At a joint meeting with the Acton-Boxborough Rotary Club on March 16th we had a wonderful guest speaker, Alexandra DePalo, executuive director of Open Table food pantry in Maynard. Our club has been very active in supporting Open Table by volunteering every Tuesday to cook meals. We have also organized many food drives throughout the years and are currently partnering with the Acton-Boxborough Rotary Club to collect personal care items which are not covered by SNAP programs.
Our two clubs also applied for a matching grant from Rotary District 7910 in support of Open Table. Each club contributed funds raised by our members as part of the grant. At our meeting we presented Alexandra with a check for $5,000 to help defray the cost of personal care items which they provide for their clients More and more people are turning to food pantries as the supplemental funding programs associated with the pandemic are ending. Open Table’s mission is to end hunger in our local community by providing healthy food in ways that respect the dignity and diversity of those served. Rotary's contributions go a long way to help with their mission and we look forward to partnering with other Rotary Clubs in the District for future fund raising efforts and food drives.
The Concord & Acton-Boxboro Rotary Clubs have joined forces to collect personal care items for Open Table in Maynard. These necessary items not covered by SNAP benefits so Open Table purchases them for the families they serve. We are collecting Diapers in sizes 3,4,5,6, baby wipes, laundry detergent, dish soap, toothpaste and shampoo. Your donations can be dropped off at the following locations
Coldwell Banker- 11 Main St Concord
Concord Teacakes- 59 Commonwealth Ave, West Concord
Frame-ables- 111 Thoreau St. Concord
Middlesex Bank- 64 Main St. Concord
Minuteman Man Arc- 1269 Main St. West Concord
Extra Steps Pediatric Therapies Program- 222 Main St Acton
Keller Williams- 200 Baker Ave. suite 205 Concord
Enterprise Bank- 340 Great Rd Acton
Spirits Liquor at Maynard Crossing Maynard (next to market basket)
On Saturday January 28th our Concord Rotary Club joined with the Rotary Clubs of Bedford and Merrimack Valley to help the Sleep in Heavenly Peace non-profit organization build beds. We had over 25 people helping in two shifts. 43 headboards for 23 ½ beds were built. These beds are built for children who would otherwise be sleeping on the floor. We first learned of this volunteer opportunity from one of our past Concord Rotarians, Chris Alphen. Chris is the President of the Middlesex County Chapter and he, along with his team, work tirelessly to make sure these beds are provided to any child in need. Rotarians are always happy to get together to support other non-profits that truly make a difference like Sleep in Heavenly Peace. We also have a lot of fun while we are volunteering. Check out our photo album to see me more pictures.
We were very happy to welcome Rotarian, John Nanni from Middletown Deleware to our January 5th meeting. John is a polio survivor who joined the Rotary Club of Hamilton in October, 2010 and transferred to the MOT Rotary Club in Middletown, DE in September, 2013. He was appointed to Rotary District 7510's PolioPlus Committee in 2011 and upon his move to DE, he was appointed to the Rotary District 7630 Polio Plus Chair serving all 40 Rotary Clubs in Delaware & Eastern Shore Maryland. John gives Polio/Post-Polio talks to Rotary Clubs throughout the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. Rotary International has long been active in the fight to eradicate Polio. You can learn here about the work Rotary does to distribute Polio Vaccines throughout the world.
It’s a party! Our Rotary Holiday Party in person again! We gathered at the Colonial Inn, where we enjoyed the beautiful holiday setting. Official business included the awarding of Paul Harris Fellowships to Steve Kirk and Jeanne Amocida. Jeanne A. and Richard Warren received official recognition for their devoted (and delicious) work for Open Table, Our singing skills were, well, fairly OK…thanks for the song sheets, Hilary. Jean Goldsberry introduced a movie quiz…”If a movie were being made about you, what would it be called and what star would play you?” Great ice breaker! With some very amusing answers. We enthusiastically applauded our long-time waiter James, who gratefully accepted a cash gift from the Club. We took our prizes, candy favors and full hearts as we bid farewell, singing the traditional Auld Lang Syne. (See Holiday Party 2022 Photo Album in right hand column)
Great meeting Dec. 8 held in person at Concord Work Space and via our standby ZOOM. We honored retiring Concord Police Chief Joseph O’Connor, recognizing him for his service to the community and his devotion as a member of the Rotary Club of Concord. Sharon Spaulding and Karl Kussin presented Joe with a certificate of appreciation and a Rotary banner. Eric Boguslawski was inducted as our newest member. And speaker Andres Joslin, a 67 year-old tree climber, naturalist, and artist from Carlisle, held us breathless as he recounted his adventures from learning recreational tree climbing to becoming a professional arborist and a go-to rescuer of cats and fledgling owls. A fun-packed Rotary event!
It's a tradition! We meet jointly with Bedford prior to our "Thanksgiving football game." CCHS no longer plays Bedford on Thanksgiving but we love getting together. Bedford Rotarians came to our new meeting place and we had a ball, with lots of laughs, fines, and a special presentation via Zoom from Chris Alphen about Sleep in Heavenly Peace's bed building project. Our clubs have worked together on several important projects including Open Table, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, and Habitat for Humanity. District Governor, Victor Tom from Bedford along with many other area "dignitaries" from Bedford and Concord added to the Rotary energy and we look forward to seeing one another again soon. Group photo of in-person and Zoom attendees by Christine Pinney.
Concord Rotarians use their cooking skills to feed the hungry. Here are John Arena and Richard Warren with a few of the turkeys they prepared for Open Table. On another day, the team of Karl and Sarah Kussin, Helen Halloran, Jeanne Armocida and John Arena created these hearty casseroles.
At Rotary's 2022 Spring Pops a prized auction item was having a team plant 200 daffodils in the winner's yard. So, on an unusually warm Sunday, the Rotarians arrived at June Grace's home to carry out the promise. Here they are: Richard Warren, Hillary Taylor, Sharon Spaulding, June Grace, and Therese Oliver. Master Gardeners!
The Interact Club of Concord Carlisle Regional HS held a very successful fundraiser at Verrill Farm on Sat., Nov. 5. Children stopped by to get their faces painted, to spin the wheel for prizes, to buy popcorn or cider or scoop up some of the fall offerings of gourds and cookie kits. Proceeds will go to Rise Against Hunger, a volunteer-driven organization that packages meals of dehydrated foods to distribute to people in need around the world.
On October 6 the Rotary Club of Concord happily inducted three new members: Nadia Nedelcheva, VP at Enterprise Bank, Matt Lazowski, Senior Loan Officer at Fairway Independent Mortgage Corp., and Therese Oliver, Real Estate Broker/Agent at Keller Williams Realty Boston Northwest. Welcome back Therese, and welcome Nadia and Matt.
Thanks to Ingrid and Jeanne, on Sept. 10 the Rotary Club of Concord sponsored a booth at Concord's Ag Day, a once a year farmers’ market celebrating local agriculture by showcasing Concord farms and local produce. The Rotary balloons made a hit with the kids and folks stopped by to ask, "What is Rotary?" A beautiful September Saturday!
On Sunday, September 11, 2022 the Rotary Club of Concord held its annual Al Filipov Award ceremony at One Concord Farms. As in past years, we honored our first responders who sacrifice each day for the protection and safety of our community. Concord Fire Chief Tom Judge presented Firefighter Christopher Hunter of the Concord Fire Department with the Al Filipov Award for Courage and Service and Police Chief Joseph O’Connor presented Sergeant Jeffrey Young with an Al Filipov Award for Courage and Service. A donation to the Shriners Children’s Hospital, Hunter’s designated charity, was made in the Concord Fire Department’s name. A donation to Autism Speaks, Young’s designated charity, was made in the Concord Police Department’s name. Family, friends, Rotarians and fellow firefighters and police enjoyed the reception in the beautiful outdoor setting.
District 7910 Governor Victor Tom made his official visit to our club at Verrill Farm on August 25. His plans for an “Imaginative” year ahead sound challenging and delightful. Doesn’t he just convey the joy of Rotary?
It’s history…. the Rotary Club of Concord’s 34th Annual Thomas R. Huckins Memorial Golf Tournament. Many thanks to our Platinum and Friend sponsors (click on their logos to the right to visit their sites) and our Tee and Green Sponsors, as well as those donors who sponsored Veterans to play. On a beautiful, warm August day golfers, volunteers and Rotarians once again met the challenge of raising funds for scholarships while enjoying a fabulous day at the course. See our photo album below and plan to come next year.
On July 7 our speaker, Yevgen Sautin from the State Department spoke to us about current international affairs, including the war in Ukraine. Sautin is desk officer in the office of Russian Affairs. He previously served in Shanghai, China as a consular officer. Among his many degrees are a PhD in modern Chinese History from Cambridge, MA in International Relations from U. of Chicago and BA in History and Economics from the U. of Florida. Club members asked many salient questions to wind up this very informative session.
We were excited to welcome Julia Rayberg back as our speaker on July 21. Julia is Co-founder of Worthy Village, a 501c3 non-profit organization with a mission to build pathways out of poverty for women and children in Guatemala by providing economic opportunity, healthcare, and education. Julia’s slide show and commentary brought us up to date on the outstanding, life-enhancing work the organization is doing, including a clean water initiative, health and hygiene education, a wellness center, food security, dental clinics, wheelchair and walker projects, green playgrounds and more. Our own Andrea Zall and family members have gone on volunteer trips to help, and Andrea sells artisan products created by Guatemalan women in her Frame-ables gallery with 100% of the proceeds going to Worthy Village.
A beautiful day, a beautiful booth, lots of family fun on a June Saturday in Concord. It was our first appearance at the Stow Street Block Party, a festive event sponsored by the Concord Recreation Department. Concord Rotarians enjoyed meeting neighbors as they stopped by the Rotary tent to chat, get a temporary tattoo, a Rotary balloon, a frisbee, or a brochure. We had new banners, new literature, information about Rotary's response to the Ukraine crisis, and more. Our trusty banner with photos of our many activities served as a backdrop for the display. Check out more pictures in the Photo Album below on this page.
Jennifer Johnson, Executive Director of Gaining Ground, spoke at our hybrid weekly meeting May 19. Gaining Ground, a nonprofit organic farm on Virginia Road in Concord, grows organic vegetables and fruit with the help of several thousand community volunteers. (Rotarians have worked in the fields and held meetings onsite there.) Gaining Ground donates all of the fresh food to area meal programs and food pantries including Open Table in Maynard. (Visit Gaining Ground’s website to see the long list of places where they send produce.) Their agricultural methods, including no-til farming and covered fields, support sustainability. Gaining Ground began in 1994 and over the years has increased its yield from 2500 pounds of produce at the start to 127,000 pounds in 2020. It is an important community resource for many food-insecure families and an inspiring demo of a farming/hunger relief model.
The Rotary Foundation, a charitable not-for-profit organization, is leading an international effort to provide emergency medical supplies and goods in Ukraine. Over $14 million in donations from around the globe have been made to the Foundation’s Disaster Relief Fund. Rotary Districts are now able to apply for a $25,000 or more Disaster Relief Grant. No match is required from clubs or districts.
The Rotary Club of Concord is a member of District-7910. Working directly with Rotary clubs in Ukraine, the District-7910 leadership applied for and was awarded a $25,000 grant to purchase medical supplies which have been shipped to Rotarians in Ukraine for distribution. District-7910 is applying to the Rotary Foundation for another $25,000 Medical Aid grant. Some of the medical equipment needed:
External Fixators: External stabilizing frame forbroken bones. (Metal pins or screws are placed, through small incisions in the skin and muscle, into the bone. The pins or screws are attached to a stabilizing frame to hold the broken bones in proper position.) $2,400 per Sterile Field Kit
Tactical Medical Backpack: Comprehensive medic kit, including backpack$1,500 contents and Backpack
Donations may be made to the Concord Rotary Charitable Endowment, a 501C3 tax exempt organization. Click on DONATE in the top banner.
Carlisle is rebuilding a playground, The Castle Playground to be exact. It will be a multi-generational, fully accessible area. The money has been raised and the community is ready to do some hands-on construction. That is where the Rotary Club of Concord comes in. There will be build days September 8-11 and 20-25. With our experience at Habitat for Humanity Concord Rotarians are ready to help. Stay tuned. https://www.castleplaygroundproject.com
Dinny McIntyre outlined plans for a new weekly print and online newspaper for Concord MA. Well on its way to becoming a reality, the publication will be delivered free of charge to every Concord MA household. Titled The Concord Bridge, it will be ready for mail distribution this fall, and online sooner than that. Watch for it!
At our Jan. 20 meeting Kim Trainor, Director of Development of Habitat for Humanity of Greater Lowell, presented an update regarding the progress on the renovation of the two-family home at 30 Main Street in West Concord. The Rotary Clubs of Concord and Bedford have held two “build days” at the house. The Rotary Club of Concord designated Habitat as the recipient of proceeds from its April 2020 Pops, unfortunately cancelled due to Covid. Despite Covid, Kim reported building has gone smoothly, with many community volunteers, including “sweat equity” put in by the families who will be moving into the home. Dedication is slanted for May. Due to the dramatic rise in building material costs, Habitat needs an additional $25,000 to complete the project. And, there is an opportunity for Habitat to build another home in West Concord, on Commonwealth Avenue, at an estimated cost of $200,000 to $250,000. Concord Rotarians are eager to help, and have again designated Habitat as recipient of their fundraising through this year’s Pops, scheduled for April 8. Spread the word! Be a sponsor. Help solve the housing crisis for underserved families in our area. And thanks Kim, for keeping us up to date.
Christine Pinney, Rotary District Chair of RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards), and member of the Rotary Club of Bedford, gave a sparkling account of the ins and outs of RYLA. With an assist from committee member Bob Dowd, she enumerated the many ways the 3-day RYLA conference expands the leadership potential of high school sophomores. The program includes a variety of challenges and sessions, which allow students to learn about themselves and others. They engage with small and large groups in a program created by student input. Bob noted the close relationship of Interact to RYLA. The 2022 session will be held June 24, 25, and 26 at Fitchburg State College. Each club is limited to sending 10 students at a cost of $300 per student. In all, there will be 200 students and many volunteers attending this “life-changing” event.
Taylor Donaldson, Intern and Volunteer Program Manager at the International Institute of New England (IINE) in Lowell, MA gave a very timely introduction to the work this agency is doing to help resettle Afghan refugees relocating to the area. Through her narrative and slide presentation, we learned of the many services IINE provides and how we may help. IINE staff secures and sets up apartments, greets clients at the airport, administers cash assistance, and connects clients to services. They provide classes to teach English, and help with employment services and job skills training. Their legal staff assists clients with green cards, citizenship, family reunification and more. Already 60,000 evacuees have arrived in US, with the number expected to reach 95,000. Locally, most Afghan families settle in Lowell where there is already a substantial Afghan population. Taylor answered many thoughtful questions and suggested individuals help through a variety of volunteer and advocacy opportunities as well as providing financial support. Learn more at https://iine.org.
At Rotary’s December 16 Zoom meeting, extreme climber and West Concord native Jim Davidson related his experiences conquering many of the world’s highest peaks, including those in Nepal, Bolivia, Alaska, Ecuador, Mexico, and Tibet. Jim has published two books. The first, The Ledge, relates his experience descending Mount Rainier when a hidden snow bridge collapsed beneath his feet, taking him and his friend into a cavern where they were buried by snow. His friend did not survive but Jim was able to climb the ice walls to safety. The second, The Next Everest, chronicles his survival of a 7.8-magnitute earthquake that released avalanches destroying his escape route, trapping him at 20,000 feet. A helicopter rescued him and his team after two days. A 1980 graduate of CCHS, Davidson’s background is in geology and environmental science. His comfort with heights began when as a boy he worked at his Dad’s painting company. Thanks to Jim’s talk and excellent photos, we left the meeting informed and inspired.
On December 9 The Nature Connection's Executive Director Kimberly Simmons introduced Concord Rotarians to the organization's programs and successes. The traveling program is headquartered in the Umbrella on Stow Street but carries out its activities in many towns beyond Concord. The Nature Connection's mission is to improve the wellbeing of individuals and communities through the therapeutic use of nature. Their staff and volunteers bring nature to those who have limited access to the outside world. For example, taking animals to assisted living sites, plants to nursing home residents, " nature" to hospitals, residential schools, at-risk youth programs, special needs facilities and Alzheimer's care programs. We wanted to learn more and will do so by visiting The Nature Connection's website and FB page.
Concord Rotarian Amanda Alphen traveled on a mission to the Dominican Republic (DR) with A Hand Up Group (HUGS) founded by Concord Rotarian Mario Matos . Sharing some enlightening photos, Amanda highlighted her experience working among the Haitian refugees forced to flee Haiti for a better life in DR. Among the many ways HUGS offers a hand up is to distribute food to families who desperately need it, and to build houses. Mario, a skilled tradesman, teaches the Haitians construction skills so that they can earn a living and even start their own businesses. Mario and a team of HUGS volunteers undertake several mission trips a year, and Amanda encouraged those interested in helping to find more information on HUGS Facebook page.
Hands Up Group , Rebuilding, Refreshing, Restoring Hope
Back in 2012, Ingrid Detweiler brought the opportunity to support the Kenya Water Project to the Rotary Club of Concord, having learned about the dire need for water and better hygiene from Martina Amoth, a citizen of Kenya who received two Partners in Peace scholarships from P.E.O. International to study for her PhD at the University of MA, Amherst. P.E.O. is a women’s organization dedicated to supporting women’s education.
Partnering with the Kenyan Rotary Club of Nairobi Parklands, the Concord Rotary Club secured a grant of $35,000 from the Rotary International Foundation, leading to a number of wells and water harvesting projects in the Kisumu region of Kenya.
Martina shared that COVID was especially challenging for the Kenyan people, because the simple act of washing one’s hands was just not possible in areas where a family of five shared a single glass of water daily, and the cost of water was prohibitive to the average Kenyan. In areas with Rotary wells, the number of COVID cases and the mortality rates were lower – literally the wells saved lives.
Martina emphasized that though the investments were made in 2012, the wells continue to serve their communities to this day, and make a huge difference in the lives of the people in this area. She observed that even the smallest gifts, together, brought positive change.
Beautiful sunshine lit the workspace November 5 when Concord and Bedford Rotarians volunteered at Habitat for Humanity's construction site in Concord. Here is Rotarian Richard Warren at the saw, with Peter Mahler in front of the siding that he and Noel Choquetter are installing.
On Oct. 21 Rotarians delved into the many programs offered by the Umbrella Arts Center when Executive Director Jerry Wedge spoke at the meeting. Using a slide show, he introduced Umbrella's arts education, arts in the environment, performing arts, studio arts and the art gallery.The beauty and utility of the remodeled building supports many areas of art. There are two theaters, a ceramics studio, outdoor installations, arts and the environment, a sponsored artist in residence, a summer camp, three newly constructed Makerspace labs -- workshop, fabrication, and digital and numerous classes and workshops. There is no better way to appreciate the scope of Umbrella's mission than to visit the building and study its website, theumbrellaarts.org.
On Oct. 7 Simon Cataldo, Founder and Adrian Heneveld, Executive Director of Harlem Lacrosse–Boston told us about this highly effective program, launched in 2016. Harlem Lacrosse is a “school-based non-profit organization that changes the life trajectories of youth through daily wrap-around academic support, mentoring, leadership training, college readiness career exploration, admissions counseling and lacrosse instruction.” The program offers more than lacrosse, although the love of lacrosse engages students who would otherwise drop school. Students, both boys and girls, come from Mattapan, Dorchester, East Boston, and Chelsea. Cataldo grew up in Concord where he attended public school. Thanks to his involvement, Concord-Carlisle Youth Lacrosse is an important Harlem partner, sharing tournaments and clinics at CCHS and in Boston. Concord Rotarians found Simon and Adrian’s talk and slide show inspiring.
On September 30 we learned what “CRCE” stands for. Steve Levitsky and Elda Kalivioti presented an overview of the Concord Rotary Charitable Endowment, the 501(c)(3) charitable, non-profit organization founded by the Rotary Club of Concord in 1989, which can accept tax-deductible donations. The Endowment annually distributes a percentage of the average value of its previous three year’s ending investment value to foster, promote and achieve local, national and international charitable and educational programs. The distribution is directed by the members of the Rotary Club of Concord through its Board of Directors. Thanks to Steve and Elda the presentation generated greater understanding and lively discussion. Photo: President Karl volunteering at a CRCE project: Habitat for Humanity in Concord.
We were honored to host District 7910 Governor Cliff Rober at our September 23 meeting. At the tent at Verrill Farm we enjoyed seeing one another in person and hearing Cliff’s talk about what’s ahead for Rotary this year. Cliff, a member of the Rotary Club of Bedford, presented President Karl with a Rotary backpack bearing this year’s motto: Strive to Change Lives.” Everyone present received a pin engraved with the year’s logo. Sharon Spaulding and Andrea Zall were presented with Paul Harris awards. President Karl tried valiantly to keep the flag from blowing away. A momentous meeting. As they say, “It was one for the books.”
Sarah Robertson alerted us to a teacher's dilemma....lack of supplies for students in a third grade classroom. Sarah was a student teacher in the classroom at STEM Academy in Lowell. Rotarians rallied to donate the needed items displayed here. Best of luck Sarah, as you study at UMass Lowell to become a teacher. You are entering a noble profession.
On Sept. 11, 2021 the Rotary Club of Concord honored Concord’s firefighters and police officers with the Al Filipov Award for Outstanding Service and Courage at an outdoor service at Spaulding Management’s headquarters A well respected Concordian and Rotarian Alexander Filipov died in the crash of American Airlines Flight 11 in New York City 20 years ago on Sept. 11, 2001.
The program opened with the Reverend Dr. John Lombard’s reflection on the significance of 9/11 (Patriot Day) as a day of service and remembrance. He defined courage as “the ability to do something that frightens others”, noting that this concept separates those we honor today that stand in harm’s way when tragedy strikes a community and a nation.” Lombard concluded with the observation that all Concord’s first responders handle crises with a thoughtful command structure, organization and dignity. “Stronger Together.”
(Please continue to "Read More", then check out the photos in the photo library on the front page.
At Concord’s AG Day September 11, the Rotary Club of Concord spread the word about its role in installing the water fountain and, in partnership with the Garden Club of Concord, new landscaping at the Veteran’s Memorial and the USS Concord Bell Park. The installation marks the completion of Rotary projects at this site including the installation of the USS Concord Bell, a memorial to Medal of Honor recipient Lt. Thomas J. Hudner and upgrades to the area. At the booth, Rotary displayed many of its local and international projects.
Following the Rotary Club's 9.11 20th anniversary presentation of the Al Filipov Award to Concord's Fire and Police Departments, Rotarians headed to town to set up the tent and booth by The USS Concord Bell Park on Main Street in Concord Center.
With the Rotary-funded water fountain behind, and surrounded by the lovely flowers and landscaping the Concord Garden Club had installed, Rotarians spoke with many members of the community looking to learn more about Rotary.
Past President Jean Goldsberry chairs the Concord Commission on Disabilities. Who better to tell us about it? The Committee was established "to promote the inclusion and integration of persons with disabilities in the activities, services and employment opportunities of the community." Past projects include review of parking facilities at Walden Pond, input to MBTA about inaccessibility at Concord train stop, and review of Lowell Road Boat Launch and CCHS fields, and renovations at First Parish Church. These examples are but a few of the many projects undertaken by the Committee. Currently they are working with the library to assure accessible handicap parking tor the new facility and with the town to assure safety and accessibility to Junction Park as the Bruce Freeman Trail increases bike traffic there. The Committee works to increase awareness of disability issues, and encourages the provision of clearer info for people with cognitive impairments. Thanks, Jean for telling us about this important work.
Talk about talent. Three representatives from a robot-building and competition team, “Mechanical Advantage 6328” awed us with their enthusiasm and expertise at our August 19 Zoom meeting. Littleton students Ann and Michele and their mentor Elizabeth described how this robotics competition team for students ages 13-18 builds and programs robots for regional and national competition. Their video gave us a glance at an actual competition in which robots tried to outdo each other in a scramble over tennis balls. The team had built the robot from scratch using multiple tools and AI. Mechanical Advantage 6328 is not restricted to Littleton members, but welcomes interested students from all areas. For more information, visit their webpage and Facebook page.https://www.thebluealliance.com › team › 6328
Kids at the Boys and Girls Club of Assabet Valley enjoyed another Rotary-sponsored outdoor game day August 10. Games ranging from Nerf Football to Ring Toss, with an indoor Obstacle Course presented exciting challenges. The kids loved it and so did the Rotarians. Take a look at Jeanne's photo album on our Home Page to see some of the action.
It was an “inning” not an outing as the heat and threat of thunderstorms moved the gathering inside to Hilary Taylor’s air conditioned home. The lobsters, corn on the cob, and salads tasted just great anyway. We enjoyed seeing one another after Zooming for so very long. Hilary and Steve Levitsky received Paul Harris Awards and new member Jeanne Amocida received her Rotary pin and 4-way test. We missed Art Taylor who was in the hospital following a fall. We sang Happy Birthday to him while Hilary sent him a live video. Art missed the yummy cake that we ate in his honor. Thank you Hilary for your generous hospitality.
On Aug. 6 Phil Kenny, President of Concord Independent Battery, was introduced as our speaker by John Arena. We all know the history of April 18, 1775 and have seen and heard the cannons, but few knew their history. In 1804 the MA senate raised by voluntary enlistment the Concord Artillery and provided it with two brass field pieces inscribed with the names John Buttrick and Isac Davis. When the cannons were worn by firing, they were replaced with new ones, engraved with the original inscription. The Concord Independent Battery Association, formed in 1947, financed the erection of a new Gun House in 1960 in Heywood Meadow. Of interest: the horses ridden by the Battery on April 19 a are provided by Verrill Farm Stables. Thanks Rotarian Steve Verrill.
Is the Rotary Club of Concord’s August 30th Golf Tournament at the Concord Country Club sneaking up on you? There is still time to register to play, sponsor a wounded veteran to play or contribute to the silent auction. Click on GOLF in the banner above to learn all the details. This event will help Rotary continue to award scholarships so pitch in.
Rotarians enjoyed the return of Dan Holin, creator of Second Chance Cars, a nonprofit car donation program. Second Chance Cars provides affordable cars to Massachusetts low-income veterans, healthcare workers, and returning citizens (those reentering society from incarceration) so they can obtain living-wage jobs and reach their full potential. They match used vehicles with someone who really needs one, and give the donors 100% of their car’s retail value as a tax deduction. They receive referrals from social service agencies to help them select car-ready candidates. Vocational schools and automotive specialists refurbish the cars. Recipients pay $900 for their cars via a zero-interest, one year loan that helps build their credit. There are many heart-rendering videos about Second Chance recipients on Vimeo...take a look.
Dan Holis talks about Second Chance Cars on July 29
Thanks to Rotarian Chris Alphen and his non-profit organization, "Sleep in Heavenly Peace", two young boys will no longer have to sleep on a couch in their basement bedroom. Concord Rotarians Hilary Taylor, Dave Robertson and Karl Kussin skillfully assembled the bunkbed, complete with sheets, pillows and quilts. June Grace stood around giving advice and taking photos. All agreed it was a privilege to be able to help.
Eighty girls and boys along with their CITs and staff enjoyed a Rotary-sponsored summer field day at the Boys & Girls Club of Assabet Valley on July 20. Ring toss, bocci, badminton, kite flying, and more kept everyone moving despite the 90 degree heat. We love the opportunity to "play" with these kids and will do it again in August. Sharon Spaulding and Dave Robertson have some unique activities planned. Look at this orderly line-up as the boys and girls return to the club house!
Members of the Rotary Club of Concord and the Rotary Club of Bedford pitched in to help renovate Habitat's two-family house on Main Street in West Concord. July heat did not slow the progress and our team turned out some laudable work. We look forward to another Build Day November 5, 2021
On July 22 the Rotary Club of Concord inducted Amy Capofreddi and Rebecca Lynch as members of the Club and of Rotary International. We are excited about their intent to share their skills as we embark on humanitarian projects.
Amy is Director of Development at Newbury Court, and was Executive Director of Gaining Ground following a career in development and marketing at Two Ten Footwear, Nashoba Brooks School, Babson Capital Management and Fidelity Management Trust Company. She is interested in Rotary’s emphasis on “Hunger and Poverty” and “Scholarships and Education.”
Rebecca is Director of Development at the Okoa Project, a non-profit that provides emergency transportation to healthcare in geographically neglected areas, notably in Ghana. Among her previous positions she served as Executive Director of the Boys and Girls Club of Assabet Valley and a writer for the Kabbalah Centre and Komodo Health. She is interested in Rotary’s emphasis on “Water, Health and Sanitation” and “Scholarships and Education.”
Rotarian Mario Matos held us in awe as he recounted his journey to become the founder and president of “A Hand Up Group Inc.” Starting as a participant in Global mission trips, his dedication to helping others grew to a point where he himself now organizes groups to build and repair housing, principally in the Dominican Republic. Mario described the plight of Haitian refugees working the Dominican’s sugar fields as akin to slavery. A expert tradesman, Mario teaches skills that will free them to work in industry. The Group also addresses food insecurity so prevalent in the area. A Hand Up Group will accept corded power tools and cash donations to support its work. Mario will be leading a trip in the foreseeable future and invited interested volunteers to get in touch with him.
Jeanne Armocida received an enthusiastic welcome as she joined the Rotary Club of Concord on June 3, 2021. We are excited to tap into Jeanne's rich experience in marketing, sales and communications for prestigious non-profit organizations including years in Kenya with USAID and Ireland with EuroCom. She is a long-time foster parent, having hosted over 60 children. Jeanne is now a real estate professional with Coldwell Banker. And a proud Rotarian.
Our speaker on May 27 was Kim Trainor, Director of Development at Greater Lowell Habitat for Humanity. Trainor updated us on the progress at the Habitat house being built on Main Street in West Concord. With Habitat's mission in mind, two families have been chosen to purchase the Concord house. The house is reconfigured to be a two-family dwelling. As Trainor pointed out, Habitat provides a hand up, not a hand out. Families who purchase Habitat homes qualify for a mortgage at 30% of homeowners income, and partner with Habitat by providing up to 450 hours of sweat equity, a down payment of $1,000 and participation in financial training. Community volunteers' work on the construction has already begun. Out Club, along with the RC of Bedford will undertake two build sessions. Stay tuned for more details.
On May 6 the Rotary Club of Concord inducted two new members, Amanda Alphen and Karen Silva. They are now fully active members of Rotary International as well as Concord. Chris Alphen sponsored them as Corporate Members of Dolphin Insulation Inc. Both have actively worked on many Rotary projects and we are pleased to have them as members of the club. Amanda is Chris's daughter so now we have a father-daughter team on board. It will be a special day when we can meet them in person.Photo: Here they are cooking with Rotary at Open Table.
Two members of the CCHS Interact Club joined the regular meeting of the RC of Concord on May 13. Sofia Raffel is President of the Club and Avani Rebb is Vice President. During the year Interact has been busy despite Covid-19 restrictions, undertaking such projects as "Move with Worthy Village, Crosby's food drive for Lazarus House and a Gift basket/Sticker Sale for Operation Gratitude. Attendance at Zoom meetings numbers around 16, with 45 members active for projects. An Interact student will receive a Rotary Class Act award this year, as explained by Ann Trudeau. Both Interacters thanked the Rotary Club of Concord for its support. They emphasized the many benefits they have gained through membership in Interact, especially noting the international aspects of the organization.
Following our custom to meet together at a time close to Patriot's Day, the Rotary Clubs of Concord and Lexington met, this time on Zoom. Along with prizes for history and Patriot's Day trivia, there were many generous fines, with the total being donated to Lexington's food insecurity projects. A highlight of the meeting was speaker Michael Tougias, author of 30 books. Tougias told the story behind his book, The Finest Hours. With captivating slides, he spoke about the US Coast Guard rescue of the crew of the SS Pendleton and their daring rescue off the coast of Cape Cod. (Two oil tankers had split in half during a blizzard in 1952,) The book was made into a movie and Tougias was on set during the filming. Read the book, see the movie, peruse the reviews. Tougias tells a gripping tale.
At a Club Assembly members had an opportunity to contribute to plans for next year and beyond. Incoming president Karl Kussin prepared an agenda to spark discussion surrounding meetings, membership, fundraising/service and engagement. Among the suggestions were a preference for a dual platform meeting (in person/online) and assigning each member to procure a speaker for one meeting a year. Also of interest was an effort to expand diversity and inclusion in membership. Engagement ideas included encouraging each member to serve on at least one committee or project per year, Karl reviewed officer and committee responsibilities.
Touting Emerson Umbrella's events, and many other offerings in Concord, including businesses, non-profits, events, and sites to visit, Polly Meyer and Debbie Gilmore have created a website/newsletter/blog to promote Concord. Living Concord (livingconcord.com) covers just about everything in Concord in an informative, attractive format. Congratulations Polly and Debbie on an amazing beautiful product. We will be onboard!
Caroline Provost, Arts & Environment Program Coordinator at The Umbrella Arts Center, previewed the programs planned for Earth Day 2021 in light of the Pandemic. After reviewing some of the many outdoor activities and workshops currently available, she talked about the past and present creation of river rafts made from natural materials. Traditionally these are featured in a parade and then launched in the Concord Rive in a ceremony near the Old Manse. But not this year! The Umbrella will be holding outdoor workshops on making rafts but families will launch them on their own. Provost also previewed other cherished Concord traditions including an annual art auction and a self-guided publicArt Walk in green spaces.
Jennifer Schunemann and Cynthia Baudendistel, founders of the new, high caliber magazine, DISCOVER CONCORD, spoke about the development of the magazine, designed to acquaint visitors and residence about the many features Concord has to offer. This gorgeous publication is distributed to over 50 locations in the area, and is free, although one may subscribe for home delivery. Authors contributing to the content include local experts, professional writer and historians. For a look at the equally beautiful website, visit discoverconcordma.com.
The Rotary Club of Concord was chartered April 1, 1931. How fortunate that our weekly meeting fell on April 1, 2021. We celebrated with a great kick off! (On Zoom, a medium not available in 1931). Distinguished visitors included District Governor Diana Nestorova who presented a recognition award and Ralph Hammond, our Club Advisor, who related some tidbits from the past. We enjoyed a review of our history, an overview of our many grants and projects, and a quiz by President-Elect Karl Kussin. With the lessening of the pandemic, we plan special events for the year as we live up to our slogan, Celebrating 90 Years of Service.
Rotarians with our Minuteman friends held a Virtual Carnival February 27. We joined from many sites including seven Minuteman Arc homes. A good deal of planning, purchasing and delivering paid off as everyone enjoyed Pin the Tale on the Donkey,Get the Ball in a Square, or HowMany Cans Can you Knock Over? We sang, danced, jangled our bracelets and necklaces, showed off our prizes, and topped it all off with pizza and brownies. We're ready for the next party! Photo: A Distinguished Host, Karl Kussin, as seen on Zoom.
On March 25, 2021, Concord Town Manager Stephen Crane gave Rotarians an up-to-date view of areas of interest in the town. These included the FY21 Budget performance and the FY22 Budget preparation, the economic vitality efforts being taken, the town's COVID response, and the status of plans for the new Middle School. There were questions of course, but none that he couldn't answer!
At our March 18 meeting, Toastmasters from the area spoke about how the Toastmasters Clubs had helped them improve their communication and leadership skills. They pointed out that Rotary and Toastmasters now have a formal relationship that benefits both. There are several Toastmasters organizations in our area and Rotarians were encouraged to give them a try.
On Mar. 11 in celebration of International Women's Day, a Zoom panel of Concord Rotarians recounted early events in the Club's admission of women. Following Sharon Spaulding's introduction, the revealing and entertaining stories began with Joanie Hale's tales of her 1988 experience as the first woman in the Club. Jane Barrett and Grace McWalter also joined that year. Andy Zall followed with her story of joining in 1990. Phyllis Maurer, the second female president, followed, with Jame Barrett, President 2002 and Ann Trudeau, President.2010, offering insights into their journey as the first mother-daughter presidents. Karl Kussin recounted the climate in the Club during the early years of female membership. Carol Toomey, 3rd female Dist. Governor, spoke about the many roles she has played in RI and Camilla Vogt concluded the panel commenting on how Rotary has advanced her career through a Global Scholarship sponsored by the Concord Club. All in all, a wonderful preamble to our upcoming 90th year as a club.
The Rotary Club of Concord has donated over 1,000 disposable masks to the Council on Aging (COA). The COA packaged them with a note of gratitude to the Club along with directions on the correct use of the masks. Next distribution date is March 4. Here is Rotarian Andy Zall (r) delivering the masks to Tina Close (l) and COA Director Ginger Quarles, and Lauren Barretta , COA Assistant Director handing out masks at a drive-through event.
The Rotary Club of Concord is proud to welcome John Arena III, Mario Matos and Ryan Kauppila to our club and to Rotary International’s global community of more than 1.2 million men and women dedicated to building a better world. Each brings skill, experience and enthusiasm that will help us continue our service to the community and the world. John is Funeral Director at Dee Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Mario is owner of Super Mario Plumbing and Heating. Ryan is an analyst with Putnam Investments. We hope their experience with Rotary will be both rewarding and fun.
At Rotary's Feb. 11 meeting, Dr. Laurie Hunter, Superintendent of the Concord Public Schools and Concord-Carlisle Regional School District, spoke to us about the impact of Covid-19 on the school system and about the plans for a new Middle School. The schools have stayed in session with a hybrid model throughout the shutdown. To date there have been only 127 cases of Covid, 27 staff and 100 students, infections coming mostly from outside sources. Dr. Hunter reviewed the plans for the Middle School construction. She asked for feedback and encouraged us to spread the word to the Concord community. Those associated with the schools in some way are aware of the progress, but the general public should be aware as well. If you are a member of a group that would be interested in a speaker on the subject. please contact Dr. Hunter.
Dr. Laurie Hunter, Superintendent of the Concord Public Schools and Concord-Carlisle Regional School District
On Thurs, Feb. 4, Dr. Barry Kitch, Chief Medical Officer at Emerson Hospital, gave a comprehensive overview of Covid-19 and the ongoing efforts to contain the virus. Of particular interest, how the virus is affecting the Concord area. His talk covered the three types of testing, current treatments for active cases, and an overview of the various vaccines currently available. 2,200 Emerson Hospital employees have been vaccinated. We will now be in in Phase 2 through April, prioritizing first: individuals 75 and over, then Individuals age 65+, individuals with 2+ certain medical conditions ((only those conditions listed as at increased risk for severe illness), and/or residents and staff of low income and affordable senior housing. Many thanks to Dr. Kitch for his enlightening presentation.
“We aim above the mark to hit the mark”, a “quote from a quote” by our speaker, John Boynton, sharing inspiration from the inimitable Ralph Waldo Emerson. While narrating slides of architect’s renditions and outlines of steps forward, our Jan. 28 speaker’s enthusiasm for the expansion and renovation of the library excited everyone. The beauty and utility of the updated library attests to the foresight of the many involved in its creation. As he wrapped up his remarks, John talked of “Closing the Gap” on the building project. With a goal of $12.2 million, $10.7 million has already been raised. To learn more view the Library Corporation’s website at CFPLCorp.org where you will find a walk through video of the space. You may also email them at development@cfplcorp.org.
Rotary's Jan. 21 speaker, Philip Rosenfield, owner of the famous ice cream dessert cafe in West Concord, Reasons To Be Cheerful, introduced us to the Dewey Rosenfield Foundation, an organization Philip founded in memory of his son Matthew (known as Dewey.) The charitable foundation reflects many of Dewey's qualities and seeks to help children be successful in an academic environment with special emphasis on music and sports. The Foundation supports Scholar Athletes in its goal to assist high school athletes with academic achievement. Also on its list of partners is the Guitar Center Music Foundation (provides instruments to needy students) and the Concord Conservatory of Music. Philip answered questions about Reasons To Be Cheerful. He has opened a second cafe in Hudson and is planning one in Sudbury. Both the Foundation and Reasons To Be Cheerful have websites where you can learn more.
Philip Rosenfield and The Dewey Rosenfield Foundation
Dave Tasto, President/Owner of Assisting Hands - Boston Northwest and Eunice Bempong, RN, Clinical Nurse Liaison for Assisting Hands spoke at Rotary's Jan. 14 Zoom meeting. Dave and Eunice quoted recommendations from Dave's book that help assure a safe environment for elders. They suggested ways to make a necessary hospitalization comfortable and how to negotiate a smooth transition back home. Assisting Hands is a private-pay in-home health care agency headquartered in Bedford MA. It provides personal care and companion services, light housekeeping and cleaning, grocery shopping and errands, and meal preparation. Dave generously offered a copy of his book to each Rotarian, and due to the difficulty distributing it under Covid-19 restrictions, will provide a downloadable pdf copy to Karl Kussin who will email it to Club Members.
On Dec.10 Rotarian Steve Verrill entertained us with tales of his early experiences at the 100-year-old Verrill Farm. He peppered his commentary with lessons learned from many adventures, including a bout with Polio, competing as a youth at 4H fairs, sleeping in unheated rooms and rising super-early, delivering calfs, dealing with bullies at the railroad crossing, and attending Cornell for a degree in farm management. He told tales of dairy farming, then switching to growing produce, expanding their roadside stand to a permanent stand and rebuilding that after a fire in 2008. Thanks to Steve we appreciate the challenges facing farmers today. We are privileged to have Verrill's 200 acre farm here in Concord, where it is under an Agricultural Preservation Restriction to prevent development of the land.
At our Jan. 7 meeting, District 7910 Chair for Polio Plus Joyce Graff used her broad experience in patient advocacy to demonstrate the parallels between the current fight against the Covid-19 Pandemic and the work done to eliminate polio from the earth. Although vaccines are now available, many are declining the opportunity to be vaccinated. Over the years Rotarians have overcome resistance to vaccinations by building "communities of trust" through education and example. Now Rotary is bringing its experience and expertise to this new threat. Joyce ended her talk with a video from Rotary International. Additionally, she invited us to view a You Tube presentation of a Covid forum sponsored by her club, the Rotary Club of Brookline, featuring several highly qualified panel members. Here are the links to the videos:
At our Dec. 3 meeting, Hilary Taylor presented a most interesting demonstration on how she creates silver and gold jewelry. Shown directly from her studio, Merlin's Silver Star, 336 Baker Avenue in West Concord, Hilly crafted several pieces including a pendant, earrings and Christmas decorations. Fascinating and impressive, her technique inspired appreciation of how much skill goes into each beautiful piece. Not just an amazing Rotarian, Hilary is an amazing artist.
Brenda Gould, Ex. Dir. of Habitat for Humanity, Greater Lowell returned Nov. 5 to update us on the progress of the home Habitat is rebuilding as a two-family affordable residence in Concord. Unfortunately, due to Covid, RC of Concord's Pops/fundraiser for the home, was canceled. Brenda assured us that the project is well funded. At this point, Habitat needs to select the families before renovations can begin. Family selection will start next week. Brenda shared drawings of the project, noting that there will be a circular driveway with two parking places. If the water line to the house is more than 50 years old it must be replaced. Construction is scheduled to start in February. Due to Covid, projects have been behind schedule, as they follow strict Covid protocols.
On Nov. 12 Dara Kelly, Andrea Zall’s daughter and Paul Harris Fellow, spoke about a food security program she and a colleague have organized in her hometown of Brookline. Through the schools’ social workers, they identified local families experiencing food insecurity and organized a creative response. They started a Go Fund Me account, raised funds to purchase meals at local restaurants that were delivered to the identified families. This approach helped both the kids AND their local businesses. And they are still at it.
Dara is owner of Peapod Fitness in Brookline and holds many certifications as a fitness instructor and master trainer.
The Concord Carlisle Community Chest's Executive Director Jennifer Ubaldino showed slides of the organization's vision, mission, and core values. Fulfilling its mission to engage our community to help neighbors in need, the Chest provided $475,000 in financial support to nonprofits, town agencies, individuals and local projects during its last fiscal year. Categories of support included elder services, mental health and physical disabilities, food, health, and safety, education and "targeted requests." Ubaldino explained that a citizen group of 20 individuals reviews applications and makes recommendations for the grants given by the Chest. Currently the Chest is also involved in the Covid-related Concord Together Business Fund. The Rotary Club of Concord partners with many of the non-profits supported by the Chest.
Oct. 29th's speaker was Anke Voss, Curator of Special Collections at the Concord Free Public Library. After acquainting us with a history of the Library, and touting some of its special features, including artwork, she overviewed the impressive archives housed in the Special Collections at the library. Among them, Thoreau's Survey of Walden Pond, a manuscript of Thoreau's Walking, and 2 chapters of Alcott's Little Women. In preparing for her talk, Voss found many references to Rotary and Rotarians in Special Collections. The Library would be a safe, climate controlled place for the Rotary Club to deposit their archives, and Voss recommended storing copies of photos, important documents, programs, minutes, etc. on a hard drive for safe keeping.
Voss served as archivist for the Rotary Club she belonged to in Urbana Illinois.
Adam Stark, Chief Miscellaneous Officer at Debra's Natural Gourmet, spoke at our Oct. 22 meeting, Adam's background in biology and immunology supports his broad understanding of herbs, supplements and natural ways to strengthen one's immunity. Adam also gave a short history of the store, and what future plans for expansion are in the works. He answered many interesting questions with many interesting comments. It was an altogether engrossing presentation.
Jamie Larsen inspired Rotarians at our Oct. Zoom meeting with her talk about Generus, an organization she founded and serves as CEO. Companies engage Generus to identify the causes employees care about and then create custom volunteer projects that employees work on together, inspiring teamwork and fostering good will in the workplace. Generus has identified many causes corporate groups can serve together, now virtually, including isolated older adults, hospitalized children and homeless families. They have designed interactive online events for occasions that cannot be held in person due to Covid. Congratulations Jamie for your creativity in showing companies how to inspire their employees to work together as a volunteer team to serve a cause they care about. Thanks Chris Alphen for introducing us to Jamie.
Jamie Larsen, Helping Employees Pull Together for a Common Cause
Concord Police Chief spoke at our Oct. 8 meeting, updating us on the current state of policing in Concord in the light of recent nationwide reactions to police brutality. The Concord Police Department has received very few complaints. They are already in compliance with all recommended procedures. All Concord Police officers have bachelors or higher degrees. Since the pandemic, the Department has seen a significant rise in mental health calls, 70 so far this year in contrast to 40 for the entire previous year The increase is probably attributable to the isolation imposed by the pandemic. It is always reassuring to hear Chief O'Connor's candid remarks at our meetings. Thank you Joe
The Covid-safe 32ndThomas R. Huckins Golf Tournament combined happy golfers, jovial Rotarians and beautiful weather to make the day an absolute success. Veterans from Salute Military Golf Association and golfing friends from many areas enjoyed the careful format and went home smiling, toting winnings from the silent auction and other prizes. Rotarians were happy to see one another in person, albeit behind masks. Thanks to Karl Kussin and the Golf Committee who elected to carry on despite Covid-19. Thanks to our major sponsors and tee and green sponsors, we will be able to award scholarships next year.
Photo: A rainbow appears over the carts as Karl greets the golfers.
Our Club sponsored a Drive-In Movie, , at Verrill Farm, Friday night, Oct. 2. Fun for the whole family, beautiful night after a light rain. Thanks to Concord’s Beth Williams, the Concord Rec. Department, Verrill Farm, on-site Rotarians who greeted cars and directed parking, Steve Kirk for the Rotary video and co-sponsor Umbrella Community Arts Center for their help. And thanks to Hilary Taylor and Helen Halloran for their leadership of this project. Photo: Rotary on the Big Screen
Beth Williams, Tourism and Visitor Services Manager for Concord, spoke to the Club Oct. 1 via Zoom. Beth is calling on her rich professional background as board presidents and marketing directors to promote Concord’s many resources to Concordians and visitors alike. She is headquartered at Concord’s visitors center.
Photo: Rotarian Sharon Spaulding and Beth Williams work together to promote Concord businesses.
Good Covid-Safe Fun is coming to Concord thanks to the Rotary Club of Concord, the Umbrella, Verrill Farm and the Concord Rec. Department. It's a Drive-In Movie, Little Women, on Friday, Oct. 2 (Yikes, that's this coming Friday!) We need 8 Rotarians (or friends) to manage parking and hand out flyers. Here are a few details. Please see attached document for complete write-up.
Location: Verrill Farm Fields
Volunteers Arrive 5:00-5:30 p.m.
Cars Parked at 6:00 p.m.
Movie begins at 7:00 p.m.
There are 10 car spaces reserved for Rotarians.
Here is a link for our pre-movie video by Steve Kirk:
The Rotary Club of Concord invites you to take part in its COVID-safe 32nd annual Thomas R. Huckins Memorial Golf Tournament Monday, Sept. 21 at the Concord Country Club to benefit the Rotary Scholarship Fund and Rotary charitable projects.
The shotgun start is at 11:00 a.m. preceded by registration from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. The entry fee of $275 includes 18 holes of golf at a premier New England course, use of the putting green, golf cart, on course lunch, tournament gifts and refreshments.Mulligans will be available for purchase. There will also be a drawing for top-quality golf gear. Compete for a prize for the longest drive and closest to the pin (for men and women). And of course, take home a big prize for your hole-in-one! An early-bird special for $1,000 for a foursome expires September 10.
(Please "read more", and invite your friends to play or donate!)
On Aug. 20 Concord Rotarian Sharon Spaulding introduced “Concord Together”, a collaboration led by local landlords and business owners to focus town-wide efforts to protect, promote, and preserve our vital small business community. They support vulnerable small businesses through the COVID crisis by providing financial grants, offering marketing tools and ideas, linking to a range of resources, and encouraging town-wide support of Concord’s shops, restaurants, and tourist destinations. Joining Sharon were Jennifer Schunemann, co-founder of Discover Concord magazine, along with Rotarians Peter Mahler, Hilary Taylor, Karl Kussin, Helen Halloran and Steve Verril, each reporting on a different aspect of Concord Together. To appreciate the wide scope of this group’s efforts, visit their website, concordtogether.org and see the Aug. 20 issue of The Concord Journal.
On Aug. 13, Annalisa Campanile, new Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Club of Assabet Valley, reviewed its plans under her leadership. The facility is undergoing renovations while the building is unused due to COVID restrictions. The Lowe’s Charitable Foundation donated $50,000 to renovate flooring, kitchen, restrooms, lockers, furniture and a complete HVAC replacement. The Rotary Club of Concord, with a grant from District 7910, is underwriting the creation of a study room with computers. Annalisa overviewed the Club’s programs, many of vital importance to neighborhood families through the after school programs and other offerings. Annual membership is extremely affordable. The summer camp program usually brings in extra funds, but was cancelled this year, as have other fundraisers. Rotarians are enthusiastic about continuing our relationship with the Boys and Girls Club, and look forward to resuming our activities with the children.
Boys and Girls Club Executive Director visits Rotary via Zoom
On Aug. 6, Our Zoom speaker was Dan Holin, Executive Director of Second Chance Cars, a non-profit organization that mobilizes low income workforce members to compete for living wage jobs through affordable car ownership. Buyers of the rehabbed cars are carefully screened, take out a no-interest loan to cover the costs, and use the vehicles in their commutes to work. Often they cut many hours from their travel schedules or are able to take jobs otherwise inaccessible to them. Very inspiring.
On July 30 Rotary Dist. 7910 Governor Diana Nestorova gave us all a shot of enthusiasm when she made her official visit to the club via Zoom.. Her glowing accolades for our club were countered with interesting challenges, including setting goals with visioning, applying for a Presidential citation by meeting at least 13 of 25 goals, selling the Rotary experience to build membership, engaging younger people, and taking care of our current members. Diana introduced new programs at the District level, including "Youth of Action" programs, a partnership with Toastmasters, and a monthly event called "Open Doors with Diana." As a special surprise, Sharon Spaulding presented Chris Alphen with an award for his leadership in "Sleep in Heavenly Peace."
We are sorry to report the June 25th passing of William (Jack) E. Mattison, Jr., a loyal member of the Rotary Club of Concord for many years. Jack was an avid golfer, gardener, gourmet cook, lover of country music, road tripper, boating enthusiast and Rotarian. He prided himself on never missing a meeting. Read about Jack’s long and interesting life by viewing his obituary…. https://www.legacy.com/obituaries/name/william-mattison-obituary?pid=196477515.
At RC of Concord's July 16 Zoom meeting we enjoyed hearing from (and seeing) four of our six scholarship winners. Christina Aiello (Captain Thomas J. Hudner Jr. Scholarship) will be attending U. of Vt. to study Nursing. Christina was an honor roll student every year, belonged to the National Honor Society, and was recipient of the National Latin Award. She managed the Boys' Varsity Basketball Team, the Girls' JV Lacrosse Team, and was was a Student Athletic Trainer. ElsaCouvillon (Thomas R. Huckins Scholarship) will attend UCLA to major in biology and psychology. She received Department Awards in Science, Social Studies, World Languages, English and Math. She captained the lacrosse team, played on the varsity soccer team and was captain and player coach of the Pink Ladies Futsal Club. JebMorgan (William L. Eaton Scholarship), will attend U. of Vt. to study International Relations. Jeb's senior year international issues class confirmed his desire to pursue this topic in college. He captained the Men's Fencing Team to two state championships, winning Bronze and Gold medals in 2019. CarsonDetweiler (Interact Scholarship) will attend Purdue University to study engineering. Carson was an Interact member during all four years at CCHS, attended RYLA, and assisted in numerous Rotary projects, accompanying his grandfather, Past President and Past District Governor Douglas Detweiler. Carson was also awarded a National Merit Scholarship. Two scholarship winners, Janesse Asare-Danquah (Richard L. Hale Scholarship) and Madeline Mueller (Interact Scholarship) were unable to attend the meeting but will join us at a later date. Please see expanded biographies and photos of our 2020-2021 scholars under "Club Information" on the left hand of this page.
The Rotary Club of Concord held its first online Installation Event June 25, 2020 via Zoom. 40 attendees welcomed the officers and board of directors for 2020-2021: President David Robertson, President-Elect for 2021-2022 Karl Kussin, Secretary Helen Halloran and Treasurer Peter Mahler. Board members include Chris Alphen, Greg Costigan, Hiliary Taylor, Beth Winn, Andrea Zall, Henry Dane, Dick Hale, and Steve Kirk.
Attendees applauded Immediate Past President Jean Goldsberry’s outstanding leadership during the unprecedented challenges of the Covid pandemic. Goldsberry thanked club members for their flexibility and endurance, highlighting many accomplishments during the year: cookout for the Council on Aging, booth at Jazzfest, Bristol Lodge soup kitchen in Waltham, food packing for Rise Against Hunger, hot chocolate at the holiday parade, food delivery to Open Table, sponsorship of a new Interact Club at Concord Middle School, football luncheon with the Bedford Club, partnering with the Lexington Club to assemble and distribute face masks and shields, and more.
Noel Choquette, Karl Kussin and Hilary Taylor received the revered “Rotarian of the Year” award. Greg Costigan was awarded the Richard L. Hale Club Service Award, and the Extra Mile Award went to Dave Robertson. Richard Warren, Henry Dane and Dave Robertson were honored for their work delivering produce from Gaining Ground to Open Table. The Rotary Club of Concord presented Rotary Partnership Awards to the Lexington and Bedford Clubs.
At our June 4 meeting, Meteorologist Dr. John Keller, researcher at AIR Worldwide in Boston, presented a comprehensive non-partisan talk with slides about climate change, offering caution and hope. Keller reviewed the sweeping climate changes over the centuries. See his slide presentation by clicking on "Climate Slides" under "Club Information" to the bottom left of this Home Page.
The Rotary Club of Concord salutes all 2020 graduates with banners in West Concord (Church Street and Main Street) and Concord Center (Thoreau Street corner of Emerson Field) Our hearty congratulations to all!
Some years ago the Rotary Club of Concord initiated the Class Act Awards for high school students who were not necessarily the top scholars but who excelled in an extra-curricular activity. From its celebratory start as a Rotary cookout for awardees and their families the event expanded to an awards ceremony hosted by Concord Carlisle High School encompassing many activities. Unfortunately the 2020 Class Act Awards night was cancelled, like all school events. However, the sponsors of the event wanted to be sure that the incredible individual community service efforts of CCHS students did not go unrecognized. CCHS distributed the awards, including the Rotary Club's recognition of young people for their Community Service, Integrity, Kindness, Leadership, and Civic Responsibility. Each club and sport at CCHS had an opportunity to choose their Rotary award recipients, as nominated by their group advisors or coaches. A comprehensive list of the recipients is available below under "Club Information." Please take a look at this incredible line-up of 83 Rotary honorees!
Photo: Rotary sponsors Class Act, 2010 in the old CCHS High School Cafeteria.
School Superintendent Dr. Laurie Hunter spoke to Rotary's Zoom meeting May 28, outlining the many challenges and evolving solutions presented to students, teachers and parents by the Pandemic. Beginning with the March closing of the schools, academic focus was on enrichment and review. By May, online teaching included classes twice a week per course for high school students, once a week per course for Middle School students and twice a week for Elementary students, with a goal of three hours of instruction per day for students. The State put out standards which Concord easily met. The schools distributed food to families and institutions. The high school honored graduating seniors by delivering a yard sign to every student via a decorated school bus that went as far as Boston for Metco graduates. There are plans for a modified in-person graduation in July in the football field. Hunter overviewed evolving plans for a possible reopening in the fall, with work being done by task forces comprised of broad community representation. Dr. Hunter will give us an update in the coming months.
Rotarians and guests who zoomed in to our May 21 meeting were treated to a stimulating talk by business research consultant Andrew Trudeau, talking to us from Brooklyn. Many of us remember Andrew (Ann’s son) when he was a charter member of the CCHS Interact Club. After graduating from CCHS he received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in International Relations, and embarked on a consulting career. Andrew overviewed results of surveys concerning the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and explained how his firm, Savanta, carries our market research. He fielded many questions that broadened our understanding of how a research firm gathers and interprets data. Thank you Andrew for a great presentation!
The Rotary Club of Concord's Team in Emerson Hospital's 5k Run-Walk for Cancer raised $2,124, surpassing its original goal of $1500. Special thanks to Team Leaders Leigh Ann Crimmings, Sharon Spaulding, and Hilary Taylor for their special leadership and to all who contributed. A virtual success in a virtual race!
Attendees at the Rotary Club of Concord’s Zoom Meeting May 14 were treated to a serious demonstration on how to make sausage by eminent chef and Immediate Past Club President Henry Dane. What spices to use? How to get the ground pork into those little casings? How to cook and enjoy? We gained a new skill to use during our quarantine! Thanks Henry.
Photo: Sausage grinder and stuffer, manufactured in Poland, used in Concord MA
Katelyn Boyer, a charter member of Scouts BSA Troup 19, spoke at the Rotary Club of Concord's May 7 meeting via Zoom. With her awesome slide show, she introduced us to the new reality...the Boy Scouts of America, now Scouts BSA, welcome girls into their scouting world. Katelyn will become an Eagle Scout in the near future. Her project: building 10 beds for "Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Middlesex County" for children who have no beds of their own. Go for it, Katelyn!
Due to concerns raised by Covid-19 the Rotary Club of Concord is postponing the 32nd Thomas R. Huckins Memorial Golf Tournament until Monday September 21. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Rotary Scholarship Fund and Rotary charitable projects. Emerson Hospital, Barrett Sotheby’s International Realty (the Maurer/Widell Team) and Deaconess Abundant Life Services have already stepped up as Platinum Sponsors. If you have signed on as a golfer or sponsor, thank you! For detailed information about the event please click GOLF in the banner above.
We are sad to note the passing of our member Jay Agarwal, who most recently supported the Pops as sponsor of the Band. Photo taken at RC of Concord's Holiday Party.
AGARWAL, Dr. Jagdish C. "Jay" Vice President Emeritus of Charles River Associates Age 93, retired Chemical Engineer and Concord resident died on Sunday, April 12, 2020 at Emerson Hospital. He was the husband of the late Elizabeth (Smith) Agarwal and the late Enid (Maslon) Starr. Born in Karachi, India on September 8, 1926, he was the son of the late Madangopal and Kasturi Bai. After arriving in the United States in 1946, he attended Brooklyn's Polytechnic Institute, where he earned a Master's degree and Doctorate in Chemical Engineering. Following his studies, he began employment as the Division Chief of the United States Steel Corporation in Pittsburgh, PA. Dr. Agarwal formerly served as the Director of Development at Kennecott Corporation in Lexington, MA, acted as the Vice President at Amax, Inc. in Greenwich, CT, and was the Vice President of Charles River Associates at the John Hancock tower in Boston. He was named a Fellow of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, a Fellow of the Metallurgical Society, and was also a member of the American Chemical Society. Dr. Agarwal was a longtime Corporator of Emerson Hospital in Concord. As a generous benefactor, his donation to Emerson's Diabetes Center was named in memory of his late wife, Elizabeth. A resident of Newbury Court in Concord, he formerly resided in Sudbury. He was a member of the Concord Rotary Club, First Parish in Concord, and First Parish of Sudbury. Survivors include his son, Navin Agarwal and his wife Cheryl of Woburn, his daughter, Meera Thompson and her husband Loran of New York, NY, his grandsons, Darren N. Agarwal and Tyler M. Agarwal, as well as dear companion, Miriam Reilly of Concord. Due to current restrictions on gatherings in light of COVID-19, a Memorial Service will be announced at a later date. For Jay's online guestbook, visit www.DeeFuneralHome.com Dee Funeral Home of Concord 978-369-2030 Caring for families since 1868
With no opportunity to meet in person, Concord Rotarians held regular meetings via Zoom beginning March 26. Informal and newsy, the meetings proved the perfect way for us to maintain our Rotary friendships and move ahead with Rotary business. On March 26 we welcomed Maureen Masciola as a guest from the Acton-Boxboro club and Mary Garcia, our Assistant Governor. Members reported on their business, professional, and personal responses to COVID 19 restrictions. On Apr. 2 guest speaker Christine Pinney, Dist. RYLA Chair, presented an energizing overview of RYLA, calling on her two daughters and RYLA students from CCHS to give testimonials about their experiences. On Apr. 9, Victor Tom of the Bedford Club presented “How Rocket Science made its way into Major League Baseball.” On April 16 we will be joined by the Rotary Club of Lexington to hear Steve Kirk and Hilary Taylor reveal what peaks their enthusiasm. On April 23 our Oxford scholar Camilla Vogt will report in from Denver, joined by her UK sponsor Keith Crawford from the RC of Witney.
The Concord Carlisle Interact Club reached out to the patients and staff at Emerson Hospital with messages of thanks and an expansive banner prominently displayed where all could see. Here is our very own Sharon Spaulding, Rotary Advisor to the Interact Club of Concord Carlisle High with the banner.
The 13th proved to be a lucky day for the Rotary Club of Concord as we inducted two new members. David Halloran is not a stranger...he is the husband of our own Helen Halloran who just happens to be his sponsor! Dave is a Funeral Director at Concord Funeral Home. Alex Comeau's sponsor is Sharon Sponsor. Alex works for The Guild for Human Services located on Virginia Road. The Guild educates, encourages and empowers individuals with intellectual disabilities so they may achieve their full potential to lead high-quality lives and participate meaningfully in society. Here is Alex, reading the Four Way Test. Welcome Dave and Alex!
Due to concerns over the spread of the COVID-19 virus the Rotary Club of Concord has canceled its Apr. 3rd Spring Pops with the Concord Band to benefit Habitat for Humanity of Greater Lowell. Rotary will continue to fundraise for Habitat’s renovation of a house in Concord, recognizing the outstanding work Habitat is doing to help a deserving family own an affordable home here in our community. If you would like to help, make your check out to Concord Rotary Charitable Endowment and mail it to Box 455, Concord, MA 01742. Stay tuned for updates.
Photo: The chosen family, along with community volunteers, will put in many hours of hands-on labor to ready this Concord home for its new occupants.
The speaker at our meeting March 5th was Colonel Chad R. Ellsworth, Commander of the 66th Air Base Group at Hanscom Air Force Base. As Col. Ellsworth explained, the 66th Air Base Group supports the Air Force acquisition mission, providing base, regional and readiness support for the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, three Program Executive Offices, MIT Lincoln Laboratory, a variety of other tenant organizations, and a joint-service military housing community. Ellsworth took us on a verbal tour of the base, where there are 730 home, two new schools (primary and middle), MIT Lincoln labs, a golf course open to the public, a commissary, fire department, hospital, child care centers, and more. 130,000 veterans take advantage of Hanscom's services each year. Thanks to Sharon Spaulding for bringing Colonel Ellsworth our way!
Rebecca Neale, a Bedford-based family law attorney, has recognized through her practice both the subtle and overt use of financial abuse that intrudes on the well-being of spouses and dependents. At our Jan. 16 Rotary meeting, Neale emphasized that one of the significant barriers to people being able to safely leave an abusive relationship is their financial concerns. It can be challenging for friends to support someone trapped in an abusive relationship. For someone to talk to, she suggested calling DVSN, Inc. at 888-399-6111. She emphasized that if someone is in danger, one should contact his/her local law enforcement. A reliable source of information about domestic violence, financial abuse, and more, is www.TheHotline.org. Thank you Rebecca!
At Rotary's Feb. 6 meeting Sharon Carlson and Andrea Hewitt. two Concord women who started the non-profit "Dignity In Asylum" gave a riveting talk about the experiences of asylum seekers and their overwhelming needs. In an effort to help, Dignity in Asylum provides safe transitional housing and community support services to asylum-seekers who are at risk of homelessness, abuse and trafficking. Asylum seekers have no documentation, unlike refugees, who often have documentation and are eligible for public housing, work papers, and other government support. Thankfully Sharon and Andrea have been able to help many women and men survive precarious situations. They have used their past professional and volunteer experience to help very vulnerable people.
Announcing the Rotary Club of Concord's 45th Annual Spring Pops with the Concord Band featuring jazz vocalist Cindy Scott on Friday, April 3 at 8:00 p.m. at 51 Walden, The Center for the Performing Arts, in Concord Center. For this concert Rotary is partnering with Habitat for Humanity of Greater Lowell to support their mission to build strength, stability and self-reliance through shelter and specifically to assist in rehabilitating a house in Concord to provide housing for two families who need a “hands up, not a hand out!” Come early to enjoy refreshments and bid on silent auction items.
Reserve now for great seats. $30 per person. Be a sponsor, buy tickets, reserve program ad space, or donate online by clicking here. https://secure.qgiv.com/for/crp/event/811537/ Or call Noel Choquette at 978-878-9308 or Dick Hale at 978-394-5158. To purchase tickets by US Post, make check out to the Concord Rotary Charitable Endowment, and mail to Concord Rotary Charitable Endowment, Box 455, Concord MA by March 27.
Rotarians are now familiar with the Concord-Carlisle Community Chest, thanks to an enlightening talk by Executive Director Jennifer Ubaldino at the Jan. 23 Rotary meeting. Having joined the Concord-Carlisle Community Chest in October 2017 with nearly 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Jennifer has accomplished a lot! We recognized some of the beneficiaries of the Chest's support as agencies where we have volunteered, including Minuteman Arc, Open Table and the Concord Integrated Preschool. Thanks Jennifer and all who support the Community Chest. Here are Helen and Dave leafing through the Chest's annual report.
Jennifer Ubaldino presents Concord-Carlisle Community Chest
On Jan. 16 Past President Henry Dane presented a check for $4,000 from the Rotary Club of Concord to the Concord Association of Concord Music Parents at a Middle School Concert. The gift represented proceeds from the Rotary Club of Concord's booth at the Middlesex Jazz Festival in June 2019. Shown here receiving the check is Christopher Noce, Concord Middle School Band and Music Teacher.
Rotarians know how to cook for a crowd, and it's a good thing because we had a crowd of hungry guests at Bristol Lodge Soup Kitchen Jan. 13. With special thanks to Sue and Steve Kirk, Nick Krol, Richard Warren, June Grace and our enthusiastic helpers from Walden Street School, we served a nutritious and delicious meal of pasta with sausage and meatballs, hot rolls, salad and huge cookies, along with milk and juice. To see the short video, click here
On Jan. 9 Lucy Lacoste and LaiSun Keane, of Lacoste/Keane Gallery showcased their gallery, previewing upcoming exhibitions, Ani Kasten: Debris Poems, January 18 - February 8 and Renata Cassiano-Alvarez: Consumed by The Gospel of Uncertainty, February 15 - March 7, 2020. The gallery, located at 25 Main St., features contemporary ceramics and is committed to clay as an art medium. Lucy founded the gallery in 1990 and LaiSun joined her in 2018. Many Rotarians have never visited the gallery, but thanks to Lucy and LaiSun, now have a standing invitation to stop by to see their curated exhibitions.
District Governor, Club President, proponent of the Rotary Leadership Institute, booster of The Rotary Foundation, promoter of Shelter Box, host of Ambassadorial Scholars, builder of wells in Kenya, web page guru, attendee of many Rotary International conventions, enthusiastic participant in club service projects, idea-generator for all things Rotary, “Opa” to beautiful grandchildren, beloved husband of Ingrid, and more. We mourn the loss of our energetic friend and greatly appreciate the designation of the Concord Rotary Charitable Endowment as the recipient of gifts in his memory, assuring that Rotary’s charitable work will be carried on in his name. If you would like to make a secure online donation in Doug’s memory, click HERE. Checks in his memory should be made out to the Concord Rotary Charitable Endowment and mailed to 801 Main Street, Concord, MA 01742.
Rotarians and their guests gathered at Newbury Court to kick off the Holiday Season with a festive gathering. A lively reception preceded the delicious dinner in the elegant setting. Master of Ceremonies Dave Robertson steered us through the program, highlighted by a remembrance of our beloved Doug Detweiler, the awarding of a Paul Harris to Chris Alphen and a surprise award to Steve Verrill. Sarah Robertson and friends led us in song, and thespians Richard Warren and Kate Henderson sang and danced to Karaoke tunes. Only Nick Krol and Sarah were brave enough to join them...but wait til next year!
On Nov. 21 the Rotary Club of Concord hosted the Rotary Club of Bedford in celebration of our annual Thanksgiving luncheon honoring Rotary friendships and friendly backyard football rivalries. Senior football players from both high schools, along with the senior cheer squad, the coaches, and school and town dignitaries gathered at the Colonial Inn to enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving feast. Among others, special recognition went to Rotarians Dane, Robertson and Warren who received root vegetable trophies for delivering tons of fresh produce to Open Table. Featured speaker Amy Sbihli discussed how physical therapy can help correct scoliosis in young people.
Flanked by Dunkin’ on the right and the Lion’s Club on the left, the Rotary Club of Concord carried out its traditional hot chocolate give-away as part of a trio. “Light up Night” revelers stopped first at Dunkin’ to pick up their cocoa, then to Rotary for toppings and donuts, and finally on to the Lions Club for some fresh popcorn. 1200 cups of chocolate were served! The falling snow added to the Dickens-like scene. Many thanks to the hearty Rotarians who set up and took down the tent in the challenging weather.
On Nov. 21 Rotarians will celebrate the life of our beloved Past President Doug Detweiler at a Memorial Service at Trinitarian Congregational Church, 54 Walden Street in Concord. Doug's obituary is below. You may leave a remembrance on our Facebook page or on the Dee Funeral Home page.
Brenda Gould, Ex. Dir. of Habitat for Humanity, Greater Lowell, overviewed the work of this local non-profit that serves 15 towns in North Middlesex County, recently helping 166 families through grass roots efforts to build affordable, energy efficient homes. Habitat families get a hand up, not a hand out, participating in the construction of the homes they will own. The Rotary Club of Concord looks forward to volunteering at the "build" when Habitat for Humanity renovates a house in Concord in the Spring of 2020. Shown here, Brenda introduces a student whose life in a Habitat home gave her to access to a quality education.
Gino Frattalone shared his experience raising dollars for The Society of St. Vincent De Paul's food distribution center in Arizona by selling a video of him dancing with stunning partners and singing in his own mellow Italian voice. Gino will visit 5 Rotary Clubs today, as he regularly visits many clubs many times. A member of the Littleton Club, Gino is an honorary member of three other clubs. Unfortunately we did not have a computer available for him to show his video but Chris Alphen found his performance on You Tube, and passed around his phone for all to see. Bravo Gino. Here is Gino with Pres. Jean Goldsberry and Florence Goulet.
The Rotary Club of Concord celebrated World Polio Day Oct. 24 at Verrill Farm where we basked in the sunlit room while we ate sandwiches and watched the new polio video premiered by Rotary International on this day. Monies saved by our "bring your own lunch" event will be donated for polio eradication. We learned that Polio cases have dropped by 99.9 percent, from 350,000 cases in 1988 in 125 countries to 33 cases of wild poliovirus in 2018 in just two countries: Afghanistan and Pakistan. We agreed to remain committed to the end.
Andy Davis, Executive Director of Worcester Regional Airport (ORH) convinced us that flying out of Worcester is often more convenient and less expensive than Logan. Currently at ORH Jet Blue, American Airlines, and Delta offer flights to New York City, Philadelphia, Detroit, Orlando and Fort Lauderdale. Many other destinations may be reached through connecting flights. Owned and operated by the Massachusetts Port Authority, Worcester Regional Airport's amenities include a $15.7 million passenger terminal and over $12 million worth of airside improvements such as lighting systems, navigational aids and a new control tower. Andy was with American Airlines for 25 years, joining them fresh out of college into an entry level position and working his way up the through the ranks. With his extensive background, he shared a broad range of information about the airline industry in our area and elsewhere.
On Oct. 3 Concord Rotarians listened with rapt attention as Julie Andolina told of her experience with the Oley Foundation. Now a young adult, Julie is serving as an intern at Oley. She told her life's story showing photos of herself as a newborn needing immediate life-saving surgery and as she progressed through life and multiple surgeries, always depending on intravenous feeding to provide the nutrition she needed. Julie is now completely cured, and credits Oley with providing amazing support to her and her family. Founded in 1983 by Lynn Howard, MD and her patient, Clarence "Oley" Oldenburg, the Oley Foundation is a national, non-profit organization that enriches the lives of those living with home intravenous nutrition and tube feeding through education, advocacy, and networking. Here is Julie with her "Uncle Dave" Robertson.
At Rotary's Sept.26 meeting Jody Marchand. founder of the Live for Liv Foundation, shared her chilling story of domestic violence and urged members to spread the word about its prevalence and dangers. Jody lost her 17-year-old daughter, Olivia, to a horrific act of domestic violence. Jody herself was also a victim of the incident having survived being shot twice. The Live for Liv Foundation conducts the annual Ride for Liv/Run for Liv event. The proceeds from the annual events are donated to organizations that help support domestic violence victims and recently included Domestic Violence Services Network and a shelter in Lowell. Jody will tell her story to any interested group.
On Sept. 18 Mark Foley, Executive Director of JHAMTSE International, presented an inspiring message about the children served by this compassionate organization. Headquarted in Acton MA, JHAMTSE supports the Jhamtse Gatsal Children’s Community in the foothills of the Himalayas in the district of Arunachal Pradesh, India. Mark shared interesting facts about the geography and social composition of the community. His photos and video clips made it clear that the love and structure offered the children living there reap lasting results. For an in-depth look at how life there changed a child's life, see the Emmy winning documentary "Tashi and The Monk".
Photo: Mark, pointing out a detail on the screen to his right.
On Wed., Sept 11, 2019 the Rotary Club of Concord and the Colonial Inn held a reception at which the Al Filipov award for Courage and Service was awarded to Lieutenant William Nelson of the Concord Fire Department and Police Officer Gerald Mearn of the Concord Police Department. Concordian Al Filipov was a passenger on American Airlines Flight 11, the first hijacked plane to crash into the World Trade Center. Keynote speaker was Al’s son, David Filipov, who was a foreign correspondent for TheBoston Globe and The Washington Post. Chiefs Joseph O’Connor and Tom Judge assisted in the presentations. A donation to Minuteman Arc will be made in Lieutenant Nelson’s name and a donation to Home Base Veteran and Family Care will be made in Officer Nelson’s name.
Rotarians, volunteers from the Walden Street School, and former Concord Rotarian Carolyn Goff served mounds of spaghetti and meaty bolognese inspired sauce, green salad and site-made coleslaw, oven warmed buns, copious butter to spread, on fresh picked Verrill corn on the cob, followed by a delightful presentation of lemon and brownie ‘cups ‘. There were some leftovers wrapped and sent to a nearby shelter. With a few detours and the donations of corn by Verrill and cabbage by Gaining Ground, the meal turned out to be one of the best ever! See photos in front page album.
Dist. Gov. Pam Anastasi presented us with some very achievable challenges when she presented her goals for clubs in the District at the Rotary Club of Concord's Aug. 29 meeting. She invited our participation in an enticing number of activities, citing Polio Plus as one of her favorite Rotary endeavors. Recognizing our club as a very active organization, undertaking 52 events in one year, she did cite some areas where we should be putting extra effort, among them membership recruitment and retention and the use of social media as an avenue for public image enhancement. Also in attendance was our new Assistant AG, Mary Garcia of the RC of Nashoba Valley. Photo: Pam brought us this year's banner.
"Don't Retire- Volunteer" Sage advice from Aug. 22 speaker, Past President Ann Trudeau. After retiring early, Ann did not waste a second getting involved in important projects, among them 2Volunteer at Concord Carlisle High School. 2Volunteer is an organization that facilitates the the connection between the volunteer needs of our communities and the students' interests. Among other things, 2Volunteer helps students track their volunteer hours to assist them in obtaining the 40 hours required for graduation. (Many students far exceed this minimum.) Ann helped organize Concord's Interact Club at CCHS. Currently the bulk of Ann's time and energy is consumed by her dedication to The Sharing Foundation, where she has served for over nine years and is the current president. The Sharing Foundation was started by local pediatrician Nancy Hendrie, and has grown in its outreach to orphaned and disadvantaged children in Cambodia to include an orphanage, schools, health programs, a farm, and village improvement projects. Rotarians may sponsor Sharing Foundation students, and are encouraged to host speakers from the Sharing Foundation to spread the word about the great work of this organization.
Jai-Anah Bennet, 2019 winner of the Richard Hale Scholarship and Jillian Cupp, winner of a Rotary Scholarship, attended the Club meeting August 22. Jai-Anah thanked the Club for the scholarship, noting that she will be attending the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Sciences where she plans to study sonography. Jai-Anah volunteers extensively in her community and is especially interested in helping others find healing after losing loved ones to violence. She introduced her mother, who accompanied her to the meeting. Jillian Cupp also thanked the club for its support. She was leaving for the University of Maryland immediately following the meeting. She plans to major in pre-business. Jillian has volunteered for many Concord non-profits and has worked at the Toy Shop and Pure Barre in Concord. Both girls have received Rotary awards in the past.
A little rain did not deter the grilling geniuses of the Rotary Club of Concord from cooking up some delectable burgers and hot dogs. Fresh fresh fresh corn from Verrill Farm along with potato salad, coleslaw, tomatoes, lettuce and watermelon made up an authentic summer meal for 100+ guests at Concord's COA Aug. 21. John Dow made a guest appearance, commanding the grill along with Rich, Leigh Ann, Henry and more. Even with the great turnout of Rotarians and wives/husbands, there was plenty of work to go around. The reward for good work is more work, so we will be back next year! Photo: a line up of mostly yellow shirted Rotary volunteers. See photo album on this page. serving hungry seniors
Hilary Taylor graciously hosted Rotary Club of Concord's Annual Summer Outing Aug. 8. With beautiful weather, a gorgeous setting, outstanding cooks, lobsters, corn on the cob, chicken and steak on the grill, appetizers, salads, and many desserts, everyone had more than enough to eat. Conversations ranged from joking to serious catching up with old friends. Thanks to all who made this evening such a success. Here is what three satisfied gourmets looked like toward the end of the evening.
On Aug. 1 Becca Pizzi, the first woman to complete the World Marathon Challenge, awed us with her athletic endurance, inspiring commitment to a goal and entertaining speaking ability. Pizzi finished 7 marathons on 7 continents in 7 days in 2016, then did it again in 2018! A Belmont native, Pizzi started running at age 5 and dedicated many hours of her life to ultimately achieve this world record. She also managed to draw a record crowd of attendees at the Rotary meeting! See her story on You Tube and Wikipedia. You will be impressed!. She quotes Tom Brady when asked how she kept going, "I did not come this far to come this far." Becca posed for photos and signed autographs. Here she is with Sheila Watts:
On July 25 Bridged Bieber of Household Goods in Acton spoke at our luncheon meeting. We were quickly captivated by her enthusiasm for the work done by this incredible non-profit. Each year, Household Goods furnishes over 2,500 homes with 60,000 pieces of furniture and smaller household items. Many of the people who need Household Goods are recently homeless, veterans, survivors of domestic violence, low income, immigrants, victims of disaster, or are coping with illness or disability. They are referred to Household Goods by one of hundreds of social services agencies in Massachusetts. Bridget recounted stories about families who had received help from Household Goods and about amazing volunteers who enthusiastically carry out its mission. Here is Bridged, fielding questions from inquisitive Rotarians.
July 8 turned out to be a brilliant day, with sunshine and kids and Rotarians all having fun. Everyone went home with a trophy and some even earned a ribbon. Here is John Lombard ready to congratulate the participants with some gold!
The Staff at Open Table in Maynard prepared lunch for the Rotary Club of Concord on July 10. The tour of the facility boosted our appreciation of the broad outreach this important non-profit maintains. Executive Director Jeanine Calebria explained that Open Table offers weekly community meals in Concord and Maynard and fresh market food pantry shopping by appointment in Maynard. They provide a welcoming community of support and assistance to families and individuals, including many seniors and children, to those living in central Middlesex county. They thanked us for our recent gift of $10,000 raised through our recent Pops concert and applauded the work of the CCHS Interact Club that has made the place beautiful with plantings and held fundraisers to benefit the program. Here is Concord Rotary's President praising the work of Open Table as our members look on.
June 24 turned out to be the most beautiful, most enjoyable day for Rotary's 31st Annual Thomas R. Huckins Golf Tournament at the Concord Country Club. Everyone pitched in to guarantee top flight support for the Scholarship Fund. Twelve post 9-11 vets from the Salute Military Golf Association of Boston energized the field of players with their enthusiasm and good humor. Many thanks to our sponsors, donors, players, and volunteers for helping to make the event a success. As they say, "We couldn't have done it without you." See more photos in the album on our web page.
With the pelting rain welcoming us to the dry tent at Verrill Farm, members of the Rotary Club of Concord celebrated the installation of the officers for 2019-2020 and recognized Rotarians who had given extraordinary service during the year. Departing President Henry Dane was honored with a gavel mounted on a handsome plaque and numerous rounds of applause. The newly-minted "Rising Star Award" went to Greg Costigan. Noel Choquette received the "Rotarian of the Year" award, while Chris Alphen received the "Richard L. Hale Service Award." The "Service Above Self" Award went to Peter Mahler. New officers include Jean Goldsberry, President; Dave Robertson, Pres. Elect; Karl Kussin, Secretary; Peter Mahler, Treasurer; Doug Detweiler, Executive Secretary. Incoming President Jean Goldsberry previewed the new year. With delicious appetizers, "farm to table" entrees and the famous Verrill Farm rhubarb-strawberry pie for dessert, everyone left full of energy and enthusiasm. See the album on the web page for a peek at the festivities.
On June 10 President Henry Dane attended the presentation of Rotary Awards to students at Peabody Middle School and June Grace attended the presentation of awards at Sanborn Middle School. Our hearty congratulations to these outstanding 8th graders. Their names and associated awards are listed below under "Read More." June posed with the Sanborn winners:
Rotarians cooled jazz lovers with beer, wine, water and soft drinks at their booth at the June 8, 2019 Middlesex Jazz Festival. Lots of fun and plenty of work - but that's Rotary for you! The weather was fantastic and so were the bands. Great turnout. Thanks everyone who chipped in. Note the banner in the background!
Jean Goldsberry and Doug and Ingrid Detweiler will have some tales to tell when they return from the 2019 Rotary International Convention in Hamburg. Here they are with other Rotarians from District 7910.
SAVE: 31st ANNUAL THOMAS R HUCKINS MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT JUNE 24
SIGN UP YOUR FOURSOME NOW - Earlybird Special Ends SATURDAY( $1,100.0 0, $1,000.00 ) REGISTER A FOURSOME BY JUNE 1 AND SAVE!
After Saturday, June 1, a foursome is $1,100. Register at rotaryclubofconcord.org and click on Golf in banner at top.
The shotgun start is at 1:00 p.m. preceded by registration and lunch from 11:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Cocktails and dinner are at 6:30 p.m. The entry fee includes 18 holes of golf at one of New England’s premier courses, use of the putting green, golf cart, lunch, clubhouse reception and dinner, tournament gifts and refreshments. Mulligans will be available for purchase. Silent and live auctions will add to the fun. There will also be a drawing for top-quality golf gear. Compete for a prize for the longest drive and closest to the pin (for men and women). And of course, take home a big prize for your hole-in-one!
There are jazz festivals and then there is THE MIDDLESEX JAZZ FESTIVAL Saturday June 8thfrom 1:00 to 6:30 (rain date Sunday June 9th) in Concord Center in the parking lot behind the Middlesex Bank (58 Main Street). There will be at least seven performing groups, food and arts vendors, fun for the kids, and for the thirsty crowd, the Rotary Club of Concord Beer, Wine and Soft Drinks Tent.
This free outdoor jazz festival is open to the public. Led by the Concord Recreation Center, will feature a mix of 20-piece Big Bands, Latin Jazz, Jump Blues, and Smaller Ensembles. Got a favorite? Here’s the lineup:
1:00 Concord Middle School Jazz Ensemble 1:15 John Piazza Jr. and the South Shore Jazz Collective 2:05 Acton-Boxborough High School Jazz Ensemble 2:20 Joe Magnarelli Trio with Akiko Tsuruga 3:10 Doug Olsen’s Latin Bash! 4:00 The Love Dogs 4:50 Compaq Big Band with Guest Artist World-Renowned Jazz Trumpet Virtuoso Wayne Bergero
Come prepared to enjoy a wonderful afternoon of music and food. The town will provide several large tents to shade areas surrounding stages where the musicians perform. Bring a lawn chair. Rotarians and Lions will pour your drinks!
For more information visit www.middlesexjazfest.org Click "read more" for Rotary photos from 2018.
Concord Rotarians happily celebrated Florence Goulet's return after three month's absence and the visit of Jacky Foster, President of the Rotary Club of Nashoba Valley, who spoke about her club's Global Rotary Foundation grant to provide materials and supplies for maternity services in a hospital and clinic in Ghana. Here are Florence and Jacky.
After two afternoons of assembly and decorating, the cars were ready to race. So were the kids...all 90 of them. Sharon Spaulding, Dave Roberts and a talented crew of Rotarians from Concord and Lexington along with Maynard police and fire personnel ran the derby for an afternoon of excitement. The official electronic track signaled the winners of each six-car race while cars on the "just for fun" non-electronic track crashed into each other and ran helper-skelter down the incline. The kids went home loaded down with the car they made, a certificate, and a blue ribbon. Some were awarded recognition for the most colorfu car, most original decor, etc. category. The popcorn and decorations made the whole event super-authentic. Great job everyone!
Coming up in a few short days...RC of Concord's 31stAnnual Golf Tournament on Monday, June 24, 2019 at the Concord Country Club. The tournament benefits the Rotary Club’s Scholarship Fund. Come at 11:00 a.m. to register and enjoy lunch. At the 1:00 p.m. shotgun start, head out to play 18 holes on this premier course. Then wrap up your day with cocktails, dinner and prizes. Don’t play golf? Sponsor a wounded post 911 veteran to play instead. $275 per player. Click on Golf in menu above for more information. Photo: Tournament Chair Karl Kussin surveys the troops before the shotgun fires.
The Rotary Club of Concord presented Open Table with $10,000 in recognition of its thirtieth anniversary, thanks to the many people who supported Rotary’s April 12 Pops Concert to benefit Open Table.
Photo: Holding the check, Jeanine Calabria, Executive Director, Open Table and Henry Dane, President, Rotary Club of Concord. Front row far left, Jill Block, Open Table: far right, Leigh Ann Crimmings, Rotary. Back row left, Julie Neubuer, Open Table, Noel Choquette, Rotary; Patty Chambers and Mary Siegel, Open Table.
On April 23 Rotarian Peter Mahler read the names of 84 Concord Carlisle High School students who received Class Act Awards from the Rotary Club of Concord at the High School's Awards Ceremony. The students were nominated by faculty for outstanding citizenship and participation in a broad variety of extra-curricular pursuits ranging from sports to media reporting to service activities. Each Rotary awardee received a certificate and a Rotary water bottle to recognize their achievement. Here's Peter at the podium!
True to tradition the Lexington and Concord Clubs held a combined meeting April 18 in honor of Patriot's Day. This year Concord hosted with an absorbing line up of speakers and fines! Linda Dixon and Lorain Marquis from the Lexington Celebrations Committee and Robert Norton from the Concord Celebrations Committee overviewed their roles in organizing their town's event. Rebecca Lynch of the Boys and Girls Club, along with Sharon Spaulding and Deve Robertson presented a plaque of appreciation to Lexington Rotarian Don Martini. And our ever-cheerful server James won the door prize, a three cornered hat!
The rain stopped just in time for the combined Rotary/Lions Club group to march at Concord's traditional Patriot's Day Parade April 15, 2019. We marched past the combined Rotary/Lions Club Pancake breakfast where we were cheered on by the cooks and servers. Leigh Ann Crimmings drove the Mustang convertible and the US Navy Drum and Bugle Corp stepped out behind us to keep up the pace.
The Rotary Club of Concord and P.E.O. Chapter AO (Harvard MA) invite you to attend Kenyan Martina Amoth’s presentation of the Kenya Water Project, the installation of wells and latrines for Kenyan villages and schools. The event will take place April 28 from 2 – 4 p.m. in the Ransome Room at Concord Academy, 166 Main Street in Concord. Refreshments will be served.
The results of this project reflect President Henry’s emphasis on partnering with other organizations to reach lasting results. The Rotary Club of Concord partnered with the Rotary Club of Parklands in Nairobi, Kenya to build wells and latrines under a $35,000 grant from The Rotary Foundation. Detweilers identified the need for the project through their association with Kenyan Martina Armoth, who had undertaken a similar project through PEO, a philanthropic organization that supports the advancement of women. Now Martina will come to Concord to share the results of the project. You will be inspired by the improvement in people’s lives and impressed by the persistence of those who made the wells and latrines a reality.
Photo: Rotarians from Concord and Parklands, Kenya celebrate the Water Project at the Rotary convention.
Minuteman Bike Share received a big boost from Rotary when Rotary designated the program as recipient of its Pops concert's proceeds in 2018. Now, in 2019, the bike rental program is off to a great start. Here is RC of Concord President Henry Dane giving the big check to Concord Recreation Director Rotarian Ryan Kane at the official Ribbon Cutting April 12, 2019..
What a super night--Rotary's 44th Spring Pops with the Concord Band on April 12. Great crowd, great music, great silent auction, great live auction, great refreshments and bar, great program book, great work by so many Concord Rotarians. We are proud to support Open Table's 30th anniversary and the Band's 60th anniversary though this event!
In a few days the Rotary Club of Concord will celebrate its 44th Spring Pops, this year to benefit Open Table. In addition to a super musical program, we have a stimulating list of “silent auction” items and a dynamic live auction opportunities including Red Sox tickets, golf at Nashawtuc Country Club, a gourmet dinner for you and your guests at your home by Chef David and a 10 day stay in Scotland. Here is a short visit to the cottage in Scotland:
Concord Rotarians were delighted to welcome new member Beth Winn of Deaconess Abundant Life on March 21, 2019. Here is Beth with Sharon Spaulding (r) and President Henry Dane during the induction.
We were surprised when a breathless Louisa May Alcott came bustling into Rotary's meeting March 21after having some trouble with the wheels on her carriage. She told us about her book and how it was based on her life, with some fictional additions to make it flow better. She also said she served as a nurse during the war although she would have preferred being a soldier. She remembered taking care of Henry Dane when he was hurt in combat, but he at first didn’t remember.
After Louisa left, Jan Turnquist, Executive Director of Orchard House, showed up and told us about the filming of the newest Little Women in Concord and Harvard. A replica of Orchard House was built on Lowell Road since the actual historic home would be compromised by all the activity of a film crew, lights, etc. The movie, starring Meryl Streep, will be released December 25th. It was suggested that a local screening be held to raise money for the House.
The afternoon of Mar. 12 found Rotarians and Rotary volunteers preparing supper for guests at the Bristol Lodge Soup Kitchen. Here are Leigh Ann Crimmings and Nick Krol stirring ground beef for Henry Dane's (now) famous pasta bake.
The morning of Mar. 12 found Rotarians, Faculty, Community Chest and other volunteers gathered in the cafeteria of CCHS to challenge senior students to spend wisely from their assigned salaries. The "Reality Fair" brought a dose of reality about financial management for these soon-to-graduate young people. Here are John Lombard spinning the Wheel of Fortune" and Buck Grace offering advice about wise utility purchases.
Rotary's "Pops for Open Table" on Friday April 12 will feature The Concord Band, now in its 60th season, in a festive evening featuring jazz vocalists Amanda Carr and American Idol finalist John Stevens. Come early to meet your friends for a drink and a chance to bid on the silent auction items before the 8 p.m. downbeat. Proceeds will go to support Open Table, now celebrating its 30th year of serving our community. (https://secure.qgiv.com/for/crp/event/799274/)
Concord Rotarians followed the lead of Sharon Spaulding and friends to put on a full day of stimulating activities for the kids at the Boys and Girls Club of Assabet Valley Feb. 22 during their school vacation. Among the favorite activities were a bouncy house, hopscotch, golf, ring toss, word on the back, hot potato game. mazes and drawing, trivia, and cookie decorating. All indoors! The kids went home happy and the Rotarians went home tired! Lots of pep and energy from a great group of kids. Thanks to the Boys and Girls Club staff and all the Rotarians who helped. Photo: A cookie good enough to eat!
Concord Rotarians had fun hosting an indoor carnival at Minuteman Arc Mar. 2. There was basketball, 2 fishing ponds, football and baseball pitching, a light up table game and more. Dave Robertson, seen here, was an expert painting coach and Dick Hale kept the popcorn popping.
Jeanine Calabra, Executive Director of Open Table, gave an inspirational talk about the current and past mission of this community service organization whose mission is to provide healthy food, friendship and support to those in need while respecting their privacy and dignity. Now celebrating its 30th year, Open Table is truly open, and welcomes everyone and anyone from a large area covering 25 zip codes. With 500 volunteers and a new location in Maynard, the organization depends on donations of time, food and monetary contributions to assist the growing number of those who need not only food, but companionship. Our club's Evening at Pops on April 12 will benefit Open Table so be sure to support it by placing an ad in the program book and by attending the concert. Bring guests! Click on Pops on the menu bar above.
The Rotary Club of Concord welcomed Concord Chief of Police Joseph F. O’Connor as featured speaker at its January 24 luncheon meeting at the Colonial Inn. Chief O’Connor presented a comprehensive review of Concord’s community policing covering the wide array of services available to meet Concord’s needs. He answered questions concerning pedestrian safety, speed limits, domestic violence, youth, firearms, opioids, and more. There is no doubt that Concord has an outstanding Police Department ready to assist its residents with skill and compassion. Photo: RC of Concord Pres. Henry Dane with Chief O'Connor, Rotarians Doug Detweiler (L) and Rosario Rizzo with O'Connor
Members of the Rotary Club of Concord, their families and volunteers from the Walden School cooked a yummy meal of Italian sausage, roasted vegetables (thanks Steve Verrill) with cookies for dessert. Sue Kirk is not afraid of hot ovens!. Guests in the chow line enjoyed every scrap of food...well, truth be told, the cooks also sampled some of the food (just to be sure it was as good as advertised).
Congratulations to Steve Verrill and Sanford Wong on being awarded Paul Harris Fellowships in recognition of their outstanding service to Rotary and beyond. Here they are with President Henry Dane who did the honors at the Rotary Club of Concord's Holiday banquet.
Rotarians and guests gathered at Newbury Court Dec. 20 for a festive reception and dinner highlighted by our usual outstanding rendition of 12 Days of Christmas led by Sarah Robertson and friends. We were honored to present Paul Harris Fellowships to Steve Verrill and Sanford Wong.
At Bowladrome in Acton on the Saturday after Thanksgiving a great time was had by all....our Minuteman Arc friends, Rotarians, and guest volunteers including Sarah Robertson and Kevin McConnell! Here's our organizer, Sharon Spaulding, cheering the bowlers. Let's keep up this traditional post-holiday event!
When an old farmhouse comes down, Rotarians find a way to repurpose the wood. Thanks to Dave Robertson, Jon Archer, Steve Verrill and the Maynard firemen, wood is now stored for a future building project, outdoor planters at the Boys and Girls Club of Assabet Valley. Watch for a call to action to build and plant next Spring. Photo: Dave and Jon finished the job after everyone had left on Saturday, Dec. 1.
Rotarians from the Concord and Bedford Clubs entertained the senior football players and cheerleaders from CCHS and Bedford High Schools at our annual Thanksgiving lunch. Coaches, alumni, school principals, police and fire personnel and other dignitaries attended to cheer on the friendly Thanksgiving day competition between the schools. Here are the players and cheerleaders from Concord Carlisle.
The Rotary Club of Concord was named "2018 Community Partner" by the Boys and Girls Club of Assabet Valley at their recent annual meeting. Here are (from left) Dave Robertson, Sharon Spaulding, President Henry Dane, and Theresa Espinola, Rotary leaders who planned many events for the kids who attend the Boys and Girls Club After School Program. The award Sharon is holding reads "In recognition of your incredible support to the Club for the past 3 years."
Concord Rotarians were happy to learn more about two new members at the Nov. 29 meeting of the Rotary Club of Concord. Here are Greg Costigan and Richard Warren at the podium.
On Nov. 12 Concord and Lexington Rotarians sponsored a lunch for Vets and their guests at the Bedford VA Hospital in honor of Veteran/s Day and their service to our country. Shown here: the delicious cake and scenes from the lunch after the memorial service. Thank you Vets and thank you Rotary. A beautiful tradition for all of us.
Julia Rayberg, co-founder and CEO of Worthy Village in Guatemala, presented an inspiring overview of the work this non-profit organization does to alleviate poverty in a country where 59% of the people live on a daily income of $3.20. Established in 2014, the organization is already addressing issues such as providing safe drinking water and heat, healthcare, education and local artisan projects. Rotary's Early Act Club at Carlisle Middle School raised funds to support Worthy Village and presented Rayberg with a check at the Rotary meeting Nov. 8. Shown in this photo, from the left, are Concord Rotarian Sharon Spaulding, Carlisle Middle School Teacher and Early Act sponsor Liz Gray and Julia Rayberg.
A jovial crowd of 1100 attended Rotary's Oktoberfest Sept. 29. Perfect weather! Great beer samples. Lots of kids for the activities. Lively bands and lively dancers. Yummy food from food trucks and Verrills. Great selection of auction items. Vendors of all sorts, from jewelry to caramels. Thanks to all who volunteered and thanks to all who came to have fun and support our new local chapter of Sleep In Heavenly Peace, an organization that builds bunk beds for kids who have no beds of their own.
Photo: Helen and Dave Halloran helped the kids choose and paint pumpkins.
The Rotary Club of Concord honored Concord's First Responders on the 17th anniversary of 9/11 at a brunch and ceremony at Trinitarian Congregational Church in Concord. Chief Tom Judge of the Concord Fire Dept. presented Firefighter/EMT Lindsay McGloughlin with an Al Filipov Award For Courage and Service in recognition of her outstanding work and bravery. Lt. Joseph Monahan presented Sergeant Paul Flynn of the Concord Police Department’s Patrol Division with an Al Filipov Award For Courage and Service for his 30+ years of service to Concord as he prepares to retire. David Filipov, Al Filipov’s son, spoke of his father's life of service. Al Filipov was a beloved Concord Rotarian who died in the tragedy of 9/11.
For many years the Rotary Club of Concord has supported The Sharing Foundation, a non-profit organization started by former Rotarian Pediatrician Dr. Nancy Hendrie. The Sharing Foundation's mission is to help meet the physical, emotional, educational and medical needs of orphaned and seriously disadvantaged children in Cambodia. Rotarian Ann Trudeau is board president. She has invited Rotarians to attend the Foundation'ss 20th Anniversary Celebration Sept 16 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.. Register at www.eventbrite.com and search for "Changing the World."
The Club hosted our new District Governor Steven Sager at its Aug. 23 meeting. Sager reviewed District 7910's goals and special events for the 2018-2019 year, with a special emphasis on membership growth and retention. Here are Concord Rotarian Past District Governor Doug Detweiler, RC of Concord 2018-2019 President Henry Dane and District Governor Steven Sager ready to embark on a busy year ahead.
In the past few weeks the Club has welcomed new members Greg Costigan, Daniel Nyongo, Richard Warren, Brian Burke and Edit Joachimpillai. We look forward to having these friends help us serve our community. Here are Greg, Daniel and Edith at their installation.
Hilary Taylor's beautiful lawn (and pool) proved the perfect setting for our casual summer outing. Rain cleared, yummy appetizers and drinks set the stage for the lobsters, potato salad and corn, then desserts desserts desserts. The full moon lit our way home. Thank you everyone for this evening of friendship. Here are Steve, Frank, Joan, and Peter ready to attack the lobsters!
The Rotary Club of Concord awarded scholarships to 12 CCHS students entering their junior year to RYLA, Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, a weekend at Fitchburg State College aimed at developing the leadership potential of young men and women. Among the 190 RYLANS attending were our own CCHS students Madeline Mueller, Emily Harrington, Edward Feather, Lucas Wilbur, Ethan Goresitz, Lila Hempel-Edgers, Abigail Mueller, Gretchen Carr, Olivia Mueller, Colleen Boyle, Carson Detweiler, and Elise Dohoney. Here is Carson Detweiler (standing, third from left) with his team, posing with a bridge they had to build from newspaper and tape, strong enough to hold a gallon of paint and high enough for the can to pass underneath. They had to accomplish this without talking and within a limited time period. Talk about team work!
On June 14 at the Concord Rod and Gun Club, Henry Dane was installed as the 87th president of the Rotary Club of Concord. Other officers installed included President-elect Jean Goldsberry, Secretary David Robertson, and Co-treasurer Peter Mahler. Leigh Ann Crimmings is the Immediate Past President. The Installation was an informal evening, with a video of the past years' activities edited by Steve Kirk and the presentation of special awards. Here we are, all lined up to wish Henry a successful year. This is Henry's second term as president, having served in 2001-2002 as well.
ROTARY CLUB OF CONCORD AWARDS $20,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS
Photo: from left, Hannah Bruno, Trustee of the Scholarship Fund of Concord & Carlisle; Rotarian Karl Kussin, Golf Tournament Chair; Alex Hamel, winner of Rotary Scholarship; Rotarian Boris Nikitin, Treasurer of Endowment; and Leigh Ann Crimmings, Rotary Club of Concord President, 2017-18.
In June the Concord Rotary Charitable Endowment, presented a check for $20,000 to the Scholarship Fund of Concord and Carlisle to support students with financial assistance in pursuing their education. Each year Concord Rotarians host a golf tournament to raise monies for scholarships, administered by the Scholarship Fund of Concord and Carlisle. Thanks to the generous support of players and donors, including platinum sponsors Emerson Hospital, Barrett/Southey’s International Realty (the Maurer/Widell Team) and Deaconess Abundant Life Services, three high school graduating seniors and three in-college students received Rotary Scholarships.
Alex Hamel received the Interact Scholarship, representing the Interact (Rotary) Club at CCHS. . Alex will be attending the University of Maryland (College Park) to pursue a pre-med career. A National Honors Society member at CCHS, he was a co-captain of the football team and the baseball team. He was a member of the Interact Club and the Hiking Club, and was a teaching assistant to a chemistry teacher during senior year.
Jasmil Santana plans to attend Salem State College to study nursing and psychology. She was a member of the cheerleading squad and did volunteer work at Rosie's Place, Children First UNICEF, and Teen Buddies.
Nicholas Gallant plans to study mechanical engineering at Drexel University. He was one of the founders of the Improv Club and had an internship this spring semester at Brown Aviation in Maynard to learn about entrepreneurship.
Nicholas Gallant plans to study mechanical engineering at Drexel University. He was one of the founders of the Improv Club and had an internship this spring semester at Brown Aviation in Maynard to learn about entrepreneurship.
Nicholas Wilbur, winner of the Huckins Memorial Scholarship, is entering his senior year at Wheaton College, and will spend the entire year studying abroad in Italy where he will be taking classes at the University of Florence. Following graduation he plans to enroll in an American law school.
Katherine Williams, winner of the Hale Scholarship for the second time, will be a sophomore at the University of New Hampshire. She plans to pursue a career in nursing. Katie volunteers at Buddy Dog Humane Society and will be serving on a 14-day community service trip in Thailand where she will be taking care of elephants at a sanctuary, helping local farmers, and teaching children English.
Abigail Yamartino, winner of the Eaton Memorial Scholarship for the second time, is entering her sophomore year at Loyola University where she is studying to be an elementary school teacher with a focus on less advantaged communities. During her freshman year at Loyola, Abby engaged in various clubs including the Women’s Club Soccer Team. Through her education classes she was able to do volunteer work in the surrounding communities.
The kids loved it and so did we! Lexington Rotarian Don Martini demonstrated what a drone can do out in the open fields at the Boys and Girls Club of Assabet Valley. More sky-play....,kite flying, balls in the air, and a lot of little girls doing cart-wheels. The Concord Rotarians always have fun when they put on events for these great kids. Who cares about the heat on July 16 when the breeze is blowing and there is Ice Cream from Reasons to Be Cheerful?
Flying Fun Day at Assabet Valley Boys & Girls Club
Rotarians and their guests enjoyed perfect weather for the 30th annual Thomas R. Huckins Memorial Golf Tournament June 25. 16 wounded post 911 New England Veterans were sponsored guests for this annual scholarship fundraiser. The veterans, referred by the Salute Military Golf Association, played along with the Rotarians in a spirited Bramble format at the heralded Concord Country Club. Thanks to our sponsors, among them platinum sponsors Emerson Hospital, Barrett/Southey’s International Realty (the Maurer/Widell Team) and Deaconess Abundant Life Services, the Rotary Club of Concord will be underwriting scholarships for graduating seniors and continuing college students in the coming academic year.Thanks also to the tee and green sponsors, the donors of the auction items and those who made cash donations to support the scholars.
Welcome Ryan Kane, to the Rotary Club of Concord. Ryan's installation was held May 10, 2018 at Rotary's luncheon at the Colonial Inn. We look forward to having Ryan among our members! Here he is with President Leigh Ann Crimmings.
Concord Rotarian Nick Krol (right) met Rotary International President Ian Riseley at the Multi-District Summit in New Hampshire May 5, 2018. Enthusiasm for Rotary's great mission ran high at the event.
Gene and JP Comella of Comella's Restaurant in Concord attended the Rotary meeting April 26 to present a check to the Stella Rosie Foundation, thanks to the efforts of the Concord Carlisle Interact Club who sponsored a fund-raiser through Camilla's this month. Started by Concord Rotarian Florence Goulet, the Stella Rosie Foundation transforms lives of Ugandan youth by helping them obtain an education.
On April 14th, Concord Rotarians Karl Kussin, Chris Alphen, and Leigh Ann Crimmings met along Cambridge Turnpike in Concord to clean up the road. This long-standing annual service project felt a bit easier this year, as the area didn't look as littered as it has in the past. Perhaps this was due to the many years we have been participating in this project. Or maybe there is a shift in society for the better that keeps people from littering as much as they used to. But still, we filled up 5 large trash bags with debris, keeping all that trash out of the wetlands along the Mill Brook and Crosby Pond!
This simple service project is something that means so much and makes such a big difference. And although there were only 3 of us out there today, it is my hope that we will inspire others to do their part as well.
I would challenge all Rotarians, and all non-Rotarians to participate in cleaning up their environment and doing their part. Imagine if everyone who walked the beach in the summertime filled a small, plastic shopping bag with litter. The beach would be pristine, the wildlife safer, and the water less polluted. Of course, this could also be done while walking in the woods, or even on city streets. It is the simplest of service projects that takes no planning or organization and can be done with just one person - or any size group of people. Sending my sincerest thanks to anyone who will join me, wherever you may go! When we collectively take baby steps, we can move mountains (of trash)!
Rotarians and their guests enjoyed an evening of music and more at its 43rd Annual Pops night with the Concord Band Friday, April 6. President Elect Henry Dane kicked off the evening with introductory remarks, sparked by a quick bike ride across center stage by President Leigh Ann Crimmings. It was a great way to introduce folks to Rotary and its many facets, and to support Concord's upcoming Minuteman Bike Share Program. The bulletin board displayed photos of some of our Club's many activities this past year.
At District 7910's "Celebrating Our Rotary Heroes Service Awards", Concord Rotarian Dave Robertson was presented with a Paul Harris +2, along with a dashing t-shirt and a certificate declaring him Concord's Hero. Nominated by President. Leigh Ann, Dave's list of contributions of time and know-how highlighted what a tremendous difference he has made to the Club, especially to our service to youth. He has been our RYLA champion, has sponsored multiple events for the the Boys and Girls Club and Minuteman Arc, and has inspired daughter Sarah to do great things as well, notably for the Stella Rosie Foundation. We salute you Dave, for this well-deserved honor. Photo: Dave with Dist. Foundation Chair Sanjay Deshpande, Concord Rotary President Leigh Ann Crimmings and Dist. Gov. Karin Gaffney.
Dave Robertson named Rotary Club of Concord's Hero
Despite 20+ inches of snow coming down hard, Henry Dane, Steve Kirk, Sue Kirk and Steve Kirk made it to Bristol Lodge Tuesday Mar. 13 to cook dinner for a hungry crowd. Now that's Rotary spirit!
It was hard to tell who had more fun...the kids or the Rotarian kids at heart, when the RC of Concord put on a Winter Festival with Bingo, Dodge Ball and Pinata's at the Boys and Girls Club of Assabet Valley. Over 80 peppy kids enjoyed the Teacake's St. Patrick's inspired cake, took home prizes, and used up a lot of energy (theirs and ours!). Thanks to Sharon Spaulding and Dave Robertson plus many more volunteers for pulling off this energetic event. Photo: Dave makes it tough to hit that piñata! The Bingo Team at work.
The Rotary Club of Concord invites you to its 43nd Annual Pops Night featuring the Concord Band with popular jazz singer/songwriter Amanda Carr on April 6, 2018 at 8 p.m. at The Performing Arts Center, 51 Walden Street in Concord. The doors open at 7:00 p.m. for you to enjoy refreshments and browse the silent auction. The pops-style table seating offers you a chance to unwind and visit with friends. Tickets at $30 each may be purchased online at https://secure.qgiv.com/for/crp or by calling Dick Hale at 978-394-5158. All seats are reserved. Proceeds benefit Concord’s new Minuteman Bike-Share and other service programs.
Concord Rotarians and friends hosted a Winter Carnival at Minuteman Arc Feb. 24. Many guests enjoyed the games…basketball, softball pitch, throw the ring on the duck, pin the tail on the donkey, painting, football, and more! Dick Hale made the popcorn and Sarah Robertson brought friends to help decorate. Many thanks to Dave Robertson for organizing this popular event. Photo: Peter Mahler refereed the basketball.
At Rotary's Feb. 8 meeting President. Leigh Ann Crimmings presented Noel Choquette with a Certificate of Appreciation. Citing Noel's leadership, organizational skills, attention to detail, sales initiatives and never-ending hard work, she noted his role as co-chair of the Pops, and his invaluable help with Oktoberfest, among other projects. Watch out Noel....the reward for good work is more work! Congratulations.
NOEL CHOQUETTE AWARDED CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION
Among the many useful items developed and improved for use in disaster areas is this solar lamp, that turns many colors, sends signals, and provides light and safety for people in areas with no electricity or light.
At our Feb.15 Rotary meeting, Katherine Fick, member of the ShelterBox Response Team talked about her role responding to many disasters for ShelterBox. Among these were Dominican Republic (Hurricanes Irma and Maria), Peru (floods and mudslides) and Malawi (rural floods) and Paraguay (urban floods). Her first-hand experiences expanded our appreciation of the very necessary work done by ShelterBox. Katherine thanked the club for the $10,000 donation from the proceeds of Oktoberfest 2017, and presented the Club with a certificate recognizing the Rotary Club of Concord as a ShelterBox hero. The $10,000 will purchase 10 ShelterBoxes or 100 ShelterKits.
At the Club meeting Feb. 8, Michelle Vaughn, LICSW, presented an informative talk about the Walden Street School, located in Concord Center. The school is a residential treatment facility for teenaged girls who have experienced trauma by their caregivers or in the community. Michelle explained developmental trauma and overviewed Walden's cutting edge treatment tailored to each girl's needs. Before enrolling at Walden, many of their 32 students had never taken part in extra-curricular activities. Vaughn invited the Rotary Club of Concord to partner with Walden in offering the students opportunities for community service. In the past, the Rotary Club of Concord has worked with Walden on such projects as farming outdoors at Gaining Ground.
Michelle Vaughn, Director, The Walden Street School
In addition to speaking of his experience as a polio survivor, Steve Verrill became a Paul Harris Fellow at the Rotary luncheon January 11. Members applauded Steve's generous support of the club's many activities, citing his hosting of Oktoberfest and donations of fresh vegetables for Bristol Lodge as but a few of his many contributions. Here is Steve receiving his award from President Leigh Ann.
A small but mighty crew of four prepared and served over 70 guests at Bristol Lodge Soup Kitchen Jan. 9, 2018. Here they are, whipping up the potatoes and meatloaf. Bravo!
Reveling members of the Rotary Club of Concord celebrated at our Holiday Party Dec. 14 at Newbury Court. Nothing tops our lusty rendition of The Twelve Days of Christmas unless it would be Steve Verrill's Twelve Days of Christmas tie. See it here!
The Rotary Club of Concord sent 17 guests to the District Holiday Party, a lively cocktail reception held at the Colonial Inn on Sunday Dec. 10. The Inn looked festive, with the snow reflecting outdoor holiday lights and sparkling centerpieces and linen-covered chairs setting the mood indoors. Rev. John Lombard gave a moving invocation, President Leigh Ann Crimmings welcomed the crowd of over 100 with a brief overview of our club, and Sharon Spaulding brought Wendy Rocco from Operation American Soldier to talk about their mission to send packages to servicemen. The presentation of special awards and introduction of distinguished guests highlighted Rotarians deep commitment to service above self. Congratulations to District Governor Karin Gaffney for sponsoring such an elegant, inspiring evening.
On Nov. 16 the Rotary Club of Concord hosted the Rotary Club of Bedford, along with the senior football players and cheerleaders, coaches and administrators from both high schools at our traditional Football lunch. Guest speaker Bill Barrett, Superior Court Judge and son of Rotarian Jane Barrett, inspired the groups, sharing memories of his days on the Bowl winning CCHS team and offering advice about life after football. The Concord Carlisle team posed for this shot.
Our Annual Football Banquet with Rotary Club of Bedford
A team of expert chefs from the Rotary Club of Concord prepared and served dinner to hungry guests at Bristol Lodge Community Supper Soup Kitchen November 14. Here are Dick and Nancy Nelson chopping fresh vegetables donated by Steve Verrill.
Congratulations to Rotarian Frank Rigg, who received Paul Harris +4 recognition at Rotary's luncheon meeting Nov. 30. Thank you Frank for all you do for our club and to support the work of Rotary worldwide.
Our first guests line up for a hot chocolate treat at Rotary's Hot Chocolate booth on Dec. 3, 2017. Rotarians greeted many townsfolk as people roamed the streets, waved to Santa on the fire truck, and sang carols while the Rotary-donated tree was lit to herald the season.
The Rotary Club of Concord had a variety of presenters on Nov. 2. We celebrated World Interact Week with several Interact speakers. Here Cynthia Sibold of the Wellsely Club spoke of their "Peer Leadership & Depression Prevention" initiative. (read on to learn more)
Hard to know who had more fun...the kids or the Concord Rotarians. On Oct. 5 we hosted a Fall Festival at the Boys and Girls Club of Assabet Valley. Organized by Dave Robertson and Sharon Spaulding, the activities included pumpkin decorating (thanks Steve Verrill for the pumpkins), shuffle board, board games, rope jumping, caramel apples, pie-eating (thanks Steve Verrill for the pies), coloring, and more. These girls were experts at eating without their hands and without getting apples on their noses!
Rotary Hosts Fall Festival for Boys & Girls Club
On Sunday, Oct. 15, the Concord-Carlisle Interact Club, the Minuteman Regional Vocational Technical High School Interact Club, the Carlisle Interact/Early Act Club and Rotarians from Lexington and Concord packed meals through Rise Against Hunger. Held at Minuteman High School, 52 kids and a few adults packed 15,500 meals in two hours! Here are Concord Rotarians Dick Nelson and Sharon Spaulding in their formal meal-packing garb.
A fabulous time was had by all at the Rotary Club of Concord’s second annual Oktoberfest! Once again, the Rotary Club of Concord organized and hosted an Oktoberfest themed fundraiser at Verrill Farm, and ticket sales were up, the bands were great, and the beer was flowing! The Mad Bavarian Brass Band started off the day with Oompah Cheer by performing Oktoberfest classics, “Ein Prosit” and “Roll Out the Barrel”. The Somerville Symphony Orkestar graced us once again with their high-energy horns. And the crowd was treated to great rock n roll from Eliza and the Organix, and two of the 6 members of the iconic local band of artists, Jaggery!
Concord Rotarians’ hearts sank as misty cold descended upon Verrill Farm, They rose again as wave after wave of hearty families arrived to celebrate Oktoberfest, warming up with lively music, craft beer, games, and food. Enthusiasm for the Shelter Box, recipient of the proceeds, ran high. Final numbers are not in yet, but the Rotary Club of Concord is confident that those whose homes have been destroyed by recent hurricanes will benefit greatly from Oktoberfest 2017.
At the Sept. 21 Rotary meeting, Rebecca Obounov told us about her organization, CHES (Christian Haitian Entrepreneurial Society) and its latest project in Haiti. In August, CHES began working with 50 entrepreneurs from a community in Southern Haiti who lost their livelihoods in the aftermath of the Oct. 2016 Hurricane Matthew. This community requested CHES' assistance in launching a poultry farm. CHES has launched the first phase of a three-year engagement with the community involving training, financial assistance, coaching, mentoring, monitoring and evaluation. Rebecca's broad and practical approach has helped many Haitians develop skills that secure an enduring livelihood. Learn more at chesinternational.org Paul D'Oliveira introduced Rebecca.
Raising Chickens, Selling Eggs, A Community Helps Itself
At the Sept. 7 meeting of the Rotary Club of Concord Filmmaker Marion Abrams shared a short segment of her documentary "Flood Bound" and reflected on a small town's experience after a disaster. Abrams was living in Pittsfield Vt. when Tropical Storm Irene flooded the town of 500, destroying homes and completely cutting it off from civilization. Pittsfield had no power, no phone service, nothing...for many months. Abrams' film demonstrates what we now find happening again...that "first responders" are the neighbors who show up to help...right away. They know what is needed and how to help. Speaking of how to help, Rotarians found a way to achieve the audio for Abram's documentary when her speakers would not work...they simply moved the podium and mike closer to her computer. Here she is, acknowledging the applause for an inspiring and timely presentation.
"Flood Bound" in the wake of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma
2016-2017 7910 District Co-Governers Pat and Skip Doyle presented the Rotary Club of Concord with the District's "Promoting Rotary Award" on Aug. 24, 2017. Thanks to the many club members who throughout the year promoted Rotary through their continuing service to our community, our youth and our world. As our speakers for the day, Pat and Skip presented an overview of the Visioning process. Keep tuned for more about "our vision." Photo: Pat and Skip with Concord Pres. Leigh Ann Crimmings.
Light rain didn't stop Concord Rotarians and friends from enjoying the hospitality of Susan Dee and Mark Johnson. With tables lined up in their spotless three-car garage and a few pop-up tents protecting the food, everyone enjoyed the fellowship and feast despite the weather. The feast included lobsters, steak, corn from Verrill Farm, yummy appetizers, salads,desserts, and plenty to drink. Steve Kirk topped off the evening with a special presentation to our honored volunteer, Sarah Robertson. As everyone clapped, the sun came out!
SUMMER OUTING AT SUSAN DEE AND MARK JOHNSON'S HOME
At Concord's Sizzling Sidewalk Saturday July 22, in front of Middlesex Bank, the Rotary Club of Concord displayed a ShelterBox tent and announced its campaign to raise money to purchase 20 ShelterBoxes at a cost of $1,000 each. ShelterBox is a Rotary partner that provides emergency housing to those displaced by natural disaster or conflict. Here Doug (far right) and Ingrid Detweiler (second from left) pose with some visitors who are learning about ShelterBox for the first time. Concord Rotarians will be displaying the ShelterBox tent at multiple town events to answer questions about this life-saving initiative and to invite the public to Oktoberfest Sept. 30 at Verrill Farm. Proceeds from Oktoberfest will go to ShelterBox. See concordrotaryokoberfest.com and shelter box.org
Close to 70 boys and girls ages 7 - 14 participated in the Rotary-sponsored Field Day at the Assabet Valley Boys and Girls Club on July 18. Sharon Spaulding, Dave Robertson and Rick Copland organized a great event. Rick made Rotary-themed 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place stands where the winners of each event stood for applause and photos. Here is Steve Levitsky explaining the first race. With sunny skies and enthusiastic Rotarians, the day topped the charts for fun and sportsmanship. The kids gave a rousing thank you that echoed through Maynard!
The Rotary Club of Concord served burgers and hot dogs with picnic fixins to guests at Bristol Lodge Soup Kitchen July 11. Here two famous Rotary cooks, Rick and Pete, show off potato salad they did not make. Rotarians are invited to a Volunteer Appreciation Dinner Sept. 20 at the American Legion in Waltham.
The Fourth of July Picnic in the Park would not be complete without Rotary's "Slush Stand." Slush is red, white or blue shaved ice in a cup, with flavors to match the colors. This year we served from our new tent. We also displayed a Shelter Box to introduce picnic-attendees to this temporary shelter with life saving supplies to help families displaced by disasters. Thanks to everyone who helped and everyone who bought "slush." See you next year.
Concord Rotarians Doug Detweiler, June Grace and Ruth Armknecht met leaders from the Rotary Club of Parklands Kenya at the Rotary International Convention in Atlanta on June 12. The Concord and Parklands Clubs joined forces to build wells and latrines in Kenya under a Rotary Foundation grant. We were thrilled to meet our Rotarian partners face to face, thanks to Ingrid Detweiler, who arranged the meeting. There were 42,000 people at the convention, so finding one another was no small feat!
Concord Rotarians meet Rotarians of Parklands Kenya at RI Convention
Dick Hale, Doug and Ingrid Detweiler, Frank Chen, Dave Robertson and members of the Concord Integrated Preschool Playground Steering Committee manned a Rotary booth at the First Annual Middlesex Jazz Festival in Concord Center on June 4. Great way to celebrate summer, thanks to the Concord Rec. Department!
The Rotary Club of Concord welcomed Linda Maxwell of Premier Properties of New England to membership on June 1. Henry Dane sponsored Linda, who is shown here proudly displaying a copy of the Four Way Test. Welcome aboard Linda!
Dr. Elmer M. Purcell. He was a man tall in stature, principles and compassion, a doctor beloved by his patients as a physician who was more than just a doctor. They knew him as a friend, a counselor and advisor as well. His family remembers his gentle nature, his love of storytelling, his pure delight in, and unwavering devotion to, them. Dr. Elmer M. Purcell, Jr. died peacefully at his home on June 18 at the age of 92. (See more below)
Rotarians from Concord and Lexington served lunch to vets and their families at the VA Hospital in Bedford on Memorial Day. Raccatore's Ice Cream donated sundaes...delicious. Why are these Rotarians wearing Concord aprons? Because they don't want to spill hot fudge on their shirts!
On Saturday, May 27, Rotary and Minuteman Arc went Bowling. Enthusiastic and sometimes very skilled bowlers kept us all cheering. We had pizza in a party room, and went home smiling.
DEAN'S OBITUARY AS IT APPEARED IN THE BOSTON GLOBE MAY 31, 2017
BENEDICT, Rev. Dean E. Age 79 of Concord and Clearwater, FL formerly of Hudson and Batavia, NY passed away on May 29, 2017. Husband of Vivian (Fisher) Fanton-Benedict and the late Jean (Learned) Benedict. Father of Rebecca L. Appel and her husband Charles of Hudson and David C. Benedict and his wife Catherine of Norwell. Stepfather of Wray Fanton and his wife Tara of Pittsburgh, PA and Troy Fanton and his wife Cindy of Acton. Also survived by his grandchildren Brianna and Colleen Benedict, Abigail and Maggie Appel and Lillian Fanton. Burial will follow at Forestvale Cemetery, Hudson. Donations in his memory may be made to the Transportation Fund, Shriners Hospital for Children , 51 Blossom St., Boston, MA 02114. To share a memory or offer a condolence visit: www.concordfuneral.com.
The Golf Tournament came off splendidly despite a rather cold and drizzly day. Thanks to everyone who sponsored, played, and volunteered. See http://concord.wickedlocal.com/news/20170522/building-community-annual-golf-tournament-helps-concord-students-pay-for-college. (Concord Journal story)
When the shotgun signals the beginning of the Rotary Club of Concord’s 29th Annual Golf Tournament May 22 at the Concord Country Club, a foursome of post 9/11 disabled war veterans will be among the players. The veterans were referred by the Salute Military Golf Association, Boston (SMGA Boston), an organization that “empowers wounded veterans, one fairway at a time.” Jerry Shanahan, a dedicated SMGA volunteer, spoke at a recent Rotary meeting. He described how SMGA provides rehabilitative golf programs, experiences and family inclusive golf opportunities for post 9/11 wounded vets, including those with PTSD and traumatic brain injury. The program has vastly improved the quality of life for participating veterans. The Rotary Club realized it could help by inviting sponsors to underwrite the $250 fee for a veteran to play in its tournament. If you are interested in sponsoring a veteran to play, please contact Joe Saia, 978-369-3872 or joe@westconcordliquors.com.
The Rotary Club of Concord recently welcomed two new members: Jennifer Silverstone of Carlisle and Timothy Hult of Concord. Each brings an impressive history of service to others that will enhance our club's ability to achieve a high level of community involvement. May you find your experience as a Rotarian enriching and enjoyable, Jennifer and Tim!
The Concord Band with guest soloist vocalist/trumpeter Christine Fawson played to a full house at the Rotary Club of Concord’s 42nd Spring Pops April 7. Thanks to the many volunteers, ad sponsors, auction donors and the partnership with the Concord Integrated Preschool Playground, Rotary will be able to make a substantial contribution to the playground funding. Even Paramount’s filming of “Daddy’s Home 2” across Walden Street during the concert added to the excitement with fake but convincing Christmas scenes lighting the way for our guests. In this photo of Christine Fawson taken by Maia Kennedy you can almost hear her rousing rendition of Night and Day.
Its hard to resist the many tempting items up for bid at the Pops for a Playground concert April 7. To name a few: Red Sox tickets, Nashoba Brook bread once a week for six months, Kids Night Out at the Thoreau Club, Tour of the State House with Rep. Cory Atkins, Tour of the JF Kennedy Library, Hand crafted jewelry, Party for 20 at the Gymnastics Academy of Boston in Acton. And then there is the Live Auction: 10 days at a private cottage in Scotland, and two airfare tickets from jetBlue. Take a look at this video for a glance at the offering.
Like Jazz? Or the vibes of New Orleans? Maybe even a Bach fugue? You can hear it all, played by one of the most prestigious community bands in the country. The award-winning Concord Band, with singer/trumpeter Christine Fawson, will present a rocking Spring Pops concert Friday April 7 and Saturday April 8 at Concord’s Center for the Performing Arts, “51 Walden”. The Rotary Club of Concord is sponsoring Friday night’s performance to benefit the Concord Integrated Preschool Playground and Saturday night’s concert will benefit the Band. Reservations for the pops-style seating may be made for Friday night by calling 978-394-5158.
Concord Rotarians act to bring constructive change! This spring two Rotary events will positively impact our community—on April 7, “Pops for a Playground”, to support the Concord Integrative Preschool Playground, and on May 22, the“Thomas R. Huckins Memorial Golf Tournament”to support need-based scholarships for local students. Learn more. Click on Pops and Golf Tournament in the menu bar above. (On your mobile device, rotaryclubofconcord.org, click on the blue box of three white lines in the upper right corner.) Join in the fun.
Casey Atkins, Co-chair of the Concord Integrated Preschool Playground, brought fresh understanding of the need for a playground "Where ALL Kids Can Play" to early birds at the Sunrise Satellite Meeting Feb. 7. She will be presenting details of the initiative at Rotary's lunch meeting Feb. 16. Proceeds from Rotary's April 7 Pops as well as hands-on work by Rotarian volunteers will help make the playground a reality. To learn more visit the Pops page by clicking on Pops in the menu.
Here is Casey chatting with Rotarian Hilary Taylor at the Sunrise meeting.
CASEY ATKINS TALKS ABOUT A VERY SPECIAL PLAYGROUND
You can get an early start on your golf game by playing in the Rotary Club of Concord's Tournament May 22, 2017 at the Concord Country Club. Check out the Link (no pun intended) to Golf page for everything you need to know...or call Joe Saia, 978-369-3872.
On Jan. 31 Steve Glines of the Littleton Club showed an entertaining video of his trip to Seoul Korea including highlights of the Rotary International Convention. He included a preview of the upcoming Rotary International Convention to be held this year in Atlanta from June 10 - 14. Thanks for getting up early to meet with us at our Sunrise Satellite meeting Steve.
Doug Shattuck, Concord Middle School Teacher, Former Rotarian and winner of the Teacher of the Year award from the MA Technology/Engineering Collaborative spoke to the Sunrise Club Jan. 24. All MA middle schools must offer an engineering curriculum and Doug certainly designed a hands-on experience for students. In collaboration with MIT's Laboratory for Atomistic and Molecular Mechanics and the electron microscope company JEOL, Concord Middle School students studied complex web construction, investigating properties of spider webs for mechanical properties such as strength. The students gave a poster presentation of their findings at a scientific symposium where the audience was unaware that they were Middle School students! Photo: Douglas Shattuck
Rotarian and Concord Police Chief Joseph O'Connor updated the Club on many facets of the Concord Police Department's activities, including a recent Open House for the public, the current opioid situation and related addiction issues, the approach the Department uses in handling social issues, the fact that the Department now has a part-time social worker and the friendly outreach from police to children, giving citations for good behavior. In the future, O'Connor will tell us about the Concord Police Academy, open to Concord citizens, and recently attended by Doug Detweiler.
Rotary was privileged to host two speakers this week named John. On Tuesday, Jan. 10, John Connor (shown here with Leigh Ann Crimmings), Mortgage Loan Officer at TD Bank, updated us on the housing industry and answered questions about buying and selling residential property. On Thursday author John Harrison previewed his soon-to-be released novel, "Fighting Back" that deals with the human trafficking occurring in our own back yards. Both meetings proved to be fun AND educational.
John Fosset, founder of Concord Carlisle Community Connections, spoke at the Rotary meeting Dec. 29 about the career-focused mentoring program for high school students at CCHS. Now in its fourth year, the program has forged a connection between high school students and local professionals, with the aim of sharing knowledge and experiences that would enrich the lives of both parties. John's examples of student-mentor relationships included one where Rotarian Peter Mahler has served as a mentor. Peter shared his very positive experience as a program participant. Here is Fosset, emphasizing an important point!
John Fosset talks about Concord Carlisle Community Connections
Members of the Rotary Club of Concord and their guests celebrated the season with cocktails and dinner at Newbury Court Dec. 15. Informality prevailed as we chatted, feasted, toasted award-winners and sang on tune! Here are Chris and Erin Sintros (left) and Mike Lacorcia and his wife. Take a look at "Christmas Neckties" under Photo Albums in the right column to see leaders in men's fashions.
For a joyful start to your Holiday Season come to the Rotary Club of Concord's Party on Dec. 15 at 5:30 p.m. at Newbury Court. Friends and family are invited. A Rotary meeting with a twist.
On Dec. 4 our young Rotary volunteers helped serve hot chocolate at Concord's Holiday Stroll. Over 1,000 servings were handed out, thanks to the generosity of Dunkin' Donuts. Every year the crowds get larger!
The Rotary Club of Concord welcomed Elda Kalivioti, Branch Manager of Cambridge Trust, to membership at our Dec. 8 luncheon meeting. Here she is (in the pink jacket) with members of the induction team, from left, Dick Levinson, Phyllis Maurer, Hilary Taylor, Elda, Steve Levitsky, and Dick Hale.
Everyone agreed, this was a great way to spend the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Now an annual tradition, the Rotary Club of Concord treats our friends from Minuteman Arc to some exercise and some pizza. Kevin is a great coach!
The Rotary Clubs of Concord and Bedford held their annual joint meeting to celebrate the friendly back-yard competition between our high school football teams on Thanksgiving. Here are the Concord Carlisle football team and cheerleader seniors who joined us for lunch at the Bedford Glen Doubletree Hotel on Nov. 22.
The USS Concord Bell arrived right on time at 11 a.m. November 18 and has been installed just in time for its Dedication. You are invited to attend the ceremony Saturday November 19 at 2 p.m. at the Veterans' Memorial on Main Street in Concord Center. An historic community project by the Rotary Club of Concord!
The Rotary Club of Concord invites the public to the Dedication Ceremony of the USS Concord Bell’s Installation and the rejuvenation of the Veterans’ Memorial in Concord Center at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 19, 2016. The project was conceived by the Rotary Club over 15 years ago, revived in 2012, and now, with the generous support of the Town of Concord Community Preservation Fund and help from many experts, donors and volunteers, has finally become a reality.
The USS Concord was an Omaha Class light cruiser serving in the North and South Pacific during World War II. While Concord has the distinction of firing the first shot of the Revolutionary War, the USS Concord has the distinction of firing the last shot of World War II in the Sea of Okhotsk on August 15, 1945. The casualties of that conflict are memorialized on Concord’s Common.
The USS Concord was launched in 1921. Pleased that the US Navy was naming a vessel “Concord”, a consortium of Concord citizens commissioned sculptor Daniel Chester French to create a reduced-sized version of his statue, “Concord Minuteman of 1775” for the ship. The smaller adaptation is now at the Concord Museum. The Bell itself, presented to the Town of Concord in 1947, first resided at the Concord Free Public Library. It was then moved to the basement of the Town House in 2003 where it remained virtually unseen until the present.
Rain didn’t dampen the spirits of folks who celebrated the Rotary Club of Concord’s Oktoberfest at Verrill Farm Oct. 22. Seen here are a few who ignored New England’s weather for a good time:
Have fun at Oktoberfest, rain or shine. The “Mad Bavarian Brass Band”, a New England favorite, will circulate among the crowd playing traditional polkas, sing-alongs and happy music of all kinds. “I am Not a Gun’ will open on stage at 11:00 a.m. featuring Larry Keegan on guitar, Josh Dwyer on bass and Jonathan Chiros on drums. “The Angry Tides” will play at noon. This small band out of Billerica features David Blois on bass and lead vocals, Dave Saulnier on lead guitar and Justin Desilva on drums. “Fireking” will take the stage from 1:00 – 2:30. Lead Vocalist and Manager Anthony Kacznski describes the band’s genre as royal rock. Backing Anthony are bass guitarist Drew Morrison and drummer Smitt E. Smitty. Closing from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m., the creative “Somerville Symphony Orkestar” plays all-original Eastern European punk at many area festivals, including Boston’s First Night. Six members, Joel Edinberg, Pete Fanelli, Travis Pullman, Richey Tally, Matt Ellis and Penelope come up with a joyful Klezmer sound. Hear it live. Sample beer. Eat German food. www.rotaryclubofconcordoktoberfest.com.
Rotary International District 7910 Governors Pat and Skip Doyle visited the Concord Club to update us on new approaches Rotary International is taking to help clubs vitalize membership. The Doyles also shared their own goals for clubs in the district, and invited everyone to attend the multi-district conference in Providence Rhode Island in April. Our Assistant Governor and former Concord Rotarian Bob Guernsey (R) is seen here with Pat, Skip and President Steve Kirk.
Julia Rayberg, CEO of Worthy Village, an organization building pathways out of poverty for women and children in Guatemala, recently spoke to Concord Rotarians about a service trip Worthy Village has designed specifically for Rotarians. To date, Julia has spoken to Rotary Clubs in Mansfield, Arlington, Lexington, and will be speaking to clubs in Fall River and Weymouth MA. The trip is from Feb. 4 - 11, 2017 to beautiful Lake Atitlan. See details on the flyer in "Club Information". Shown: Florence Goulet and Julia Rayberg. .
Every other month, Concord Rotarians travel to Waltham to prepare a meal for the homeless, sponsored by Bristol Lodge. On Sept. 13, we prepared our fall menu featuring meatloaf, roasted vegetables, and salad prepared under the supervision of Chef John Dow. The guests consumed every morsel.
Sat. Oct. 22 is almost here! Get your tickets early for a discount -- $25 online, $35 at the door. Kids under 12 free. 12 - 21, $5. Check in at www.concordrotaryoktoberfest.com. It's Rotary Club of Concord's first Oktoberfest celebration, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. at Verrill Farm. Thanks to our sponsors, vendors, community groups, breweries, and bands for providing fun for everyone!
OKTOBERFEST - Saturday, October 22 at Verrill Farm
Aug. 22, the day after Concord's surprise tornado, golfers enjoyed beautiful weather as they took to the links at Rotary's Thomas R. Huckins Memorial Golf Tournament. The event raised money for the Scholarship Fund of Concord and Carlisle (CCSF). Since becoming a community affiliate of CCSF in 2006 Rotary has awarded 96 scholarships totaling $173,606. Proceeds from the 2016 tournament will increase that total. We credit the tournament’s success to support from sponsors, golfers and volunteers. Special thanks to our Platinum Sponsors, Emerson Hospital, Hammond Residential Realty and Newbury Court. Tee and green sponsors are listed below at "read more."
Members of the Rotary Club of Concord sponsored a Soccer Clinic for the Boys and Girls Club of Assabet Valley on
August 17. Organized by Rotarians Rick Copland and Dave Robertson, the event featured age-appropriate drills, hands-on personal instruction, a cookout, and lots of fun for everyone. 50 area kids attended and they want another clinic! They loved it. So did we.
Photo: Rick Copland and Dave Robertson resting up after the clinic.
Two days after the Golf Tournament, Rotarians grilled burgers and hotdogs and served a cookout for over 100 guests at the Council on Aging at the Harvey Wheeler Community Center. John Dow presided at the grill with the assistance of Chip Bogosian, Marvin Thomas, Suzanne Greenough, Steve Kirk and many others. Lots of fun for Rotarians and the Council on Aging guests alike! Photo: John Dow and Chip Bogosian managed to keep the fire from burning the meat!
The Sunrise Satellite meeting of the Rotary Club of Concord hosted an incredibly dedicated young woman at their Aug. 16 2016 meeting. 14-year-old Kylee McCumber of Leominster told how, at age 10, she provided 10 students who were receiving subsidized meals during the school week with food for the weekends. Now her non-profit organization, Kylee’s Kare Kits for Kidz, feeds over 300 children on a weekly basis. Learn more at www.kyleeskarekitsforkidz.org. We will be holding a food drive for Kylee soon. Photo: Kylee shows off a Kylee Kit at the Rotary meeting.
AUGUST 22 IS IT! TOURNAMENT DAY. PUT YOUR CLUBS IN THE TRUNK OF YOUR CAR AND HEAD OUT FOR THE CONCORD COUNTRY CLUB TO HELP ROTARY RAISE $ FOR SCHOLARSHIPS, AND WIN SOME AWESOME PRIZES. NOT ALL GOLF-RELATED. PATRIOT'S TICKETS WITH LIMO TO THE STADIUM, MAKE YOUR OWN PIZZA AT AN OUTDOOR PIZZA OVEN, RED SOX TIX, WINE AND BEER, LUNCH, DINNER, LAUGHS....GOOD TIME, GREAT CAUSE. SEE YOU THERE.
Hot weather never stopped our expert cooks...Rick Beers and crew (lobsters, corn, potato salad, veggie salad, rolls and more), John Dow at the grill for the steaks, Jerry Paolilli grilling skewered lamb, Joe Saia setting up the bar, Peter Mahler with Concord Teacakes cupcakes and the many members who brought appetizers and desserts. Thanks to Steve Verrill for the tender corn. A beautiful evening of fellowship. Rotarians know how to have a good time! Let's do this again!
Here comes a fun event. Our Annual Summer Outing. To be held Thursday, July 28 at the home of Rick and Joan Beers’ (The Inn on the Horse Farm). 277 Old Sudbury Road in Sudbury. Cocktails and social hour start at 5 p.m. Lobsters and steak served at 6 p.m. In addition corn from Verrill Farm and potato salad will be supplied. Bring an appetizer or dessert to add to the menu if you like. This is a beautiful location with lots of room for the kids to roam, horses to pet, golf cart rides, and a chance to “have fun” as we promised we would in our very own Club Vision! PLEASE LET DICK HALE KNOW ASAP THAT YOU ARE ATTENDING. sjpaving@aol.com. See directions at "read more" below.
DON'T JUST SAVE THE DATE! REGISTER NOW!The Rotary Club of Concord's 28th Annual Thomas R. Huckins Memorial Golf Tournament will be held at the Concord Country Club on Monday, August 22 to benefit Student Scholarships and other charitable Rotary projects. The shotgun start is at 1:00 p.m. preceded by registration and lunch from 11:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. Cocktails and dinner are at 6:30 p.m. The entry fee of $250 includes 18 holes of golf, use of the putting green, golf cart, lunch, clubhouse reception and dinner, tournament gifts and refreshments. Mulligans will be available for purchase. There will be an on-site silent auction and a drawing for top-quality golf gear. Prizes will be awarded for the longest drive and closest to the pin (for men and women). And of course, a prize for a hole-in-one! Due to the success of the 2015 golf tournament, Rotary presented scholarships to four graduating high school seniors and four students who are continuing their college education. Thanks to this year's early sponsors, Emerson Hospital, Hammond Residential and Deaconess Abundant Life, we are on track for another successful event. Please click on brochure in "Downloads" to learn of sponsorship opportunities, tee & green sponsorship form to sponsor and playerregistration for a registration form. Thanks!
The Rotary Club of Concord earned "Club of the Year, Gold", awarded at the Rotary District 7910 Annual District Conference May 22, 2016. The Club also received a Polio Plus Award for its success in raising funds to stamp out polio, a Community Service Award, a Club Service Award, and an International Service Award. During the year, many Rotarians contributed their time and talent, giving "Service Above Self" to achieve this recognition. Shown here, President Sharon Spaulding receiving the traveling "big bell", already engraved with the Club's name for the second year in a row. More photos on our Facebook page.
Join the Early Act students at Carlisle Middle School Thursday evening, May 19 for a stimulating round table featuring guests from Rotarian Razia Jan's Ray of Hope discussing education for girls in Afghanistan. The Early Act Club has raised substantial funds to underwrite tuition for several girls and wants to do more. Let's help them. 5:30 until 7:00 p.m. at Carlisle Middle School.
High school students can help out their parents by attending the FINANCIAL REALITY FORUM May 24, 2016 from 4 – 5 p.m. at the Fowler Branch of the Concord Public Library, 1322 Main Street in West Concord. Sponsored jointly by the Rotary Club of Concord and the Concord Free Public Library, this hour-long event will alert teens to some important details about managing their finances. Rotarian Boris Nikitin will host the session. Free to all teens. No registration required. Refreshments, door prizes and a lot of useful information!
Concord Carlisle student Rose Piz (center) raised money for "Stop Hunger Now" thanks to her experience with Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA). At the April 28 meeting of the Rotary Club of Concord, Piz presented a check to Danielle McGrary of "Stop Hunger Now" and Bedford Rotarian Robert Cassidy that will be used for the benefit of the Rotary Club of Bedford's Food Packaging event scheduled for May 14, 2016 at Middlesex Community College. Want to volunteer? Sign up at www.bedfordMA.org/PayItForward.cfm
What a great day for a parade. Pleasantly sunny. The Rotary Club of Concord added even more sunshine as they waved to friends lining the parade route. Here we are, ready to take off at 9 a.m. April 18, 2016. Check out more photos on our Facebook page.
Are you ready for the downbeat? Rotary Pops, April 8, downbeat at 8 p.m., doors at 51 Walden open at 7:00 p.m. for refreshments, silent auction, fun with friends. Tickets $25 from Dick Hale, 508-878-6577. Table seating. Call now!
Pops Night is April 8! Make sure you have a seat at this exhilarating event. See order form in downloads on the left, or call Dick Hale, 508-878-6577. Place an ad in the keepsake program book (deadline March 31). Support Rotary. Its easy and its important! Click HERE for video on Pops 2016 !
The Rotary Club of Concord invites you to its 41th Annual Pops Night featuring renowned jazz vocalist Amanda Carr and the Concord Band on April 8, 2016 at 8 p.m. at The Performing Arts Center, 51 Walden Street, Concord. The doors open at 7:00 p.m. for guests to enjoy refreshments, browse the silent auction and find their seats. The pops-style concert with table seating offers you a chance to unwind, visit with friends, and support Rotary’s many charitable projects. Tickets are $25 a person and may be purchased by calling Dick Hale at 508-878-6577. All seats are reserved so do call before coming.
The Rotary Club of Concord made Concord Museum Curator David Wood a Paul Harris Fellow at its Feb. 25 meeting. Past President Henry Dane highlighted many of Wood's lasting contributions in preserving Concord's history and thanked him for his assistance on Rotary projects, notably the current project to display the ship's bell of the USS Concord. Past President Dick Hale presented the certificate and pin as Rotarians and guests from the Lion's Club applauded. Photo: Henry Dane (left) and David Wood
Concord Museum Curator David Wood -- Paul Harris Fellow
The First Annual Ski-a-Thon brought hearty skiers and enthusiastic fans to DCR Great Brook Farm on Feb 13 for a cross-country race to benefit education for girls in the Ivory Coast. Thanks to our sponsors, Emerson Hospital, Norel Fire Safety, Hammond Realty, and Spaulding Management LLC, and our many contributors, we were able to surpass our goal of $3,000. Here are some winners, proudly displaying their trophies.
Sat. 2/13: If you don't mind the cold weather, come out to enjoy the skiing! Conditions are very good although snow has been drifting into the tracks on the field trails. The woods trails will be better protected and have good snow cover.
Today's hours are 9-5. Please call us with your questions: 978 369-7486.
With snow on the ground and plenty of cold air, the Ski-a-Thon is on for Sat. Feb. 13. Join us to benefit your own health and the livelihood of girls in the Ivory Coast. Details on the downloads to the left of this page. Register at 9:00 a.m. Race starts at 10 a.m. Lots of awards and goodie bags. See you at the barn!
Rotary members donated winter coats, hats, boots and more to Cradles to Crayons at their meetings Jan. 26 & 28. Olivia Davis Wilson, Community Engagement Coordinator gave Rotarians an inspiring synopsis of the Cradles to Crayons operation. Cradles to Crayons provides children from birth through age 12, living in homeless or low-income situations, with the essential items they need to thrive - at home, at school and at play. They supply these items free of charge by engaging and connecting communities that have with communities that need. Here is Olivia with Rotarians Peter Mahler and Joe O'Connor, ready to load up some of the items collected for the kids.
Club President Sharon Spaulding and District Governor Jim Fusco presenting an award to past President Bob Mc Walter for 50 years of membership and 40 years of perfect attendance. Bob's brother Jack is also in the photo along with Dick Hale and Steve Levitsky. All three Mc Walter brothers were, or are, active members of The Rotary Club of Concord with a total accumulative service of 100+ years.
It’s not just another walk for a cause! It’s a SKI-A-THON (for a cause!) Gather some peppy friends, snap on your cross-country skis, and compete for a trophy in the Rotary Club of Concord’s race to support education for girls in the Ivory Coast. DCR Great Brook Farm State Part, Feb. 13, 9 a.m. See the flyer for details. Download flyer, registration form and driving directions from "Downloads" to your left on this page!
Members of the Rotary Club of Concord welcomed three new members at Rotary's Holiday Party Dec. 17, 2015. Here they are, standing for a round of enthusiastic applause with members of the induction team. From the left, long-time Concord Rotarian and Past President Dick Hale; Past President Ann Trudeau; Inductee Alan Bogosian of Alan Bogosian Electric Inc.; Inductee Mark Cotreau, Fire Chief of the Town of Concord; Inductee Joseph O'Connor, Police Chief of the Town of Concord; Past President June Grace; Past President and Past District 7910 Governor Doug Detweiler and current President Sharon Spaulding.
The Rotary Club of Concord and the Concord Free Public Library hosted a Holiday Book and Cookie Exchange Dec. 15 at the Fowler Library. Guests traded delectable cookies and intriguing volumes while enjoying seasonal music by harpist Rebecca Swett. All agreed it was a welcome respite from the holiday rush. Photo: Rotarians Erin Duggan, Kerry Cronin, and Susan Dee take a close look at Swett's harp.
Dec. 6 was a warm night, but as it grew dark, long lines formed for the delicious hot chocolate served by the Rotary Club and provided by Dunkin Donuts. Santa came by on a fire truck. Lots of kids, dogs, and Thomas the train, too. Then the beautiful tree, donated last year by the Rotary Club of Concord, sparkled with lights as the crowds sang. Here are Doug's grandchildren and their friend who kept things moving along. Future Rotarians!
The Rotary Club of Concord and the Concord Free Public Library invite the public to a festive Holiday Book and Cookie Exchange on Dec. 15, 2015 from 3:00 until 5:00 p.m. at the Library’s Fowler Branch, 1322 Main Street in West Concord. Enjoy music by harpist Rebecca Swett. Bring a dozen cookies of any variety from homemade chocolate chip to Girl Scout Thin Mints and a favorite book to exchange for someone else’s favorite. Enjoy light refreshments. Unwind with friends. Everyone is welcome and that includes men and boys!
On Tuesday, Nov. 10 help cook and serve a delicious meal for homeless and shelter residents in the Waltham area. Come at 3 p.m. to the Immanuel United Methodist Church, 545 Moody St., Waltham (Corner of Moody & Cherry St. - Enter from Cherry St. to the basement). The "Thanksgiving" menu includes turkey and all the fixins. You will enjoy this unique opportunity to put service above self.
The Rotary Clubs of Concord and Lexington are holding a meal-packaging event where we will assemble over 10,000 meals in two hours! In doing so, we will be part of a world-wide effort spearheaded by STOP HUNGER NOW. Come to the Lexington Prep School, 265 Lowell St. in Lexington from 10 am until noon Nov. 14 to help. Children over four years of age are welcome. To sign up click on STOP HUNGER NOW REGISTRATION at the top of this page. Visit www.stophungernow.org for more information. See flyer below. Download the flyer (left hand column) to forward to friends. It's fun, easy, and important.
The Rotary Club of Concord is sponsoring a food drive for Open Table at our meetings on Oct. 20 and Oct. 22. See the flyer in Downloads for details. We are working with the Rotary Club of Lexington to hold a "Stop Hunger Now" food packaging event on November 14. See details in flyer in "Downloads" and register by clicking on link in the menu banner above. And at Bristol Lodge Soup Kitchen on November 10 we will treat our guests to a turkey dinner. Information under Events. Many opportunities to feed the hungry.
On Oct. 2 Krish Dhanam delivered a spell-binding account of what it means to work for and enjoy the American dream from the perspective of an immigrant. He spoke at the Rotary Club of Concord's first Annual Speaker Event at the Concord Carlisle Regional High School. Before taking center stage, this internationally-acclaimed motivational speaker chatted with guests in the lobby.
The Rotary Club of Concord announces its first annual speaker event featuring internationally acclaimed social commentator Krish Dhanam at the Concord-Carlisle Regional High School at 7 p.m. Oct. 2, 2015. Dhanam has delivered his message of hope, humor and balance in over 50 countries and throughout the USA. Dhanam’s advice will stir you to the foundation of your belief in this great land. Tickets are $50, $25 for seniors, students, and groups of 10 or more. Order online by clicking on the button in the banner at the top of this page. For cash ticket purchases call John Dow, 617-803-6688. Tickets may also be purchased at the Concord Flower Shop at 135 Commonwealth Ave. in West Concord; Frameables at 111 Thoreau Street across from the depot in Concord; and McWalter Volunteer Insurance Agency on Main Street in Concord Center.
ROTARY CLUB OF CONCORD, in partnership with Cradles to Crayons’ Ready for School program, is collecting anything a child needs for a new year of school. You can make a difference in the lives of Massachusetts children by bringing donations to:
SUNRISE MEETING on SEPTEMBER 1ST or
ROTARY LUNCH MEETING on SEPTEMBER 3RD
WE WILL BE COLLECTING THE FOLLOWING BACK-TO-SCHOOL ESSENTIALS:
New and like-new children’s items including:
Clothing, Shoes, Coats, new socks and underwear
New school supplies including::Child-safe scissors, Pencil boxes, Pencil Sharpeners, Erasers, Pocket folders, Spiral notebooks (wide-ruled), 24-pack of crayons, Washable markers, Colored pencils, Glue sticks, Calculators, Rulers
Contacts: Helen Halloran (978-369-2404) or Sharon Spaulding (978-371-0800)
Many thanks to all who made the golf tournament a success, including the weatherman. No rain. No beating sun. No hole in one. Just a lot of fun for a great cause. Details to follow. We are all a bit tired today but relieved to know there will be scholarships next year.
Many thanks to all who made the golf tournament a success, including the weatherman. No rain. No beating sun. No hole in one. Just a lot of fun for a great cause. Details to follow. We are all a bit tired today but relieved to know there will be scholarships next year.
Concord Rotarians served guests at the Council on Aging's Sumer Barbecue Aug. 19. Presiding at the grill, flipping burgers and hot dogs, John Dow had it all under control despite the heat. Inside the Harvey Wheeler Community Center, in air conditioned comfort, the rest of the Rotarians served salads and desserts to close to 100 guests. Here is President Sharon Spaulding offering salad with a smile!
Rotarians Serve Summer Barbecue at Council on Aging
Here are a few Concord Rotarians who recently played at the new Fellowship Golf League of District 7910. Next round is Wednesday, Aug. 19 at the Framingham Country Club. (See Steve Levitsky for details). Not to be confused with the Aug 24 ROTARY CLUB OF CONCORD'S ANNUAL THOMAS R. HUCKINS MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT at the Concord Country Club to benefit the Concord Carlisle Scholarship Fund. Both are fun! Dust off those clubs and come on out for a great cause. Find downloadable information to the left or click to register at the Bidding for Good sites listed in the banner at the top of this page.
Early bird Rotarians enjoyed hearing DG Jim Fusco's inspiring report at the breakfast meeting August 11. We really appreciate the devotion to Rotary of our past and present District Governors when we hear about their extensive training and demanding schedules. Jim's enthusiastic goals for the District got everyone on board for a great Rotary year ahead. Check the District website and read Jim's newsletters to keep abreast of what is coming. As you can see from his photo, he showed a great sense of theater as he announced the District Conference, to be held in Plymouth in May.
District 7910 Governor Jim Fusco Visited the Sunrise Satellite
At 8 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 5 Rotary's online auction to benefit the Concord Carlisle Scholarship Fund (CCSF) begins, so click to care for all those deserving students who need our help. Go to biddingforgood.com/concordrotaryscholarships, or merely click on the area in the heading above, "ONLINE AUCTION FOR SCHOLARSHIPS". in 2015 Rotary Club of Concord gave $20,000 for scholarships. Lets beat that record to remain a #1 donor to CCSF. Bid Early. Bid Often. Help outstanding students like scholarship winner Lexi Goulet (pictured) obtain the education they deserve.
Rick and Joan Beers once again hosted an evening of fellowship and great food for the Rotary Club of Concord's Summer Outing at their Inn on the Horse Farm in Sudbury. Gerry Paolilli grilled fantastic lamb kabobs, John Dow and Rick Beers did not disappoint as super chefs. There were appetizers galore, cookies by Sharon Spaulding, cupcakes by Peter Mahler (maybe with a little help from Concord Teacakes bakers?) and much more. Rick's grandson offered tours of the farm via golf cart. Many thanks to all who helped and those who attended. Let's do it again next year!
You are invited to the Rotary Club of Concord Summer Outing Thursday, July 30, 5:30 p.m. Rain or Shine. Its our “Meeting of the Week”, hosted by Rick and Joan Beers at their “Inn on the Horse Farm” in Sudbury, 277 Old Sudbury Road (Route 27) 978-443-7400. SEE THE FLYER AT "DOWNLOADS" to your left. It has GPS directions.
You will enjoy fellowship with your club members and guests at this beautiful family-friendly location so dress informally. Bring an appetizer. Bring a friend. Bring your kids. Just come! If you have not signed up, let Dick Hale know you are coming at: sjpaving@aol.com.
Directions: (The Inn is not visible from the road, so look for the horse statues on the stone wall on either side of the driveway.) Go to Route 27 in Sudbury. From Sudbury Center, at the traffic light where Rt. 27 intersects Concord Road (landmarks are a church, town buildings, a little park and the Hosmer House) go east on 27 and prepare to almost immediately turn right. Look for a large granite post with “277” engraved on it and two large horses standing on top of the stone wall on each side of the driveway. Turn in and drive down the lane. (If you come to the Methodist Church you’ve gone too far.)
Kara McArdle brightened the July 9 Rotary meeting with an animated report on her experience at the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) weekend two weeks ago. The Club sponsored 12 Concord Carlisle students who will be juniors in September to attend this leadership development program. Kara described some of the activities she found most "life changing" including breaking a board with her bare hand and sharing her story in front of a group of 60 other students.
Congratulations to the winners of the Rotary Concord Middle School Awards. Nine scholars at Peabody and ten at Sanborn were chosen by their teachers to receive certificate, clocks and a round of applause for their excellent achievments.. Here is Math Rotary Award winner from Peabody, Jennifer Li. The Rotary Club of Concord is proud to have been part of Concord Middle School's 8th Grade Celebration for 2015 and wish each student an enjoyable and enlightening high school career.
Members and guests of the Rotary Club of Concord celebrated the wrap-up of President Sheila Watt's Best Club Award-winning year and welcomed incoming President Sharon Spaulding at a BBQ at the Concord Rod & Gun Club June 23. District 7910 Governor for 2015-2016 Jim Fusco installed Concord Rotarian Steve Levitsky as Assistant Governor. Many standing ovations for honored Rotarians kept folks on their feet until the evening wrapped up with a collection of gift cards for Compass for Kids and everyone left under the glow of a gorgeous sunset over the lake.
Another jam-packed week for the Rotary Club of Concord. Great speakers...Mark Howell, Chief Information Officer for Concord spoke at the Sunrise meeting June 16 and Sarah Rosenkrantz and Sam Greenberg of Y2Y (Youth to Youth) spoke at the Luncheon meeting June 18. Rick Copland, Judy Carlough, Sheila Watts and Steve Levitsky comprised the first place team in District 7910's new golf fellowship outing at Butter Brook Golf Course on June 17. The week wraps up with the installation of District 7910's new governor Jim Fusco on June 19.
On Memorial Day, May 25, Rotarians from Bedford, Concord and Lexington served ice cream sundaes and cake to veterans at the Bedford VA Hospital. Everyone enjoyed the camaraderie and the chance to thank the veterans for their service. Now in its fourth year, Concord's Sharon Spaulding organized this tri-club effort. Photo: Ruth Armknecht with a WWII veteran injured when a bomb exploded near his ship.
The Rotary Club of Concord is the proud recipient of the "Best Club Award for District 7910 for 2014-2015", awarded at the District Conference May 16, 2015. The Club also received the "Strategic Partner Award" for its partnership with the Town of Concord in securing a magnificent tree for the town center. The District gave Dick Hale and Steve Levitsky "District Service Awards" for their outstanding work on behalf of Rotary. Congratulations to all club members for their hard work this year. Seen here from left: Past District Governor and Concord's Club Advisor, Ralph Hammond; Club President Sheila Watts, Past Presidents June Grace and Rosario Rizzo and District Governor Valentine Callahan. In the foreground, the bell, passed to the winning club each year. It will be rung with honor!
Golf is back! The Concord Club's Golf Tournament Committee is hard at work, and so, too, are the staff and volunteers of the PGA Constellation Senior Players. Seen here, Joe Rotellini, Executive Director of the Tournament that will be held June 9-14 at Belmont Country Club. Joe spoke at Concord's luncheon meeting May 6, mapping out the process of planning and executing a major tournament. To volunteer or attend the Belmont Country Club event, visit CSPGolf.com. To volunteer or attend the Rotary Club of Concord's Aug 24th golf tournament to benefit the Concord Carlisle Scholarship Fund, download the forms on the left column of this page.
At the joint meeting of the Concord and Lexington clubs, Concord Rotarian Captain Tom Hudner, Medal of Honor recipient in Korea, presented a Medal of Honor book to two Lexington Rotarians that have been “volunteers extraordinaire” with the events at the Bedford Veterans Hospital on Veterans Day and Memorial Day. Seen here, they are Allan Azoff and Charlie Vail. Charlie is a Veteran of Vietnam.
Rotary Clubs of Concord and Lexington met Jointly April 16
Blustery weather could not keep over 20 Concord Rotarians and their children from marching in the Patriot's Day Parade in Concord on April 20, 2015. Thanks to Henry Dane's grandchildren who carried the banner, and Dick Hale, who suppled new hats and the new banner, the Rotary contingent enjoyed encouraging applause from the sidelines. Seen here, Concord Rotarians wait while the canons salute at the North Bridge below.
Spring finally made an appearance on Saturday April 11, and the Detweilers, Rick Copland, Sheila Watts and Dick Hale cleared the winter's debris from Cambridge Turnpike in time for Patriot's Day. Special thanks to Alexa Detweiler who found the most exciting trash...a dollar bill!
President Sheila Watts explains what is good about credit cards to a potential customer at the Financial Reality Fair held sponsored on April 7 by Rotary, Concord Youth Services and CCHS. High school seniors received a paycheck equal to their monthly salary with taxes and student loans deducted. They visited tables where they purchased housing, utilities, insurance, transportation, clothing, and food. Although they had to make compromises, most students learned that they could survive on their salaries with careful planning.
FINANCIAL REALITY FAIR AT CONCORD CARLISLE HIGH SCHOOL
David Wood, Curator of the Concord Museum, spoke at the March 26 meeting of the Rotary Club of Concord. After reviewing important aspects of the Museum's collections, community involvement, hands-on learning for students, and more, Wood introduced the upcoming exhibit, "The Art of Baseball." Opening on April 17, this exhibit includes nearly 50 works of baseball art and artifacts from a private collection as well as Red Sox memorabilia. Doris Kearns Goodwin is Honorary Curator. Watch for more about this exciting project.
Come to Rotary’s 40th Annual Spring Pops with Jazz Vocalist Amanda Carr and the Concord Band on Apr. 10 at “51 Walden”, Concord’s Performing Arts Center. Reception with Cash Bar and Silent Auction at 7:30 p.m. Downbeat at 8:00 p.m. Pops seating at tables of four, $25 per person at 508-878-6577. Bring your friends to hear some great tunes and support the Rotary Club of Concord in giving service above self. Sponsorship forms and posters are available in “Downloads”, below left. Photo: Don't miss Amanda singing "Anything Goes"!
At the March 5 meeting of the Club Farmer/Chef/Cooking Teacher Ben Elliot of Saltbox Farm in Concord traced the history of his soon-to-open restaurant, Saltbox Kitchen. Located on Commonwealth Avenue in West Concord, the establishment will feature seasonal cuisine using fresh ingredients from local farms, including Ben's. Ben will offer take-out, promoting healthy food for busy families. Best of luck for great success in your new endeavor, Ben. Sign up for his newsletter at saltboxfarmconcord.com/
Jean Wilson, guest of Steve Levitsky, and applying for the group study exchange to Italy.
QotW:
The "Out of This World" category from Rev. John stumped the table:
What evidence seen by astronauts suggested the 7/69 moon landing was a hoax? Answer": A Coke can kicked in from the side.
H&S Fines
Cato was happy to welcome guest speaker Ben Elliot.
Andy M. was happy to have survived being run over by a fellow hockey player, and proud to celebrate a good, injury-free season.
June G. paid for a mistake in her e-mail.
Steve Levitsky paid for all stock indexes hitting all-time highs.
Peter M. for surviving a visit from five kids.
Rick B. for a trip to Key West.
Announcements
Helen reminded us to note the Open Table collection at our 3/19 meeting.
Noel noted Pops is on track.
Leigh Ann advertised the second Reality Fair at CCHS April 7.
Dave R. thanked all those who worked at the Minuteman ARC festival.
Doug D.'s Foundation minute noted that the Polio Plus networks can be mobilized for other health emergencies, and have been for such events as the South Asia tsunami and Pakistani floods.. All examples of your EREY (Every Rotarian Every Year $100) at work.
Cato reminded us next Tuesday is Bristol Lodge lunch 3:00-5:00. Send a contribution to our Rotary Endowment to help pay for the food.
Peter Golden described the Bandey-Heffler exchange with an English district. If you host a visiting English couple this fall for four days and three nights, you will be eligible for the return visit in 2017--2 weeks in England and all you pay are airfare and your incidentals. Great way to make new friends and have a wonderful trip. Ask anyone who's gone (Dick L. has). If interested, contact Peter at psg@goldenpr.com. Dates this fall are 9/29--10/12.
Guest Speaker
Sharon introduced Ben Elliot, a farmer-chef. Ben has an extensive career in being a chef at such places as Locke-Ober, No. 9 Park, Hi-Rise Bakery and Formaggio Kitchen. He described the rigors and joys of being a chef, and how he left the field to spend more time with his children. He now runs the family farm in Concord and will be opening the Saltbox Farm Restaurant in West Concord, in the former Concord Outfitters spot. They will feature prepared foods to go, and have 15 seats for casual dine-in. The emphasis will be on Catering, Classes and local, seasonable food. Sign up for their newsletter at saltboxfarmconcord.com.
Song: Suzanne Greenough led us in God Bless America
Pledge of Allegiance Ralph Hammond, Past District Governor
Prayer Rev. Dr. John Lombard
Sergeant at Arms David Robertson
Bulletin Writer Karl Kussin
Visiting Rotarians & Guests:
Ralph Hammond, Past District Governor and Club Advisor, was our one VR. Guests included Curtis Blomberg (Therese Oliver), Dryden Chen (Frank Chen), Rob Fallon (Chris Sintros) and David Alkin (Larry Richards).
Question of the Week:
Ken Marriner asked “What is the name of the Chinese New Year?” The table answered correctly that is the year of the Sheep. No fines were paid.
Happy or Sad Fines:
Roger Fritz paid a fine because his son is traveling to Germany. Peter Mahler paid a fine for the successful event held at the new Concord Teacakes commissary. Karl Kussin paid fines for a trip to Mexico and his son being promoted and moving to Seattle. Andy Mahoney paid a fine for some excellent skiing at Sunapee during the school vacation week. Frank Chen paid a fine for the Chinese New Year and the company of his guest. Hilary Taylor paid a fine for a great night at Concord Teacakes put on by Peter Mahler. Helen Halloran paid a fine for a little more snow, because we need it. Ralph Hammond paid a fine because he’s happy about Concord’s new members. Steve Levitsky paid a fine for the record high stock market. Rick Copeland paid two fines for a couple great football (soccer) matches in Europe and his recent trip to the UK. Therese Oliver paid a fine for the real estate market heating up and the quick sale of her listing. Sheila Watts paid a fine for having her picture in the paper.
Announcements:
Dave Robertson reminded people about the MMAHS Olympics on Saturday at the facility on Baker Ave. Volunteers needed for set-up and the event. Helen Halloran introduced a food drive for Open Table that will begin soon. Look for more details in upcoming meetings about items needed and locations for drop off. The CCHS Reality Fair is April 7. More details can be obtained from Leigh Ann Crimmings. The Annual Rotary Pops Fundraiser is April 10. Solicit ads for the program book and attend.
Special Ceremonies:
Past President Steve Levitsky led the induction ceremony for two new Concord Rotarians. Erin Duggan, an attorney with Erin C. Duggan Law who lives in Concord, and Diana Shulman of Cambridge Savings Bank who lives in Wayland. Please make sure to welcome Erin and Diana when you have the opportunity.
Sharon Spaulding led a ceremony to recognize three Concord Rotarians for their tenure in the club. Therese Oliver for ten years, John Lombard for 20 years, and Rick Beers (who’s on vacation) for 30 years. Each received a framed certificate of service.
Program:
Rick Copeland introduced Shaka Hislop, a Concord resident who is an ESPN Soccer analyst and standout former professional soccer player who played for several English professional teams and his native Trinidad & Tobago World Cup squad in 2006. He was the first member of the team's World Cup Squad to be inducted into his country's Sporting Hall of Fame. Shaka had some good stories of his time growing up in the UK and Trinidad, at Howard University, and as a professional soccer player. Shaka appears as a pundit on ESPN FC, ESPN's daily global football news program.
It's becoming a tradition...Rotary hosts an indoor carnival for Minuteman Arc at Arc's Baker Avenue Center, 130 Baker Avenue Extension in Concord. This year there will be new games, new trophies and lots of fun. Volunteer by showing up on Feb. 28 before 1 p.m. to help with set-up. Enjoy an afternoon of fellowship and service. This is a premier event on the Rotary Club of Concord's calendar.
Shaka Hislop will be guest speaker at the Feb. 26 luncheon meeting at 12:15 p.m. at the Colonial Inn. Hislop is an ESPN Soccer analyst and standout former professional soccer player who played for both England and his native Trinidad & Tobago World Cup squad in 2006. He was the first member of the team's World Cup Squad to be inducted into his country's Sporting Hall of Fame. Shaka appears as a pundit on ESPN FC, ESPN's daily global football news program. See more at: http://www.rotaryclubofconcord.org/Event/e60972b2-c78f-4371-a396-423cd9eed4ad#sthash.0yJ5aSET.dpuf
Robert Fallon of Newbury Court, guest of Chris Santos
Question of the Week:
Hillary Taylor asked "What is the market price of silver today?"
Ann Trudeau got the correct answer of $17 (but then admitted that she overheard Hillary say it and paid a double fine)! The question was asked of all tables today as it was a light crowd due to all of the snow.
Happy or Sad Fines:
Sheila Watts – Paid a happy fine for a successful Rotary / Lions mixer.
Andrea Zall – Paid a happy to be back fine because this was her first meeting since November.
Sharon Spaulding – Paid a happy fine for the New York / New Jersey Department of Transportation's assistance in Massachusetts with snow removal.
Announcements:
On February 28, we will be hosting the Minuteman Arc Special Olympics at 130 Baker Ave.
Immediate Past District Governor, Doug Detweiler shared a Rotary Moment:
"Rotarians from 40 clubs in Belgium collaborated with clubs in West Africa to bring clean water to 20,000 residents in Niger. With a Rotary Foundation Matching Grant, they drilled wells and built toilets for seven schools and three health clinics. That's your $100 at work. Every Rotarian Every Year."
Program:
Our featured speakers this week consisted of our own John Dow who spoke about the Bristol Lodge Soup Kitchen, and Anne Trudeau who spoke about The Sharing Foundation.
John Dow has been supporting the Bristol Lodge Soup Kitchen and Homeless Shelter where 70 to 110 people are served by Rotarians every other month. The Bristol Lodge is run by the Middlesex Human Services Center through contributions of monetary donations. John was introduced to Bristol Lodge by Cato prior to him becoming a Rotarian which lead to Dick Hale chasing John down with a Rotary application – and the rest is history!
John brought up the poor condition of the stove top at the Bristol Lodge kitchen which got others thinking about how we could further help by raising money to replace the stovetop. A cookbook sale consisting of recipes that have been prepared for Bristol Lodge made from Henry Dane and John's culinary collections was suggested. John also wanted to specifically thank June Grace for always asking for food donations and always running to the store for last minute items!
Ann Trudeau spoke about The Sharing Foundation of which she is currently president.
The mission of the Sharing Foundation is to meet the physical, emotional, educational and medical needs of orphaned and seriously disadvantaged children in Cambodia. Cambodia is a country riddled in poverty. The annihilation of millions of people by the Khmer Rouge regime left the country with a population with little to no education.
The Rotary Club of Concord is funding a Music Program through the proceeds of the upcoming Pops concert this spring. Children in Cambodia will be provided with traditional percussion instruments such as the Roeat Ek and the Kohg Thom and string instruments such as the Skor Samphor.
In addition to the current Music Program, the Sharing Foundation has brought immunizations to Cambodia, recently including the HPV immunization for Cambodian girls. The foundation has also sponsored farm projects, sewing projects and the building of a school that is educating 500 kids. The Sharing Foundation sends $300,000 per year to Cambodia to support the housing, feeding and education needs of 72 children living in an orphanage.
Ann shared a story of a 6 year old girl who loves to dance and leads the dancing group in the orphanage. This girl was rescued from her crazy mother who was feeding her maggots and living in the dumpster as an infant. She spoke of the political difficulties of removing children from dangerous situations. Once the children are under the care of the orphanage, they have the chance to develop skills that will improve their lives.
Reverend John Lombard also shared his experience in Cambodia working with The Sharing Foundation. He was there teaching critical thinking at the University. From there he taught at an English teaching program where the kids were not allowed to speak their native tongue of Khmer and instead had to speak English.
Ann and John L. were both introduced to The Sharing Foundation by Dr. Nancy Hendrie.
At our Feb. 19 meeting Rotarian and Sharing Foundation Board President Ann Trudeau will report on her most recent trip to the Sharing Foundation in Cambodia.
At the Power of Change forum, sponsored by the Rotary Clubs of Concord and Nashoba Valley, Rotarians and their guests lined up to sponsor students at Razia Jan's school, the Zabuli Education Center in Afghanistan and to become ambassadors for Craig Norberg-Bohm's White Ribbon Campaign in March. Eleven Rotary Clubs agreed to work together on a $35,000 global grant for the Zabuli Education Center. It was an inspiring way to celebrate 25 years of Women in Rotary. In the photo below: Event Planners Nancy McPherson, Sheila Watts, June Grace, Karin Gaffney and Mary Garcia relax at the reception following the forum.
Song: “God Bless America” led by Suzanne Greenough
Pledge: led by Kevin Sullivan, President of the Bedford club
Prayer: led by Dean Benedict
Sergeant-At-Arms: Dave Robertson
Bulletin Writer: Andy Mahoney
Visiting Rotarians & Guests:Kevin Sullivan from the Bedford club was a VR and he was joined by Ingrid Detweiler (guest of Doug) and Glenn Hall (guest of Glenn Burlamachi)
Question of the Week:
Kevin Sullivan stood in for Ken Marriner, who hurt himself slipping on ice. “When did the Japanese bomb the continental United States?” Dick Hale answered correctly with “1945” when the Japanese put bombs in balloons and dropped them over Washington State.
Endowment Moment:
Rotarians from 36 clubs in Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia and Zimbabwe have 86 different projects going on to provide wells, water storage and toilets for schools and health clinics. Your contributions as part of Every Rotarian, Every Year have helped to make it all happen.
Announcements: (contact John Dow to coordinate coat & hat drives)
1/12: Rotary Club of Concord Board meeting, 4:00pm at Middlesex Savings Bank (all are welcome)
1/14: District Social Media Forum, 6:30-8:30pm at Doubletree Hotel in Leominster
1/17: Cradles to Crayons: Winter coat & hat drive Tuesday (Sunrise) & Thursday (lunch) --- sizes 6-12
1/22: Rotary Forum --- The Power of Change: Improving the Lives of Women, 7-8pm at Fenn School
2/05: Regular luncheon meeting will be held at the prison farm at N.E. Correctional Center
New Member Bio:
Jean Goldsberry, the new Executive Director at MinuteMan ARC, was born in Iowa, did her undergraduate and graduate (Masters in Community Health) work at Ohio State and then took advantage of a Bush (3M family) Foundation scholarship to earn her MBA at Yale’s School of Management. She moved to Boston after graduation and has worked in the disability area since 1987. She praised the Early Invention program for newborns to age 3 and cited the statistic that 52% of those who are in the program don’t need further services afterwards. She also listed the programs for adults including the 9 group homes (5 in Concord), 18 independent apartments, supportive housing (5), adult foster care (36), day rehabilitation (47) and their recreation program. They are moving to Forest Ridge Road soon. Jean lives in Concord with her spouse and 3 dogs. Her daughter, a potter, and son-in-law live in Wisconsin. Her son, a musician, and daughter-in-law live in San Diego.
Program:Sharon Spaulding introduced Leslie Perrin Wilson, Concord’s town archivist and the curator of Special Collections at the Concord Free Library. She earned her B.A. at Wellesley College and her M.A. at Simmons College and has been selected for many awards including those from the Thoreau Society and the Emerson Society. She spoke on the relationship between President Abraham Lincoln and the citizens of Concord, namely John Shepard Keyes. The library is hosting an exhibition entitled “This Man Grew According to the Need” – a quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson about Abraham Lincoln. Leslie stated that the residents of Concord were ambivalent about Lincoln until the Emancipation Proclamation of 1862, two years into Lincoln’s first term. Although Abe never visited Concord, the town was representative of the North’s view, had a strong anti-slavery stance and (Sam Hoar) was instrumental in establishing the Republican Party in Massachusetts.
Leslie conveyed Concord’s view of President Lincoln through the eyes of John Shepard Keyes, a Harvard-educated Republican who was a keen observer and was highly political. Mr. Keyes wanted to keep Kansas and Nebraska as “free states” and was the lawyer representing Frank Sanborn, one of the Secret Six who were members of the Massachusetts Kansas Committee. That group supported John Brown’s idea of an armed slave uprising and helped plan and support his raid on the federal arsenal at Harper’s Ferry, Virginia. In 1860, Keyes was a delegate to the Chicago convention and voted for William Seward. Lincoln won on the 3rd ballot, but Keyes never waivered. He was appointed U.S. Marshal for Massachusetts after having first served as Lincoln’s bodyguard at his first inauguration. As marshal, his duties included handling cases of prize ships, Southern spies, contraband goods from embargo runners, and the custody of certain kinds of prisoners. Please note that the exhibition will be coming down at the end of February and, in the meantime, there will be various lectures given as well, including one by Concord’s own Richard Frieze.
Happy New Year to all from the Rotary Club of Concord. We celebrate a year of service including the Hot Chocolate Stand, the new town Christmas Tree, meals at Bristol Lodge, Minuteman Arc events, wells and latrines in Kenya, scholarships, class act awards, food and clothing drives, fishing outings for veterans, gifts for inmates' kids, and much more. Thank you all for your hard work and for supporting the Concord Rotary Charitable Endowment and The Rotary Foundation. Get ready for an exciting year ahead, beginning with our "Power of Change" forum Jan. 22 at 7 p.m. at Fenn School.
Warmed by the fellowship and possibly a few drinks before dinner, Rotarians conversed, sang, clapped, congratulated and went home bearing a festive poinsettia after the annual Holiday Banquet at Newbury Court. Highlights of the evening included induction of Stuart Weeks and Sally Faccenda as new members, recognition of the committee that helped the Club get the new Christmas Tree for the town, among them Dick Hale and Henry Dane, and the awarding of Paul Harris Fellows to Ingrid Detweiler, Kevin McConnell, Roger Fritz, and June Grace. Photo: Stuart and Sally
Sunday Dec. 7, 2014 marked the dedication of the new Christmas Tree donated to the town by the Rotary Club of Concord. It was a cold and windy night, but our members spoke eloquently at the occasion despite annoying mike feedback. The tree looked spectacular. Thanks to all who staffed the Hot Chocolate stand, including the future Rotarian grandchildren of Doug Detweiler and Roger Fritz. And thanks to Dunkin Donuts for donating the hot chocolate. The tree in this picture is not the new town tree! It was too dark to get a good photo.
November 11, 2014 will be a busy day for Concord Rotarians. Sunrise Satellite Meeting at 7:30 a.m. at the Colonial Inn, serving lunch to veterans at the VA Hospital in Bedford at 11 a.m. and preparing and serving supper for the homeless at Bristol Lodge's community supper from 2 - 5 p.m. Click on the specific event on the left hand column to get details for these events. Seen here: These Rotarians served lunch on Nov. 11, 2013.
Are you an early bird? Can’t do lunch? The Rotary Club of Concord has added a second meeting to their weekly schedule. Rotarians and their guests may now attend a breakfast meeting from 7:30 a.m. until 8:15 a.m. at the Colonial Inn, 48 Monument Square in Concord. Featuring a hearty breakfast and an informal format, the meeting fits the bill for those who want to be part of Rotary’s many activities, but cannot make a luncheon meeting. Full attendance credit will be given to Concord Rotarians and Rotarians visiting from other clubs. Please drop in and experience an inspiring start to your day. Learn about upcoming Rotary projects and discuss timely topics.
Keynote Speaker at the Rotary Club of Concord’s Luncheon Meeting
October 30, 2014
12:00 p.m. – Colonial Inn, Concord, MA
Mitra is Immediate Past President of the Rotary Club of Worcester. Under his dynamic leadership the Worcester Club added 82 members in 2013-2014. After speaking at Rotary International’s Convention in Australia, he was the keynote speaker at Denmark's Rotary Convention, and addressed Russian clubs in St. Petersburg.
Now he will be appearing in Concord. Come hear this enthusiastic booster of Rotary...you will be amazed at the breadth of Rotary’s reach. If you know Rotarians from other clubs, alert them to this opportunity to be inspired to "Grow and add more helping hands." Visitors are welcome.
Haunted? You decide after you hear Arthur Martin, Colonial Inn's ghost expert, recount the many incidents surrounding the famous ROOM 24 at the Colonial Inn. Come to the Sunrise meeting of the Rotary Club of Concord on Tuesday, Oct. 28 at 7:30 a.m. to start your day with your pulse racing, and not just from drinking too much coffee! Be informed this Halloween. Know where the real ghosts are. Bring a gullible friend. This meeting has a four crypt rating. And its open to the public.
ARTHUR MARTIN TELLS FRIGHTENING TALES OF GHOSTS AT THE COLONIAL INN
The Rotary Club of Concord will meet at Newbury Court Oct. 23 at 12:15 p.m. (BYOL) Bring Your Own Lunch. It is our traditional participation in the Rotary Million Dollar Meal, a collective effort to raise money to stamp out polio. World Polio Day is Oct. 24 so the money the Club would ordinarily pay for lunches will be sent to support polio immunization programs. Steve Verrill of Verrill Farm fame is our keynote speaker, educating us about sustainable agriculture. Verrill farmland is in the Agricultural Preservation Restriction Program. This promises to be a great meeting. The public is invited.
Past President Sean McCarthy unwraps the mystery of the Four-Way Test as he presents a plaque to new inductee to the Rotary Club of Concord, Lynn Ashe of AnnieMac Home Mortgage. Noel Choquette (left) proposed Lynn, and Immediate Past President Steve Levitsky presented her with her pin and name badge. Welcome Lynn.
The A-Team of Concord Rotarian Chefs prepared a hearty meal of pork tenderloin, mashed potatoes with gravy, roasted winter squash, and salad for 70at Bristol Lodge's soup kitchen at Immanuel United Methodist Church in Waltham on January 8. Here Rick Copland and Art Taylor work quickly to get the warm roast to the table.
ROTARIANS HOST A COMMUNITY SUPPER AT BRISTOL LODGE
The Rotary Club of Concord will not meet Dec. 27. It's been a busy month with the Festival of Wreaths on Dec. 2; Hot Chocolate Stand on Dec. 2; Annual Meeting on Dec. 13; Holiday party with gifts to the children at the Northeast Correctional Center on Dec. 15 and our own Holiday Dinner on Dec. 20. We will hit the ground running on January 3, with the induction of new members and plans for serving a delicious meal to the homeless in Waltham on January 8. Stay tuned.
Photo: Our treasured treasurer Kevin McConnell received a gift from Santa (aka Steve Kirk) at the Holiday Party.
Great meeting Dec. 8 held in person at Concord Work Space and via our standby ZOOM. We honored retiring Concord Police Chief Joseph O’Connor, recognizing him for his service to the community and his devotion as a member of the Rotary Club of Concord. Sharon Spaulding and Karl Kussin presented Joe with a certificate of appreciation and a Rotary banner. Eric Boguslawski was inducted as our newest member. And speaker Andres Joslin, a 67 year-old tree climber, naturalist, and artist from Carlisle, held us breathless as he recounted his adventures from learning recreational tree climbing to becoming a professional arborist and a go-to rescuer of cats and fledgling owls. A fun-packed Rotary event!
stopped by to get their faces painted, to spin the wheel for prizes, to buy popcorn or cider or scoop up some of the fall offerings of gourds and cookie kits. Proceeds will go to Rise Against Hunger, a volunteer-driven organization that packages meals of dehydrated foods to distribute to people in need around the world.
the Rotary Club of Concord sponsored a booth at Concord's Ag Day, a once a year farmers’ market celebrating local agriculture by showcasing Concord farms and local produce. The Rotary balloons made a hit with the kids and folks stopped by to ask, "What is Rotary?" A beautiful September Saturday!
The Rotary Foundation, a charitable not-for-profit organization, is leading an international effort to provide emergency medical supplies and goods in Ukraine. Over $14 million in donations from around the globe have been made to the Foundation’s Disaster Relief Fund. Rotary Districts are now able to apply for a $25,000 or more Disaster Relief Grant. No match is required from clubs or districts.
and our team turned out some laudable work. We look forward to another Build Day November 5, 2021
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ready for the next party! Photo: A Distinguished Host, Karl Kussin, as seen on Zoom.
and Lauren Barretta , COA Assistant Director handing out masks at a drive-through event.
a “quote from a quote” by our speaker, John Boynton, sharing inspiration from the inimitable Ralph Waldo Emerson. While narrating slides of architect’s renditions and outlines of steps forward, our Jan. 28 speaker’s enthusiasm for the expansion and renovation of the library excited everyone. The beauty and utility of the updated library attests to the foresight of the many involved in its creation. As he wrapped up his remarks, John talked of “Closing the Gap” on the building project. With a goal of $12.2 million, $10.7 million has already been raised. To learn more view the Library Corporation’s website at CFPLCorp.org where you will find a walk through video of the space. You may also email them at development@cfplcorp.org.
Jamie Larsen inspired Rotarians at our Oct. Zoom meeting with her talk about Generus, an organization she founded and serves as CEO. Companies engage Generus to identify the causes employees care about and then create custom volunteer projects that employees work on together, inspiring teamwork and fostering good will in the workplace. Generus has identified many causes corporate groups can serve together, now virtually, including isolated older adults, hospitalized children and homeless families. They have designed interactive online events for occasions that cannot be held in person due to Covid. Congratulations Jamie for your creativity in showing companies how to inspire their employees to work together as a volunteer team to serve a cause they care about. Thanks Chris Alphen for introducing us to Jamie.
Concord Police Chief spoke at our Oct. 8 meeting, updating us on the current state of policing in Concord in the light of recent nationwide reactions to police brutality. The Concord Police Department has received very few complaints. They are already in compliance with all recommended procedures. All Concord Police officers have bachelors or higher degrees. Since the pandemic, the Department has seen a significant rise in mental health calls, 70 so far this year in contrast to 40 for the entire previous year The increase is probably attributable to the isolation imposed by the pandemic. It is always reassuring to hear Chief O'Connor's candid remarks at our meetings. Thank you Joe
format and went home smiling, toting winnings from the silent auction and other prizes. Rotarians were happy to see one another in person, albeit behind masks. Thanks to Karl Kussin and the Golf Committee who elected to carry on despite Covid-19. Thanks to our major sponsors and tee and green sponsors, we will be able to award scholarships next year.
, at Verrill Farm, Friday night, Oct. 2. Fun for the whole family, beautiful night after a light rain. Thanks to Concord’s Beth Williams, the Concord Rec. Department, Verrill Farm, on-site Rotarians who greeted cars and directed parking, Steve Kirk for the Rotary video and co-sponsor Umbrella Community Arts Center for their help. And thanks to Hilary Taylor and Helen Halloran for their leadership of this project. Photo: Rotary on the Big Screen
The Rotary Club of Concord held its first online Installation Event June 25, 2020 via Zoom. 40 attendees welcomed the officers and board of directors for 2020-2021: President David Robertson, President-Elect for 2021-2022 Karl Kussin, Secretary Helen Halloran and Treasurer Peter Mahler. Board members include Chris Alphen, Greg Costigan, Hiliary Taylor, Beth Winn, Andrea Zall, Henry Dane, Dick Hale, and Steve Kirk.
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by to see their curated exhibitions. 
Richard Warren and Kate Henderson sang and danced to Karaoke tunes. Only Nick Krol and Sarah were brave enough to join them...but wait til next year!
At Rotary's Sept.26 meeting Jody Marchand. founder of the Live for Liv Foundation, shared her chilling story of domestic violence and urged members to spread the word about its prevalence and dangers. Jody lost her 17-year-old daughter, Olivia, to a horrific act of domestic violence. Jody herself was also a victim of the incident having survived being shot twice. The Live for Liv Foundation conducts the annual Ride for Liv/Run for Liv event. The proceeds from the annual events are donated to organizations that help support domestic violence victims and recently included Domestic Violence Services Network and a shelter in Lowell. Jody will tell her story to any interested group.
Mark, pointing out a detail on the screen to his right.
On Wed., Sept 11, 2019 the Rotary Club of Concord and the Colonial Inn held a reception at which the Al Filipov award for Courage and Service was awarded to Lieutenant William Nelson of the Concord Fire Department and Police Officer Gerald Mearn of the Concord Police Department. Concordian Al Filipov was a passenger on American Airlines Flight 11, the first hijacked plane to crash into the World Trade Center. Keynote speaker was Al’s son, David Filipov, who was a foreign correspondent for The Boston Globe and The Washington Post. Chiefs Joseph O’Connor and Tom Judge assisted in the presentations. A donation to Minuteman Arc will be made in Lieutenant Nelson’s name and a donation to Home Base Veteran and Family Care will be made in Officer Nelson’s name. 
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Becca posed for photos and signed autographs. Here she is with Sheila Watts: 
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CCHS Interact Club that has made the place beautiful with plantings and held fundraisers to benefit the program. Here is Concord Rotary's President praising the work of Open Table as our members look on.
See the album on the web page for a peek at the festivities.
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Rotary International Convention in Hamburg. Here they are with other Rotarians from District 7910.
drove the Mustang convertible and the US Navy Drum and Bugle Corp stepped out behind us to keep up the pace. 
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are Concord Rotarian Sharon Spaulding, Carlisle Middle School Teacher and Early Act sponsor Liz Gray and Julia Rayberg.
s 20th Anniversary Celebration Sept 16 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.. Register at www.eventbrite.com and search for "Changing the World." 
and District Governor Steven Sager ready to embark on a busy year ahead.
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, then desserts desserts desserts. The full moon lit our way home. Thank you everyone for this evening of friendship. Here are Steve, Frank, Joan, and Peter ready to attack the lobsters!
team, posing with a bridge they had to build from newspaper and tape, strong enough to hold a gallon of paint and high enough for the can to pass underneath. They had to accomplish this without talking and within a limited time period. Talk about team work!
second term as president, having served in 2001-2002 as well. 
Karl Kussin, Chris Alphen, and Leigh Ann Crimmings met along Cambridge Turnpike in Concord to clean up the road. This long-standing annual service project felt a bit easier this year, as the area didn't look as littered as it has in the past. Perhaps this was due to the many years we have been participating in this project. Or maybe there is a shift in society for the better that keeps people from littering as much as they used to. But still, we filled up 5 large trash bags with debris, keeping all that trash out of the wetlands along the Mill Brook and Crosby Pond! 
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It was hard to tell who had more fun...the kids or the Rotarian kids at heart, when the RC of Concord put on a Winter Festival with Bingo, Dodge Ball and Pinata's at the Boys and Girls Club of Assabet Valley. Over 80 peppy kids enjoyed the Teacake's St. Patrick's inspired cake, took home prizes, and used up a lot of energy (theirs and ours!). Thanks to Sharon Spaulding and Dave Robertson plus many more volunteers for pulling off this energetic event. Photo: Dave makes it tough to hit that piñata! The Bingo Team at work.
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has worked with Walden on such projects as farming outdoors at Gaining Ground.
of special awards and introduction of distinguished guests highlighted Rotarians deep commitment to service above self. Congratulations to District Governor Karin Gaffney for sponsoring such an elegant, inspiring evening.
for all you do for our club and to support the work of Rotary worldwide.
The Rotary Club of Concord welcomed Linda Maxwell of Premier Properties of New England to membership on June 1. Henry Dane sponsored Linda, who is shown here proudly displaying a copy of the Four Way Test. Welcome aboard Linda!.png)
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Everyone agreed, this was a great way to spend the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Now an annual tradition, the Rotary Club of Concord treats our friends from Minuteman Arc to some exercise and some pizza. Kevin is a great coach!.jpg)
at the Bedford Glen Doubletree Hotel on Nov. 22.
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thanks to her experience with Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA). At the April 28 meeting of the Rotary Club of Concord, Piz presented a check to Danielle McGrary of "Stop Hunger Now" and Bedford Rotarian Robert Cassidy that will be used for the benefit of the Rotary Club of Bedford's Food Packaging event scheduled for May 14, 2016 at Middlesex Community College. Want to volunteer? Sign up at 
ready to load up some of the items collected for the kids.
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students like scholarship winner Lexi Goulet (pictured) obtain the education they deserve. 
is Math Rotary Award winner from Peabody, Jennifer Li. The Rotary Club of Concord is proud to have been part of Concord Middle School's 8th Grade Celebration for 2015 and wish each student an enjoyable and enlightening high school career.
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Ruth Armknecht with a WWII veteran injured when a bomb exploded near his ship.
and Concord's Club Advisor, Ralph Hammond; Club President Sheila Watts, Past Presidents June Grace and Rosario Rizzo and District Governor Valentine Callahan. In the foreground, the bell, passed to the winning club each year. It will be rung with honor!
Golf is back! The Concord Club's Golf Tournament Committee is hard at work, and so, too, are the staff and volunteers of the PGA Constellation Senior Players. Seen here, Joe Rotellini, Executive Director of the Tournament that will be held June 9-14 at Belmont Country Club. Joe spoke at Concord's luncheon meeting May 6, mapping out the process of planning and executing a major tournament. To volunteer or attend the Belmont Country Club event, visit CSPGolf.com. To volunteer or attend the Rotary Club of Concord's Aug 24th golf tournament to benefit the Concord Carlisle Scholarship Fund, download the forms on the left column of this page. 
are Allan Azoff and Charlie Vail. Charlie is a Veteran of Vietnam.
at the North Bridge below.
, Rick Copland, Sheila Watts and Dick Hale cleared the winter's debris from Cambridge Turnpike in time for Patriot's Day. Special thanks to Alexa Detweiler who found the most exciting trash...a dollar bill! 
Come to Rotary’s 40th Annual Spring Pops with Jazz Vocalist Amanda Carr and the Concord Band on Apr. 10 at “51 Walden”, Concord’s Performing Arts Center. Reception with Cash Bar and Silent Auction at 7:30 p.m. Downbeat at 8:00 p.m. Pops seating at tables of four, $25 per person at 508-878-6577. Bring your friends to hear some great tunes and support the Rotary Club of Concord in giving service above self. Sponsorship forms and posters are available in “Downloads”, below left. Photo: Don't miss Amanda singing "Anything Goes"!.jpg)
Shaka Hislop will be guest speaker at the Feb. 26 luncheon meeting at 12:15 p.m. at the Colonial Inn. Hislop is an ESPN Soccer analyst and standout former professional soccer player who played for both England and his native Trinidad & Tobago World Cup squad in 2006. He was the first member of the team's World Cup Squad to be inducted into his country's Sporting Hall of Fame. Shaka appears as a pundit on ESPN FC, ESPN's daily global football news program. 
Happy New Year to all from the Rotary Club of Concord. We celebrate a year of service including the Hot Chocolate Stand, the new town Christmas Tree, meals at Bristol Lodge, Minuteman Arc events, wells and latrines in Kenya, scholarships, class act awards, food and clothing drives, fishing outings for veterans, gifts for inmates' kids, and much more. Thank you all for your hard work and for supporting the Concord Rotary Charitable Endowment and The Rotary Foundation. Get ready for an exciting year ahead, beginning with our "Power of Change" forum Jan. 22 at 7 p.m. at Fenn School.
Haunted? You decide after you hear Arthur Martin, Colonial Inn's ghost expert, recount the many incidents surrounding the famous ROOM 24 at the Colonial Inn. Come to the Sunrise meeting of the Rotary Club of Concord on Tuesday, Oct. 28 at 7:30 a.m. to start your day with your pulse racing, and not just from drinking too much coffee! Be informed this Halloween. Know where the real ghosts are. Bring a gullible friend. This meeting has a four crypt rating. And its open to the public.
presented her with her pin and name badge. Welcome Lynn. 
at Bristol Lodge's soup kitchen at Immanuel United Methodist Church in Waltham on January 8. Here Rick Copland and Art Taylor work quickly to get the warm roast to the table. 