, September 16, Pensacola, FL, 7 years
Betty Gail Peters, September 17, Knoxville, TN, 11 years
Jack Nobles, September 19, Pensacola, FL, 21 years
William Dickerson, September 19, Pensacola, FL, 14 years
Clarry Ellis, September 19, Fort Belvor, VA, less than 1 year
Susan O’Connor, September 21, Quincy, IL, 6 years
Joe Von Bodungen, September 22, New Orleans, LA, 8 years

Extra

MEMBERSHIP PROPOSALS:

For the past year, Christina Littlejohn has served as Executive Director of Pensacola Symphony Orchestra. Prior to this, she worked for The Cleveland Orchestra as Director of Residencies launching The Cleveland’s Miami residency program. In her fifteen years in the orchestra industry, Christina Littlejohn has served a variety of roles, including as Executive Director of Mobile Symphony, Alabama.  Before Mobile, she worked for Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, interned for Atlanta Symphony, Lincoln Center, and Kennedy Center. She is a graduate of Furman University (B.A.) and University of Cincinnati (MBA and MA) and enjoys playing her cello when time allows.
Martin Small is the Market President for Wachovia, providing executive leadership to the Pensacola and Gulf Breeze markets.  He is a graduate of the University of South Carolina with a Bachelor’s degre in Business.  His community involvment includes Junior Achievement, United Way and Youth Sports.  He is married to Page and has two children, Katherine 18 and DeAnn 4.
Rear Admiral Paul Edward Tobin, Jr., graduated from the Naval Academy in 1963.  After retiring from active duty in 1998, he became the Executive Director of the Educational Foundation of the Armed Forces Communications Electronics Association.  In July 2005, he assumed duties as the 11th Director of Naval History.  His personal awards include:  Two Distinguished Service Medal’s, four Legions of Merit, the Bronze Star, the Meritorious Service Medal and three Navy Commendation Medals.

UPCOMING GREETERS AND RAFFLE SALES:

September 23:
Greeters:  Ed Ranelli and Alision Rogers
Raffle Sales:  Joe Von Bodungen and Malcolm Williams
September 30:
Greeters:  Frances Yeo and Nora Bailey
Raffle Sales:  David Bear and Shawn Brantley

Last Meeting: September 2, 2008

The skies outside were cloudy, but inside Rotarians, guests and visiting Rotarians were met with a warm smile by Claudia Simmons and the pleasant tones of the piano courtesy of John Appleyard.
President Keith Bullock called the meeting to order and led the group in the Four Way Test.  Shawn Brantley then led the group in the Rotary prayer and in the pledge to our flag.
President Keith reminded all in attendance of the Rotary Community Initiatives and the need for all Rotarians to turn in their pledge cards so that our group can meet its commitment.  The $67 raffle was won (once again, now for a total of five times) by Nathan Kahn.
Robert Mills brought sunshine to the group introducing guests and visiting Rotarians.  There were no visiting military.  His humorous stories reminded us to be very careful when siphoning gas from an RV.
With the accompaniment of John Appleyard, the group then sang “Happy Birthday” to all those celebrating birthdays.
Present Keith then turned the meeting over to Assistant District Governor Ed Boyer who introduced our speaker, District Governor Ron Richards.  Assistant District Governor Ed Boyer also presented a Presidential Citation to our past President, Jerry Maygarden, in honor of his achievements and efforts as President.  Then he noted that District Governor Ron Richards is a graduate of the University of Alabama and a rabid Tide fan.  After a tour with the Coast Guard, and in addition to other career activities, Ron now is a financial planner.  District Governor Ron is a past Commodore of the Pensacola Yacht Club and is actively involved with Big Brothers and Big Sisters and has been a foster parent to one of his “littles.”  His spouse, Innes, also is a Rotarian and a member of our Club.  District Governor Ron has 15 years of perfect attendance and is a Paul Harris Fellow.
District Governor Ron Richards took the podium and honored past District Governors Roger MacDonald and John Tice who are active members of our Club.  This led to an inspiring discussion of the contributions which Rotarians have made throughout the world.  Over 1.2 million Rotarians are working to “Make Dreams Real.”  This includes reducing child mortality, family illiteracy and poverty.
Every day approximately 30,000 children under the age of 5 die throughout the world because of contaminated food and water and related diseases.  This can be prevented merely by providing clean food and water to these children.  Over 1.1 billion people in this world lack access to clean water, something which Americans take for granted.
Furthermore, studies have shown that child mortality falls significantly if the mother has basic literacy skills.  In addition, reducing poverty and increasing the incomes of those in extreme poverty (subsisting on $1 to $2 a day) which is suffered by over 1.3 billion people in the world, will save the lives of children.  Dealing with poverty and illiteracy also will reduce the horrifying growth in the sale of young girls in the international sex trade.  This is the fastest growing crime in the world, and over 2 million girls each year are forced against their will into this illicit and disgusting activity.
District Governor Ron focused on club responsibilities and individual responsibilities.  He encouraged each club to work towards a 10% increase in membership.  He reaffirmed the opportunities for each and every person in each club by the contribution of their time, their skills or their money.  He reminded each of us that a minimal contribution of only $100 can provide artificial limbs for individuals in Thailand or Haiti, a sewing machine business for a poverty-stricken woman in Mexico, or inoculations for over 166 children in developing countries.
District Governor Ron Richards emphasized the efficiency of the Rotary Foundation in using funds to bring relief to a troubled world.  He noted that the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation recently had made a challenge contribution of $100 million to the Rotary Foundation.  This is dependent upon the Rotary Foundation obtaining matching funds within the next three years.  The goal is to totally eradicate polio in our world.  District Governor Ron noted that the only things we keep in this world are the things which we give away.
Before he left the podium, District Governor Ron Richards honored Andrea Farage, Ed Wonders and Frances Yeo, three leaders who are our most recent Paul Harris Fellows.  They received emblems and certificates commemorating their achievements.
President Keith thanked District Governor Ron Richards, Assistant District Governor Ed Boyer and all others involved in the Program, and provided a two sapphire pin to District Governor Ron to commemorate his achievements as a Paul Harris Fellow.  President Keith reminded all of us to “Make Dreams Real.” 
The meeting adjourned at approximately 1:05 p.m.

Rotary Wheels

Hear tell that Teri Levin has left our fold and moved to Five Flags.
Phil and Bruce Partington are justly proud of the recent honor bestowed on their father. .The Opera Guild has named its renovated downtown center for Don, who has been a singer and all-around supporter of the local opera from the beginning more than twenty years ago.
Jean Norman continues to pound out informative newspaper columns about the many United Way programs. With so many leaders now focusing on the area’s poverty needs, her work becomes increasingly important.
Ron and Innes Richards have completed their forty-one district governors visits, and have many tales to tell.
David Stafford’s staff tried…but when only 25% of the electorate turns out to vote, it shows there’s work to do. Perhaps that’s a future goal for Rotary.
When a memorial service was held for former district governor, Charlie Schuster, several of his Gulf Breeze Club members sang a Rooter’s-like tribute. Our own Rooters may put such appearances in their program.

Birthdays

Ellis W. Bullock, 9/11, Birmingham, AL, 32 years

Earle Bowden, 9/12, Altha, FL, 42 years

Chris Pate, 9/14, Macon, GA, 28 years

Extra

MEMBERSHIP PROPOSAL

Martin Small is the Market President for Wachovia, providing executive leadership to the Pensacola and Gulf Breeze markets.  He is a graduate of the University of South Carolina with a Bachelor’s degre in Business.  His community involvment includes Junior Achievement, United Way and Youth Sports.  He is married to Page and has two children, Katherine 18 and DeAnn 4.
Rear Admiral Paul Edward Tobin, Jr., graduated from the Naval Academy in 1963.  After retiring from active duty in 1998, he became the Executive Director of the Educational Foundation of the Armed Forces Communications Electronics Association.  In July 2005, he assumed duties as the 11th Director of Naval History.  His personal awards include:  Two Distinguished Service Medal’s, four Legions of Merit, the Bronze Star, the Meritorious Service Medal and three Navy Commendation Medals.

GREETERS AND RAFFLE SALES FOR SEPTEMBER

September 9th:
Greeters:  Gary Bembry and Miller Caldwell
Raffle Sales:  Donald Haferkamp and Art Hufford
September 16:
Greeters:  Ron Jackson and Ron Martin
Raffle Sales:  Jeff Powell
September 23:
Greeters:  Ed Ranelli and Alision Rogers
Raffle Sales:  Joe Von Bodungen and Malcolm Williams
September 30:
Greeters:  Frances Yeo and Nora Bailey
Raffle Sales:  David Bear and Shawn Brantley

ANNOUNCEMENT

Naturalization Ceremony:  If you would like to volunteer to represent the Rotary Club of Pensacola at one of the future naturalization ceremonies, please email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) and let us know.  The ceremonies will take place at the U.S. District Courthouse, 1 N. Palafox Street, 5th floor courtroom on September 19 and November 21 at 10 a.m.

Last Meeting: August 26, 2008

The noon meeting was held on a beautiful sunshine day with attendees being greeted by Lee Little.  Jake Renfroe and Bob Rogers sold raffle tickets.  Martin Harwood started the meeting with the Rotary Prayer and the pledge.
President Keith made several announcements before the $66 raffle drawing which was won by Tommy Tait.  Hugh Hamilton brought us sunshine and introduced our military guest representing the USMC and USN.  Other guest of members, and visiting Rotarians were introduced followed by birthday greetings.
Ellis Bullock introduced our good friend and annual speaker, Dan Shugart, sports director for Wear TV-3.  This was Dan’s 20th appearance to review the upcoming college football season:

• Georgia-tough schedule and will have problems with Florida
• Florida-Can you spell Tim Tebow?  Very good team this year.
• Alabama-Can you say “Roll Tide”?  Young team with QB concerns.
• Auburn-Should win SE Conference-West.
• FSU-Looks good in QB area and coaching staff.  Could be Bowden’s last season.
• Troy State-yes Earl, good team but rough schedule.
• Tenn-sadly Betty Gail, their QB is new in a very tough division and they have discipline issues.

Make Dreams Real!

Meeting adjourned.

Rotary Wheels

Bill ’n Nancy Maloy have a new assignment. The pair will be part of an “English as a second language program” at Trinity Episcopal Church.
Didja notice that Ken Woolf’s daughter is the new assistant city attorney?
Bo Carter is keeping the same VP title, but his bank is being merged into a Panhandle giant. One sad note, however; The Bank of Pensacola name will disappear…again. The first BOP closed 170 years ago.
Henry Cary had his 91st birthday last week…but he had to blow out the candles from a hospital bed.
Earle Bowden has a new printing of his Gulf Islands: The Sands of All Time. And John Appleyard is approaching the printer with three new titles, a History of Brewton…a corporate account of the Emerald Coast Utilities Authority…and the ninth edition of his mystery stories.
Mike Ferguson is delighting some e-mail pals with unique world information he gathers in his army post.
Coy Irwin’s been busy reviewing applications for the second Honor Flight group. Coy does the medical checks.
Hear tell that Cindy Nelson will retire shortly from her Girl Scouts position.

Birthdays

Mac Miller – September 4 – Baltimore, MD – 48 years

Mike Ferguson – September 4 – Waycross, GA – 18 years

Jake Renfroe – September 5 – Pensacola, FL – 1 year

Charles Beall – September 5 – Dublin, GA – 12 years

John Tice – September 6 – Tazewell, VA – 24 years

Jim Flournoy – September 6 – Memphis, TN – 17 years

Last Meeting: August 19, 2008

Rotary President Keith Bullock called the meeting to order. He called on Cindy Nelson to give the prayer and lead the pledge. President Keith asked Milton Usury to come forward and introduce our newest member. Milton introduced Dr. Ed Meadows, President of Pensacola Junior College, to our club. Dr. Meadows has about 17 years past membership in other Rotary Clubs. He is a native of Mississippi and most recently was President of Lurleen B. Wallace Campuses before coming to Pensacola. He will join Debbie Ford on the Scholarship Committee.
Charles Beall, Jr. answered the call as Sunshine and brightened the day for a few short minutes… He introduced military visitors, visiting Rotarians and guests. He also named those with birthdays. Club members sang Happy Birthday.
President Keith introduced the Rotary Rooters for a special performance of summer songs. Many commented that these summer serenades might be their best efforts so far.
Christina Littlejohn won the raffle.
David Stafford, Program Chairman, introduced Congressman Jeff Miller as our guest speaker. Congress Miller has represented the 1st Congressional District since 2001. He said that while the Congress was on vacation that he was making visits to his constituency and civic clubs. He said that they major issues of concern are: the energy plan, the cost of gas, protecting our military mission in the Gulf of Mexico, a drilling bill, Iraq, the Russian conflict and the elections. He talked about his most recent trip to Iraq. Also, mentioned that he thought the area would benefit from the Northup Grumman potential in Baldwin County. He said he believed Northup would win out over Boeing.
Everyone applauded the Congressman and he was presented the Rotary Cup. President Keith thanked Leslie Halsall for meeting and greeting. Jeff Lewis was thanked for outstanding ticket sales at the door.
President Keith adjourned the meeting and once again thanked Congressman Miller.
He parted with Make Dreams Real.

Rotary Wheels

Headlines really don’t tell us much; perhaps we should have Al Coby and Miller Caldwell give us a five minute report on what’s really happening towards the Maritime Park.
Sorry to report that Sally Fox’s husband’s required some delicate surgery out-of-town…thus Sally’s absences. Oh…and word is that Sally’s trying to form a corps of Lady Rooters!
With food prices zooming, it’s good to listen to Susan O’Conner tell how the McDonald’s stores are coming on with more penny-pinching specials.
Jack Williams and his adventurous family are celebrating the 41st anniversary of Seville Quarter. Remember when the first Warehouse opened, with New Orleans music and sawdust on the floor?
David Stafford’s early voting surely works well in most precincts, ’cause there are almost no people to vote for.
Charlie Wiggins has passed another marker and now is a certified trial attorney.

Birthdays

Rex McKinney:  8/29 Austin, TX 13 years
Dante Kahn:  8/29 Charleston, SC 32 years
Kathy Horton-Brown:  8/30 Miami, FL 17 years
Milton Usry: 8/31 Mineola, TX 21 years
Sandra Smith:  9/1 Asheville, NC 7 years
Bob Benz:  9/1 Philadelphia, PA 35 years

Last Meeting: August 12, 2008

Mark Harden greeted all Rotarians, visitors and guests with a warm greeting and firm handshake.  Brian Bell sold raffle tickets.

President Keith Bullock called the meeting to order and led the group in the Four Way Test, followed by John Trawick who led us in the prayer and the pledge.

President Keith then called upon Robert Mills to introduce our Exchange Student, Fredric, who arrived from Amsterdam on Monday.

Sally Fox then came forward to present sunshine.  Sally then introduced military guests and visiting Rotarians and a number of guests.  The birthday celebration and singing was handled joyfully with our piano accompaniment again provided by John Appleyard.

President Keith then gave the floor to Collier Merrill who introduced our speaker, Frm. Congressman Joe Scarborough and current host of MSNBC’s “Morning Joe”.  Joe was first elected to Congress in 1994 where he served until 2001.  Joe hosted the nightly television show “Scarborough Country” until he was selected to host a morning show on that network in the time slot previously held by Don Imus.

Joe spoke to the club for nearly 30 minutes on the upcoming general elections and about the upcoming democratic and republican conventions.  He noted that the Sen. McCain is considering Tom Ridge (former Director of Homeland Security), Sen. Joseph Lieberman and Frmr. Gov. Mitt Romney as possible Vice Presidential running mates.  Sen. Obama is considering a number of Vice Presidential candidates including Virginia Gov. Tim Cain.  Joe noted that the Obama campaign seems to be suffering from “over confidence” while the McCain campaign has suffered from the candidate attacking his own ads.  Joe’s discussion also involved some “friendly ribbing” of Downtown Rotary’s own David Stafford current Escambia County Supervisor of Elections and former Chief of Staff for the former congressman.  Stay tuned for the excitement of the upcoming conventions!

President Keith thanked all participating in the program and reminded all Rotarians to “Make Dreams Real.”

Rotary Wheels

Didja notice Britt Landrum’s steady hand last week, as federal interest rates remained steady?

Kenny Woolf, Bill Dollarhide, and Nathan Kahn have interesting views on the make over of Palafox Street to two-way.  A few others, like Gene Elebash, remember when it was two-way before. 

Ted and Kathy Brown surely have BIG plans for the family waterfront in Bayou Chico.  Who knows? The Brown Hilton may rise there soon!

Maria Goldberg’s chairperson for our Christmas gala.  The Rooters are practicing already.

Dale Jordan’s continuing his periodic role as a preacher.  His recent “sermon” was a review of religions in the middle east.

Wouldn’t it be nice to see Mac Miller, Bill Baxter, Earle Bowden, Frank Creel, Ben Early and Hal Minnich all at the same table one day?  We’ve missed ‘em all.       

Birthdays

Ken Woolf – August 19 – Scarsdale, NY – 38 years

Roger Enzor – August 22 – Crestview, FL – 17 years

Bobby Kahn – August 22 – Pensacola, FL – 60 years

Hill Turner – August 24 – Pensacola, FL – 25 years

John Hinman – August 25 – Sunnyside, MS – 42 years

Last Meeting: August 5, 2008

The Rotary Club of Pensacola held its regular meeting on August 5, 2008 under bright summer skies.
President Keith called the meeting to order and Randy Butler led the club in prayer and the pledge to our flag.

President Keith reminded the club that our Sunshine Committee was founded in 1934 by Dixie Beggs.  Ron Martin was then called to the podium to present the club with banners that he obtained from Rotary clubs in Paris, France.  There was some mention of reimbursement for the expense of the banners (the French do not believe in giving the flags away!) but there was difficulty computing the currency exchange.

President Keith reminded the club that our exchange student will be arriving at Pensacola Regional Airport on August 11 and 11:20 am.  Members are invited to join the Mills and Sallis families greet Fredric as he begins his journey into American culture.

John Shaffer then introduced our newest member, Scott Sallis.  Scott is a local architect and is a member of Gulf Breeze United Methodist Church and active in Big Brothers – Big Sisters.  He is also active in the Rotary Group Study Exchange. Welcome to the club Scott!

The raffle pot was a whopping $67 and was carted off by Mort O’Sullivan.  Alan Bookman then stepped to the podium for Sunshine – Is this what Dixie Beggs had in mind when he formed the committee?  Alan regaled the group with one very tasteless joke then introduced 1 military guest, 2 guests of Rotarians and
3 visiting Rotarians.  Alan then redeemed himself with a good joke about Aunt Karen and her drinking.

John Shaffer introduced our program – Judge Ross Goodman speaking on behalf of Big Brothers – Big Sisters.  Ross and his wife have been involved with BB/BS of Northwest Florida (the local agency covers the panhandle from Pensacola to Panama City) for several years and Ross remains in contact with his first “little” who is now enjoying a successful career thanks to the mentoring that he obtained in his formative years.  BB/BS was originally formed by a clerk working in a juvenile court in New York who sought volunteers to serve as mentors.  The organization now has offices in over 1,000 US cities and many locations overseas as well.  The local chapter was started by a Naval officer with a goal of reaching 100 children per year. That goal has grown to a target of 1,000 per year. Judge Goodman stated that he found a new appreciation for the services provided by BB/BS upon becoming a circuit judge in the juvenile system and encountering children from broken homes who have too much time on
their hands due to lack of participation in extra-curricular activities.  Judge Goodman encouraged participation that requires a small time commitment of about 1 hour per week.

There being no further business the meeting was adjourned.

Rotary Wheels

Jack Williams had almost 150 at his 50th birthday bash, where he was duly roasted.
If Ron Labrato misses a meeting or two, it’s understandable. The announcement by Gulf Power that rates will go up has generated many questions.
When the Independent News had a special section of “Those Who Inspire Us,” four of the fifteen persons noted were our members: John Clark, Andy Poppel, Roger MacDonald and John Appleyard. The reasons why were widely divergent!
Maybe you saw the news photos or drove by as the long-time Blood Bank building on 9th Avenue fell to the wrecker’s ball. That structure was the project of our member Dr. W. C. Payne, Sr., forty years ago. Right now the bank’s celebrating its 60th birthday, as Betty Miller and Rodger Doyle will tell you.

Birthdays

Charles Gund – August 12 – Pensacola, FL – 6 years

Lee Little – August 12 – Baltimore, MD – 1 year

Scott Paul – August 14 – Fort Huachuca, AZ, 2 year

Henry Cary – August 16 – Pensacola, FL – 63 years

Randy Butler – August 16 – Century, FL – 6 years

Don Rushing – August 16 – St. Petersburg, FL – 31 years

Roger Brown – August 17 – Schenectady, NY – 17 years

Last Meeting: July 29, 2008

Britt Landrum and Jack Klocke greeted all Rotarians, visitors and guests.
President Keith called the meeting to order.  He remembered the good work Jim Flournoy did by leading the team with collecting monies for the new bloodmobile being used daily at Northwest Florida Blood Services. He welcomed Dr. Cliff Payne who joined us for the meeting.  President Keith also reminded everyone to get your pledge cards in for all the good we can do. Also, President Keith reminded all that homes are needed for the exchange students. Scott Grissett is our Exchange Student Volunteer Mentor and is doing a great job helping mentor these exchange students.
R.P. Doyle and David Stafford introduced new member, Honorable Judge Bill Stafford, to the membership. R.P. gave a remembrance of the many organizations and legal positions held by Judge Stafford. David proudly welcomed his father into the membership.
Henry Roberts offered the prayer and led the Pledge of Allegiance. R.P. Doyle was sunshine and welcomed guests and visiting Rotarians. John Appleyard added to birthdays for the week with grand music. Roger Enzor won the drawing for the day. Scott Paul handled the winning tickets sold.
Program Chairman David Stafford asked Skip Furlong to introduce our guest speaker, Capt. and Commanding Officer of Corry Station Connie Frizzell. Capt. Frizzell informed us about the happenings at Corry Station and the type of training that takes place. She said she is the Commanding Officer of the U.S. Navy Center for Information Dominance which is the new name for Corry Station. She explained and showed a PowerPoint of the types of communication and information technologies training taking place. She said her challenge is that of surface, subsurface, air and expeditionary warfare communications with the mission being cryptology training for peace, prevention, deterrence, crisis, war and transition to peace. She said there are about 1500 students in training on a daily basis. She concluded her program by showing a video from You Tube entitled “Shift Happens”. It showed how quickly we are evolving in a world of changing technologies and communications.
President Keith thanked all participating in the program and reminded all Rotarians to “Make Dreams Real.”

Rotary Wheels

Betty Roberts, Rodger Doyle and their blood bank team have a new wrinkle…giving gas cards or sub sandwiches when you vein drain.
Tom Birdwell’s set to cool off a bit, heading for Canada’s Lake Louise for a spell.
Nancy Fetterman’s been named co-chair for the local John McCain Presidential campaign. And, Jack Nobles is starting to hustle in his campaign, for he has two doorbell-ringin’ opponents.
We haven’t seen much of Earle Bowden in recent months, but his July 26th news column on the changing state of newspapers was a gem. Times are achangin’...and one can also ask Ellis Bullock III about how news readers are affecting ad placements.
Congrats to Sam Goldenberg! The Kresge Foundation’s $300,000 matching grant should go a long way in financing the Hospice addition named for Mrs. Sam.
For Naval Aviation Museum goers there’ll soon be something new. J. J. Coonan and Gerry Hoewing have a new on-site game that will tie the museum to one of the South’s popular Fall football customs.

Bobby Switzer’s brother made property available for construction of the latest three Habitat houses in Pensacola.

Birthdays

Pete Doyle – August 7 – Erie, PA – 10 years

Mark Harden – August 7 – Pensacola, FL – 3 years

Bob Rogers – August 8 – Pensacola, FL – 16 years

Janet Pilcher – August 8 – Pensacola, FL – 7 years

Tom Birdwell – August 11 – Louisville, KY – 32 years

Extra

MEMBERSHIP PROPOSALS:

Reverend Thomas K. Frizzell, Jr. is currently the Priest at Saint John’s Episcopal Church.  He was ordained into the ministry in 1995.  He served in the US Navy and is currently pursuing his Doctorate from the Lutheran Theological Seminary.  He was born in Kansas City, Missouri. He is an active member of the Pensacola chapter of the Naval Academy Alumni Association.  He is married to US Navy Captain Connie Frizzell. They have two daughters, Caitlin and Olivia.
Scott Sallis is an architect.  With 17 years of experience, he now owns his own firm.  He participated in Rotary’s 2007 GSE program.  He received his Bachelor of Architecture degree from the University of Arkansas.  He has a position on the Board of Trustees with Gulf Breeze United Methodist Church and is a member of the city of Pensacola’s Planning Board.
Dr. Charles “Ed” Meadows is the 6th and current President of Pensacola Junior College.  He has held positions with the Northwest Mississippi Community College, Shelby State Community College, Ayers State Technical College and Laureen B. Wallace Community College.  His Master of Art and Ed.D. degree are from Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana.  He and his wife, Kitty, have two sons, Daniel and Andrew.  He has been a Rotarian since 1996. 
ANNOUNCEMENT:

Northwest Florida Blood Services is celebrating their 60th birthday of being the community blood center since 1948 for the month of August.

Everyone is invited to come to any of the centers each Wednesday of the Month, 1999 East Nine Mile Road and 2209 North Ninth Avenue from 9am to 5pm to enjoy birthday cake and festivities. Have your cake and donate, too.

Last Meeting: July 22, 2008

Gerry Hoewing happily greeted fellow Rotarians and guests on this hot and muggy summer day.

President Keith commenced the meeting with a ringing of the bell and we were off. Randy Jackson, also our raffle collector, led the prayer and pledge. Ray Jones introduced our newest member – Greg Goosman. Greg is a media director at WUWF, has a radio show, is very active as a youth baseball coach with the Optimists, and most notably … loves to do Sunshine (really?). Welcome aboard Greg!
President Keith asked Grover Robinson to shed a little Sunshine and Grover didn’t disappoint—mostly due to the fact that he didn’t attempt any jokes. Still, Grover was especially efficient at introducing our military guests, birthdays, visitors and guests.
Carol Powell introduced our program: Rotary Youth Exchange. Carol mentioned that over 7000 students ages 15-19 participate in the program annually and it is one of the success stories of Rotary. Madeline Reese, daughter of Claire and Buddy Rees, attended Germany this past summer as part of the program.  Madeline was accompanied by the daughter of the family she stayed with, Kathi Goebal. Madeline wowed the crowd with a slide show of the areas in Germany and Austria that she visited including many castles, churches and other buildings some dating back to 100 AD. Kathi, who will be here for a few more weeks, briefly talked about the places and events she has enjoyed like the Blue Angel air show at the beach and a trip to the Big Sleezy – New Orleans. President Keith thanked the girls and Carol Powell and Julie Tippins Parker for their efforts supporting the program. We adjorned shortly before one o’clock.

Rotary Wheels

Roger Vinson has another “position,” as president of the national camellia growers organization. Roger is a real pro with the fine flowers.
In case you missed the promos Dale Knee and Nigel Allen are hosting a Night of Comedy as a benefit for Hospice, August 2nd.
The overall economic woes, and particularly those of the state, have many of our good members and their not-for-profit organizations with furrowed brows. State cuts may affect John Clark, Walter Strong, Leigh Broxton and Frances Yeo and their organizations. Jean Norman and other leaders are hoping that individual donors will respond.
Come Rooters Time next month the songsters will be singing a song about our city written over 80 years ago by the man who was our club secretary, Perry Reed.
Dr. Jimmy Jones was just named a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives, a national professional society for healthcare leaders.  The group only has 7500 fellows nationwide.

Birthdays

Ron Richards – July 31 – Birmingham, AL – 13 years

Brian Bell – July 31 – Pensacola, FL – 1 year

John Phelps – August 1 – Pensacola, FL – 44 years

Jack Williams – August 2 – Norfolk, VA – 17 years

Tim Kane – August 2 – Pensacola, FL – 13 years

Cindy Nelson – August 4 – Pasadena, CA – 8 years

Extra

MEMBERSHIP PROPOSALS:

William Stafford is a United States District Judge, Northern District of Florida Senior Judge.  He served as a US Attorney, Northern District of Florida, 1969-1975.  He was in the US Navy and attended Temple University.  He was Past President of the Rotary Club of Tallahassee and Tallahassee YMCA.  He is currently on the Board of Directors at Sacred Heart Hospital.  He is married to Nancy and has three sons:  William III, Donald and David, who is our Supervisor of Elections and a member of our Rotary.  He is also a former member of the Pensacola Rotary Club.
Reverend Thomas K. Frizzell, Jr. is currently the Priest at Saint John’s Episcopal Church.  He was ordained into the ministry in 1995.  He served in the US Navy and is currently pursuing his Doctorate from the Lutheran Theological Seminary.  He was born in Kansas City, Missouri. He is an active member of the Pensacola chapter of the Naval Academy Alumni Association.  He is married to US Navy Captain Connie Frizzell. They have two daughters, Caitlin and Olivia.
Scott Sallis is an architect.  With 17 years of experience, he now owns his own firm.  He participated in Rotary’s 2007 GSE program.  He received his Bachelor of Architecture degree from the University of Arkansas.  He has a position on the Board of Trustees with Gulf Breeze United Methodist Church and is a member of the city of Pensacola’s Planning Board.
Dr. Charles “Ed” Meadows is the 6th and current President of Pensacola Junior College.  He has held positions with the Northwest Mississippi Community College, Shelby State Community College, Ayers State Technical College and Laureen B. Wallace Community College.  His Master of Art and Ed.D. degree are from Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana.  He and his wife, Kitty, have two sons, Daniel and Andrew.  He has been a Rotarian since 1996. 

Last Meeting: July 15, 2008

Scott Paul greeted all Rotarians, visitors and guests with a warm greeting and firm handshake.
President Keith Bullock called the meeting to order and led the group in the Four Way Test, followed by Earl Hutto who led us in the prayer and the pledge.
Lou and Sandy Ray recently flew to Bonaire in the Caribbean and, while there, visited the local Rotary Club.  The Bonaire Rotary Club has been in place for 27 years, and although it has only 27 members, last year it raised approximately $268,000 for various projects.
President Keith then noted that our Student Exchange Program is moving along very well, but we still have a need for one family to assist with student housing.  He congratulated member Robert Mills and visitor Scott Sallis, who are providing housing.
The raffle drawing of $55 was awarded to Britt Landrum.  Richard Sherrill then came forward to present sunshine.  Richard introduced our military guests, two Ensigns of the United States Navy.  He then introduced the one visiting Rotarian and a number of guests.  The birthday celebration and singing was handled skillfully even without our piano accompaniment.
Present Keith then gave the floor to John Shaffer who introduced our speaker, Professor Rick Harper of the Haas Center at the University of West Florida.  Professor Harper has been at UWF since 1989 after he earned his Ph.D. in economics from Duke University.  Professor Harper focuses on the effect of governmental policy on the economic environment in our country.
Our speaker noted that the current economic situation in our country results in interesting times for economists.  The Federal Reserve Bank and other agencies are engaged in unprecedented activities in an attempt to positively influence the markets and economic activity.
In Florida, the most recent budget (2008 – 2009) of $66 billion was $6 billion less than the state’s budget for 2007 – 2008.  Although this is a significant shrinkage, just the amount of the shrinkage ($6 billion) is greater than the general revenue in the budgets of 22 other states.  Nevertheless, the current economic situation finds most consumers with a greater debt load and facing increasing costs for fuel, groceries and other necessities.
Florida, in particular, faces unique challenges.  The state’s growth, especially in the state’s revenue and budget, have primarily resulted from growth in population.  At this time, growth is less than 3%.  Florida now may face a more severe downturn than other states and areas.
The weakness of the U.S. dollar in comparison to foreign currencies also is causing some problems but also presents opportunities.  The risk is that foreign investors may hesitate buying U.S. savings bonds and Treasury bills.  The benefit of a weaker dollar is that international investors find that American firms and businesses are bargains.
Our speaker predicted that slow growth probably would continue in the State of Florida until 2010.  The best hope for wage earners in our state is through continuing to improve quality and productivity, primarily through education.
After Professor Harper finished his prepared remarks, he opened the floor for numerous questions.  Professor Harper confirmed that foreign investment in both financial and non-financial sectors probably would continue and even accelerate.
Although homeowners losing their residences through foreclosure are causing significant concerns in our country (with homeownership reduced from approximately 69% of the population to 67% within the last two years), this is having some positive effect on the rental market in other areas.
Growth in our economy is directly tied to population growth, according to our speaker.  Consequently, a wise immigration policy is crucial for the continuing economic growth in our country.
In Florida, growth and the recovery of state revenues must be tied to insurance reform, especially hurricane/windstorm insurance reform, and property tax reform.
In response to an inquiry regarding the Airbus tanker deal and the rebid of the contract, Professor Harper believes that either manufacturer of the tankers (whether Airbus or Boeing) will need capability for manufacturing in the U.S. rather than Europe in order to produce these tankers for the U.S. military.  Military spending has continued to grow, including procurement spending which has tremendously benefited Eglin Air Force Base and the surrounding areas.
Professor Harper presented a compelling portrait of the current economic situation in the U.S. with a focus on Florida.  John Shaffer thanked our speaker and presented him with our Club’s cup.
President Keith thanked all participating in the program and reminded all Rotarians to “Make Dreams Real.”

Rotary Wheels

Cal Moore and Miller Caldwell may be getting close to “go ahead” on the status of de Luna.
Ellis Bullock III and Gerry Hoewing have sizeable smiles after finding that Naval Aviation Museum visits are up almost ten percent while general tourism is down.
Carl Mertins had a mid-July scenic train trip through parts of Canada, beginning at the historic point where two Great Lakes join.
Jack Fleming’s hopeful that the city’s 450th anniversary may bring a revival of his super musical Seaplane. Jack spent July 4th in Hammondsport, New York, home of Glenn Curtiss, where they celebrated the centennial of the aircraft pioneer’s work.
Sherry Hartnett’s on the speaker’s stump detailing the proposed Baptist Hospital plans.
Bob Hart has celebrated arrival of a grandson…with the numeral IV after his name.
Congrats to Coy Irwin, who has added a business administration advanced degree from Auburn.

Birthdays

Vince Currie – July 22 – Pensacola, FL – 19 years

Paul Young – July 22 – Panama City, Fl - 19 years

Will Hart – July 25 – Pensacola, FL – 1 year

Blaise Adams – July 26 – Macon, GA – 17 years

Extra

MEMBERSHIP PROPOSAL:

William Stafford is a United States District Judge, Northern District of Florida Senior Judge.  He served as a US Attorney, Northern District of Florida, 1969-1975.  He was in the US Navy and attended Temple University.  He was Past President of the Rotary Club of Tallahassee and Tallahassee YMCA.  He is currently on the Board of Directors at Sacred Heart Hospital.  He is married to Nancy and has three sons:  William III, Donald and David, who is our Supervisor of Elections and a member of our Rotary.  He is also a former member of the Pensacola Rotary Club.

Last Meeting: July 8, 2008

Our new District 6940 Governor, Ron Richards greeted everyone as Nigel Allen and a very young assistant sold raffle tickets.  Newly inducted President, Keith Bullock, introduced Leonard Swartz who opened our meeting with the prayer and pledge.
Jean Norman came to the podium to present Paul Harris pins for continued giving to Innes Richards and Roger MacDonald.  Then, with much anticipation, The Rotary Rooters sang selected patriotic songs off of their “Greatest Hits-Volume II” CD.
President Keith presented outgoing President Jerry Maygarden with a plaque for his outstanding leadership.  District Governor, P.C. Wu recognized former District 6940 Governors and past Club Presidents for assisting him with their prior service.  He then swore in our new District Governor, club member Ron Richards.  Ron recognized club members who will assist him in his role as District Governor.  They are John Tice, Tim Kane, Jerry Maygarden, Kathy Horton-Brown, Jim Stolhanske, Frances Yeo, and of course, Innes Richards.
The raffle drawing resulted in Ed Ranelli winning the $80 pot.  Charlie Blackwell brought us sunshine introducing our military guest representing the USMC and USAF.  Other guest and visiting members were also introduced followed by birthday song to club members.
President Keith introduced us to the new Rotary year, “Make Dreams Real”.  Our clubs role for the next year will follow past program areas of health, hunger and literacy.  These programs will be funded by some $28,000 club dollars.  Keith also reminded everyone of EREY-Every Rotarian Every Year to donate $100 minimum to Rotary International Foundation.  Donation cards have been sent out to all members. Our past giving of $6,000 generated over $30,000 in matching grants.  Also, the Student Exchange and Polio Plus programs continue and need our help.  A review of the 2008-09 Board Members, Committees and Committee Chairpersons was given.
“Make Dreams Real”
Meeting Adjourned

Rotary Wheels

President Ellis’s daughter’s been on a graduate study in Uganda (which for those who haven’t followed changes in the World Atlas is in AFRICA!).
Didja see where Sandy Jennings has a plan to reuse landfills, to save land and money?
With the economy something less than robust both Bob Rogers and Walter Strong and their organizations are seeking mid-year financial contributions to better serve the growing number of homeless. Ditto for Manna Food Bank.
Jeff Lewis has just returned from a tour as a church volunteer doing remedial work in Tennessee.
When you watch the July 15th All Star Game play this little puzzle: When was the first game played? In what ballpark? Who originated the idea? And who won the game?
With daily economic news a bit dark have pity on the six club members who are financial advisors!
The Baars family sent a beautiful letter of thanks to the club for the memorial adopted on long-time member Theo.
Bobby Kahn will be at the Life Care Center on Olive Road, in rehab, for some time. He’s doing fine.
Bill Donahue’s son, Chris, has been named Swimmer of the Year by the News-Journal. He was a winner in the All Sports Awards, and has signed to swim for Western Kentucky University.

Birthdays

Terry Scruggs – July 15 – Atmore, AL -  16 years

Coy Irvin – July 19 – Canton, MS – 2 year

Charlie Blackwell – July 20 – Covington County, AL – 18 years

Extra

MEMBERSHIP PROPOSAL:

A native of Puerto Rico, Greg Guzman is currently Director of Outreach for WUWF-FM (88.1) for primary and secondary schools, bringing news, music and fun to students.  He is also a radio show host for WUWF, with his “Blues Plate Special” program.  Greg has been active with youth, serving as a baseball coach for North Pensacola Optimist.  He is a native Spanish speaker and a musician—if inducted, could he be the youngest member of the Rooters?  Greg is also a former Rotarian (2000-2003) with Suburban West.

Last Meeting: July 1, 2008

Rotary President Keith Bullock called the meeting to order and introduced this year’s theme, Make Dreams Real. Members were greeted by Phil Phillips and Brian Bell. Jack Nobles offered the prayer and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Bob Hart was Sunshine. Bob introduced military guests, visitors and visiting Rotarians along with moments of Sunshine. Membership sang Happy Birthday to those who had birthdays this week.
President Keith called on Grover Robinson, III to introduce the guest speaker, Robert McLaughlin, our new County Administrator. Grover’s introduction included Mr. McLaughlin’s past work experience which showed his transition into the new position.
Mr. McLaughlin began by announcing his vision to make Escambia County the “best county in the State of Florida”. He explained steps of what areas were being focused to make this happen, i.e. customer service, accountability and to restore public trust and confidence for all.  He furthered explained that it was mandatory that all employees would attend customer service training and through fiscal accountability he would both maintain and enhance infrastructure. Mr. McLaughlin has engaged the principles of the Governor’s Sterling Award/Malcolm Baldridge Award‘s standard as the models to follow. Specifics mentioned were: reorganization of 16 departments into 6 bureaus; budget reduction including putting key people in the right place; engaging Quint Studer’s Leadership Evaluation Model as a performance measurer and strengthening communications. Mr. McLaughlin closed by fielding questions.
President Keith thanked Mr. McLaughlin and those members who greeted and helped make today’s program possible. In closing, President Keith stated this year’s theme, Make Dreams Real.

Rotary Wheels

There may be new members in the offing.  Evon Emerson squired Wachovia Bank head Martin Small at a recent session, and there have been others.
Tom Owens and his son have joined the ranks of Chicago Cubs fans.  Their recent trip to the Windy City including seeing games between Cubs and White Sox.
Didja see the big spread the local press gave to Dale Knee?  Quite a tale.
John Clark’s Meals on Wheels Program is facing volunteer problems now that gasoline prices have soared.  The program aids more than 400 people a day.
President Ellis may not have been in the kitchen but his first meeting provided some of the best – and varied – food the club’s enjoyed in quite awhile.
Bill Dollarhide has signed on for a two year term as Symphony President…and Teri Levin has been made an orchestra board member.
When the Reunion Band played July 3rd in Seville Square, Ed Nickinson was there, strumming his guitar and belting out mod tunes.
Betty Roberts did an excellent job in her TV pitch for blood.  The bank and TV-3 co-sponsored a drive day.
Word is that Art Hufford and Bobby Kahn went through their surgeries well.
With the Baptist Health Care – West Florida Hospital deal now public, the club roster of interested members who are involved: Al Stubblefield, Jerry Maygarden, Sherry Hartnett, Gary Embry, Pam Bilbrey and Paul Young.  Others are current and past board members of the two hospitals.
Congrats to Al Coby on his selection as interim city manager.

Birthdays

Tony Neuner – July 8 – Baton Rouge, LA – 6 years

Carl Mertins Jr. – July 10 – Pensacola, FL – 35 years

Jean Norman – July 12 – Raleigh, NC –17 years

Extra

MEMBERSHIP PROPOSAL:

A native of Puerto Rico, Greg Guzman is currently Director of Outreach for WUWF-FM (88.1) for primary and secondary schools, bringing news, music and fun to students.  He is also a radio show host for WUWF, with his “Blues Plate Special” program.  Greg has been active with youth, serving as a baseball coach for North Pensacola Optimist.  He is a native Spanish speaker and a musician—if inducted, could he be the youngest member of the Rooters?  Greg is also a former Rotarian (2000-2003) with Suburban West.
 
ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Northwest Florida Blood Services is offering Save Our Summer College Scholarships for students who set up new blood drives by August 15. There will be six $1000 scholarships and six $500 scholarships awarded to students who meet the criteria. Check http://www.nfbcblood.org for details or call Alison Mooneyham Lacour at 473-3853.

Last Meeting: May 20, 2008

Brian Masterson and Martin Harwood greeted arrivals while Rex McKinney sold raffle
tickets to anyone feeling lucky this beautiful spring day.  President Jerry called the meeting to order announcing next weeks program was military awareness and many military guest were expected.  We need to sit with arrivals and make them feel at home.

Betty Gail Peters gave the prayer and pledge.  President Jerry announced the Annual Club meeting will be June 10th and will be held at Pensacola Country Club.  Bill Maloy introduced our newest Paul Harris Fellow, his wife, Nancy.  Congratulations! 

The $55 raffle was won (again) by Lew Doman, which lead us to Sunshine given by Hugh Hamilton.  Our military guest from the USAF and USN were introduced followed by visitors, and visiting Rotarians.  Sunshine ended with Happy Birthday.

Paul Young introduced Florida Legislative Representative, Clay Ford of Gulf Breeze, also a fellow Rotarian.  Clay is serving his second year in Tallahassee.  This year’s challenge is dealing with taxes and a $72 billion dollar revenue, which has declined due to reduction in sales tax.  Also, almost 4 million residents do not have health care and cost is a big problem.  New plans are being set up with private carriers to try and address affordability by giving more coverage selections.  Clay also co-sponsored the bill for funding treatment and research of autism.

The lower budget caused reduce funding for education.  But it was only by 2% which he felt was fair due to the 40% increase in funding over the past eight years.  Healthcare, energy and insurance are still big topics that will be addressed in the future.

Meeting adjourned.

Minutes from the 5/27/08 Meeting

Alan Moore and Ron Richards readily greeted Rotarian’s at the door in preparation for another glorious meal and friendly conversation.

President Jerry, with a month to go before turning over the helm, kicked off the meeting bringing Nancy Malloy to deliver the prayer and pledge. Jerry then asked JJ Coonan to the podium to introduce our newest Paul Harris fellow – Jane Ferguson. Jane’s husband Mike graciously made the donation on behalf of his wife for her selfless dedication as a military spouse. Of particular note was her dedication as a volunteer in Japan assisting in a leprosy clinic. General Mike read letters from his children attesting to the spirit and dedication of their mother. Congratulations went out to Jane, as the fifth spouse to be recognized in this manner.

Lucky Betty Roberts won the raffle which then meant Sunshine was next. Robert Mills was Mr. Sunshine today and told a wonderful bodily function joke—if you missed it consider yourself lucky.

The Program: As it is Military Appreciation Month, Rear Admiral Gary Jones USN, Commander, Naval Education and Training Command and Captain Pete Frano USN, Commanding Officer NAS Pensacola were introduced by Vice Admiral Skip Furlong, USN Ret. Admiral Jones briefly spoke to the global war on terrorism and the courage and dedication of those in uniform waging the battle daily across the world. This generation has answered the call – just like the generations did in both world wars, Korea, Vietnam, and the Cold War Like those previous generations, the spouses and families of the servicemen and women are the “power behind the power” and directly responsible for the successes our military have enjoyed through the years. He also thanked Rotarians for the Rotary value system and its’ overall support for the military.

Captain Frano is wrapping up his three years as Commanding Officer of NAS Pensacola. He mentioned that the support NAS receives from the City of Pensacola and its citizens is the “perfect mix” of the two groups. Often cities like San Diego and Norfolk take the Navy for granted due to size of both. But with Pensacola and NAS, the size is just right and a great fit. Pete then introduced some of the CO’s of the tenant commands onboard NAS, including: Aviation Schools Command, Center for Information Dominance, Naval Technical Training Center, and MATSG 21’s Executive Officer (XO). He then introduced LT Dye and HMC Sims who have recently returned from Iraq and Afghanistan. The lieutenant was assigned to an Army unit in Iraq in order to eliminate roadside IED’s using electronic warfare and other methods. We now have a 92% IED discovery rate before detonation, up from 50% just a few years ago. Great success! The chief was assigned with a Special Forces battalion in Afghanistan and worked in close contact with the Afgan army to identify hostile targets. He thanked his family especially in light of the fact that he will most likely return to Iraq in the not too distant future. All were thanked with a standing ovation and the meeting was adjourned.

Rotary Wheels

Soon after his role in presenting Rotary Scholarships at our May 13th meeting Jim Martin made a similar delivery, noting outstanding PJC students at the annual college leadership dinner. In that same meeting Grover Robinson was installed as president of the college Foundation for 2008-10, and Donnie McMahon was heralded for his work on the school’s behalf.
Al Stubblefield’s rightly proud of his daughter, who was a Merit Scholar finalist.
Sorry to report that Pat Groner (who was our member for over 57 years before his transfer to North Pensacola), is having some physical problems.
Brooks Champlin apparently hit a financial jackpot; he sodded his whole front yard!
Morris Eaddy continues to shine as an art teacher, and in further works of his own. (Morris will have a key role in the Rooters’ June 10th program which will be a salute to country music.)
Gerry Hoewing was all smiles last week when the Naval Aviation Museum hosted the Children’s Chorus programs…including a reception in Cubic Bay restaurant.
Britt Landrum says his role as a member of the federal financial team grows more interesting all the time, what with so many major problems.
Poor Collier Merrill is obviously in for many meetings as work proceeds to choose an interim and then a new president for UWF. Collier’s done yeoman service in his roles there.

Jack Gray, who gives generously of his time for clerical additions to local programs, may have set a record last week. TWICE in one week the meeting chairman forgot to call on Father Gray for the invocation!
Charles Wiggins may soon have to call his dad MR. MAYOR!
Tom Owens has a new way of bonding with this young son. This year will mark their second trip to Chicago to visit Wrigley Field and see the Cubs.
Apparently it’s official. Marvin Kaiman and his bride have closed on their Gainesville house and will be moving there in June. They’ll be missed.
Credit Mike Ferguson with using some of the information he gains in his ongoing military advisor role. Regularly he’s sending lengthy e-mail messages to a host of friends, detailing things that are happening in the war zones. The reports are far more detailed than one sees in the press.
With the Hurricane Season starting June 1st, Linda Biller, Leigh Broxton and their many Red Cross volunteers are getting ready should emergency measures be needed.
Ellis Bullock III’s son is forging a career in TV production on the west coast.
Word on the street is that Jerry Maygarden may be reducing his time at Baptist Health Care Foundation and focusing more on his Tallahassee enterprise.
Jeff Lewis is wondering who his new boss may be. The current public defender, Jack Behr is just the third man to hold this post, which dates back almost forty years. Behr is stepping down, and the ballot box will determine the next defender.

Birthdays

Walter Strong – May 27 – Havre de Grace, MD – 1year

Gene Schmidt – May 27 – West Palm Beach, FL – 19 years

Rodger Doyle – May 28 – Pensacola, FL – 16 years

Martin Harwood – June 1 – New Orleans, LA – 5 years

Phil Phillips – June 1 – Orlando, FL – 3 years

Jim Martin – June 2 – Suffern, NY – 4 years

Charlie Wiggins – June 6 – Great Lakes, IL – 6 years

Bob Hart Jr. – June 7 – Pensacola, FL – 34 years

Blair Crooke - June 7 – Tallahassee, FL – 14 years

Last Meeting: May 13, 2008

Greeters Andrea Farage and Scott Barrow welcomed everyone.
Our President, Jerry Maygarden, thanked Ed Ranelli and Ted Kircharr for coordinating the Business Ethics Award Luncheon last week. There were about 800 jars of peanut butter that Sam Goldenberg was proud to get for the Manna Food Bank. Thanks for everyone’s participation. Jerry reminded all about the May 27 Military Awareness Day and said a special Paul Harris award would be presented. Fred Braden led the pledge and gave the prayer. Charles Beall led the Sunshine of the meeting and saluted those who had birthdays. Jerry asked everyone to take five minutes to nominate someone for the Grover and Sandra Robinson awards. John Cavanaugh sold tickets.

The Rotary Scholarship Program was introduced by Debbie Ford.  Jim Martin took the lead in telling members about the high school scholarship awards and introducing each of this year’s winners. Jim noted that he was very impressed by the students, as was the committee, as they read through the applications. Scholarships of $1000 were awarded to: Ashley Collins of Gulf Breeze High, William Thomas of Gulf Breeze High, Jamesha Bryan of Pensacola High, Joshua Cloud of Alethia, Terrell Harrison of Washington High, Wau Winnon of Pensacola High, Mercedes Cruz of Escambia High. Many parents attended. Jim thanked the Rotary members for their generosity in making this a success for students.

Jerry thanked all and adjourned the meeting.

Rotary Wheels

Ask Nathan Kahn about his experience in Israel! He learned a lot about international affairs.
Ed Nickinson’s son is closing out his cross-country career at FSU in grand style.
Hats off to Grover and Jill Robinson for their generous new backing for Frances Yeo’s Junior Achievement program.
Last weekend was a big one for Billy Elebash, whose son Patrick was wed in a posh seaside ceremony.
Mark 10:00 a.m. on your calendar for May 24th. Jack Fleming and Ted Nickinson and their committee will be staging a ceremony in St. John’s Cemetery to recognize community leaders of the late 19th century who are buried there. Jack Gray and John Appleyard are on the program, and the several Rooters present will warble some Gay Nineties harmonies.
Walter Strong and his staff had been celebrating National Salvation Army Week with a variety of events.
When the city held a brainstorming session recently to aid in future planning there were several Rotarians among those involved, including Jimmy Jones, John Tice, Mort O’Sullivan, Collier Merrill, Jean Norman, and John Cavanaugh.
Railroad buff Carl Mertins and his wife plan to ride the rails on a scenic run in Canada shortly.

Birthdays

Morris Marx – May 21 – New Orleans, LA – 9 years

John Clark – May 21 – Lewiston, Maine – 1 year

Don Scott – May 23 – Brewton, AL – 12 years

Bill McEachern – May 23 – Pensacola, FL 21 years

Art Hufford – May 23 – Pensacola, FL – 8 years

Jules Kariher – May 24 – Winston-Salem, NC – 1 year

Extra

MEMBERSHIP PROPOSAL:

Mary Randolph (Sally) Cary attended Catholic Schools here in Pensacola.  Colleges she attended were St. Mary’s Dominican in New Orleans and The University of West Florida.
Her business experience began at the Citizens and Peoples National Bank and continued in Orlando with thirty years of diversified banking software technology.  Also during this time she developed a real interest in the work of The Immune Deficiency Foundation.
Upon returning to Pensacola, she joined Covenant Hospice’s Milton Branch as a Volunteer Services Manager.

Last Meeting: April 29, 2008

Charles Gund and Clark Merritt welcomed Rotarians as Susan O’Connor and William Noonan sold raffle tickets. 

President Jerry welcomed all with the Four Way Test followed by Shawn Brantley with the Prayer and Pledge.

Announcements:
-Sam Goldenberg reports that Manna Food Bank is in desperate need of donations.  All Rotarians attending the May 5th Ethics in Business Awards Luncheon are asked to bring a jar of peanut butter for Manna.  Manna also needs canned goods and powdered milk.
-Call for participants in the Rotary Youth Exchange for the State of Florida.  Need three host families for one month each.
-The June 22 Family of Rotary event has been cancelled.  It will be moved to the fall.
-The Annual Meeting is June 10th at the Pensacola Country Club.
-A committee has been approved to review nominations for the Sandra and Grover Robinson award, Jim Stolhanske is chairing.
-The Honor Flight left Wednesday, April 30, 2008, with 100 Veterans flying to see the WWII Memorial in DC.
- Visiting Rotarians from France were introduced.

The Raffle went off without a hitch and $70 was awarded to the lucky winner.

Vince Currie deftly spread a little Sunshine by introducing guests of Rotarians, Visiting Rotarians and Happy Birthday You All.  Jokes were in fact very funny; ask Vince to tell you how you keep from getting worms. 

David Stafford introduced the program, Secretary of State Kurt Browning. Secretary Browning is the 29th Secretary of State.  He has been on the job for 16 months.  In those 16 months he has been dealing with budget issues, eight special elections, numerous special sessions and lawsuits. The Secretary of State has no direct authority over local Supervisor of Elections; they work together. The Department of State is the umbrella department over the: Division of Elections, Division of Corporations, Division of Libraries, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Division of Historical Resources.

Not well known facts about the Department of State:
-Florida is the largest corporate filer in the nation.
-The Department generates over $225 million in general revenue each year.
-Responsible for funding museums and other cultural amenities.  The ROI is $8 on every $1 the Department invests in cultural activities.
-Responsible for land and underwater archeology sites.  Recently has transferred all the historical buildings of Pensacola to the City of Pensacola.

They are currently transforming 15 counties for touch screen to optical scan ballots for elections. It will cost $30 million to make those changes and by the 2010 elections no touch screens will remain.

David Stafford thanked Secretary Browning and gave him some of our “fine china”.

President Jerry adjourned the meeting with “Rotary Shares”.

Rotary Wheels

Last week local home builders concluded their annual Parade of Homes. How many remember that Handsell Butts was one of the originators of the plan locally, and was for many years a participant?
As Wheels began turning this week, Coy Irwin was airborne as the medical authority on the Honor Flight to Washington. Not an easy job, when several of the 100 vets were wheelchair bound, and others had oxygen bottles and other health aids.
Tom Owens was one of the earth turners when ground was broken at PJC for the Chadbourne Library.
Didjaknow that Tommy Tait’s to become a grandfather next month?
If we had only gotten John Cavenaugh into the Rooters he probably would find this area totally magnetic!

Oh…and the Rooters are working on a very special music classic…to be presented soon…complete with string bass, musical saw, guitar and harmonica.
David Bear and his family foundation are among the sponsors for the May 16th Children’s Chorus reception, being hosted at Gerry Hoewing’s Naval Aviation Museum.
Didjasee Teri Levin’s modeling pose in a local magazine? Too bad the copy didn’t note her as a Rotarian; our image would have soared.
Collier Merrill’s found a new way to sell hard goods! His condo auction made national news headlines.
Susan O’Connor and husband John (the Ethics Award winner) hosted a party where PJC supporters said farewell to PJC outgoing president Delaino. Meanwhile, Jim Martin will be one of the hosts at a May 15th welcoming gathering for the new college head, Dr. Ed Meadows. (Pres. Jerry’s already trying to get
Dr. Meadows as a member of our club.)
Marvin Kaiman and wife have bought a Gainesville condo; they’ll be leaving soon.
W. Bob Hart’s Wal-Mart store provided free processing for film shot by WWII vets in Washington. Paul Young says he wouldn’t have missed his role as a “Guardian” that day; and Brooks Champlin’s wife was a special Guardian. One of her charges was her 91-year-old dad.

Birthdays

John Soule – May 6 – Pensacola, FL - 23 years

Keith Bullock – May 10 – Pensacola, FL – 19 years

Carol Powell – May 11 – Boston, MA – 16 years

Earl Hutto – May 12 – Dale County, AL – 13 years

Jack Gray – May 12 – Logansport, IN – 11 years

Gene Elebash – May 13 – Pensacola, FL – 61 years

Evon Emerson – May 14 – Houston, MS – 6 years

John Monroe – May 15 – Pensacola, FL – 20 years

Ed Nickinson III – May 17 – Jacksonville, FL – 30 years

David Bear – May 17 – Pensacola, FL – 7 years

Hank Bell – May 19 – Pensacola, FL – 24 years

Extra

MEMBERSHIP PROPOSAL:

Mary Randolph (Sally) Cary attended Catholic Schools here in Pensacola.  Colleges she attended were St. Mary’s Dominican in New Orleans and The University of West Florida.
Her business experience began at the Citizens and Peoples National Bank and continued in Orlando with thirty years of diversified banking software technology.  Also during this time she developed a real interest in the work of The Immune Deficiency Foundation.
Upon returning to Pensacola, she joined Covenant Hospice’s Milton Branch as a Volunteer Services Manager.

Last Meeting: April 22, 2008

Debbie Ford gave us a big greeting at the door. Ed Wonders gave us a good sale on tickets.
President Maygarden called the meeting to order. Rodger Doyle led us with the prayer and pledge of allegiance. Our president reminded the group of the May Ethics in Business Awards Banquet and thanked Ed Ranelli for his help in coordinating this event.
See Jerry for more information on Rotary International event in Destin. An additional drawing was held for two sets of tickets from our guest speaker today to the Five Flags Speedway. Drawing winners were Lou and Mike Doman.
A special Paul Harris was awarded to Betty Nickinson for her many community service involvements and years of volunteering. Her accomplishments are numerous and include: Junior League President, the Joan Gonzalez Award and volunteering with United Way, Florida Division of Family Services, Pensacola Chamber of Commerce, Council of Aging, Trinity Presbyterian Church, United Ministries, Meals on Wheels and Pensacola Junior College Foundation to name but a few. Betty is the wife of Rotarian Edward “Ted” Nickinson.
Sunshine Alan Bookman welcomed visitors, military guests and visiting Rotarians. He recognized those having birthdays Also, he honored Sam Goldenberg for the Pensacola News Journal Community Spotlight article being the recipient of the 2008 Volunteer of the Year for Hospice Awards.
Paul Young introduced the guest speaker, Tim Bryant, Owner of Five Flags Speedway and also Dave Pavlock, the voice of racing in Pensacola. Tim told us of the history of the raceway and how it had been established nearly 50 years ago. He told about some of the most successful racing events including the popular Snowball Derby Race and Blizzard Series. He showed racing slides and left us with the message that racing is for sons and Dads, daughters and Dads and for the entire family.
President Jerry adjourned the meeting by thanking the guests and all who helped make Rotary a good meeting day. He closed with Rotary Shares.

Rotary Wheels

Headlines of $2 million dredging in Bayou Chico show results of Ted Brown’s efforts there.
Word is that Gerry Hoewing and J. J. Coonan will soon break ground on the additions to the Naval Aviation Museum, and that the Space Academy Program may have its first students shortly.
Jim Flournoy’s company is at work on some huge projects, including a new pro-football stadium in Dallas.
Commissioner Grover Robinson’s newsletters to constituents get bigger and better. Lots of people and organizations prepare such letters, but Grover’s stand out for detail and interest.
At the recent annual meeting of the American Hospital Association Al Stubblefield was given a special award for his work with that organization.
The announcement that Sam & Joyce Goldenberg had been honored for their Hospice volunteer work was only the tip of the iceberg. Together, the pair has helped pave the way for development of that worthy service…including physical facilities…for years and years.

Birthdays

Sam Goldenberg – April 30 – Pensacola, FL 20 years

Bobby Behr – April 30 – Pensacola, FL – 1 year

Andy Popple – April 30 – Fordyce, Arizona – 6 years

Carol Law – May 1 – New York, NY – 17 years

Jim Dickerson – May 4 – Columbia, TN – 14 years

Extra

Congratulations go out to our very own Al Stubblefield, president and CEO of Baptist Health Care who was recently presented with the national Award of Honor during the American Hospital Association’s (AHA) annual meeting in Washington, DC. The AHA Award of Honor is reserved for those who have made truly outstanding contributions through an initiative to improve the health status of individuals, communities or the nation.

Last Meeting: April 15, 2008

Bill Dollarhide and Janet Pilcher cheerfully greeted wary taxpaying Rotarian’s on this bright and sunny but tad cool day. And what luck, it was Italian day as far as lunch – cannelloni for all my friends!
President Jerry, his tenure soon coming to an end, kicked off the meeting immediately forgetting the Four Way Test (told you he was getting short) but he remembered before inviting district “The Gov” P.C. Wu to the podium. PC was onboard today to thank a large number of our Club members who dedicated time and effort during the most recent RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards). Each member received a recognition certificate on genuine parchment, a hardy “PC” handshake, and a glorious round of applause from those in the crowd that felt guilty for not doing more to help.
Former Club President Jean Norman recognized our newest Paul Harris Fellow for his contribution to Rotary – Dr. John C. Cavanaugh. Congratulations.
Raffle? What Raffle? (If you didn’t attend we had our own little version of “Rafflegate” so it was cancelled halfway through). Sunshine came fast and furious provided courtesy of Henry Roberts who skillfully executed his duties.
Debbie Ford introduced the program: University of West Florida update provided by the newest Paul Harris Fellow—Dr. John C. Cavanaugh. A few initiatives were discussed – UWF’s STEM program increasing math, science and technology awareness in our school system and the merging of technology and history in support of Pensacola’s 450th anniversary next year.
John started by discussing the new “Green” building under construction and opening in 2010. This new campus building will generate its own power through solar panels and have a virtual reality capability for use at the undergraduate level – one of only 100 schools in the country doing this for undergrads. The STEM program is UWF’s attempt to get teachers and middle and high school students more interested and proficient in math and science in order for them to be ready when they get to the college level. One of the biggest issues facing technology companies in the United States is the lack of qualified talent. It is hoped that the STEM program will get students to embrace the subjects for the future.
The Doctor went on to discuss history and specifically “Next Exit Technology”. “Next Exit” was built using a grant from the State and will integrate multimedia and history for those that are traveling the interstate system. For example, traveling down I-10 close to Pensacola someone could pull up a multimedia history lesson on their mobile phone or GPS system based on what exit is coming up. He then showed a demo of a short Pensacola history lesson.
Tidbit: UWF enrollment for fall 2007 – 10,400 and that will hold for next year.
Respectfully submitted, Clark Merritt.

Rotary Wheels

John Cavanaugh & Company are basking in the results following another successful Festival On The Green at UWF.
Give Wright Moulton credit for being one of those planning the legal profession’s long string of successful LAW DAY programs.
A special cheer for Nancy Maloy, who not only maintains her own attendance but also helps Bill be part of our regular meetings.
Sandy Ray and her WSRE-TV crew will be part of the Honor Flight action on April 30th, filming away to prepare a documentary on what befell 100 local WWII veterans on their visit to the memorial in Washington. Credit Pres Jerry for his fund raising role in this…and for his second assignment as a “guardian” on the trip.
Kramer Litvak and Ric Nickelsen have been named as board members for Hospice, and Nigel Allen vocal skills were evident once again as he performed as a choir member in a religious special at Randy Jackson’s church.

Birthdays

Eric Nickelsen – April 23 – Edmonton, Alberta Canada – 29 years

Jim Stolhanske – April 26 – Brainerd, MN – 20 years

Frances Yeo – April 26 – Norfolk, VA – 8 years

Buster Dulion – April 26 – Birmingham, AL – 24 years

Madison Currin – April 27 – Charleston, SC – less than 1 year

Extra

The Ethics in Business Award will be presented on Monday, May 5, 2008 at our Combined Rotary Clubs of Pensacola luncheon at New World Landing.

Last Meeting: April 8, 2008

Rotarians and guests were warmly greeted by Maria Goldberg, Ray Jones and Scott Grissom.
President Jerry called the meeting to order and led all in the 4-Way Test.  Bob Gaines then led all in attendance in the prayer and the pledge.
President Jerry congratulated several members with perfect attendance, totaling over 230 years of perfect attendance.  President Jerry reminded all that the Ethics & Business Award will occur on Monday, May 5, 2008, and that there is no meeting on Tuesday, May 6, 2008, for our Club.  The annual meeting will be conducted on Tuesday, June 10, 2008, and there will be no luncheon meeting that day.  There will be a night meeting.  The Rotary family event will be conducted on Sunday, June 22, 2008, at the Pensacola Yacht Club.
President Jerry thanked Ed Wonders for his involvement with RYLA (the Rotary Youth Leadership Award).  Ed Wonders spoke briefly about the RYLA event, which was conducted this year at Adventures Unlimited.  Sixty-seven students were in attendance and thoroughly enjoyed the event.
The lottery of $74 was awarded to Susan O’Connor.
Grover Robinson led the group in sunshine, first by introducing and thanking our military guests (one from the Air Force and one from the Navy).  He then introduced visiting Rotarians and guests and led the group in a hearty rendition of “Happy Birthday.”
President Jerry then introduced Ellis Bullock who introduced our speaker, Steve Sorrell, the Executive Director of the ECUA (Emerald Coast Utilities Authority).  Steve Sorrell is an engineer who had years of experience in Ohio before coming to Pensacola in 2002 to work with the ECUA.  He oversees the ECUA operations (with 550 employees), which deals with wastewater and solid wastes.
Steve Sorrell had warm words of thanks for Board member, Lois Benson, who had the foresight to first promote moving the treatment facility even before Hurricane Ivan prompted others to come on board.  He also thanked his strong staff and other members of the Board who do an excellent job for our community.
Steve Sorrell then presented a PowerPoint presentation about ECUA and the construction phase of the new treatment facility.  The new treatment facility will no longer rely on ultraviolet treatment but will use chlorine disinfection.  This will allow 100% of the treated wastewater to be reused by Gulf Power and perhaps by others.  Furthermore, the solids which remain after treatment can be used as AA fertilizer for agricultural purposes.
The new facility also will have additional room for storage such that “reject” storage can be recirculated and retreated.  This is not possible now with the existing facility.
Furthermore, the new facility will use aerobic processes to treat the wastewater which will limit and significantly reduce any odor, which has been a continuing problem at the existing facility.  The new facility will be constructed in such a manner to allow for almost unlimited expansion in the future.  This will allow development in the northern part of Escambia County, as well as components of Santa Rosa County (if they should so choose) to utilize the new facility.
The new facility will be using AWT (Advanced Wastewater Treatment).  This treatment results in water which is actually pure enough to drink.  We learned that the drinking water in and around the Atlanta area has as its source wastewater which has been treated through the AWT process.
The cost of the new facility and demolition of the old facility will total at least $302 million (plus or minus 10%), as determined in 2007.  Certain components of construction costs could cause the ultimate cost to be greater than the estimated $302 million.  The cost of the new plant itself will be approximately $100 million.
The 25 miles of pipe and the pumping stations also will cost approximately $100 million. Because of the corrosive nature of the product to be pumped, significant amounts of stainless steel and concrete will be utilized.  Metals other than stainless steel do not handle this type of corrosion well.  In order to cut down on costs, the ECUA will construct its own temporary concrete plant to manufacture concrete for use in the construction process.
The timetable for the new facility is well underway.  The design will be completed within the next two to three weeks, and permits are expected to be finalized within that same time period.  Contracts are already out for bid, and the bidding process will be underway during the next few months.  ECUA expects to spend between $10 to $15 million each month over the next several years for the construction of the new facility.
An additional significant cost of the new facility will be easement acquisition.  Much of the pipeline will run along areas already subject to Gulf Power easements.  The property is not owned by Gulf Power, however, so ECUA will need to obtain the right to place pipelines in this area using the power of eminent domain if necessary.
Groundbreaking will occur on April 11, 2008.  The groundbreaking will not be at the location of the new facility, which is still undeveloped, but will be at the current facility.  Construction is expected to last until spring of 2010.  The start-up phase of the new facility will occur by June of 2010.
Permitting for this type of facility usually occurs over a period of 10 to 15 years.  In our situation, this extended period of time has been reduced to only three years.  Both FEMA and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection have cooperated tremendously with this project.  A few permits remain, primarily from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, but final word is expected very shortly.  In particular, the FEMA environmental assessment, which was a significant undertaking, has been completed.
The administration building for the new facility will resemble an attractive brick schoolhouse.  The building will contain a safe room, housing the controls for the facility, constructed to withstand the most significant storms and disasters.  The entire building will be constructed to withstand a Category 5 hurricane.
The administration building will cost approximately $10 million and contain primary and secondary pumps with emergency generators for use in the event of loss of power.  The building also will contain odor scrubbers such that there should be no odor from the product being treated.
The remaining hurdles for construction include capital costs and possibly increasing costs for certain components of construction such as concrete.  Also, the final details of the design and permitting must be completed.  The new facility will be constructed on property that is approximately 105 ft. above sea level, so there should be no risk of inundation by hurricane or floodwaters.
ECUA is committing a significant amount of time and effort to this project, but in addition, there are other projects underway to improve life for the users of ECUA services.  These include updating meters to digital meters which can be read at a distance.  The initial cost will be approximately $3 million, but there will be substantial savings in time and money in the future.
Steve Sorrell commented that the culture at ECUA is much more like a corporation rather than a government bureaucracy.  ECUA does not rely on taxes but rather on revenues generated from its services.  ECUA provides excellent services, and customer satisfaction is always quite high, ranging from 80% to 94% during a recent survey.
Steve Sorrell then answered questions regarding the facility.  He confirmed that portions of Santa Rosa County could utilize the facility by paying impact fees, although Santa Rosa County has not contributed financially to the construction of the facility.  In addition, the 18.8 acres on which the existing facility in downtown Pensacola is located will be cleared and will most likely be sold for private development.
President Jerry thanked Steve Sorrell for a very timely and detailed report and for providing the “straight poop” on this most important project.  President Jerry then thanked all participants and reminded all in attendance that “Rotary shares.”  The meeting was adjourned at approximately 1:10 p.m.

Rotary Wheels

Birthdays

David Stafford – April 16 – Pensacola, FL, 3 years

Ted Brown – April 16 – Pensacola, FL, 30 years

Edwin Roberts D.C. – April 17 – Pensacola, FL, 24 years

Mike Doman – April 17 – Pensacola, FL – 5 years

Scott Grissett – April 17 – Atmore, AL – 3/25/2008

Claudia Simmons – April 18 – Tallahassee, FL – 1 year

Keith Haynes – April 18 – Pensacola, Florida – less than 1 year

Extra

The Ethics in Business Award will be presented on Monday, May 5, 2008 at our Combined Rotary Clubs of Pensacola luncheon at New World Landing.

Last Meeting: April 1, 2008

Frances Yeo and Nora Bailey welcomed all with warm smiles on this spring day and two-on-one ticket sales were handled by David Bear and Ric Nickelsen.  The prayer and pledge were given by Robert Mills and President Jerry opened the meeting with various announcements on future meetings and programs.  Ed Wonders came up to introduce our newest member, Scott Gissett.

The $85 raffle was won by Skip Furlong and Charlie Blackwell took over for sunshine introducing our military guest representing the USAF and USN.  Guest of Rotarians and visiting Rotarians were also introduced and after some Red Level humor, Charlie led us in birthday song.

Eric Nickelsen introduced our program given by Ken Ford, founder and director of the Florida Institute of Human and Machine Cognition.  Ken gave us a presentation of their new project dealing with NASA and Lunar exploration.  The biggest challenge is for the safety of the astronauts and protection from solar radiation, primarily for solar flairs.  The Apollo astronauts experienced space suit trauma when riding in the lunar vehicle.  The reduced gravity caused the body to be rattled around in the space suit causing injury.  Also, radiation exposure was not as widely known in past flights.

The IHMC has developed a new Small Pressurized Rover Concept to house and transport the lunar visitors.  By operating inside the rover without the bulky suits, they avoid injury and function better.  The large protective space suits are attached outside the rover and the astronaut climbs into the suite from inside the module.  Once outside, their time is limited to 10 minutes to avoid overexposure to radiation.  Inside, radiation protection is provided by a water barrier compartment on top of the unit that also functions to keep the rover interior temperature cool.  Two persons can operate very comfortable or four very close together.  The seats move into sleeping quarters and there is also a toilet facility.  The rover has an exercise feature that will function as a battery charger.  Power to the independent six wheels is supplies by solar powered electricity.  The next trip will be to the polar region of the moon where there is 24 hours of sunlight.  Additionally, on future missions, solar collectors at mid points of the moon will be constructed and nuclear energy power is also being considered.

With the end of the space shuttle coming in 2010, Florida will see a reduction of several thousand NASA workers and contractors.  The future flights will be with single mission rocket delivery systems.  Because of environmental issues, launches might move to other countries.  But the future for Florida NASA workers and contractors is higher paying technical jobs.

Meeting adjourned.

Rotary Wheels

Somewhere Hal Major has a new interest, as one of the startup backers of a new commercial bank.                                                               
Some of our members’ firms really date back. Bill Elebash’s jewelry establishment opened here in 1919…BUT..its predecessor was open more than 20 years earlier. AND, John Phelps’ operation dates from about 1900. David Bear’s ancestor began his work in 1876.
Charles Gund is a financial consultant to The Fellows Fund which provides loans for medical, nursing and clerical education. Roger Vinson is the chairman.

Birthdays

Handsel Butts – April 8 – born in Natchez, MS, in Rotary 45 years

Mark Tuzo – April 11 – San Diego, CA, 22 years

Dick Dickerson – April 11 – Oxford, NC, 40 years

Clif Payne – April 12 – Pensacola, FL, 16 years

Ed Wonders – April 13 – Newton, KS, 6 years

Henry Roberts – April 14 – Selma, AL, 2 year

Extra

The Ethics in Business Award will be presented on Monday, May 5, 2008 at our Combined Rotary Clubs of Pensacola luncheon at New World Landing.

Last Meeting: March 25, 2008

The regular meeting of the Pensacola Rotary Club was held on March 25 under sunny spring skies.  Rotarians were greeted at the door by Dr. Ed Ranelli.  Bob Rogers handled raffle ticket sales for Tim Kane who was buried under a mound of tax returns at his office.
President Jerry called the meeting to order and led the club in the Four Way Test and then called Earl Hutto to the podium for the prayer and pledge.
The first item on the day’s agenda was the presentation of new members by their sponsors.  Blair Crooke introduced Barry Cole, Kathy Horton-Brown introduced Nancy Fetterman, Nigel Allen introduced Alexis Bolin and Milton Usry introduced Bill Dollarhide.  It was noted that with this tsunami of new members, President Jerry has succeeded in meeting the goal established for his reign – woo hoo!
The raffle pot of $84 was claimed by none other than the Mayor of Palafox – Nathan Kahn.
R.P Doyle was called to the podium for Sunshine accompanied by a smattering of applause.  R.P. introduced 2 military guests, 4 guests of the club and 3 visiting Rotarians.  No visit to the podium by R.P. would be complete without a few tidbits from the most recent edition of the Rotary magazine and he provided several fun facts for the benefit of the membership.
The club then joined in a rousing version of Happy Birthday You All for the birthday boys and girls.
President Jerry then called Paul Young to the podium for the presentation of the program.  Paul introduced Ginny Graybiel who is the managing editor of the Pensacola News Journal.  Ginny provided some insights to the old days at the PNJ newsroom when the reporters came in to work at 4 PM and left after meeting the deadline by 1 AM.  The worldwide web has caused dramatic changes to the old ways of doing business and locally Hurricane Ivan accelerated changes at the PNJ as many readers turned to the online edition for constant updates and reports due to the breakdown in other lines of communication.  The most significant change involves “CNN type journalists” who are scanning for news stories 24 hours a day and covering many more stories than in the past.  The PNJ website is experiencing dramatic growth in the number of visits it receives as more people seek to get their news on a dynamic basis as opposed to waiting for the paper to be delivered in the morning.  Ginny explained that the objective is for PNJ.com to become the MySpace or Facebook for the Pensacola community.
There being no further business the meeting was adjourned.

Rotary Wheels

See where Roger MacDonald was crowned King of the Saints and Sinners ball!
And Randy Jackson was one of four clergy singled out by the press to provide views on the celebration of Easter.
Jean Norman and United Way are moving ahead well with program of the United Way Foundation called The Agnes Weis Society.  The goal:  to reach a point where Society earnings would pay all United Way operating expenses.
Grover Robinson may have started something really interesting!  Through his suggestion the commission has memorialized the legislature to trim ALL salaries set by the state.  That’s two good moves in two months.  Keep it up!
Even with the current real estate gloom Wanda Cross’s company seems to be smiling.
John Appleyard’s new reader/coloring books called Going To The Hospital is out, en route to all county fourth graders.  Our Jimmy Jones is cartooned in the story as he counsels little ones.

Birthdays

Nathan Kahn– April 1- born in Mobile, AL,in Rotary 32 years

Charles Sherrill Sr. (Charlie) – April 6 – born in Pensacola, FL, in Rotary for 39 years

Bob Gaines – April 6 – born in Daytona Beach, FL, in Rotary 44 years

Last Meeting: March 18, 2008

Ron Richards and Ron Jackson greeted Rotarians/guests and sold raffle tickets to all who wanted to take a chance.

President Jerry called the meeting to order and Randy Jackson delivered the prayer and pledge. May 5th is the Ethics in Business Awards.  So far there haven’t been any nominations from this club so we are still seeking nominations. Please see Ed Ranelli for more information.

Vince Curry has received the District Service Award for the Episcopal Church.  Congratulations Vince!

Richard Sherrill and the membership committee have put forth five prospective members for the club.  They will be voted on by the board. One of the largest pots ever—$90 was awarded in the raffle to Mort O’Sullivan.

Al Stubblefield brought sunshine to the group and was greeted with Downtown Rotary enthusiasm.  Al welcomed our military guests, guests of Rotarians, Rotarians making up and birthdays.  Al also told an interesting story about why women make better estate planners.  Ask him to tell you about it sometime.   

Ellis Bullock introduced the program and Frank Miller who has been the head of the Pensacola Regional Airport since 1987. The Pensacola Regional Airport handles 1.7 million passengers annually.  Since Air Tran has begun flying out of Pensacola the airport has seen a 50% increase in traffic and out-performs Mobile and Ft. Walton airports.  Pensacola has 15%-18% more passengers combined.  The airport couldn’t add another carrier now even if one was presented.

The new airport construction project is in the design phase.  The main changes to occur include:
1.      New baggage screening area behind ticket counters so checked baggage will immediately be taken at ticket counter
2.      News and gift shop will be relocated past security gates and that area will be used for passenger screening opening up 6 lanes for swifter passenger processing.
3.      Additional 4 gates to be added to concourse bringing total to 12.
4.      Parking garage to be expanded, new 6 story parking garage will be added on to existing garage
The total cost will be $105,500,000 and Greenhut Construction has the contract.  The expansion will be funded by additional airport service fees, and should take 3-4 years to complete. 

President Jerry adjourned the meeting with . . . Remember, Rotary Shares.

Rotary Wheels

A wave of house fires has all but used the Red Cross funds for such humanitarian aid, according to members Leigh Broxton and Linda Biller.
John Hinman’s mighty proud of his new great-granddaughter.
Earl Hutto has an interesting ongoing assignment. Several Southern universities bring former Congressmen to their campus for Demo-Republican discussions on how legislation has developed. Earl’s on that circuit.
Our sympathy to Jeff Lewis in the death of his mother.

Birthdays

Donnie McMahon, March 28:  Pensacola, Florida, 1 year

Bill Mitchem, March 28:  Pensacola, Florida, 6 years

Nancy Maloy, March 30:  Saginaw, MI, 13 years

Tommy Tait, March 31:  Pensacola, FL, 12 years

Extra

MEMBERSHIP PROPOSALS:

NANCY FETTERMAN:
Nancy Fetterman is a member of the Board of Trustees of University of West Florida; Honorary Chair of the Vice Admiral John H. Fetterman State of Florida Maritime Museum and Research Center; member of the Florida Humanities Council; member of the Sacred Heart Hospital Advisory Board and member of the Board of Directors of Sacred Heart Health System; member of the Pensacola Children’s Chorus Advisory Board; Vice Chair of the Pensacola Library Foundation; and an advisor to the Oriskany Reefing Project.  Nancy is also active with the St. Michael’s Cemetery Foundation (having chaired its formation and now serving as Chairman Emeritus) and with ECARE, and she has previously worked with a number of other local nonprofit organizations.  Nancy holds a Master of Arts degree in Public History from UWF and formerly served as Program Coordinator for UWF’s Office of Public History.

ALEXIS BOLIN:
Alexis is a Charter Member of Pace Rotary Club since 1994, has served on the Pace Rotary Club Board of Directors, Club Service Chairman, and Editor of the Pace Rotary Club Newsletter, and was named Rotarian of the Year for Pace Rotary.  The Pace Rotary has honored Alexis by naming her a Paul Harris Fellow in 2002 by Rotary International. She is also a Sustaining Member, a Benefactor as well as a member of the Bequest Society for Rotary International. Alexis is a member of Impact 100 Pensacola and involved in various community activities such as Manna Food Bank, Muscular Dystrophy, Cancer Society, Covenant Hospice, Habitat for Humanity, Building the Community Play Ground in Pace, Friends of the Saenger, Gulf Breeze Chamber of Commerce, Donated to the St. Luke Methodist Church building fund and was appointed to serve on the 2000 Census committee.
Alexis along with her family established the Alexis Bolin Endowed Scholarship in memory of Rachel Barshafsky and Sonia Burchett at Pensacola Junior College. This scholarship goes to a child of a single parent or a single parent who is working towards improving their education.

BARRY COLE
Barry Cole was born in Jackson, Mississippi and moved to Pensacola at the age of 13.  He graduated from Washington High, received his AA in business from Pensacola Junior College and then attended the University of West Florida. Barry is married to his high school sweetheart, Laura, and has two boys, Conner age 13 and Harrison age 8. He started Bere’ Jewelers 24 years ago with a partner and now owns the stores in both Pensacola and Gulf Breeze. Barry is a LeaP graduate, a board member of the Sacred Heart Hospital Foundation and on the Board of Governors for Pensacola Junior College. He is active in the Fiesta of Five Flags, the past Chief of the Mayoki Indians and a member of the Pensacola Big Game Fishing Club.  If you have been to a fundraiser in town, you have more than likely seen or bid on a piece of jewelry that Bere’ has donated to the cause.

BILL DOLLARHIDE
Bill is the co-owner with his wife, Margaret, of Dollarhide’s Music Center, Inc., in downtown Pensacola. They opened for business in 1988 and are currently celebrating their 20th anniversary. Bill earned his graduate and undergraduate degrees in music from the University of Southern Mississippi.  He was a public school music teacher in Florida and Mississippi prior to entering the music products industry in 1975.  He is a member of the Pensacola Bay Area Chamber of Commerce, the Better Business Bureau of Northwest Florida, the International Music Products Association, the Music Teachers National Association, the American Guild of Organists and the Pensacola Music Teachers Association.  He has served in various community service activities in Pensacola including the Better Business Bureau, the Downtown Improvement Board, SpringFest and Bravo for Kids.  He is currently the vice president of the Pensacola Symphony board of directors.

SCOTT GRISSETT
Scott was promoted for membership by President Jerry, who has known Scott’s family for a number of years. Scott was “raised a Rotarian” as Jerry put it, and was particularly involved with Interact. One of the motivations behind bringing Scott in as a member will be that he can fall in line to take over Interact duties behind Ed Wonders.  Scott is a salesman for Buffalo Rock. His family business—which he will likely take over at some point down the road—is hardware and heavy equipment in the Atmore area. Scott is young, energetic and eager to be a part of our group.  Among other things, Scott will bring down our Club’s average age!

Last Meeting: March 11, 2008

Warm greetings for everyone today came from greeter Jim Stolhanske, while Claudia Simmons and Tim Kane handled ticket sales. President Maygarden called the meeting to order and led us in the four-way test. Prayer and pledge was led by Roger Vinson, and Jerry requested a moment of silence for the recent passing of Henry Keener Tippins, Jr. M.D.

President Maygarden began announcements by encouraging Rotarians to attend the upcoming District Conference April 11, 12, and 13 in Panama City. There will be a stand up Membership Committee meeting today after the meeting. June 22 will be Family of Rotary at the Yacht Club.

Martin Harwood announced that all new members since 2000 (104 people) are automatically on the “greeter committee”. These folks are asked to go to the Rotary website to see what date you are greeting. President Maygarden shared the excellent news that Sam Goldberg and his wife Joyce have been named national hospice volunteers of the year.

In honor of St. Patrick, the Rotary Rooters graced us with Irish tunes. Roger MacDonald was festive in his green and white striped ‘Cat in the Hat’ hat.  Mr. Sunshine, Richard Sherrill, dutifully carried out his duties, introducing military guests, guests and visiting Rotarians. His ongoing attempts at humor brought on numerous requests for “the hook”. Birthday cheers went out to members, accompanied by John Appleyard on piano.

Jim Martin introduced today’s speaker, Dr. Thomas Delaino, the fifth and current Pensacola Junior College president. Dr. Delaino is a native of Cedar Key, a die hard Gator fan, and was in the US Air Force. He was at Santa Fe Community College in Gainesville prior to joining PJC. In 2002, Dr. Delaino was named president of PJC and under his stewardship the college serves more than 30,000 students each year. He will soon be retiring. In recognition of his positive impact on this community Dr. Delaino received a standing ovation by the club.

Dr. Delaino provided an overview of PJC’s 60-year history. It was founded in 1948 and began at the corner of Palafox and Cervantes streets. That year, 128 students attended. In 1954, Dr. Henry Ashmore became the first president of PJC. In 1956, the Southern Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools granted accreditation, and in 1957, the college relocated to its present Ninth Avenue location. A little later the PJC Foundation was created that now has more than $16.6 million in assets.

WSRE-TV began operations at PJC in the late 60s; and in the early 90s it became the area’s first digital television production studio. In 1971, PJC’s Milton campus opened, and then moved to its present site on Highway 90. PJC’s third campus opened in 1977 on Highway 98 in Warrington. In 1989, the college opened the Downtown Center. For more information regarding PJC’s history, Dr. Delaino referred to the book, “Recollections:  The Story of Pensacola Junior College”, by John Appleyard.

Speaking to the future of PJC, Dr. Delaino mentioned a groundbreaking of the Edward Chadbourne library coming soon, as well as renovations to the adult high school. Another exciting new venture is a brand new $22 million academy for public safety training in conjunction with the County and the Sheriff’s department. It will be located in the northern end of the county on Hwy 29 and will house training for police, emergency medical technicians, homeland security, etc.
Dr. Delaino shared his concern about the current governance of higher education, and the possible renaming of the ‘community college system’ to a ‘state college system’. He worries about things that could see the college’s focus move away from its mission. He provided a short update on the search for his successor; eight names have been provided to the Board of Trustees, tonight they will decide who to interview, final interviews will take place over the next 2-3 weeks, with a final decision to be made soon after. Any time is fine for Dr. Delaino as long as it is wrapped up by May 31st.

President Maygarden closed the meeting by thanking all who participated, and “Rotary Shares”.

Rotary Wheels

See where this month Ted Nickinson and Jack Fleming will step down from their long roles as heads of the St. John’s Cemetery Foundation, where they’ve done so much to improve the burial ground.
Many members were in attendance on March 10th for the funeral service for former member Keener Tippins. Our sympathy to his daughter member Julie.
Alan Bookman and Teri Levin are board members for Kids House, and Rodger Doyle is on the Symphony Board.
Commissioner Grover Robinson has the concern of having to trim county funds from agencies led by fellow Rotarians Jean Norman, John Clark, Leigh Broxton and Gary Bembry.
With growing problems with subprime mortgages, rising unemployment, credit concerns and more perhaps the club should consider a panel of members to address the local situation. After all, we have twenty-seven members whose work is allied with those activities.
As of March 12th Jim Martin was in the final four in the PJC presidents race.

Birthdays

Wylie Hogeman – March 20 - born in Baton Rouge, LA,in Rotary 12 years

Lew Doman – March 21 - born in Alton, IL, in Rotary 42 years

Rick Nickelsen – March 21 – born in Pensacola, FL, in Rotary 7 years

Teri Levin - March 23 – born in Jeffersonville, IN, in Rotary 3 years

Shawn Brantley– March 24 – born in Cocoa, FL, in Rotary 7 years

Extra

MEMBERSHIP PROPOSALS:

NANCY FETTERMAN:
Nancy Fetterman is a member of the Board of Trustees of University of West Florida; Honorary Chair of the Vice Admiral John H. Fetterman State of Florida Maritime Museum and Research Center; member of the Florida Humanities Council; member of the Sacred Heart Hospital Advisory Board and member of the Board of Directors of Sacred Heart Health System; member of the Pensacola Children’s Chorus Advisory Board; Vice Chair of the Pensacola Library Foundation; and an advisor to the Oriskany Reefing Project.  Nancy is also active with the St. Michael’s Cemetery Foundation (having chaired its formation and now serving as Chairman Emeritus) and with ECARE, and she has previously worked with a number of other local nonprofit organizations.  Nancy holds a Master of Arts degree in Public History from UWF and formerly served as Program Coordinator for UWF’s Office of Public History.
ALEXIS BOLIN:
Alexis is a Charter Member of Pace Rotary Club since 1994, has served on the Pace Rotary Club Board of Directors, Club Service Chairman, and Editor of the Pace Rotary Club Newsletter, and was named Rotarian of the Year for Pace Rotary.  The Pace Rotary has honored Alexis by naming her a Paul Harris Fellow in 2002 by Rotary International. She is also a Sustaining Member, a Benefactor as well as a member of the Bequest Society for Rotary International. Alexis is a member of Impact 100 Pensacola and involved in various community activities such as Manna Food Bank, Muscular Dystrophy, Cancer Society, Covenant Hospice, Habitat for Humanity, Building the Community Play Ground in Pace, Friends of the Saenger, Gulf Breeze Chamber of Commerce, Donated to the St. Luke Methodist Church building fund and was appointed to serve on the 2000 Census committee.
Alexis along with her family established the Alexis Bolin Endowed Scholarship in memory of Rachel Barshafsky and Sonia Burchett at Pensacola Junior College. This scholarship goes to a child of a single parent or a single parent who is working towards improving their education.
BARRY COLE
Barry Cole was born in Jackson, Mississippi and moved to Pensacola at the age of 13.  He graduated from Washington High, received his AA in business from Pensacola Junior College and then attended the University of West Florida. Barry is married to his high school sweetheart, Laura, and has two boys, Conner age 13 and Harrison age 8. He started Bere’ Jewelers 24 years ago with a partner and now owns the stores in both Pensacola and Gulf Breeze. Barry is a LeaP graduate, a board member of the Sacred Heart Hospital Foundation and on the Board of Governors for Pensacola Junior College. He is active in the Fiesta of Five Flags, the past Chief of the Mayoki Indians and a member of the Pensacola Big Game Fishing Club.  If you have been to a fundraiser in town, you have more than likely seen or bid on a piece of jewelry that Bere’ has donated to the cause.
BILL DOLLARHIDE
Bill is the co-owner with his wife, Margaret, of Dollarhide’s Music Center, Inc., in downtown Pensacola. They opened for business in 1988 and are currently celebrating their 20th anniversary. Bill earned his graduate and undergraduate degrees in music from the University of Southern Mississippi.  He was a public school music teacher in Florida and Mississippi prior to entering the music products industry in 1975.  He is a member of the Pensacola Bay Area Chamber of Commerce, the Better Business Bureau of Northwest Florida, the International Music Products Association, the Music Teachers National Association, the American Guild of Organists and the Pensacola Music Teachers Association.  He has served in various community service activities in Pensacola including the Better Business Bureau, the Downtown Improvement Board, SpringFest and Bravo for Kids.  He is currently the vice president of the Pensacola Symphony board of directors.
SCOTT GRISSETT
Scott was promoted for membership by President Jerry, who has known Scott’s family for a number of years. Scott was “raised a Rotarian” as Jerry put it, and was particularly involved with Interact. One of the motivations behind bringing Scott in as a member will be that he can fall in line to take over Interact duties behind Ed Wonders.  Scott is a salesman for Buffalo Rock. His family business—which he will likely take over at some point down the road—is hardware and heavy equipment in the Atmore area. Scott is young, energetic and eager to be a part of our group.  Among other things, Scott will bring down our Club’s average age!

Last Meeting: March 4, 2008

The regular meeting of the Pensacola Rotary Club took place on Tuesday, March 4, 2008. President Jerry Maygarden called the meeting to order. Roger McDonald gave the pledge and prayer. R P (Rodger) Doyle welcomed visitors, guests and Sunshine, and birthdays were celebrated with song.

President Maygarden announced that Cliff Payne and committee applied for a grant from Rotary International to help children get wheelchairs in Costa Rica. The grant request for $24,875 was doubled to $58,000. Members applauded this charitable deed.

President Maygarden announced that March 31 was the close of membership recommendations. We began the year with 252 members and have had a 7 member loss and a 7 member gain. All were encouraged to get membership recommendations in soon.

Also, he announced the Ethics Awards Banquet would be on Monday, May 5 at UWF and that we would not have a meeting the next day, i.e. Tuesday. Sunday, May 25, is the designated date for the Family of Rotary. Carol Law will be giving updated information.

Paul Young, Program Chairperson, introduced the speakers of the day, Dr. Coy Irvin of Baptist Health Care and Dr. Judy Bense of the University of West Florida. Dr. Irvin is the co-chairman of the 450th year Executive Committee developing the planning for the community celebration. Dr. Irvin introduced his co-chairman, Maria Davis. He said the committee was working on a master calendar that will include marketing and education. New events for the celebration include: Tall Ships, Heritage Festival, Landing, a concert, etc. Funding for the event will come from grant monies and from the City of Pensacola, Escambia County Tourism, State, Federal and sponsorships.

Dr. Judy Bense spoke on the history of the early Pensacola settlement and of other early settlers in the southeastern US. She touched on settlements and explorations of Ponce de Leon, Maldonado, & Tristan de Luna. She told of the 1599 settlement in Pensacola that included 13 ships and 1500 people and how a hurricane effected the settlement. It was some of these ships that were sunk in the mouth of Bayou Texar that UWF archaeological students have made findings. She said there would be continued explorations in search of these ships and other historic projects.

President Jerry thanked all who had a part in the program, and Rex McKinney for selling tickets. The meeting was adjourned.

Rotary Wheels

Getting ready for St. Patrick’s Day your Rooters will serenade the club with a medley of appropriate ballads on Tuesday.
See where Eric Nickelsen’s getting ready for a wedding come next month.
There were many members present at Jim Coe’s 80th birthday party last Saturday. The party, at Jack Williams’ place, was a grand mixer…and one who was there was Bill Wiltshire, who for years was a club member but has been out of action due to illness.
When Hugh Hamilton & company began celebration of Trinity Presbyterian Church’s golden anniversary a highlight was making Frank Bell the emeritus minister. Frank served there for 26 years. He continues his work as an interim pastor, currently serving in Tallahassee.
Evon Emerson and her chamber staff are glowing in the wake of the announced military aircraft order. Some believe that several related businesses could be affected locally.
Glad to see that Jim Martin’s in the Final Four for the PJC presidency.
Note that Frances Yeo and Junior Achievement are expanding their workings in the schools. JA’s 50 years old in Pensacola and continues to do good work.

Birthdays

Doug Werber – March 13 – born in Cleveland, OH, in Rotary 3 years

Charlie Sherrill (Jr.) - March 15 – born in Lawton, OK, in Rotary 15 years

Andrea Farage – March 17 – born in Pensacola, FL, in Rotary 5 years

Extra

Congratulations to Vince Currie who was awarded the Distinguished Service Award by the Episcopal Diocese of the Central Gulf Coast at its Annual Convention in Mobile, on Feb. 23.

Last Meeting: February 26, 2008

The Pensacola Rotary Club held its regular meeting on February 26, 2008 under overcast skies and warm temps.
 
President Jerry called the meeting to order and led the club in the 4 way test.
 
Nancy Malloy was called to the podium to lead in prayer and the pledge of allegiance.
 
President Jerry announced that nominations are still being sought for the Ethics in Business awards luncheon – ballots can be obtained at the business table.  Jerry then read a letter submitted to the Pensacola News Journal by the Executive Director of Global Corner acknowledging the Club’s role in cultural exchange efforts.
 
President Jerry then called Terry Scruggs to the podium to introduce our newest member, Trey Manderson.  Trey is a local realtor associated with Coldwell Banker.  He is a graduate of Mississippi State and located to Pensacola in 1994.  He is active in various community activities and his addition to our ranks serves to lower the median age of the membership by 4.25 years.
 
Brian Bell and Tim Kane hawked raffle tickets and the lucky winner of the raffle was none other than Peit Hudson who walked away with 64 crisp dollar bills.
 
President Jerry then called on Nigel Allen for Sunshine.  Nigel received a round of applause when he announced that the program was tight and he would forego jokes.  He then introduced 2 military guests, 3 guests of Rotarians and 3 visiting Rotarians.  Happy Birthday You All was rough this week due to lack of musical accompaniment.  Unfortunately Nigel failed to keep his promise and told a big groaner about a murder for hire at Wal-Mart.
 
President Jerry then called Jim Stolhanske to the podium for our annual club assembly to include updates on current club activities.  The first activity that was highlighted was our literacy effort through the Wee Read and ECARE programs. Dale Jordan provided a recap of our efforts in this arena and introduced some of the partners that we work with in local day care centers to teach children to read as well as teaching parents and teachers how to teach children to read in the preschool setting.  ECARE is the early childhood education program that was initiated recently and is making great strides in dealing with local literacy issues.
 
Sandra Smith then provided a recap of our international efforts which are focused on providing aid and assistance to schools in India as well as the purchase of equipment for an eye hospital that treats avoidable blindness disease in that country.
 
Sherry Hartnett then updated the club on the local Rotary effort via Junior Achievement. Hats off to Sherry who currently serves as Chair of the local JA chapter.  Sherry presented a video featuring Theo Baars and Vince Whibbs and detailing their efforts to start JA in Pensacola in 1958 and the great journey of the mission of teaching free enterprise to the children in our community.  We were then treated to a great testimonial from a student at West Florida High who has worked his way up through the ranks at a local McDonald’s restaurant while attending school.
 
There being no further business the meeting was adjourned.

Rotary Wheels

Betty Roberts and Rodger Doyle are mighty pleased with news that the Northwest Florida Blood Center will merge with another provider, making both bigger and stronger than ever.
Collier Merrill and Jimmy Jones were among club members present on a rainy night when Bill Donahue and Merrill Lynch colleagues hosted a client dinner to hear a national figure detail the national economic outlook.
Jack Fleming missed the recent Rooter program as he was on a cruise covering several of the oil-producing middle eastern countries.
Mike Ferguson and Jerry Maygarden are steaming ahead with their parts of the Honor Flight program. 100 WWII vets will be flown to Washington April 30th to see the memorial there. The pair are involved in raising the dollars for the charter flight.
Ted Nickinson and John Appleyard unveiled their History of Trinity Presbyterian Church at the kickoff of that church’s 50th anniversary celebration. The February 29th dinner also saw Frank Beall made an emeritus pastor at the church he served for a quarter century.

Birthdays

Fred Sitten – March 7 – born in Albertville, AL, in Rotary 9 years

Susan Graf– March 8 – born in St. Louis, MO, in Rotary 3 years

Clark Merritt – March 10 - born in Pensacola, FL,in Rotary 5 years

Last Meeting: February 19, 2008

Warm greetings for everyone came from Charlie Blackwell and new member Audrey Young.

President Maygarden called the meeting to order and led us in the four-way test. Prayer and pledge was led by Henry Roberts.

President Maygarden began announcements by reminding the Rotary Board of their upcoming meeting Feb. 28th at 7:30am at the Baptist Towers. He also reminded everyone that the Ethics in Business luncheon will be Monday, May 5th, with the May 6th Rotary meeting being cancelled. Kudos went out to Vince Currie and Tim Kane for the high raffle ticket sales, and Richard Sherrill was the lucky winner of the $100 raffle.
The ever popular Rotary Rooters shared their passion for patriotic music through song, led by Charlie Blackwell in his dashing red jacket and American flag tie.

Mr. Sunshine, Charles Beall, introduced numerous guests and visitors, keeping the level of cheer high by way of sharing a few humorous jokes.  Birthday well wishes were sung to all accompanied by John Appleyard on piano.

Jimmy Jones presented our speaker, Captain Kevin G. Berry, Commanding Officer of the Naval Hospital. Captain Berry hails from Fullerton, California, and is a licensed physician in that state. He became the new commanding officer of the Naval Hospital in Pensacola, on June 5, 2006. Captain Berry has 2,000 people that work for him; 1100 of those are in uniform. Of these workers, some are here in Pensacola while others staff branch clinics across five states.

A photo of the new VA/DoD joint venture Ambulatory Care Clinic in Pensacola was shared and Captain Berry stated that it is 99% complete. March 4th they will be ready for the final engineering certification. The building is on Navy land on Highway 98 next to the Naval Hospital. They plan to retire a clinic that was built in the 50’s that should have been torn down years ago. In addition to health care, the clinic will provide dental care and it will have a physical and occupational therapy suite. In time, they plan to add other specialties as well. Captain Berry explained that Pensacola is the center of population for the VA and DoD – not Biloxi, MS; and his goal is to move as much of the operations here as possible.

The Naval Hospital is partnering with UWF on two upcoming conferences: one on traumatic brain injury and post traumatic stress, and the other on coordination of care with the Air Force. Captain Berry also explained how important a solid health information exchange with compatible electronic medical records is for coordination of care, and that they are already working in collaboration with Baptist Health Care, Sacred Heart Hospital and West Florida Hospital on this initiative.

President Maygarden thanked all those that helped at the meeting, and with that the meeting was adjourned.

Rotary Wheels

Hats off to Evon Emerson and the Chamber for another sellout PACE Awards evening. And…note that both Dale Knee and John Cavanaugh were recipients. As an added attraction some wives (and some members) were part of the charter group that founded IMPACT…which also was recognized.
Music purists would notice, but Morris Eaddy now has TWO saws which he plays. The difference lies in the range of tones…which means different saws for different tunes. Oh…and look for some lady members to join the Rooters.
Vince Currie surely showed off his sales skills at the last meeting. Wheels believes that his work resulted in the first-ever $100 pot from the lottery.
A year ago Britt Landrum presented a program detailing his role as an advisor-researcher for the Federal Reserve Board. Maybe we ought to get Britt back; the Fed’s got a story to tell right now.
Hear tell that Bill Maloy’s being used as a conduit by folks interested in the school superintendent’s job.
Have you noticed that Judge Terry Terrell seems to be getting a lot of high exposure cases lately?

Birthdays

Bob Fargo – March 1 – born in Springfield, IL, in Rotary 30 years

Lou Ray – March 3 - born in St. Louis, MO, in Rotary 30 years

Extra

New Members

Audrey Young was born in Yuma, Arizona.  In 1995, Audrey chose to move to Pensacola to pursue a degree in Accounting.  In 1999, she graduated with her degree from the University of West Florida.  Her dedication and hard work is evidenced by her advancement with Varona’s Enterprises.  Welcome!
Trey Manderson is our newest Rotarian.  He heads the Manderson Group real estate team.  Trey graduated from Mississippi State University in 1994 with a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration.  He also is a graduate of the Realtor Institute.  He is a member of Gulf Beach United Methodist Church and coaches youth soccer and basketball.

Ethics in Business Awards

The Ethics in Business Award will be presented on Monday, May 5, 2008 at our Combined Rotary Clubs of Pensacola luncheon at New World Landing.  If you would like to nominate an individual from the public/non-profit sector or from the private sector, please pick up a nomination form at Tuesday’s meeting.  All nominations must be received by April 4, 2008.

Last Meeting: February 12, 2008

Minutes of the Membership Meeting of The Rotary Club of Pensacola

Welcome greetings were extended by Auby Smith on this warm winter day and Charles Sherrill Jr. strong armed the raffle ticket sales.  President Jerry called the meeting to order turning over the podium to Jack Nobles for the prayer and pledge. 

Our newest member, Audrey Young, was introduced by Andrea Farage.  The $71 raffle was won by Gene Killinger, and on to sunshine with Rodger Doyle.  Military guests, visitors and visiting Rotarians were introduced, some outstanding humor was allowed and an off pace “happy birthday” was presented.

Roger Enzor introduced our speaker, Senator Don Gaetz representing our area’s District Four.  Elected in 2006, the former Okaloosa County School Superintendent has a keen interest in State Education policies. He acknowledged Rotary’s work and programs especially those our club has for youth.  He announced Gov. Crist has appointed Roger Enzor to the Florida Board of Realtors and also showed his support for Holly Benson’s appointment as Secretary of the State’s Agency for Health Care Administration.

Speaking to the recent approval by 2/3rd vote of the tax relief Amendment I, Senator Gaetz announced his support of the Amendment.  A “No” vote would have put the issue aside and no further tax relief would have been addressed in this session.

Senator Gaetz is planning to sponsor legislation to limit and correct the scope of Government’s authority over taxes.  He proposes adjustments to the Property appraisers “presumed correctness” and replaces it with a provision for the property owner to be presumed to be correct in the land use.  He wants to replace the “highest best use” concept with an “actual use” provision for taxation. 

Senator Gaetz maintains that the two main factions in Tallahassee are those for “big government” and those for “limited government”, who are in the minority.  Government needs to be accountable and operate on smaller budgets.  With new housing incentives using public property for development and with tax incentives, growth can be created in the private sectors.  School funds need to go to the schools and classes rather than the larger amount going elsewhere in the school system.  Florida will be better if we can improve Education, housing and taxation.

Rotary Wheels

Frank Beall, former pastor of Trinity Presbyterian Church, will be part of the celebration of the church’s 50th anniversary, along with Hugh Hamilton, Ted Nickinson and many others.
Look for Gerry Hoewing to help club members see and understand the new game which the National Aviation Museum now has in use. (It’s for big kids as well as little ones.)
When ground was broken for the Saenger renovations Jack Nobles and Miller Caldwell were among those turning early.
Hill Turner is depressed! His beloved St. Louis Cardinals claim that they have lost the keys to another National League pennant. And Hill’s too old to play.
Jack Gray seems to qualify for “the new civic club responsibility of the week” club. Now he’s also president of the Catholic Charities organization

Birthdays

Stephen Benz – Feb 19- born in Pensacola, FL, in Rotary 9 years

Cal Moore – Feb. 19 – born in Montgomery, AL, in Rotary 24 years

Roger Vinson – Feb. 19 – born in Cadiz, KY, in Rotary 25 years

Don Haferkamp – Feb. 20 - born in LaPorte, IN, in Rotary 7 years

Jimmy Jones– Feb. 21 – born in Paragould, AR, in Rotary 29 years

Frank Beall – Feb 23- born in Dothan, AL, in Rotary 42 years

Extra

ANNOUNCEMENT:

The Ethics in Business Award will be presented on Monday, May 5, 2008 at our Combined Rotary Clubs of Pensacola luncheon at New World Landing.  If you would like to nominate an individual from the public/non-profit sector or from the private sector, please pick up a nomination form at Tuesday’s meeting.  All nominations must be received by April 4, 2008.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: NEWEST MEMBERS

Audrey Young was born in Yuma, Arizona.  In 1995, Audrey chose to move to Pensacola to pursue a degree in Accounting.  In 1999, she graduated with her degree from the University of West Florida.  Her dedication and hard work is evidenced by her advancement with Varona’s Enterprises.  Welcome!
Trey Manderson is our newest Rotarian.  He heads the Manderson Group real estate team.  Trey graduated from Mississippi State University in 1994 with a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration.  He also is a graduate of the Realtor Institute.  He is a member of Gulf Beach United Methodist Church and coaches youth soccer and basketball.

Last Meeting: February 5, 2008

Sally Fox greeted attendees on this balmy overcast day and Leigh Broxton hawked raffle tickets.  President Jerry called the meeting to order with the announcement that UWF requests input for educational needs for the downtown facility.  Go to http://www.UWF.edu or contact John Cavanaugh’s office at 474-2200. 

Betty Gail Peters led in the prayer and pledge with Vince Currie handling sunshine.  Vince noted that Larry Scott was recovering in Atlanta from open heart surgery.  Military guest representing the USAF and USMC were introduced along with visitors and visiting Rotarians.  After birthday greetings, the $75 raffle was won by Mark Harden.

Collier Merrill introduced our speaker, T.K. Wetherell, President of Florida State University.  Being the first FSU alumni (class of ‘67) to serve as president, Wetherell also served in the Florida Legislature from 1980 until 1992, when he ended his term as Speaker of The House.  He still holds the record for the longest FSU football kickoff return.

FSU has over 40,000 students in Tallahassee with over 4,000 attending in Panama City as well as programs in various other countries.  The school budget is $1.8 billion of which $850 million comes from the State.  The balance must be generated through other sources. The University has a large economic impact such as $8-10 million for the home football games where 80,000 fans come to Tallahassee and school purchases and payroll for employees.

The challenges facing all Florida Universities is budget cuts primarily from Amendment I dealing with property tax cuts.  FSU is experiencing an 8% cut since August 2007 representing a loss of $32,000,000.  Each freshman class is setting higher academic standards but this year’s enrollment will be cut some 1000 students due to lack of State funding.  The Engineering, Medical and Legal schools rank high among all State Universities, but changes are going to make it harder to keep up these standards.  Florida needs to commit to keeping the academic standards high.

President Wetherell reviewed an alternate plan for reducing all property taxes 30% and raising sale tax to fund the loss of revenues.  Currently 40% of State sales taxes come from tourists.  He asks that we look at this option by going to http://www.fsu.edu or http://www.fsu.com for information on this option.

Rotary Wheels

Hats off to Bobby Switzer & Company for their BIG gift to the Fetterman Museum!
Ron Jackson has been honored with another major role in the accounting field.
When the Rooters perform February 19th, they’ll be honoring the Month of Presidents which, sadly, has been largely ignored in recent years. The peppy patriotic tunes should make everyone happy.
Morris Eaddy had his own art show at a local Gallery set for February 8th. Morris does some great things.
Henry Cary (age 90) has some mobility problems but otherwise is doing well. He asks to be remembered to all.
Jack Fleming’s new book, called Thinking Places, is off the press.
Lew Doman and Jean Norman are working hard to get folks to recognize the special work of the United Way Foundation…an organization which targets one day covering the operating expenses of the parent group.
Credit Jack Gray with being chaplain of the Navy League.
Ed Nickinson & spouse had an unusual problem. They went skiing in Colorado and moaned that there was too much snow.
Former Sunshine Specialist Larry Scott had extensive heart surgery late last week. Hear he’s doing okay.
Milt Usry keeps counting things. Now he’s treasurer of Manna Food Bank.

Birthdays

Robert Palmer – Feb. 16 – born in Pensacola, FL, in Rotary 18 years
David Harrison – Feb. 17 – born in Mobile, AL, in Rotary 1 year

Extra

ANNOUNCEMENT:

The Ethics in Business Award will be presented on Monday, May 5, 2008 at our Combined Rotary Clubs of Pensacola luncheon at New World Landing.  If you would like to nominate an individual from the public/non-profit sector or from the private sector, please pick up a nomination form at Tuesday’s meeting.  All nominations must be received by April 4, 2008.

ANNOUNCEMENT:

UWF needs your input
The University of West Florida will operate the Education Center in the Vince Whibbs Community Maritime Park. To help us plan, we ask your help in identifying current and future education and training needs that could be met at the Center. Your participation and input are very important to this process. We are conducting a series of “listening sessions” between January and March 2008 to gather ideas from a wide cross-section of our community.  Registration for the listening session is available until February 15, 2008 at http://continuinged.uwf.edu/ListeningSession.cfm or by contacting the Office of Continuing Education at 850-474-2914.
We are counting on your participation in this very important effort. We remain firmly committed to providing educational and training programs that meet demonstrated needs. Thank you for helping UWF to better serve the needs of the Greater Pensacola Community!

Last Meeting: January 29, 2008

Hal Major greeted Rotarians/guests and Scott Paul sold raffle tickets to all who wanted to take a chance.  President Jerry called the meeting to order and Leonard Schwartz delivered the prayer and pledge.

President Jerry started by announcing that Sam Foreman is heading up the Group Study Exchange to Southern France this year.  He needs host families for the Rotarians visiting from France and needs people to shuttle the Rotarians back and forth.

The Board met and has accepted Bill Wiltshire’s and James “Rocky” DeSimone’s resignation from the club.  They will be missed. There was a call for nominations for the Ethics in Business Awards. 

Robert Mills brought a little sunshine and was greeted with usual Downtown Rotary Sunshine enthusiasm.  Robert welcomed Sam Goldenberg back and then welcomed our military guests, guests of Rotarians, Rotarians making up and birthdays.   

Paul Young introduced Denis Taylor, CEO of West Florida Hospital for today’s presentation. West Florida Hospital (WFH) is the smallest of the three main hospitals in town.  Even so in 2007 WFH had $211 million in net revenue.  On the expense side, $77 million went to salaries, wages and benefits; they paid $1 million in property taxes, $1.7 million in sales tax, $1.8 million in indigent costs and they employ 1,200 people.  WFH is very proud of its Hospice Unit established on the 3rd floor and the quality health care that is provided.  WFH’s parent company, Hospital Corporation of America monitors their quality of care.  WFH has also invested in new technology including a system to send radiology results anywhere in the world.

The healthcare system as a whole is facing 3 main challenges.
1.      The uninsured:  the number continues to rise and no one seems to know how to fix it. 
2.      Deregulation will continue to drive up the costs as does increased competition.
3.      The looming doctor shortage.  Currently 41 % of the doctors in Florida are over the age of 55.  The state of Florida ranks 44th with residency opportunities. 

Taylor proposed a possible solution:  universal coverage. He likened this issue to what happened many years ago in the Florida car insurance industry.  Car insurance rates were out of control, people were dropping their coverage, and for those that had coverage – their insurance rates kept going up.  So the state of Florida required a minimum amount of coverage.  As a result, the rates when down.

President Jerry wrapped up the meeting stating that T.K. Wetherell, President of Florida State University, will be the program next week.  There will be an FSU alumni event, and if you are interested in attending, please email Jerry Maygarden.

Rotary Wheels

Club members and architecture are in the news.  Tip-of-the-hat to Terry Scruggs and their Country Club board for the first class job on their new clubhouse.  And, make note that Andrea Farage and the Ronald McDonald House team have unveiled their plans for a $5 million-plus 22 room haven for parents at the Children’s Hospital.
See where Jack Nobles has his hat in the ring for another city council term.  Charlie Wiggin’s dad, Mike is getting his running shoes polished, too.
Hats off to Coy Irvin.  The Doc is serving as voluntary health screener for the vets making the Emerald Coast Honor Flight to Washington this spring.
Reed Bell and his brother, Bill, have been honored by 4-H club boys and girls for their continuing (and long time)j work on behalf of agriculture and youth in Escambia County.
Pat Groner is about to gain another honor.  Pat’s to be installed in the Modern Healthcare Hall of Fame.

Birthdays

Gerald Hoewing – Feb. 6– born in Keokuk, Iowa, in Rotary 2 years
Joel Mooneyham – Feb 7 - born in Pensacola, FL, in Rotary 11 years
Ed Ranelli – Feb. 8 - born in Birmingham, AL, in Rotary 7 years
Grover Robinson – Feb. 11 – born in Gainesville, FL, in Rotary 12 years

Extra

ANNOUNCEMENT:

The Ethics in Business Award will be presented on Monday, May 5, 2008 at our Combined Rotary Clubs of Pensacola luncheon at New World Landing.  If you would like to nominate an individual from the public/non-profit sector or from the private sector, please pick up a nomination form at Tuesday’s meeting.  All nominations must be received by April 4, 2008.

ANNOUNCEMENT

UWF needs your input
The University of West Florida will operate the Education Center in the Vince Whibbs Community Maritime Park. To help us plan, we ask your help in identifying current and future education and training needs that could be met at the Center. Your participation and input are very important to this process. We are conducting a series of “listening sessions” between January and March 2008 to gather ideas from a wide cross-section of our community.  Registration for the listening session is available until February 15, 2008 at http://continuinged.uwf.edu/ListeningSession.cfm or by contacting the Office of Continuing Education at 850-474-2914.
We are counting on your participation in this very important effort. We remain firmly committed to providing educational and training programs that meet demonstrated needs. Thank you for helping UWF to better serve the needs of the Greater Pensacola Community!

Last Meeting: January 22, 2008

Claudia Simmons gave us a big greeting at the door.
President Maygarden called the meeting to order. Charlie Sherrill led us with the prayer and pledge. Hugh Hamilton introduced military guests, visitors and visiting Rotarians. Hugh recognized Birthdays. Hugh shared with us Sunshine comments. The Rotary Rooters provided music and songs. Hugh recognized Birthdays President Jerry reminded members that a board meeting would be held in Baptist Towers. All members are invited to attend. Sam Goldenberg is back home and feeling better. Chris Pate was honored as a Paul Harris Fellow and received a sapphire pin for this second contribution.
Dr. Jimmy Jones, Nemours Children’s Hospital, introduced the day’s guest speaker, President and CEO Patrick Madden of Sacred Heart Health Systems. Patrick gave us an overview of what Sacred Heart Health Systems included by sharing the early history of Sacred Heart Hospital, their current systems and standings and a vision for the future.
He said that Sacred Heart along with the Navy Hospital were the firsts in Escambia County in 1915 to provide healthcare. The 12 th Avenue hospital started our with 25 beds and cost $1.50 per day. The early nursing school that began there has been transferred to Pensacola Junior College.  Today, Sacred Heart Hospital has 500 beds, adult care, women and children’s care, all clinical specialties except burns and organ transplants. Also, that Sacred Heart Hospital serves as a teaching hospital for residents.
Sacred Heart Health Systems today encompasses hospitals in Pensacola, Destin, Port St. Joe and is part of the Ascension Health System that represents 6 acute care facilities, 3 nursing homes from New Orleans to Jacksonville which consists of 15,000 employees and a 1.5 billion dollar budget. He pointed out that Sacred Heart makes quite an economic and healthcare impact in the community.
Patrick commented on the new road behind the hospital as being a federal government & state project. He said currently the hospital has 4500 employees, a 550 million annual budget. The hospital has grown from 700,000 sq ft to 1.6 million square feet. There are plans to build a new hospital in Port St. Joe. The future capital investments at $400 million include a new children’s hospital, new ICU tower, M D Anderson Cancer Center and 3 new office buildings. He is interested in positioning Pensacola in a regional perspective with headquarters in Pensacola while working with Ascension in a national perspective. Ascension is an 18 billion dollar organization. He closed with noting that Pensacola is a leader in healthcare as it is the largest industry here and is the fastest growing industry in the US. He also noted that it is a “clean industry”. He said there are many challenges but asked that the community continue to “support us”.
President Jerry thanked Mr. Madden and said that we will continue with our programs on healthcare for this month. President Jerry thanked all for their help from greeting to selling tickets, for Sunshine, Prayer, Pledge and to the Rotary Rooters.  He closed with “Rotary Shares”.

Rotary Wheels

Birthdays

Theo Baars Jr., January 31:  Pensacola, Florida, 34 years
Brian Masterson, February 3: Pensacola, Florida, 5 years
Leonardo Swartz, February 3: Brooklyn, New York, 22 years
Gary Lee, February 5: Tuscaloosa, Alabama, 2 years
Norris McMahon, February 5: Meridian, Mississippi, 3 years

Extra

The Ethics in Business Award will be presented on Monday, May 5, 2008 at our Combined Rotary Clubs of Pensacola luncheon at New World Landing. If you would like to nominate an individual from the public/non-profit sector or from the private sector, please pick up a nomination form at Tuesday’s meeting. All nominations must be received by April 4, 2008.

Last Meeting: January 15, 2008

The regular meeting of the Pensacola Rotary Club took place on Tuesday, January 15, 2008. President Jerry Maygarden called the meeting to order. R P Doyle gave the prayer and led the members in the pledge of allegiance. Sally Fox gave us Sunshine, welcomed guests and saluted those who were celebrating birthdays. Members were greeted by Mark Hannan and sold tickets by John Clark. Birthdays were celebrated by all.

President Maygarden reminded that Ed Ranelli had forms to receive nominations for the Business and Ethics Award Luncheon to be held on April 5 on Monday. Nomination forms would also be available at the entrance desk. The Board of Directors meeting will be January 24 at 7:30am at Baptist Medical Towers.  John Clark won the drawing.

President Maygarden announced that Pat Goner would be attending Rotary North and expressed how he would be missed by members.

Paul Young introduced the Speaker of the House of Representative, State of Florida Marco Rubio. Speaker Rubio has served in the house for 6 years and is the first Hispanic speaker. He is a child of parents who were Cuban exiles. He thanked President Jerry as being an early mentor for his career.

Speaker Rubio expressed his overview of the State and what his concerns are. His overview of what is happening in the state include: Our economic growth- it is stagnated by lower paying jobs, i.e. service and tourist; cost of living is a problem due to high costs; property taxes are too high; we are not addressing fuel and energy issues; and the property tax amendment that is on the ballot January 29.

He further suggested his plan to address some of these values: He believes businesses must diversify. We must diversify and attract businesses we do not have. We must explore opportunities to determine costs savings for citizens. He called for property tax reform, reform education; do something about healthcare; address energy and provide equal opportunity to everyone. He challenged everyone to be proactive and do the things to promote families; improve the care and education of children. He encouraged everyone to live their life in a way to leave this life better than the way we have it.

President Maygarden thanked Marco for the resounding talk. He wished Pat Groner well and members stood and applauded Pat for his membership in the club that began on Nov 1, 1950. All who participated were thanked. Next week’s program will continue with hospital and health topics.

Rotary Wheels

Congrats to John Tice who’s now become a bank board member.
Collier Merrill’s been busy.  He’s been renamed to a key role at UWF, and was part of the welcoming party when Presidential hopeful Giuliani visited the area.
David Stafford has his pre-election mechanics at work again, a nice convenience for many.
As the Bulletin was prepared Sam Goldenberg was still much under the doctor’s care.  His problem is unique and was a real hazard, but he’s happy to get a phone call.
See where John Cavanaugh and Company are devising a multi-million dollar fish tank for the upcoming aquarium at Maritime Park.
John Fleming’s new book called Thinking Places is off the press.
Gerry Hoewing and his new marketing team (which includes Ellis Bullock) are devising a new game for kids who visit the aviation museum.
Dale Knee and Hospice have celebrated their silver anniversary.
Roger Enzor’s been named to a State Realtors Board by Gov. Christ. 

Birthdays

George Biggs:  January 23, Pensacola, FL – in Rotary for 9 years
Al Coby:  January 23, Muskogee, OK – in Rotary for 19 years
Ron Jackson: January 23, Marianna, FL – in Rotary for 8 years
Thomas Westbrook:  January 24, New York, NY – in Rotary for 10 years
David Aronson:  January 26, Forest Hills, NY – in Rotary for 34 years
Fred Braden:  January 27, Huntington, WV – in Rotary for 10 years
Ron Martin:  January 27, Pensacola, FL - in Rotary for 8 years
Roger MacDonald:  January 29, Milwaukee, WI - in Rotary for 35 years

Extra

The Ethics in Business Award will be presented on Monday, May 5, 2008 at our Combined Rotary Clubs of Pensacola luncheon at New World Landing.  If you would like to nominate an individual from the public/non-profit sector or from the private sector, please pick up a nomination form at Tuesday’s meeting.  All nominations must be received by April 4, 2008.

Last Meeting: January 8, 2008

The regular meeting of the Pensacola Rotary Club was held on January 8, 2008. President Jerry Maygarden called the meeting to order. Martin Harwood give the prayer and led the Pledge of Allegiance. Guests were greeted by Earl Hutto. Susan O Conner sold raffle tickets.

President Jerry announced that the Ethics Awards Luncheon would be held on May 5. The regular meeting on May 6 will be cancelled. Ed Ranelli is the chair and members are encouraged to get nominations to him. RYLA is coming up and Ed Wonders has applications for nominations for high school students. Call Ed for more information.

President Jerry announced that Sam Goldenberg was in the hospital and wished him a speedy recovery.  Alan Bookman was Sunshine and wished the following Happy Birthday: Dick Sherrill, Hugh Hamilton, Julie Parker, Lee Broxton, and Joe Maloney. Members sang Happy Birthday with John Appleyard musical accompaniment.

Dr. Jimmy Jones introduced our speaker, Baptist Health Care CEO Al Stubblefield. Al spoke about the mission of Baptist Health Care “To provide superior service based on Christian values to improve the quality of life for people and communities served.” Baptist is the region’s only community-owned, not-for-profit health care system and has been serving the community since 1951. He explained that he has 11 active boards and 107 board members. Also, that Baptist is the largest non-governmental employer in the area with 5200 employees.

Al further explained the services and operation locations of the Baptist Health Care network including Baptist Hospital, Gulf Breeze Hospital, Jay Hospital, Atmore Community Hospital, Baptist Medical Parks on 9-mile Rd and in Navarre, Baptist Manor, and Lakeview Center. He spoke about the Andrews Institute and the success they are having with attracting high profile athletes. He explained how the new robotic surgery equipment at Baptist Hospital works for a variety of minimally invasive surgeries. Al also talked about the Baptist Leadership Institute which brings many of their more than 8,000 clients from all 50 states and around the world to Pensacola for training.  In closing, he explained the crucial role of the Foundation and Baptist’s continued commitment of service excellence to the community.

President Jerry presented a cup to Al. This month other area hospital top management representatives will give presentations. He thanked all who participated in the day’s events.

Rotary Wheels

See where Blaise Adams and his bank are about to go international, with ties to a Canadian giant.
Theo Baars has not been with us for some time, but it’s not from lack of interest. Theo’s had some health problems that make getting about difficult; if you think of it, drop him a card.
The Preservation Board has installed a handsome brass plaque honoring Earle Bowden, in the entry to the Bowden Building, behind the Wentworth Museum.
Don’t look now, but just perhaps Susan O’Conner and her establishments may be on the verge of going even bigger time in coffee service.
Skip Furlong had a lengthy western vacation over the holidays and escaped just before the eleven foot snowfall blanketed the area.
Those members who worked on the Veterans Park memorials were mighty upset when vandals damaged elements there. What kind of people are they who damage cemetery memorials?

Birthdays

Sally Fox:  January 17 - born in Arlington, VA - 12 years
Mort O’Sullivan:  January 19 - Pensacola, FL - 23 years
Chuck Michaels:  January 21 - Columbia, PA - 6 years

Last Meeting: December 8, 2007

The regular meeting of the Pensacola Rotary Club was held on a cool and overcast day one week before Christmas Day 2007.  This is our annual Christmas program and the room was decorated beautifully in the holiday theme courtesy of the wives of President Jerry and former President Milt – great job ladies!
 
Rotarians and their guests were greeted at the door by Martin Harwood and Bob Rogers.
 
Grover Robinson IV handled ticket sales as only a politician could – winning tickets for everyone was his pitch.
 
President Jerry called the meeting to order and led the group in the 4 way test.  Roger Vinson then stepped up to the podium and led us with a prayer and the pledge to our flag.
 
President Jerry then recapped the results of last week’s election.  New officers are Keith Bullock – President Margaret Stopp – President-Elect Ron Jackson – Treasurer Innes Richards – Secretary.  Jerry announced the continued need for bell ringers to assist in the Salvation Army Christmas fund drive which has been a tradtion of our club for a number of years.  As a show of our appreciation for the fine service delivered by the New World Landing wait staff, President Jerry asked that we deposit a small token of our appreciation in the bowl as we exit the meeting.  The club gave a rousing cheer for the fine work that this group does week in and week out.
 
Sunshine was next with the Mayor of Red Level – Charlie Blackwell.  Charlie regaled the group with 3 jokes about good ole boys from his hometown and introduced 2 visiting Rotarians and presented a banner to a representative of the Downtown Memphis club.  The list of birthday boys and girls was rather long as we will not meet for the next 2 weeks so there were 3 weeks worth of birthdays to celebrate. The group gave a rousing happy birthday you all to the late December and early January birthday gang.
 
The raffle pot amounted to $65 and was won by none other than the father of newly minted President Keith – Papa Ellis Bullock.
 
The program was introduced by Maria Butler Goldberg who reminded us of the wealth of cultural assets in our community and represented today by 3 members of the Pensacola Opera.  Tim Kennedy, who serves as Director of Community Outreach for the Opera, provided a recap of the performances scheduled for 2008 that will take place in the Okaloosa Walton Community College Performing Arts Center while the Saenger undergoes its renovation.  Bus trips are planned to take fans over from Pensacola.Tim was joined by 2 other members of the opera and the club was treated to vocals and piano accompaniment for several Christmas songs.  The club then joined in for the final Christmas carol.
 
President Jerry thanked Carol Law in absentia for coordinating the Christmas festivities and the meeting was adjourned at 1:05 PM.

Rotary Wheels

Hats off to the attendees at the Christmas luncheon and their singing. The addition of outside voices surely upped the sound of Happy Birthday.
Sherry Hartnett, Jerry Maygarden and Sandy Ray have embarked on a large task, setting up the methods for transporting 100 WWII vets to Washington to view the memorial there. Many of the vets are physically frail and need much help.
So sorry that Bill Baxter was felled by a heart attack. Bill was on the 16th hole at PCC when he was stricken. Latest report was that he’s doing well.
Morris Eaddy has his Christmas present in hand…a new saw, one which adds what he called “tonal depth.”
     
Wright Moulton’s family will be featured in the ongoing series of local family histories, this to be presented on January 24th for the Heritage Foundation.
Have you looked carefully at your new Rotary picture directory? The staff and printer did a fine job on photos. There are only a few high school pictures remaining, and the printing quality of the book is surely improved.

Birthdays

Dick Sherrill – January 10 – born in Pensacola, FL – in Rotary 46 years
Hugh Hamilton – January 11 – born in Spartanburg, SC – in Rotary 8 years
Julie Parker – January 11 – born in New Orleans, LA – in Rotary 9 years
Leigh Broxton – January 13 – born in Pensacola, FL – in Rotary 3 years
Joe Maloney – January 14 – born in Indianapolis, IN – in Rotary 4 months

Last Meeting: December 4, 2007

President Jerry called the meeting to order . . .

Father Jack Gray delivered prayer and pledge.
President Jerry . . . announcements . . . .
President Jerry opened meeting by welcoming everyone, including guests and visiting Rotarians.  Guests looking for a Rotary Club were invited to make application.
President Jerry thanks Keith Bullock for filling in.  Reminder was given that we will be helping the Salvation Army ring the bells and an sign up sheet will be at next Tuesdays meeting.
Alan Bookman introduced our newest member, Clary Ellis, who happens to be his son-in-law.
Sunshine by Roger Doyle who congratulated the NWFL Blood Bank on receiving an Impact 100 grant for a new blood mobile.
Roger introduced our two military guests, visiting Rotarians, and guests of Rotarians.  Only one Birthday this week, Glen McDonald.  Happy Birthday Glen.
$75 in the Raffle and Nancy was the winner of a beautiful Camellia plat.
Evon Emerson introduced Charles Wood, Senior VP of Economic Development for the Chamber who gave an update on the direct the Chamber is going in the area of economic development.

Presentation highlights . . .
The Chamber is working on developing a downtown Urban Tech Campus with will bring in new technology jobs.  The campus will be built on 9.2 acres of land between the Civic Center and Aragon Court.  The project will allow 500,000 SF of development which will create 1,000 new jobs with an average salary of 50,000.  The 10 year impact in new revenue equals 2.8 million in property taxes, 12.7 million in new sales taxes and 1,400 in new indirect jobs.  Momentum has already been building for this project through the High Growth Business Club, which is a regional network of Tech Businesses, and through advertising on iTen Wired.  This plan will leverage all our existing resources to bring more high tech industry to our community.

Meeting adjourned…….
President Jerry thanked Scott Paul for Greeting and Claudia Simmons for the raffle.  Next meeting is the American Red Cross of Northwest Florida. 

Rotary Wheels

Credit Sandra Smith with much hard work helping the Children’s Chorus prepare for their 2007 Christmas show. The Civic Center location presented many problems, including costs, and the organization’s directors had many unusual duties.
Hear tell that Ted Brown is developing a unique interest in historic Beck’s Lake near Cantonment.
Didjaknow that Dante Kahn’s a prize winning camellia grower?
Jim Martin and the PJC Leadership now are focusing on September 2008 when the college has its 60th birthday.
Marvin Kaiman admits that it’s true: he and his wife plan to move to Gainesville, where their son is a rabbi.
Reed Bell’s brother, “Bill,” says that he has had many, many comments on his WWII vet’s role on the WSRE-TV stories about local men and women.

Birthdays

Phil Turner - Dec. 14 - born in Russellville, Alabama. - in Rotary 2 years

Bryan McCall – December 14 – born in Pasadena, TX - in Rotary 2 years

Richard Sherrill - Dec. 14 - born in Pensacola, FL - in Rotary 8 years

Ray Jones - Dec. 15 - born in Rockingham, NC - in Rotary 6 years

Frank Creel - Dec. 17 - born in Pensacola, FL - in Rotary 16 years

Scott Barrow - Dec. 17 - born in Pensacola, FL - in Rotary 4 years

Extra

UPCOMING ROTARY EVENT
The Rotary Club of Pensacola’s Annual Christmas Meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 18, 12:15 p.m. at the New World Landing.  If you will be attending and if you will be bringing at guest to this special event, please email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).

ANNOUNCEMENT
Costa Rica Wheelchair Project - Our club has submitted grant applications to RI requesting funds to implement our wheelchair project in Costa Rica and we’re encouraged that funding will be gained. The project will provide approximately 32 specialty wheelchairs to youth and young adults in San Jose and the surrounding area.  As with our other wheelchair initiatives we’re working jointly with the Five Flags and Cantonment Rotary Clubs and are pleased as well to have the Dothan Rotary Club with us on this effort. Though travel plans are just beginning to solidify the hope is to travel to San Jose on/or about 26 Jan 08 and return on 3 Feb 08.  This is an excellent opportunity to serve and if you have an interest in traveling with us, please contact Clif Payne 850-433-8732.

Last Meeting: November 29, 2007

Alison Rogers cheerfully greeted fellow Rotarians at the door as everyone tried to shake off the post-Thanksgiving turkey hangover.
President-elect Keith Bullock kicked the meeting off as President Jerry was sailing the seven seas and was absent. Nancy Maloy lead all in the pray and pledge. The club will be celebrating with a Holiday Party on 18 December so be sure to sign up if you will be bringing a guest.
An unknown amount of raffle money went to Red Level Alabama’s most famous resident – Charlie Blackwell. Now he has a little Christmas money to spend.
Margaret Stopp was so excited to fill in as Sunshine that she forgot to bring the humorous jokes … she did however recognize a record nine birthdays with a combined 155 years in the club (which is almost as long as the chicken for lunch had been cooking).
Jack Nobles introduced the program: The NW Florida Zoo. Jack introduced Chuck Emling, chairman of the board for the Zoo, who brought the club up to speed on the Zoo’s history and other details. The Zoo sits on 50 acres of land and was sold to the Zoological society in 2004 and is the third most visited attraction in the area. It is a 501(c)3 entity and one of the few zoos in the country not subsidized by government or large corporate sponsors. In fact, there are only 2000 zoos across the county and at least 40% of them are receiving significant financial support. The Zoo really hasn’t recovered financially or from an infrastructure standpoint since Ivan and the other storms plus is building its fund raising efforts for zero as well. They have also suffered some bad publicity from the recent deaths of two animals. Danyelle Lantz has been brought on as Ex. Director and went on to describe the various initiatives underway to meet the financial goals the board has set in place. They have raised $700K of the $1M needed to keep the operations solvent and desire to improve the overall customer experience of the patrons by improving the exhibits, increasing staff professionalism and overall customer service. The Zoo attracts 150,000 visitors last year including 30,000 students and wishes to expand upon its educational programs as well. They hope to share in a portion of the local bed tax, seek out government grants, have four major fund raisers a year, gain efficiency through streamlining operations, and bring back the botanical gardens. And just by selling the land to the government the Zoo would be at a breakeven cost standpoint – so that is an option in discussion. Danyelle’s contact info: 324.0480 and email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address). We adjourned at 1:04PM.

Rotary Wheels

Credit Sandra Smith with making a meaningful presentation at the fall meeting of the International Network of Independent Staffing Services.
Art Hufford made his return to TV last week when media folks relived the UFO sighting stories of 20 years ago.
Don’t miss Pat Madden’s giant Christmas Tree, on the corner of 9th Avenue and Bayou Boulevard. It’s magnificent.
Didjaknow that Rodger Doyle, John Cavanaugh and Milton Usry are all board members for the Pensacola Symphony?
When the Rooters perform December 11th they’ll be bringing a light side to the holidays…with some songs you may never have heard.
John Cavanaugh and John Appleyard had a turkey time treat when ESPN aired the University of Delaware’s triumph in Phase One of the NCAA Division IA playoffs.
Sam Goldenberg’s appeal for aid to those in need for Manna and turkeys paid big dividends. He’s still receiving checks.

Birthdays

Glenn McDonald, December 7, Pensacola FL, in Rotary for 33 years

Extra

Costa Rica Wheelchair Project - Our club has submitted grant applications to RI requesting funds to implement our wheelchair project in Costa Rica and we’re encouraged that funding will be gained. The project will provide approximately 32 specialty wheelchairs to youth and young adults in San Jose and the surrounding area.  As with our other wheelchair initiatives we’re working jointly with the Five Flags and Cantonment Rotary Clubs and are pleased as well to have the Dothan Rotary Club with us on this effort. Though travel plans are just beginning to solidify the hope is to travel to San Jose on/or about 26 Jan 08 and return on 3 Feb 08.  This is an excellent opportunity to serve and if you have an interest in traveling with us, please contact Clif Payne 850-433-8732.