Rotary clubs collaborate on project C.U.R.E. Nearly 20 Rotarians from the four West Chester Rotary Clubs, Sunrise, West Chester Passport, WEGO and our club, collaborated on a Rotary Day of Service at the project C.U.R.E. warehouse of Dansko in West Grove. Rotarians from our club, headed up by our Rotary Day of Service coordinator, Mac Neilon, included Jeff Cantwell, Katie Martin, Phil McFadden, Steve Bayles, Melissa Baxter, and new member, Mark Lucas. |
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CWP Project Work Continues Rotarians continue their service to the Community Warehouse Project of Chester County by taking drop-off donations and making deliveries on the 3rd Saturday of each month. Included in the picture are Rotarians Randy Lindel, Jeannie McGinn, Mac Neilon. |
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Fun/Fellowship Committee hosts gala holiday party Jeff Spencer, chair of the Fun and Fellowship Committee, and committee members Joanne Tadeo, Rachel Barakat, Phyllis Dunn, and Patty Jefferis planned the gala holiday party for our club this year. Held at the West Chester Golf and Country Club in the early evening, it was highly decorated by the country club, which lent itself to our holiday gala. Delicious hot hors d' oeuvres were passed by the waiters, and welcomed by Rotarians and their guests to go along with beverages from the bar. A cheese board, dinner, and a luscious hot apple and vanilla ice cream dessert rounded out the tasty food. |
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It's time for the changing of --- the aprons! While England and Arlington engage in the changing of the guard, in Chester County, West Chester Rotarians engage in the changing of Salvation Army aprons at the annual ringing of the bells! And, after many years of supporting this activity, note the NEW aprons this year, modeled by Randy Lindel, that include "Rotary" on them. Acquisition of the personalized aprons was facilitated by the Communications Committee, and Jesus Corraliza, Captain of the local Salvation Army, and a member of our club.At the Amish Market, Katie Martin (left),chair of this Rotary volunteer activity, and Mac Neilon (right) turned over their aprons to Chris McCawley and Howard Sundwall. Bonus - Chris brought her husband, Dwight, who donned an apron and joined in the bell ringing! At Shop Rite, Joe Driscoll and Glen Sweet were one of the teams who rang the bells there. Between the two locations, 36 Rotarians, including a couple of Rotarians from the Passport Rotary Club, teamed up to ring the bells. |
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Rotarians flying high! Approximately 15 District 7450 Rotarians gathered with other daredevils who took the plunge and participated in what has become an annual event – rappelling down the side of a building in Philadelphia to benefit the Philadelphia Outward Bound School! Among those brave souls who took the plunge were our own Kate Diffenderfer and Charles Streitwieser (as well as Bill Friedmann’s wife, Debi, and Carol Hanson’s husband, Dennis Wallace). In fact, Dennis is the one who got Rotary involved in this program in 2015, which has been held annually except for a couple of years due to the pandemic. |
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Welcoming new WCU Students Our club was included in one of the seven events to which new students at West Chester University (WCU) were invited to attend to get acquainted with the West Chester community.Jeff Cantwell and John Schwab were among those who represented our West Chester Rotary Club in at Align Space in the West Chester Borough. John had a chance to visit with Mayor Lillian De Baptiste (her father Clifford has been a member of our club for many years), and Jeff had an opportunity to meet and visit with Miss West Chester University at the gathering. |
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Rotarians honored by Chamber Sue Casso Rogers and Blue Dog Printing and Design were honored at this year’s annual banquet of the Greater West Chester (GWC) Chamber of Commerce. Sue was named 2023 Outstanding Citizen of the Year, sponsored by West Chester University, Blue Dog Printing and Design, founded by Bill and Debi Friedmann, was named 2023 Business of the Year.“Blue Dog s work in the community reaches far beyond their printing, graphic design, mailing services and promotional products business, of which they donate a significant amount to local organizations,” said the moderator in presenting the award to the Friedmann’s. This recognition is very evident to our Rotary Club, having benefited for many years by help from Bill and Debi with the Chili Cook-off and other club activities/events. |
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Rotarians at WCU Volunteer Fair Our club was invited to participate in the Volunteer Fair at West Chester University (WCU), and of course, we accepted! WCU alums and fellow Rotarians, Austin Aimone and Corey Cahill, helped man our table at Sykes Union on the campus. They answered questions, explained Rotary, local and international mission, avenues of service, passed out Rotary tri-folds, provided/ shared info about the upcoming Chili Cook-off (CCO), and encouraged them to volunteer. They also gave away about a dozen free tee shirts from previous CCOs. The head of Greek Life (campus organization of sororities and fraternities) even circulated the Sign-up Genius for the CCO to enlist volunteers! |
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And the winner is... The new 50/50 raffle event at the Chili Cook-off (CCO) this year, the Chili Pepper Drop, was won by our own club member, Glenda Brion, holding her winning little pepper while being congratulated by President Rich Murray! CCO Co-chair Jeff Cantwell reports that $13,000 was raised by the raffle, with half being shared with the raffle winner, and half to be used for Rotary Club good works. Winner Glenda has generously donated her $6,600 winnings to the Community Warehouse Project of Chester County (CWP)! CWP is a multi-service non-profit that collects and redistributes donated furniture and other household items, and works with over 40 Community Partners to benefit individuals, families and veterans. CWP has been well supported by volunteers and Community Philanthropic Grants from our Rotary Club, since its founding in 2017. Glenda is the founder and executive director of CWP. |
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Chili Cook-off another resounding success! “It was an amazing day!” says Jeff Cantwell, co-chair of the 21st annual Rotary Chili Cook-off. “Our team of volunteers went above and beyond, like a well-oiled machine. Attendees, teams, sponsors and vendors raved about the day. Many said it was the nicest event they ever attended, and I attribute that to our Rotary demeanor – embracing all who were helping our cause,” he added.“Wow –what a wonderful event we executed for our community yesterday,” added President Rich. “I had a great time with you all in Service and Fellowship,” he said, after commending the chili co-chairs and all the volunteers. “I’m not only proud of the well run event, but also the image we created for our community of Rotary International, and our club and its good works. You truly exemplified Rotary’s motto, Service Above Self.” |
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Chili Cook-off Preparations Among the many tasks surrounding the Chili Cook-off are numerous activities that engage members of the Rotary Club of West Chester in preparation for the big event.Each year, a number of members, some who can always be counted on to help, along with newer members, show up to gather supplies, and sort, bag, and assemble items that will go to each participant booth, to the information table, and wherever specific items are needed. Others load up a truck with the supplies. Members give up hours of their time on Friday and Saturday to pull this all together. While there is a lot of work involved, the work teams have lots of fun and build fellowship among themselves while doing this important work. As usual, Bill and Debi Friedman always seem to be in the middle of the activities, generously donating their time, expertise, experience, and even space at their business, Blue Dog, to assure preparations run smoothly in advance of the big day. Thanks to Suzette Webb for capturing this activity for us with her interesting photos. |
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CPC Grants Awarded Almost $30,000 in grants was awarded to 16 non-profits by the Community Philanthropic Committee (CPC) on behalf of our Rotary club. CPC committee members carefully reviewed 34 applications to choose recipients of the available funds generated by our annual fundraiser, the Chili Cook-off.Grant recipients included (front row, from left) Kera Swift-Josey, Arc of Chester County; Guillermina Rios, Chester County Community Collaborative; Glenda Brion, Community Warehouse Project; Kara Todd, Believe and Achieve; Christine Zaccarelli, Crime Victims Center of Chester County; Sandra Romeo, Domestic Violence Center of Chester County; Rich Murray, Club President; and (back row, from left): Mike Strawbridge, Bournelyf Special Camp; Tyler Changaris, Family Service of Chester County; Leslie Holt, A Child's Light; Tamara Wilson, CASA Youth; Ken Hutton, Housing Partnership of Chester County; Rev. Paul Hunt, Parish Hall Kitchen; Kathleen Sanger, Home of the Sparrow; Ryan Enns, Westside Community Center; Don Neimitz, North Star of Chester County; Bill Freidman, Chester County's Children; Rob Malone and Christine Scott, CPC Co-chairs. |
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Chili Pepper debuts at Restaurant Festival While our new tent and banner drew interested individuals to our site at the Restaurant Festival, the star of the booth was the introduction of our little foam Chili Peppers. In case you haven’t seen one yet, Anne Driscoll shows off one of the cute peppers that will be dropped from a large bag hanging over Jack’s Plaza on Gay Street at 3 p.m. on October 8th, the day of our annual, popular Chili Cook-off.Helping publicize the cook-off and our new 50/50 chili pepper drop at the Festival were Gary Hewitt, Matt Kuehn, Suzette Webb, Anne Driscoll, Sue Casso, Jeff Cantwell, and Melissa Baxter. |
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West Chester Rotary Chili Cookoff Planned for Sunday, October 8th 2023. Go to the website for more details
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Rotarians Donate School Supplies For the 11th year in a row, our West Chester club has donated school supplies to the West Chester Area School District (WCASD). Looking over the donated crayons, colored pencils, scissors, flash cards, dry erasers, composition books and many other school supplies, along with WCASD caseworkers, are Rich Murray, Rotary president, (fourth from left) and Katie Martin ((fifth from the right). This year, a $1,500 donation on behalf of our club was contributed by three key sponsors, Arthur Hall Insurance, TrustPoint, LLC, and First Resource Bank. |
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Fun at the Phillies Game A large group of West Chester Rotarians were among the 500 Rotarians in District 7450 to attend the Phillies versus Milwaukee Brewers baseball game on Tuesday. An annual event of District 7450, some Rotarians made it a family affair. The Schwabs attended with son Matt and their grandchildren, the Sammarone family was there, and Paul Woodruff brought his grandson. Among others spotted in the crowd were Doug Meis, Melissa Baxter, Corey Cahill, and Kate Diffendorf.The evening started off with a District tailgate party from 4 to 6 p.m. with hot dogs, snack bags and beverages. |
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Music and Fellowship A small but enthusiastic group of Rotarians gathered on a recent Saturday evening at Marshall Square Park to eat dinner and enjoy rock and roll music by Slingshot. Continuing her efforts to encourage West Chester Rotary Clubs to participate in joint activities, Immediate Past President Melissa Baxter was joined by Angela Brown from the Passport Club to picnic and listen to the music. An assortment of food trucks lined up along Matlack Street, but most folks brought their own picnic dinners and beverages.“It was hot,” reports Phyllis Dunn, "but we sat under the trees in the shade, and there was enough of a breeze to make it a pleasant evening,” she added. Another opportunity for fellowship among Rotarians! |
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Thank you, Melissa, Welcome Rich! Melissa Baxter turned over the club presidency to Rich Murray at a memorable presidential induction, like hundreds of Rotary clubs across the country and the world. Melissa accomplished so much in her year as our leader, notably bringing together other West Chester Rotary clubs in joint events. Apparently we did not overtax her, because she has now stepped up to join Jeff Cantwell in heading up the Chili Cook-off on October 8th! Talk about going “from the frying pan into the fire!” Fortunately she and Jeff have over 100 Rotarians and many other volunteers beside them as they venture forth, including Melissa’s supportive husband, Aaron.Continuing the excellent leadership of his predecessors, Rich commented “we have the friendliest club in the district, and I am happy to be your meeting host for the next 52 weeks!” Keeping leadership in perspective, Rich had to explain to his 5-year- old son, Logan, that he is NOT president of the United States, but only of this club at which he will use a gavel and ring a bell at each meeting. After the induction of Rich and his board members by District 7450 Governor Renee DeCoskey of the Conshohocken Plymouth Whitemarsh Rotary Club, she announced the new RI theme Create Hope in the World. “We need to become more visible in our communities and think about how we are perceived,” she said. |
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Tent & Banner Debut at Turks Head Music Festival Our club’s new tent and banner made their debut at the Turks Head Music Festival on a beautiful Sunday in June. The clever banner attracts visitors, and engages them in learning about Rotary, providing an additional, visible resource for displaying club brochures and information, and most importantly, publicizing our upcoming Chili Cook-off!Jeff Cantwell, Chili Cook-off co-chair, reports that it was a perfect day for folks to get out and about in the Borough of West Chester. “Several individuals stopped by and signed up to receive our new quarterly newsletter also.” The festival gave Jeff a chance to visit each of the other 100 or so vendors, and pass out the new handouts urging vendors to participate in the Chili Cook-off on October 8th in the borough. Debi Friedmann, spouse of a member and a member of the Passport Rotary, continues to provide some marketing support of the cook-off, (she designed the cook-off handout!). She also roamed around the festival in a chili pepper outfit to further advertise the cook-off! |
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Welcome Commissioners! President Melissa gave a Rotary welcome in front of our RI banner to two of the three Chester County Commissioners, Marian Moskowitz and Josh Maxwell. They in turn gave inspiring comments on the state of our county and work of the commissioners. Moskowitz said the skills she learned along the way as a businesswoman have been helpful in her job as commissioner. “These skills came in handy when I took office, and we were immediately faced with the challenges presented by COVID, and storm Ida. Despite those, we continued to work to move the county forward.” |
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A morning in the park What has become an annual Service Above Self project for our club is helping neighborhood volunteers with clean-up day at Marshall Square Park in West Chester. This year, the clean-up day was scheduled for Earth Day weekend. Mac Neilon again handled the details, and directed 13 Rotarians and a child to help with picking up sticks, spreading mulch, shoveling up leaves, and general clean-up between 8:30 a.m. and noon on Saturday. Thanks to all the volunteers, and to Randy Lindel and Mark Sammarone for recording the event with photos. |
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Club members attend District Conference Charles Streitwieser and Melissa Baxter represented our West Chester Club at the recent District 7450 District Conference, which Melissa described as a “relaxed format – people came and went throughout.”Charles had a chance to catch up with the keynote speaker, Drew Kessler, Past District Governor (PDG 2013-14), who is now a Rotary International Director. The 2023 Conference was themed “Imagination Action,” building on the theme of our RI International leader. About 100 Rotarians gathered at The Alloy Hotel in King of Prussia on Friday evening to kick off the annual conference. Saturday the gathering at Elmwood Park Zoo in Norristown was environmentally focused, and the Sunday gathering at Waynesborough Country Club in Paoli, featured the 4-Way Speech Contestants and guest speaker. |
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A handsome trio of helpers Rotarians help out wherever there is a need! For example, Locust Lane Brewery (LLB), a member of the Exton Region Chamber of Commerce, conducts a series of events called ”Pints With a Purpose,” in which they pick a non-profit member of the chamber to highlight each month. The chamber’s Community Philanthropic Council’s February pick was the Chester County History Center (CCHC). All month, not only do proceeds from LLB’s monthly Community Cups project go to the non-profit, there is a happy hour at the end of the month. |
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Super Bowl Fun(draiser) Winners The Philadelphia Eagles may have come up short on their bid to win the Super Bowl last weekend, but West Chester Rotarians were winners. Carol Hanson and new member Lona Pangia were among the four winners of the Super Bowl fundraiser conducted by Mac Neilon. Carol won $200 for her 2nd quarter pick, Lona won $200 for her third quarter pick, Fran Curtin (on a bucket list trip to Egypt with wife Judy) won $200 for his first quarter pick, and Rob Malone's grandmother won the fourth quarter pick and the $650 prize!Mac reports that 77 individuals participated, Rotarians, their families and friends, in this fun(draiser) for our club. The remainder of the winning funds, representing half of the betted dollars, $1,250, goes to our club's good works. Fun, fellowship and winners all around! |
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And the winners are... President Melissa Baxter and Bob Rogers tied for first place in the Rotary Barbecue Throw Down, held recently at the Boy Scout Council building in Exton. Melissa's entree was a succulent "Beat Bob Baby Back Ribs," and Bob's entrée was "Three Little Pigs," a tasty combination of pork shoulder, pork belly and bacon. Judy Curtin, past president of the Sunrise Club was runner up with her cinnamon spiced pulled pork. Other cooks/chefs from Sunrise included Bill Leber, and Laura Schofield and husband John Pierson's "Buckle Up" pulled pork (John smoked the pork for 16 hours!).Bob Rogers was the most colorful of the cooks with his red chef's hat and apron ("I like my butt rubbed and my pork pulled"). Providing delicious dishes to accompany the main entrees was Bill Friedmann's world famous "Blame It On the Dog BBQ Baked Beans," along with mac and cheese, cole slaw, and potato salads. Several other attendees brought cookies and brownies. |
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Festive Holiday Party Arriving in a holiday mood, about 75 individuals, Rotarians and their spouses, gathered for a festive holiday party at the gorgeous home of Doreen and Bill Winters. Although elegant on its own, Doreen embellished the large Victorian style home with numerous decorated trees that she started putting up in October!Through the years, Doreen and Bill have graciously hosted our club at picnics on the large, wide porch that surrounds their home. Not only is it beautiful to look out at the immaculately manicured lawn, flowers and bushes, but some partygoers would take their plates of food poolside to enjoy the weather and beauty of the rear yard. As usual, Rotarians filled the dining table with an amazing spread of delicious holiday foods. Among the most notable was the scalloped potatoes dish from the Roots Café. All partygoers were dressed in festive holiday garb. Skip Brion and Dan Dunn showed up in sweaters of the same design. Red crabs were featured on a holiday motif background, and known as “crabby Christmas” sweaters. They obviously have good taste in clothes - no ugly sweaters at this holiday party! We thank Jeff Cantwell for snapping the photos of partygoers, and Phyllis Dunn for filling us in on some details of another popular Rotary fellowship event. Hoping all had a Merry Christmas with family and friends, are looking forward to an upcoming year of service that makes a difference, improved physical and mental health, and more civil discourse. HAPPY NEW YEAR! |
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Another holiday tradition - Ringing of the bells Another longtime tradition of our Rotary club has been the ringing of the bells at the bright red pots of the Salvation Army each year. This is a major fundraiser for the SA, which does so much good in our communities year around.Katie Martin and Mac Neilon were ringing at the Amish Market when fellow Rotarian and Captain of the area Salvation Army, Jesus Coralizza, stopped by. The Amish Market is always a favorite location because before or after one's shift, it's such fun to go inside and pick up some tasty bakery goods or find other interesting items. Paul Woodruff and Phil McFadden were among the many Rotarians who helped out at the Shop Rite Market. A young girl, shopping with her mother, stopped to make a donation, aided by Paul and Phil. Lastly, a couple of Rotarians missed their shift. Did they forget to set their alarm clock? Go Christmas shopping? Rake leaves? Trim their Christmas tree? Only Bob and Allison know. Happy Holidays! |
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Tuesday Before Thanksgiving - A longstanding tradition A casual, social gathering of Rotary members on the "Tuesday Before Thanksgiving" has been a longstanding tradition of the Rotary Club of West Chester. Over two dozen club members joined in keeping the tradition alive this year.Several years ago, two sergeant at arms (Katie Martin and Mac Neilon?) started the tradition by scheduling an informal happy hour at a borough bar on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving. In addition to socializing, they presented "awards" to fellow members for the funniest, most outlandish reasons they could come up with. Although awards are no longer given out, the tradition of gathering before Thanksgiving continues. As this group of Rotarians gathered at the Side Bar and Restaurant on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving, they carried on the wonderful tradition of Rotarians gathering for fun and fellowship - thankful for each other's friendship! Thanks to President Mellissa for arranging for this photo. |
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The Christmas Parade - We were there! Members of our Rotary Club are never ones to shirk helping and participating in activities in the Borough of West Chester. And the recent Christmas parade was no exception! Jeff Cantwell was able to catch this photo of Rotarian and Bar Association director, Matt Holliday, on the Chamber of Commerce float. Jeff barely managed to get this photo because he was busy being one of the parade marshals!. Mark Sammarone was busy directing the hundreds of vehicles that were streaming into the borough hunting parking places. Mac Neilon also was very busy doing a variety of tasks to keep the parade running smoothly. Perhaps there were other Rotarians helping out that evening. The borough, chamber of commerce, and others know they can always depend on hard-working, often unseen Rotary volunteers and their families.Rotarians can always be counted on to assist our community! |
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Networking Fun Several club presidents and members of the four West Chester Rotary Clubs met recently at Timothy’s for an All West Chester Member Prospect and Networking Social. One group of Rotarians who were having fun together included (from left) our own West Chester President Melissa Baxter, Debi Friedmann, president of the Passport Club, Russ DiFuria, a past president and member of the WEGO (West Goshen) Club, Bob Eaves, president of the Sunrise Club, and (front) Judy Curtin, immediate past president of the Sunrise Club.According to Melissa, “the social gathering was an opportunity to strengthen Rotary through fellowship, networking, and fun." Guests learned about each club, and “connected with our greatest assets – our club members,” explained Melissa. “It was a chance to have fun, as well as build your personal and professional networks,” she added. |
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Non-profits report "It Takes a Village" At a recent luncheon, the club awarded $30,000 to representatives of 10 non-profit organizations chosen by the Community Philanthropic Committee (CPC) from 22 applications. Representatives pictured with Melissa Baxter, club president, seated left, are Nan Latona, Glenda Brion, Kara Todd, Sandra Romeo, and standing from left, Rob Malone, co-chair of the CPC, Kathleen Sanger, Doug Pacitti, Ryan Enns, David James, Don Neimetz, Heather Robino, and Christine Scott, co-chair of CPC. Each representative was given an opportunity to explain how their grant funds would be used. |
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Chili Cook-off returns after 2 year hiatus According to Chili King Bill Friedman, an estimated record crowd of about 10,000 people flooded the streets of West Chester Borough Sunday, October 9th, when the annual Chili Cook-off returned for its 20th year!. Lines of chili lovers formed prior to noon, and booths remained busy until the awards presentations at 3:30, although many booths had run out of chili by then.Sponsors helping Rotary host the popular event, which is 100% volunteer driven, included Stoltfus RV’s & Marine, Christ Community Church, Lorgus Flower Shop, West, Arthur Hall Insurance, Blue Dog Printing & Design, Chester County Eye Care, Greystone, A. Martinelli & Sons, A Storage Depot, WAWA, and 1st Resource Bank. Sixteen other businesses and organizations also supported the event. The first place winner in the People’s Choice Division was Parrot Troopers, who have participated for many years, and won in most divisions nearly every year. Ryan’s Pub took first place in the Restaurant Division, a first time cooking Arthur Hall Insurance won in the Business Division, Church Farm School, which has won in many categories for several years, won in the Non-profit Division, and Hammacher & Schlemmer won in the Hometown/Volunteer Division. Go to the Chili Cook-off link on our website for the complete listing of the first through third place winners in all divisions. |
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Chili Cook-off returns October 9thOne of the most popular, tasty and interesting events is coming back after a two year hiatus due to the pandemic. The annual Rotary Club of West Chester Chili Cook-off will return for its 20th year on Sunday, October 9th! Vendors will be set up by 10:30 in the morning, and chili will be dished up beginning at noon until the chili awards presentations at 3:30. Sponsors helping Rotary host the event, which is 100% volunteer driven, include Stoltfus RV’s & Marine, Christ Community Church, Lorgus Flower Shop, West, Arthur Hall Insurance, Blue Dog Printing & Design, Chester County Eye Care, Greystone, A. Martinelli & Sons, A Storage Depot, WAWA, and 1st Resource Bank. Sixteen other businesses and organizations are also supporting the event. Teams providing chili include hometown cooks and volunteers, non-profits, restaurants and businesses - 49 teams dishing out chili to date! The Saloon 151 restaurant will again participate to defend its previous “People’s Choice” title with its Outlaw Chili.
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Promoting Chili Cook-off at the Restaurant Festival Anne Driscoll and Club President Melissa Baxter were among the several Rotarians who volunteered to staff our Rotary table at the recent Restaurant Festival in the Borough of West Chester to promote our upcoming Chili Cook-off. They sold wristbands so folks don't have to stand in long lines the day of the cook-off on October 9th, handed out updated brochures, and answered questions about Rotary. Meanwhile, John Schwab was busy "planting" Chili Cook-off signs in the borough. Many Rotarians have "planted" the bright red and yellow signs outside the borough, on corners, heavily trafficked streets, in their yards, and intersections. This will be the 20th year of our cook-off, which seems to grow in popularity each year, and even attracts folks from, other states, in addition to thousands of local individuals and families. Our cook-off returns after a two year hiatus due to COVID, and is widely anticipated. If you haven't signed up to volunteer that day, it's not too late to get in on the fun! See you on Sunday, October 9th! |
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School Supplies Benefit WCASD Students For the 20th year in a row, Mac Neilon (fifth from left, next to West Chester Area School District Superintendent Bob Sokolowski) arranged for the donation of school supplies to the WCASD. Club President Melissa Baxter (sixth from right) joined Mac in delivering over $1,000 in supplies for students and families in need, from funds generated by the Rotary Club's Chili Cook-off. Caseworkers for the school district, pictured above, divide up the supplies and distribute them to economically disadvantaged students In the 17 district schools."We are so appreciative of the Rotary Club of West Chester's continued donation of school supplies," said Tricia Alston, WCASD social worker coordinator. "Their generosity goes such a long way to helping to make the start of the school year an exciting rather than stressful time for our families." |
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Here's how to find a Rotary Club John Schwab (left) and Mac Neilon recently put up the first of several new road signs to provide additional visibility for Rotary clubs, and encourage individuals to look up and find a club, and learn about Rotary. The URL will direct individuals to all four Rotary clubs in the greater West Chester area. New and replacement road signage is one of the new projects of our club's Communications Committee. There will be additional signage to follow at all road entrances to West Chester, so keep watching for them! |
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Melton Center Community Day "Promoting Rotary in sunshine and fresh air" was how Sue Casso Rogers described Sunday afternoon at the annual Melton Center Community Day event.Manning the table with Jeff Cantwell, they had a close-up view of the young men playing a lively basketball game on the court in front of them. Just four Rotarians responded to John Schwab's request for volunteers, despite Sue's "sunshine and fresh air" prompting. This is the second recent area event at which Sue has volunteered. Volunteering with her is always fun because, as club secretary and membership chair (among other things!), Sue has a wealth of information about Rotary, which is always interesting. There will be additional outdoor "sunshine and fresh air" events coming up this fall, so plan to volunteer when you hear of other opportunities to engage with the larger community, spread the word and provide information about Rotary, and enjoy fun times with fellow Rotarians. |
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New President, New Mayor! Our new club president, Melissa Baxter, had the pleasure of meeting the new Mayor of the Borough of West Chester Lillian DeBaptiste, when the mayor was our recent guest speaker.Mayor DeBaptiste is the daughter of former mayor, Clifford DeBaptiste, who at age 98, has been a member of our club for 49 years! Mayor DeBaptiste said she hadn’t really thought about running for office until about two years ago, when she felt she had something to offer, her ABCD list: Arts, Balance, Clean and Green, and Diversity. She was sworn in exactly 20 years to the day after her father was sworn in as mayor! “It’s been an amazing, you might even say 'divine' journey,” she said. ”I’ve enjoyed the job for the past eight months,” she added, explaining that she has helped open stores with ribbon cuttings, interviewed and hired four outstanding new police officers in conjunction with Police Chief Jim Moreland, and even performed the wedding of a couple she knows! |
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Rotarians award scholarships The Rotary Club of West Chester, the Greater West Chester Sunrise Rotary Club and the Rotary Passport Club of West Chester joined together in choosing and awarding three high school graduates $2,000 college scholarships each. The scholarship recipients were chosen based on essays they wrote about their volunteerism, based on the Rotary motto, “Service Above Self.” Letters of recommendation from school administrators added verification of the students’ volunteer work.Receiving scholarships from John Abitabilo (left) and Robbe Healey (right) are Reagan Peri (second from left) and Taylor Krafchick. Also receiving a scholarship was Chinonye Moneme, (center, pictured with from left) David Sweet, Nathan Keisler, Chinonye’s father, John Abitabilo, and Jim Gasho. The principal and teachers at East High School wrote that Chinonye Moneme, “is a leader in diversity awareness, and tutors other students. She participated in a food drive for Martine Luther King Day of Service. She was also an elementary school mentor, and sent cards to veterans and senior citizens. In addition, she was the school’s cross country manager, and worked on clean-up projects.” “I have learned the importance of little things each day,’” said Chinonye. She will attend Boston University in the fall, studying mechanical engineering with a focus on environmental renewable energy. |
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Thank you, Steve! Welcome, Melissa! Steve Brown, our outgoing president, received accolades for his leadership in the second half of the 2021-2022 Rotary year, our 100th anniversary, for his outstanding leadership during the (still circulating) pandemic. In addition to keeping club members engaged, Steve gave us brief looks back at our country’s history, and provided humorous moments at every club meeting to lighten the challenging times.After walking us down memory lane, he turned the gavel over to Melissa Baxter. Melissa has been busy on the board and as president-elect, and chairperson of the Community Philanthropic Committee (CPC), helping seek/review applications from non-profits vying for grants. What a challenge to select from about 30 agencies narrowing that down to about a dozen to whom we can award a total of $30,000! |
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Four club Rotary induction Over 80 individuals, Rotarians and their guests, gathered at Barnaby’s In West Chester for the “historical, phenomenal, first ever” induction of the incoming presidents of the four West Chester Rotary clubs. Members of the four clubs enjoyed socializing over the buffet dinner and beverages, meeting and supporting fellow Rotarians from other clubs, and taking part in the unique raffle.Incoming presidents inducted by recently installed District 7450 Governor David Houtz (pictured from left) were our own Melissa Baxter, The Rotary Club of West Chester, Bob Eaves, Greater West Chester Sunrise Rotary, Nipa Thakker, Westtown-Goshen Rotary Club, and Debi Friedmann, Rotary Passport Club of West Chester. Outgoing presidents were introduced and honored for their year of service to their clubs. |
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"Golfing Gasho" – His efforts benefit Rotary charities Longtime member Jim Gasho (he joined in 1986), “Played His Age,” completing 62 holes of golf on July 1st – yes, all in one day!When he was 35, Jim decided to shoot the number of holes on golf courses, equivalent to his age, on or near his birthday on June 30th. At 35, that sounded like an easy task. Now, at 62, maybe a bit more challenging? This active Rotarian, who has contributed time (president and many committees), energy (Brian's Run, Chili Cook-off, Fruit Sale, etc.) and resources (many dollars to the RI foundation, local activities and events), decided this year to invite others, Rotarians and friends, to support his endeavor and contribute dollars to the West Chester Rotary Club Foundation which supports local and international charities. |
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Wrapping it up - our 100th Anniversary! The third and final part of our 100th Anniversary celebration (1921-2021) was to place a plaque, noting the occasion, at our meeting place, the West Chester Golf and Country Club. The Country Club was willing to support our request to display a commemorative plaque at their site by planting a tree and placing the plaque in a beautiful floral setting. Participating in the dedication of the plaque at the country club were (from left) Eric Houck, WCGCC grounds superintendent, Sue Casso Rogers, one of the 100th anniversary event coordinators, Steve Brown current club president and president during the second half of 2021, and Michelle Venema, club president during the first part of 2021, and an event coordinator. The planting bed contains a small tree, and is full of colorful blooming annuals, all of which complement the plaque. This garden gem at the country club, located near the Pro Shop, is a beautiful way to acknowledge the work of our Rotary Club, and one of the many community partnerships we enjoy. Next time you attend a Thursday club meeting or play a round of golf on the course, take a few minutes to stop by the little garden and view this lovely commemoration, designed by Houck. It will brighten your day! |
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Golfing - fun and fellowship! Golfing is not just a matter of hitting a little ball around a golf course for West Chester Rotarians. It includes lots of fun and fellowship! Even though the skies were a little cloudy, 23 golfers, Rotarians and guests, enjoyed nine holes of golf at the West Chester Golf and Country Club following a recent Thursday noon club meeting. After completing their rounds, most participants returned to the clubhouse for beverages and snacks. On the deck overlooking the golf course, they shared fellowship and laughs (sometimes at each other’s expense!). Thanks to Randy Lindel, Sue Casso-Rogers and others for capturing some great photos and reporting on this event. |
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It's official!! Nsengumuremlyi Theoneste, known to us as Theo, and supported by our club for a number of years, proudly shows off the diploma he has finally received. |
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Tree planting - dual goals of West Chester Rotary When over two dozen Rotarians planted a mixture of 100 Maple and River Birch trees recently at Stroud Preserve, they accomplished two goals. The 100 trees celebrated last year’s 100th anniversary of the Rotary Club of West Chester, and it supported the mission of the Environment Committee of Rotary District 7450. “Despite the wet weather, Rotarians showed up to participate in the long-awaited anniversary celebration project, and support the district’s new environment committee,” explained Steve Brown, club president. |
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A day in the park About a dozen Rotarians, friends, spouses, children, and a few West Chester Passport Club Rotarians, joined membered of the West Chester club on Saturday for a day in Marshall Square Park. They raked, cleaned up and mulched the trees and bushes together. The day was part of West Chester Borough's "Clean Up West Chester Day". The West Chester club has been volunteering at Marshall Square Park for many years, under the capable organizing and leadership skills of Mac Neilon. Thanks to Randy Lindel for capturing the group just as they were beginning their work. A special treat on this year's day of fun and fellowship, along with their work, the group was rewarded with cookies from The Hickman! |
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Neither rain nor ice or snow... Despite rain, sleet/ice and snow, more than a dozen loyal Rotarian volunteers showed up during the early morning Saturday at the A. Duie Pyle warehouse to load fruit into cars of purchasers of the delicious fruits and vegetables sold during Rotary’s annual fruit sale. Our chair for over 10 years (!), Christine Wildauer (center with the red scarf), reports that among the volunteers was Kate Cipriano and a few other members of the Greystone PTO, who will benefit from over $5,000 raised during the sale toward purchase of playground equipment at the new Greystone Elementary School. As usual, numerous boxes of fruits and vegetables were also donated to the West Chester Food Cupboard. Of interest to longtime members, and our historians, Christine reports that a few years ago, the late Bob Poole presented her with a complete history of the fruit sale from its very beginning. |
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Meanwhile - at the Community Warehouse While West Chester Rotarians and the West Chester University Friars service club have service projects going on often, you can ALWAYS find Rotarian Jeannie McGinn (5th from right) and Warehouse Director Glenda Brion (5th from left) at the Community Warehouse Project site the third Saturday of every month! On a recent Saturday, they were joined by Rotarian Mac Neilon (far let), along with nearly a dozen members of the Friars. The third Saturday is always busy with generous supporters dropping off donations, needy families and individuals picking up items, and a diverse group of volunteers helping Glenda and Jeannie in multiple ways. |
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Rotary Fruit Sale Benefits Children Helping spread the word about the annual fruit sale are (from left) President Steve Brown, Greystone PTO Members, Marissa Cook and Kate Cipriano, Melissa Baxter, CPC chair, Kristen Buckler, Greystone PTO, and Christine Wildauer, serving again as fruit sale chair. Proceeds from the Annual Fruit Sale by the Rotary Club of West Chester will benefit hundreds of children for many years. At its Community Philanthropic Committee meeting, members unanimously selected the Greystone Elementary PTO from among nearly a dozen applicants as beneficiaries of this year’s fruit sale. |
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Bell Ringing - Service Above Self Sue and Bob Rogers, along with 14 other Rotarians, rang bells for the Salvation Army at the Amish Market from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. Debi Friedmann and Rachel Barakat, were among the 17 Rotarians who rang bells at Shop Rite from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The annual bell ringing is the Salvation Army's (SA) biggest fundraiser for the year. Our club has been helping the SA for more than two decades, raising local funds that stay locally, supporting the SA's programs such as toys for tots , so hundreds of kids have a good holiday. In addition, the SA serves hot meals daily, has a food pantry, and offers programs like rental assistance , job training and placement, disaster services, and more. Our club members have given generously of their time and their own donations to this worthy, local charity. In addition, we are happy to have Capt. Jesus Coralizza among our membership! Thanks to all Rotarians who stepped up to help out! |
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It's Official! We're 100 Years old! West Chester Rotarians, their families and community leaders, gathered at the Penn Oaks Golf and Country Club last week to celebrate the Rotary Club’s 100th anniversary. Participating in the presentation were (from left) Sue Casso Rogers, a past club president and gala co-organizer, Michelle Venema, immediate past president and gala co-organizer, Steve Brown, current club president, Valarie Wafer of Canada, RI vice president, Jeff Cadorette of Media, RI Communications Committee, Yvette Houston, president of the Chester Rotary Club, who sponsored our club in 1921, and Jordan Norley, mayor of the Borough of West Chester. |
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Rotary Helps Light Up West Chester Members of The Rotary Club of West Chester, which is sponsoring two of the79 gaily decorated lamp posts in the Borough of West Chester, recently gathered around one of the brightly lighted lamp posts. A holiday project of the Chamber of Commerce of Greater West Chester to light up the borough, the lamp posts are part of Penn Medicine Chester County Hospital's Lights Up Holiday Weekends. The hospital's sponsorship will bathe the borough streets with the glow of holiday lights. Spanning five weekends, each with a specific theme, all will include holiday singers and music, stores for shopping, and restaurants for dining, as visitors stroll the historic streets. In addition to the glowing lights, visitors will delight in seeing gingerbread houses and decorated windows, competing for awards, to further enhance the charm of the borough. To see a listing of all events, go to the Chamber's website. Thanks to Randy Lindell for providing this photo. |
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Traditional Holiday Gathering Over 25 club members recently restored a popular club event, the traditional gathering on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving at the Side Bar in the Borough of West Chester. Cancelled last year due to the pandemic, the annual event was originally started several years ago by the sargent-at-arms to kick off the holidays. This fun gathering precedes a special Rotary event this year, the 100th Anniversary Gala, scheduled for December 9th at Penn Oaks Country Club, where over 250 folks are expected to celebrate our 100 years of Service Above Self. The only question we have about the Side Bar gathering- where were the fun awards and ugly sweaters that had become part of the Side Bar tradition? |
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Ready to Rappel! Rotarians take the plunge to benefit students “What an amazing experience!” commented Melissa Baxter when she landed on the ground, one of 110 individuals who rappelled down the 29 story Commerce Two building in Philadelphia recently to raise funds to benefit the Outward Bound program. Along with three other West Chester area Rotarians, (from left) Bill Ronayne, Dan Dunn, Baxter and Dennis Wallace, Baxter was among the dozen or so Rotarians in District 7450 who rappelled. Over $22,000 was raised by “Team Rotary” from West Chester, whose funds were donated to the Outward Bound program for middle and senior high girls in the West Chester Area School District. The donations will go toward teaching leadership and self-esteem. Baxter and Ronayne are members of The Rotary Club of West Chester, Dunn and Wallace are members of the Sunrise Rotary Club. This was the fourth time that Ronayne has participated in the Outward Bound rappelling event. |
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Raise a pint – End Polio Now! Jeff Spencer, President Steve Brown, and (former club member) Bryan Brockson raised a pint of “Purple Pinkie Pale Ale” at the club’s recent Pulled Pork Throwdown at the new Boy Scout center in Exton. Brockson, one of three owners of Locust Lane Craft Brewery in Malvern, invited attendees at the Rotary event to taste the new brew, an initiative between Rotary District 7450 and the brewery as a fund raiser for Rotary’s End Polio Now. Each can had an explanation of Rotary’s polio mission, ”help eradicate polio from the planet. Throughout the world each time a Rotary volunteer administers a polio vaccine, a child's pinkie is colored purple with the topical solution Gentian Violet, temporarily marking them to prevent double dosage on National Immunization Days (NID). Lean more by scanning the QR code below.” Bryan said the brew was developed to see if it made sense to do it, and perhaps do it again next year. Having raised $2,000 between pre-sales and at happy hours throughout the district, Bryan believes it will be worth doing again next year. By the way, the beer has already sold out; look for it again next year! Thanks to Ebbie Alfree for capturing this photo. |
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And the winner is… Bob “Smoker King” Rogers was chosen by the crowd of Rotarians and their guests as the winner at the club’s annual Pulled Pork Throwdown. His “Double Pork Delight” was chosen by the 40 plus attendees over the frequent previous winner, Melissa Baxter (left), and the team of Christine Wildauer and Mickey Hall, who took second place with their “Texas Pulled Pork.” Bob’s succulent dish featured a combination of pork butt and pork belly, marinated, injected and dry rubbed for 6 days before going into the smoker for over 15 hours. His “Sue chef” handled the clean-up for Bob, who we know as an adventurous, good cook as experienced by those of us lucky enough to have enjoyed dinner at the Rogers through the years. Do we have a James Beard awardee in our midst? |
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Rotary Donates $30,000 to Non-profits Melissa Baxter, (seated left), chairperson of the Community Philanthropic Committee , joins representatives of the non-profit organizations who received grants from the club, (seated second from left) Hallie Romanowski, Christine Zaccarelli, Glenda Brion, Kim Booz, and (standing from left) Dallas Knowlton, Ellen Donohoe, Rita Brouwer-Ancher, Emily McClure, Dr. Dolly Wideman-Scott, Don Neimetz, Meghan Ervine, Natalie Coughlin, Tyler Changaris, Loretta Cohen, and Steve Brown, club president. |
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Rotary Donates School Supplies Looking over the donated crayons, colored pencils, scissors, flash cards, dry erasers, composition books and many other school supplies delivered to the West Chester Area School District (WCASD) on behalf of the Rotary Club of West Chester are (from left) Veronica Ortiz, Margaret Nawn, Colette McLaughlin, Katelyn Phillips, caseworkers, Ann Ranari, WCASD Director of Pupil Services, Patricia Alston, Social Work Coordinator, Steve Brown Rotary President, Mac Neilon, and Anton Burrell.For the ninth year in a row, Neilon, Rotarian and owner of Penn Office Products, and Alston, have coordinated the donation, with this year’s supplies totaling $1,800. Alston provides the list of most needed items by students from economically disadvantaged families as reported by WCASD caseworkers, and shares the list with Neilon. |
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Rotary Supports Fame Fire Company Danielle Mortimer and Bill Ronayne point out the designation of our Rotary Club in the Lieutenant Category ($10,000 - $24,999 donations) onFame Fire Company #3 of West Chester’s donor recognition board at the community-wide reception on Saturday. The Willing Hearts Campaign Donor Contributions Recognition Board was part of our Rotary Club’s donation to Fame. Bill, a longtime fireman, and active Rotarian in our club, co-chaired the $2.5 million capital campaign of the 183-year-old company, and emceed the community ceremony, and reception that attracted over 100 supporters and community leaders! |
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Rotary Club (Still) Doing Good! In addition to the critical work being done by Rotarians worldwide, our Rotary Club here in West Chester, specifically our International Service Committee (ISC), continues its important work. We recently became aware that the COVID Respirators, which we funded with our sister Tigre Rotary Club near Buenos Aires, Argentina, ended up being donated by the manufacturer! So the funds were used to buy an Oxygen Concentrator (pictured), which is needed to feed the COVID oxygen hoods. The concentrator was donated to the community hospital’s Intensive Care Unit that allows treating patients with dyspnea quickly and efficiently.“This is one of the most frequent problems in the COVID pandemic, avoiding unnecessary hospitalization by the hospital Care Team,” according to the International Service Director of the Tigre Club. “It is also used in other respiratory syndromes. Thanks to every one of you for choosing to make a difference and to save lives,” he added. And thank you to Ernest Zlotolow for keeping us informed of the important and ongoing work of our ISC! |
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Rotarians gather at Minglefest Several club presidents and organizers caught up with each other at the recent Minglefest event held at Timothy's in West Chester, including Steve Brown, (from left) president of the Rotary Club of West Chester, Judy Curtin, president of the Sunrise Club, Gary Pawliczek of Kennett Light, Debi Friedmann, president of West Chester Passport Club, and Alyssa Harnish from the WEGO Club. A new event for the district, Pawliczek, Membership Chairman of District 7450, teamed up with Friedmann to host the event, which attracted over 50 Rotarians from West Chester, West Chester Passport, Sunrise, WEGO, Longwood, Kennett Light clubs, and even a Rotarian from Newark , De! Harnish, Assistant District Governor, stopped by to lend her support. |
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Thank you, Michelle! Welcome, Steve! Michelle Venema, our Rotary Club president during a challenging 2020-2021 year, received a standing ovation for her amazing leadership as she presided at her first – and last – in-person meeting of her presidency. And, Steve Brown was warmly welcomed as our incoming club president. |
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Mulching at Marshall Square Park About a dozen Rotarians signed up to help residents around Marshal Square Park with mulching and spreading this summer, according to Mac Neilon, coordinator of community volunteer projects for our club. However, on Saturday morning, almost double that number showed up, when Rotarians brought their children and spouses to help with the project. Mac reports that this has become an annual volunteer event for our club, as each year, the park committee contacts him to enlist volunteers from our Rotary club to help at the park. Along with the volunteers from the neighborhood, the work was completed in record time. |
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Fruit Sale Distribution On a cold and blustery Saturday in March, a stalwart team of Rotarians, under the leadership of our dedicated fruit sale chair, Christine Wildauer (top, center) braved the weather to distribute the fruit purchased during the annual Rotary fruit sale. Bundled up and properly masked, Rotarians handed out the fruit boxes, aided by Bill Friedmann (front, right). Among those picking up fruit was Ernest Zlotolow (front, center). If you look closely enough, you can recognize other Rotarians behind their masks. The fruit sale this year benefitted The Barn at Springbrook Farm, which provides programs and camps for children year around. Approximately $5,500 was raised through the sale, down from the usual funds raised, but good, given the virus and its regulations. Our thanks to Christine for containing to chair this committee year after year.
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Arbor Square Social A small, but fun-loving group of Rotarians gathered in The Pub at Arbor Square (senior living community) for one of the monthly club socials, planned by Phyllis Dunn and her committee. Among those attending were President Michelle Venema, Doug Meis, Phyllis's husband, Dan, Randy Lyndell, Phyllis and Catherine Friedman. The Pub, located on the second floor, was adjacent to a lovely outside deck that enabled guests to watch the planes landing and taking off from the nearby airport. In addition to the adult beverages, tasty appetizers were served, including the most delicious crab cakes Randy said he has ever tasted! |
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In Person Meetings are BACK!June 24th, 2021 - We will be returning to in-person meetings. 12:00 noon, West Chester Golf and Country Club Lunch Buffet will be served, $15.00 per person Mask Update - Indoors: Masks are not required for non-serving staff, WCGCC members and guests who are vaccinated. Masks must still be worn by unvaccinated staff, members and guests when not seated.
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Rotary Global Grant – West Chester Rotary will provide clean water to African communities  Dwight Leeper, West Chester resident, and member of the Rotary Club of West Chester, and Sam Lowry, of the Downtown Rotary Club of Huntsville, Alabama, wrote a proposal to The Rotary International Foundation requesting a Global Grant to provide Deep-Water Hand Pumps to improve the health and quality of life in five, small, rural communities in Senegal, West Africa. In January 2021, the West Chester club was awarded a $131,215 Global Grant for the project.The ultra-deep pumps (LifePump) are capable of operating more efficiently than hand pumps currently in use in Africa, going three times deeper, with a projected life span of 30 years. Pumps currently in operation don’t reach potable water, resulting in villagers’ drinking water from dirty runoff, mud puddles, and ponds that livestock wade through. Consequently, people face chronic illnesses that prevent children from attending school, adults from working, and perpetuate the cycle of poverty. |
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The Rotary Club of West Chester Fruit Sale! |
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Annual Ringing of the Bells Among the many Rotary volunteers who rang bells on Saturday for the Salvation Army were Michelle Venema and Joanne Tadeo. Rotarian teams were at the Amish Market from 10am until dark. This is a popular location because it enabled bell ringers to go inside the market before or after their shift and shop the many goodies in the market. After they finished their shift and turned the bells over to Michelle and Joanne, Mac Neilon and Katie Martin headed into the market. By the way, in case you didn't recognize our president, Michelle gave us a quick peek.
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Meet Peter Ash Recent luncheon guest, Peter Ash (right), was greeted by members of the CORS Committee of the Rotary Club of West Chester (from left) Carol Hanson, Katie Martin, Glen Sweet, Club President Bill Friedmann, Ernest Zlotolow and Cristina Combee. Ash, founder and CEO of Under the Same Sun (UTSS), has been working towards supporting the human rights of children with albinism. Ash, a former pastor and successful businessman from Vancouver, Canada, who himself suffers from albinism, is legally blind and has white hair. In his talk, "Transformation from Tragedy: The Story of Children with Albinism in Tanzania and Africa," Ash told of the progress of UTSS during the past 10 years of his work. The safe compound he built and runs in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania's largest city, is to see that children with albinism are protected, housed, educated and cared for. "The two main goals of UTSS are advocacy and education," he said. |
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And the Winner is.... One of our newest members and the lone female competitor, Melissa "Missy Que" Baxter, (fourth from left) was voted the winner of the Pulled Pork Showdown last week at the lovely home and yard of Deb Sparre. Pictured with President Mickey Hall, Melissa beat out fellow competitors in her first pulled pork competition, with (from left) Joe "Joey Baga Donuts" Fratoni, who did secure second place, President Mickey, Bill "Dr. Squealgood" Friedmann, Melissa, Brad "The Big Pig" Able, who came in third, Jim "The Meat Master" Magee, and Sue Casso Rogers, standing in for Bob "Hunk-A-Hunk of Burning Rub" "Rogers. Delicious side dishes and water Ice topped off the tasty meat offerings. The annual event, instigated by Jim Magee, benefits project Healing Waters, whose members gave fly fishing demonstrations after lunch, showing innovative devices to assist people with disabilities. Over $1,100 was donated to Project Healing Waters.
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Two Students Honored at Rotary Two students were recently honored by the Rotary Club of West Chester. Pictured with the students are (from left) Rotarian and Superintendent of the West Chester Area School District, Dr. James Scanlon, Elizabeth Boulanger, Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) participant, Sarah Blossom, 2018 Rotary Community and Volunteerism Scholarship awardee, Linda Hicks, chair of the Scholarship Committee, and Deborah Sahijwani, committee member. Sarah received a $2,000 scholarship for her essay on community service and volunteerism. A senior at Rustin High School she began volunteering when her mother started a non-profit organization to help women and children in Malawi, Africa, setting her on her own path of helping others. She is co-president of the Rustin Interact Club, made pillowcases for a hospital, packed food for Safe Harbor, and helped at LaMancha Animal Rescue. She is in the Help the Homeless Club, and entertained children at DuPont Children's Hospital and residents at Barclay Friends. She helps with the West Chester Area Refugee Resettlement project, and tutors children in the summer. She says of her volunteering, "I have become more compassionate, more understanding, and more motivated to make a positive change in the world.'' Elizabeth, a junior at East High School participated in the three-day RYLA program. She met students she would not otherwise have met, and participated in the Rise Against Hunger project for underprivileged individuals. |
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Literacy Initiative At a recent club meeting, Rotarians not only learned about the West Chester University Literacy Initiative, they participated in the project. Rob Malone (from left) Holly Brady and April Suda from WCU, and Club President Bob Rogers, show the bags of bottle caps used in the project. April explained that the service project involves numbering and lettering clean, white bottle caps that teachers and potential teachers use in school classrooms.
After explaining the project, bags of bottle caps were distributed to each luncheon table, and Rotarians printed numbers and letters on the caps, according to the provided information sheets. Each table completed the service project, with a minimum of confusion, while club business was being conducted. After completing the project, Rob commented on the excellent relationship between WCU students and Rotary that has existed through the years through service projects and events. |
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Rotary Readers Recognized Christine McCawley (left), chair of the Rotary Readers Committee, recently acknowledged this past year's readers at local elementary schools, including (second from left) Joe Panaro, Phyllis Dunn, Bob Poole, Catherine Friedman, David Wood, Christine Wildauer, Bill Ronayne, Jen Fiorillo, Dwight McCawley, Faith Woodward, Jack Wintermute and Glenn Jensen. Christine read the names of a number of other readers, who were not at the meeting.
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2016 Rotary Annual Fruit Sale Campaign Fruit sale co-chairs (left) Mickey Hall and (right) Christine Wildauer, look over the new offerings for the Rotary Club of West Chester's annual fruit sale with Domenic Lanciano, of Pee Jay's Fresh Fruit. This year's fruit sale will benefit Fame Fire Company, which is conducting a capital campaign to build an addition to its firehouse to store firefighting and rescue equipment and gear. The sale kicked off at a recent Rotary Club meeting and will end February 21st. Fruit pick-up is scheduled for Saturday, March 5th.
New fruit offerings will be available this year, due to the blight that damaged the Florida Temple Orange crop. Included this year will be a variety of combinations of navel oranges, red grapefruit, apples and pears. You can also purchase fruit and donate the fruit to the West Chester Food Cupboard or West Chester Senior Center - indicate when you select Seller
We appreciate your consideration and support of our Annual Fruit Sale. You can purchase your fresh and delicious fruit on line or by contacting a West Chester Rotarian. Click Here to order The fruit is scheduled for pick up on Saturday, March 5th from 8:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m at A. Duie Pyle, Lincoln & Garfield Ave, West Chester Deadline for orders online is February 21, 2016
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2015 Stockings for Soldiers The 2015 drive for Stockings for Soldiers was extremely successful with record breaking amounts of donations. Linda Hicks & her friend sewed 165 stockings. People donated a total of $155. The physical donations completely filled a truck with an 8 foot bed.
It's hard to tell the monetary worth of the physical donations but it was significant. Member Gary Hess scored a donation of $3,000 worth of beef jerky. Thanks to Tamara Minnick and Brad Able for once again chairing this cause. |
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Paul Harris Fellows Honored Several Rotarians were honored as Paul Harris Fellows for their generous contributions to Rotary International. Among the new Paul Harris Fellows were others who have donated several times and have achieved higher levels of recognition. Among those recognized recently are (seated from left) Rabbi Sue Greenberg, Chris McCawley, Michelle Venema, Dick Yoder, and (standing from left) Joe Fratoni, Joe Panaro, Bruce Beadle, Bill Winters and Bert Volger. The Rotarians were recognized following an informative presentation by Bruce Beadle, and the introduction of some new donor plans about the Rotary Foundation by Phyllis Dunn and Steve Founds, RI Foundation co-chairs for the club. |
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Chili Cookoff Charity Recipients The Rotary Club of West Chester presented $32,000 in grants to 11 charities at a recent club meeting. Organizations and their representatives included (seated from left) Catherine Friedman, Friends Association; Joanne Tadeo, Community Philanthropic Committee (CPC) co-chair; Nancy Zion, Chester Co. Children's Inc.; Glen Sweet, Housing Partnership of Chester Co.; Denise Mahal, Community Volunteers in Medicine CVIM); Phyllis Dunn, West Chester Food Cupboard, Sue Flynn, Chester Co., Family Academy; and (standing from
left) Dana Bowman, CVIM; Dolly Wideman-Scott, Domestic Violence Center of Chester Co.; Joyce Lacy, Interfaith Housing Assistance Corp.; Victoria Dow, West Chester Public Library; Alain Oliver, Maternal & Child Health Consortium; Linda Coleman, Arc of Chester Co.; Laurie Kerkering, Chester Co.
Children's Inc.; Kathy Potts, Chester Co. Family Academy; Shauna Yeldell, co-chair, CPC
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Thanks to all Chili Cookoff Volunteers Many thanks to the West Chester Rotarians and guest volunteers who helped make this year a 'pepper hot' success.
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Rotarians Fellowship & Fun Raising Rotarians brought their friends and families to Iron Hill Brewery, Sept. 17th, for delicious food and drink, to raise funds for Rotary, and most of all, to have fun.
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Tomorrow - 9/17 Give 20% at Iron Hill Brewery, West Chester Borough Mark your calendars for Thursday September 17th Rotary night at Iron Hill Brewery. 20% of the proceeds for people who come in with the coupon will be given back to the West Chester Rotary. You do need to have the coupon when you arrive. Reservations are strongly suggested. This can be used for lunch and dinner.
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2015 Honorary Rotarian Nicole Wiley (second from right) was recently named the Rotary Club of West Chester's Honorary Rotarian for 2015. Pictured with her are (from left) Immediate Past Club President Rob Feenan, Shauna Yeldell, chair of the Honorary Rotarian Committee, and Joe Panaro, committee member. Nicole and her young daughter were selected for the award for their collection of food for hungry individuals. Nicole's daughter saw a program about hungry people and wanted to collect food for them, and set a goal of 20.000 pounds. To date, the pair have collected and donated over 16,300 pounds of food throughout the county and surrounding areas to individuals, food cupboards, shelters and other locations. |
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Join West Chester Rotary June 2nd Give 20% Day Give 20% - On Tuesday June 2nd, Iron Hill Brewery in West Chester will donate 20% of your dining bill to the West Chester Rotary. All proceeds will go to the Rotary International PolioPlus campaign to eradicate Polio.
Reservations are strongly suggested - 610 738-9600. Please note, you must have your coupon when you arrive - Coupons cannot be distributed on the premises. |
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Chili Cook-off to heat up boroughBy JEREMY GERRARD jgerrard@dailylocal.com Thursday, October 11,2012 
Daily Local News file photo
Competition in the borough will heat up this weekend as more than 70 teams are prepared to compete for the title of the area’s best chili at the 10th annual West Chester Rotary Chili Cook-Off. “It’s a huge milestone in the sense of acceptance in the community and the borough and allowing us to use their streets,” said Dan Cosgrove, chairman of the Chili Cook-Off Committee and member of the Rotary Club. “But it’s also a milestone that we have made it in the sense that we have been able to generate enough funds to donate enough money back to the community.” The event is hosted by the Rotary Club, and proceeds from the event will go directly into programs supported by the Rotary Club and local charities.
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DISTRICT GOVERNOR WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS On his recent visit, new District Governor Dave Ellis (left), visits with new members, Terri Ritchie and Matt Biffen, who he inducted into membership earlier in the meeting. On his first visit to the West Chester Club, Ellis challenged members to keep up their successful recruitment of new and young members, and challenged the club to begin work on a strategic plan. |
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Henderson HS Interact @ Parents' Open House |
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GO RAMS AND ROTARY!
On a recent fall Saturday, a small, but enthusiastic group of Rotarians, family members and friends attended a West Chester football game, arranged by Mell Josephs, to cheer on the WCU Rams. Among those was (front) Jerry Schauer (back, from left) Mark Sammarone, Wendy Hoffman, Chelsea Sammarone, Mell Josephs and Tracy Sammarone. Others cheering on the Rams at Rotary Day at WCU, were Rotary President Jeannie McGinn, Dwight Leeper, Judi and Tim Bell. The Rotarians must have done a great job of cheering because the Rams won the game. Who could ask for a more enjoyable Rotary activity - and the reasonable price even included hot dogs!
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Chili at the Restaurant Festival
THE CHILI COOKOFF IS COMING!
Phyllis Dunn (from left), Sue Casso Rogers and Bruce Beadle, among other Rotarians, were at the Restaurant Festival this weekend to promote the upcoming Chili Cook-off. While Phyllis was handing out flyers, Sue was answering questions and selling wristbands and tee shirts. A couple of longtime supporters stopped by, disappointed they will be out of town this year, but bought a tee shirt and promised to return next year. Now that's loyalty!
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2012 Mayfest The Rotary Club of West Chester will support the Chester County Hospital by staffing the chicken fingers and fries booth on Saturday, May 19th. Click Here for more information about the event. Click Here to view the work schedule. Click Here to view cooking instructions. Click Here to view a map of the event grounds. |
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CPC Grant Applications Due May 15, 2012 |
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Notice: Proposed amendment to The Rotary Club of West Chester bylaws
As announced at our regular meeting on March 15, 2012, the Board of Directors proposes to amend the bylaws to include a New Generations Standing Committee reflective of the Club's strong focus on students and youth.
The proposed amendment
Article 16 of the bylaws specifies the method of amendment as follows: "These bylaws may be amended at any regular meeting, a quorum being present, by a two-thirds vote of all members present, provided that notice of such proposed amendment shall have been provided to each member by E-mail or meeting announcement at least ten (10) days before such meeting. No amendment or addition to these bylaws can be made which is not in harmony with the standard Rotary club constitution and with the constitution and bylaws of RI."A vote on the proposed change will take place at the regular meeting on April 5th. Please direct any questions or concerns to President@WestChesterRotary.us prior to the April 5th meeting. |
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Rotary Work Project Takes Shape
When: Saturday morning April 28th.
Where: Hoopes Park just off Ashbridge St (a few blocks down from the WC Country Club) What: We will need lots of hands to paint and do some general clean up at the park. There are three buildings we plan on painting and removing old nails and staples. We'll also pressure wash the picnic tables. What Else: At the conclusion of the event we will have a barbeque for all the volunteers...and yes this will be one of those fun events you don't want to miss! This event will be a joint project between the Brighter Futures Committee, Fitness Committee, and Fellowship Committee. Having big numbers help that morning will be critical! We may also involve our Interact clubs.     
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Honorary Rotarian NominationsThe Honorary Rotarian Committee is accepting nominations for this year’s Honorary Rotarian. A link to the Nomination Form is included in the "Download" section of this page. Nominations should be submitted to Cristina McCawley by April 15, 2012.
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2012 Scholarship InformationTo all May/June 2012 graduating seniors who live within the boundaries of the West Chester Area School District who excel in community service and volunteerism, please consider applying for the Rotary Club of West Chester Excellence in Community Service & Volunteerism Scholarship. The guidelines and requirements are located on the Application available in the Download Section of this website. Applications must be postmarked no later than March 30th 2012. |
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Fruit Sale benefits The West Chester Food Cupboard
Warren Callaway (from left) and Christine Wildauer, co-chairs of the "Taste of Florida Fruit Sale" learn about the process of food distribution from Fiona Allison at the West Chester Food Cupboard, while Charles Strietweiser looks on. The co-chairs and some members of the Community Philanthropic Committee visited the food cupboard, which will be recipient of fruit sale proceeds this year. The annual event kicked off Thursday, January 19th. To heighten participation, club members have been divided into two teams: the "flour" team (headed up by Warren) and the "flower" team (headed up by Christine). The competition is already heating up. SELL FRUIT!!
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Proposed slate of Officers and Directors at Large for fiscal 2012-2013
The nominating committee recommends the following members to serve on the 2012 – 2013 Rotary Club of West Chester Board
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NOTICE: Vote on proposed amendments to District 7450 bylaws
When our district incorporated in 2010 The Rotary Club of West Chester adopted the Rotary International District 7450, Inc. Bylaws as our district’s guidance document. At its July 12, 2011 meeting, the District Board of Directors approved several amendments to the bylaws to recommend to our clubs for their approval. The bylaws require that 2/3 of our clubs approve an amendment to effect the proposed change to the bylaws.
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The Biggest Mover ChallengeThe Biggest Mover challenge is underway. I hope you each are able to get at least 150 minutes of good exercise each week. Please send weekly reports to me with a copy to your team captain. Nine teams have been formed, with a captain and seven additional members each. The captain's responsibilities include encouraging team members in their efforts and assisting as necessary with collecting weekly scoring sheets/exercise logs. Points will be awarded to members who get 150 minutes of good exercise in a week, with bonus points for extra blocks of 50 minutes, and for successfully completing occasional bonus challenges. The bonus for week one was three points for those who volunteered at the Chili Cookoff. The challenge will run for three months, concluding February 3, 2012, with a one week break between Christmas and New Years. Team scores will be calculated and posted weekly. Individual summaries for each week need to be submitted by the following Tuesday to be included in team scores and available for our weekly Rotary luncheon. |
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In MemoriumDear WC Rotarians, I am sorry to report the passing of Rita Filano. There is more detail below about the funeral and arrangements. We try to support members of our Rotary family at these difficult moments, so if you are able to attend the funeral please do so and sit together if possible. Please keep the family in your prayers. |
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District 7450 Conference
Click Here to see the Conference Agenda. |
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THANKS DAVE, WELCOME BILL!
Incoming president Bill Ronayne (left) presented a past president's pin and plaque to outgoing president, Dave Rayburn, at the West Chester club's President's Gala.
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Honorary Rotarian For 2010
Mary Lou Enochs (left) is presented a plaque by Chris McCawley, chair of the Honorary Rotarian Committee, in honor of Mary Lou's being named Honorary Rotarian
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Rotarians of the Year
Katie Decker and Mac Neilon congratulate each other after President Dave Rayburn named these two Sgt. Of Arms committee members as our club's Rotarians of the Year.
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Heartfelt Thanks
Rotarian and Salvation Army Major Gerald Morgan expressed his heartfelt appreciation to fellow Rotarians for their immediate response with a $1,500 donation when the Salvation Army's walk-in freezer recently went out.
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Rotarians Serving our Community
West Chester Rotarians volunteered Dec. 13th at the West Goshen ACME and Kmart locations from 9am - 6pm, taking one hour shifts ringing the bells.Shown here, Phyllis Dunn (from left) and Terri Ritchie, along with Terri's dog, manned the Salvation Army bucket at ACME. Iliana Tati, Bell Ringer Co-chair, stopped by to see how things were going.
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100+ gallons Soup Donation for Safe Harbor
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International Committee Update
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Brandywine River Cleanup Nov. 2014
A small but hearty group of Rotarians and family members trolled the Brandywine in the annual Rotary River Rubbish Run and gathered considerable rubbish for their efforts. Those participating included (front row, from left) Dwight Leeper, Christine Wildauer's sister, Glen Sweet, Christine, Tracy Sammarone, and ( back row, from left) Christine's niece and her husband, Wendy Leeper and Mark Sammarone.
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Stockings for Soldiers
Linda Hicks and her friend, Karen Marson (right) show samples of the over 225 stockings they sewed this year for the Stockings for Soldiers project that the Rotary Club supports. Tamara Minnick and Brad Abel put holiday wrapped boxes in various locations throughout the community to collect items to go in the stockings. They collected hundreds of pounds of items.
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Chili Cookoff - 2014 Donations
Representatives from the most recent group of area charities to receive checks, amounting to over $32,000 from proceeds of the Chili Cook Off, pictured with Joanne Tadeo (left) and Shauna Yeldell (right) of the Community Philanthropic Committee (CPC) that selects the charities, are (second from left) Sue Flynn, Chester County Family Academy, Nancy Zion, Chester County Children's Inc., Terry Moody, Domestic Violence Center, Richard Roberts III, Young Men in Charge, Kathy Sullivan, West Chester Area Senior Center, Jack Luke, Friends Association, Joyce Lacy, Interfaith Housing Assistance Corp. ,Victoria Dow, West Chester Public Library, Gene Simi, Timothy School, Michelle Legaspi Sanchez, Maternal & Child Health Consortium, Heather Palmer, Acting Antics, Jane Dorchester, Chester County Historical Society, and Catherine Binz, Arc of Chester County. |
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2014 Chili Cookoff Success
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Chili Cookoff - all net proceeds go to West Chester Charities
Rob Feenan, club president, presented certificates of appreciation to the charities who benefit from the chili cook off. |
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School Supplies for WCASD Students
Over $3,500 in school supplies for needy students in the West Chester Area School District were provided by a $2,000 donation from the Rotary Club of West Chester. Looking at some of the 1,500 items are WCASD case workers, other staff and Rotarians, (from left, back) Suzanne Simmons, Anton Burrell from Penn Office Products, Rotarians Bob Rogers, Club President Rob Feenan, and Dr. Jim Scanlon, WCASD Superintendent, case workers Beata Starr and Shayna Young, and (from left, front) Mac Neilon of Penn Office Products, the Rotarian who gathered the supplies, case workers, Tricia Alston, Fran Laughlin, Maggie Nawn, Sara Missett, Director of Elementary Education, and case workers Wilma Santos and Vicki Rice. Needy students were identified by the case workers.
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Rotary Pancake Fundraiser "A Tasty Success"
President Rob Feenan joined (from left) Alex of the Friars' Society of West Chester University and Matt Holliday, one of the organizers of this event, to what has become an annual event, the Pancake Breakfast at Applebee's to raise funds for the Scholarship Endowment Fund. Over 70 folks attended and breakfast and raised $800 for the endowment fund. The Friar's And Abbie's Societies were the friendly servers. |
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New Paul Harris Fellows
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President Feenan Welcomes Newest Members
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Special Rotary Song by Chester County Family Academy
Mrs. Reiss's Class from Chester County Family Academy (December 2013) |
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2013 Chili Grantees Elizabeth Guman (far left), chair of the Community Philanthropic Committee(CPC) of the Rotary Club of West Chester, and John Schwab (far right), club president, introduced representatives of the 14 Chester County charitable agencies who received Rotary grants in 2013. They include (second from left) Jeani Purcell, Meals on Wheels, Mary Galligan, Chester County Historical Society, Catherine Friedman, Friends Association for Care and Protection of Children, Joyce Lacy, Interfaith Housing Assistance Corporation, Michelle McGowan, Home of the Sparrow, Monique Howard, Maternal Child Health Consortium, Betsy Billie, West Chester Area Day Care Center, Helen Flanders and Deb Cornelius, Oscar Lasko YMCA Youth Program Center, LeeAnn Riloff, Wings for Success, Dolly Wideman-Scott, Domestic Violence Center of Chester County, Deb Steeves, Legal Aid of Southeastern PA, Cindy Schneider, Acting Antics, and Catherine Binz, The ARC of Chester County. Also receiving a grant (not pictured) was Kevin Corcoran of Fame Fire Company. The grants totaled more than $32,000 and represent a large portion of the proceeds from the Rotary Club's Annual Chili Cook Off. |
