Great meeting today! We welcomed Herbal Pharmacist, Jon Moro as our guest speaker. He educated the club members on how to keep our bones healthy. There was a LOT of great information in this presentation!
To learn more about bone health, and more specifically to learn more about Herbal Path of Portsmouth, NH, please visit their website at https://www.herbalpath.com/
In addition~ We welcomed our November Student of the Month MacKenzie, who was joined by parents and her teacher Jess Baxter. The photo above is President Ben Lovell presenting MacKenzie with her Rotary Tee Shirt.
MacKenzie's donation will go to Animal Welfare Society of Kennebunk.
Congratulations MacKenzie!
November 17, 2023 Student of the Month & Bone Health!
We welcomed York Superintendent Tim Doak as our guest speaker (seen here with President Ben Lovell) at Fridays meeting. Superintendent Doak spoke of “One York” and his exciting plans for the future of York Schools.
Yesterday, October 31, 2023 was a special day! President Ben Lovell turned over the keys to the 2023 CWAC winner Roxanne! Congratulations! Special thanks to Sales Manager, Tim Thomas of Berlin City Lexus of Portland Maine for making this years CWAC transaction seamless!
Thanks to everyone who supported this years CWAC! Stay tuned for next years vehicle announcement in 2024.
A high spirited meeting this morning… including a Sing along to John Denver’s “Country roads” , kick-off to Spreading the Joy this holiday season with YCSA York Community Service Association: gas gift card donations to our neighbors in need.
Friday, September 22, 2023 our friend David Underhill, from the Portsmouth Rotary Club visited us to remind us how important our financial support to the Rotary Foundation is and how those funds GROW!
Every year we can apply for grants to help support causes that we find important.
Thanks Dave for this important and informative presentation!
Long time (and incredibly accomplished) Rotarian Holly Sargent returned from Augusta to talk about her experiences so far in her first term in the Maine House of Representatives serving on the Education and Cultural Affairs Committee. We are grateful for her involvement in making our state a better place. Welcome back, Holly!
We are so excited to reunite with Lila Sewall, 2020 York High School graduate and Rotary scholarship recipient. Lila graduated from the Culinary Institute of America in 2022 (her specialty is pastries) and now works at the White Barn Inn in Kennebunk. Lila also shared her experience as a volunteer with Zebra Crossings, an organization that provides programs for children with chronic health conditions and support for their parents and siblings. We are so proud of Lila and hope she will come back to see us again soon.
We were fortunate to welcome Charlie Black and Mary Andrews to the meeting this morning and learn about the Trooper Black Foundation which provides assistance to First Responders and their families during times of crisis or need. This mother-son team started the organization in 2019 to honor Mary's late husband Charles Black who died in the line of duty in 1964 just weeks before Charlie was born. To help the foundation serve more first responders and their families, the Trooper Black Foundation is organizing 5K Run/Walk for First Responders which will be held on Saturday, October 21 in York, Maine. For more information about the organization and the race, please visit trooperblackfoundation.org
Nick Darby, Special Events Coordinator at the Town of York, Parks & Recreation Department was INSTRUMENTAL in assisting York Maine Rotary in pulling off one of our MOST SUCCESSFUL Four on the 4th Road Race events ever!
Nick helped coordinate a new race route, volunteers, sponsors, marketing and SO MUCH MORE.
In a small effort to show our appreciation, several members of the Events Committee presented Nick with a Paul Harris Fellow Award.
Thank you NIck for all of your help, and providing "Service Above Self".
Who is Nick Darby? He is a wonderful FRIEND of the York Maine Rotary Club!
At Friday's meeting- we had the pleasure of having Elly and her mom Barb join the meeting. Elly is a 2022 York Rotary Scholarship winner, and she visited the club to update everyone on what her first year of college was like, and what her future plans look like.
We are SO PROUD of you Elly~ continue to do amazing things in the world!
Because Elly happened to be in the audience, we asked her to help us with our July 2023 Car with a Cause Early Bird Drawing.
Elly was asked to reach into the tumbler and draw our latest $250 winner.
Congratulations to Scott A. of Clinton Massachusetts- ticket # 581.
YOU WON $250 Plus your ticket goes back into the tumbler, making it eligible to win future drawings- maybe even the CAR!
Have YOU gotten your ticket yet? If not, you might want to get on that! We're getting down to the wire! Tickets are on sale;
Each weekend in front of the Golden Rod Restaurant at Short Sands (until sold out)
At Kennebunk Savings Bank at Hannaford Drive during regular banking hours
Congratulations to Tim Pearson- Paul Harris Society Award Winner!
Tim has been an incredible "behind the scenes" member for several years. Anytime there is a project, or an event, or an immediate need, Tim is the first to step up and help in any way he can. He is a true example of "Service Above Self".
Thank you Tim for being part of our Club, and for representing York Rotary Club every day.
Actually, we were in THEIR house on Friday, June 2, 2023.
On Friday, June 2nd we were invited to hold our regular club meeting at York Middle School. What a nice time we had! After a lovely breakfast, we had a presentation by the York Middle School 2022-2023 Interact Students. They gave us an update on what they have been doing this year, and York Rotary had the opportunity to present them with a BIG CHECK in the amount of $388 towards their annual "Purple Pinky Project". What a great group of young people, paving the way for a WONDERFUL FUTURE!
Congratulations to Max~ York Rotary Club's May 2023 Student of the Month!
Max chose American Friends of the Ocean Cleanup Foundation as his preferred charity to make his $100 donation to. When asked why he had chosen this donation, he stated, "I have chosen this charity because growing up in an ocean side town has made me understand the importance of our oceans. I would like to donate to a charity that will help minimize plastic pollution"
Well said Max! Well said!
Just another example of the bright light our future has due to the thoughtfulness and dedication off this young generation!
Friday, June 2, 2023 WAS a HUGE day for York Maine Rotary Club. On this day, we awarded 2 High School Scholarships.
The first was awarded to Sage Collis who was the winner of our James Bartlett York Rotary Club Scholarship in the amount of $5,000.00. Sage informed us that she plans on attending the American University of Political Science.
Our second scholarship winner was Matthew Charpentier, who is planning on attending Bates College in the Fall.
Congratulations to BOTH! Enjoy your next chapter, and know that York Rotary is proud of your accomplishments!
Friday, June 2, 2023 York Rotary Club's meeting included the first of several 2023 "Car with a Cause" Early Bird Raffles. The Early Bird Raffle winner, (drawn by our scholarship winner Sage) was lucky ticket # 402, P.N of North Las Vegas won $250 PLUS his ticket goes back into the raffle. He could win other early bird drawings and/or the CAR! Did you purchase your ticket yet? To purchase tickets please visit the Car with a Cause website at https://carwithacause.org/
SO many great things happening at York Rotary Club's meeting this morning!
First, the location- Thank You to York Public Library for allowing us to use your space! With the addition of a couple of tables, hand-crafted placemats courtesy of Robin Cogger, live plant centerpieces and a great breakfast from Bagel Basket the setting was perfect!
Then we welcomed a great friend, Pauline Cashman as an official NEW member.
And to wrap things up, the wonderful Sally Manninen from York Hospital's Community Health Needs Assessment was our guest speaker. Ms. Manning provided us with local statistics regarding the health of York County High School Students. To read more about York Hospitals Community Needs Assessment for 2021-2024 please follow the attached link: https://www.yorkhospital.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/YH-CHNA-Report-2021-2024-1.pdf
Yesterday's meeting, May 12, 2023 was held at the Center for Wildlife in Cape Neddick, Maine. It was the PERFECT venue for our speakers, Heather Campbell, Executive Director and Keelan Wackman, Director of Development & Community Outreach from White Pine Programs. Keelan asked us to think back to a happy childhood memory, and to write down the sights and sounds that we remember from that time. Many Rotarians shared their happy memories with those in attendance.
This was a great reminder on how important it is to spend time outside and connect with the nature
At the May 5, 2023 York Rotary Club meeting, we had the absolute please of hearing from Victoria Simon, Chloe Whitbred, and Maxine Edelson from the York High School Eco Club Plastic and Reduction Task Force. York High School Eco Club Plastic Reduction Task Force has expressed concerns, on behalf of York children and young adults, about the impact of plastic pollution on their future health and safety.
Students are taking the lead in creating an Ordinance that will benefit the citizens and visitors of York, reduce the cost to the town of solid waste disposal and protect our environment.
Our speaker on Friday, April 21, 2023 was Bill Tobin, Rotary Relations Manager from ShelterBox USA.
Everyone deserves a place to call home.
Right now, more than 113 million people around the world have lost their homes to disaster and conflict. ShelterBox USA is working to change this. By providing emergency shelter, tools, and household supplies to displaced families after disaster, they enable families to begin to rebuild and recover, transforming despair into hope.
TIckets are now available at Kennebunk Savings Bank, 2 Hannaford Drive, York, ME! You can purchase your ticket through the drive through or inside the bank at the teller windows.
Today's speaker was Dennis Dean, executive director of A House For ME. A House for ME was created by a group of concerned people, health care providers, veterans, advocates, parents and educators who have come together to change how supported housing is provided for community members with special needs. They surround their residents with a Circle of Support people are in their lives because they want to be there- people who enrich their lives and help them fully integrate into the community. Want to learn more about this important local nonprofit organization? Visit their website at http://ahouseforme.org/
Yesterday's meeting introduced us to this months York Middle School's Student of the Month, Issac. Issac's teacher Brit Rowe explained why he was selected as this month's student of the month- indicating his quiet, under the radar way of making people feel good about themselves is his super power! Due to Issac's love of music, he selected the organization "Save the Music Foundation" to donate his award to.
Thank you Issac for being an excellent role model for others to follow! We are proud of you!
Did you know 7.8 million children live in a household headed by a grandparent or other relative?
Yesterday's speaker was Denyse Richter of Step Up Parents. What is Step Up Parents? Step Up Parents was formed to provide financial assistance to kinship caregivers in New Hampshire (soon southern Maine also) who have stepped up to raise the children of parents struggling with substance use disorder.
To learn more about this important and unique organization, please visit their website at https://stepupparents.org/
This morning's speakers included Matt Wellington and Anne Donnelly from Tobacco-Free Maine Works. Their goal? To reduce youth tobacco use to help break the cycle of addiction and disease in our communities and promote a healthy workforce for the future. Want to learn how you can help them? Visit their website at https://tobaccofreemaineworks.org/
At today's meeting we welcomed Peter Murray, Director, and Nick Darby Special Events Coordinator of York Parks & Recreation. Nick assisted us in drawing our final Vacation with a Cause Early Bird winner, (Ticket # 179 WON $200!), and afterwards he and Peter shared with the club the new and improved plan for the 2023 Four on the 4th Road Race and other FUN things that are happening this season. To learn more please visit their website at https://www.yorkparksandrec.org/
Today's meeting included a presentation by Jess Maurer who is the Executive Director for the Maine Council on Aging. The MCOA is a broad, multidisciplinary network of 130+ organizations, businesses, municipalities and older community members working to ensure we can all live healthy, engaged and secure lives with choices and opportunities as we age at home and in community settings. We are changing the conversation about growing old in Maine. Join us as we re-imagine our communities, workplaces and systems of care so older Mainers can thrive!
Today's meeting included a presentation from Amelia Nadilo, Executive Director for the York Land Trust. The York Land Trust is a nonprofit organization led by a dedicated group of community members working to conserve and protect York’s natural resources and cultural heritage. York Land Trust stewards more than 3,100 acres of treasured, community lands, including Public Access Preserves, Limited Access Preserves and Conservation Easements on privately owned lands.
To learn more about this amazing local organization, please visit their website at https://yorklandtrust.org/
Busy Friday morning! Today we had Hannah Gennaro, who is a York Rotary Scholarship recipient. She is about to graduate from college and is now researching Graduate Schools. We also welcomed York Middle School’s Student of the Month for December, Ella K. who attend with her family and teachers. Ella has chosen Great Bay Skating Club’s Scholarship Program as her non profit of choice to donate her award to. Two amazing young people who prove our future is in GREAT hands! Lastly our guest speaker was Patricia Martine, Executive Director for York Housing Authority. We learned about how important this organization is to our community. Thank you ALL!
At our first meeting of 2023, we drew the December 2022 Vacation with a Cause Early Bird Winner- Lucky ticket # 231 has won $200! Congratulations!
If you'd like a chance to win the NEXT early bird drawing, or a chance to win the vacation or BOTH, please visit our website at https://vacationwithacause.org/
This morning's speaker was Nick Adams. Mr. Adams made an interesting presentation regarding his organization You Travel & Teach. You Travel & Teach is a small, international exchange company offering a six-week immersive English teaching experience in Italy. Their annual summer program is perfect for aspiring teachers, Italian language enthusiasts, and those who are curious about the world. They offer scholarship opportunities for those individuals who might not otherwise be able to participate in this amazing opportunity. To learn more about this organization, please visit their website at https://www.youtravelandteach.com/
This morning's meeting included the un-veiling of our "test" Mosaic Project! Brad Countryman brought this amazing fundraising idea to the club - and York Rotarians stepped up! Rotarians purchased a "tile" and did a little artwork. Those tiles were re-assembled by the artist and the result was reveled today! We are EXCITED! What a FUN project!
Keep your eyes open for a future, larger fundraiser.
Student of the Month ALERT! This morning we had the pleasure of meeting Eloise from the York Middle School who was selected as Student of the Month. Eloise has selected JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) as her non-profit charity to donate her $100 award. Way to GO Eloise! To learn more about her chosen non-profit, please visit their website at https://www.jdrf.org/
York Rotarians at it again! Todays adventure included Thanksgiving preparation shopping for York County Shelter Program- $750 worth of groceries should help quite a bit! Neighbors helping neighbors! Looking GREAT ladies!!
At the November 11, 2022 regular York Rotary Meeting, Jess and Matthew from Friends Forever International visited and made a wonderful presentation. Friends Forever International is an independent 501(c)3 nonprofit organization which believes we can all help build a better world by empowering our most underutilized asset: youth. They spoke of their RECIPE for success. To learn more about this amazing organization home-based in our backyard- Durham NH, please visit their website at https://www.ff.international/
At the November 4, 2022 meeting we had the pleasure of welcoming speaker Amy Miller of the organization Life & Hope Haiti. She spoke about all the wonderful progress the are making! Today she spoke of a need for a battery for solar panels- and immediately York Rotary Members stepped up! Keep up the good work!! Want to help? Please visit their website at https://lifeandhopehaiti.org/
Yesterday, October 15, 2022 was the 37th Annual York Harvestfest at York Beach. At 3:30 the York Maine Rotary Car with a Cause 2022 car winner was drawn. Congratulations lucky ticket #447- K. Beauchemin or Middletown, CT!
Michelle Sampson, Executive Director of the York Public Library was our guest speaker today. She updated the members of all the wonder things that they are doing to support the community, and she mentioned what they have been doing to celebrate 100 years. They had an online auction in June; they held a 100th Birthday Party July 15the and they are holding a Roaring 20's Gala on November 3, 2022 at Clay Hill Farm. To learn more about these events, and ALL the wonderful things our local public library does for the community, please visit their website at https://yorkpubliclibrary.org/
Great time tonight at the Rotary Meet-Up held at Wiggly Bridge Distillery right here in York Maine! Several Rotarians and their guests were educated by David Woods, about Wiggly Bridges history and where they are headed in the future. To learn more about this amazing local business visit their website at http://wigglybridgedistillery.com/
Today's speaker was the amazing Jamie Struck, who made a presentation about his adventure of Summiting Denali. Mr. Struck told us all kinds of Denali fun facts, what is needed to be packed to successfully summit Denali and what challenges they faced during their trek. To learn more about his adventure, please visit this website at https://untapped.cc/learn/blog/athlete-stories/denali/
This morning's meeting speaker was Kim Mann of Hospice of Southern Maine. She made a very informative presentation on what Hospice is.
What is Hospice and how is it different from other kinds of health care?
Hospice is care that aims at providing comfort rather than curing a disease process. Hospice is provided to those with a limited life expectancy of 6 months or less. The care is delivered by a team of expertly trained individuals including physicians, nurses, hospice aides, social workers, volunteers, chaplains and bereavement counselors. Hospice provides care for the patient and support for the family. Hospice provides comfort for physical symptoms, such as pain, and for emotional, social and spiritual distress as well.
Congratulations to D. Jackson of York Maine! You are lucky ticket # 654 who have won our August 2022 Car with a Cause Early Bird drawing! Not only have you won $250.00 but you also have another chance to WIN THE CAR at York's Harvestfest Event, Saturday, October 15, 2022!
Last night, Wednesday, August 17, 2022 we had a BLAST co-hosting the York Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours with the Center for Wildlife. Darcy Bastarache, our Treasurer prepared amazing appetizers and it was SO NICE to meet in person and interact with other local business professionals. THANK YOU Center for Wildlife and the York Chamber of Commerce for a great night!
Yesterday, President Susan Gross had the pleasure of awarding the York Rotary Club's York Adult Ed scholarship recipient, Lily Dimmick-Russell. She is going to be a freshman majoring in Psychology at University of Maine. This photo includes Club Member Roger Poisson, Club Member Kevin Beatty and son Lucas, Lily Dimmick-Russell and President Gross. Way to GO Lily! York Rotary is PROUD of you!!
Friday, July 22, 2022 meeting included a presenting a Paul Harris plus 2 award to past President, Holly Sargent. Thank you Holly for supporting Rotary in so many ways!
The next photo shows President Susan Gross and member Jud Knox presenting outgoing Town of York Town Manager Stephen Burns with his own Paul Harris Fellow Award. A Paul Harris Fellow is a prestigious Rotary award, the highest accolade that Rotary can present to an individual. Jud Knox, by way of his amazing poem explained why York Rotary is presenting Stephen Burns with such an honor. This poem is called "Certain People" .
Certain People
By Jud Knox
Certain People
Make a larger-than-life positive difference in a community
Certain People
Are agile enough to create multiple solutions to difficult challenges
Certain People
Stay calm and thoughtful while other rage about
Certain People
Remain humble while other parade
Certain People
Are always ready with a smile and a quick wit
Certain People
Maintain calm focus during stormy weather
Certain People
Are securely committed through energetic disagreements
Certain People
Hold their values as the foundation for all decisions
Friday's meeting included a fabulous presentation by visiting Rotarian Cheryl St. Amand from China Lake California. Cheryl is involved with the Rotary Rose Parade Float Committee. Cheryl explained that the annual float for the Rose Bowl Parade is not paid for by Rotary International, but strictly by donations. This important project provides Rotary with an audience of 70 million viewers each year. There are strict guidelines to follow in order to participate, and volunteers are crucial. To learn more about the Rotary Rose Parade Float, to make a donation or to help on the committee please visit their website at https://rotaryfloat.org/
Today's meeting included a presentation by Elizabeth McLellan, who is the Founder & President for Partners for World Health, who's headquarters is in Portland Maine. Partners for World Health collects medical supplies and equipment from healthcare facilities, manufacturers, other organizations and individuals. Then they sort, evaluate, repackage and prepare these supplies and equipment for distribution to individuals, communities and healthcare facilities in need both locally and internationally. The need is great, and is growing. They are always looking for volunteers and help in finding different resources. If you'd like to help, or to learn more about this amazing organization please visit their website at https://www.partnersforworldhealth.org/
The Changing of the Guard event held at York River Landing was a wonderful night of food, fellowship, and forty years of York Rotary. During this joyous event we celebrated all of the achievements we made in the 2021-2022 year with our amazing out-going president Susan Gross. We also recognized our Charter Members, had an amazing presentation/slide show by Doug Gray and welcomed visitors from Rotary District 7780, Claudia Frost; District Governor, Dick Hall; District Secretary & Vice District Governor, and Marina Shuliakouskaya; Public Image Instagram Officer. Our in-coming president Susan Gross also recognized member Brad Countryman with a Thank You Paul Harris Award for all he does every year for our Car with a Cause Fundraiser. A great time was had by all!
Friday, June 3, 2022 York Rotary Club's meeting included the May "Car with a Cause" Early Bird Drawing. Congratulations to S. Dauton of Milford, MA! You just WON $250.00, plus your ticket goes BACK into the bin, and you could win future early bird drawings and/or you could win the car! Have you bought YOUR ticket yet? If now, what are you waiting for? Visit the "Car with a Cause" website at https://carwithacause.org/ and purchase a ticket online today!
So much FUN this morning at the York Maine Rotary Club regular meeting!
First we were introduced to the York Middle School Interact club students, who updated us on their fundraising efforts for both the Purple Pinky Project and for fundraising for Ukraine. At the conclusion of this presentation, York Rotary presented the YMS Club with a "BIG CHECK" in the amount of $988.00 to assist in their efforts.
Next, we were introduced to the 2022 York Rotary Club Scholarship recipients Elly and Evah, who both made a brief presentation on where they will be going after high school and the major's that they plan to pursue.
And then last, but certainly not least we had the pleasure of an update by 2020 Scholarship winner Sophia Newton, who brought us up to date with all the FUN things she has going on in her life while attending the University of Michigan, and what her future plans might be.
Yesterday, we had the pleasure of having Chloe of the York High School Debate team attend our regular meeting. At the meeting she gave a speech that she intends to give at the upcoming National Debate Competition happening in Washington, DC. She is the only York High School student who will be attending this competition, and by the way, she is a freshman! This young lady is GOING PLACES!
We are pleased to support her in this opportunity with a $500.00 donation towards travel expenses.
Yesterday's meeting included an update by York's Climate Action Plan Co-Chair Gerry Runte, shown above with York Rotary President Susan Gross. Mr. Runte updated York Rotary on the February 2022 York Climate Action Plan Report, This report is now going to the Town of York Voters at the May 21, 2022 Budget Referendum where Article 70 states:
Article Seventy
Shall the Town vote to adopt the York Climate Action Plan, as was considered at a Public Hearing on February 28, 2022, to be a non-binding set of recommendations for future policies and actions designed to prepare the Town for climate change vulnerabilities and reduce emissions?
To review a Summary of this February 2022 Report, please click the below link:
Yesterday, we had the pleasure of presenting the 2022 Sharing & Caring Grant to this year's recipient "Kids Free to Grow". Kids Free to Grow is the Child Abuse Prevention Council for York and Cumberland Counties. Their mission is to prevent child abuse and neglect by empowering children and families in York and Cumberland Counties. Shown in the above photo from left to right are; York Rotary President, Susan Gross, Kids Free to Grow Director, Patrice Leary-Forrey, Kids Free to Grow Community Educator of York County, Amy Michaels, and York Rotary Sharing & Caring Committee members Gail Anderson-Morse and Larry Richburg.
Great presentation from Donna Bakke of the organization "York Connects" this morning. York Connects is a group of local citizens who want to make sure that the public is educated on Cell Phone Towers, specifically 5G and what the science is saying about the safety of cellular towers. Their message is to educate yourself on the safety and then to VOTE YES on #68 to pause and plan for improved connectivity in York. To learn more about this group, please visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/groups/yorkconnects
Wayne Martin, the Chairman of the York Town Hall Building Committee made a wonderful presentation this morning at our April 1, 2022 meeting. There is a TON of work going into making this project a reality. To learn more about this exciting project please click this link
Exciting day yesterday at the York Maine Rotary Club's March Club Assembly! We welcomed 2 new members, Cindy Lindley and Heather Campbell. Cindy, originally from California relocated to Maine last year, and is the Branch Manager at Key Bank in Kittery. Heather Campbell is a life-long York resident and has been involved in a variety of local organizations. She is currently the Director of White Pine Programs here in Cape Neddick.
On March 14, 2022 York Rotary showed it's support to the local organization known as "Heart to Heart" by making a $2,500 donation to help them do what they do best; to provide services to People with Age in our Communities. To learn more about this amazing, local, non-profit organization please visit their website at https://hearttoheartagelesslove.org/about
We had a very timely presentation from 13-year-old, (almost 14-year-old) Marshall who lives in York, Maine. Marshall is raising funds to travel abroad to do volunteer work for 2-weeks this summer in Costa Rica. He was extremely well spoken and explained that he is working with an organization called Global Leadership Adventures to develop his leadership skills, gain experience in contributing to their community and to become more cultured. He was also excited to become more fluent in Spanish. To help this future community leader to reach his fundraising goals, please visit the following website at https://enroll.experiencegla.com/contribute/MzkxMzA/
Today's speaker was Lisa Robertson, the director of York Adult Education. She made an interesting presentation of all the wonderful programs they provide to the Community. Due to COVD, they have created several online courses, which allow students to attend classes from wherever they are.
Adult education programs offer courses in 5 major categories:
Business & Skills Training courses help prepare Maine citizens by providing the modern skills training necessary for new careers, promotions, and other career advancement.
College Transitions courses assist people of all ages wishing to make the transition into college-level courses.
GED & High School Completion courses help people complete their high school education.
Literacy courses give people the guidance, support, and training necessary to improve their literacy skills and the literacy skills of their family.
Personal enrichment courses include lessons in skills such as cooking and musical instruments, and also include a variety of unique and fun experiences including travel.
SO MUCH FUN last Wednesday night, March 16, 2022 at Wiggly Bridge Distillery here on Route 1 in York, ME where we held our drawing for our "Vacation with a Cause". Great food and company. Congratulations to lucky ticket # 283~ They WON the fabulous vacation package to Costa Rica!
50% of the funds to support Ukraine emergency humanitarian assistance- Thank you for your support!
Great in-person and ZOOM meeting Friday, March 11, 2022 morning! Members of the York High School Interact Club (Avery, Evah, Reese, Sage and Elly) attended our meeting and made a presentation on their work with KIVA. KIVA is an international nonprofit, with a mission to expand financial access to help underserved communities thrive. Their site allows people to lend money with 0% interest via the Internet to low-income entrepreneurs and students on 83 countries. Examples of individuals who are looking for a loan on KIVA:
~Students who need help paying tuition
~women starting businesses
~farmers investing in equipment
~families who need emergency care
York High School Interact Club began their KIVA Project in 2015 when the Rotary Club, in recognition of Jud Knox's service as President, donated $400 to the Interact Club. This was then followed by another $200 donation in 2018 from the club in recognition of Holly Sargent's service as President.
YHS Interact Club found that KIVA was a platform where they could easily make a difference in communities all around the world, It also allows Interact Students to learn about the hardships people are facing in other countries and teaches them that they can have an impact, from hundreds of miles away. To learn more about KIVA please visit their website at https://www.kiva.org/
Michael Fischer, President of York County Community College, located right down the road in Wells, Maine made a great presentation this morning. He told us that the role of the community college is to make sure that the community has a strong workforce. The average age of a typical student right now is 28-29 years old. Their goal is to make sure that they have programs which allow students to transfer into the workforce immediately or they can transfer very easily to a 4-year college. York County Community College has been designated as a military friendly school for the 2021-2022 academic year. To learn more about this local gem, please visit their website at https://www.yccc.edu/
Friday, February 18, 2022 we had the treat of a presentation by our own Jud Knox, who is the Team Leader for the Rotary District 7780 Indigenous Focus - North America Project. Jud told us about 3 projects this group is interesting in moving forward with in 2022. Those projects included
Funding WaYS ~ Wabanaki Youth in Science (WaYS) Program. The Native American Tuition Waiver and Scholarship Program, and information about University of Maine programs that promote, support, and provide educational opportunities for and about Wabanaki peoples across the State of Maine and beyond.
Medicine Wheel Healing Garden ~ Partnership with the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians to develop a Medicinal Garden.
Education of Rotarians ~ The International team has spent the last year doing their homework. Beginning in October 2021, they started meeting with various clubs to educate them of this project and how they can help.
To learn more about this exciting, ongoing project, please contact Jud Knox at jknox0055@gmail.com
FUN night with the Friends of York Dog Park Board of Directors on our last Thursday, February 10th evening meeting. After a cute presentation there was a great question and answer session.
This morning we met Amy Bergeron, who is a recruitment specialist for A Family for ME. A Family for ME is a partnership between the Department of Health and Human Services and Spurwink Services, with the focus of raising awareness of the urgent need and finding Maine families who are willing and able to parent children in foster care. Did you know that currently there are just over 2,200 children in out-of-home care in Maine? Of the 2,200 children, there are approximately 500 children who will need a forever family? To learn more about this important organization, please visit their website at
This morning we had the pleasure of having Sudie Blanchard, who is co-organizing the volunteer efforts through the Ascentria Care Alliance, a social services organization that is working to resettle Afghan refugees in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. This past weekend, she assisted in helping a family of six Afghan refugees resettling in Portsmouth. The family is now settled into a home in Portsmouth, and the group expects that there will be a good 9-month adjustment period before they can be on their own. Therefore they have set a goal to raise $25,000 towards this effort. To help with a financial donation, please visit their fundraising website at https://secure.givelively.org/teams/ascentria-care-alliance/help-afghan-families/team-seacoast-nst
Friday's ZOOM meeting included a great presentation by our own Greg Kaknes. Greg along with his friends Roberto Rodriguez and Janie Mangus spoke about the Punta Islita School in Costa Rica, and their Foundation for the Aid of the Environment, Arts, Culture and Youth. To support their efforts and to learn more about this organization, please follow this link to our Vacation with a Cause website at
WOW is all I can say about the presentation made by Whitney Blethen and her organization "Seacoast Fridge", located at the Kittery Community Center in Kittery Maine at yesterday's York Maine Rotary Club's ZOOM meeting. Neighbors helping neighbors, and Community helping Community. This is a TRUE success story. To learn more about this amazing organization please checkout their facebook page https://www.facebook.com/seacoastfridge/
Yesterday's meeting included a visit from Jeremy D'Entremont and David Waldrip from the organization Friends of Flying Santa. They told us about the long, interesting history of this organization from it's start in 1929 to the current day where they continue the annual Christmas helicopter flights and carry on the gesture of gratitude to the families of the US Coast Guard. To learn more about this amazing, historic organization, please visit their website at https://flyingsanta.org/index.html
This morning's meeting included a great presentation by Wayne Boardman & Gerry Runte of York's Climate Action Plan Committee. The York Climate Action Plan is intended to be a roadmap to help the community prepare for the effects of climate change and to help us follow through on the emissions commitments. The goal is to reduce our community's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 50% by 2030 and 100% by 2050. Having set these goals the committee needs to develop a plan for how the community and Town government might achieve them - and developing such a plan was part of the commitment they made. With the assistance of the consulting firm CivicMoxie, the CAP is expected to be completed by January 2022, with public hearings to likely be held in March.
To learn more about this exciting plan, please visit their website at www.YorkCAP.net
It's a GREAT DAY at Berlin City Lexus when you can hand the keys to our 2021 "Car with a Cause" winner! Shown in photo from left to right are;
Tim Thomas, Sales Manager Berlin City Lexus, Scott Ramsay 2021 Car With A Cause Raffle Winner, Susan Gross, York Rotary President, Daniel Kahn, General Manager Berlin City General Manager
CONGRATULATIONS to Mr. Ramsay and
THANK YOU TO ALL WHO SUPPORTED THIS GREAT FUNDRAISER!
Last evening, several York Rotarians made the "sacrifice" to attend the first ever "Pints for Polio" fundraising event at Tributary Brewing, Company in Kittery Maine. Rotarians enjoyed their favorite microbrew, and Tributary Brewing donated $1.00 for every pint of beer sold towards eradicating polio! Thanks Tributary Brewing Company!
York Rotarians attended yesterday's York Region Chamber of Commerce's Farmers Market to promote our new "Vacation with a Cause" raffle. This new fundraiser is for an all inclusive Punta Islita Costa Rica Vacation for 2. Tickets are $50.00 each, and the drawing is March 15, 2022. GREAT stocking stuffer idea! To learn more visit the Vacation With A Cause website at https://vacationwithacause.org/
We had an AMAZING presentation by Chase Harr this morning, representing the ShelterBox Organization! Chase told us about his project Second Summits where he climbs mountains to raise awareness of all the good things that the ShelterBox Organization does! To learn more about ShelterBox, please visit their website at
Last Thursday evenings meeting speaker was our very own, Jud Knox. Jud's new non-profit "Heart to Heart" provides rides for seniors to appointments, the grocery store and other locations, but also creates bonds between the community and the experienced adults living in our community who should be cherished. Heart to Heart’s mission, values and vision are grounded in a passion for supporting People with Age, at no cost to them. To learn more or to volunteer to help this amazing organization, please visit their website at https://hearttoheartagelesslove.org/
Also, the club officially welcomed our newest "member" Hedwig, the Owl who has an essential job to keep our hybrid meetings running smoothly.
Beautiful morning at York River Landing outdoor pavilion for our Friday, August 6, 2021 meeting. Sun was shining, birds singing and we had 3 new future members attend, along with a wonderful presentation from Karina Graeter, who is a Sustainability Coordinator from Southern Maine Planning & Development Commission. Ms. Graeter's presentation to the group included what SMPDC is, what they do, and information on opportunities to volunteer. SMPDC works to foster more sustainable & resilient communities in coastal York County by leveraging regional collaboration to enhance the effectiveness of local government sustainability & resilience action.
To learn more about this organization, please visit their website at https://smpdc.org/
Friday, July 9, 2021 was the first meeting of the York Maine Club for the 2021-2022 year. This meeting included a presentation from Richard Cromwell of the Bath Maine Rotary Club. Mr. Cromwell spoke about WASH ~ Water, Sanitation and Hygiene ~ Bringing Clean Water to Cambodia. This presentation explained that WASH doesn't just provide clean water to Cambodia, they help local residents learn how to build and maintain their own latrines, wells and bio-sand filters for water treatment stations. They also check back in with the villagers to make sure the systems are working properly. They also provide training programs for village children who learn the importance of proper hand washing. To learn more about this amazing organization please visit their website at http://www.gettingwaterright.org/
This week- York Rotarians, along with some Mt. A. staff and some 8th graders from Massachusetts showed what they are made of by cleaning out and re-planting some native flower beds up at the top of Mount Agamenticus. This project was a couple of different days this week, one being that REALLY HOT (90 degree?) day at the top of the mountain. Led by one of our newest members, Jim Dupre, this will be an on-going project where volunteers will visit, tend to and water the beds for the entire season. Another example of true SERVICE ABOVE SELF!
Yesterday's York Rotary Club ZOOM Meeting was an eventful one!
First, we welcomed new club member Terry Thibedeau. Welcome aboard Terry!
Next, our weekly speaker was Lori Gosselin from Kalliergo Consulting who made a presentation on how to build a healthy community. Lori is an EXCELLENT presenter, and her calming voice and positive presentation really hit home for many of our Rotarians. To learn more, please visit Lori's website at https://thekalliergo.com/
York Middle School Interact Students raised $1,285.00 towards their annual Purple Pinky Project, then they raised an additional $1,445.00 for a combined total of $2,730.00 which was sent to Rotary International for Polio Plus.
York Rotarian Patricia Murray led a discussion on how she experienced the original polio vaccination, and how the process is similar to what the world is experiencing now with the COVID vaccination.
Great meeting on Friday, April 16th with our own Past President Scott Stevens! Scott shared with us some history regarding Native Americans in New England and more specifically in York. The club members were sad when the meeting had to come to an end, but he assured us that there was a lot more to learn.... and he'd be happy to continue the conversation at future meetings. Thanks Scott for an insightful and educational meeting about history close to home!
Last Friday, we had a wonderful presentation from Steve Wight of the Bethel Rotary Club and Dickson Ngoma a 23 year old Rotaractor from the Rotary Club in Zambia, regarding the Nsefu Water & Sanitation Project in Zambia. Dickson grew up in the village of Mfuwe, where clean water is scarce. Dickson started a project where he's proposing to raised tank systems which have a solar powered pumps. It is estimated that these systems will cost approximately $5,000.00 each, and they would like to build 4 in total. With the help of the Bethel Maine Rotary Club and Steve Wight, this project is hoping to be getting a District matching grant to assist in the fundraising.
Emily Doherty, who is the Directory of Mutual Fund Sales for MFS Investment Management was our guest speaker on Friday, April 2, 2021. She made a wonderful presentation discussing how negative market headlines can create panic, and that the best advice is to hang on for long term investing.
On Friday, March 26, 2021 we had the pleasure of the attendance of several York Middle School Interact Students. These students were in attendance to make a presentation on their "Purple Pinky Project" where they raise funds to help eradicate polio. We are so fortunate to have these future leaders in our Community!
During the Month of March, York Rotarians collected new linens to be donated to York County Shelter Programs. On March 16th incoming president Susan Gross and her husband delivered those items to the Shelter. Above are some photos from that donation.
This mornings speaker was a gentleman named Trevor Dodge, Program Coordinator for End 68 Hours of Hunger in York Maine. End 68 Hours of Hunger, (pre COVID) provides backpacks of food on Fridays to children in our community who may experience weekend food insecurity. Due to COVID they are currently providing $10.00 Hannaford Gift Cards to those recipients. Mr. Dodge explained that there are consistently 25 backpacks or gift cards distributed a week for children in our community who may experience food insecurity during the weekend. Their hope is to go back to backpack distribution sometime in April 2021.
End 68 Hours of Hunger is a 100% volunteer organization in York, Maine to END hunger between the 68 hours on Friday afternoon after school lunch to breakfast at school on Monday mornings. They are always looking for volunteers to help.
This week's Friday morning speaker was Dan Breen and Kelly Thayer, Director and Assistant Director of Development for the Ogunquit Playhouse.
The Mission Statement of the Ogunquit Playhouse is:
"Building upon a legacy of leadership in American theatre, the Ogunquit Playhouse produces world-class performances, cultivates new works for the stage, and preserves an iconic and historic playhouse for future generations."
Mr. Breen and Ms. Thayer spoke about the multi-year strategic plan that was prepared for the Ogunquit Playhouse prior to 2020; how plans to achieve those goals changed in 2020; and how the Playhouse kept those plans on track despite the hurdles of 2020/COVID. They also spoke of some wonderful, creative ideas that are planned to move forward in 2021.
On Friday, March 5, 2021 we had a presentation from Astrid Wielens, Founder and Executive Director of Zebra Crossings. She spoke of the wonderful programs that this organization provides to children, and families of children with chronic medical conditions. Zebra Crossings’ mission is to enrich the lives of youth with chronic medical conditions by fostering greater self-confidence, a sense of independence and a desire to realize their full potential through fun and engaging enrichment programs that build a strong and caring community support network for families.
This mornings York Rotary ZOOM meeting included a presentation by Robin Kerr, who is the Conservation Coordinator for Mount Agamenticus. Robin told us about their Adopt a Native Plant Bed Program.Please see the below flyer for more information. As a result of this presentation, the York Rotary Club will be participating in this program as a Community Project in 2021.
Today's ZOOM Meeting included a presentation from Jen Kennedy who is the Executive Director and Co-Founder of Blue Ocean Society for Maine Conservation.
Blue Ocean Society was founded by two whale watch naturalists, Jen Kennedy and Dianna Schulte, who were frustrated with the lack of translation of open ocean research into information that could be used by the public. Jen and Dianna met in 1995 during training for a whale research internship in Gloucester, which they did in winter 1996.
Following the internship, both Jen and Dianna were working on whale watch boats in New Hampshire, collecting unique data about whales on Jeffreys Ledge, which is an important whale habitat about 20 miles off the coast . They decided to start their own database, and work to translate their on-water experiences into educational programs for schools and the general public. Blue Ocean Society was started in 2001 and achieved non-profit status in 2002.
On Friday, January 29th we had the pleasure of a presentation from Daphne Stratton Gignac & Cameron Runte regarding the York EcoHOMES Initiative. Below is a link to this wonderful presentation.
Greg Bower, CEO of Day One was our speaker at this morning's ZOOM meeting. He was joined by Dr. Aalberg, Medical Director for Day One.
Day One's mission is to improve the health of Maine by providing substance use, mental health and wellness services to youth and families. To learn more about this hard-working organization, please visit their website at www.day-one.org
Today's ZOOM meeting included a presentation from Russ Glazier, Chief Operating Officer & Co-Founder of Portsmouth Arts & Music. Mr. Glazier explained how the various programs this organization provides is continuing despite COVID. To learn more about this amazing organization located in our own back yard, please visit their website at https://www.pmaconline.org/
This holiday season, the York Maine Rotary Club members raised $5,825 with their "Bring the Joy" campaign, which helped several local charities. Distribution of those funds included:
$1,300 YSCA to help a local family have a great Christmas, plus an additional $275 to YCSA to be distributed at their discretion;
$600 worth of Toys for Tots presents;
$800 worth of gifts to the York Police Department Angel Tree;
$1,000 to the Ogunquit Spirit of Giving;
$1,250 to the York County Shelters Program; and last but certainly not least
$600 to the Salvation Army of Sanford, Maine
What a WONDERFUL way to end 2020! Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays to ALL!
This morning's ZOOM meeting included a presentation by Dr. Cassaundra Rose of the Governor's Office of Policy Innovation and the Future regarding climate change in Maine. To learn more about this organization, or to sign up for their newsletter, please visit their website at http://climatecouncil.maine.gov
On Friday, December 4, 2020 we had the pleasure of hearing from Garrett Martin, who is the Executive Director for the Maine Center for Economic Policy, who spoke about how the pandemic is effecting Mainer's, and what steps his organization is taking to assist in the recovery. To learn more about this organization, please visit their website at https://www.mecep.org
This mornings ZOOM meeting speaker was Tegan Kurzynowski, who is the Programs and Community Engagement Manager for Friends Forever International. She told us about what this organization has been up to despite the curve-balls of 2020. This International Organization which is based out of Durham NH has deep Rotary Roots, and was founded by Bob Raiche, who was a member of the Portsmouth Rotary Club. To learn more about this amazing organization, please visit their website at https://www.ff.international/
We had a wonderful presentation this morning via ZOOM from Heather Campbell, who is the Executive Director of White Pine Programs here in York Maine. Their mission is to provide transformational nature experiences that forge personal resilience, inspire lifelong commitment to our environment and connect individuals to community. To learn more about this amazing local organization please visit their website at wwwwhitepineprograms.org
The above photo is of Brad Countryman, our "Car with a Cause" committee chairman, with the 2020 Volvo XC40 T5 AWD WINNER Jessica from York Maine! Jessica told us that winning this car is a blessing. She said that her mother has given her a "Car with a Cause" Raffle ticket for her birthday every year, and this year she also purchased one for herself. It's the perfect car for her and her little black and white dog .
Also in the above photo is Oliver who is with Premier Services at:
SOMEONE IS GOING TO WIN THIS CAR TOMORROW, OCTOBER 17, 2020 @ 4:00 pm!
Our "Car With A Cause" raffle drawing location has changed with the cancellation of Harvestfest. We have partnered with a local business - restauranteur that has suffered dearly this year. As if a pandemic wasn't enough, they experienced a devastating electrical fire, causing more than a million dollars in damage. On Saturday, October 17th, at 4 PM the drawing will be held at Walkers Maine Restaurant. (COVID protocol goes without saying), in front of their Porte-cochere. This is another opportunity for Rotary to help by inviting the community to support this local business.
We invite you to stop by for the drawing, but come early, as Walkers will open from 1:30 - 4:00 PM, offering a special menu to Rotary friends and supporters. http://walkersmaine.com/ Their regular dinner schedule is 4:00 - 8:00 PM. Keep in mind, there is no seating available if you plan to order lunch. You might consider calling in for take-out dinner from their amazing menu options following our 4 PM car raffle drawing.
At 4 PM we will roll the raffle drum and pull this year's winning number! Some lucky Rotary "Car With A Cause" supporter will take home our 2020 VOLVO XC40 T5 AWD (or 10K in cash). Come, support Rotary, and experience Walkers Maine Restaurant!
The October 9, 2020 ZOOM York Rotary Meeting was started with a positive word from one of our newest members, Jim Duper.
"Studies have shown that volunteering is so good for the mind and body that it can ease symptoms of stress and depression. Tapping into our gifts and passions builds self-confidence, energy, and strength. Serving others can also be the best distraction from our own worries. We make all sorts of rational explanations for not serving: I don’t have time. I don’t know what I would do. I don’t have any special skills to contribute. They don’t need me. Today will never come again. Be a blessing. Be a friend. Encourage someone. Take time to care. Let your words heal and not wound."
These words reflect what Rotary is all about~ Thank you Jim!
Commissioner Johnson, Maine Department of Economic & Community Development
The State of Maine Economic & Community Development Commissioner, Heather Johnson joined us via ZOOM this morning to update the club on this years' economic treads and the ways that the Maine Department of Economic & Community Development is assisting businesses during this time of COVID-19. Thank you Commissioner Johnson for your timely update! To learn more, please visit their website at http://www.maine.gov/decd/home
Friday, August 14th ZOOM meeting included a presentation from Missy Cormier, who is the Chief Clinical Officer for an organization called Day One out of Portland Maine. As Maine's only agency whose primary focus is adolescent substance use and mental health concerns, Day One is uniquely positioned to intervene at an early age in a young person's development so that they can get their lives back on track. Day One's vision is that all Maine youth will have opportunities to realize their full potential to live productive, healthy and rewarding lives.
To learn more about this organization, please visit their website at https://day-one.org/
Our community service team has been offering lunches to the York Covid Testing Volunteers both last week and again this week! Neighbors helping neighbors..
Today's meeting, July 24th we had our own Shawn Shambo make a presentation about Alzheimer's Disease. Shawn is an Occupational Therapist, who is an expert on this subject. To learn more about Shawn and his business Assisted Living Locators, please visit his website at portlandme.assistedlivinglocators.com. Thanks Shawn for the super informative discussion!
YORK, Maine — Liz Cooper, special events coordinator with the York Parks and Recreation Department, had no idea what the turnout was going to be like for the annual Four on the Fourth “virtual” road race earlier this month.
The numbers spoke for themselves.
In total, 345 people registered for the event, and more than 200 submitted times from 19 different states and as far away as Okinawa, Japan.
“This went better than I could have ever expected,” Cooper said. “The overwhelming message I received from participants was of gratitude. They were grateful this race still happened, even virtually and are optimistic for 2021′s race.”
This year’s “virtual” race was about 25% of last year’s field.
“I think one quarter of last year’s number is great,” Cooper said. “Going virtual was an early and easy decision because I know people enjoy this race and the coveted race shirt, plus I was confident the safest route was going virtual. A lot isn’t ‘normal’ this summer, but York Parks and Recreation and Rotary wanted to provide some normalcy by offering this year’s Four on the Fourth virtually.”
Chad Flickenger visited York every Fourth of July weekend when he was growing up in North Attleboro, Massachusetts. The annual trips didn’t stop as he got older and he would often run in the holiday race.
Flickenger, now 40 and living in Shelbyville, Kentucky, and his family participated in this year’s race.
“We went our four miles right here in our neighborhood,” said Chad’s wife, Ketti. “It was really fun. We enjoyed it. We had a hot, humid day. It was nothing to compared to be able to run near the beach versus running in Kentucky. It was a little harder, and not nearly as relaxing, I can tell you that. It was still fun, and we were happy to still be a part of it, and support it. Our kids thought it was amazing to be able to run; we were glad the virtual option was offered.”
The race, despite it being virtual, was still part of the Seacoast Road Race series.
Dan Covino, 32, of Enfield, Connecticut, was the unofficial winner in a time of 23 minutes, 43 seconds.
Jo-Ellen Ross from the Center for Active Living here in York made a wonderful presentation to the York Rotary Members via ZOOM last Friday, July 10th. To learn more about this amazing gem we have here in the Town of York, please visit their website at https://www.yorkparksandrec.org/center-for-active-living/
May 15th ZOOM meeting was another good one! With 33 in attendance, we were introduced to the 2020 York Rotary Scholarship recipients! They included Brianna, Lila, Chloe, and Kelly! Thanks for joining us! Also we heard a presentation from Kristie Rabasca and Leslie Hinz who spoke about the Town of York sponsored program called, Lawns to Lobsters. To learn more about how you can have a beautiful yard while also preserving the waterways, please visit their webpage on the Town of York website at https://www.yorkmaine.org/370/L2L
April 17, 2020 York Rotary's new normal of ZOOM meetings included our first outside guest speaker, Anastasia Hediger from Efficiency Maine. This meeting included 29 members, which was a new record for ZOOM meetings. Ms. Hediger showed us a PowerPoint presentation and introduced us to all the wonderful things they do. The meeting went extremely well! To learn more about what Efficiency Maine does for residents of the State of Maine, please visit www.efficiencymaine.org Thanks Anastasia!
Today, we attempted a small "Thank You" to York's front line. With the generosity of Anthony's Food Shop, we had 160 individually wrapped sandwiches and mini whoopee pies delivered to York Hospital, York Ambulance Association, York Police Department, York Beach Fire Department and York Village Fire Department. Thank you for ALL YOU DO!! It takes a VILLAGE!
On Friday March 13th York Rotary members visited York Ambulance Association and presented them with a check towards their capital campaign. Doing good right here in our community is important to our club!
On Friday, March 5th the Portland Symphony Orchestra woodwinds quartet performed for students at the Village Elementary School as part of the annual KinderKonzerts sponsored by the York Rotary Club.
President Scott welcomed our newest member, Jim Dupre. Jim is a resident of York, is an avid 5th wheel camper, frequent volunteer kitchen helper at Table of Plenty, and friend of Steve J and Doug G. Jim recently retired from Seabrook Station, but for some reason he still goes to work. Please welcome Jim to the club and be sure to introduce yourself to Jim at next week's meeting.
Today's speaker was Chris Babbidge, a State Representative from Kennebunk. Chris is a member of the state judiciary committee but was here today to tell us about the upcoming state bicentennial celebration. This is a months long celebration of our cordial separation from Massachusetts on March 15th, 1820. There are literally dozens of events planned and town's can apply for grants to offset any commemorative events. I've attached the handout with all of the information for your reading pleasure. Chris emphasized to check out the website Maine200.org for the calendar of events.
So many great things happened today! First we welcomed new member Duncan Leith to the York Rotary Club! Welcome aboard! Next we had our Student of the Month, Molly- who donated her prize to to an organization in Ireland who helps rescue baby seals who are found without their mothers- Great job Molly!!! And finally, we had the York Track team back to make a presentation of what our yearly donation helps them do! Last year, they went to Colorado! We love helping local student achieve success! Great job all!
Great day at the February 21, 2020 York Maine Rotary Club meeting! Photo 1 is of our own Robert Palmer receiving his first Paul Harris Fellow award from President Scott Stevens! Congratulations Robert, and thank you for your support to the Foundation!
In the next photo we welcomed our newest member, Shawn Shambo to the Club. Welcome!
The last photo is of our wonderful speakers, Jim Christensen and our own Shirley Frederick who spoke about the Amenyo Foundation and their work in Ghana, West Africa. Their mission is to facilitate cross-cultural development projects which provide opportunities for humans to express their fundamental goodness and for all participants to be both givers and receivers. Good people doing great things in the world! Thank you!
Great meeting Friday! First we were introduced to our newest Student of the Month Veda. Veda is not only an outstanding student, but is also a current Interact Student. Veda offered that she will be sending her award to The Hunger Project. Veda is shown here with Middle School Principal Barbara Maling, her teacher Melissa Fenelon and incoming York Rotary President Ben Lovell. Way to go Veda!
Immediately following that presentation, we discovered that we did not have a featured speaker for the day. Ben Lovell then asked our newest member if he'd like to tell the club a little bit about himself. Andy Holt made his presentation to the members without skipping a beat! He said that he is a former Navy Pilot, and then began a career at GE. He finished his career at GE as CEO of their Wind Division. He has been married to his wife Heather for 25 years and they have 3 children. Welcome Andy!
Great morning meeting today! President Stevens presented a surprised Gail Morse with a Paul Harris +1 Fellowship Pin. Then we heard from our scholarship recipient Erica Shea, who is a 2019 graduate of York High School, who is now attending YCCC and is studying Criminal Justice. Sorry I missed a photo opportunity! Then our speaker today was Katie Broder who spoke to us about the Center for Wildlife Capital Campaign currently underway. They are under construction of a 12,000 square foot, 4.5 million dollar facility. This new building will have a large conference/auditorium as well as classrooms. This part of the facility will be available for rent to the public. Opening day is expected in July 2020. For more information please visit their website at www.yorkcenterforwildlife.org
Erica Waterbury, accompanied by her dad Ronald attended today's meeting. She was awarded a scholarship from the York Rotary Club last year. Erica provided the club with an update of her first year at Southern Maine Community College as a culinary arts student. She currently has a 3.9 GPA, which impressed all of us! Thank you for the update. We LOVED hearing from you!
Great meeting this morning with Bill and Holly leading us in singing Christmas Carols! Truly the best way to get into the Christmas spirit! Thank you BOTH!!!
This past Friday was 2x's the FUN! First, we had our Student of the Month Sam stop by, and told us that he would be making a donation towards Action Against Hunger.
Then, incoming President Ben Lovell shared a story with us about running into a member who has missed a few meetings recently. When he asked the member where he'd been, the member answered that being retired it is now very tough to get up so early on Friday mornings. Well, Ben being the sport he is, came to the meeting in his PJ's to prove that the Friday Morning York Maine Rotary Meeting is a "come as you are" club!
This past Thursday, members of the York Maine Rotary Club visited York Hospital to deliver a donation to benefit the Recovery Center. The funds from this donation were raised during our March Madness event, which York Hospital was a huge contributor to this fundraiser. Thank you York Hospital for all the good you do!
This morning, the York Maine Rotary Club met in the Cellar Pub at York Harbor Inn. Unfortunately, it's not the best layout for photo taking! Our speaker was Margo Walsh, who is the founder of Maine Works. Maine Works is a program that helps people exiting recovery programs or jail sentences, and provides them with tools to help them become successfully employed. Maine Works takes the people who are looking to work and matches them with employers who are looking for workers. Many of the employers are in the construction industry. To learn more about this amazing organization, visit their website at www.maineworks.us
Amy Miller of Life & Hope Haiti updated the Club this morning on all of the good things this group has been able to accomplish thanks in part from the past support of our club. Their latest project includes constructing a guest house which when completed will provide a source of income to help the Eben Ezer School become self-supporting. To learn more about this organization, please visit their website at www.lifeandhopehaiti.org
On Friday, November 1st Deb McDermott was presented a Paul Harris award with thanks from the Club for her positive reporting over the years in the York Weekly for all things York Rotary Club related. Congratulations Deb and have fun in your future endeavors!
Candice Simeoni, Karen Connelly and Mike Maloney made a presentation to the York Maine Rotary Club about their organization York County Elder Abuse Task Force. To learn more about what this amazing group is doing for our community, or to find out how you can help, please visit their website at www.yceatf.org
Cooper, our first 2019-2010 York Middle School Student of the Month told us about how he plans to send his award to End 68 Hours of Hunger. Cooper is shown here with principal Dr. Barbara Maling and his teacher Susan Frank. Great job Cooper!
And we have a winner! Congratulations to lucky ticket #410 the Yurko family from Ogunquit Maine!!! Thanks to all who have made this year a huge success!
Bill Parks and his group visited the club this morning, and told us about their adventure in Guatemala where they visited a community in 2017 to help construct a home for a single mother, and also brought books to the local school children. During their visit, they observed that the playground at the St. Augustin School was outside in the blazing sun, and needed cover. When they came back to the States they began a fundraising campaign to raise money for a covered structure. As a result of their efforts a covered pavilion area has been built at the school that is used as an outdoor play area for children and also a community gathering area. Great job Habitat for Humanity!
Have you ever wondered what York Rotary is all about? Well, here's your chance! If you'd like to join us, please email jackiegrant3388@gmail.com to learn more!
Another great meeting in the books! Today we heard from Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap. He talked to us about Maine's new Real ID and he explained the State of Maine's election process. He was a great speaker with a great sense of humor! To learn more visit www.maine.gov/sos
Wildlife Biologist with the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, Cory Stearns told us all about the plight of the New England Cottontail, and what his organization and others are doing to help bring back this species from near extinction. To learn more visit their website at www.newenglandcottontail.org
State Representative, Patty Hymanson who represents District 4, and is also on the Health & Human Services Committee visited us yesterday to inform us of all the good things happening at the State House. She provided us with a list of bills that had passed during the last session, and answered questions from our members on what different bills were about. Thank you Dr. Hymanson for a great meeting, and for all you do to help our State!
Abigail Smith, Executive Director of AWS of Kennebunk told the members about the history of the Animal Welfare Society and all about the wonderful things this organization does today. To learn more, visit their website at www.animalwelfaresociety.org
Also, look who joined us today! York Rotary member Kim Trafton, and her very special guest! Welcome back Kim! We missed you!
We welcomed Chelsea Fitton, who is the Sr. Program & Community Engagement Manager from Friends Forever International, along with several students and staff to our meeting last Friday. The students told us about life in Ireland, and how even in 2019 there remains a divide between Protestants and Catholics. To learn more about this amazing organization that is bringing kids together, please visit their website at www.ff.international
The morning meeting started with a presentation by York High School student Ella. Ella has a girl scouts project that she has been working on, where she is proposing to erect Little Libraries in 6 different locations throughout the Town of York. Ella made a wonderful presentation on where the 6 locations areproposed, what is needed for each Little Library, and even provided a schematic on how they would be constructed. We were HAPPY to provide her with a donation to support these efforts!
Next, we welcomed our newest member Fred Diehl. Mr. Diehl lives right here in Town, and is the local Edward Jones representative located on Woodbridge Road. Welcome aboard!
Last, but certainly not least, we welcomed our speakers, Jacob Ouellette and Josh Sawyer from the Sanford Mainers Baseball Organization. Mr Ouellette told us about this wonderful league and the wonderful things that they do for kids in the community. In the above photo President Toni Joerres presented them with a check to support their summer youth camp program. To learn more about this organization or to see the game schedule, please visit their website at www.sanfordmainers.com
Sanford Mainers, Little Libraries & NEW MEMBER ALERT!
Such a fun meeting on Friday! The very talented York Middle School Jazz Band joined us for breakfast and performed an outstanding mini concert! These kids not only did a great job, they did it on their own. Band Director Jimi Neel had a last minute emergency and was unable to attend. Amazing talent ~ I really wish I had thought to tape the concert so I could have posted it here. If you closed your eyes you'd never had guessed they were 12, 13 and 14 years old!!! Incredible!
Another busy meeting!! This morning started by congratulating the recipients of the York Rotary Clubs 2019 Scholarship winners. The top photo includes Erica Waterbury, Erika Shea, Hannah Gennaro Sophia Newton, Payton Nickerson and their families. Such an amazing group of young future leaders!
The next order of business was to draw the May 2019 "Car with a Cause" early bird winner. Ms. Gennaro helped by drawing the winning ticket # 436, belonging to B. Medeiros of Center Barnstead, NH. We will be mailing a check to him, AND will be putting his ticket back into the tub to be eligible to win again! Congratulations!
Lastly, our speaker today was Jim Christiansen of the Amenyo Foundation. Mr. Christiansen told us of all the good his organization is doing in Ghana. To learn more about the Amenyo Foundation, please visit their website at www.amenyofoundation.org.
At this mornings York Maine Rotary Club meeting, we had the pleasure of meeting YMS Student of the Month Gunner Sullivan. Mr. Sullivan was joined by his teacher Samantha Pagano, Dr. Barbara Maling, and President Joerres where he explained why he chose to donate his award to the York Community Food Pantry at YCSA. Great job Gunner!
This morning's speakers were Katie Dodge, PT Director of Rehabilitation Services and Erin Morgan, NP, House Calls Coordinator of York Hospital. They made a presentation about the NEW Older Adults House Calls Program at York Hospital. To learn more please visit, https://www.yorkhospital.com/services/york-hospital-center-for-older-adult-care/ .
Did you know? The York Maine Rotary Club was founded on April 2, 1982~ which was 37 years ago? It began with 17 Charter Members, and was split off from the Ogunquit Rotary Club. If you attended this morning's meeting, you would have learned these facts (and many others) like I did thanks to the wonderful presentation by our own Tony Mont. Thanks Tony!
I just found some photos that were sent to me from the action packed meeting on April 26th at the York Harbor Inn! The YMS Interact Club gave us an update on this years Purple Pinky Project; the April YMS Student of the Month was recognized and we had the pleasure of the York High School Drama club sing a few tunes from their play "Oliver!" Just more proof of all the FUN we have on Friday Mornings!!!!
Nancy Breen of the Hilton-Winn Farm visited our meeting this morning. She introduced us to all the wonderful things this local organization does. To learn more please visit their website at www.hilton-winnfarm.org.
Great meeting yesterday where we heard all about the Layman Way Recovery Center, located in Alfred Maine. Above is speaker Kathy Slattery, who is the District Attorney for York County with club president Toni Joerres. To learn more about this important program please visit their website at https://www.yorkcountymaine.gov/recovery
MARCH MADNESS~ We held the final drawing on Friday, March 29th at noontime at York Hospital. Here is the complete list of this year's winners~
3/1 Jud Knox #390 $150
3/2 Diana Flynn #222 $100
3/3 Roland Gagne #025 $ 50
3/4 Holly Sargent #341 $300
3/5 Mary Ellen Jendzejec # 276 $ 50
3/6 Larissa Combe #299 $ 50
3/7 Sarah George #002 $ 50
3/8 Holly Sargent #342 $ 50
3/9 Jon James #282 $100
3/10 Sue Ball #024 $300
3/11 Jean Kolak #082 $ 50
3/12 Carol Salacain #164 $ 50
3/13 Marie Aimo #119 $200
3/14 Sharon Litvinchyk # 57 $100
3/15 Pat Murray #129 $150
3/16 Jason Rombali #315 $ 50
3/17 Susan Duncan #225 $250
3/18 Adam Hansen # 43 $ 50
3/19 Dylan Prince #170 $ 50
3/20 Becky Brink #186 $100
3/21 Lewis Stowe #303 $100
3/22 Gail Deroche #254 $200
3/23 Amy Richburg #194 $100
3/24 Thomas Simpson #190 $200
3/25 Karen Ashley # 69 $ 50
3/26 Jackie Grant #109 $ 50
3/27 Laurie Knox #247 $250
3/28 Karen Ashley # 69 $100
3/29 Corinne Grant #294 $ 50
3/30 Kelly Frederick #224 $100
3/31 Kevin Beatty #392 $500
And there it is! Congratulations to all winners and THANK YOU to all who participated. Special thank you to York Hospital and Ruby's Restaurant. We had FUN and hope you did too!
Funds benefit York Community Food Pantry and York Hospital Recovery Center.
Student of the Month Hayden, visited the club this morning with his family, his teacher Ellen Rothwell and Principal Barbara Maling. He explained why he chose to have the club send his $100 award to Southern New Hampshire ASPCA. Great job Hayden!
Busy Friday~ the winners list continued to GROW! Here's the winners through today's meeting:
3/1 Jud Knox #390 $150
3/2 Diana Flynn #222 $100
3/3 Roland Gagne #025 $ 50
3/4 Holly Sargent #341 $300
3/5 Mary Ellen Jendzejec # 276 $ 50
3/6 Larissa Combe #299 $ 50
3/7 Sarah George #002 $ 50
3/8 Holly Sargent #342 $ 50
3/9 Jon James #282 $100
3/10 Sue Ball #024 $300
3/11 Jean Kolak #082 $ 50
3/12 Carol Salacain #164 $ 50
3/13 Marie Aimo #119 $200
3/14 Sharon Litvinchyk # 57 $100
3/15 Pat Murray #129 $150
3/16 Jason Rombali #315 $ 50
3/17 Susan Duncan #225 $250
3/18 Adam Hansen # 43 $ 50
3/19 Dylan Prince #170 $ 50
3/20 Becky Brink #186 $100
3/21 Lewis Stowe #303 $100
3/22 Gail Deroche #254 $200
Congratulations to all the winners and check out this website next week to see who wins through the end of the month. Due to us NOT having a meeting next Friday, the final drawing will be held at York Hospital on Friday, March 29th. We will publish the final winners list as soon as we can... Stay Tuned!
Darcie Folsom, Assistant Director spoke to the club this morning about the organization she is involved with called Alteristic. "No one has to do everything....everyone has to do something. What's your Green Dot?" To learn more, visit their website at www.alteristic.org
Had a great time yesterday, Tuesday March 19th at the York Elementary School for the KinderKoncerts performance by the Portland Symphony Orchestra. We are proud to partner with several other local businesses to bring this event to our Community! To learn more follow this link: https://portlandsymphony.org/education-community/youth-programs/kinderkonzerts/
As a recipient of the Student of the Month Award, York Middle School Student CJ was awarded $100 to donate to her favorite charity. Here is a photo of CJ explaining why she chose to support YCSA with her donation at yesterday's meeting. Thank you CJ! You are a special young lady!
Yesterday was quite a busy meeting! Here's a photo of President Joerres, presenting Tegan Kurzynowski, Programs & Community Engagement Coordinator of Friends Forever with a check towards their mission. To learn more about Friends Forever, visit their website at https://www.ff.international
Our speaker this week was Tony Cameron, Director of Marketing & Communications with the Maine Tourism Association. We were reminded how tourism benefits every corner of our State. Great guy and great organization! To learn more visit their website at https://www.mainetourism.com
This past Friday's meeting included a presentation from the Maine State Treasurer, Henry Beck. He told the members about how the State of Maine ends up with unclaimed property, and how the State attempts to contact Maine Residents about their property. The biggest surprise was that 3 members have money owed to them! To find out if you are on the list, visit www.maineunclaimedproperty.gov
We are READY! Members now have our 2019 March Madness Calendars, and we are ready to sell! Calendars cost $25 each, and if you win, you will win at LEAST $50! Funds are to benefit the York Community Food Pantry and the York Hospital Recovery Center. See your favorite York Maine Rotary member to purchase one today!
It was a busy Friday morning at the York Rotary Club meeting~ Members of the State Champion York High School track team along with Coach Hutch attended the meeting and were presented with a check from President Joerres. This donation has become a tradition, and is from funds raised at our annual Turkey Trot. In addition, we had Amy Schram from the Better Business Bureau speak to us about Identity Theft and how members can protect themselves. Busy, yet fun filled meeting!
Congratulations to Matteo, the January 2019 Student of the Month from York Middle School. As the Student of the Month winner, Matteo explained to the club members why he chose the charity "American Diabetes Association". Great job Matteo!
On Friday, January 25, 2019 Club President Joerres presented a check to York Community Service Association for $4,000 for the Food Pantry, and an additional $4,000 for local fuel assistance. We are so lucky to have this hardworking organization in our community! Want to help? Please visit https://www.ycsame.org/
Congratulations to Cary, the November 2018 Student of the Month from York Middle School. As the Student of the Month winner, Cary explained to the club members why she chose the charity "Partners in Development" .
On Monday Todd and Sandra Gregory, Maria Kulcher and Rick Rogers (Rick joined the Calais Club to help them focus and grow - but he will always be our past secretary, past president and past district governor) were part of the 20 or so people who celebrated the BARR project as developed by the Rotary Clubs of York (President Dr. Marilyn McLaughlin-Murray), Calais (President Charlie McAlpin) and St. Stephen-Milltown (President Todd Gregory).
The room was full of passion as Marilyn spoke on how and why (education got her out of Jamaica, into medical school and to where she is now) she started this project and how Calais was a perfect fit (they were already on the BARR map - this TRF Global Grant was 2 1/2 years in the making) for her goal of education for EVERY child. St. Stephen-Milltown is also the perfect fit since we, as an international, i.e. foreign to the USA, country club can be the necessary conduit for The Rotary Foundation Global Grant - no St. Stephen-Milltown, no grant, no program - simple.
BARR stands for Building Assets - Reducing Risks and is a program that provides materials, facilitators, counselors, survey results, and in school coordinators that teach teachers how to effectively teach the student as a whole individual - and it works - tracking results have already shown that.
You can all be properly proud, as St. Stephen-Milltown Rotarians, to be part of this process.
Only a handful of tickets remain in member's hands. Online sales are done. Thanks for making this year's Car for a Cause raffle so successful. Good luck to all of you ticket holders on October 14!
Hopefully everyone is staying cool and hydrated. The humidity has been so heavy this year.
Some important reminders:
NO meeting this week – Friday Aug 30th. It is the 5th Friday of the month. NO weekly meeting.
We still need to sell tickets at the Goldenrod. Keep your eyes out for Kevin’s e-mail and sign-up form. Great news we have sold over 700 tickets! If you have tickets left over please sell them or bring them in.
Speaker – Friday Sept 7th – Mark Holbrook Congressional Candidate. You can read more about him at www.Holbrook4me.org.
Table of Plenty – Tuesday Sept. 11th
Board Meeting – Wednesday Sept 12th.
Dist. Governor Visit – Sept 14th! You will not want to miss this.
Have a safe and wonderful holiday weekend. Stay cool my friends!
Changing of the guard was a huge success! Thanks to Holly for a wonderful year as president and for sharing your lovely home for the occasion. Good luck to Toni with her upcoming year as president. We know you will be great!
Had the pleasure of participating in the soft-launch of Smokey Joe's Cafe and thoroughly enjoyed this production. The Playhouse continues to deliver star talent! A portion of all ticket sales for the May 23 evening performance will be donated to area Rotary clubs to help in the effort to eradicate Polio worldwide. http://www.ogunquitplayhouse.org/smokey-joes-cafe
Come out and support York Rotary’s Scholarship Fund at this fun, family friendly event. Watch the Traveling Comedy Basketball Group: Flight Squad take on some of York’s Finest community members and town employees.
Tickets available at the door or in advance at York Parks and Recreation Office!
This morning Dan Gardoqi spoke about White Pines Programs' nature education https://whitepineprograms.org and Lauren Leroux and Caroline Lee shared information about the community meal they are helping present as members of the For the Health of It club at York High School.
We have another winner!! Our $500 Early Bird cash drawing winner is Fred Schmuhl from Hampton, NH! Congrats Fred! Fred has chosen to purchase 2 additional tickets and will receive $300 check from York Rotary Club. Fred, thank you for your support!
And the winner of our August $500 cash drawing is Wayne Rugg of Westminster, Mass. Congrats to Ticket #557! His ticket will now go back in the drum for the September $500 cash and October car drawings. Thank you to Wayne and everyone for supporting York Rotary through our "Car With A Cause" campaign! With your help, we can make a difference!
We have our July winner of $500. Congrats to Ticket #544 - Daniel Bahre of Canton, CT. His ticket will now go back in the hopper for the August and September drawings as well as the car.
All the original members of the York Rotary Club and their wives we're honored at The Changing of the Guard ceremony tonight. Below, Sue Horowitz was awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship for her work on behalf of the club.
Last night we shared a great evening of fun and fellowship at our Dinner Dance. We were honored to have the visiting medical team from Uganda join us. Thanks to Tony and Russ for setting up this amazing event.
District Assembly took place yesterday morning at USM in Portland. It is an annual conference where Rotarians get to learn more about the roles that they can play in their Rotary club eg Secretary, Treasurer as well as other topics such as fund raising, grants, and public image. The York club was well-represented.
The purpose of the Four-Way Test Speech Contest is to foster ethics in everyday life, as well as in business. The contest is designed to introduce high school students to the Rotary principles of ethics and service, and to involve local Rotary Clubs with the youth of their communities. It also is aimed at encouraging young people to learn to express themselves well in public. In nearly every profession, the ability to express one’s thoughts and ideas clearly, concisely, and persuasively is an important skill (Rotary 7780).
Congratulations to Marie Hamel, the winner of this year's York Rotary Club Four-Way Test contest!
Our Treasurer Jackie Grant enjoying herself at Rotary Leadership Institute. It is a great way to learn more about Rotary. You can find out more about it at Rotary Leadership Institute.
[From today's meeting]I was asked to speak about something meaningful to me. There are so many things, but in honor of this club I want to talk about why this club is so meaningful to me. Twenty years ago when Tony Mont asked me to join the York Rotary Club, I said to myself what does Rotary do. Well, after the first few meetings, I found out that the club did a lot. Not only did it help with community projects but also state and international.
All these years later, York Rotary Club is still meaningful to me. My parents always said. "Now, don't brag - not nice." But I think it is appropriate that sometimes we give ourselves a little pat on the back because the club is all of the members who come to the meetings, sell tickets at the beach, work at the Table of Plenty, help the food pantry, winterize homes for Habitat for Humanity, give scholarships, provided a generator for Haiti, and Rob helping to set up a cancer center in Uganda. Yes, I am impressed by all this. One of the most impressive things to me lately was how quickly the sign-up sheet was filled to cook a meal for a fellow Rotarian who was caring for his terminally ill wife. Sorry, Mom and Dad - had to brag. But I think you would agree - I am very proud to be a member of this club - for all you do and I get to meet the nicest people.
Today, I shared with the club my experiences participating in a district grant that sent a team of medical professionals to Nsambya Hospital in Kampala, Uganda to help them develop their recently opened cancer center. Two shipping containers of medical supplies obtained through Partners for World Health have been sent as well. A team from Uganda will be visiting for 3 weeks in the Spring to complete the project.
The Continuing Education Scholarships award financial support of between $300-$500 to residents of York and surrounding towns who are seeking to add new skills, obtain certifications, or pursue a degree . The 2017 recipients are: Tracy Colburn , an employee of York Hospital who is pursuing her Masters of Science in Nursing; Diana Pike of South Berwick, who is pursuing her BS in Business at USM; Laura Cronin and Deborah Zieber, both from Berwick, who will continue their classes in Digital and Graphic Design, Maria Morel of Cape Neddick, who is continuing her nursing studies; Joyce Amend of York, who will work toward her certification in Zentangle Meditative Drawing , and Mason Noble of Cape Neddick who will expand his coursework in Art.
The $500 winner for August was P. Moskal of Berkley MA. There is still time to buy your ticket and have your chance at the $500 for September and the car!
Several York Rotarians and Past District Governor Marty Helman at the World Peace and Understanding Dinner in South Portland. Keynote speaker and Rotary Peace Fellow, Dr. Francesca Giovannini, gave a sobering talk about the state of the world's nuclear proliferation.
And the winner of York Rotary Club's "Car With A Cause" raffle for the 2015 ruby red Mustang convertible is: Bruce Bastarache! Congrats Bruce and a huge shout out to everyone that supported our raffle. You are all winners and we thank you for your support!
We had a good talk this morning by Mark Eves, Speaker of the Maine House of Representatives, about a contentious year marked, ironically, by much bipartisan collaboration. Coincidentally, there's an article in this morning's Boston Globe about the same subject.
In honor of World Polio Day, which is recognized on October 24th, Rotary District 7780 and Seacoast Rotary Club of Portsmouth, NH are sponsoring “Bridge the Gap to End Polio” on October 24, 2015 at 9 AM.
MIKE MOLONEY IS ROTARY CLUB'S 2015 CITIZEN OF THE YEAR
The Spring Hill Lodge in South Berwick was full of fans of Mike Moloney as he became the recipient of Citizen of the Year 2015 honors by the South Berwick – Eliot Rotary Club. Mike is well-known and beloved among the citizens of South Berwick and Eliot and beyond. His story is an inspirational and heart-warming one.
He immigrated to America from Ireland and became a part of the local community for the past 23 years. He met his wife Cindy while she was studying in Ireland and love brought them both back to America and his new life in Maine. In his words, “Becoming a member of the South Berwick Rotary Club in 1990 was the point at which we as a family really became integrated into the fabric of the community.” Whenever Mike and his wife served the community, his two daughters, Catie and Annie, always came along, too. From serving water at the town races, to delivering food at the lobsterfest, to helping at blood drives, to feeding senior citizens at Thanksgiving, to manning the food pantry, the Moloney family was everywhere. During the times of strife in Northern Ireland, Mike was instrumental in bringing kids from different backgrounds together through the Friends Forever program which he introduced to South Berwick, a project that was near and dear to him to promote peace and harmony. Having studied geography while in Ireland, he and his mother discovered that Geography Quiz Nights were great for raising funds and world awareness, and he brought that concept to Maine. Thanks to his expertise and talents, and the help of his family again, the Rotary Club has run a number of these quiz nights to raise funds for Rotary projects in Bangladesh, Haiti, Colombia, and other locations having great need.
The Four on the 4th Road Race was a big success. Many thanks to all the runners, sponsors, Parks and Rec employees, and Rotarians for making it possible, especially Rotarian organizers Robin Cogger and Kevin Raymond.
Seth Blodgett, a detective with the Maine Attorney General's office, spoke to us about the various ways people take financial advantage of the elderly.
Each year York Rotary partners with the Ogunquit Playhouse to help eradicate Polio. This year the date for Polio Plus is Thursday, May 28. A portion of all tickets sold will help eradicate Polio. If you are available and want to see a great show while supporting Polio Plus please join us, and tell your friends. You can go to the Ogunquit Playhouse website and purchase tickets for the 8:00pm performance of “Sister Act” on May 28.
A very full meeting Friday: we recognized York Middle School Student of the Month Caroline Leal; our club was recognized by Carolyn Johnson representing District 7780 for our contributions to the international effort to eradicate polio; and we had a great talk by Elizabeth McClellan of Partners for World Health, which collects unused medical supplies and equipment and ships them to needy hospitals in other parts of the world.
We had our annual visit from York's Superintendent of Schools Debra Dunn and Director of Finance and Operations Jim Amoroso to discuss the school budget.
Good to have Interact kids with us this morning. Very enjoyable program from Odyssey of the Mind. York has 91 kids taking part in 14 teams. Five teams made it to the World Finals in Iowa, and one of them came in tenth among teams representing many countries. We're proud to support this amazing effort.
The York Chamber Singers performed at York Rotary yesterday led by their director, Robert Westerberg. For many of our members, this meeting is a favorite that they look forward to throughout the year.
Great meeting this morning (Friday 10/24) with our guests and Friends Forever group from Northern Ireland! Paula and youth group members shared insights and highlights of the organization. Members engaged in an informative, inspirational Q&A session. The USA organization is spearheaded by Julia and Chelsea. Thank you to all. Learn more at: Friends Forever. To learn more about York Rotary, join us for a breakfast on us, Fridays 7:30 - 8:30 at the York Harbor Inn, Maine
Eradication of Polio in our lifetime is near reality! Join in the "Bridge The Gap To End Polio" - Portsmouth, NH this Saturday - Meet in Prescott Park at 9:AM to participate in this historic event! Contribution is $30 per family. This includes one T-shirt. Extra Ts are $5 each.
Thank you to all ticket holders for your support. It takes a village and with your ongoing contributions we will continue to support our many projects.
“Service Above Self” is a long standing Rotary motto. Members of the Rotary Club of York volunteer locally, regionally and internationally to combat hunger, enrich education, support clean water projects, improve living conditions, promote peace and eradicate polio throughout the world.
And if this sounds like an organization you would like to participate in, we invite you to join us for breakfast on us: We meet Friday mornings, 7:30 to 8:30 at the York Harbor Inn. Check in at the welcome desk, mention you saw this on our website and prepare for one hour of Rotary, York Maine style. Enjoy!
On Oct 3rd, Leslie Morissette of the Grahamtastic Connection spoke to us about her charity which provides computers, electronic equipment, and internet access to ill children and their families in Maine and across the country. Here president Jud Knox can be seen with the VGo robot which can allow children to attend school remotely. Jud is the one on the left. :)
The York Rotary painted a large map of the United States of America at the York Middle School on May 5th and 6th. Approximately a dozen Rotarians managed to accomplish the painting portion of this project in just under 4 hours although only slightly more paint ended up on the blacktop than on ourselves. The map can be used by the school for many student projects. This was one of the many Youth Service projects led by our own, Dick Santoro, this year. The map can be seen on the right and a thank you from the Middle School students on the left.
Pat Murray, President of he York Rotary Club, presented a check for $1500 to the York Food Pantry(left) and a check for $6000 for fuel assistance to the York Community Services(right).
Opening Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come to you this morning in search of your guidance, wisdom, and support as we begin this meeting and bid farewell to our exchange student, Dami.
Help us to engage in meaningful discussion, allow us to grow closer as a group and nurture the bonds of our World community. Fill us with your grace, God, as we make decisions that affect York's Rotary Club, and follow Dami into her future with your blessings as she returns home to family and friends with her memories of Maine.
And please, continue to remind us that all that we do here today, all that we accomplish, is for the pursuit of truth for the greater glory of You, and for the service of humanity. We ask these things in your name, Amen.
We had a successful library clean-up today, May 7th. Thanks to all the rotarians who came, rotaract students, and to the library board members who assisted and provided refreshments. Chairman of the Library Board, Bill Lord, York Rotary Community Service Chair, Robert Horowitz, and Library Director, Robert Waldman, can be seen in the picture from left to right. Please enjoy all of the pictures kindly taken by librarian, Sudie Blanchard.
1.Financials: you will receive a separate email from John R. with current financials.Don’t forget your quarterly dues.
2.Attendance: 89.77% for March
3.Membership: don’t forget you can make-up online.
4.Public Relations: thank you Deb McDermott for all the good publicity: I did not realize I could sound so smart.
5.Club Service: Our next club social is this Friday at the Barn in the Rough on Route One at 6 PM: we have $400 for club and GSE team consumption: Thanks Bob.
6.Community Service: Library clean-up: May 7 AM; Landscaping project at York High School: tentatively scheduled for May 21
7.International: our GSE team from Hong Kong and Mongolia will visit this Friday: don’t miss it.Thank you to Mark, Jud, Steve J, Steve P and Pat for all you help with the GSE team.
8.Foundation: there is still time to help us make our goal of $4,500 for the year at $100 per member.See Scott F. or John R.
9.Youth: Reading program wrap-up this week: RYLA moving forward: thanks Dick.
10.We are making our budgeted $250 contribution to the York Diversity Forum to help with the bicycles for seasonal workers.
11.District Conference: May 13-14: if you are interested in attending, see Jim B.
12.Striper Tournament: we should be getting more info to help us get started.
13.Interact: we need a new Interact advisor for next year: maybe 2 members would step forward to help: Kevin R has done a great job and we all should say thank you to him.
14.Marty Ulan award: it is time.We need 2 members to help organize this and make the selection: see Pat or Jim B.
15.Ogunquit Playhouse night for Polio Plus: coming in June: more on this later
16.Changing of the Guard dinner: Wednesday, June 29 at the Cape Neddick Country Club; save the night.
17.Next Board meeting will be a joint current and new Board meeting: May 24 6-7 PM at Jim B.’s new office at the Old Ice House: as long as Bob delivers the furniture.
We will be hosting the GSE tesm from District 3450 (Hong Kong, Macao & Mongolia). Included in the team are team leader, Experienced Medical Practitioner Dr. HokChou (Vito) Lee, O St J, MBBS, DCH, DTM & H, as well as team members: Surgeon Ganzorig Baatar, MD; Chinese Medicine Practitioner Michelle Cheung, BCM, BBA, MBA; Program Officer of the Hospital Authority of Hong Kong Cheryl Law, MPH; Opthalmologist Chui Yuk (Jennifer) Mok, MBBS; Registered Nurse Louise Sin, MN, BSN, RNM, RN. There was a welcome reception for the team at Spring Hill in South Berwick on 4/17 where Rotary members were able to greet the team. The team leader, Dr. Lee, and District Governer Hussey exchanged gifts (see picture). York Rotary members Mark Ergmann, Robert Horowitz, and Steve Pelletier were also in attendance.
The York club will be picking the GSE team up on 4/28. They will be at our meeting on 4/29 and stay with us until Tuesday morning of 5/3. During the visit, they will spend time with practitioners and administrators at York Hospital, Sentry Hill and Durgin Pines. They will also visit sites around York and join in a Lobster Bake. Thanks go to International Committee Chair, Mark Ergmann, and to the hosting families.
Press Release:YORK, Maine – The Rotary Club of York recently donated $5,000 to aid relief efforts in Japan following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.The funds were donated to the Rotary Japan 2011 Disaster Recovery Fund, established through Rotary International to support long-term recovery projects in affected areas of Japan.
“The vote of the club was unanimous,” said President James Bartlett, a York attorney. “The people of Japan are going to be needing help for a long time, and we are glad we can provide some assistance.”
Rotarians and non-Rotarians alike can donate to the fund. Since it was established, more than $500,000 has been donated.
"The great thing about Rotarians is that we share everything, including each other's joy and sadness. They have the ability to put themselves in the position of others and act to help," said Rotary International President-nominee Sakuji Tanaka. "Despite the unthinkable hardship we're experiencing now, the people of Japan will not give up on efforts to rebuild their communities."
Press Release:YORK, Maine – The Rotary Club of York recently donated $5,000 to aid relief efforts in Japan following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.
The funds were donated to the Rotary Japan 2011 Disaster Recovery Fund, established through Rotary International to support long-term recovery projects in affected areas of Japan.
“The vote of the club was unanimous,” said President James Bartlett, a York attorney. “The people of Japan are going to be needing help for a long time, and we are glad we can provide some assistance.”
Rotarians and non-Rotarians alike can donate to the fund. Since it was established, more than $500,000 has been donated.
"The great thing about Rotarians is that we share everything, including each other's joy and sadness. They have the ability to put themselves in the position of others and act to help," said Rotary International President-nominee Sakuji Tanaka. "Despite the unthinkable hardship we're experiencing now, the people of Japan will not give up on efforts to rebuild their communities."
The York Rotary was able to refurbish the York Food Pantry with funds obtained through a District Simplified Grant on 3/19/11 and 3/20/11. This project included replacing damaged ceiling tiles, painting the lobby walls, building shelves for storage, and painting the stock room floor. Additional pictures can be found here
Due to a conflict with the Table of Plenty, this month's board meeting will be changed from the 22nd to the 21st. The location will be Peoples United Bank instead of the Library. The time will remain from 6 PM to 7 PM.
Join Rotary, change lives! Big shout out to Friday's guest speaker, Paul Salacain, for an update on York Rotary Club’s International Service - grant project supporting the Eben Ezer School in Milot, Haiti. Our $25,000 grant met with another $25,000 from Rotary District 7780 and Rotary International to fill nearly every square inch of this container. We will do our best to get the doors closed. Interested in participating in projects like this and many others? Join us for breakfast Friday mornings at 7:30 - 8:30 am in our meeting room at the York Harbor Inn. Hope to see you there.
The 4 on the Fourth Road Race was a huge success. There were over 900 registrants this year. In this photo, you can see our own president, Jud Knox, running with gusto.
At our Friday meeting, May 2nd, two additional members were honored for 32 years of Rotary "Service Above Self", Ross Thompson and Robert Hayward rounding out the five founding members! They were the first to join the new York Rotary Club in 1982. You are what Rotary is all about! Club President Rob Horowitz and Membership Chair Patricia Murray were on hand to present their awards. Congratulations to all.
April 27th York, Maine; At Friday's breakfast meeting, Greg Villa, Bill Anderson, Tony Mont, and their families, were honored for their 32 years of Rotary "Service Above Self!" They were amongst the first to join the new York Rotary Club in 1982! Club President Rob Horowitz and Membership Chair Patricia Murray were on hand to present their awards. On behalf of all the members of the York Rotary Club, thank you for showing us all what it means to be a Rotarian. You are what Rotary is all about! Congratulations to all.
Friday's Guest speaker, PDG Marty Helman, shared insight to Rotary International's commitment to the Global Polio Eradication program, the extraordinary accomplishments and it's most tragic obstacles. Marty has participated in several immunization campaigns around the world. Thank you Marty, for your commitment and for sharing a few of your experiences. - Not a Rotary member and interested in learning more, join us for a free breakfast at the York Harbor Inn, Fridays 7:30 to 8:30.
Past District Governor Marty Helman Speaks on Polio
The 2014 District Interact Conference was a big success. Organizer Kevin Raymond can be seen speaking to a group of attendees. The event included a giant can drive, a Red Cross blood drive, and keynote speaker Michael Chase, the kindness guy.
York Maine Rotary Club was recognized for two significant achievements at Friday’s breakfast meeting January 31. Past District Governor Marty Peak Helman shared a lively breakfast meeting followed by her awards presentation. The first award banner for York Rotary Clubs 100% participation in the “Every Rotarian Every Year” Campaign for members exceeding an average of $100 donation per member! PDG Marty Peak Helman pointed out that this is not uncommon for small clubs but remarkable for a club of our size. The second award banner, a tribute to York Rotary Club for achieving the 3rd highest total contribution to this campaign in the district. Congratulations and thank you York Rotary Club for all that you do!
Not a member and would like to learn more, visit us at our York Maine Rotary Facebook Page and please, join us for a Friday morning breakfast on us, 7:30AM at the York Harbor Inn.
Friday, January 24, York Rotary Club members were honored to share breakfast with Mark Eves, Speaker of the Maine House of Representatives. As guest speaker, Mark shared insights to current hot topics and engaged in lively Q&A with club members. Rotary President Rob Horowitz presents our guest with a coveted Rotary coffee mug. Not a Rotary Club member and would like to learn more about all that Rotary is? Join us for breakfast any Friday morning form 7:30 to 8:30 at the York Harbor Inn. Like and follow us on Facebook: Rotary Club of York Maine.
Join in the Festival of Lights festivities today, Saturday December 7 in York Maine. For you wanna-be Rotarians, we welcome you to meet and walk with us and the York Rotary Club's float. We start at Foster's between 3:30 - 4PM. The parade begins at 4:30PM. Don't forget, you could win a Kindle Fire HD tablet donated by York Maine Rotary Club by participating in the inaugural Festival of Lights Scavenger Hunt between noon and 6PM in the village! See you there!! ~Happy Holidays!~
Blue skies and a balmy twenty seven degrees for runners in the Sixty first annual Turkey Trot presented by The York Maine Rotary Club in cooperation with York Parks and Recreation Department. Thanks to all participants.
Today we were able to congratulate our Continuing Education Scholarship winners, Renee Wilson and Shelley Young. We were also delighted to hear an inspiring presentation on Finding Your Rotary Moment from our District Governor, Carolyn Johnson(left).
The winner of the September $500 drawing this morning was Joshua Monson of San Diego, CA. Mr. Monson's ticket will be placed back in the hopper, and he still has a chance to win the MINI Cooper. You can buy online through the link above. Good Luck!
The York Rotary Club was awarded a district grant to create cross country trails at the York High School for use by the track team and the community at large.
We are offering three $500.00 scholarships to individuals who are pursuing a change in their career goals or are furthering their education to achieve greater opportunities in their present career.
Applications may be obtained at the York Adult Education office, York High School or by downloading the application from the downloads section of this site (left column). All applications must be completed and returned to the York Rotary Club by September 30, 2013. Applications should be sent to: York Rotary Club, PO Box 806, York, Maine 03909. Further information is available at the York Adult Education office at 207-363-7922.
The winner of the second of three monthly $500 drawings this morning was Joanne Perry of Lowell, MA. Ms. Perry's ticket will be placed back in the hopper and she still has a chance to win the third $500 drawing as well as the MINI Cooper. You can buy online through the link above. Good Luck!
Our exchange student from Peru, Valeri, visited our club for the first time today. I was presented with a flag from her home rotary club, a flag from her country, and a lovely cultural icon from her homeland. We all hope that she enjoys her stay in the United States.
The winner of the first of three monthly $500 drawings this morning was our own, Richard Santoro. Dick's ticket will be placed back in the hopper and he still has a chance to win the next two $500 drawings as well as the MINI Cooper. There is still time to get your ticket and be in the running for the three remaining drawings. You can buy online through the link above. Good Luck!
Last night was the Captain's Dinner for the Striper Tournament - Fish For Food. The fisherman were treated to food, music, and an exciting auction. Pictured above are tournament founders Rich Goodenough of the York County Federal Credit Union (left), Philip Lusty owner of The Dockside Restaurant in York (middle), and major tournament sponsor Fox Keim Vice-President of the Kittery Trading Post (right).
Striper Tournament - Fish For Food Captain's Dinner
Rotarians helped Habitat for Humanity deconstruct a house in York today so that the parts or the proceeds from them could be used to improve housing elsewhere.
The York Rotary and the Dockside Striper Tournament have joined forces to help reduce hunger. Follow the instructions on the poster/PDF to the left to become a sponsor. You can find out more about the tournament at their Facebook Page. You can also register to participate as a fisherman/fisherwoman/fisherperson ???.
For the fifth year, the Ogunquit Playhouse is joining the fight to eradicate polio worldwide by hosting Rotary Night at the theatre. The Ogunquit Playhouse will donate a portion of every ticket purchased to Thoroughly Modern Millie for the Tuesday, June 25, 2013, 8:00 p.m. performance to the York Rotary Club. The Playhouse seeks to raise $5,000 to support Rotary International’s goal of eliminating worldwide polio.
Rotary Night at the Ogunquit Playhouse begins at 7:00 p.m. with hors d’oeuvres provided by York Hospital in the Gazebo Garden tent, followed by a performance of Thoroughly Modern Millie at 8:00 p.m. This Tony Award-winning Best Musical stars Broadway’s Becky Gulsvig as small-town girl Millie Dillmount, who heads to New York City in 1922 to start a new life. Her new flapper lifestyle leads to a series of madcap adventures when she checks into a hotel owned by dragon-lady villainess Mrs. Meers, played by none other than Ogunquit’s favorite, Sally Struthers, in perhaps her most hilarious and diabolical role ever. Broadway veterans Terry Burrell (MuzzyVan Hossmere) and Burke Moses (Mr. Trevor Graydon) join the cast.
We had a very busy meeting today. Our speaker was IAPP President and CEO J. Trevor Hughes, CIPP. We also had the May and June Students of the Month - Mia Shaw and Christian Remick (above left). In addition, the 2013 Scholarship recipients were also presented including Emily Campbell, Patrick Walsh,Thomas Reid (above right), and Sage Rundlett.
On Sunday May 19th, Spring Library Clean-up was a big success. About a dozen members of Rotary and Interact armed with rakes, shovels, and leaf blowers helped spruce up the grounds of the York Public Library.
As per President Kevin Raymond, our own John Rainone was honored with a "Rotarian of the Decade" Award at the District Conference. His wife, Laura, also received a Paul Harris Fellowship.
Middle school principal, David Williams, introduced the York Rotary to the April Student of the Month, Alex Mayo. President Kevin Raymond and the principal can be seen presenting him with a check for $50 in honor of his achievement. Congratulations!
Today's club assembly was packed with goodness. District Governor Marty Helman presented several members with Paul Harris Plus Awards. Maeve Bonner was named the March Middle School Student of the Month. Also, we heard a brilliant presentation by the winner of the 4-Way Test essay contest, Sarah Palmer.
Our own Paul Salacain went to the Eben Ezer School in Milot, Haiti to assist with the planning of a water project. The York Rotary club had previously donated a generator to the school so that they could have a reliable source of electricity.
On Friday March 15th, he gave the club a presentation about his trip. While there, in addidtion to the planning related to the water project, he assisted with painting, architectural planning, and a lighting project involving 2-liter plastic bottles. He also witnessed a demonstration of a vocational project using the cassava plant to provide both food and raw materials which can be turned into charcoal briquettes. A video demonstration of the latter is provided below.
Incoming Rotary International President Ron Burton was one of the many inspirational speakers at the Northeast President Elect Training Seminar on 3/7-3/9 in Framingham. MA.
Middle school principal, David Williams, introduced the York Rotary to the February Student of the Month, Olivia Pavuk. President Kevin Raymond and the principal can be seen presenting her with a check for $50 in honor of her achievement. Congratulations!
Middle school principal, David Williams, introduced the York Rotary to the January Student of the Month, Allie Donovan. President Kevin Raymond and the principal can be seen presenting her with a check for $50 in honor of her achievement. Congratulations!
Today the York High School Chamber Singers visited the York Rotary and entertained everyone with Christmas carols. President Kevin Raymond also presented music director, Robert Westerberg, with a check for $250 from the York Rotary to support the York High School Music Boosters.
to John Denver’s “Country roads” , kick-off to Spreading the Joy this holiday season with 
to our neighbors in need.
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Message from the St. Stephen-Milltown Rotary
Changing of the guard was a huge success! Thanks to Holly for a wonderful year as president and for sharing your lovely home for the occasion. Good luck to Toni with her upcoming year as president. We know you will be great!
Come out and support York Rotary’s Scholarship Fund at this fun, family friendly event. Watch the Traveling Comedy Basketball Group: Flight Squad take on some of York’s Finest community members and town employees. 
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We enjoyed beautiful music from the York High Chamber Singers before making our annual gift to support this fabulous program.
We have another winner!! Our $500 Early Bird cash drawing winner is Fred Schmuhl from Hampton, NH! Congrats Fred! Fred has chosen to purchase 2 additional tickets and will receive $300 check from York Rotary Club. Fred, thank you for your support!.jpg)
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District Governor Dave Underhill of Portsmouth gave an inspiring talk about our projects in the context of Rotary International's mission.
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Last night we shared a great evening of fun and fellowship at our Dinner Dance. We were honored to have the visiting medical team from Uganda join us. Thanks to Tony and Russ for setting up this amazing event.
District Assembly took place yesterday morning at USM in Portland. It is an annual conference where Rotarians get to learn more about the roles that they can play in their Rotary club eg Secretary, Treasurer as well as other topics such as fund raising, grants, and public image. The York club was well-represented.
The purpose of the Four-Way Test Speech Contest is to foster ethics in everyday life, as well as in business. The contest is designed to introduce high school students to the Rotary principles of ethics and service, and to involve local Rotary Clubs with the youth of their communities. It also is aimed at encouraging young people to learn to express themselves well in public. In nearly every profession, the ability to express one’s thoughts and ideas clearly, concisely, and persuasively is an important skill (
Our Treasurer Jackie Grant enjoying herself at Rotary Leadership Institute. It is a great way to learn more about Rotary. You can find out more about it at .jpg)
Fellowship with the chamber of commerce. Expo at Jeffreys Tavern 1/28/17
Doreen McGillis of the York Land Trust shared that organization's good work with us Friday.
Today, I shared with the club my experiences participating in a district grant that sent a team of medical professionals to Nsambya Hospital in Kampala, Uganda to help them develop their recently opened cancer center. Two shipping containers of medical supplies obtained through Partners for World Health have been sent as well. A team from Uganda will be visiting for 3 weeks in the Spring to complete the project.
Rotarians working with Habitat for Humanity Saturday building storm windows for weatherizing local homes as part of a District grant..jpg)
The $500 winner for July was K Burns. There is still time to buy your ticket and have your chance at the $500 for August and September and the car!
President-elect Marilyn McLaughlin and PDG Ann Lee Hussey with Interact Conference Keynote Speaker PDG Deepa Willingham.
Several York Rotarians and Past District Governor Marty Helman at the World Peace and Understanding Dinner in South Portland. Keynote speaker and Rotary Peace Fellow, Dr. Francesca Giovannini, gave a sobering talk about the state of the world's nuclear proliferation.
Friday we welcomed two new members, and learned about the Family Business Institute from Executive Director Catherine Wygant-Fossett.
District Governor Sheila Rollins spoke to us Friday about the larger mission of Rotary and her plans for the coming year.
In honor of World Polio Day, which is recognized on October 24th, Rotary District 7780 and Seacoast Rotary Club of Portsmouth, NH are sponsoring “Bridge the Gap to End Polio” on October 24, 2015 at 9 AM..jpg)
The Four on the 4th Road Race was a big success. Many thanks to all the runners, sponsors, Parks and Rec employees, and Rotarians for making it possible, especially Rotarian organizers Robin Cogger and Kevin Raymond.
Seth Blodgett, a detective with the Maine Attorney General's office, spoke to us about the various ways people take financial advantage of the elderly.
On Friday May 8, we heard from Dave McCarthy about the Appalachian Mountain Club..jpg)
Peter Van Allen, editor of MaineBiz magazine talked about Maine's business climate this morning.
Each year York Rotary partners with the Ogunquit Playhouse to help eradicate Polio. This year the date for Polio Plus is Thursday, May 28. A portion of all tickets sold will help eradicate Polio. If you are available and want to see a great show while supporting Polio Plus please join us, and tell your friends. You can go to the Ogunquit Playhouse website and purchase tickets for the 8:00pm performance of “Sister Act” on May 28..jpg)
A very full meeting Friday: we recognized York Middle School Student of the Month Caroline Leal; our club was recognized by Carolyn Johnson representing District 7780 for our contributions to the international effort to eradicate polio; and we had a great talk by Elizabeth McClellan of Partners for World Health, which collects unused medical supplies and equipment and ships them to needy hospitals in other parts of the world.
Kerstin Kirchner of the Saco Bay Rotary Club spoke to us about her club's efforts to build a school in Sauka, Nigeria..jpg)
We had our annual visit from York's Superintendent of Schools Debra Dunn and Director of Finance and Operations Jim Amoroso to discuss the school budget.
Wednesday, March 11
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The York Chamber Singers performed at York Rotary yesterday led by their director, Robert Westerberg. For many of our members, this meeting is a favorite that they look forward to throughout the year.
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The 4 on the Fourth Road Race was a huge success. There were over 900 registrants this year. In this photo, you can see our own president, Jud Knox, running with gusto.
Independent gubernatorial candidate Eliot Cutler spoke to a packed meeting Friday morning. The other two candidates will address us in coming weeks.
April 27th York, Maine; At Friday's breakfast meeting, Greg Villa, Bill Anderson, Tony Mont, and their families, were honored for their 32 years of Rotary "Service Above Self!" They were amongst the first to join the new York Rotary Club in 1982! Club President Rob Horowitz and Membership Chair Patricia Murray were on hand to present their awards. On behalf of all the members of the York Rotary Club, thank you for showing us all what it means to be a Rotarian. You are what Rotary is all about! Congratulations to all. 
Blue skies and a balmy twenty seven degrees for runners in the Sixty first annual Turkey Trot presented by The York Maine Rotary Club in cooperation with York Parks and Recreation Department. Thanks to all participants.
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The winner of the September $500 drawing this morning was Joshua Monson of San Diego, CA. Mr. Monson's ticket will be placed back in the hopper, and he still has a chance to win the MINI Cooper. You can buy online through the link above. Good Luck!
We are offering three $500.00 scholarships to individuals who are pursuing a change in their career goals or are furthering their education to achieve greater opportunities in their present career. .jpg)
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Last night was the Captain's Dinner for the Striper Tournament - Fish For Food. The fisherman were treated to food, music, and an exciting auction. Pictured above are tournament founders Rich Goodenough of the York County Federal Credit Union (left), Philip Lusty owner of The Dockside Restaurant in York (middle), and major tournament sponsor Fox Keim Vice-President of the Kittery Trading Post (right).
