Welcome to Naples Gulf Shore Sunset Rotary Club

Welcome to the Official Blog of the Naples Gulf Shore Sunset Rotary Club, Naples, Florida. This blog will be updated frequently giving the latest meeting information and speakers as well as highlighting the important functions of Rotary both on the local level as well as the international level. Feel free to eMail us at anytime by clicking here. Our postal mail address is P.O. Box 352, Naples, Florida 34106 and telephone contact is 239-435-6308 Naples Gulf Shore Sunset Rotary Club was chartered in July 1, 2015 with Naples Sunset Rotary Club and Gulf Shore Rotary Club merging. It meets the first and second Wednesdays at the Hyatt House Naples, 1345 Fifth Avenue S., Naples, Florida at 7:30am and the third and fourth Thursdays at 5:30pm.

Upcoming Rotary Schedule

December 6, 2017 Naples Gulf Shore Sunset Rotary Cliub Meeting

 

November 30, 2017 Naples Gulf Shore Sunset Rotary Club Meeting

 

On Thursday evening, November 30, 2017, President Jim Juliano led the club in the invocation and pledge.  Sgt at Arms Olga Schulz collected Happy Bucks and introduced our frequent Rotarian guest from England, Syd Horsfield. Doug Haughey then introduced  two guests  /prospective new members Carol Franciosi  and David Johnson and gave a brief summary of our service  volunteer efforts at the  recent CME golf event.  Treasurer Jim Davidson  introduced his guest, a prospective Rotaract candidate and his spouse Kim. Attendance total  11; club members 6.

 

President Elect Mel Drury presented a  PP draft of the new Naples Gulf Shore Sunset  Rotary Club website  being  developed and asked  for input from all members on ideas/suggestions to  enhance its effectiveness as  a communications tool for our club and a PR/ image  builder for Rotary as well.

 

President Elect Mel Drury then introduced guest Speaker Leslie Dean Drury. Leslie is a VA Accredited Attorney & Financial Advisor assisting Veterans with appeals in the federal courts and the little known VA benefit called “Aid & Attendance” which provides veterans (or their surviving spouse) a tax-free monthly benefit of up to $2,800, making a gigantic difference in their lives.  She handed out literature/application forms and presented a  video of the American Association of Wartime Veterans mission  and accomplishments.

Since 2002,  AAWV has obtained $145,000,000  fo needy and deserving veterans by working through the Federal VA  veteran appeals system. Leslie provides her services  pro bono to veterans or their surviving spouse/child and urged  any member who knows someone who may need help and believes they are eligible to receive these tax free improved pension benefits, to contact her office. Her service is not limited to veterans  with a Florida residence,  as she can provide help to veterans residing anywhere in the USA.

Our guest speaker Leslie , then led the club in the Four Way Test to  conclude the meeting.

Below is the calendar schedule of upcoming events and club meetings. unless otherwise stated, all club meetings are at the Hyatt House

DECEMBER IS DISEASE AND PREVENTION MONTH

 

Calendar Events

December 2        - 5:00PM at Mercato  starting at Cavo ( 5-6PM), then Capital Grille 6-7:30PM and Burn(7:45 PM-?) – Christmas/Holiday Party

December 4        - 5:30PM Board Meeting at Rob Samouce’s office (Officers and members only)

December 6        - 7:30AM on Wednesday - Speaker Adams Roberts,CEO  Rotary Action Group- Hepatitis Zero

December 13     - 7:30AM on Wednesday – TBD

December 15     - on Friday- Salvation Army Bell Ringing Service Project ( Jon Titus coordinating  - Wynn’s market

December 16     -  0n Saturday -Meals of Hope volunteer  Rotary  food packing event- Ritz Carlton Naples Beach - 1:30 PM-3:30 PM Register  on line

December 21      - 6:00PM on Thursday - Speaker -  Octagon CME volunteer group ( not confirmed)

December 25      -Christmas Day - NO CLUB EVENTS  - MERRY CHRISTMAS TO  ALL MEMBERS AND YOUR FAMILIES

December 28      - Thursday 6:00PM  SCHEDULED MEETING CANCELLED - NO MEETING

March 18             - Colors of Hope fund raising  dinner  Naples Sailing  and Yacht Club  - SAVE THE DATE

Upcoming Meeting Schedule

November 16, 2017 Naples Gulf Shore Sunset Rotary Meeting

On Thursday evening, November 16, 2017 President Elect Melvin Drury led the club in the invocation and pledge.  Sgt at Arms Olga Schulz collected Happy Bucks and introduced our frequent Rotarian guest from England, Syd Horsfield.  It’s always a pleasure seeing and hearing from our visiting Rotarians. 

The Hallowine attendee results were reviewed and discussed among the members with great ideas for improvement in 2018.  We are asking anyone who would like to participant as Hallowine Chair next year and set on the committee to contact Melvin Drury.  More importantly, we are already in the hunt for 2018 main sponsor, so please submit any suggestions to Melvin Drury.  We are looking to fill the sponsorship by the end of the year.  This is our club’s signature fundraiser and involvement is very rewarding, so please show your Rotarian spirit and volunteer!

In an effort to help improve your club experience, Melvin Drury presented a presentation from the Atlanta Rotary International Convention on “Flexibility & Change” centered towards Rotary clubs and meeting formats.  Members present were very engaged and optimistic with some great ideas and solutions to position our club on the path of future success.  A special committee will be formed to assist with the development and implementation of a future successful plan.  Everyone is encouraged to call or email Melvin Drury with any member’s suggestions.

With all that great fellowship, we extended our time slightly and then Walter Douglas led the club in the Four Way Test to conclude the meeting.

Mark your calendars, unless otherwise stated, all our meetings are at the Hyatt House Naples.

Upcoming Speaker Leslie Dean will be November 30^th.  Leslie is a VA Accredited Attorney & Financial Advisor assisting Veterans with appeals in the federal courts and the little known VA benefit called “Aid & Attendance” which provides veterans (or their surviving spouse) a tax-free monthly benefit of up to $2,800, making a gigantic difference in their lives.  Come hear how Leslie positively impacts veterans’ lives.

Calendar Events

November 22     -  Farm City BBQ at Cambier Park

November 23     - Thanksgiving Day (no meeting)

November 30     - 6:00pm on Thursday – Speaker Leslie Dean, VA Accredited Attorney and Financial Advisor

December 2        - 5:00pm at Mercato (starting at Cavo, then Capital Grille and Burn) – Christmas Party

December 4        - 5:30pm Board Meeting at Rob Samouce’s office (Officers and members only)

December 6        - 7:30am on Wednesday - Speaker Adams Roberts, Hepatitis Zero

December 13     - 7:30am on Wednesday – Speaker TBD

December 15     - Salvation Army Bell Ringing Service Project

Dictionary Day 2017

Celebrating Dictionary Day 2017 with all the below local pictures where our club Naples Gulf Shore Sunset Rotary gave out dictionaries!! Greattime for all!!

November 1, 2017 Naples Gulf Shore Sunset Rotary Meeting

On Wednesday mornring, December 1, 2017 President Jim Juliano led the club in the invocation and pledge. Sgt  at Arms Olga Schulz  collected Happy Bucks and introduced guest , Bob  Zottola, whose Jazz  band performed outstandingly at Hallowine 2017 for our club last Wednesday. Hallowine Chair Mel  Drury then gave a detailed financial  wrap of the most  successful Hallowine event in our club’s history.  A discussion of  how to improve for ext years event followed. Congratulations to Mel and the 16 Naples Gulf Shore Rotarians  who volunteered their time to make  Hallowine 2017 a tremendous  success.  Attendance was seven (7).

Jim then introduced guest speaker, J.R. Philp, Board Director  of Naples Greater Leadership. JR discuss the makeup  and mission of GNL,  stating is  was a group  of 850 Naples residents bonding together to give back to the community based on the ski;; they acquired  during they  career   before  settling in Naples , FL. It is a private organization  whose members pay  dues and meet regularly to discuss projects and programs. Painting  Cottage House  in downtown  Naples, Meeting  with  Collier County Commissioner Penny Taylor to discuss community needs  and hosting the  National Director of the Alzheimer’s Association.  GNLfocus is to "make a difference” in our community by  their service.  Sounds similar to this years  Rotary International President Ian Reisley’s Theme  -  Rotary- Making a Difference     

JR Philp then led the club in the Four Way Test to conclude the meeting.

Mark your calendars, unless otherwise stated, all our meetings are at the Hyatt House Naples.

Wed morning Nov 6, 7:30 AM: Club Assembly - Speaker Jon Kukk- Rotary Foundation and PHF

Fri. morning Nov10, Dictionary Day .. Bill Towers coordinating  volunteers at four Collier County school venue

Nov.13 , 5:00PM  Area 1 Presidents meeting  Joey D’s Pizza

Nov.16, 17, 18, 19 -  CME Concession volunteers at Tiburon Golf Club- Doug Haughey coordinating club volunteers

Thurs Evening Nov16 -  Speaker TBD

Thurs November 23- Happy Thanksgiving to  all - No meeting

Thurs evening Nov 30, 6:00 PM Speaker TBD

Monday  Evening Dec 4, 5:30 PM  Board meeting  Rob Samouce office

Wed Morning Dec 6,  Hepatitis Zero Speaker - Adam Roberts

October 11, 2017 Naples Gulf Shore Sunset Rotary Club Meeting

On Wednesday mornring, October 11, 2017 President Jim Juliano led the club in the invocation and pledge.Visitor introduction of guest Rotarian Sandy Harter( Pelican Bay Club). Sandy discussed ongoing  Hurricane Irma relief efforts  by Rotary  clubs in  our district being  coordinated bySandy Hempstead  at District 6960. A brief Hallowine planning update followed.

Jim then introduced guest speaker, Cecilia St. Arnold, the Executve Director of Blessings in a Backpack. Cecilia presented an update of Blessings in a Backpack efforts to provide elementary school children in Collier County who are on Federal Free and Reduced lunch programs, with a pre-pack of food to take home every Friday.She gave updated statistics on how the number of elementary school children in the program since Hurricane Irma has increased from 3,200 to 4,000 in Collier County alone. 16 elementary schools in Collier/Lee Counties are in the program.  The total potential for providing  these meals  in Collier  County is 31,000 children. Blessings in a Backpack coordinates efforts in Collier County with Meals of Hope and other organizations to increase their services in the aftermath of Irma. 

Cecilia committed to provide at least 15 college students to volunteer at Hallowine 2017. Her volunteers will man participant venue locations to stamp passports and assist in the many raffle prize ticket sales during the evening. They will arrive early on the day of the event and be assigned locations and given brief training on  their duties. The Club is  grateful to Ceeilia and Blessings in a BackPack for providing this support.

She then led the Club in the Four Way Test to conclude the meeting.

Mark your calendars, unless otherwise stated, all our meetings are at the Hyatt House Naples.

Thurs. Evening October 19, 6:00PM: Club Assembly  - Final  planning session for Halllowine 2017

Wed Evening October 25,6:00PM- 9:00PM: Halliwine  2017 event  Mercato

Thurs Evening October 26,2017 6:00PM  - Digital Operating Systems for Small and Medium Size Business - Marcus P. Zillman, M.S., A.M.H.A.

Wed Morning November 1,7:30 AM : Collier County Leadership -   JR Philp

October 4, 2017 Naples Gulf Shore Sunset Rotary Meeting

On Wednesday morning October 4, Membership  Chair Robbie Selby led the club in a moving invocation and pledge. Sgt. at Arms Olga Schulz collected happy bucks. Olga then introduced guest Ricardo Ferrer, a prospective club member. President Jim Juliano introduced visitig Rotarian Sandy Harter,who, along with club members  Jon Kukk and Tony Powers participated in Hurricane Irma disaster tree clearing relief efforts in Everglades City last week. Jim then introduced two visiting Rotarians from Illinois and Missouri ,Christopher White and Charles Pinkston who have been in Naples for two weeks with the Salvation Army helping with Irma disaster relief efforts in Collier County. Chris and Charles described their their efforts to provide relief for hurricane victims in detail. They will be here  for  a few more weeks. Thanks to all the Rotarians who demonstrated true "Service before Self” Rotarian Spirit. Our  community is grateful to them.  Members attendance - 10.

Hallowine Chair Mel Drury, then updated the club on the status of Hallowine 2017 fund raising efforts. We have secured 10 restaurant  venues to participate this year and collected  over 20 items from raffle sponsors, a record number to be used to generate additional revenues. Mel then handed out posters to members to be used to promote sales and reported that over 90 tickets have been sold already, toward our goal of 350. A great start to this years major fundraiser for our club. An "all hands on deck" effort to use for ticket sales will be implemented during the next 20 days. Thanks to all Hallowine Committee and club members engaged in this effort.

Mark your calendars, unless otherwise noted, all our meetings are at the Hyatt House Naples

October is Economic  and Community Development Month

Wed Morning Oct 11, 7:30 AM Cecilia St Arnold Blessings in a Backpack

 

Friday  evening Oct 6, 5:00PM -  Club Social at The Pub - a participating  Wine walk  venue 

 

Thursday Evening October 19, TBD - Final Hallowine 2017 Committee meeting

 

Wednesday Evening October 25,  6:00PM- 9:00PM Hallowine  2017 at the Mercato

 

Thursday Evening October 26 6:00PM TBD First Hallowine 2018 Committee meeting SPONSORS

Upcoming Naples Gulf Shore Sunset Rotary Meeting & Event Schedule

September 28, 2017 Naples Gulf Shore Sunset Rotary Meeting

On Thursday evening September 28th, 2017, President Jim Juliano  led the club in the invocation and pledge.  Sgt. at Arms Olga Schulz collected happy bucks ( a large response from members about hurricane Irma experiences and recovery efforts. Olga then introduced guest Steve Mastrangelo  a prospective club member. Mel  Drury updated the club the planning efforts  for   Hallowine 2017 as we move to the ticket sales promotion phase. Total member attendance 10.

President Jim Juliano introduced guest speaker Deb Logan, Executive Director Blue Zones Project -SouthWest Florida. Deb gave an outstanding Power Point presentation on its mission. Sponsored by NCH, Blue Zones has a long term program to become  a part of transforming well being so the healthy choices become easy for individuals, companies and your community. She outlined a POWER 9  set of principles focused on having people live longer by applying these mental and physical principles learned from people in areas of the world that have lived the longest ( Blue Zones). Global studies have proven that lifestyle choices have 80% impact on healthy living  and longevity, as opposed to  genetic and inherited makeup factors. People in communities and organizations are encouraged to  take actions via a personal pledge that helps them achieve the following promises: a) Live Longer; b) Have more energy and  become healthier; c)Meet new people  and nurture supportive  friendships; d) Discover your purpose and put it to work; and e) Be the change makes your community a better place to live

Blue Zones Project  will participate in our annual Hallowine Event by manning a table and handing out information on their organization's efforts to  have everyone LIVE LONGER BETTER. Hallowine  participants will be exposed to a POWER 9  principle called  Wine@ Five, among others, which states: "Enjoy a glass  wine with friends each day.”

Deb Logan was presented  with one of our Club banner flags, to reinforce that our Rotary club  and Blue Zones Project  will continue to mutually support this health initiative in the future. She then led the club in closing with our Four Way Test.

Mark your calendars, unless otherwise noted, all our meetings are at the Hyatt House Naples

October is Economic  and Community Development Month

Wed Morning Oct 4 7:30 AM: TBD

Wed Morning Oct 11 7:30 AM Cecilia St Arnold Blessings in a Backpack

Thursday Evening October 19, TBD - Final Hallowine 2017 Committee meeting

Wednesday Evening October 25,  6:00PM- 9:00PM Hallowine  2017 at the Mercato

Thursday Evening October 26 6:00PM TBD First  Hallowine 2018 Committee meeting SPONSORS

             

September 6, 2017 Naples Gulf Shore Sunset Rotary Meeting

On Wednesday, Sept 6, 2017 7:30 Breakfast meeting, President Jim Juliano led the invocation and pledge. Sargent at Arms Olga Schulz took attendance and introduced her her guest Steve Mastrangelo, a prospective new member. Total attendance was three members.

President Jim Juliano introduced guest speaker Penny Taylor - Chair of the Collier County Board of Commissioners. Commissioner Taylor gave a  timely presentation on Collier County flood zones and the need to remedy the situation in the future. Rapid growth and development has exacerbated flood prone areas and streets. The County has not funded the necessary projects to prevent future flooding incidents and  this will  be recommended in funding requests later this year. She cited one case where attempts to remedy flooding on Central Ave and US 41 had failed this year, after spending millions. 

Commissioner Taylor fielded questions on how Rotary can serve community needs  from  the County Commissions perspective and she recommended serving the children of Collier County.
With respect to any tree planting Rotary initiative, she indicated Baker Park might be a great place for Rotary to consider. Commissioner Taylor led the club in the 4 way test and the meeting was closed.

The Naples Gulf Shore Sunset Rotary club expresses its appreciation  to and and respect for  Commissioner Taylor  who took the time to address our club despite having an  emergency Hurricane Irma Commission meeting scheduled  later that morning. We are  grateful to her for sharing her thoughts on  serving community needs in Collier County .

Mark your calendars, unless otherwise stated all are meetings  are at Hyatt House Naples( Expected to reopen  Sept 19)

Naples Gulf Shore Sunset Rotary Social August 17, 2017

The first social event of the 2017-2018 year was held last night at the Mercato. Social Committee co- chairs Anne Towers and Robbie Selby did a great job planning and organizing this. Thanks to both of you. Attendance was 14, including two spouses and one new prospective club member who will be sponsored by Secretary Mikael Groendahl. We took the opportunity to recognize and congratulate the 2016- 2017 Rotary Board Member of the Year, Jon Titus, who was presented with a pin and the award for organizing the most successful Paintball event ever. Thanks Jon, for being engaged and your support.

We supported two of our participating venues for the upcoming Hallowine 2017 event, BURN and Naples Flatbread. Hallowine Event Chair and President Elect Mel Drury discussed some of the sponsor acquisition activities and ideas to expand sponsorship participation. All ideas and any sponsor candidates should be sent to Mel ASAP. Two raffle sponsor gifts were collected from two Mercato venues, McCormick & Schmick’s and Hand & Stone. We now have four sponsor gifts in hand. Our target is at least 12. Tony Powers is working on securing raffle sponsors from non restaurant venues at the Mercato, Dan Herrington  is contacting  new management at The Silver Spot to remain as a  Venue participant and sponsor, and Olga Schulz is putting the finishing touches on Wicked Wicker’s  showpiece furniture raffle prize.

Remind all your friends, Facebook contacts,relatives ,etc. that tickets are now on sale for Hallowine 2017 at the Eventbrite website.

Mark you calendars, unless otherwise stated, all our meetings are at the Hyatt House Naples:

Thurs. Evening, August 24, 6:00PM: Club Assembly- Hallowine 2017

Thurs. Evening, August 31, 6:00PM: TBD

Wed. Morning, Sept 6, Breakfast 7:30 AM: Penny Taylor -Collier County Board of Commissioners

Upcoming Meeting Schedule - Naples Gulfshore Sunset Rotary August-September

August 9, 2017 Naples Gulf Shore Sunset Rotary Meeting

On Wednesday morning August 9, 2017, President Jim Juliano led the club in the invocation and pledge. Sgt. at Arms Olga Schulz collected Happy Bucks and introduced visiting Rotarian Sandy Harter from the Pelican Bay Club. Club member attendance was eight (8).

A few items from the Atlanta International meeting were reviewed with attendees. An autographed book on Rotary Peace Fellows titled “A String of Pearls by Rotarian David C. Forward, which was introduced to 20,000 Rotarians in Atlanta, was acquired by the club and will be auctioned off at a future meeting, A Rotarian Action Group ( RAG) has been established with a mission to eradicate the world  from Hepatitis. Over 500 million people worldwide are carrying the virus and they show no signs of the condition until late stages.

President Jim Juliano then introduced Guest Speaker Keith Maples, Chief Development Officer for the Neighborhood Health Clinic. The organization was started in 1999 with a vision of its founders Nancy and Dr. Bill Lascheid. Their mission was to “make a difference” in the lives of needy Collier County residents by providing quality medical  and dental  care to low income, working adults, with a professional staff of volunteer doctors and dentists. The Clinic is completely funded by private philanthropy- No government funding. In 2016, 90% of every income dollar went to patient services. Also in 2016, almost 10,000 patient visits took place and 27,000 procedures were performed on patients. Keith showed a brief PP Presentation on the organization and two short videos on their doctors and dentists. The service provided by the Neighborhood Clinic is truly amazing and demonstrates the “Service before Self” approach of its founders and volunteers.

Reminder: August is Membership and New Club Development Month on the RI calendar

Mark your Calendars, unless otherwise stated, all our meetings are at the Hyatt House Naples

Thursday Evening Aug 17 – No Meeting – Club Social at The Mercato venue Burn

Thursday Evening August 24,Dinner 6:00PM TBD

Thursday Evening August 31,Dinner 6:00PM TBD

Wednesday Morning 7:30 AM Penny Taylor - Collier County Board of Commissioners

August 2, 2017 Naples Gulf Shore Sunset Rotary Meeting

On Wednesday morning,  August 2, 2017 Walter Douglas led the Club in the invocation and the pledge. Sgt. At Arms, Olga Schulz, collected happy bucks. and introduced a guest Rotarian from Denmark, Bent Frigaard Rasmussen,who is Assistant  District Director for his District in Sweden. John Roeder asked that at an upcoming club assembly, we review the highlights of our  participation at the RI convention in Atlanta this past June. An excellent suggestion and we will do this. Seven ( 7 ) members and one guest attended this meeting.

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Jim Juliano then introduced our very first speaker  for new Rotary  year, Julie Pedretti, Assistant District Governor for Area 1 , District 6960, under  new DG Bobbie Bird. Julie has six Naples  Rotary Clubs in her area ( Naples/Marco Island) , coordinating the efforts of over 300 local Rotarian members. Nothing new  for Julie who once served  as  President of a 400 member Rotary  Club in Milwaukee WI.  She presented  a slide show on  the new RI initiatives for 2017-2108  and showed two short videos,  one of our new RI President  emphasizing the  “  Rotary, making a difference”  slogan for the new year and one introducing the District 6960  conference to be held at the Hyatt  Resort in Coconut Point in May 2018 as a opportunity for all District 6960 club members. She also discussed a joint area club project being discussed to achieve the goal of planting one tree for every Rotarian in  District 6960 during this Rotary Year as a focus on increasing  humanitarian service.

August is Membership and New Club Development Month  on the Rotary International Calendar

Mark your calendars, unless otherwise stated, all our meetings are at Hyatt House Naples

Wed. Morning August 9,  Breakfast 7:30 AM - Keith Maples Neighborhood Health Clinic

Thurs. Evening August 17,  Dinner 6:00PM TBD

Thurs. Evening August 24,  Dinner 6:00PM TBD

Thurs. Evening  August 31, Dinner 6:00PM TBD

Wed. Morning Sept 6, Breakfast 7:30 AM Penny Taylor -Collier County Board of Commissioners

June 29, 2017 Naples Gulf Shore Sunset Rotary Meeting

On Thursday, June 29th Past-President Rob Samouce gave the invocation and pledge.  Past Sgt. At Arms Robbie Selby then collected happy bucks.  Rob then introduced our guest speaker, Mick Moore of the North Naples Rotary Club.  Mick, owner and proprietor of the very excellent Turtle Club gave a great presentation on the Tanzanian Water Project that our club contributed $5,000 to this last Rotary Year.  The 100K plus project involved matching grants from District, RI and 5 Clubs in Maine in addition to North Naples and our Club participation.  The project involves solar powered water wells and distribution lines in rural Tanzania and will bring clean water to around 500 families along a back road in the Tanzania outback. The project should be completed and up and running by the end of this year and then a phase II costing around 35K is contemplated to extend the distribution lines to serve more needed.

Mark your calendars, unless otherwise stated, all our meetings are at Hyatt House Naples.

No Meeting July 5th

Wednesday Morning July 12th, 7:30 a.m.:  TBD

Thurs. Evening July 20th, 6:00 p.m.:  Club Assembly

Thurs. Evening July 27th, 6:00 p.m.:  TBD

June 22, 2017 Naples Gulf Shore Sunset Rotary Club Installation of New 2017-2018 Officers Dinner

On Thursday, June 22^nd we had our changing of the guard installation dinner at Cooper’s Hawk.  In attendance were about 25 members/spouses/significant others and our new Assistant District Governor for Area 1, Julie Pedretti.  Walter Douglas led us in the invocation and pledge. President Rob Samouce gave a recap of our last Rotary Year wherein we raised over 21 thousand dollars from the Winewalk, Flag and Maple Syrup Sales and the Paintball Tournament.  We donated the monies to 8 deserving causes: Collier County Community Resources, Blessings in a Backpack, Young Life, Guatemala School of Hope, Shelter Box, Tanzania Water Project, Polio Plus, and the Rotary Foundation.

Rob thanked last year’s directors for their service to the club and then awarded New Rotary Member of the year to Olga Schultz, Board Member of the Year to Jon Titus and Rotarian of the Year to Robbie Selby.

Rob then gave the oath of office to new Club President, Jim Juliano. Jim then swore in his new Board, Officers and Committee Chairs. The new Board is:  Dough Haughey, John Paul, Gabby Marvin, Jon Titus, Bill Towers, Olga Schultz (Sgt. At Arms), Mikael Groendahl (Secretary), Jim Davidson (Treasurer), Rob Samouce (Past-President) and Mel Drury (President-Elect). Social and membership co-committee chairs are Anne Towers and Robbie Selby. Thanks to all for stepping up to the plate.

Jim then told us of RI emphasis for the new year including, new member participation, member engagement, and increase fundraising. Please let Jim know we all have his back to make this new Rotary Year an excellent one.

Mark your calendars, unless otherwise stated, all our meetings are at Hyatt House Naples.

Thurs. Evening June 29, 6:00 p.m.:  Tanzanian Water Project

No Meeting July 5th

Wednesday Morning July 12th, 7:30 a.m.:  TBD

Thurs. Evening July 20th, 6:00 p.m.:  Club Assembly

2017 Rotary International Convention

On Saturday, a total of 12 of us (Club Members and Spouses/Significant Others) flew to Atlanta for this year’s International Rotary Convention to celebrate the 100^th anniversary of the RI Foundation along with around 40,000 others in the Rotary Family.  The Rotary Foundation’s first contribution was $26.50 in 1917 and has since contributed over 3.4 Billion Dollars to needy around the world.

We were serenaded in Centennial Park by country singer Ricky Skaggs, we listened to Bill Gates pledge $450 Million Matching Dollars to finally wipe out Polio in the next 3 years which will cost an estimated $1.5 Billion (only 5 reported cases so far this year!), we heard about what Ashton Kutcher and others are doing to stop human slavery worldwide, we found out from Coca Cola’s CEO how it is keeping up with world changes,  we were mesmerized by Ambassador, Andrew Young’s review of the history of Atlanta and we saw Jack Nicholas say that Golf is “just a game” but taking care of family and helping others is what is really important.  

Everyone in the group attended lots of break-out sessions and meet new friends from all over the world in the House of Friendship.  We will have to share our Convention Rotary Moments with the other club members.

Changing of the changing of the guard dinner is coming up on Thursday evening,  June 22^nd at Coopers Hawk.  If you have not done so yet, please e-mail Jim ASAP and let him know if you will be at the dinner and who will be joining you: jdud99@yahoo.com. 

Mark your calendars, unless otherwise stated, all our meetings are at Hyatt House Naples.

Thurs. Evening June 22, 6:00 p.m.:  Changing of the Guard Dinner- Coopers Hawk

Thurs. Evening June 29, 6:00 p.m.:  Tanzanian Water Project

June 7, 2017 Naples Gulf Shore Sunset Rotary Meeting

On Wednesday Morning, June 7, 2017, Sgt. At Arms, Robbie Selby led the Club in an inspiring invocation and the pledge. Robbie then collected happy bucks.  Mel Drury gave us a wrap up of the Paintball Tournament where we netted over $4K for our Foundation charities. Fun was had by all-the Roofcrafter’s team came from behind to win the paintball tourney and the team of Kim Davidson/Jon Kukk won the corn hole tourney.  President, Rob Samouce and Robbie mentioned the Rotary International Convention in Atlanta coming up starting Saturday wherein we have about 14 club related folks going and Rob and President-Elect Jim Juliano went over the changing of the guard dinner on Thursday evening,  June 22^nd at Coopers Hawk.  Please e-mail Jim ASAP and let him know if you will be at the dinner and who will be joining you: jdud99@yahoo.com. 

Rob Samouce then introduced our speaker; Paula DiGrigoli, Executive Director of the NCH Safe & Healthy Children’s Coalition. (Coalition)  The Coalition is a group of over 50 local organizations and businesses working together tackle three issues adversely impacting Collier County youth: obesity, drowning and unsafe sleep (SIDS).  Drowning is the leading cause of death of children age one to four and suffocation (sleep related death) is the leading cause of death for children less than 1 year of age in Collier County. The Coalition distributes the life jackets at the beach parks, conducts swim lesson and water smart (Stewie the Duck and Josh the Otter) classes throughout the County and put together the largest swim class in the world (over 1,300 participants-Guinness Book of World Records at the County water park). For more info go to: safehealthychildren.org

Mark your calendars, unless otherwise stated, all our meetings are at Hyatt House Naples.

Sat. June 10 thru Thurs June. 15: Rotary Convention-Atlanta

Wed. Morning June 14, 7:30 a.m.:  Club Assembly

Thurs. Evening June 22, 6:00 p.m.:  Changing of the Guard Dinner- Coopers Hawk

Thurs. Evening June 29, 6:00 p.m.:  Tanzanian Water Project

2017 Painball Shootout Saturday June 3rd - 9am to 2pm

May 10, 2017 Naples Gluf Shore Sunset Rotary Meeting

On Wednesday Morning, May 10, 2017, President, Rob Samouce, led the Club in the invocation and the pledge. Sgt. At Arms, Robbie Selby, collected happy bucks.  Rob Samouce updated us on upcoming Paintball Tournament (get your teams formed and let Jon know how you can help). 

President-Elect Jim Juliano then introduced our speaker, Sgt. Leslie Weidenhammer, Coordinator of the Mental Health Unit at the Collier County Sheriff’s Office.  The Mental Health Unit partners with local Mental Health Professionals and Mental Health Consumers and their families to help persons with mental disorders access medical treatment rather than place them in the criminal justice system due to mental illness related behaviors.  25% of the general population will suffer mental health issues at one time or another and mental health disorders do not discriminate based upon socioeconomic factors of those having to deal with them. It is much less expensive for the taxpayers to place a mental health suffer in medical treatment if possible rather than incarcerate them.  Jail will typically exacerbate mental health disorders rather than help those suffering.  The Unit also works with understanding the traits and needs of those who have Alzheimer’s and autism. If you know someone who may benefit from talking with Sgt. Weidenhammer, she can be reached at the non-emergency Sheriff’s Office phone number: 252-9300.

Mark your calendars, unless otherwise stated, all our meetings are at Hyatt House Naples.

Thurs. Evening May 18, 6:00 p.m.:  Co-Founding Club Member Bob Hattemer

Thurs. Evening May 25, 6:00 p.m.:  Co-Founding Club Member George Leamon

Sat. Morning, June 3: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.:  Paintball Tournament- In the Estates

Wed. Morning June 7, 7:30 a.m.:  NCH Children’s Coalition

Sat. June 10 thru Thurs June. 15: Rotary Convention-Atlanta

Wed. Morning June 14, 7:30 a.m.:  Club Assembly

Thurs. Evening June 22, 6:00 p.m.:  Changing of the Guard Dinner- Coopers Hawk

Thurs. Evening June 29, 6:00 p.m.:  TBA

May 3, 2017 Naples Gulf Shore Sunset Rotary Club Meeting

On Wednesday Morning, May 3, 2017, Jon Kukk led the Club in a beautiful invocation and the pledge. Sgt. At Arms, Robbie Selby, collected happy bucks.  Jon Titus updated us on the June 3rd Paintball Tournament (start getting your teams lined up and let Jon know how you can help).  Jon Kukk then updated us on the Tanzanian Water Project (description of project emailed). Our Club donated $5,000 to the $119K Grant Project that is being overseen by the North Naples Rotary Club. Our donation will be matched by District and then Rotary International (our 5K turns into $15K then)

President-Elect Jim Juliano then introduced our speaker, Liane Sanson, the local Area Director of Newborns in Need (NinN).  NinN works with the Birth Place at Naples Community Hospital to provide care necessities to the Hospital and other agencies servicing premature, ill or impoverished newborns throughout Collier County.  They provide “Baby Boxes” that can serve as a beginning crib, plus diapers, infant clothing, bottles, bath essentials, infant thermometers, blankets etc.  You can check out more about NinN and see how you can help by visiting their website at: https://newbornsinneed.org/

Mark your calendars, unless otherwise stated, all our meetings are at Hyatt House Naples.

Wed. Morning May 10 7:30 a.m.:  Collier County Sheriff’s Department

Thurs. Evening May 18, 6:00 p.m.:  Co-Founding Club Member Bob Hattemer

Thurs. Evening May 25, 6:00 p.m.:  Co-Founding Club Member George Leamon

Saturday Morning, June 3:  Paintball Tournament- In the Estates

Wed. Morning June 7 7:30 a.m.:  NCH Children’s Coalition

Wed. Morning June 14 7:30 a.m.:  Club Assembly

Thurs. Evening June 22 6:00 p.m.:  Changing of the Guard Dinner- Coopers Hawk