Last Friday

Last Friday by Joe H. Alcorta
January 7, 2011

Well, no one won and everybody clapped! Let me explain. The weekly jackpot is now up to $1,728.00, and it is still up for grabs! So, Rotarians, come next week…and perhaps you could be the winner!!!

Pres. Mike Schweikhard rang the bell and the weekly meeting of The Downtown Abilene Rotary Club got underway. Major James Parrish from the Salvation Army said the prayer. The singing and pledge was led by Twyla Foreman. Kelley Galloway did a great job of introducing several guests.

Raymond Blasingame did Dealing for Dollars. A visitor was the winner of $10.00 by drawing the 4 of Spades. There are about 11 cards left and one of those is the Ace of Spades…that is the one everyone wants!

---Barbara Rollins, on the other hand, is unemployed! Our “former judge in residence” is no more! She has retired. She also gave a plug for Silver Books which publishes local authors.

---Austin King put in $2 for twin new-born grandsons. They are pre-mature in the hospital but they are doing well.

---James Parrish threw in some money to say thanks to Rotarians who rang the bell—to the tune of $303.00. He also said, “Thank goodness, Christmas is over. We helped over 300 children.”

-- Mark Bowen was plugging March 5th when his organization is bringing a musical group to town. Proceeds benefit Disability Resources.

---Donna Albus was plugging the West Texas Reh Center. She said there were at least 114 quilts ready to be bid on. She pushed the Abilene High School quilt signed by all players and coaches.

---Kayla Christianson said she and hubby had celebrated 10 years of marriage. She told her hubby, “This first 10 years were noisy because I did the talking. The next 10 belong to you to do the talking.” Her hubby answered: “It is going to be 10 quiet years!” Spoken like a man!

Bob Kuykendall announced a committee meeting for his group. Sorry Bob, I missed the name of the committee

Pres. Mike said his Rotary Moment was about Paul Harris fellows. He announced and encouraged Rotarians to become Paul Harris by donating $1,000 to the Foundation. He also said one could become a sustaining member by contributing $100 every year or month. He then called on Richard Rolison who has given his second $1,000 to become a Sapphire Harris Fellow. Congratulations to Richard!

Pres. Mike announced that Rotary statements had been sent out by Mary Beth Kilgore. He also asked Rotarians to fill out the forms for Rotary information.

Today’s chairperson was Betty Hukill. Betty introduced her four-person cast who will be performing of a musical with the title “Honk.” Betty said the musical is similar to the “Ugly Duckling.” The cast is made up of several animals and children.

Rotarians heard six great and exciting songs by four people relating to the ugly duck. Sandy Abel was the accompanist at the piano. It was a good humorous and entreating play.

The musical will open this weekend on Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., and on Sunday at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children.

Well, there was a lot of excitement at Rotary! Why? Well the jackpot is close to reaching $2,000!!

Pres. Mike Schweikhard rang the bell and the weekly Downtown Rotary Club got underway.

Jay Hobbs said the prayer. Twyla Foreman did the singing and the pledge to the flag. Kelly Thompson did a good job of introducing guests.

….and Turner Cariker did Dealing for Dollars. He went up to the podium and threw all the stub tickets on the floor! Only Turner would do this! He picked up one and drew the number of Derral
Reed. Turner offered Derral $100 for a card and Derral took it! So, Rotarians, the jackpot is now around $1,800. Come back next week and buy some more tickets!!!!

---Jay Hobbs said his 7th grader and 10th grader son had made the “A” honor roll.

---Barbara Rollins was given credit to Heather Lamb for her good work with the Rotarian.

---Kim Bosher was promoting Taste of Abilene; and also announcing a new grandson who weighs 9 pounds and 12 ounces---a big boy!

Today’s program was Club Assembly, and two things were promoted: The upcoming Rotary Pictorial Director and Taste of Abilene.

Kelley Galloway asked Rotarians to fill the forms that were sent with the statements so correct information can be included in the Rotary Director.

Jennifer Kent promoted Taste of Abilene. There was a vivid and excellent video shown of last year’s Taste of Abilene. The idea is to make it better! The date is Tuesday, April 5th at the Abilene Civic Center. Each Rotarian will be given six tickets at $30.00. Tickets not sold are to be returned by April 1st. This year Michael Thornton will be Master of Ceremonies. Sponsors and volunteers are still needed.

A Rotarian can reserve a table for his friends, family, or business. Okay, Rotarians, let’s get to work and make this year's Taste of Abilene the greatest!

Pinch hitter for Pres. Mike Schweikhard this Friday was Jay Hobbs. Jay rang the bell and the weekly Rotary meeting got underway. There was good attendance. Jay mentioned that Kayla Christianson father-in-law had passed away. He also said that he had visited with Buzz Rehm at Wesley Courts.

Bob Kuykendall said the prayer. Tim Yandell led the singing and the pledge to the flag. Gary Glenn did a good job of introducing guests. New county judge Dowing Bolls was one of the guests.

Dealing for Dollars was done by former U.S. Marine Turner Cariker. Eric Thomas had the winning ticket, and after a little persuasion from Turner, Eric walked away with $100. Turner said 201 tickets were sold today, so…the pot is now over $2,000. Okay, Rotarians, who is going to be the big winner? See you Friday to find out!!!

---Michael Thornton said that Kayla Christianson needed to let the public know about our Taste of Abilene logo. They publicly can vote as to what they want. So, ask your friends to go to Facebook and participate.

---Robert Laird, jokily said something about the public communication the school district had passed; then he shared about the exchange student from Russia who they have kept in contact. She left a Rotary banner to be given to our club.

---Kent Brown who has been hanging out in Colorado said he was glad to be in Abilene. He brought a banner from Colorado. He also put in a plug for RYLA. He says four students are needed to participate.

---Craig Haterius put his money in to brag on Betty Hukill and the “onHonk” performance he saw. He said: “The difference in Broadway and the Paramount presentation was probably the price. Thanks Betty for the great work you do.

---Myra Dean put in her money to brag about her boyfriend. Her boyfriend has taken a big step and auditioned for a comedy act in Dallas.

---Eric Thomas put back $20 of the $100 he won in appreciation and then he gave a plug for his TV station that viewers can see in their iPhone.

Betty Hukill went to the podium to announce to Rotarians as to what steps to take in trying to replace David Stubbeman as our Rotary Executive Director. Do we pay someone? Does someone want to volunteer? Betty gave thanks to Peter Agnell, Mary Beth Kilgore, and Frank Dlugas for pitching in and doing the work David was doing free of charge. There will be a meeting this coming Tuesday, January 25th to come up with a solution. If you are interested you are welcome to attend the meeting.

Chairperson of the day was Donna Albus who introduced speaker Bruce Bixby. As most of you know, Bruce is one of us. He is president and CEO of his business, Bixby Enterprises with offices at 500 Chestnut. Bruce has been associated with The Home Builders Association and is on the Abilene Planning and Zoning Board. He has been very active in trying to help Abilene with the north and south clean-up and beautification plan.

Bruce said that between 1984 and 2008, $15,000,000 had been spent on improvement on the north side of town. At times the city had prohibited building in different parts of town to try to help the problem.

Now there is a strong push to help out parts of the south part of town, especially in the Butternut and Treadaway area

He also mentioned that there is a need for more business in downtown and for more people to live near downtown. The powers to be seem to think that two-way streets would help the situation.

Thanks Bruce for speaking to us about ways of improving our city. We need more citizens like you.

Pres. Mike Schweikhard rang the bell and the weekly meeting of The Abilene Downtown Rotary got underway. Invocation was by C.G. Gray. Bob Test introduced one guest, and then Twyla Foreman came up to lead the singing and the pledge to the flag. Bob said, sorry Twyla, but that is what they told me to do. Okay, Bob, you are forgiven. Bob then did a good job of introducing guests.

Turner Cariker did Dealing for Dollars. He has done an excellent job. Turner said they had sold 207 tickets and the pot is up to $1900. This week’s winner was “our retired judge in residence, Barbara Rollins. Well, Turner talked her into taking the $100 instead of drawing a card. Barbara said put my $100 in the sustaining Paul Harris account. Then Barbara did draw a face card and Turner tore it up. So, now there are 10 cards left!!

---Kent Brown wanted to express gratitude for receiving two names for Camp RYLA. He says he needs two more.

---Kim Bosher wanted to say thanks to Turner Cariker for handling Dealing for Dollars for the month of January. She then asked for volunteers to do it for February. Any takers out there? Call Kim.

---Donna Albus was excited about the result of the Rehab telethon. She was reporting that the 119 quilts brought $40,000. Total was 1.2 million. Great!

---Larry Musick from Global Samaritan Resources was reporting the good missionary work his group did recently in Cambodia. He also said he received a call from Montana saying they had lots of food ready for shipping. His group shipped it to Nicaragua and Honduras.

---Erik Johnson—Thanks to Erik for going to the podium and introducing himself in Spanish. Way to go Erik! (Editor’s note: my idea is that some Rotarians do not know everybody in Rotary. So, this is one way we can learn names by hearing them over and over. Thanks, Rotarians) Erik was sharing a story from his son’s class at St. John’s; a 4-yr old was asked to spell “green.”

---Doug Eichorst was sharing a story about his grandson who played football for the Abilene Eagles. His grandson has signed to play for North Easter State in Oklahoma. Doug said the lakes are great there for fishing.

---Twyla Foreman was saying she wanted every Rotarian to have one of her new CDs; and that she is sharing the profit with Rotary. She also was announcing that she is going to be grandma for the third time!

Pres. Mike welcome new (old) member Johanna Green. Johanna, welcome back to the club!

The following Rotarians had birthdays in January: Peter Agnell, Mike Dickie, Donna Dougherty, Erik Johnson, Gregg Kaiser, Barbara Rollins, and Rebecca Sharp.

Chairman of the day was Bob Hunter and he introduced speaker of the day, Dr. Phil Schubert, president of Abilene Christian University. Dr. Schubert graduated from ACU in 1991, and has been employed with ACU for the last 17 years. Last year he was elected president. Dr. Schubert and his wife have three children.

Dr. Schubert was sharing about ACU, and was also informing us as to how times have changed with technology. He mentioned the cell phone and told us his 14-year-old daughter had sent 2,622 text messages last month. He said he often tells his faculty that today they have to do business in a very different way.

He talked about seminars they have had at ACU to inform teachers of K through 12th grade what to expect for the 21st century. Recognizing all the modern technology, he said ACU still wants to go beyond the regular education and teach the students the meaning of life, and their purpose for life.

He related a funny story when he went to the ACU cafeteria and asked freshman and sophomore what was right and what had gone wrong. One student responded: “Well, last year they had all the desserts spread out in different tables, this year they are all in table which is hard to get to!”

Dr. Schubert concluded his address by saying: “I feel as one of the luckiest man in the world with the job I have.”

He then answered several questions from the floor. Someone wanted to know why did ACU withdraw from the Patty Hanks School of Nursing program? There were other interesting questions.

Well, there was a large crowd at Rotary today! Was it because it was Valentine’s spouse dinner, or because of the large pot in Dealing for Dollars? You decide!

Pres. Mike Schweikhard rang the bell and the meeting got underway. Kent Brown said the prayer and made a plug for RYLA. It was also announced that Bill Paige’s wife had a heart attack. Let’s remember them in our prayers. Mark Powell led the singing and the pledge to the flag. Barbara Rollins did a great job of introducing all guests without saying a name! Great job Barbara!

Betty Hukill did Dealing for Dollars. Twyla Foreman drew the winning tickets and Betty could not bribe her into taking $50, $100, $150, or $200 plus two kisses. Twyla went for it all!! And thank goodness she drew the three of clubs! So, the pot is safe for another week! It is at $2,000.00. There are nine cards left!!!! So, Rotarians, come back next week …you could be that lucky winner!

---Francine Carraro was announcing two coming events at the Grace Museum; one with a special speaker on March 8th. The other announcement was that she had closed on a Condo in Wyoming!

---Mike Dickie threw in $25.00 to say that he and his wife are celebrating their 25thanniversary. But he said he was so busy that he forgot to invite his wife for this event!!!

---Larry Musick from Global Samaritan Resources was reporting that he had met an ambassador from Haiti and was looking forward to mailing supplies to that country without having to pay a big fee. He said it would be duty free.

---Richard Rollins---sorry Richard, no one at our table heard what you said…and we ask for forgiveness!

---Kayla Christianson was pushing that Rotarians go to Facebook and push Taste of Abilene and also to wish Rotarians a “Happy Birthday!”

Pres. Mike announced that Fund spell was coming up and if anyone was interested to give him a call. He also announced about the upcoming pictorial directory; and that there was going to be a board meeting of the meeting today. Mike also announced that Bob Test was the Rotarian of the Week.

Betty Hukill was chairperson of the day and she introduced today’s entertainers, Mark Howell and Twyla Foreman.

The first number that Twyla sang was “I don’t want to,” from Patsy Kline; Twyla said this number is on her new CD.

The second number was by Mark and the song was about country, the Bible, and that things used to be made to last!

Twyla then sang “Crazy for loving you;” and Mark followed with “Home Grown!”

Well, well! The crowd was down a little! I wonder why? I know the answer! J.T. Box was away spending the big jack pot he won last week! Not really, J.T. was recovering from surgery.

Pres. Mike Schweikhard rang the bell and the weekly Friday meeting of The Abilene Downtown Rotary Club got underway. Paul Lenker said the prayer. Michael Thornton led the singing and the pledge to the flag. Pres. Mike and Jonathan Ardoyno did a great job of introducing guests (Mike said something like he was “the dummy!”)

Pete Agnell did Dealing for Dollars. Celia was today’s $10 winner. There were 37 tickets sold today, so the pot now stands at $137.00. (Someone in front of me after buying a ticket asked me, “Joe, will you bless this ticket!?)

---Larry Musick asked for prayers and reported that help is on the way for Japan. Larry will send e-mails for needing supplies, etc.

---Eric Thomas challenged business people to give over $85 to Jonathan Ardoyno for Big Brothers, Big Sisters. Eight-five dollars is what Jonathan collected at Eric’s business.

---Richard Rolison said he had bad and good news. So, what is it? He said he had 8 days and 3 hours for…his wedding? Is that good news; or is it bad news?

---Erik Johnson shared some news about his 8-year old son doing a field trip to a TV station; and was promoting tickets sold by Abilene Business Council.

---Francine Carraro was giving a thank you for the good turnout in her promotion last week at the Civic Center.

---Betty Hukill was promoting “Dinner at 8” tonight and tomorrow night at the Paramount.

Pres. Mike was right-- There were 10 Rotarians who contributed to share a Sunshine Moment; therefore making up for “Dealing for Dollars.”

The following Rotarians came into this world during March and Happy Birthday was sung to them: Tom Boecking, Bill Core, Doug Eichorst, Paul Johnson, Charlie Kitchell, Randy Piersall, Kelley Thompson, and Mike Weber.

Pres. Mike had two announcements: Begin selling tickets for Taste of Abilene; there are three weeks to sell tickets or to return them; and there was to be a board meeting after the program today.

“Mr. Aggie” Fred Lee Hughes introduced speaker County Judge Downing Bolls. Fred Lee said that Downing Bolls and his bride (Debbie) were sending love notes during a time when both were supposed to be covering a City Council meeting at city hall when Fred Lee was mayor (1975-78) Fred Lee said this was before “phone texting!” Downing Bolls worked on radio and TV for many years. Downing was a Marine and he graduated from Southwest State and Abilene Christian University.

After many years in the news media, Downing Bolls was elected to be Taylor Country Judge last November.

Downing Bolls was here to share news about what is going on in Taylor County. Downing’s first story was about Taylor’s county seat. Originally it was in Buffalo Gap; but after some dealings and elections it was moved to Abilene. Downing said it took The Texas Rangers to transfer records from the original seat to today’s place.

Downing also said the county is in the process of putting on records on the computer so they can be viewed on-line. He also shared that after he was elected Judge he was given a tour of Taylor County and that there are beautiful areas in our county that the public cannot see because it is difficult to drive in those areas.

The Judge shared that part of his job was dealing with mental cases. He also shared that Taylor County is having a Wellness Center for its employees. He said there were many benefits in have a clinic for its employees. The Center will cost $280,000. He also mentioned the problems with the ambulance service around Taylor County.

He also had some comments on the Taylor County Expo Center. He said the county owns the land but someone else runs it.

The last thing he spoke about was something like a security place that has been built at the court house that will be used in transferring prisoners by law officers into and out of the court house.

Pinch Hitter today for Pres. Mike Schweikhard was Betty Hukill, and she did a great job. Ed Brokaw said the prayer; Betty led the singing and the pledge to the flag. Tammy Elliott did a fair job of introducing guests.

Kim Bosher did Dealing for Dollars. She said 35 tickets were sold today so the pot now stands at $179.00. In case you missed, J.T. Box took the $2600 about three weeks ago! Today’s $10 winner was Charlie Kitchell with number 2069.

---Heather said she would be on the air with KACU. She was asking Rotarians to call her.

---Twyla Foreman went to brag on her grandkids. She said by December she will probably have three grandchildren! Congratulations, Twyla!

---Kent Brown went and put a plug for RYLA, Kent says we have a budge to send 4 Juniors or Seniors from high school to camp RYLA. There high school students learn about leadership and many other things.

---Larry Muscik was promoting s straw that sells for $10 that purifies water as you drink it. Larry says the straw takes care of lots of bacteria and germs! Hey, Larry, where can we buy it?

---Morris Baker threw in a couple of dollars to announce the past marriage of Richard Rolison. Morris said Richard did not have any money.

Betty Hukill announced the Rotary District Assembly which is to take place in Ft. Worth (Tarrant County College, Trinity River Campus) on April 16-18. Rotarians, let’s go!!

Taste of Abilene big wheel Jennifer Kent put in a plug for our annual fund raiser. She encouraged Rotarians to sell their tickets or to return them by next Friday. Tickets are $30 each.

FundSpell is this coming Tuesday at the city library at 6:30 p.m. Let’s go and support Bruce Lampert and Kelley Thompson. This even support and encourage literacy.

Chairperson for the day was Betty Hukill and she was the program and brought a film,

This is the 12th annual time that Betty and her crew show several short films which have been entered from all around the world. The brochure said: The Butterfly Circus. At the height of the Great Depression, the showman of a renowned circus leads his troupe through the devastated American landscape, lifting the spirits of audiences along the way.”

About 24 short films will be show at the Paramount on November 5-6. On Friday they will be shown at 7:00 p.m. On Saturday there are two times; 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. they are all excellent films.

The Butterfly Circus was very interesting and entertaining. Rotarians seem to have enjoyed the film. Thanks Betty for bringing this film to us. Thanks for all you do for our community.

Well, it was a good crowd today even if the Dealing for Dollars pot is only at $223.00!

Pres. Mike Schweikhard rang the bell and the weekly Rotary meeting got underway. PDG Spike Harris said the prayer. Jim Tredennick led the singing and the pledge to the flag. Fred Lee Hughes did a great job, as always, of introducing guests. He concluded by stating in Spanish, “how about those Aggie girls, en el Final Cuatro!” In case your Spanish is that bad, Fred Lee was bragging on the Women’s Aggie Basketball team for making the Final Four.

Kelly Thompson did Dealing for Dollars. Kelly said 64 tickets were sold today so that brings the pot to $223.00. Today’s $10 winner was Larry Muscik by drawing the 10 of hearts.

--Fred Lee Hughes bragging on the Aggies’ Girls Basketball Team for making it to the Final Four.

Fred Lee didn’t say it, but the Aggies beat the Baylor Bears to get to the final four.

---Myra Dean was asking Rotarians to go on-line thru KACU and donate some food items.

---Betty Hukill threw in a couple of dollars to brag on Rotary‘s SpellFund team made up by Bruce Lampert and two other Rotarians who won first place! Entry fees and profits were for the Taylor County Adult Literacy.

---Richard Rolison said his marriage is going good…so far it is the best marriage he has had!

---Mike Weber was also bragging about his marriage. He said a few years ago on April 1 he and his lovely bride were married. He only had $20 bill and wanted change!!!

---Gary Glen said it was cheap advertising so he was promoting his business who has joined together with a national franchise.

Dick Burton said he was throwing a couple of dollars in for Alabama who lost in the March madness.

Jennifer Kent made an announcement about next week’s big Fund Raiser---Taste of Abilene. Return tickets or pay for tickets you have. She also said she has shirts for volunteers for $10.00.

Another announcement was the Rotary District Assembly in Ft. Worth on April 15 and 16. Let Mary Beth know if you are attending.

Our program today was one of our Rotary exchange students, Jesse Turner Coulter. Jesse is a Hardin-Simmons University graduate and is currently working on a Master’s program at HSU. Jesse said she always wanted to be an exchange student. In fact she waited until she graduated from high school and was enrolled as a college freshman.

Jesse was an exchange student in Bydgirzez, Poland. She said the hardest thing was the Polish language. She said the Polish language is the 4th hardest to learn. Two families hosted her. She attended high school and got to play soccer. She spoke highly of the Rotary Exchange Program. She said it got her out of the comfort zone. She made lots of friends, and it helped her to become a more mature person.

She concluded by saying, “I encourage students to study abroad. The experience is priceless!”

Pres. Mike Schweikhard rang the bell and the weekly Abilene Rotary meeting got underway.

Bruce Lampert said the prayer. Tim Yandell led the singing and the pledge to the flag. Turner Cariker did a great job of introducing guests.

Kelly Thompson did Dealing for Dollars. She said 34 tickets were sold today so the pot now stands at $225.00. This week’s winner $10 winner was Bob McMillan.

---Richard Rolison pinched hit for Fred Lee Hughes in throwing in a couple of dollars to brag on the Aggie Gals for winning National in Basketball.

---Betty Hukill gave some money to announce this weekend presentation at the Paramount.

---Barbara Rollins was plugging another of her company production, Flashlight Memories.

---Ken Brown, as usual gave a couple of dollars to plug Camp RYLA. He said we had “zero” applicants. Okay, Rotarians let’s get busy and find those juniors and seniors from high school.

---Tim Yandell threw in $5 to brag on Jonathan Ardoyno for his fund raiser abilities toward Big Brothers, Big Sisters.

Pres. Mike recognized Peter Agnell as the Rotarian of the Week. Peter is a good one!

Pres. Mike also bragged on Jennifer Kent and her committee for the great job they did on Taste of Abilene. He said over 1,000 people attended last Tuesday event.

Chairman of the day was Bob Kuykendall who introduced speaker Chief of Police Stan Standridge. Stan started working for the City of Abilene as a patrolman in 1995. He was appointed Chief of Police in 2009. Stan graduated from Midwestern State with top honors. The Chief also served in the Air Force. Stan came to give a report on the crime and safety of Abilene.

The Chief informed Rotarians that 184 police officers serve the City of Abilene which has an area of 111 square miles with about 117,000 people. Stan said the FBI recommends 2 police officers for every 1000 people. So, with that recommendation Abilene probably needs about 50 more officers.

The cost? The salary for one policeman is $59,000, plus vehicle at $21,000, plus uniform at $3,100, plus equipment for the officer and car around $18,000, totals to close to $103,000 for each officer. Wow! Then, the Chief asked the audience if they were willing to up their taxes to get the 50 officers; not many hands went up!!

The Chief started by giving a report on a crime at a convenience store that happened within the last year. A husband wanted to burn the place down and then shoot his wife as she ran out of the building. He gave some details as how the police responded and captured the criminal.

He asked, “Is Abilene a safe city?” Or, “How does Abilene rate to crime?” The answer is always compared to what? We are compared with cities such as the size of Midland, San Angelo, Odessa, Waco, Grand Prairie, etc.

The Chief ended his talk by demonstrating and talking about the latest weapon, the Taser gun which most police officers carry with them. The Taser gun works within 5 seconds in that in “freezes” the suspect, and the officers can handcuff the suspect.

Pres. Mike Schweikhard was AWL, but the substitute Kayla Christianson did a fair job of presiding! After Kayla rang the bell the weekly meeting of Rotary got underway.

Betty Hukill said the prayer, and Michael Gordon led the singing and the pledge to the flag. “Returning” Rotarian Don Drennan did a good job of introducing guests. Don also mentioned the fact that Spike Harris and other veterans had enjoyed the recent Washington trip to see the WWII Memorial.

Kelly Thompson did Dealing for Dollars. Kelly said 45 tickets were sold and the pot now stands at $254.00. C.G. Gray was $20 richer as his ticket was drawn.

---Myra Dean again made a plug for KACU. She said to go on line and find groceries and contribute. Her second brag was that for one week she had not touched a regular soft drink.

---Kayla Christianson put in a dollar or two to announce that she and hubby were celebrated 11 years of marriage. In fact, they performed a brief dialogue as how it happened 11 years ago. Not bad!

Turner Cariker was recognized as the Rotarian of the Week. Too bad he was not present. He was probably playing golf.

The following Rotarians had birthdays in April: Dick Burton, 27; Tom Ceniglis, 24; Tammy Elliott, 14; Woody Gilliland, 22; Johan Green, 30; Robert Laird, 10; Dave O’Connor, 4; and Richard Rolison, 21.

Happy Birthday was sung to these fine Rotarians. Wedding Anniversaries were also read: Bruce and Deborah Bixby, 1; Dave and Margie Boyll, 14; Dick and Charlotte, 26; Bob and Margie Kuykendall, 12; and Mike and Bonnie Weber, 1.

Kayla announced no meeting for next Friday, April 22. The following Friday will be chuck Moser day at Rotary, April 29.

There was to be a committee meeting of Taste of Abilene to talk about the good things, and some things needed improvement.

Francine Carraro introduced speaker Katie Alford who is the Executive Director of the Community Foundation of Abilene. Katie was here to talk about the workings of the Foundation.

Katie said the Abilene community Foundation is 1 of 700 in the United States. It is a public foundation and it is tax exempt. The Foundation has been here in Abilene since 1985 and it has grown to assets of 80 million dollars. She said the Foundation is Permanent, Flexible, and Personalized.

She said a person could give to the Foundation in the following ways and she explained each one: cash, stock, real estate, beneficiary of Estate, and life insurance policy.

Katie said the Foundation practiced sound Stewardship by four ways: Adherence to donor intent; oversees by board of local civic leaders, variance power protects the endowment, and fiduciary oversight.

She also explained how individuals could get involved through a program called Future Fund. A person can get involved with an initial amount of $250.00, or they can make an initial lifetime membership by paying $2,500.00.

Katie said the Foundation has made grants of $59, 000, and 000 in their 25 year existence.

After Katie’s presentation Betty Hukill addressed Rotarians concerning the possiblity of hiring an executive director or finding someone who could do the books and necessary paperwork for our Rotary club. Betty expressed thanks to Frank Dlugas, Peter Agnell, and Beth Kilgore for doing what David Stubbeman had been doing. If a Rotarian is interested in doing this or there is an idea, call Betty, or Mike Schweikhard.

It was Coach Chuck Moser Day! This is the 13th year our Rotary Club celebrates this day.

Pres. Mike Schweikhard rang the bell and the weekly meeting of the Downtown Abilene Rotary Club got underway. Bob Kuykendall said the prayer and he mentioned the family of Kayla Christianson who lost her mother-in-law. Twyla Foreman led the singing and the pledge to the flag.

Pres. Mike recognized Bob Kuykendall as the Rotarian of the Week. Bob has been around the club for a long time and he has taken a lot of photos of club members. Mike also asked for Rotarians to nominate people for Rotarian of the Year.

Pres. Mike recognized Turner Cariker, chairman of the day, who recognized M.C. Al Pickett.

Turner gave a short history of Chuck Moser Day. It all began a few years ago with former past President Ted Paup. Ted had noticed that one of the Rotary clubs in Houston recognized the outstanding lineman of the year and he shared this information with Al Pickett, sports director for the Abilene Reporter-News. Turner said he inherited the job from Ted and has done it for the last few years.

Turner recognized Al Pickett who is a radio sports announcer, and one who has written several books relating to football. Al has agreed to be the MC for this event for 12 years. And, he does a great job!

Al started by quoting his favorite Scripture, which is found in Jeremiah 29: 11 and 12: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” In a humors way, Al added saying that God should have said: “and, you do not have an idea what are my plans for you!” Al went on to explain that one plan God had for him was to take famous coach Emory Ballard all around Texas so Coach Ballard could see many of his players he had coached. Al said he had a great time doing that. He was also sad in reporting the Coach Ballard had passed away a few months ago.

Al started out by sharing with Rotarians the ten outstanding athletes who are going to be inducted to the Abilene Hall of Fame this coming May 9th. This write missed some, but here are some who were mentioned: Wally Bullington, Bob Lilly, Cindy Shelton, Morris Southhall, and Carlton Stowers. Of course, as always, Al had some good stories on each player. Bob Lilly had not been inducted because he actually did not graduate from high school from the 19 counties of the Big Country. Bob attended Throckmorton High School, but his senior year his family moved to Oregon!

One purpose of The Chuck Moser Day is to recognize this great coach who symbolized what’s right about Texas football. He was a winner, of course. He compiled a 141-28-2 won-loss record as a high school coach in Missouri and Texas, winding up with a 78-7-2 mark during his seven year reign from 1953 through 1959. His Abilene High teams won three straight state championship, 1954-56, and six straight division titles after barely losing out to eventual state champion, Odessa, 19-14, in 1953. He mad national headlines when Abilene High’s 49-game winning streak set a national record in 1957.

During this event two local outstanding coaches are recognized and scholarship is given. This year the student-athlete scholarship went to Shalin Martinez from Abilene High School. Shalin plans on attending Hardin-Simmons University.

Coach of the Year of Female Athletics was Tri Danley from Wylie High School. Coach’s Danley Basketball Girls team won state. Coach of the Year, Male Athletics was Josh Fostel from Eula High. His boys’ basketball team won state. These two outstanding coaches are truly fine men who are excellent role models for our students in school. Congratulations to Shalin, and Coaches Danley and Fostel.

Two TV stations were present so Rotary should get some good publicity this weekend.

This writer all along thought Fred Lee Hughes was an Aggie, but this Friday I discovered that Fred Lee is really a talking horse by the name of “Willie,” or was it “Dollar?” More later…

Pres. Mike Schweikhard rang the bell and the weekly meeting of The Downtown Abilene Rotary Club got underway. The retired judge Barbara Rollins said the prayer. Betty Hukill led Rotarians singing “Row, Row Your Boat” in honor of Mothers’ Day; and then she led in the pledge to the flag.

Craig Haterius did a great job of introducing guests. Jennifer Kent did Dealing for Dollars. Thirty-seven tickets were sold and the pot is slowly climbing up. Today’s $10 winner was Peter Agnell. He drew the seven of Spades.

---Pres. Mike put in $5 for anyone to figure out what was the connection between “Row, Row Your Boat,” and Mothers’ Day!

---Tim Yandell threw in $6 and then he explained: I have challenged my staff to find six volunteers. Tim also said he had applications for anyone who wanted to become a Big Brother/Sister.

---Kent Brown as usual gave his plug for Camp RYLA. In fact, he contributed $100 for a young man who is going besides two young ladies proposed by Bruce Bixby.

---Tom Boecking bragged on his grandchildren. He said he had 5 loud grandboys; but tomorrow is the 8thbirthday of his granddaughter!

---Larry Musick threw in some money to brag on his college son who will be studying calculus this summer to take some kind of exam to continue his medic research.

---Raymond Blasingame had an answer for Pres. Mike about Row Row Your Boat and Mothers’ Day. Raymond said his Mother never rode a boat!

Pres. Mike recognized Bob Hunter as the Rotarian of the week. As usual, the Rotarian of the Week was absent! Pres. Mike also encouraged Rotarians to suggest names for “Rotarian of the Year.”

Pres. Mike then recognized our newest Rotarian—Jesse Coulter. The newest Rotarian works for the Abilene Community Foundation and she is a graduate student at Hardin-Simmons University. Jesse has been a Rotary Exchange Student. She says she is very happy to be a Rotarian.

Chairperson of the day was Cindy Haley who introduced Rebecca Sharp. Rebecca is a Rotarian and she is a licensed social worker. She is also a writer and has created some videos. Rebecca then introduced David Perkins who is Vice President for Child Care Program at Hendrick Home for Children.

And that is where our Rotarian Fred Lee Hughes comes in. Fred Lee narrates part of the video that David presented. Fred Lee explains how the Equine Therapy works at the M. Bernard hanks Equestrian Center. The video show different activities that the children do around horses as a teaching tool for them. The title of the video: “Straight From the Horse’s Mouth.”

Mr. Perkins explained how the staff works hard in trying to teach the children about responsibility, hard work, dependability, and moral values. The staff tries to show children how a home works. Children are placed in groups of eight with some house parents. These children come from broken homes where the Dad or the Mom had abandoned them.

Hendrick Home for Children was founded in 1939 by West Texas pioneers, Thomas G. and Ida Nations Hendrick. For more information call at 325—692-0112; or go to their web site: www.HendrickHome.org,Internet

Pres. Mike Schweikhard rang the bell and the weekly meeting of The Downtown Abilene Rotary Club got underway. Retired “Judge” Barbara Rollins said the prayer. Michael Thornton led the singing and the pledge to the flag. J. T. Box did a great job of introducing guests.

Bettsy Paige did Dealing for Dollars. Peter Agnell was asleep and he missed out on his winning number; so a second number was drawn. C.G. Bray had the winning number and he won $10.00.

---Kayla Christianson was giving a testimony that she had cut off some of her beautiful long hair to be donated to an organization called “Locks of Love.” She did say this organization make wigs for cancer patients.

---Turner Cariker was bragging about his daughter who has completed two years at that famous school, Texas A&M.

---Francine Carraro was excited about the Museum great exhibit which drew lots of people; some as far as from New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The exhibit is open until August 20th.

Rotarians sang “Happy Birthday” to the following Rotarians: Raymond Blasingame, May 25; Kim Bosher, 6; Frank Dlugas, 22; Pete Fox, 1; Lam Heather, 22; Bob McMillan, 25; B.S. Roberson, 13; Mike Sadler, 18; and Randy Smith on the first.

Pres. Mike reminded Rotarians to nominate people for Rotarian of the Year. The following Rotarians have been Rotarian of the Year: Paul Lenker, Orval Filbeck, Harry Tredennick, Betty Hukill, Ted Paup, Tim and Jayne Propst, Dave Boyll, bob Kuykendall, C.G. Gray, B.C. Roberson, Pete Agnell, Gary Glenn, Will Dix, David Stubbeman, B.C. Roberson, turner Cariker, Erik Johnson, Kim Bosher, and Bob Hunter.

One of our very own members, Larry Musick presented the program today. Larry and his wife and family are multilingual and very active in community affairs. Larry is associated with Global Samaritans. Larry opened up the program by showing a video of Global Samaritan at work. Rotarians also got a little taste of comedian Henry Cho who will be in Abilene on October 11 for a fund raiser for Global Samaritan.

Larry says Global Samaritan operates from a 90,000 square building where materials (medical and household goods) are kept which are shipped all around the world in needed times. The group has operated in 10 countries. Lately they have helped in Cambodia, Haiti, Nicaragua, Honduras, and Japan.

Here is some information from a brochure: “Global Samaritan’s medical specialist and international coordinator are in contact with our overseas representative. We coordinate and consult with missionaries, doctors, hospitals and congregations to determine their needs and how we can help meet needs to serve their communities.”

This how the public and Rotarians can help: “Pray that God’s grace will empower this ministry; pray for those who will receive aid from GSR; and pray for our ministry partners.

“Tell others what you know about Global Samaritan; allow a Global Samaritan representative to come to your church or civic club to tell this great story; become involved as a volunteer; become a Samaritan with us through your financial gifts to Global Samaritan.

“Encourage those that you know to give to this ministry; follow us on Twitter, Facebook or Linkedin; and sign-up to receive our newsletter.

“Global Samaritan obtains goods for world-wide distribution with a $10,000,000 annual equipment grant from the U.S. Government. These goods are practical and necessary to relieve the burdens of the poor and need.”

Thank you Larry for sharing the above information with us Rotarians; and thank you for what you do through this wonderful organization.

Past president Betty Hukill was substituting for Pres. Mike Schweikhard. She rang the bell and the weekly Downtown Rotary meeting got underway. Bob Hunter said the prayer. Twyla Foreman led the singing and the pledge to the flag. Myra Dean did a good job of introducing guests.

Betsy Paige did Dealing for Dollars. Riley Griffith was today’s winner. The pot is now around $300.00.

---Myra Dean said Rotarians had one week to plug into KACU on-line and participate in the food project. It goes for a good cause.

--Francine Carraro was excited in reporting she was attending a Museum conference. She was more excited that she was going on vacation.

---Betty Hukill had some comment related to the end of the world which had been predicated by someone.

Turner Cariker got to the podium and gave Rotarians a “Go get them flag project.” He recognized Rotarians who help and who have helped in the past. Paul Lenker and Gary Glenn answered the call to help Turner. Anybody else wants to help? Call Turner. Memorial Day is coming up, and Rotarians are needed to set out the flag as well as to pick them up.

Betty said our Rotary club needs an additional $325 to be able to send that extra student to RYLA. Okay, Rotarians, let us pitch in and get that done.

Chairperson for the day was Donna Albus, and she introduced Kim Vickers, the speaker. Kim is the director of the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement. Kim is a Cooper High, McMurry, and HSU graduate. He also worked for many years with our local police. Kim talked about the Memorial that is located in Austin in recognition of police officers in Texas who lose their life while on duty.

It took ten years to raise funds for the memorial. The beautiful memorial was dedicated on May 10, 1999. Records have gone back as far as 1837 to honor those officers who have fallen during duty. There are a total of 1,782 officers who have lost their lives while performing their duty. May is dedicated to honoring these men and women. The huge Memorial in Austin has at the foot of the big circle the following words: Bravery, Honor, Dedication, and Service.

It was sad to learn that the memorial is decaying and is in need of repair. The cost? $300,000!

Kim said he was not asking for money, but rather for foundations or individuals that were interesting in contributing for this project.

He concluded his talk by recalling the deaths of officers Jeff McCoy and Rodney Holder. Jeff lost his life on June 5, 2007; and Rodney was killed on April 29, 2010. It was very emotional to hear “The Last Call” (Jeff McCoy) as is the custom in the funeral service of fallen officers.

Vic said there are 75,000 peace officers; and 24,000 are on daily schedules. There will be a benefit golf tournament in Manor, Texas later in May.

President Mike Schweikhard rang the bell and the weekly Rotary meeting got underway. Charlie Kitchell said the prayer; and Major James Parrish led the singing and the pledge to the flag. Dave Boyll, as always, did a great job of introducing guests.

Mary Beth Kilgore did Dealing for Dollars. Today’s $10 winner was Tom Boecking. The pot is now up to $388.00.

---Robert Laird said some nice things about his Dad’s 93rd birthday. The Senior Mr. Laird flew many missions on a B17 in the Air Force. Our hats are off to the senior statesman.

---Austin King put in a couple of dollars in appreciation of wife (politician) Susan being home.

---Larry Musick was asking for prayer and supplies as he visits Missouri and Japan.

---Kayla Christianson said: “We were there!” She was referring to being close and around tornadoes in their short vacation.

---Dave Boyll bragged on granddaughter graduation and another one heading for physician’s assistant school.

Pres. Mike recognized Mary Beth Kilgore as the Rotarian of the week. Mary Beth is a good one!

Chairperson of the day was Donnas Albus and she had the privilege of introducing son Damon Albus who was today’s speaker. Damon is an Abilene High School and Tarleton graduate. He was in the border patrol. He is very active in the community where he has coached baseball and serves in the rodeo committee. He and his wife have three children.

Damon gave us a short history as to how he got into the hat business. He visited a gentleman in Lubbock who had a hat shop and equipment. Damon bought him out and set out for business here in Abilene.

In brief, Damon shared the history of how a hat is made. He talked about material and equipment. He had a “contraption” which he placed on Frank Dlugas head; from this he knew the size of Frank’s head, etc. Damon says he can make a hat in eight hours if he is not disturbed! However, at this time, the timetable for a new hat is about six months!

A pure Beaver hat runs around $600.00. Damon said he could tell from where a person is by his hat. He says the brim and the crease say a lot about a person. He also said that basically all hats are the same.

It was an interested program, and Rotarians asked lots of questions about hats. It seems like John Harris is one of his best customers.

Pres. Mike Schweikhard rang the bell and the weekly Abilene Downtown Rotary Club meeting got underway. Doug Eichorst said the prayer. Mike Thornton led the singing and the pledge to the flag. Raymond Blasingame did a good job introducing guests.

Heather Lam did Dealing for Dollars. Today’s winner was Randy Smith. The pot now stands at over $300.00.

---Paul Lenker was bragging on his three grandchildren. He also said that in some school they begin their day by reciting Rotary’s 4-Way Test. That is awesome!

---Kayla Christianson was excited about her business celebrating 10 years—IN-Focus Digital.

---C.G. Gray said he was going to be absent next Friday (June 10th) because he would be on his way to the Holy Land!

Kayla Christianson announced that the Rotary directories will be e-mailed for Rotarians to download or to keep in the computer. She said they would be updated every three months.

Kent Brown made another announcement about RYLA. He said there was a need for someone to take the three students to Denton on June 23 and then someone to bring them back on the 26th.

Chairperson for the day was Bob Hunter who introduced speaker Dr. Heath Burns. Dr. Burns is completing his first year as Superintendent of The Abilene Independent School District. Dr. Burns and his wife have two sets of twins. The ages of the children are seven and five.

Dr. Burns started by stating that the AISD was already the “best.” He said the school had the most Merit Scholarships winners…and that our schools were rich in diversity. And he said our schools have Christian values.

The Supt. Also stated that AISD has a 65% poverty level. He also said: “The system does not make a lot of noise if we cheat the minorities.”

Dr. Burns said he demands excellence from his teachers as he would demand excellence in selecting a local doctor to treat him.

He bragged on Texas Representative Susan King who had voted in favor of Texas schools. He said he and his staff had cut the local budget 9 million dollars.

He also talked about the 4 X 4 curriculum system. He is against it! This system says a student takes 4 years of science, 4 years of math, etc. etc. He also answered questions about class size, etc.

The bottom line was what most Rotarians already know about education. If parents care, encourage, and help the students, most of them will succeed---and that is what the Superintendent said! He gave his cell number!!!! He wants to be accountable. His number is 979-481-0644.

1. Seventy percent of AISD campuses received an Exemplary or Recognized rating from the Texas Education Agency. One Hundred percent of AISD campuses are rated Acceptable or higher.

2. In 2010, AISD received 33 Gold Performance Acknowledgements from the Texas Education Agency.

3. AISD has the highest academic performance among urban school districts in West Texas

4. AISD students are currently attending and excelling at all major Texas universities and at Harvard, Princeton, Dartmouth, Yale, and Massachusetts institute of Technology.

5. AISD has the highest average salary in Region 14. The recruitment and retention of the highest performing teachers in our area leads to higher student success.

We were sad in learning that long-time Rotarian Buzz (Paul) Rehm passed away on Wednesday, June 8. Visitation is on Monday, June 13; and the funeral is on Tuesday, June 14th. Buzz was born in Chicago, on June 13, 1915. Buzz joined our Rotary Club in November, 1962. We will miss him; he was a good one!

Pres. Mike Schweikhard rang the bell and the weekly Downtown Abilene Rotary Clubs got underway. Mike Sadler said the prayer. Laurie McAdams led the singing and the pledge to the flag.

Jennifer Kent did Dealing for Dollars. Today’s $20.00 winner was Mary Beth Kilgore. The pot is now over $300.00.

---Raymond Blasingame was excited about his son who travelled to Joplin, Missouri to help out with the recent disaster.

---Donna Albus was announcing that soon the West Texas Rehab Center is having golf tournament as a fund raiser. Rotarians are proud that this golf tournament will be called the David Stubbeman golf tournament. Rotarians can also register for a driver and putter that will be raffled away.

----This writer missed the name of the Rotarian who mentioned that the Mavericks will be on KTexas but more important the Children Miracle Network will also be on.

---Betty Hukill was promoting “Some like It Hot’’ this coming June 10th and 11.

---Francine Carraro was reporting on her vacation and the nice weather. She also said she did see a bear!

Pres. Mike recognized Myra Dean as the Rotarian of the Week. Congratulations to Myra. She is a good one!

Pres. Mike had the honor of introducing our newest member, Tony. (Sorry, this writer missed the last name). Tony was happy to be introduced as a Rotarian. He was happy to report that he is a cancer survivor and was very appreciative to his wife who took care of him. Tony and wife have three children. Tony grew up in San Angelo, Texas. He and his family have been here in Abilene a few months. Tony works in the banking business.

Pres. Mike recognized Spike Harris, Morris Baker, Bob Hunter, and Ed Brokaw for going beyond The Paul Harris Fellow. Each Rotarian has contributed more than $1,000 to the Paul Harris Foundation.

Mike also reported that this year our club has raised $1,050 for the Foundation. He challenged for each Rotarian to contribute at least $100 per year.

Pres. Mike encouraged Rotarians to help Turner Cariker and his crew to set out the American Flags next Tuesday (June 14).

Rotarians who have not settle their Taste of Abilene account need to see Jennifer Kent.

A driver is needed to take high school students to the RYLA event in Denton. The date is June 23rd; the group will leave Abilene around 5:00 a.m.

Chairperson for the day was Betty Hukill who introduced Barry Smoot, artistic director at the Paramount Theater. Barry and Betty brought a small crew, two ladies, five men, from the cast of

“The on-line advertisement reads: The hilarious hit Broadway musical, all local cast of actors, singers, dancers and musicians. This riotous show, a spoof of the sugar-coated musical of the 1920s and 1930s, is about a brazen Hollywood starlet trying to find, and keep her true love.”

Mr. Barry Smoot and his group did a great job. Rotarians were laughing and clapping. The actor “Aldolpho” played by Seth Womack probably stole the show with his song. The “Oops song” was also a hit.

This musical will be performed at the Paramount on Friday, and Saturday, June 24 and 25 at 7:30 p.m.; and on Sunday 26th at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $10, $12, $15, and $20.00.

Next Friday, our very own Spike Harris will present a program on patriotism. Pres. Mike reminded Spike about the time period. (I wonder why?)

Pres. Mike Schweikhard rang the bell and the weekly Rotary meeting got underway. Charlie Kitchell said the prayer. Michael Thornton led Rotarians in singing, God Bless America, and then a nice surprised followed by having The National Anthem play on a tape while Rotarians sang. It was great! American flags decorated our tables.

Craig Haterius struggled a little in introducing several guests. Mary Beth Kilgore did Dealing for Dollars. Mary Beth said 31 tickets were sold today; the pot now stands at $356.00. Today’s $10 winner was a Rotarian visitor from Corpus Christi.

The following Rotarians were recognized as having a birthday in June: Bob Hunter, 25; Paul Lenker, 26; Tony Morrow, 2; Derral Reed, 30; and Brad Wicker, 8. Rotarians sang Happy Birthday.

Pres. Mike recognized Dave Boyll as a Rotarian who has surpassed the Paul Harris Fellow.

Betty Hukill was recognized as the Rotarian of the week; and is customary, she was absent!

Pres. Mike then had a pleasant shore to do: introduce Victoria Stephenson as a new Rotarian. Victoria is full of enthusiasm and she shared some not so good news about her family. She recently lost her husband and daughter. She said she has three hobbies: teaching, giving parties, and learning. She said she might even enroll at Hardin-Simmons University because Senior Citizens enroll free!!!

Pres. Mike announced about the completed Rotarian Pictorial Directory. He expressed thanks to Kayla Christianson, Kelly Thompson, and Marty Pothier. The directory is on-line.

A few dollars were collected to help buy some Texas boots for an exchange student.

Pres. Mike said the board had taken two actions in their last meeting: Dues will go up by $10, and people who have not settled their Taste of Abilene will be getting a phone call.

Myra Dean introduced speaker of the day, Spike Harris. Who is Spike? Everyone knows! He is the jolly fellow who likes to talk a lot! Spike was born on August 18, 1922, and enrolled at Abilene Christian College at the age of 16! His graduate work was done at The University of Texas.

Spike is past president of our club and a Past District Governor. Spike served in the Navy for several years (1942-1947) and then served in the Reserves until he retired in 1967 as a Lt. Commander. Spike and his wife have one son and one daughter.

Spike’s talk today was about patriotism. He shared some exciting things which have meant a lot to him as a proud American: (1) Serving on a support ship for the Okinawa invasion. He said there were 40,000 American causalities; and 120,000 Japanese causalities after the U.S. dropped the bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August, 1945.

Another exciting moment was when he and wife Betty visited France. There he was told he was on United States property. He asked, “How is that possible?” He was told that France had given the U.S. all the property in the cemetery where American soldiers were buried. He said as he walked through the cemetery, the first very first black cross he saw had a Hispanic name on it. He said he got emotional and cried. He said about 10,000 bodies are buried there.

Another big moment in his life was when he went to Washington and stood in line with a Navy man from Abilene who was second in command to the Joint Chief of Staff.

And the last memory was about four years ago (2007) where he and his wife Betty rode in a parade in downtown Austin, Texas where they were honoring veterans from all branches. He mentioned a special friend by the name of Bradley who meant a lot to him and had also accompanied Spike to Austin.

Even though Spike has some health issues he did a good job of telling his story as a very proud American man. …and he was finished by 12:45! Thanks Spike for serving our country and sharing with us.

Then we had a few minutes for Sunshine Moments which the President had forgotten.

---Jim Tredennick threw in $5.00 to talk about the Veteran Employment program through Goodwill West Texas. One of his visitors added a word to it! The word was to hire Veterans, they make excellent employees!!

---And last but not least Barbara Rollins said she had joined the Grandma crew. She was proudly announcing the birth of two of her grandchildren! Congratulations, Grandmother!!!

Pres. Mike Schweikhard was playing hooky (or skipping, as they say in school), and President-elect Kayla Christianson did a good job of presiding. She was really practicing for after next week, she officially takes over! Welcome Kayla! Yours truly said the prayer, and Larry Musick led the singing and the pledge to the flag. “Retired judge” Barbara Rollins did a good job of introducing guests.

Heather Lam, Rotarian of the week, did Dealing for Dollars. Thirty-two tickets were sold today, so the pot now stands at $367.00. There are still 39 cards left. Today’s winner was Dave O’Connor. He did not draw the Ace of Spades!

---Myra Dean said the musical; “The Drowsy Chaperone” at the Paramount was great that she had laughed a lot last weekend. She gave it a great rating!

---Betty Hukill gave the musical another plug which is this weekend at the Paramount.

---Larry Musick was announcing that he will be spending the next five weeks in Japon and Argentina….and then he will be spending a lot of time in Nashville since his bride has a job there. Larry, we are going to miss you!!!! Good luck!

Kayla announced Heather Lam as the Rotarian of the Week. Congratulations Heather!

Kayla announced that club dues are going up in the amount of $10 every six months; and that Rotarians need to quickly settle their Taste of Abilene accounts…If not, some “bad” board member is going to be calling!

Assistant Governor “all around Rotarian” Dave Boyll presented a certificate from Rotary International thanking our club for our donation and participation to the Rotary Foundation, especially in the local Polio banquet held at ACU.

Dave also gave a plug for the International Rotary float which appears every first of January in

The Rose Parade in Pasadena, California. Brad Walker, a Rotarian, and our visitor today, is the chairman of the float parade. Dave had a picture of the float that will be on display this coming January. Thanks Dave and Brad.

Dave also encouraged Rotarians to contribute their $100 per year to the Rotary Foundation.

Myra Dean, chairperson, of the day introduced speaker Bobby Miers. Bobby graduated from cooper High School in 1978 and from Texas Tech in 1982. His degree at Tech was in finance investments. Bobby and his wife Sarah have two adult children, and two grandchildren.

Our speaker is the owner of Bobby Miers Investments. Mike’s talk was on the State of the Economy in our country.

Mike started out by commenting that in 1980 our national debt was about one trillion; and thirty years later, our debt has reached over 14 trillion. (Editor’s note: how much is a trillion?)

Mike then talked about who pays the taxes and what per cent each category pays. He gave the story of Mr. Warren Buffet who is worth about 50 billion dollars. His salary is $100,000 a year, but somehow his company only pays 17% taxes!

He then mentioned several that received the “infamous” bail out. He called Citigroup “The Big Baby.” Their assets are well over 4 billion; yet, they received 2.5 trillion in bail out money.

He concluded that something had to be done---it is going to be a “give” and “take.” Then I think he quoted someone who said, “If the government is serving people,” then taxes have to be raised!

Go Back

Last Week at Rotary by Joe H. Alcorta
July 1, 2011

Pres. Mike Schweikhard rang the bell for the last time as president and the weekly Abilene Rotary meeting got underway. C.G. Gray said the prayer, and Michael Thornton led the singing and the pledge to the flag.

Bob Kuykendall did a good job of introducing guests. Kim Bosher did Dealing for Dollars. Kent Brown was today’s winner and he gave Rotarians a scare a he drew the Ace….of hearts! The pot now stands at $385.00.

The following Rotarians had Sunshine Moments:

---Richard Rolison said his wife was beginning her “honeymoon” trip next week, and she said Richard could come along if he behaves.

---Donna Albus all dressed up in red, white, and blue as a “loyal American Patriotic,” expressed that she indeed was proud to be a Rotarian and an American!

---C.G. Gray said he and his bride have celebrated sixty years of marriage!

---Right behind C.G. was Spike Harris who said spouse Betty has put up with him for 64 years!

---Randy Smith was excited about becoming a grandpa! Congratulations Randy!

---Peter Agnell was announcing a free dinner of appreciation on July 21st, for all volunteers with the Salvation Army. Volunteers are to call Peter or James Parrish.

---Raymond Blasingame bragged on Kayla Christianson, and also bragged on his son who is returning to Joplin, Missouri with more supplies for the needed.

---Laura McAdams put in 12 quarter for each Little League baseball player who is playing with the All Stars at the end of the baseball season.

---Bob Hunter was asking Rotarians to participate by helping a former exchange student who attended Jim Ned from Brazil who will be attending Abilene Christian this fall. Bob said the student will need around $5,000.00.

---Bruce Bixby, in a sporting event, gave his player (opponent) a back-eye!

Since this was the last time for Mike to preside, the president gave a brief report on what took place this last year. He did this by bragging on his board members, committee people, and Rotary individuals who had a part in this year’s activities.

He especially bragged on the Rotary directory. He gave a lot of credit to Kayla Christianson, Peter Agnell, Marty Pothier, and Mary Beth Kilgore. He thanked Heather Lam and Barbara Rollins for putting the Rotarian together.

He gave Jennifer Kent a lot of credit for the success of Taste of Abilene. Betty Hukill was in charge of distributing the funds in forms of grants to several non-profits.

Pres. Mike said around $2,000 were raised with the flag project. He mentioned how ironic it were that two members who we lost this year were great supporters of the flag project---David Stubbeman and Buzz Rehm.

He expressed appreciation to Erik Johnson for the success of the Disc Golf tournament.

Mike expressed appreciation to Kayla Christianson for accepting the president-elect position when Jay Hobbs moved out of town; and that Kent Brown had accepted the position to president-elect.

Last but not least thanks went to Ed Brokaw, Dave Boyll, and Bob Hunter for the success of the polio banquet benefit held here in Abilene which raised $65,000.

Craig Haterius and his committee received praise also for bringing in 11 new members. The downside to that was that we “lost” 13 members. Mike also praised six Rotarians who are already Paul Harris Fellows and who have contributed an addition $1,000 to the Foundation.

….And Mike said we had contributed $123.00 for the annual Rotary International float which can be seen on New Year’s Day, The Rose Bowl Parade, in Pasadena California.

Then there was a surprise at the end….Mike introduced “The Rotarian of the Year.” But, hey, wait a minute; it was not one Rotarian, but T-R-E-S-! (Three!). Yes, sir, Frank Dlugas, Peter Agnell, and Mary Beth Kilgore. When executive director David Stubbeman suddenly died, Frank, Peter, and Mary Beth kept the club going...and more. Thanks Frank, Peter, and Mary Beth!!!!

Then Pres. Mike passed the baton to incoming president Kayla Christianson. Kayla is our third female president. Kayla, in brief, said her presidency will focus on communication and education.

She stressed that she wants the community to know about the Abilene Rotary Club; and inform them that Taste of Abilene is a Rotary event. She also challenged Rotarians to ask every week, “Who do I want to sit next to me?” In other words, work hard in attracting more members.

Okay, Rotarians, let’s get to work! Next week’s program is “Stepping out of your comfort zone” by Gary Jamison.

Go Back

Last Week at Rotary by Joe H. Alcorta
July 8, 2011

New president Kayla Christianson rang the bell and the weekly meeting of The Downtown Abilene Rotary Club got underway. Yours truly (Joe Alcorta) said the prayer. Michael Thornton led the singing and the pledge to the flag. Randy Smith did a good job of introducing guests.

Kelly Thompson did Dealing for Dollars. Forty-four tickets were sold today and the pot now stands at $412.00. Today’s $20.00 was Charlie Kitchell.

The following Rotarians had Sunshine Moments:

---Donna Albus was promoting the upcoming event of Randy Travis for the West TX Rehab.

---Turner Cariker was showing appreciation for a couple of female who helped with putting up the flags (Kelly Thompson, and…).

---J.T. Box said he was throwing in a couple of dollars to encourage everyone to go to the city animal control and adopt a “friend.”

---Francine Carraro was briefly reporting she had been to Yellow Stone Nat. Park.

---“New returnee Rotarian” Don Drennan reporting his granddaughter attending ACU and the granddaughter wondering if there was a Hispanic on campus that could teacher her new language.

---Your truly (Joe H. Alcorta) reporting on his newest book, From the Cotton Fields to a College Professor. Hardin-Simmons bookstore has them to sell.

---Bob Hunter thanked everyone who has contributed for the scholarship of Lucas Costa of Sao Paulo, Brazil, who will be attending Abilene Christian. Lucas is a former exchange student.

Newly President Kayla Christianson was the Rotarian of the Week. Congratulations, Kayla, we are proud of you.

Myra Dean, chairperson of the day introduced speaker Gary Jamison. Gary came all the way from Odessa, Texas. He served a term in Vietnam and then work in the sheet metal business here in Abilene.

Gary began by using our very own Rotarian Bill Core (an Aggie graduate) as a good positive role model. Gary said for years he wanted to do something special, maybe something funny. Gary discovered that Bill had ridden his bicycle all the way from the Canadian border all the way to Abilene. Gary asked himself, can I get in shape and do something like that? He said he realized he needed courage! Where do you get courage, he asked?

He began to have conversation with Bill. Our Rotarian suggested that Gary should find something that he likes and then try to “get out of the comfort zone.” In other words, get out and do something! So Gary attended some seminars and conference for comedians.

Of course, like most people, Gary kept saying, “I was afraid of what people might think of me.”

Gary says, comedians try to see life in a different way. They try to find humor in life’s experience.

The speaker poked fun at himself saying technology was too fast for him. He said he was on “Facebook,” but couldn’t hold on to it. He said he purchased a “GPS” and in telling him direction, the voice finally got tired and told Gary, “Why don’t you stop and ask for directions?”

The speaker, a close friend of Myra Dean and Donna Albus used these two ladies as role models. He modeled a hat to show the influence of Donna. He told Rotarians that Myra grew up being ADD

(Attention deficit disorder), and Myra thought it meant All Damn Day.

In conclusion and the surprise of the day, the speaker said that he was so pleased with clubs such as The Abilene Rotary club that he was asking for an application.

The speaker was funny and Rotarians had a good time laughing. Thanks, Myra for bringing him our way. “Laughter is good medicine.”

There was to be a Rotary board meeting right after the program. Next week, Jennilee Latimer from The Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau will be the speaker.

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Last Week at Rotary by Joe H. Alcorta
July 29, 2011

Pres. Kayla Christianson rang the bell and the weekly meeting of The Abilene Downtown Rotary Club got underway. Malcolm Coco said the prayer. Betty Hukill led the singing and the pledge to the flag. Myra Dean did a great job of introducing guests. Your truly introduced three sisters of mine: Sarah, Martha, and Luisa.

Peter Agnell had a short time to explain “Dealing for Dollars.” Peter did a great job. Mary Beth Kilgore did Dealing for Dollars. Mary Beth said 44 tickets were sold today and that the pot now stands at $473.00. Today’s $10 winner was Kelly Thompson by drawing the three of Spades.

The following Rotarians had Sunshine Moments:

---Paul Lenker put in a few dollars to brag on his two-week old granddaughter. Congratulations, Paul.

---Donna Albus wanted to brag on a few Rotarians that were responsible for some good programs during the year. She mentioned Fred Lee Hughes, Bob Hunter, and Betty Hukill. She also gave a summary of the different programs.

---Immediate Past President Mike Schweikhard put in a couple of dollars to correct Donna Albus in saying that today was not the last program….next week we will have another one!

---Malcolm Coco announced the upcoming 2011 HR Summit at Hunter Welcome Center on August 16th.

---Barbara Rollins was announcing one of her latest books (Sorry Barbara, I missed the title)

Pres. Kayla recognized a few birthday people: Steve Abel, Bruce Bixby, Gary Glenn, Kyle Krebs, and Karen Hines. Rotarians sang Happy Birthday to these Rotarians.

Francine Carraro was recognized by the president as Rotarian of the week. Congratulations Francine.

Pres. Kayla pointed out our new Rotary banner for this year. The prexy was not sure of the design or what it is. Any ideas anyone?

Chairman of the day was Paul Lenker who introduced Jay Moore, speaker of the day. Since Jay was going to speak about auto racing, Paul gave a little history when our club did the racing project for about 10 years in the 90’s. Paul served as the first president of Abilene Motor Sports Inc.

Jay Moore is an Abilene High School history teacher, and a busy researcher and documenter of local history. His “History in Plain Sight,” video series aims to give resident of Abilene and Taylor Country a deeper appreciation of place.

Jay’s talk centered around Rose Park. In the old days it was known as Fair Park and then West Inn Park. In 1914 the West Inn Park made a deal for the Fair to be in its grounds. D. H. Jefferies was the man who introduced car racing in West Inn Park. Before the car racing there was horse racing. The banked oval dirt track for car racing measured about six-tenths of a mile for one lap. Jay showed a brief video that showed a parade on Pine Street in 1920.

The auto race became a Fourth of July activity. Mr. Jefferies worked hard to bring outstanding racers to Abilene. Eddie Hearne from California who had won twice the Indianapolis 500 was one of the Abilene racers. The other well-known driver was Frank Lockhart who also had won the Indianapolis 500.

Jay said the population in Abilene around 1926 was around 24,000. The fans that came to see the auto race in 1926 numbered around 10,000! Frank Lockhart has the record for the 30 mile race in a time of 28 minutes, 28 seconds.

The Depression in 1929 was what killed the auto racing. People just could not afford it. A Polo team from Abilene was formed and there were some matches which they won. Mr. Jefferies died in 1956. Much credit was given to this man for he truly loved Abilene and was willing to work hard to put Abilene on the map.

It was a good program! Thanks Jay, for coming our way.

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Last Week at Rotary by Joe H. Alcorta
August 5, 2011

Pres. Kayla Christianson rang the bell and the weekly Abilene Downtown Rotary Club got underway. Bruce Lampert said the prayer. Michael Thornton led the singing and the pledge to the flag. Dave Boyll, as usual, did a great job of introducing guests.

Donna Albus did Dealing for Dollars. Guess what? It J.T. Box who had the lucky ticket, but he saved Rotarians by not pulling the Ace of Spades! Thanks J.T. The pot now stands at $491.00. There were two t-shirts won in a drawing by Morris Baker and Bob Test. Fred Lee Hughes won a cap! Congratulations, men!

The following people had Sunshine moments:

---Heather Lamb was happy to report she has become a Big Sister in the Big Brother Big Sister program.

---Barbara Rollins was happily promoting one more of her company’s books. Congratulations, Barbara!

---Raymond Blasingame made this scribe happy as he reported, “I have read Joe Alcorta’s book and my name is in it.” Thanks Raymond!

---Bob Hunter was happy to report that Rotarians had contributed $3,000 for the scholarship of Lucas Costa of Sao Paulo, Brazil, who will be attending Abilene Christian this fall. Lucas is a former Abilene Rotary Exchange Student. Bob wanted to say “Thanks Rotarians for helping out!”

Pres. Kayla had the honor of introducing a new Rotarian by the name of Gary. Gary grew up in Odessa, Texas, and then moved to Austin, and then to Abilene in 1979. Gary is a heater and air conditioner contractor. Let us welcome Gary to our club and make him feel at home.

Pres. Kayla introduced Steve Keenum who was the speaker. Steve is a former Hardin-Simmons, and McMurry coach. He now serves as Area Director of the big country Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Steve started out by stating the mission of Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA): “Our mission is to present to athletes and coaches and all whom they influence, the challenge and adventure of receiving Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord, serving Him in their relationship and in the fellowship of the church.”

Steve showed a video explaining a little history when FCA got started. The first meeting was in 1954 in the state of Colorado. From there is spread to all over the United States. The Campus Ministry is initiated and led by student-athletes and coaches on junior high, high school and college campuses. Steve explained a little of the FCA activities. The organization provides the annual All-Star Football Classic here at Shotwell Stadium; Fields of Faith where athletes give their testimony; personal Huddles on individual campuses; and Camps

Steve gave several testimonies as how FCA has touched the lives of many young people and these young people have touched the lives of hundreds. Steve said the organization needs to multiply itself in sharing the Gospel with all peoples. Steve stressed the idea of making friends with people so then they could share the Gospel.

Steve said FCA needs men and women to volunteer to help with individual athletes and perhaps to contribute $20.00 or $100 a month. He also stressed he needed more churches to be involved.

The FCA will have a golf fund raising project next weekend at Diamond Back. So, Rotarians, let us support this tournament to give a helping hand to the FCA. It was a good program! Thanks Steve for coming our way!

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Last Week at Rotary by Joe H. Alcorta
August 19, 2011

Pres. Kayla Christianson rang the bell and the weekly meeting of the Downtown Abilene Rotary Club got underway. Raymond Blasingame said the prayer. �Jolly� Jim Tredennick led the singing and the prayer. Jim actually had Rotarians doing a �rain dance song� in honor of our speaker. New Rotarian, Jesse Coulter did a good job of introducing guests.

Dealing for dollars was done by Mary Beth Kilgore. Mary Beth said 52 tickets were sold today, so the pot is up to $529.00. Okay, Rotarians, who is going to take it all? Today winner was Donna Dougherty.

The following Rotarians had Sunshine Moments: (Rotarians sharing a sunshine moment are to contribute to the Rotary Foundation.

---Myra Dean, a regular sunshine moment presenter, shared with Rotarians that Rotarian Bob Hunter had open heart surgery. But, she was really �telling� on Bob that he was told not to answer the phone in his room when left along. Bob did not answer the phone; he just made a few calls! That is Bob!

---Gary Glenn was bragging on his �retired wife� from the Abilene Police Department. His wife served for twenty years. His wife, present, received a deserved applause from the audience. ---Spike Harris was revealing his young age of 89! He said he would be sending a check to the Rotary Foundation.

---Jim Aneff (from Southwest Rotary) was sharing modern technology. He said he saw a golfer outside with a remote control moving his golf bag cart right along! Jim, said, �Before lone, they will have robot to do the swinging! Not a bad idea!!

Pres. Kayla announced that Abilene�s Rotary Youth Exchange student from Slovakia has arrived. His name is Roland JAS, and he will be attending Wylie High School. He will be staying with Roberto and Patricia Aguirre (former president of Southwest Rotary). A host family is needed for next semester where Roland will be our responsibility.

Michael Thornton made a presentation of a need for our club to purchase a projector, speaker, sound system, the stand,---the works! The cost is around $1,500.00. The hat was passed around and about $500.00 was collected. Congratulations, Rotarians!! After seeing and �hearing� the video the speaker presented, Rotarians are now sure we need a new sound system. (Don�t ask this writer what Phil Collins said in the video---I could not hear it!!!)

Francine Carraro, chairperson for the day presented Dr. Don Frazier, history professor at McMurry University. Dr. Frazier, a local well know historian has been at McMurry for 15 years. He has his Master�s and Ph.D. degree from Texas Christian University. He has written several books and has received several awards and honors during his stay at McMurry.

Dr. Frazier was sharing a �new project� he has undertaken with world-known Phil Collins who is an Alamo History Buff. On the video, that few people could hear, Phil Collins shared some words of wisdom about his interest and collection on the Alamo. Dr. Frazier then showed a few artifacts which belong to Mr. Collins. Rotarians saw Jim Bowie�s knife; David Crockett�s ammunition pouch; a Mexican hand grenade; and some papers and signature of famous people who dealt with the Alamo.

Dr. Frazier shared a story about Stephen F. Austin who went to Mexico to negotiate. Austin was put in jail in Saltillo. A letter which Austin writes to the Alamo people is one of the possessions of Mr. Collins.

The big news is that Dr. Frazier will lead in the publication of a book which will have all of Mr. Collins possessions regarding the Alamo. Not only that but stories related to the Alamo. The crowd was very excited and asked many questions. The cost of the book? Around $140.00! The book is to be out next April, 2012.

Good program! Dr. Frazier, come back to see us.

Next week, Rotarians will hear Heidi J. Kelley, executive director of the Abilene Philharmonic.

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Last Week at Rotary by Joe H. Alcorta
September 2, 2011

Pres. Kayla Christianson rang the bell and the weekly Downtown Rotary Club meeting got underway. Malcolm Coco said the prayer. Michael Thornton led the singing and the pledge to the flag. Cindy Haley did a good job of introducing guests.

Jim Tredennick did Dealing for Dollars. Jim said 43 tickets were sold and that the pot now stands at $575.00. Today’s $10 winner was Myra Dean.

The following Rotarians had Sunshine Moments:

---Betty Hukill was grateful Bob Hunter was present after surgery.

---Raymond Blasingame was promoting for Rotarians to volunteer reading at Jane Long Elementary.

Pres. Kayla recognized Raymond Blasingame as the Rotarian of the Week. Congratulations, Raymond! Pres. Kayla also introduced a new member: Sarah Lazarowitz. Sarah is a graduate of Abilene Christian, and she even admitted she had Malcolm Coco as a professor! She is married but no children. She works as education manager for Jr. Achievement.

Sarah, welcome to Rotary. Now, Rotarians, introduce yourselves to Sarah, and make her feel welcome!

It was announce that there will be Membership Seminar on Saturday, Sept 10, in Mineral Wells. Gov. Elect Hollis Lackey will be bringing in specialist so to talk about recruitment and retaining members. Rotarians are encouraged to attend.

Pres. Kayla announced that her hubby, David, was video-taping today’s program. If anyone wants a video, you can contact Kayla.

Speaker of the day was Tom Perini, owner of Perini Ranch Steakhouse in Buffalo Gap, Texas.

Recently Tom was featured on the front cover of Texas Monthly! Nice going, Tom, we are very proud of you! Tom was at Rotary today to share his experience of his visit to the White House on that “infamous” date, September 11, 2001.

When Mr. George W. Bush was governor of Texas, he befriended Tom Perini. At different times Tom and crew had provided those delicious steaks for Gov. Bush and his staff in Crawford, Texas. So…when Gov. Bush became President Bush, the President asked Tom to come to the White House and serve a “Texas Meal”--Steak and all the trimmings. The President liked the Tenderloin steaks.

Tom shared how he and his wife Lisa were invited to the White House, in preparation for the “Big Dinner.” They slept in the Lincoln room. When they return to Buffalo Gap, they could tell no one that they were going to cater dinner for the President and his staff! Anywhere they left Abilene on September 9th. In Washington they were staying at the Madison Hotel.

Then Tom begins to describe what happened around Washington after the two planes had hit the twin towers in New York. Tom heard the F16s circling around D.C., and everyone was told to run away from the White House. There was a lot of uncertainty, to say the least.

In conclusion, among the commotion, Pres. Bush probably saw Tom Perini outside on the lawn, and he leaves the Pres. of France waiting on the phone while he goes and talks to Tom. Tom tells the President, “I am sorry we could not serve your staff.” President Bush says, “I know, but I am not going to let these people change the way we live our lives.”

As the President was leaving, Tom told Pres. Bush: “We will be praying for you.” The President answers, “Thank you, I will need all those I can get!”

A year later Tom and his crew did return and served that Texas meal to the President and his staff.

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Last Week at Rotary by Joe H. Alcorta
September 9, 2011

Pres. Kayla Christianson rang the bell and the weekly meeting of the Downtown Abilene Rotary Club got underway. Bob Kuykendall announced that Spike Harris wife had fallen and needed our prayers. Also, Bob’s wife is facing some medical issues. Let’s keep these two ladies and their husbands in our prayers.

Dave Boyll said the prayer. Betty Hukill led the singing and the prayer. Fred Lee Hughes, as always, did a great job of introducing several guests. Among one of those guests was the son of Bob Hunter from New York City! Ms. Rose Caballero is now a regular in our club. Rose is working with Cisco’s nursing program; she is from Corpus Christi. Fred Lee also mentioned that it now has been a year since we lost a great Rotarian, David Stubbeman. Fred Lee asked for prayer for wife Sue and other family members.

Dick Burton did Dealing for Dollars. Today’s $10 winner was Jennifer Kent. And, the pot now stands at over $600.00! Okay, Rotarians, who is going to hit the jackpot?

Happy birthday was sung to the following Rotarians: Betty Hukill, Turner Cariker, and Riley Griffith. (Editor’s note: sorry, if I missed your birthday.)

The following Rotarians had Sunshine Moments:

---Turner Cariker was throwing a few bucks in appreciation to Rotarians who have helped in putting out the American Flag.

---Visiting Rotarian Worth Moutray paid to announce lessons in “square dancing!” Lessons are on Monday and Thursday at 7:00 p.m. For more information check out the web site: DanceAbilene.com.

---Betty Hukill announced a coming performance at the Paramount Theater.

Pres. Kayla recognized Rotarian of the Week: Victoria Stevenson. Congratulations, Victoria!

Kayla also announced a membership meeting at Mineral Wells this coming Saturday.

Chairperson of the day was Francine Carraro who introduced Lt. Col. Debra Ann Notturno-Strong who was our speaker. Lt. Col. Strong was here to speak about September 11, 2001. Lt. Col. Strong graduated from pharmacy school; and she entered the military in 1987. She has been stationed in Las Vegas, Philadelphia, Florida, San Antonio, and Dyess Air Force Base. She and her husband have retired and they live in Tuscola.

Lt. Col. Strong through videos shared with Rotarians what happened in New York City ten years ago, and what has happened since, and where the American public is now. She said at the time terrorists hit, Americans had a feeling of fear, horror, and disbelief. The American public came together and we saw pride, kinship, compassion, prayer, and honor in being an American. We had a surge of patriotism. We had an increase in volunteerism for military service.

After the terrorists hit the two New York City towers, America mourned, and the world cried with us. World leaders shared our hurt.

This is what has happened since 9-11-01: the death of Osama Bin Laden, the war in Iraq, the war in Afghanistan, and many bombings in others places. Now increased hassles at airports; strangers going through your luggage, “racial” profiling and terrorist not at the forefront---only comes once a year!

For military personnel, the war on terror rages on with no end in sight. There are many deployments; there are non-traditional ground wars without boundaries; casualties continue to rise; suicides are an on upward trend; and the military continues to lose people.

And Lt. Col. Strong concluded by saying that freedom comes with a price. Since 9-11-01 the military has lost over 6,000 soldiers. Some soldiers suffer in silence and literally the soldier gives the American public a blank check in serving our country.

She concluded by showing a very touching video of many fallen soldiers and their families mourning at their caskets draped with the American flag. The video ends with a Scripture, John 15: 13—“Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.”

Great program!

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Last Week at Rotary by Joe H. Alcorta
September 16, 2011

Pres. Kayla Christianson rang the bell and the weekly meeting of the Abilene Downtown Rotary Club got underway. The prayer was led a past president, Ed Brokaw. Barbra Rollins led the singing and the pledge to the flag. Richard Rolison did an excellent job of introducing several guests.

Richard Burton did Dealing for Dollars. Raymond Blasingame gave everyone a scare as he drew the Ace of�Clubs! Nearly, nearly! The pot now stands at $624.00.

The following Rotarians had Sunshine Moments:
---Richard Rolison said he was thankful he received a �10� in the introduction of guest; and he was also taking the opportunity to let Rotarians that this is the 64 year anniversary of The Air Force.
---Raymond Blasingame contributed $2 to announce about the opportunity of participating in Rotary Reads at Jane Long Elementary.
---Jennifer Kent was announcing October 6th as the day where her Mother Judy was participating in a fund raiser for cancer research.
---Dave Christianson, hubby of Pres. Kayla, was also promoting a fund raiser and tickets cost $12.50, and a movie will be shown about a woman who regains her sight (based on a true story).
---Barbara Rollins was promoting her books. She says 13 of them have her name!
---Jim Aneff, Southwest Rotary member, announced that he had the opportunity to be around our two exchange students. He also asked Rotarians to take time to spend time with these two students. He also promoted a New York City concert where his daughter-in-law is participating.
---Francine Carraro went to the microphone and said, �Feliz Diez y Seis!.� In case you did not understand it, she said �Happy Sixteenth!� That was in reference to Mexico�s Independence Day on September 16th. ---Eric Johnson promoted the Mayor�s third Golf Disc Cup coming up on October 15th. Eric said some sponsors are still needed.

Assistant District Governor Dave Boyll announced that our District Governor, Sharon Miles, will be visiting our club this coming Friday, September 23rd. Make an effort to be here. There will also be a Rotary Foundation Seminar on Saturday, September 24th at Brookhollow Christian Church. Rotarians need to let Dave know is you are planning on attending.

Craig Haterius made an announcement regarding the Membership Conference he attended in Mineral Well last weekend. He was asking Rotarians to invited a guest and encourage them to join with us.

Heather Lamb was chairperson and she introduced Dave Hogan who was our speaker. Dave is an instructor of Journalism and Mass Communication at Abilene Christian University, and he also works for First Financial Bank. Dave and his wife have two daughters. He also has worked as a newspaper reporter and is a stock broker. He is a former Rotarian and is a Paul Harris Fellow.

Dave was sharing with Rotarians about advertising in Social Media. Dave says we have come a long way in technology. Today we have computers, I Pads, and smart phones, etc. He started by saying that most people now do not go to the �yellow pages,� rather they �Google it!�

Dave shared several reasons why business people should use the Social Media. He used �Facebook� as an example of the Social Media. 1) Dave said many customers are �hanging out� in the social media. There is a huge audience.
2) Social Media can establish a deeper sense of �community,� and �relationships.� He gave the example of the advertisement of Starbuck�s coffee.
3) Social Media is cost effective compared with direct mail or the traditional advertisement.
Dave said that Abilene Christian University and First Financial Bank use Facebook.
Dave then gave several suggestions if a person or a business does use Facebook or LinkedIn.
Some of these were: Share photos, videos, advertise, post often, and keep up to date.
After Dave�s presentation there were several good questions from Rotarians.

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Last Week at Rotary by Joe H. Alcorta
September 23, 2011

Congratulations Rotarians! You acted very nicely in receiving our District (No. 5790) Rotary Governor, Sharron Miles. She was very complimentary about our club! (I wonder what she told our Rotary board?)

Pres. Kayla Christianson rang the bell and the weekly meeting of The Downtown Rotary Club got underway. Steve Abel said the prayer. Michael Thornton led the singing and the pledge to the flag. Richard Rolison did a good job of introducing guests.

Betty Hukill did Dealing for Dollars. Thirty tickets were sold today, so the pot now stands at $626.00. Today�s $10 winner was John Harris; he drew the two of Spades.

Pres. Kayla recognized Sarah Lararowitz as the Rotarian of the week.

District Governor Sharon Miles recognized our president Kayla Christianson for having attended PETS. The Governor had several nice things to say about Kayla. The DG also recognized Myra Dean as an outstanding Rotarian who had been recommended by Pres. Kayla. And the Gov. also recognized Johan Green declaring her a Paul Harris Fellow. Congratulations Kayla, Myra, and Johan.

DG Sharon started her speech by showing a video of an Olympic runner in the 1992 Barcelona, Spain competition. A runner fell with an injury. He got up limping and finished the race. The Governor compared this runner to Rotarians who are also known as champions! Rotarians start a race (project, event) and they complete it. It takes work and dedication to finish the race! She also added that champions had mental toughness.

She referred to our RI motto for this year: �Reach Within to Embrace Humanity.� She said any project Rotarians could do to strengthen the family would be a well worthwhile project. She also talked about continuity and change.

She said the core values of RI are: 1) leadership, 2) service, 3) fellowship, 4) diversity, and 5) ethics. She said she had seen these core values in our club. Thanks, Governor!

Gov. Sharron shared her goals for the year: 1) increase membership, more Rotary clubs, 2) increase giving to the Rotary Foundation, 3) plant trees, 4) �Vision Up� (eye glasses for children in Haiti), and 5) raise $120,000 to end Polio now.

She then mentioned several projects that are yearly projects for Rotary Clubs, and that she had noticed that our clubs participates in many of these. The ones she mentioned were: RYLA, the Four-Way Speech contest, Group Study Exchange, Wheelchairs for Mexico, and blood drives.

The Gov. announced the Regional Foundation Seminar which will take place on October 29 and 30 at First Christian Church. She also showed several pictures which Pres. Kayla had sent here in which Rotarians were at work.

She concluded by saying, �Someone gave you a gift by inviting you to join Rotary. Pass that gift to other men and women who would be good Rotarians.� She added, �Leave a legacy to someone.� She then called on several Rotarians and asked them why they joined and had stayed in Rotary. Several Rotarians had some excellent answers!

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Last Week at Rotary by Joe H. Alcorta
September 30, 2011

Pres. Kayla Christianson rang the bell and the weekly Abilene Downtown Rotary club got underway. Pres. Kayla gave Rotarians a good report on the recent visit of our DG Sharon Miles. Thanks Kayla, you made us look good!

John Harris said the prayer. Morris Baker, freshly returned from Washington D.C., said he felt very patriotic and he led in the singing and the pledge to the flag. Richard Rolison is becoming a pro at introducing guests. He did an excellent job. One guest was our Abilene exchange student who is attending Wylie High School.

Dick Burton did Dealing for Dollars. The pot now stands at $668.00. Today’s $10 winner was Eric Thomas.

The following Rotarians had Sunshine Moments:

---Richard Rolison put in his money to announce that next week; October 6-8 is going to be Fall Clean Up for Abilene. So, Rotarians, clean your closets and garages and bring those old tires!

---Morris Baker explained his trip to Washington, D.C. He was attending the 50th Anniversary of The Peace Corps. Morris said more than 5,000 volunteers gathered for this occasion. In case you don’t know Morris served a few years ago. Thanks, Morris!

---Raymond Blasingame as usual, gave Rotary Read a plug. Raymond said: “I am a Rotary Reader, you can too!” Thanks Raymond for reading for Jane Long students.

---Betty Hukill was asking Rotarians to invite children ages 8 through 14 to try out for the upcoming show, Jungle Book.

Pres. Kayla announced Frank Dlugas as the Rotarian of the Week. We all know that Frank is a workhorse when it comes to Rotary work. Frank, thanks for all you do for Rotary.

Francine Carraro, program chairperson, thanked several people who have helped in getting good program for Rotary. She thanked Betty, Kelley, Donna, Barbara, and Heather. She asked Rotarians to suggest programs for Rotary and that the committee would follow up.

Pres. Kayla welcomed back a former Rotarian, Jerry Strator. Okay, Rotarians, introduce yourselves to Jerry and make him feel welcome!

Our exchange student Roland went to the podium and said a few words about his experience here in the United States. He said he was 17 years old, and attending Wylie High School, and that he likes all the food. He also said, “I like America.” He then said he had broken his finger while “sacking the quarterback.”

Pres. Kayla asked Rotarians that if you wanted to get rid of your Rotary magazines to give them to Craig Haterius so he can share them with new members.

Bruce Lampert, chairman of the day, introduced Leigh Ann Fray, Executive Director of the Noah Project. Leigh Ann came to the Noah Project in 2009. She and her husband have two adult children. They come from a very small town so she thinks Abilene is big. She added, “We think Abilene is beautiful with lots of trees!”

She said the Noah Project deals with victims of family violence. She added that 90% are battered women, but they also treat battered men, and children, ages12-17.

Her first story was about an 82-year-old man who came from protection from his family. His children had taken over his home and finances. With the Noah Project’s help, the man was able to move back safely into his home.

The second story was a 16 year old boy who was referred to by a local minister. The boy, as he was talking to Leigh Ann, told her: “I am a good kid; I just need someone in Abilene to believe in me.”

With time and counseling he was placed at Hendrick Home for Children where he is attending school and has already received several offers for scholarships to attend a university.

Another story was about a young mother who had hired a lawyer, and after a court procedure, the husband’s lawyer got the upper hand. She came crying to the center and was lost as to what to do. With help, she was able to overcome and begin a new life.

Leigh Ann said that many women face tremendous hurdles when they try to get their lives together. Life is not easy for them.

The Noah Project gets its funding mainly from the Health and Human Service, the United Way, and private donations. They also have some fund raisers. They are anxiously waiting for their new building to be completed at Texas Avenue.

In the question and answer time, she said that family violence occurs with the rich and the poor, and all races. She was also very thankful to the Abilene Police and the Taylor County Officers who are always ready at a phone call notice. She says many officers have lost their lives in responding to family violence.

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Last Week at Rotary by Joe H. Alcorta
October 21, 2011

Pres. Kayla Christianson rang the bell and the weekly meeting of The Downtown Abilene Rotary Club got underway. The prayer was said by Malcolm Coco. Barbara Rollins led the singing and the pledge to the flag. Immediate past President Mike Schweikhard did a good job of introducing several guests.

Kelly Thompson did Dealing for Dollars. Today’s $10 winner was Tim Yandell. The pot is up to $131.00 since Donna Albus took the pot last week. Donna grabbed $698.00! Drawing for two tickets to the Tumbleweed Storytelling Festival, October 21, 22, were won by Donna Albus!! She quickly withdrew and another person won. Thanks Donna!

The following Rotarians had Sunshine Moments:

---Turner Cariker was praising Jim Bennington and himself for the ability to grow hot peppers! (The rain helped!) This scribe has benefitted from Jim’s hot peppers. I love ‘em! Thanks Jim and Turner!

---Someone described as Myra Dean’s boyfriend threw in some money to advertise the Swenson Haunted House. He plays the part of dead cowboy who had mistreated his horse!

---James Parrish, executive director of The Salvation Army was happy to announce that The Salvation Army had ended the year in the black! Congratulations, James!

---Myra Dean was announcing the 25th anniversary celebration of KACU radio. Myra and someone else, plus Pres. Kayla are to add a dollar for every Rotarian that calls in with a pledge. Okay, Rotarians, let’s support the radio station.

---Mike Dickie threw in $5 for all non-profits and then said a good word for the United Way.

Former exchange student, Lucas Acosta took the podium and expressed thanks to Bob Hunter and Rotarians for giving him the opportunity to return and study at ACU. Lucas was our exchange student in the year 2009.

A very touching video about deceased Bob Test was show to Rotarians. The video was a short report about Bob’s challenges with polio. It was very informative. Polio hit Bob at the age of four.

Bob and his Mother spent some time in Warm Springs, Georgia, learning to deal with polio. Bob said he quickly learned what “tough love,” as he was educated as to how to take care of himself.

After the video Dave Boyll encouraged Rotarians to contribute to the Rotary International Foundation which has a fund to eradicate polio all around the world. Rotary’s goal to eradicate polio is very close! Rotarians can give in honor of Bob if they desired. Contributions will be counted toward each individual’s amount toward a Paul Harris Fellow.

An announcement was made for the upcoming Tumbleweed Storytelling Festival here in Abilene on October 21 and 22. It will take place at Elks Arts Center or at the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature.

Today’s program was Dennis Gaines who will participate in the Tumbleweed Festival. Dennis is trying to keep the Cowboy culture and its heritage. Dennis was a Texas State Representative Poet at the Western Folk life Center National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Elko, Nevada for several years.

Today Dennis entertained Rotarians by singing a song “a capella” about a “dumb cowboy” named Murphy. The other “song” or “poem” was about a horse named “Boomer” that an old cowboy was trying to tame. Rotarians had a very good laugh with this fine entertainment.

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Last Week at Rotary by Joe H. Alcorta
October 28, 2011

Pres. Kayla Christianson rang the bell and the weekly Rotary meeting got underway. Your truly said the prayer. Betty Hukill led the singing and the pledge to the flag. Turner Cariker did a great job of introducing several guests.

Kelly Thompson did Dealing for Dollars. Kelly said 25 tickets were sold and that the pot now stands at $135.00. Today’s $10 winner was Francine Carraro.

The Following Rotarians had Sunshine Moments:

---Jesse Coulter was sharing that she and her hubby are moving to Round Rock, Texas, in December after she graduates with her Master’s from Hardin-Simmons. She was also asking for leads for a job in the Austin area. Good luck Jesse!

---Betty Hukill said she had fun participating in “Boo at the Zoo.”

---Jim Bennington informed Rotarians that they had missed the birthday of the “great spook,” last week. That is, someone forgot that Jim had a birthday in October. Responding to how old, he said he was close to being “an octogenarian.”

---Myra Dean was thanking everyone who took part in the radio’s anniversary and helping to reach their goal of 400 new members.

Pres. Kayla thanked those who helped with the State School Halloween party. Some Rotarians were J.T. Box, Kim Bosher, George Dawson, and Kayla.

Michael Thornton made an announcement about Rotary annual fund raiser, Taste of Abilene. Michael is the big wheel this year and he requested help! The second thing Michael mentioned was regarding our new sound system. Pres. Kayla said we are a few hundred dollars away from purchasing our projector.

Pres. Kayla also reminded Rotarian to contribute to the Rotary International polio fund in memory of Bob Test. The President also announced upcoming Rotary election. Any Rotarian willing to serve, to let her know.

Michael Thornton, chairman of the day, introduced speaker Aaron Vannoy. Aaron has a degree from ACU and Hardin-Simmons. Aaron and his wife Lisa have four dogs. Aaron is the director of The Abilene Animal Shelter. Aaron was here to share with Rotarians how the program works.

Aaron said these are some things the Abilene Animal Program deals with:

1. Local Rabies control authority

2. Animal cruelty/inhumane treatment of animals

3. Dangerous dog investigations

4. Adoption and placements of animals

5. Stray and lost pets.

Aaron explained the above services in detail, and he also gave some stories related to animal cruelty. He gave some total numbers from the years 2009, 2010, and 2011 relating to animals which had to do with returning animals to owners, placements, and adoptions. Total numbers for the year 2011 was close to 5,000!

An interested fact that Aaron shared with Rotarians was that there are really no city ordinances dealing with animals. Aaron and his people are working hard in trying to work with the Abilene City council in passing some good ordinances which will be good for the animals and their owners.

There were several good questions from Rotarians at the end of the presentation.

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Last Week at Rotary by Joe H. Alcorta
November 11, 2011

Pres. Kayla Christianson rang the bell and the weekly Rotary meeting got under way. Prayer was said by Paul Lenker. Bob Hunter led us in “God Bless America,” and the pledge to the flag. Bettsy Paige did a good job of introducing guests.

Johann Green did Dealing for Dollars. The pot is now at $185.00; 35 tickets were sold today. Today’s $10 winner was Betsy Page!

The following Rotarians had Sunshine Moments:

---Ed Brokaw was thanking Rotarians for prayers, love, and concern shared with the ACU family in the recent bus accident of ACU students in which one student was killed. Ed concluded; the sun is coming out again!

---Johann Green was thanking Turner Cariker and all his “Rotarian Compadres” who put all the American flags on special days.

---Malcolm Coco was very happy to announce that he had witnessed his 10-year-old grandson kill his first 8-pointer.

Turner Cariker with a few words honored “the oldest veteran” in our club, our beloved Spike Harris. Turner had some very nice words to say about our hero. Spike served a total of 27 years in the Navy. Four were active duty; Spike joined in 1943. Turner said that during the war, Spike was in charge of the “oil and the fuel.” In response, Spike was brief in saying, “it was an honor and pleasure to have served my country.”

In honor of Spike, Paul Lenker led the club in singing the Navy song, “Anchors Aweigh, my boys, Anchor Aweigh.”

Pres. Kayla honored veterans by asking Rotarians to stand and applaud the sitting Veterans. It was a great gesture. Thanks men and women for have served our great country.

Pres. Kayla recognized George Dawson as the Rotarian of the week. George is a great one. In his practicing days, he delivered hundreds of babies!

Our president then talked about the importance of attendance in Rotary. She said we were at 43%, ranking number 62 in our District!!! What a shame!! Come on guys, let us do better. She spent a few minutes telling different ways of making up. A very easy one is attending other Rotary meetings, or making up on-line.

Francine Carraro introduced speaker Bill Lenches, curator of Abilene’s 12th Armored Division Museum. Mr. Lenches served in the Air Force for 25 years. Bill is originally from New Jersey. Bill enjoys working with model cars and watching old movies.

Bill gave Rotarians a short history of “Veterans Day.” He gave several examples and stories of different men and women who had served in WW I, WW II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. So, the word “Veteran” better suits all men and women who have served in our military.

Bill shared several stories of men who had served in the military, and like most men and women would say that they had not really done anything for their country. But, Bill really enjoys history, and he said that he has had some real neat experiences in talking to several men who have told him their story. He shared a very interested story of George Rich who was captured by the Germans and while in prison George would clean bricks. George told Bill his story in detail.

Bill invited Rotarians to visit the 12th Armored Museum located here in Abilene. He then answered several questions including some about his badges and markings on his uniform.

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Last Week at Rotary by Joe H. Alcorta
December 2, 2011

This writer walked in late so he missed the preliminaries. Betty Hukill was presiding for current president Kayla Christianson. Don Dreenon did a great job of introducing guests.

This week’s $20.00 winner for Dealing for Dollars was Dave Boyll.

The following Rotarians or guests had Sunshine moments:

---Barbara Rollins was commenting that Kim Bosher has told her that she misses Barbara’s poems in the Rotary!

---Victoria Stevenson, a guest. This writer missed her Sunshine Moment.

---John Early, a visitor, paid a few dollars to tell a lawyer joke.

Betty announced Kim Bosher as the Rotarian of the Week. Kim is a good one. She is a hard working Rotarian. She always helps with the Halloween State School carnival, and she is always involved in Taste of Abilene.

Betty introduced Eric Anderson as our newest member. Eric is owner of Anderson’s Percussive Services. He teaches people how to play the drums.

Today was the last day to nominate Rotarians for officers. There will be three candidates for president and five for the board. Elections will be in two weeks.

The hat was passed around to contribute to RI Rose of Parade float in Pasadena, California, on January first. Rotarians contributed $124.00 for the float.

Next Saturday, December 10th is our opportunity to do some bell ringing for The Salvation Army at the Wal-Mart on the north side of town. If you ring the bell it counts as a make-up!

Heather Lam announced that there will be a reception for two exchange students. The reception is at Jim Aneff’s home, 3210 curry Lane, on December 15 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Gifts will be presented to the two students.

Presiding Betty asked that Rotarians bring “goodies” to be given away at our annual Christmas dinner.

Francine Carraro introduced our speaker Mark Young. Mark is currently the executive director of The Boys and Girls Club of Abilene. Before the Boys & Girls Club, Mark worked for six years at Abilene State School. Mark graduated from Canyon High School, and then obtained a BSC degree from Abilene Christian University. Mark and his wife Twyla have six children. Mark is also a grandpa!

Mark’s talk was about the work and operation of The Boys and Girls Club. Through the year the club might touch as many as 4,200 boys and girls! There are regularly about 1400 students who attend daily. The Club serves student s ages 5 through 18. Mark said their annual budget is around $623,000. The locations he mentioned were: Fannin Elementary School, Highland Church of Christ, and Wylie Christian School. There will be a large club in the future at the new Martinez school which is under construction.

Mark’s speech was mainly relating successful stories about the boys and girls he has met. He mentioned the stories of Cassey, Chris, Julian, and Jodie. Mark related to Rotarians that as they work with boys and girls that they try to instill that each one ask himself/herself every day, “Are we doing the right thing today?” This little motto has kept many boys and girls away from trouble!

Mark said Rotarians can volunteer to help in many ways. Two easy ones are to visit the clubs and play with the children, and the other is to help them with computers. Mark invited Rotarians to visit the clubs and then Rotarians will have a better idea as to how they can help.

Good, interesting program! Mark, thanks for coming our way.

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Last Week at Rotary by Joe H. Alcorta
December 9, 2011

Pres. Kayla Christianson rang the bell and the weekly Abilene Downtown Rotary Club got underway. The invocation was by Malcolm Coco. Michael Thornton led the singing and the pledge to the flag. Betsy Paige did a good job of introducing guests.

Kelly Thompson did Dealing for Dollars. Todays’ $20 winner was Donna Albus. The pot now stands at $248.00.

The following Rotarians had Sunshine Moments:

---Betty Hukill said she was happy that the piano man, Mike Shuler, was back in town. Call Mike for your piano entertainment. He is a good one!

---Donna Albus said the ladies had done 80 quilts to be sold at the West Texas Rehab Center. She said they will be put on line and that you are to bid several times and often! In other words, buy a quilt!!

---Doug Eichorst was promoting the food bank. He asked all Rotarians to bring some can food to the food bank located on Willis and North 14th street.

---Don Drennon was happy to report a loved one was back in Ft. Hood after a tour in the Middle East.

---Johanna Green threw a few dollars to promote her friend’s new book. (Sorry, this writer missed her name) The book is a history book which covers military family members during the years 1939—1945.

---Richard Rolison was also promoting the food bank.

---Pres. Kayla threw in a few dollars to thank people who had helped during the passing away of her grandmother. She said she felt blessed that both grandparents lived to be over 90.

---Happy Birthday was sung to J.T. Box whose birthday is on December 1. Morris Baker, Dec.9; and Jerry Strader, Dec. 12 were not present.

Yours truly introduced speaker Dr. Julian Bridges. Julian grew up in Miami, Florida and began learning and speaking some Spanish there. Later Julian studied Spanish in San Jose, Costa Rica, and Southwestern Mexico. Julian has several college degrees. He taught sociology at Hardin-Simmons for 31 years. Julian and his wife Carlota have three children: Rebecca, Debbie, and Esther. The Bridges have three grandchildren.

Julian was a member of our Rotary Club for several years and now he is a member at Southwest Club. Julian also severed as a City Councilman.

Julian’s talk today was teaching Rotarians how to pronounce Spanish names. His method is original, and is derived from the analysis of over 300,000 names selected from the telephone directories of New York City, Los Angeles, San Antonio, and Miami, where Hispanics are concentrated in large numbers. It is the hope and prayer of the author that his method will contribute to the correct pronunciation of the names of millions of children, youth, and adults in the United States and throughout the world!

Julian had a video which helped him to explain to Rotarians a few rules about the vowels and consonants in the Spanish language. The key sentence for people to memorized concerning Spanish vowels is the sentence: “FAther and Ester put the machIne in the tUna bOat” (a, e, i, u, o). Julian then explained the sounds of consonants, and the rules for pronunciation. In Spanish, every word which ends in a vowel (a, e, I, u, o), and n and s, the stress is on the next to the last syllable. The second rule is that all Spanish words ending in a consonant (except n ands), the stress is on the last syllable.

Julian then passed out a list of many Spanish names and had Rotarians practicing the pronunciation. It was a good exercise, and Rotarians seem to have enjoyed it.