Concord Rotarians gathered together on Wednesday August 23rd, to host a Barbecue at the Concord COA. Corn was donated by Verrill Farm and we cooked burgers and dogs on the grill..  About 100 senior citizens came for the food and fun. Richard Warren was the Grill Master assisted by Dave Robertson and Peter Mahler. Also on hand to serve were Jeanne Armocida, Sheila Watts, Hilary, Karl Kussin, Jean Goldsberry, John Lombard, Ingrid Detweiler, Sarah and Heather Robertson.

 

 

 

                                                                                      .

Our club sponsored a  Field Day at the Boys and Girls Club of Assabet Valley on July 11th.  We had a bounce house, sack races, egg and spoon races, tug of war, lawn darts, horseshoes, ring toss and more. We gave out bubbles and had snacks for about 100 kids. Everyone had a blast! The Boys and Girls Club of Assabet Valley serves children aged 5-18 and affects the lives of about 700 kids per year. They serve Maynard, Acton, Concord, Stow, Sudbury and the surrounding area. Shown here are Rotary volunteers and Director of safety and facilities of the Boys and Girls Club John Brennan; with whom we coordinate the Rotary events.

  

On  April 22nd, June Grace formally received her Service Above Self Award which was presented by District Governor Victor Tom at Saturday's dinner. It was a wonderful moment for June and our Club as June received not one but two standing ovations. Also recognized during the morning D-7910 business meeting was Dick Hale who received a letter from RI President Jennifer Jones recognizing Dick's 60-years perfect attendance record.

Sharon Spaulding received an Avenue of Service Award for her work with Interact and EarlyAct and our entire Club was recognized for its work on international grants.

In other news from the District,D-7910 has 50 Clubs with 1192 members.

165 students will be attending RYLA this year.

Johnny Ahern from the Rotary Club of Leominster was named District Governor Nominee Designate and will serve as District Governor in 2025-2026 

 

 

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!

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. 

It’s history…. the Rotary Club of Concord’s 34^th 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. 

                                      

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.

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.

 

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.

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.

  

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.”

 

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. 

 

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

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 30^th 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.

Amy                                        Rebecca

 

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.”

 

 

 

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.

Here is a link to the slides John showed at our meeting: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1_7uNdN_pDVGO0-qAqFzrBBX4f9Sdv-y46vH6J7kaxyw/edit?usp=sharing

 

 

 

The party’s over, it sure was a ball

With songs by Carolyn Goff (and all)

A tuneful tribute to Florence Goulet

And one to Chris Alphen too, by the way.

We sang about dreidels and whistled that song

Called “Jingle Bells”. It didn’t take long

To judge Christmas sweaters and then to slip

Richard Warren a Paul Harris Fellowship

We’ll send cards to Emerson’s Housekeeping staff

To thank them on everyone’s grateful behalf

With a few classic carols we wrapped up too soon

And everyone clicked off the Holiday Zoom

 

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. 

 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

 

 

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

Published in The Boston Globe on Apr. 19, 2020

 

 

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.

Due to concerns over the spread of the COVID-19 virus the Rotary Club of Concord has canceled its Apr. 3^rd  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. 

 

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.

:

 

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.

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. 

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. 

 

 

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. 

 

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.

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 8^thfrom 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.

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!

 

 

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

 

 

 

 

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.

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 Rotary Club of Concord is sponsoring its Spring Pops on Friday, April 6. Here is a preview of what we are doing....

 

       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!

 

 

 

 

 

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.                                                .

 

Rotary Club of Concord Ski-a-thon Fundraiser for The Ivory Coast Grant from Capt. Steve Kirk on Vimeo.

 

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.

 

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.

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.

 

 

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.)