Notes about prior 2024 meetings

On July 9, 2024, the Mineola-Garden City Rotary Club celebrated a "changing of the guard" with Meg Norris handing the gavel to Diana O'Neill. Lucky us, Meg will be staying on as Vice President! We also celebrated a scholarship award to the very exceptional Mineola High School Senior, Kirpa Kaur with her proud mother cheering her on! An amazing behind the scenes duo, Althea Robinson and Joanne Meyer-Jendras, who with very little notice created the backdrop for a beautiful tribute to Meg including an engraved crystal bowl and bouquet of flowers in our blue/gold theme. Diana sincerely thanked Meg for her contributions over the past two years and noted that the changing of the guard is "steeped in symbolism, representing the seamless transition of authority and the unwavering dedication of members of an organization to protect the traditions, excellence, and high ideals it represents." It also shows the will of the members that the organization is worthy of carrying on! A highlight of the meeting was an historical perspective on the Beach Boys by John Kordes who gave a fascinating presentation on their lives as musicians and brought a montage of their prolific sound that gave a real lift to the proceedings!  
 
 
July 23, 2024 was another opportunity to indoctrinate me to best practices and the unfurling of a new stand-alone flag (courtesy of Arthur Anderson) for the pledge that starts every gathering! Here are some highlights of our discussions:  
  • Treasurer, Diane Pacifico Marmann announced she has been assigned to us as our new Assistant District Governor (lucky us) and that she will look into joining with another local Rotary to host the newly installed District Governor, Beverly James for a joint meeting. With member concurrence, she also said that a donation will be made to send a special needs youth to Rotary's Camp Pa-Qua-Tuck in Center Moriches.
  • Althea Robinson announced that the speaker for our breakfast meeting on Tuesday, August 13, 8:00 am at the Carle Place Diner (Old Country Road and Glen Cove Road) will be Marjorie Paganelli, NYU Langone Hospital-Long Island Community Outreach Coordinator. Marjorie is a specialist in falls prevention and will provide information on achieving better balance. The second August meeting has been canceled. She is confirming NYS Assemblyman Ed Ra for a future meeting and will let us know the date. That will be a great opportunity to hear from such a well-informed legislator. Althea also reminded us the Community Service Awards/Holiday gathering is December 18 in the evening at the Stewart Manor Country Club and that she welcomes members to join the planning committee to ensure a successful event.
  • Joanne Meyer-Jendras gave a run-down of upcoming activities sponsored by The INN and will be letting members know that she is organizing a service project for 8-10 people to serve a meal either late September or October. We will plan it for a Tuesday in lieu of a meeting. We are expected to be there at 8:30 am and stay until 1:30 pm. This idea garnered high interest among members. Also, save the date, November 10, 1:00 - 3:00 pm for a luncheon at the Mary Brennan INN honoring Ray Sikorsky.
  • Jim Brady said that RotaCare Community Clinic is looking for greater social media presence and welcomes volunteers to assist with promotional efforts. Joanne indicated that additional volunteers will be needed to augment clinical and administrative staff.
  • Since hurricane season is upon us (June 1 - November 30), I met with American Red Cross yesterday to discuss emergency/disaster preparedness and provided attendees with some handy checklists they created to help prepare for extreme weather and other emergencies.
At the August 13 breakfast meeting of the Mineola-Garden City Rotary Club, 15 of us gathered to learn about achieving better balance to stay upright! Many thanks to our speakers bureau chair, Althea Robinson, who secured NYU Langone Hospital-Long Island Community Outreach Coordinator, Marjorie Paganelli, to give us valuable information and tips about falls prevention. We had new guests join us as well as a member of RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Association) who wrapped up the meeting with an inspiring recap of what she's learned from the RYLA experience particularly noting gratitude has become a hallmark of her young life. Still open to what the youth can teach each one of us, I just want to add that I am grateful for the gift of life, the gift of service, and the gift of each other. Make each day count!

On September 10, another breakfast gathering at 8 am at the Carle Place Diner, drew 12 attendees and although we didn't have a scheduled speaker we used the time to discuss Club plans/activities and to grow in fellowship.  Thanks to Diane Marmann's invitation, we welcomed two leaders of the Nassau Central Club as guests, Rabbi Art Vernon and Lucille Marzolini, who shared:  that their service projects  include a sneaker drive and a coat drive, they sponsor scholarships, a scout troop and the coffee service at The INN soup kitchen, plus they host a spring dinner fundraiser that brings in $40K!  They are 74 years old this year and have 18 members.  It was great to learn about their programming and be inspired by their enthusiasm for all things Rotary!  Other business to share:
  • Thanks to follow-up by Jim and Gary, the dues checks have been rolling in.  We so appreciate the on-going support of membership which helps sustain us and gives lift to our work.
  • Jim and Gary also gave a brief update about RotaCare noting that their essential primary care to the uninsured saves taxpayers $4-5 million annually, they have hired a part-time development professional to help secure funds to meet rent payments, a luncheon is planned next week for their staff and volunteers, and they are seeking to expand hours of operation by recruiting more volunteers.
  • Tina's networking group, Step Ahead, donated a portion of their recent meeting proceeds to Gift of Life after attending our Rotary meeting that featured founder Robbie Donno and being inspired by the mission.
  • Meg attended the Rotary District 7255 Happenings this past Saturday and gave an update on what was presented.  Flyers are attached with details around General Needs drives. Annual Rotary Foundation Luncheon, November 10th, Membership Committee series of training webinars, Gift of Life celebrating 50,000th child, and Screening of film featuring Robbie Donno, founder Gift of Life.
  • We are so excited to welcome new member, Karen Casavecchia, V.P. Branch Manager, Flushing Bank.  This was her second meeting and she noted she was seeking out a more intimate group that was a good fit!
Diana said she "was so encouraged as we kept adding tables to accommodate attendees who kept wandering through the door--we are hitting our stride!  Tomorrow is a very important day of remembrance and I just wanted to share that I'll be holding dear to heart all the Garden City and Mineola residents who lost their lives that day and the families still grieving their loss."
 
On September 24, thanks to Althea Robinson's expert coordination, the luncheon meeting gathered 12 of us for an informative presentation on fire safety by Garden City Fire Department Chief James Taunton and Ex-Chief Joe Nadolny.  They announced that Fire Prevention Day at the Garden City Fire Department will be held October 6 and since a family event, all ages are welcome to attend.  After converting to an all volunteer department, member numbers are up including women recruits. They gave excellent tips around fire safety especially the importance of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors and their installation/placement in the home plus reminding each of us to check on their battery levels and equipment expiration.  For further information, please access their website at https://www.gcfdny.com/ or their FaceBook page at https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=garden%20city%20fire%20department.  Other announcements to share:
  • Regarding the December 18 holiday/CSA event, Althea Robinson asked the group for input around two important decisions and this is what we reached consensus on:  (1) we will opt for the buffet dinner since menu is more expanded, get bigger bang for the buck, and it worked well at a prior CSA dinner and (2) the Garden City Orchestra will play during the cocktail period in the salon beginning at 6:15 and ending at 6:30 pm.  Following their performance, we will move into the main room to continue the festivities.  That way the Orchestra members can stay in the salon to eat (Althea negotiated a discounted rate for their refreshments) and be able to leave the event more expeditiously.  Diane Marmann will be creating a ticket link and QR code to take credit cards (with a processing fee) for the event.  Tina O'Keeffe will be coordinating raffle baskets.  Joanne Meyer-Jendras will be accepting RSVPs (including early reservations if needed).  Jim Brady reminded members this is our only fundraiser this year and it is critical and incumbent on us to ensure its success.  
  • Gary Jendras, RotaCare Board President, brought RotaCare drawstring bags and brochures to share with attendees and announced their next fundraiser will center around Giving Tuesday.  Scanned brochure attached. 
  • Tina O'Keeffe is heading up St. Anne's Spirit Day on Saturday, October 5 from 1-9 pm and welcomes attendees to enjoy a day of rides and games for all ages, DJ, raffles, fall plant sale, craft fair, food and refreshments, and night at the races with casino games.
I have to admit I am still really charmed by the tradition of Happy Dollars--it's so great to hear not only the wonderful things happening in our lives but also to embrace the comaraderie in the room and genuine delight in cheering each other on--good stuff!  I wish everyone could have heard Bob Bonagura's story about his experience at St. Andrews' first tee--we all felt the joy!  Diana
 
Thanks to Althea Robinson's expert coordination, at today's luncheon meeting 12 of us gathered for an informative and well-received presentation by New York State Assemblyman Ed Ra.  I've attached the most recent Garden City News "This Week at Rotary" with Althea's recap of Assemblyman Ra's impressive background.  He emphasized his priorities are transparency and accountability in the state budget process, rooting out public corruption, and promoting public safety.  He gave specific examples of his efforts to achieve those priorities as well as introducing a personally inspired initiative around bone marrow transplants being added to the organ donor registry.  He also presented me with a Woman of Distinction Award that Althea nominated me for.  Although I knew this was happening ahead of time, I didn't know how I would feel about it and I was truly honored for my work at the Long Island Volunteer Center and humbled by the fact he and his staff took notice of it. 
 
The real treat today was that Heidi and Tom Gelsdorf were visiting from Charlottesville VA and took the time to be with us.  Tom is a former and very accomplished (2009-2009) Rotary District Governor as well as leader in our Club for many years.  He is beloved by members of Mineola-Garden City Rotary Club who warmly welcomed him and his delightful wife Heidi.  It added to the fellowship the meeting strives to make happen.   
 
Regarding the December 18 holiday/CSA event, Althea Robinson announced we will be going for the buffet as was decided at the last meeting (thank you Bob for your leadership on that discussion) and that we reached consensus on having the the Garden City High School Chamber Orchestra play during the now extended cocktail period in the salon--cocktails are served at 6 pm and the performance with begin at 6:30 and end at 6:45 pm.  Following their performance, we will move into the main room to continue the festivities.  That way the Orchestra members can stay in the salon to eat (Althea negotiated a discounted rate for their refreshments) and be able to leave the event more expeditiously.  More exciting details about the event forthcoming!
 
On behalf of our club, I attended the Rotary regional meeting this past Saturday at the Central Moriches Free Public Library. The meeting was expertly run by our District Governor Nominee Lydia Wells, and I learned so much from club representatives across Suffolk County. Winter blanket & clothing drive is coming up as well as a peace youth essay contest worth looking into. I was there to get ideas about ways to celebrate our 100th anniversary and listen to their experiences with “club runner” which we are testing out on a trial basis for its website capabilities for member management and communications. It was a great networking opportunity as well as professional development around strategic planning and setting goals for club sustainability.
 
I want to especially give a shout out to our Sargeants-at-Arms, Martin for taking over the construction of the flagpole and Helmut who gave a sincere and inspiring invocation today.  Both are essential greeters and set an important tone for every meeting!  Diana
 
At today's luncheon meeting on October 22, 16 of us came together to hear from Rotary District 7255 District Governor Beverly James and we were treated to both an inspirational presentation about "all things Rotary" as well as a heartfelt exhortation for each of us to be instruments of peace.  Attached is Althea Robinson's beautifully written biography of DG James published last week in the Garden City City News This Week at Rotary column.  Our own Assistant District Governor, and Club Past President/Treasurer, Diane Marmann gave a rousing introduction of DG James who went on to describe her vision around Rotary pillars (including environment, maternal/child health, prevention of disease, literacy) each centered under the overarching umbrella of peace which pervades the work.  DG James also officially inducted and pinned new Club members Katherine Nerko and Randy Colahan and installed the incoming Club board of directors each pledging to honor the Rotary mission and live out its high ideals.  Upcoming meetings/gatherings:

November 5 food drive on Election Day to benefit The INN from 10 am to 2 pm at Kings Supermarket. 

November 19 breakfast meeting at the Carle Place Diner.

Salvation Army Bell Ringing at Kings Supermarket will be December 7
 
December 18 Holiday/CSA dinner will be held at the Stewart Manor County Club from 6-10 pm.

 
 Other announcements to share:
  • Diana O'Neill gave a rundown of what has transpired over the past 5 months and announced that (after a month free trial) the Club now has an official website using the Club Runner platform, a proprietary web-based program that facilitates club management and communications, which the board approved the subscription for.  Here is the link:  https://mineolagardencityrotaryclub.com/.  Gary Jendras, RotaCare board president, asked that we include a link to the RotaCare website.
  • Diane Marmann promoted Club member participation in next Spring's District Conference scheduled for April 25-27 at The Water's Edge Resort & Spa in Westbrook CT.  Flyer attached.
  • Joanne Meyer-Jendras handed out volunteer sign-up forms for one hour shifts to support the November 5 food drive at Kings that will benefit The INN.  Diana secured a foam-backed poster to use at the drive to track donated pounds and items and for a backdrop for photos.
  • Bob Schoelle passed around a sign-up form for for the December 7 Salvation Army bell ringing and encouraged members to take one hour shifts alongside the local Scout troop.  It's an important Club tradition that supports the Hempstead Corps with its essential community-based work.
  •  Althea Robinson is working with Garden City Village leadership on Club donation of a tree in honor of our 100th anniversary and asked the Salvation Army at their recent Volunteer Recognition event if they could provide music for the bell ringing.
  • Several members of the December 18 event planning committee stayed after the meeting to discuss the contents of the invitation and get advice from Ray Sikorsky on next steps.  Another planning meeting is scheduled for October 24.  Momentum is building!
Speaking of Ray, everyone was so glad to see him at the meeting!  He gave a wonderful invocation that set the tone for the proceedings asking us to be kind to each other, a lesson he learned from his mother, and to truly live in the moment appreciating it as an appointed time.  Diana
 
On December 18 we will celebrate a prelude to our 100th anniversary at a holiday dinner with community service awards to exceptional leaders at the Stewart Manor Country Club from 6-10 pm.
Our honorees are Mineola Mayor Paul Pereira and Garden City Public Library Trustees Chair Randy Colahan.  Additional details:
  • ·         Registration charge for individuals:  $125.00/per person
  • ·         Table of 10 charge with one ticket discounted:  $1,125.00
  • ·         Diane will create a QR code for credit card payments and add a processing charge.
  • ·         Althea coordinating entertainment
  • ·         Joanne will take RSVPs.
  • ·         Tina will coordinate raffle baskets and hopes to secure at least 20 baskets using the "choice auction" method (tickets in bags).  Ideas shared for gift items included wine basket, lottery ticket tree, restaurant gift cards, dinner and a show at Diane's theatre, and gifts that could be combined into larger baskets.  Diana shared a solicitation letter that could be used to obtain items.
  • ·         Meg created and disseminated a save the date announcement.
  • ·         Formal invitations will be printed that will include inserted raffle tickets.  Diane will sell tickets far and wide.  Diana suggested a QR code to a list of raffle items to allow ticket purchasers to select prizes.  Jennifer volunteered to stuff and address invitations.
  • ·         Diana, Meg and Althea will work on the event program.
  • ·         Sponsorships will be secured at different monetary levels with varying benefits.  Diana drafted a form for this purpose which is under review.  Ads will also be secured and published in the event program.  Randy will print the form and suggested adding bronze and silver page options for program ads.
  • ·         Althea will promote through her weekly “Rotary This Week” columns in the Garden City News which Meg publishes.
Our November 19 breakfast meeting attracted 16 attendees and was a great introduction to the essential community work of the Salvation Army Hempstead Corps especially in anticipation to the upcoming December 7 Mineola-Garden City Rotary bell ringing at Kings Food Market.  Here is a recap of the proceedings:  
  • Althea Robinson graciously introduced our featured speakers, Major Silvia Ocasio and Captain Luis Ocasio, who each gave an overview of their responsibilities in promoting community events around Thanksgiving baskets for 200 families that will be distributed tomorrow, the Angel Tree holiday gift program (see attached tri-fold) for up to 350 recipients, and annual bell ringing that secures $63,000 for this area underwriting 1% of their overhead expenses.  Also attending this morning was NYC-based Stephen Ditmer, Greater New York Salvation Army Donor Coordinator, who supports 38 different community centers throughout the region.  There was great interest in how community needs are met through their myriad services and earnest conversation and questions continued even as breakfast was served/consumed!
  • Our bell ringing coordinator for over 40 years, Bob Schoelle, commended the speakers and thanked all the Club members who signed up to volunteer for one-hour shifts scheduled for Saturday, December 7, at the back entrance of Kings Food.  He greatly appreciates the support of Randy Colahan who is learning the ropes for this beloved event of the season.
  • Althea gave a thorough recap of December 18 holiday dinner/CSA plans and thanked Ray Sikorski for his expertise in creating the beautiful invitation and for agreeing to be event emcee extraordinaire.  Her upcoming "This Week at Rotary" article is dedicated to event promotion.  On behalf of Tina O'Keefe, Diana handed out raffle gift solicitation forms for members to use to obtain donations.  
  • Jim Brady announced that RotaCare is promoting a Giving Tuesday campaign (see attached messaging) to help underwrite annual rent expenses.  Currently they are serving 1000 patients and are open 2 days a week.  He also highlighted the partnership with NYU Langone Hospital - Long Island Wish Clinic (https://engage.nyu.edu/organization/liwishclinic).
  • Joanne Meyer-Jendras thanked the 12 Club volunteers for staffing the recent food drive at Key Food that benefitted The INN.  Goals for items and pounds of food were far exceeded and The INN couldn't have been more pleased with the generosity of Key Food patrons--it was a fun and productive event!  Diane Marmann suggested doing more food drives to spread the goodwill!
  • A guest of Diana's, Kymona Tracey, NYU Langone Hospital - Long Island's Department of Community Outreach and Education, gave a brief introduction to the Hempstead Community Health Needs Assessment she is overseeing that has a strong concentration on addressing food insecurity.  She looks forward to supporting the community needs Salvation Army expressed today.
Hope everyone received The Guide to Garden City 2024-2025 and had the chance to see the "Welcome to Rotary" promotion created by Althea on pages 90-91!  Many thanks to Meg Norris, Garden City News Editor, who publishes the guide and, as immediate past president, continues to advance "all things Rotary!" Happy Thanksgiving one and all--I am so grateful you are in my life! Diana
 
13 of us gathered at our first lunch meeting of 2025 on Tuesday, January 14, at Mineola’s Davenport Press restaurant and were treated to an enthusiastic guest speaker, Joseph Umana, Garden City Village arborist.  He explained about the importance of maintaining Garden City’s tree lined streets, recognizing the environmental benefits, and working to increase our overall tree canopy as the aim of the new Tree Policy recently unanimously passed by the Village Board of Trustees.  He will have an integral part in this on-going process.  
 
Also discussed at the meeting:
  • Recap of successful December 18 Holiday Dinner and Community Service Awards Celebration (check out mineolagardencityrotaryclub.com for details)
  • Plans to secure a tree to donate to the Village to commemorate our 100th anniversary
  • Announcement of a Super Bowl pool
  • Efforts to support RotaCare's Caregiver's Ball on April 10
  • January toiletry drive to benefit MOMMAS House
  • February household goods/cleaning product drive to benefit General Needs
In addition, we welcomed two members of the Central Nassau Rotary Club who presented their club flag to us.