|
As a lifelong resident, it always amazes me to learn of something wonderful in this community that I knew very little about. Tuesday's luncheon with the Dean of the University of Rochester's School of Nursing, Kathy Rideout, was a true eye opener! First of all, Kathy was a terrific speaker and the passion and energy she brings to her calling was contagious. The UR School of Nursing is a world class operation that embodies education, practice, and research. On top of the pressing demands of her role as Dean, Kathy also practices as a pediatric ostomy nurse practitioner at the Golisano Children's Hospital. Her outstanding presentation revealed to us the many faces and diverse backgrounds of those who work and study at the school. She brought the organization to life and gave it personality. She made us all proud to be Rochesterians as she highlighted all that the school does to care for our community with partnerships and alliances that we were not familiar with.
And, as a direct connection to our hearts at Rochester Rotary, she told us that in her 25 years of service at the Golisano Hospital she has encouraged hundreds of parents to send their special needs kids to the Sunshine Camp. It was an emotional moment when she told of a 16 year old that attended Sunshine Camp for the first time after years of suggestions to his parents, who had never let him out of their sight. Sadly, he died just 3 weeks after returning from camp, but not before he had the chance to tell his folks that the week he spent at camp was "the best year of my life." Thanks Kathy . . . you were great!
=============
I have a wonderful story to share with you that speaks to the true meaning of being a proud Rochester Rotarian. In the course of his profession, one of our members was required to make a proposal for professional services to the Board of a local organization. All seemed to be routine until he received a phone call from one of the Board members the night before, warning him that his presentation might be met with suspicion and possibly even hostility towards him and his firm.
The next day at the meeting he opened his remarks by taking out his 4-Way Test Coin, announcing that he was Rotarian, and as such lived and conducted his practice by the highest ethical code of any organization in the world, The Rotary 4-Way Test. He then read the test, and began his presentation. When he finished, he found that the Board Chair had written down each of the 4 points and then reviewed his remarks in their context. She stated to the Board that he had clearly passed the 4-Way Test. He may have had a chilly welcome, but his presentation had a very warm reception.
=============
I know that we are the largest club in District 7120, but I am Walkin' Tall and Talkin' Proud!
So far this Rotary Year, Rochester has given more money to the Rotary Foundation than any other club in our District. $10,290 to be exact, and the year continues until June 30th! A hearty WELL DONE and SINCERE THANKS to everyone who has contributed so generously through Paul Harris Fellowships, Tootsie Roll Club Memberships, Fines and Recognitions, and individual giving.
Gather 'Round - Group Hug - Many Many Thanks!
=============
This week's Tootsie Roll Bright Spot Award Winner is none other than our own Sgt-at-Arms Greg Kausch. Greg was nominated by Carl Krause for meritorious Service Above Self as our ever present Sergeant at Arms and also our Master of Names! It ain't easy to stand up there week after week trying to read the handwriting or correctly pronounce the names on the Guest Register. Greg does an amazing job of this! He is Co-Chair of the highly successful and now famous Euchre Tournament is a regular volunteer at camp and service projects, and he and his wife attend all major Rochester Rotary events. For many years Greg volunteered as a coach for kids soccer and basketball, and currently serves on the Executive Committee of the Rochester General Hospital Foundation Board. Greg is a Chartered Life Underwriter with NL Financial Alliance and a member since 2008. Congratulations Greg!
=============
Judge Johnny's Fines and Recognition Report:
- The Reverend David Durham offered up a $25 "Confessional Fine" for spending an entire month in Mexico without once seeking out a local club for a makeup meeting! No shame at all David, we accept your payment without guilt!
- Past President Jim Isaac volunteered a $25 contribution to celebrate the arrival of a new specially outfitted van that is now Shirley's Royal Coach. I got a full demo and I promise you that the only thing that van does not do is cook Shirley's breakfast!
- Jeff Halik honored his father and longtime loyal Rotarian Fred Halik with a $90 contribution on the occasion of Fred's 90th birthday. Very thoughtful Jeff! And Happy Birthday Fred!!
- Jennifer Hawryschuk was recognized for receiving a Service Above Self Award from the Penfield Rotary Club and being on TV 13 News as a Community Bright Spot. This is a terrific and well deserved honor for Jennifer but I could not help but think that Penfield was engaged in an undercover operation to steal her away from us. As a result, I called President Chris Pappas of the Penfield club and fined him $25 to cover Jennifer's payment. Stick with us Jenn . . . you just got a get-out-of-jail free card!
=============
| 
Join us Tuesday, May 7th for the 13th Annual Law Day luncheon, at the Riverside Convention Center and presentation of the Henry H. Jensen Memorial Award to one of Rochester Police Department's "Unsung Heros" -- 
