Re:Purpose Rendezvous Sponsors Thank you to these incredible Savannah area businesses and individuals for sponsoring our Re:Purpose Rendezvous benefitting RePurpose Savannah on November 29! We are in awe of your support and are an integral part in our event being a huge success! •Wells & Kathleen Anderson |
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Announcements from Nov. 21 MeetingPRESIDENT UPDATE & COMMITTEE REPORTS President Jasmine Mills kicked off the meeting with the 4 way test and reminded us the following:
MEMBERSHIP: NMP: Classification Talk & Induction  Aaron Miller- sponsored by Clint Murphy and Jamie Arkins. Growing up in Catskill Mountains, Aaron participated in Rotary Exchange in HS. He considers their exchange students as brothers and is very passionate about the program! After HS, Arron joined the army. He applied to West Point and played the tuba in their band, as well as singing in the glee cub. After West Point, Aaron was stationed in Savannah. He was deployed to Bosnia for a year and eventually deployed to Kuwait and Iraq. Post-army, he went to Business School in NY. He joined a sailing team and met his wife. Their work prevented them to start a family, but they finally did and have a young son. Aaron is an avid runner and owns around 170 investment properties. CLUB:
VISITORS:
UPCOMING DATES (PROGRAMS, SERVICE, SOCIALS):
FEATURED SPEAKER: Foundation Giving Impact Panel Dr. Darron Alvord kicked off our panel via video, then Jeff Brady spoke about all the different ways to give back- time/money balance and the importance knowing what your donations go towards. He also works hard to make sure his kids foster the spirit of giving as well as staying grounded in awareness for what they have. Julie Wade mentioned that she focuses her giving locally and appreciates that she doesn’t need to worry about doing due diligence to give to Rotary because she knows Rotary is solid. She also spoke about the way the foundation gives back to our local programing. Whitney Shepherd shared that she and Josh are each Paul Harris Fellows, and also support the chapter via Green Truck Pub. She shared a few personal stories from PETs (President Elect) about how society has a lot of work to do in the world- unifying private and public sectors, countries, leaders, etc… to promote peace and equality and be part of a worldwide impact. Also mentioned a story about the local clubs getting some money back from the district conference. This lead to a large discussion and sharing of Tiny Homes Resources for Vets, which has developed in other towns, funded completely by rotary chapters. Clint Murphy does not have kids- he has made Rotary his beneficiary for his assets because of how effective they are with their funding/resources. Each dollar plugged into the Foundation is multiplied. Will Gruver tells us “to much is given, much will be expected.” He had a near death experience in 2005, and he’s grateful he had the resources to deal with mental health issues at the time. Therefore he’s incredibly passionate about Mental Health. $85/month will get you to the Paul Harris level. |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines | November 7
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Brags, Finds, and Whines | October 3
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Re:Purpose Rendezvous - Annual Service Partner Fundraiser Metropolitan Savannah Rotary presents... Re:Purpose Rendezvous fall fundraiser benefiting Re:Purpose Savannah on Wednesday, November 29 at Front Porch Improv! Get your tickets today! The early bird ticket window has already passed. Tickets are $60 on and will be $75 at the door (if any remain). Tickets include: 2 drink tickets, small bites and games by Front Porch Improv. We will also be raffling off amazing prizes. Limited seating is available! Tickets can purchased here! (Club Members can register via link in ClubRunner invitation.) Sponsored by YOU! Find out more about opportunities here. |
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Announcements from Oct. 3 MeetingPRESIDENT UPDATE & COMMITTEE REPORTS President Jasmine Mills
SERVICE:
DISTRICT EVENTS:
MEMBERSHIP:
CLUB:
UPCOMING DATES (PROGRAMS, SERVICE, SOCIALS):
RECOGNITION/AWARDS:
GUESTS/VISITORS:
FEATURED SPEAKER: Our fellow MetRotraian, Chelsea Sawyer, Emergency Preparedness Manager - Chatham Emergency Management Agency (CEMA)  Chelsea Sawyer has worked for the Chatham Emergency Management Agency (CEMA) since September 2016. Throughout her time with the agency, she has served as an Emergency Management Specialist, Emergency Management Coordinator and is now the Emergency Preparedness Manager.In this role, Chelsea serves as the lead of the Community Preparedness Division and is responsible for overseeing the agency's community outreach programs as well as managing Emergency Support Function (ESF) 6- Mass Care, ESF 8- Health and Medical, ESF 11- Food and Water, ESF 14- Public-Private Partnerships and ESF 18- Animal Services. In addition, Chelsea manages the agency's social and digital media presence, coordinates the Chatham County Disaster Faith Network, liaises with Chatham County's disaster recovery committee and supervises the Agency's volunteer workforce. Throughout her time with CEMA, Chelsea has gained a wealth of experience in disaster response and recovery communications and operations in both natural and man-made disasters such as tropical storms, hurricanes, tornadoes, ice storms and during a military plane crash. Chelsea is a Georgia Certified Emergency Manager and holds her Master's Degree in Public Administration and Policy from Virginia Tech. One of her many passions is working with government agencies as they craft crisis communication plans and develop standards for emergency messaging. This passion led her to become the Southeast United States representative on the Government Social Media Membership Council. Chelsea's love for emergency management and response is also evident in her personal life as she has served as the panel chair for the United Way of the Coastal Empire's Crisis Intervention Community Investments process and as the Disaster Response Chair for the Metropolitan Savannah Rotary Club. When she is not working or volunteering, Chelsea enjoys spending as much time as possible with her husband, Seth, and their two children. Chelsea commented that she reported to our chapter immediately after Hurricane Matthew and only after 3 weeks on the job. Hurricane Season Forecast:
So far there have been 17:
Hurricane Seasons ends Nov. 30th TV Meteorologists came up with the idea of naming storms in the 1950’s Largest threats to Life & Property:
Family Emergency Plan: Booklets available.
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Announcements from Nov. 7 MeetingPRESIDENT UPDATE & COMMITTEE REPORTS President Jasmine Mills kicked off the meeting with the 4 way test and thanked us for showing up for our off-site field trip. What a fabulous view! DISTRICT EVENTS:
CLUB:
UPCOMING DATES (PROGRAMS, SERVICE, SOCIALS):
FEATURED SPEAKER:  Dr. Carol Pride, Marine & Environmental Sciences Department Chair, Savannah State University.Lee announced that the Marine Science program has been a big success. He introduced Dr. Carol Pride, who joined the faculty of Savannah State University in 2002 and serves as chair of SSU’s Department of Marine and Environmental Sciences. Her background is in marine science and paleoceanography. Before coming to Savannah, she completed a BA in Environmental Science at Wesleyan University, a PhD at the University of South Carolina in Marine Science, a visiting professorship at the College of Charleston, and postdoctoral research at the University of California Santa Barbara. She currently mentors SSU undergraduate and graduate students in research on our local estuaries, with emphasis on the impacts of humans and climate change on these systems. Learning about nature in nature, while developing career-based skills. The program has existed since the 1980’s in an effort to integrate SSU with Armstrong. Students participate in boat, beach, and saltmarsh fieldwork, lab and analytical development, research and community outreach. Programs offered:
Nationally, black graduates earn only <2% of all marine science degrees. SSU is number one in the nation in this field. Diverse student body with more BS and MS in the field per year than UGA. (SSU has 7 faculty, UGA has 25!!) There’s a on-campus building for classes and recently a research center off campus was added to provide a home for the grad students to operate. This allows them more access to water without having to worry as much about tides. They have deep water access and wet labs to pump in water from the creek for research. Funding:
All of their research is relevant to coastal GA, including impact of sea level rising, impact on Ogeechee business, and drainage projects, light pollution on Tybee effects on sea turtles, water quality work while warehouses are being developed, dolphin science lab, bio-coustics. Outreach is very important.
She gave over 10 careers that students go to after their degree, as well as graduate schools in the southeast area (and Alaska- the biggest state in the US, right Suzanne :)) Employment record from alumna shows that 71% of their bachelor graduates and 96% of their master's graduates have documented post-graduation STEM employment. This is very impressive considering the national level is at 26%. 2 of their Sea Grant State Fellows attended a conference on Tybee and are now part of Southeast Climate Adaptation Science Center. Shed Dawson, Director of Career Services, spoke with us about his support for the student’s next steps after graduation. Learning is very hands on so that students have made the mistakes in class instead of at their first internship/job. Grant funding has dried up a bit over the years, but Title 3 gives them $7-11 Billion dollars! Leadership development is a huge focus as well. Students are required to put together all 306 events on campus (i.e. Homecoming festivities/entertainment) and this is considered extra-curricular learning, half of their student body participated in this over the past year. There are also 75 campus organizations with positions for the students to be leaders. 1890 Land Grant. Shrimping/fishing industry. Issue- Brain Drain to try to keep graduates in Savannah. Email dawsons@savannahstate.org if you have an internship opportunity you need filled. Their “stepping block” program provides context for student body background. Interim-President Cynthia Alexander was introduced- she reported this is the first time having positive growth in enrollment in the past 7 years. Focus is on recruitment, retain and graduate students. (From New Jersey originally) |
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Announcements from Sept. 19 MeetingPRESIDENT UPDATE & COMMITTEE REPORTS President Jasmine Mills
SERVICE:
DISTRICT EVENTS:
MEMBERSHIP:
CLUB:
UPCOMING DATES (PROGRAMS, SERVICE, SOCIALS):
GUESTS/VISITORS:
FEATURED SPEAKER: Shawnessey Cargile - The Front Porch, Family Engagement & Activities Coordinator  The Front Porch – Where Youth and Families Gather, is a community-based risk reduction program. Youth who are referred to The Front Porch are assessed to identify any needs, concerning behaviors or situations that may warrant intervention. The Front Porch staff will then connect youth and families with appropriate services to address those needs. Unique to Chatham County, this program believes that punitive doesn’t work in any area, restorative is the way to go. The court system, attorneys, mayors, DA officers have all come together to create this restorative program. Carol Bell shared her experiences regarding the 2 1/2 year start-up process of this organization. Impressed by how people decided to collaborate for the best of the children & their family. The majority of people handling kids in trouble are carrying gun and that doesn’t need to be the case. Julian Miller spoke up and reminded us that The Front Porch received almost 20 referrals before they even opened, two of them were by children who referred themselves. Shawnessey gave an overview of the process: from a referral to The Front Porch, youth & parent assessment, case manager involvement & referrals to agencies, follow-ups, with plans established and monitored for the next 90 days. Ultimately, families can continue to receive resources after those 90 days. One of the goals is to avoid juvenile court. The Front Porch is the only Youth MARC (Multi-Agency Resource Center) in the state of Georgia. Multi-Agency approach: Doubling down with staff from agencies – i.e. Tharros Place agent also working with The Front Porch or Shelter from the Rain placed a diaper bank at TFP. Additional resources for the community and families. Back to School Block Rock, Healing Power of Improv, Trauma Sensitive Yoga, in hour Step Team, Household Budgeting. Save The Date (STD): Elevator Mixer on Sept. 28th, 5:30pm at TFP Anne Robinson, TFP Director, spoke about the return on your investment when it comes to social service agencies. It costs $90K to incarcerate a single person for one year! Denise Grabowski mentioned that this program is invaluable. The educational outcome of this program and the resources provided is huge. Issues that the school system cannot battle on their own. What can Rotarians and other community members to do support The Front Porch? We can scan referral QR Code and share with family and youth who might need assistance or exposed to at-risk environments. Trauma, Trouble, Grades, Relationships, Mental Health, etc… TFP aims to serve the full spectrum of situations to fully support our families and youth. |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines | Sept. 19
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Announcements from Sept. 5 MeetingPRESIDENT UPDATE & COMMITTEE REPORTS President Jasmine Mills
SERVICE:
DISTRICT EVENTS:
MEMBERSHIP:
CLUB:
RECOGNITION/AWARDS:
UPCOMING DATES (PROGRAMS, SERVICE, SOCIALS):
GUESTS/VISITORS:
FEATURED SPEAKER: Bert Brantley, CEO of Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce  Bert Brantley began his tenure as President & CEO of the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce on Feb. 1, 2023 after more than two decades of service in various state government leadership positions. Bert and the world-class team at the Chamber and Visit Savannah are dedicated to ensuring economic opportunity spreads through the business community as the Savannah region enters a new era of growth and prosperity. He most recently served as Deputy Chief of Staff for the Office of Governor Brian P. Kemp. As a Senior Advisor, he managed the Communications, External Affairs, Legislative, Policy, and Constituent Services teams. Brantley also held the position of Chief Operating Officer of the Georgia Department of Economic Development, appointed to that role by Governor Nathan Deal in 2017. With more than 20 years of experience in state government, Brantley has held other roles in the Office of Governor Sonny Perdue, the Department of Driver Services, the State Road & Tollway Authority, and the Department of Transportation. Bert is married to Tonya Brantley, an elementary physical education teacher. They have two daughters, Kendall and Carson, who are both students at the University of Georgia. Bert was formerly a speech writer. He covered three points:
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Brags, Finds, and Whines - Sept. 5
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Lunch at Program Meetings Lunch at Program MeetingsWe now have a standing order with Starland Café for our 1st and 3rd Tuesday program meetings. Salads will rotate. We know how much you love the Kitchen Sink salad! Panini sandwich offerings will remain the same. Leigh always orders a few vegetarian options, but she can always order more. In an effort to reduce waste, we encourage you to please bring your own water bottle and fill up at the filtered water fountain just outside of our meeting space at the JEA. We appreciate all of Leigh's efforts in finding a solution to the ongoing saga of lunch.
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September is Membership MonthSEPTEMBER IS MEMBERSHIP MONTH - Bring guests to our 9/16 service project, our 9/19 lunch meeting, and our 9/24 social! Below is a review of our membership process from prospective member to induction: Prospective Member Process Guests interested in joining m Prospective Member Program 1. Learn about Rotary by readi 2. Prospective member attends 3. Prospective Member serves a 4. Prospective Member attends 5. Prospective Member gives a Metro Member Sponsor Responsib ○ Identify the Prospect’s co- ○ Invite Prospect to meetings, ○ Sponsors must be present at meetings and social ○ Prospects may attend hands- ○ Alert Membership Committee Chair that Prospect is interested in membership by sending headshot, application and names of both Metro Sponsors after Prospect has at ○ Communicate Board decision to Prospect and facilitate group meetings with Membership Committee. |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines - August 15
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Announcements from August 15 MeetingCOMMITTEE REPORTS President Jasmine Mills
MEMBERSHIP
SERVICE
SOCIAL
FOUNDATION
DISTRICT EVENTS:
GUESTS/VISITORS
FEATURED SPEAKER: Bridget Cross, Perinatal Health therapist  Bridget shared that she and her partner had both of their children through IVF, and mentioned her motivation for her current work was based partially on her own experience with postpartum and the day-to-day stories from her clients. The perinatal term refers to the start of the pregnancy and extends until 2 years postpartum. This includes experiences of pregnancy or infant loss, termination, and infertility. Applies to dads, partners, etc…Maternal/Perinatal mental health refer to the mental and emotional wellbeing of an individual during the perinatal period and includes depression & anxiety. Georgia Statistics:
Georgia Fund for PMH:
Goal: raise $50,000 to provide 10 fully funded therapy session to 50 perinatal mothers and parents. Applications open to anyone who has been effected by any perinatal issues in the past two years. (currently there’s a waitlist of applicants- once funding is secured, recipients are matched with a therapist to begin treatment.
Background: In November 2022, Bridget Cross launched the Georgia Fund for Perinatal Mental Health, which provides fully funded therapy sessions for moms & parents across Georgia. She has been practicing individual and family psychotherapy since 2007 and earned her Masters in Social Work with Honors from the Hunter College School of Social Work in New York. She also worked in the arts for over 15 years before becoming a therapist, and earned an MFA in Poetry from Sarah Lawrence College. Before moving to Savannah in 2015, she worked in New York City with clients from diverse racial, ethnic, socioeconomic, and spiritual backgrounds – in community mental health clinics, college counseling centers, clinical research programs, and court-based settings. She received postgraduate training from the NYU Institute for Psychoanalytic Education, and she has trained in perinatal mental health, internal family systems, somatic experiencing, trauma-informed therapy, and motivational interviewing. In 2020, she also completed a yoga teacher training program (200-hour). She currently serves on the Board of Postpartum Support International (PSI) Georgia Chapter and also volunteers as a PSI State Coordinator for the Savannah area. She is a certified Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C) provider through PSI, and in 2019, she helped form the Maternal Mental Health Collective of Savannah. |
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Announcements from August 1 MeetingCOMMITTEE REPORTS President Jasmine Mills
SERVICE Ro gave a summary of our first project with our ASP Re:Purpose Savannah on Sat., July 29. 21 members attended along with Sarah's two daughters! The next service day will be on a job site - stay tuned for details. First service committee meeting was held on Aug. 4. Contact Ro to join her committee. MEMBERSHIP
SERVICE
SOCIAL
GUESTS/VISITORS
FEATURED SPEAKER: Jessica Leigh Lebos, Author, Blogger, & All-Around Delightful Human  Jessica Leigh Lebos is a longtime weekly columnist who writes about interesting people, enchanting places, and the compelling, confounding connections in between. She is the author of two books, Savannah Sideways and the newly released The Camellia Thief & Other Tales, available at your favorite local independent bookstore and online corporate megalodon. You can find her in the bushes stalking what's in bloom by subscribing to her Substack at savannahsideways.com. Jessica has lived here since the late 90s and “married in” to Savannah via her husband, Mark. They had their children in California and then moved to Savannah. They first connected with the Savannah community at the JEA attending the Senior lunches by listening to incredible elders telling amazing stories. She knew that as a writer, she had landed in a special place. She first worked at SKIRT! Magazine, and then Connect Savannah as a weekly columnist. Her first book is called Savannah Sideways, a collection of stories from her time at Connect. She went on from there to “do a bunch of her own things” then post-COVID, she found herself confused and wondering what was going on..."farmisht" as she says. Her good friend Rubi encouraged her to start writing again. She learned about Substack, which is similar to a blog, and started writing a column there. She loved hearing other’s perspectives. This year, post-pandemic, she put together another collection called The Camellia Thief and Other Tales. She shared a passage from her own life and had us laughing at her dreams and banter with her husband. (Especially fun for those of us who know this wonderful couple.) She also incorporated Carl Jung’s teachings regarding dreams into her writing. She references countless Savannah highlights, new and old, and truly transports her reader/listener to each depicted scene. She also comments on Savannah’s growth, sprawling developments, and the dredging of the Savannah River. She also shared a story about working at a River Street Marketplace kiosk during COVID titled “Respect the River Street Hustle.” If you want to keep laughing in the face of the city deemed "a beautiful woman with a dirty face", follow Jessica Leigh Lebos' writing and you'll have a newfoudn respect for our fair Savannah. |
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Announcements from July 18 Meeting*HAPPY NEW ROTARY YEAR* COMMITTEE REPORTS President Jasmine Mills
LEGACY PROJECT
ANNUAL MEETING BUSINESS *Budget has been emailed to membership  Will Gruver swore in the incoming board Past Presidents passed the gavel to Jasmine Mills after Will Gruver bestowed her with the Rotary Robe  Cat paintings were passed on to Jasmine Mills & Kristen Crawley to “display prominently” in their place of work.  Cecilia Arango and Will Gruver were presented with presidential gavel plaques and honored our Madame Sensei Cecilia Arango with her own custom belt, crafted by the power couple of Kristen & Jake Crowley and his workshop Blue Heron Crafts MEMBERSHIP
SERVICE
SOCIAL
RECOGNITION & AWARDS Will Gruver recognized the outgoing and incoming members:
GUESTS/VISITORS
COMMITTEE FAIR Members had the opportunity to visit with different committee chairs to see where they might be interested in getting plugged in further. If you missed the meeting, reach out to any of the committee chairs to learn more about how you can serve Metro Rotary. |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines - July 18
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Announcements from June 20 Meeting*HAPPY NEW ROTARY YEAR and HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!* COMMITTEE REPORTS President Will Gruver
MEMBERSHIP
SERVICE
FOUNDATION
SOCIAL
GUESTS/VISITORS:
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Brags, Finds, and Whines - June 20
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Announcements from June 6 MeetingCOMMITTEE REPORTS President Will Gruver
MEMBERSHIP
SERVICE
FOUNDATION
SOCIAL
GUESTS/VISITORS:
FEATURED SPEAKER: Tania June Sammons, Savannah Victorian Society
Currently writing a book about the history of Citizen Advocacy. Savannah Chapter of the Victorian Society of America- our chapter is the 2nd largest in the country with around 100 members, just behind the NY Metro Chapter. Founded in 1966 in response to the train station demo in 1964. Committed to the cultural arts, education (through summer school programs, trips, tours, etc…) but open to anyone who is interested. Most meetings are held at St. John’s church on Madison Square. Sav society offers partial scholarships for the Newport School (student will be speaking on June 13th) and focus their programing on lectures, which follow the school year calendar. Coming up in September will be Andrew Nag (SCAD professor) patriot design and Russian art. National society offers study programs as well 3-4 days, includes behind the scenes tours, lectures, homes, etc… Publications focus on cultural and social history. SAVE THE DATE: SSU Event: 6:00 Sept 26th: Dr Tiya Miles- a Harvard Professor and Author to discuss her book “All that she carried: the journey of Ashley’s Sack, A Black Family Keepsake.” Incredible story about the power of objects with an incredible story. Reminder- every lecture they host includes a reception, so there’s a social element. |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines - June 6
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Announcements from May 16 MeetingCommittee ReportsPresident-Elect, Jasmine Mills
***June 20 - Will's Presidential Address and final club meeting as President!*** President Will Gruver
SERVICE
SOCIAL
GUESTS/VISITORS:
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Announcements from April 18 MeetingCommittee ReportsPresident Will Gruver
President-Elect, Jasmine Mills
DISTRICT CONFERENCE 7 Metro members attending District Conference April 28-30. Raffle and silent auction items still needed - contact Will if you have anything to contribute SERVICE & INTERACT
MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE:
LEGACY PROJECT - John Bennett will provide an update at the next meeting FOUNDATION: We are in good shape as a club in giving; please continue to give to RI Foundation! GUESTS/VISITORS:
FEATURED SPEAKER: Preston Johnson Speech Contest winners from Woodville-Tompkins  Alfred introduced his two 9th grade students, Serani and Syniah, winners from the Preston Johnson Speech Competition at Woodville Tompkins. He’s honored to continue to work with wonderful students.Syniah compared narcissistic behavior to the way we treat our world. Questioning why we continue torturing ourselves and the inability to set aside our own agenda for the better of the good. Help more, hurt less. Challenged us to act better - not just with words, but with actions. Everyone’s presence makes a difference. Every day we wake up knowing it’s possible to make or break our world. We perceive a world that deserves our best - so let’s give it to our world. Serani challenged us to see the bright side when we are inundated with the world’s problems: sexism, hate crimes, safety at school, inflation, etc. We need to find hope in the small things. She asked us what one of our a favorite moments is. Do not give energy to the negative stuff. Priceless moments slip through our hands. She challenged us to apply the 4-way test to all parts of our lives. Take the steps needed to improve our society. Go beyond waiting for a better day. Better personality/family/mindset/community will all better our world. Are you willing to take that step forward? Will presented both students with framed certificates and checks. Alfred also expressed his gratitude for our members and judges who provided feedback and assisted the students. |
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Announcements from April 4 MeetingCommittee ReportsPresident Will Gruver announced that April is Maternal & Child Health Month (Rotary International); Roastary was a success with the ever-changing Coach's Corner. President Elect, Jasmine Mills welcomes ideas for the 2023-2024 Metro Rotary year and please get involve. SERVICE & INTERACT
MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE:
FOUNDATION: We are in good shape as a club in giving; please continue to give to RI Foundation! GUESTS
FEATURED SPEAKERS: Aileen Gabbey
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Announcements from February 21 MeetingCommittee ReportsPresident Will Gruver announced that February is Peace and conflict resolution month. What can you do?
PRESIDENT REPORT
SAVE THE DATE/UPCOMING EVENTS:
SERVICE & INTERACT
  MEMBERSHIP: Katie Joyner hosting a meeting on March 1st for new members who have completed all prerequisites for membership. Sponsors and board members are invited also. Our current new member class is: Emily Doherty (Great Oaks Bank), Ashley Harsey (Savannah Ghost Pirates), Jason Usry (WJCL), and Beth Whelan (SCCPSS/Charles Ellis Montessori Academy) FOUNDATION: Josh Yates presented Lee Beckmann with his first Paul Harris Fellow award. Jeanine Roach received a PHF +1 Award. Thank you for supporting the Rotary Foundation! LEGACY PROJECT: Please provide your Metro Rotary Legacy Project Suggestions here: Click Here - reach out to John Bennett for more details PROGRAMS/SOCIAL:
GUESTS
FEATURED SPEAKER: Courtney Rawlins - President & CEO of the Greater Pooler Chamber of Commerce
Growth is occurring in all industries, especially hospitality, hotels and restaurants (Crumble Cookie, Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux, etc.), a senior living center, JC Lewis Ford is expanding, Big Shots (similar to Top Golf), and you heard correctly, Dave & Buster's. No sign of Trader Joe's yet. With the Hyundai plants and its subsidiaries coming in 2025, things will grow even more exponentially. The Pooler Chamber is instituting a forward vision for growth in several key ways: 1. Creating a Member Concierge position to enhance the membership experience, 2. by growing their social media presence and strategy (highlighting events, ribbon cuttings, etc.), 3. through a series of twice monthly digital newsletters (1st week is about chamber business and 3rd week provides resources for member businesses), 4. through fresh marketing campaigns and rebranding that highlight Pooler as a gateway to many surrounding vacation destinations and contribute to the visitor economy (the train is gone!), 5. Travel Guides, and 6. New hotel ad in the Tourism Leadership Council's guide Savannah: A Southern Journey. Courtney joined the Georgia Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. She has joined and teamed up with the Georgia Chamber of Commerce. Sharon Dupont, Director of Visitor Economy, has taken taken her role by storm. The Chamber offers an online membership directory and they provide three core networking events: 1. A.M. Chamber Chats in the mornings (quarterly), 2. BA5's (Business Afterhours) every month for business exposure, connections, and networking, and 3. Knowledge Now Luncheons each month (February - October). When asked about traffic and water concerns, Courtney advised us to pay close attention to the Pooler Mayoral and City Council campaigns this year. She is also concerned about workforce development and the need for public transportation. One thing is for sure, Courtney will keep her thumb pressed against these issues! The Greater Pooler Area Chamber of Commerce goes by the motto "While You Are Working In Your business, We Are Working For Your Business." Join today! |
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Announcements from February 7 MeetingCommittee ReportsPresident Will Gruver announced that February is Peace and conflict resolution month. What can you do?
PRESIDENT REPORT
SAVE THE DATE:
SERVICE & INTERACT
MEMBERSHIP: Send any potential applicants and head shots to Katie. March 1st is slated to be the meeting for new members who have completed all prerequisites for membership. FOUNDATION: Josh Yates presented Will Groover with a Paul Harris award. LEGACY PROJECT: John Bennett shared the suggestion form for Metro Rotary Legacy Project Suggestions (Click Here) PROGRAMS/SOCIAL Next Social-Feb 28th Midtown Grill 5:30-7:30 GUESTS
FEATURED SPEAKER: Roger Moss- Savannah Chatham County School Board President
Roger then challenged us to embrace and welcome the following: Be Inspired Be Motivated Be Uncomfortable Roger shared a story about the Savannah Children’s Choir's highly coveted paid internship ($1000/week along with room and board.) During the interview process, he would ask the interns “what have you learned from students?” Over the years, Roger has learned so much from children, especially in his role with the children’s choir. His motivation for running for School Board is the number of heartfelt, inspiring stories of children overcoming adversity and persevering factors (i.e. poverty) and embracing education to empower our youth. Having people believe in our youth makes a huge difference and it's a key part of achieving his goal of improving our public schools. Roger shared another story about a welding teacher at Woodville Tomkins who is not only teaching them a technical skill, but he's also teaching them life skills (this man became a teacher after being with larger companies for 30 years). He then mentioned a principal at Savannah High School who's been in that position for 3 years. As a former military member, she has reduced the violence statistics by over 50% and has created a new culture at that school. Next we saw an impressive video featuring a variety of programs at Woodville Tomkins, including programs in Veterinary Skills, Culinary Arts, Construction, Electrician, a Student run Credit Union, Nail technician lab/Beautician, and a Law enforcement and cyber security lab. We also learned that International Paper is partnering with Woodville Tompkins to hire skilled labor positions in an effort to organically grow their workforce. Roger likes to call this “The Public School Advantage.” Roger also told us to "get uncomfortable" by letting people that disagree with you help you grow. As a result, Roger says he’s learning how to listen more and understand that a lot of opinions and passions are based on our life experiences. True listening is not listening preparing to answer, but being present and taking it all in. Leaving politics out of it- just a human being. Challenge: Volunteers are needed as tutors & readers. Click this Link and join the army of “Roger’s Readers” Roger also mentioned that he's all about affordable housing, but also about jobs that allow people to afford housing. Savannah is attracting companies who want to come to Savannah for business. Leigh Acevedo commented that this leads to overall economic development and it will take all of us engaging in the schools as a whole to improve our community. Roger closed with an open initiation to attend the SCCPSS March meeting and any of the board meetings (meeting also available on line). He clarified that the board sets policies and priorities which determine budget allocations. He is focused on prioritizing people who work directly with kids- teachers, counselors, police. He loves buildings but cares even more about what goes on inside the building. Send any questions/feedback in advance to your district rep/board member *** PSA: know who your district rep is! |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines - February 7
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Prospective Member ProfilesPROSPECTIVE MEMBER PROFILES  Emily Doherty is the Director of Marketing for Great Oaks Bank. With six locations in Middle Georgia and Coastal Georgia, Great Oaks Bank is focused on providing excellent customer service at a fair price utilizing the latest technology. Emily is a Marketing and Development professional with 20+ years of experience building strategic marketing, business development, and fundraising programs. She has been in Savannah since the mid-nineties and graduated with a BFA in Photography from SCAD in 1999. Emily is a 2022 Graduate of Leadership Bryan, she serves on the Richmond Hill Historical Society board, and is a founding member of the Savannah Marketing Group. She was a 2017 Generation NEXT recipient presented by Business in Savannah and Savannah Magazine, which awards Savannah's rising stars of business. Emily was extremely instrumental organizing and raising funds for Friends of Statts, who hosted fundraisers and concerts to help with healthcare costs for Emily's good friend, beloved local musician and graphic artist Jason Statts. She also supports the United Way of the Coastal Empire and the Telfair Art Museum. When Emily isn't working or serving the community, she enjoys time with her husband Tim, their 9-year-old son Patrick, and their sweet rescue dog Flower.  Jason Usry is the Creative Services Director at WJCL 22 which is the ABC Network affiliate serving Southeast Georgia and South Carolina’s Low Country. He holds a Bachelor’s in Fine Arts in Mass Media Communication from Valdosta State University, as well additional certifications through the television station’s parent company Hearst Television.He is committed to making the community a better place and volunteers his time for several different local non-profits including The United Way of the Coastal Empire, America’s Second Harvest of Coastal Georgia, and The Frank Callen Boys & Girls Club.In his free time he maintains his creative edge by writing and producing podcast. He is also an award-winning, produced screenwriter.He and his wife Dru have two small boys, Grayson and Lucas. The family loves calling Savannah and the surrounding community home.  Ashley Harsey is the Director Of Operations at Savannah Ghost Pirates and has over 15 years of experience in marketing, strategic partnerships, advertising, and providing an extraordinary customer experience. She establishes strong community relationships and establishes a competitive advantage by coordinating chaos with effective organization. Ashley works hard to implement creative solutions with relentless determination.As a new Savannahian, Ashley wants to partner with industry leaders, learn from pioneers, and collaborate with community influencers, and inspire others.  Beth Whalen is an educator and Montessori Coach at Charles Ellis Montessori Academy where she has worked alongside the most dedicated and passionate teachers in the school district. She is also a Board member of Montessori Partnerships of Georgia, shepherding the work of supporting public Montessori teachers across the state. Additionally, she is the 2023 Teacher of the Year for the Savannah Chatham County Public School System. This distinction has allowed her the opportunity to be a vocal advocate for all public school teachers in the district. She has a Bachelor’s in Education, a Master’s in Curriculum Integration Through the Arts and will begin work on Educational Leadership Certification in the Fall. She believes fully in the power of public education. She believes in its capacity to provide opportunity to all, its ability to create respectful and compassionate communities, and its power to bring about peace and social justice. Beth has two incredible children, one in high school and the other in college, a doting husband of eighteen years and a lazy pup. She is an ardent lover of learning and enjoys reading, using power tools, and any opportunity for outdoor adventures. |
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Announcements from January 17 MeetingCommittee ReportsPresident Will Gruver announced that January is Rotary International's Vocational Service Month, in which vocational service means holding ourselves and our businesses to the highest ethical standards. What can you do?
PRESIDENT-ELECT News & Notes Jasmine "Jazzy J" Mills announced our President-Elect nominee for 2024-2025 is Kristen Crawley. The club voted unanimously to elect her! LUNCH will increase in price to $15.50 in advance and $17.00 the day of as of January 2023. Please pre-pay in advance (preferred) for accurate food ordering. Reach out to Chris Corey for more details. SAVE THE DATE:
SERVICE & INTERACT
FOUNDATION Josh mentioned that over half of our club have donation to the Rotary Foundation! 32 members have not donated yet so please do so before Josh has to remind you to. There are 9 members who are not registered on My Rotary - it's very easy to register here. MEMBERSHIP Katie announced that the membership committee will host an orientation meeting sometime in February with orientation in March - stay tuned for more! PROGRAMS/SOCIAL Send your programs and social ideas to George Seaborough for 2023! GUESTS
FEATURED SPEAKER: Derek Mallow - East Savannah United  Jeff Kole, Board Chair of the newly formed East Savannah United and the owner of Kole Management Company, introduced Executive Director Derek Mallow. Derek is no stranger to Metro Rotary and also serves as State Senator District 2. He was born and raised in Savannah and is a proud Jenkins High School Warrior. He is also an Eagle Scout. Derek is a son of East Savannah and thus, he has great passion in this new initiative. East Savannah United started as a Neighborhood Revitalization project for Hitch Village and Blackshear Neighborhoods. The organization is following the model of Purpose Built Communities and focusing on mixed income housing, reducing poverty, and "cradle to college" to promote equity in education for all students. Derek considers himself a "Community Quarterback". East Savannah United is focusing on these three main areas: Housing, Wellness, and Education. This approach can truly transform neighborhoods. Near the edge of these neighborhoods are great facilities such as Frank Callen Boys & Girls Club, DFCS, Curtis V. Cooper, and the Formey Early Learning Center. East Savannah United approached the Housing Authority and asked for 9 acres of land on Wheaton St. behind Randy's BBQ to create their own Early Learning Center. They engaged the Chamber of Commerce to lobby the city and county to put up funds, half of each from SPLOST. YMCA and Goodwill have agreed to add their own programs to the Early Learning Center and both have launched capital campaigns. East Savannah United needs to raise $8.25 Million to open the Early Learning Center. It will serve 140 kids ages 6 weeks to 3 years old, and will include a children's library. The Economic Development Impact on this new initiative will be quite sizable!
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Brags, Finds, and Whines - January 17Chelsea Sawyer announced that her breech baby boy was being evicted from her womb on Jan. 25th....as of the time of this writing Marshall Bennett Sawyer was born late Thursday night, January 19, with a head full of hair and wonderful set of lungs!!! DJ Spisso said he was glad to be back! Whitney Shephard announced that DEEP Center is seeking Writing Fellows as writing mentors to DEEP's Young Author Project participants for an 11-week commitment. More info can be found here and reach out to Whitney if you are interested! Suzanne Kirk made an announcement on behalf of Julie Wade: January is Human Trafficking Month and Tharros Place is hosting the fundraiser Cocktails for Courage on Jan. 27th at Cohen's Retreat. More info here. Bret Bell also announced on behalf of Julie Wade: Mark your calendars for Sat., Feb. 11, 8am-10am to enjoy a private ice skating session at the Civic Center for Metro Rotarians and families! Suggested donation to Tharros Place. Reshma Johnson announced that her daughter Raiyan is the winner of $20,000 First Tee National Scholarship! See the news story here from Augusta 2022. Reshma also expressed relief from rolling off the AIA Board as the former chair and her daughter gave the speech in her absence. Proud Mama! |
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Announcements from January 3 MeetingCommittee ReportsPresident Elect Jasmine Mills kicked off the meeting and reminded everyone to send your EREY receipts to Josh Yates- $50 or more paid via the Rotary website- LUNCH will increase in price to $15.50 in advance and $17.00 the day of (if food is still available) as of January 2023. Please pre-pay in advance (preferred) for accurate food ordering. Reach out to Chris Corey for more details. SERVICE
PROGRAMS/SOCIAL Send your programs and social ideas to George for 2023. Guests
Featured Speaker: Lisa Goodman- Wilderness Southeast Lisa Goodman is the Donor Relations Manager for Wilderness Southeast (WiSE), a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to developing an awareness, appreciation, and understanding of the natural world. Their mission is to Explore, Discover, and Understand the world around us. Founded in 1973 by Joyce & Dick Murlelss & John Crawford. One of the first organizations to offer ego-tourism starting with 3-7 day long expeditions to Central and South America. Now they offer programs throughout South Georgia led by educators, including Wassaw, Black Water Paddle (Ebenezer Creek), Salt Marsh Adventures (Butter Bean Beach), Alligators & Friends (re-opening soon!) and Costal Birding. Their signature program is “Fish Gotta Swim” which is an immersive program for Title One schools consisting of 8 sessions (5 in class & 3 trips) and is funded by their other programing. They serve around 900 students each year. Stay tuned for their 50th Anniversary Event!
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Brags, Finds, and Whines - January 3Jasmine Mills gave a shout out to Josh for easily explaining the Rotary website for donations. Erika Morrow announced that Habitat for Humanity raised $112,000 at their first gala! Jamie Arkins announced her new job as a Recruiter for Thomas & Hutton and bragged on Cecilia Arango for the lightening speed in which she generated a text message opt-in for our Club |
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Announcements from December 20 MeetingCommittee ReportsPresident Will Gruver reminded announced that December is Rotary International's Disease Prevention & Treatment Month. Take care of your health and others. Here are some things you can do during the holiday season:
LUNCH will increase in price to $15.50 in advance and $17.00 the day of (if food is still available) as of January 2023. Please pre-pay in advance (preferred) for accurate food ordering. Reach out to Chris Corey for more details. FOOD DRIVE Joseph Marshall of the Lion's Club of Savannah spoke about the food drive that Rotary and Lion's Clubs are partnering in friendly competition on. Food costs have gone up 13% in homes. Hundreds of thousands of people are “food insecure” and we will be collecting food for the next year. Sarah Smith is our point of contact for this challenge. SERVICE Kathleen Anderson announced that our club will participate in the America's Second Harvest Brown Bag for the Elderly at 8am on January 21st. Two shifts available: 8:00-9:30, 9:30-11:00. Children welcome. INTERACT Speaking opportunities to address the St. Andrews Middle School program. Contact Kelly Waldron or Sarah Smith. PROGRAMS/SOCIAL Send your programs and social ideas to George for 2023. Guests
Featured Speaker: Michael Sarhatt, Director - Chatham-Savannah Counter Narcotics Team
Michael is the Director of the Chatham County Counter Narcotics Team. He started by stating we are in the middle of an opioid epidemic. We are not at critical mass status yet in Chatham County and Mike’s here to ensure we do not get there. What is Fentanyl? Natural (heroine) vs. synthetic (oxy, Fentanyl). Methamphetamines physically alter your brain to the point that you can’t say no. This epidemic is a disease. Certain people are more susceptible...despite many of us having been prescribed in the past, we didn’t become addicted. Sadly, some people get addicted after one pill. Even after 14 months without using, the brain is not healed. That's why so many people relapse. Here are some of the cold, hard facts:
Quick treatments if you come in contact with fentanyl? NARCAN is a nasal spray available at all pharmacies. Michael is currently working with the DA’s office on 5 felony murder cases. He runs the Healing Hearts Family Support Group at the Circle of Recovery Peer Center at 2423 Abercorn St For Families that have lost a loved one to an Opioid Death. Contact 912-652-3930 for more information. |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines - December 20Kristen Crawley bragged on Suzanne Kirk on collecting the gift wrap and supplies and Ro Patrick on her coordination efforts Dec. 15-17 for Brightside/CASA. The kids surely must have had a great Christmas with all of the donated gifts and receiving them beautifully wrapped on Christmas morning! Erika Morrow announced her ForSight annual New Year's party and fundraiser for the Savannah Center for Blind & Low Vision on Thursday, December 29, 4-7pm featuring live music, a magician, incredible raffles items and beer and wine and munchies. Please plan to join the party again the last week of December 2023! Brad Patrick bragged on his wife Ro on her incredible PSA campaign work on the dangers of fentanyl. Below are links to the campaigns directly to youth and to their parents. Ro said she would be glad to answer any questions she can on fentanyl as she has lived and breathed the issue for the past two years. Real Deal on Fentanyl This is our campaign directly to youth 13-24, educating them on the dangers and prevalence of fentanyl: PSA https://youtu.be/ Drop the F*Bomb This is our campaign for parents of youth 13-24, educating them on the dangers and prevalence of fentanyl, and how to start a life-saving conversation with their kids: Julie Wade is hosting an event coming up for Tharros Place: Cocktails for Courage will take place on Jan. 27th at Cohen's Retreat, in conjunction with the SIDC's 8th Annual Traffick Jam at SSU. Click here for event information/tickets/sponsorships. |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines - December 6Will Gruver announced that he will be dancing in the 2023 Dancing with the Savannah Stars for Brightside Advocacy (formerly CASA). Leigh Acevedo announced that she recently left her employment with SEDA after 15 years and will soon be back on the job market. Kelley Waldron recommended a "find" of the National Memorial for Peace and Justice in Montgomery, Alabama. Liza Smith thanked everyone for a great turnout and success at our Brightside ASP fundraiser, Belly Laughs for Brighside in November at Front Porch Improv! Lee Perry announced the Savannah State University Basketball Classic coming up in February or March. You can check out the schedule here. Julie Wade has an event coming up for Tharros Place: "Cocktails for Courage" will take place on Jan. 27th at Cohen's Retreat, in conjunction with Traffick Jam at SSU. Click here for event information/tickets/sponsorships. |
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Announcements from December 6 MeetingCommittee ReportsPresident Will Gruver reminded us of the importance of The CART Fund buckets on our tables collecting "Coins for Alzheimer's Research Trust." Loose change goes a long way for research.
Guests
Featured Speaker: Gene Dobbs-Bradford, Savannah Music Festival
Gene was formerly with Jazz St. Louis for 23 years. He is an Eastman School of Music graduate and his former college roommate Marc Chesanow is a busy professional upright and electric bass player here in Savannah. When Gene was on the NEA Grants Panel in 2011 he noticed that SMF was doing great things and offered unique programming. He thought to himself he'd love to have a job leading the Savannah Music Festival and 10 years later the top job opened up and he applied for it. The board and staff welcomed him with open arms in 2021. Savannah is fortunate to have him here! Savannah Music Festival is Georgia's largest musical arts event and one of the largest cross-genre music festivals in the country. The economic impact on the city is tremendous, with last year boasting $12M spent by festival-goers. 2023 will showcase 90 performances by 70 different acts! Six things Gene highlighted include: 1. Four nights at Trustees Garden outdoor stage! Tedeschi Trucks Band, Buddy Guy (two nights), and Galactic/Cory Wong/Nate Smith 2. Excellent Classical programming with Phillip Dukes taking the reigns as Associate Artistic Director 3. Exciting Co-Bills - getting two shows for the price of one 4. Strongest Jazz Programming ever - featuring octogenarians and Terence Blanchard, who co-wrote the Mo' Better Blues soundtrack 5. Return of International Artists following the COVID-19 pandemic 6. Explorer Pass - any student can attend any general admission concert accompanied by a chaperone. This is a new program being funded through SMF Education/Musical Explorers. As a 501(c)3 nonprofit music organization, SMF relies on the support of generous donors and sponsors, without whom the festival and their education programs would not be possible. Wish to support the festival further? Go here for more details. Peruse the lineup and purchase tickets for the spring festival here. |
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Announcements from November 15 MeetingCommittee ReportsJasmine Mills started the meeting reminding us that November is Rotary Foundation month and encouraged us to make our $50 donation to the Rotary Foundation (click here) to meet our EREY goal!
Guests
Featured Speaker: Brianne (Bri) Halverson, Front Porch Improv
One of Bri's brilliant programs (her brain child) is "Trauma Drama" for middle and high school aged youth. This 14 week program helps children address everything from abuse to struggles with abandonment and neglect, which she says is the biggest issue. Another featured program from FPI is "Savannah for Morons" which is basically a trolley tour roast of Savannah's history. Oh, and if you are in need for a host or two to Emcee your event with a light hearted and fun approach, look no further- FPI has got you covered! Want to support FPI further? Consider the following membership levels:
Contact Bri directly on Instagram, Facebook, or via their website: https://www.frontporchimprov.com/ |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines- November 15Whitney Shephard announced that Green Truck celebrated their 12 year anniversary and partnered with the Savannah Tree Foundation to plant 12 trees! Brad Patrick thanked everyone for their support of him running the NY Marathon (sub 4:00 on a very hot day!!) and came in as the top fundraiser for Teddy's Team! Erika Morrow was awarded Young Optometrist of the Year! Julie Wade has an event coming up for Tharros Place: "Cocktails for Courage" will take place on Jan. 27th at Cohen's Retreat, in conjunction with Traffick Jam at SSU. Click here for event information/tickets/sponsorships Florence Slatinsky announced that her son was accepted to Auburn! |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines- October 18Brett Bell bragged on Suzanne Kirk for her facilitation of Savannah Leadership Training. Chelsea Sawyer slated to speak at GA Southern Armstrong campus Brad Patrick announced he will be running the NY Marathon and raising funds for Teddy's Team @bradpatrick00: Direct Link to donate now: Click Here! John Rodman mentioned that the Kicklighter Research Center will be adding a landscaping arm to their business model. |
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Announcements from October 18 MeetingCommittee ReportsPresident Will Gruver started the meeting reminding us once again that October is Economic & Community Development month and encouraged us to bring a guest to our meetings and directly donating to the Rotary Foundation (click here).
Guests
Featured Speaker: Dr. Alan Meglin, Advanced Regenerative Therapy Dr. Meglin had our chapter thoroughly engaged during his presentation on cellular therapy and how he and his team work to make people "Hyper Healers." In fact, they specialize in anything that has to do with healing at their main office in Savannah. He briefly explained various therapies, including dissolving oxygen into ones blood using hyperbaric chambers, stem cell growth, differentiation, and injections, post-trauma brain regeneration, and the "bio hacks" that aid in reversing one's biological age. We learned that since 1980, the number of Nobel Peace Prizes awarded in the field of regeneration is significant. Dr Meglin states "For some patients, regenerative medicine sits at the intersection of hope, despair, desperation and false promises. This places an added burden to provide the most ethical care possible. Patient's often come to us when conventional treatments have failed. Advanced Regenerative Therapies believe that patients must be informed and it is recommended that our patients read the articles [provided by other sources] before coming to us." For more information about treatment options, click here: https://www.advancedregenerativetherapies.com/savannah-ga |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines- October 4Suzanne Kirk announced the annual Empty Bowl fundraiser benefiting Emmaus House on Nov. 6th. They are still looking for sponsors and invite everyone to buy tickets! https://unitedministriessavannah.org/emptybowl Elizabeth Summerall announced the Junior League Thrift Sale on Nov. 5th. They are accepting donations. Florence Slatinsky bragged about a wonderful vacation through AM Fund Trip, which they purchased at a Hospice fundraiser. She also encouraged us to check out the Fat Bear Week- click here to set up your bracket!! https://explore.org/fat-bear-week Zerik Samples enjoyed time with his father cleaning his garage and assembling a gazebo this weekend! He also announced that Habitat for Humanity will have their Gala on Wednesday Dec. 7th. Jessica Pedigo bragged on Ben Senger and the team at WSAV. Her niece and nephew had a blast playing "Newscaster For A Day" and is hoping they will donate that experience again for the ASP fundraiser! |
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Announcements from October 4 MeetingCommittee ReportsPresident Will Gruver kicked off the meeting reminding us that October is Economic & Community Development month and encouraged us to bring a guest to our meetings and directly donating to the Rotary Foundation (click here).
District 6960 is raising funds to support those effected by Hurricane Ian. Click here for more information. Our Annual Service Partner Brightside's newest Bright House on Wheaton St. will have the official ribbon cutting on Oct. 7th at 1:30 PM. Save the Date: Nov. 17th Front Porch Improv Theater: ASP Fundraiser!! Jessica Pedigo announced that Munch assignments will be going out soon...don't be shy! Get a date on the schedule and meet up! Guests
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Announcements from Aug 20 MeetingCommittee ReportsPresident Will Groover kicked off the meeting reminding us that September is Basic Education & Literacy Month as well as encouraging us to engage in our chapter by bringing a guest, directly donating to the Rotary Foundation (click here), or joining the ASP Fundraiser Committee! We welcome District 6920 Governor Heather Kellen as our next speaker, who, along with Lions District 18-N Governor Shellie Smith, are working together to collect food to fill food banks, feed first responders, and serve their communities' food insecurity needs. The two governors are holding a “friendly competition” to see which service organization can donate the most items. Will also mentioned that they are still looking for host families for the weekend of Oct. 14th. Our Annual Service Partner Brightside's newest Bright House on Wheaton St. is close to being ready to receive people in need of service. Our final service day at the home is Oct. 1st, 9:00am-12:00pm, with the official ribbon cutting on Oct. 7th at 1:30 PM. Guests
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Announcements from September 6 meetingFeatured Speaker: Zerik Samples Zerik is the Chief Executive Officer of the Coastal Empire Habitat for Humanity. He hails from Brunswick and has 9 years in non-profit under his belt. District Governer Mike Muldowney told Zerik to visit the Metro club and he's never looked back since!Habitat for Humanity prides itself on bringing people together and hopes for a world where everyone deserves a decent place to live. With Habitat's focus on shelter, for more than 40 years Habitat has done just this: "Build Homes, Communities and Hope". Habitat wants to be part of a larger solution to help our county and region. In fact, Habitat partnered with Local Farmbag to help building a refrigerated container to store produce longer to keep them from rotting too quickly. Habitat is comprised of three major services: Contractors, Homeowner Services, and the ReStore. General Contractors and sight supervisors to teach you how to use the nail gun and do other building tasks. Homeowner services is homeowner education which contributes to building families by offering financial planning, first time homebuyer classes, and owners are required to put in 350 sweat equity hours. The ReStore is a conduit of resources from local furniture stores in which items are too expensive to ship back. Since COVID, Habitat has built 5 new homes. They are currently 8 partner families in the homeowner services program, and 5 mortgages were burned. Habitat hosted one CEO build and one women's build. There are developments in process on Darling St., Spivey St., and they received a two-acre donation of land in Garden City. Habitat is always look for volunteers! Mark your calendars for the following upcoming Habitat events and fundraiser: Sept. 27 - Hops for Habitat at Moodright's; Oct. 18 - Sips at the Station benefiting Habitat at Ardsley Station; Dec. 7 - Annual Home for the Holidays Gala Committee ReportsPresident Will Gruver opened the meeting by informing us that September is Rotary International's Basic Education and Literacy month and reminded us to 1) bring a guest, 2) participate in Service with Brightside, and 3) sign up and attend RLI! Rotary Leadership Institute registration for the September 10th session at GA Tech Savannah Campus. Click here to register: http://rlitraining.org Our Annual Service Partner Brightside's newest Bright House on Wheaton St. is close to being ready to receive people in need of service. Our next service day is September 17th, 9:00am-12:00pm. Please contact Kristen Crawley and Chelsea Sawyer to help plan the ASP Fundraiser! Sarah Smith announced that St. Andrew's School will be chartering a new Interact Club for middle school students! Member Kelly Waldron, Headmaster is spearheading this project with Metro's help. GRSP student Beatriz will be speaking to our club soon - her classes get out at 12:15pm. Oct. 14-16 will be GRSP Weekend here in Savannah. Mark your calendars: Metro Holiday Party on Tuesday, November 30! 5th Tuesday celebration. Location and time to be announced. Guests
Rotary AnniversariesDerek Goldfarb celebrates one year in Metro in September! |
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Announcements from Aug. 16 meetingCommittee ReportsPresident Elect Jasmine Mills filled in as the pinch hitter for Will and called the meeting to order. She focused on membership and new club development month. Let's all follow her lead and go to bat bringing a guest to our next meeting! Rotary Leadership Institute registration for the September 10th session at GA Tech Savannah Campus. Click here to register: http://rlitraining.org Our Annual Service Partner Brightside's newest Bright House on Wheaton St. is close to being ready to receive people in need of service. Our next service day is September 17th, 9:00am-12:00pm. Guests
Featured Speaker: Bob Ohrablo Bob is the president of the Savannah Ghost Pirates Hockey Team and is beyond excited about their presence in Savannah. He is a fellow Rotarian in Jacksonville, FL and is starting his 38th hockey season this fall. The ECHL has 28 teams and the newly formed Savannah team is affiliated with the Las Vegas Golden Knights and the Henderson, NV Silver Knights. Opening Day for the Ghost Pirates is November 5th, 2022 and Girls on the Run of Coastal GA will the charity partner for that night. (GOTR was our Annual Service Partner last year.) Bob commended the Enmarket Arena as having the best ice and spoke about the expectation that the players will be engaged in our community on many levels. The mascot was named just after our meeting, after over 4000 naming entries, we official have ourselves Davy (Jones)! When asked about regional and national recruitment, we were told that they are tapping into non-traditional markets and pulling young men from regions that would not be expected, but showing lots of passion and talent (and a propensity for fighting at times...which is completely allowed in the sport of hockey.) At the end of the day, Bob says it's all about having the "hockey mind" which, he says, cannot be taught. It's instinct and a mindset that must be intrinsic to the athlete. If you go, visit http://ghostpirateshockey.com:
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Announcements from Aug. 2 meetingAnnouncements/Committee ReportsPresident Will Gruver called the meeting to order. He announced the Board of Directors for 2022-2023. Will highlighted that Paul Harris was Rotary International's founder. Fun fact: the very first service project was installing public toilets outside of the Chicago City Hall a century ago. Our new GRSP student Beatriz Hashimoto is here after 28 hours of traveling in late July. Meagen Burrows and her husband are hosting and representing Metro of the four clubs hosting Beatriz. She has moved into the dorms at the Armstrong campus of Georgia Southern University. Our Annual Service Partner Brightside's newest Bright House on Wheaton St. is close to being ready to receive people in need of service. Metro has helped over two service days on July 30 and Aug. 6 to paint and assemble furniture. There will be more projects coming from our Service Committee...stay tuned! GuestsEmily Doherty is the Marketing Director with Great Oaks Banks and was guest of Cecilia Arango Featured Speaker: Whitney Shephard Our own MetRotarian Whitney Shephard serves beyond our club as our Rotary District 6920 Assistant District Governor, serving the Area including Metro, Rotary Club of Savannah (Downtown), Sunrise Rotary, and Skidaway Island Rotary. She embodies the spirit of what being a Rotarian truly means. 6920 is being lead by a dynamic District Governor and great things are happening! Highlights from her remarks:
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Brags, Finds, and Whines, Aug. 2Kelley Boyd said she is still searching for a new location for Savannah Yoga Center. Please contact her if you have leads. Cari Phelps said the Salacia Salts studio has moved from Hall Street to a new location. The retail location on Abercorn Street remains on Abercorn Street. John Rodman, chair of the Kicklighter Resource Center board of directors, said the center has a new playground set and needs volunteers to help assemble and install it on May 21 at 8 a.m. He said the center is also looking for new board members. Anyone who is interested should contact him. Sarah Smith encouraged club members to attend the Shelter From the Rain Motors for Mom Car Show fundraiser. in Richmond Hill on May 21. Jordan Chase said the Fresh Air Home is in need of buses to transport approximately 45 children to six to eight field trips over the summer. They have a transportation budget, but are having trouble finding buses and drivers. Please contact her if you have ideas. |
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Announcements July 19
Committee ReportsPresident Will Gruver called the meeting to order. This was his first meeting as president (Immediate Past President Cecilia Arango covered on July 5 when Will's flight was delayed). He showed the "not a walking stick" he received from the district governor at the Presidents Elect Training Seminar to do the "digging" and to do the work of Rotary. Campion Usry was inducted into the club. He is is vice president of Coastal Medical Billing and previously served in the U.S. Marine Corps as an infantryman and martial arts instructor. He earned a bachelor of science degree in finance from the University of South Carolina and an MBA from Charleston Southern University. He moved to Savannah 18 months ago and is married with two children. He was a charter board member and secretary of the Summerville Evening Rotary Club. GuestsMary Francis Kidd with Klarna (Swedish company) was the guest of Erika Morrow. Jason Usry with WJCL (and a screenwriter) was the guest of Sarah Smith. Jake Wood of the Rotary Club of Columbus, Ga, attended the meeting. He is in town aiding in implementing a new chapter of House of Heroes in Savannah (a non-profit founded in Columbus). Rotary AnniversariesHighlights: Jamie Arkins, Kristen Crawley, and Jeff Brady have been members for 10 years. Featured Speaker: Joe MarcheseJoe Marchese is the owner of Marchese Construction and co-founder of the Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society (LDSS). Highlights from his remarks: 
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Announcements June 21
Committee ReportsIn her final meeting as president, Cecilia Arango presented the following 2021-2022 Metro Rotary Awards:
She encouraged club members to look into the Rotary Leadership Institute as an avenue for learning how to be a better Rotarian through three sessions: The Rotarian, The Rotary Club, and the Rotary Journey.  In the Metrotarians in the Spotlight segment, Cecilia noted coverage of TEDx Savannah, for which she served as emcee. Zerik Samples received Georgia Southern University's George & Lucy Armstrong Award. Kristin Crawley completed the Leadership Southeast Georgia program.  Ro Patrick and Lexi Henigman were inducted into the club and Whitney Shephard was honored as a Paul Harris Fellow + 6. Program Committee Chair George Seaborough announced the next social will be July 26 at Vic’s on the River. Classification Talk: Kristin King After Kristin moved to Savannah from Michigan in 2004, she co-founded New Arts Ensembles with Ricardo Ochoa. The firm coordinates live music for more than 200 events throughout the year, including weddings, corporate functions, private parties, and more. She is also the marketing director for Sago Property Management, which specializes in long-term residential properties. She is president of the Girls on the Run of Coastal Georgia and Lowcountry board and previously served on the board of America’s Second Harvest of Coastal Georgia. GuestsEmily Doherty was the guest of Cecilia Arango. Kim Campbell was the guest of Ellen Harris Sarah Smith’s guest was her daughter Nora. Prospective Member Profile: Campion UsryCampion Usry is vice president of Coastal Medical Billing and previously served in the U.S. Marine Corps as an infantryman and martial arts instructor. He earned a bachelor of science degree in finance from the University of South Carolina and an MBA from Charleston Southern University. He moved to Savannah 18 months ago and is married with two children. He was a charter board member and secretary of the Summerville Evening Rotary Club. Featured Speaker: Conni Reynolds, Savannah Chamber of Commerce Conni Reynolds is small business and events manager for the Savannah Area Chamber and is a Savannah native. She emphasized that Chamber is primarily composed of small businesses and has 2,200 members in total. She said her work focuses on connecting small businesses with the resources they need to succeed. She organizes networking opportunities, ribbon-cuttings, and large events and helps members connect through service on councils and committees within the Chamber. |
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Announcements June 7
Committee Reports President Cecilia Arango reminded club members that June is Rotary Fellowships month. Rotary Fellowships are international groups that share a common passion. Being part of a fellowship is a fun way to make friends around the world and explore shared hobbies, professions, and interests. She also announced July 1 is the deadline to pay dues for the coming Rotary year. Service Committee Chair Kristen Crawley reminded members they can still volunteer for Bike Walk Savannah bicyclist and pedestrian counts. Program Committee Chair George Seaborough said details on the June social will be announced soon. Annual Service Partner Committee Co-Charis Cari Phelps and Chelsea Sawyer announced that Brightside Child and Family Advocacy has been selected as this year’s service partner. Stay tuned for details on service opportunities. Membership Committee Chair Katie Joyner announced Lexi Henigman and Campion Usry are moving through the projective member program. GuestsConnor Buchanan was the guest of Cecilia Arango. Charles Pace was the guest of Zerik Samples. Lexi Henigman (Prospective Members Program) was the guest of Chelsea Sawyer. Brendan West was the guest of Katie Joyner. Aileen Gabbey was the guest of Sarah Smith. Kelley Waldron’s guest was her son, Charlie. Opollo Johnson was the guest of Kristen Crawley. Featured Speaker: Dr. Amy Williams, Savannah Philharmonic Executive Director Dr. Amy Williams described the changes the Savannah Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus has undertaken to overcome barriers to participation so that all members of the community can attend concerts, including adjusting pricing, relaxing concert dress codes, and finding additional concert locations. She explained how programs such as Phil the Neighborhood, Phil the Park, Phil the Squares, the On the Road Series, and the Subscription series are aimed at making performances more accessible to communities in our region. Williams also talked about the education initiatives the Philharmonic has launched to build programming which provides all students at every school with equitable access to high-quality music education. |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines, July 19Leigh Acevedo needs a babysitter for her daughter on July 27 OR Aug. 1 Julie Wade and her husband Drew celebrated 25 years of marriage on July 19. Sarah Smith thanked Metro Rotary for the opportunities to do service projects this summer with her daughter. Girl Scouts QuestFest was particularly fun on July 16. Jamie Arkins invited Rotarians to join her at the Savannah Bananas game and party deck on July 22 with the Mutual of America group. Will Gruver reminded everyone to give their loose change to the CART buckets to support Alzheimer's disease research. |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines, May 17Kelley Boyd said she is still searching for a new location for Savannah Yoga Center. Please contact her if you have leads. Cari Phelps said the Salacia Salts studio has moved from Hall Street to a new location. The retail location on Abercorn Street remains on Abercorn Street. John Rodman, chair of the Kicklighter Resource Center board of directors, said the center has a new playground set and needs volunteers to help assemble and install it on May 21 at 8 a.m. He said the center is also looking for new board members. Anyone who is interested should contact him. Sarah Smith encouraged club members to attend the Shelter From the Rain Motors for Mom Car Show fundraiser. in Richmond Hill on May 21. Jordan Chase said the Fresh Air Home is in need of buses to transport approximately 45 children to six to eight field trips over the summer. They have a transportation budget, but are having trouble finding buses and drivers. Please contact her if you have ideas. |
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Announcements May 17
Committee Reports President-Elect Will Gruver reminded club members that May is Youth Services Month and talked about Rotary’s areas of focus. He also discussed preparing for the new Rotary year, which begins in July. He asked members to be on the lookout for the Club Member Satisfaction Survey that is used to plan for the new year at the board retreat. He encouraged everyone to consider joining a committee, and attend the District Assembly on June 18. He also noted that recruiting for the fall fundraiser chair and committee is already underway. Will announced that the Hue Thomas Jr. Georgia Rotary Student Program is returning to Savannah, Oct. 14-16. Program Committee Chair George Seaborough announced the May Social will be held May 24 at 5:30 p.m. at Pinky’s and the Fifth Tuesday social on May 31 in Greene Square Service credits are also available through purchasing books for the Loop it Up Drive and through participation in the Rotary East beach clean-up on May 21. GuestsKendall Walker Kate Blair Annual Service Partner Presentations Annual Service Partner Committee Co-Chairs Carri Clark and Chelsea Sawyer reported they received a total of 20 qualified applications. Five of these sere invited to present to the Service Committee, which selected the two finalists: Brightside Child & Family Advocacy and Elevate Savannah. Kate Blair of Brightside and Kendall Walker of Elevate each made presentations to the club. Each club member has received a link to vote on the Annual Service Partner via email. |
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Announcements May 3
Committee Reports President Cecilia Arango announced that May is Youth Service Month. She reported that she, Will Gruver, Jessica Pedigo, and Meagen Burrows attended the District 6920 Conference in Augusta. Rotarians raised $20,250 for Ukraine relief and Metro was once again designated as a Gold Club. The Woodville Tompkins Interact Club also received a Zone 34 Citation. In the Metrotarians in the News segment, she directed members’ attention to a Savannah Morning News story on Josh Yates and Ghost City Pinball. Membership Committee Chair Katie Joyner inducted Kristin King and Brad Patrick into the club.  On behalf of Service Committee Chair Kristen Crawley, Jordan Chase thanked everyone who volunteered at the April service opportunities with Forsyth Farmers Market Picnic and Over the Moon Diaper Drive. Upcoming service projects include the May 19 Citizen Advocacy Picnic and the May 21 Beach Clean-Up with Rotary Club of Savannah East. Rotarians may also purchase books through the Loop it Up Savannah Book Drive to receive service credit. Program Committee Chair George Seaborough announced upcoming events including the May 17 Club Meeting, where Annual Service Partner finalists will present, the fifth Tuesday social on May 31 in Greene Square, and a social with a date and location to be announced soon.  Mackie McIntosh spoke to the club about her experiences as a Chatham County poll worker for the last three years. She emphasized that election processes and equipment and secure and that election officials have developed contingency plans for every possibility. She said working at the polls has been a great experience and she is impressed with the training poll workers receive, the machines, and the expertise of the technicians who maintain the machines.GuestsAnna-Maria Perez and Tommy Rushing were the guests of Jeff Brady. Featured Speaker: Brad Raffensperger Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger talked about his work investigating reports of irregularities following the 2020 election. He talked about the Election Integrity act of 2022, including the photo ID requirements for absentee ballots. He described how he became involved in public service and his path to running for secretary of state. He also discussed his office’s role in professional licensing and emphasized a new law that expedites the issuance of licenses for military spouses who are new to the state. |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines, April 5Suzanne Kirk announced that her kitchen renovation is finished. She thanked Reshma Johnson for her work and recommended Lamon Luther custom tables. Lee Perry said he is once again doing the 2,000 Burpee Challenge to stop soldier suicides. Laura Lee Bocade announced that TEDxSavannah is returning on June 24. Kristin King thanked everyone who volunteered with Girls on the Run at the Publix Savannah Women's Half Marathon & 5K. Whitney Shephard encouraged everyone to attend Forsyth Farmers Market Fam Picnic on April 24. Katie Balthrop announced she has hired two new employees at Savannah Sport and Wellness, a trainer and a dietician. Leigh Acevedo announced that her dog had passed away, but was comforted by Pets at Peace by Fox & Weeks. Jasmine Mills said she and her wife, Brandi, have been foster parents for one year in March. She and Brandi are both going back to school this year. Jasmine started a year-long journey to become a national board-certified health coach and Brandi will be working on her education specialist degree in coaching pedagogy. |
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Announcements March 15
Committee Reports President Cecilia Arango reminded members that March is water and sanitation month. She recommended club members look into the WASH in Schools Target Challenge. She also noted, now through June 30, designated Rotary Districts that border Ukraine and the Rotary District in Ukraine may apply for grants up to $50,000 each from the Disaster Response Fund used to provide relief to refugees or other victims including water, food, shelter, medicine, and clothing. Contributions can be made here. Membership Committee Chair Katie Joyner reported that Kristin King, Ro Patrick, and Brad Patrick are all making their way through the new member process. Service Committee Chair Kristen Crawley reminded members of the bonus service project with The GOTR Pink Up the Pace Party on March 31. Program Committee Chair George Seaborough reminded members of upcoming lunch speakers: Savannah City Manager Jay Melder on April 5 and GSRP student Sofie Bohl on April 15. The Fifth Tuesday Social will be held March 29 in Oglethorpe Square.
The deadline to submit Annual Service Partner applications is April 1. Please spread the word to local nonprofits that would benefit from financial and volunteer support from Metro. GuestsAnnette Ogletree-McDougal was the guest of Zerik Samples. Anne Allen Westbrook was the guest of Julie Wade. Shannon McClure and Ashley Womack were the guests of Jamie Smith Arkins. Diane Parker and Campion Usry were the guests of Katie Joyner.
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Roastary Sponsorship Opportunities and Tickets! To Purchase tickets, click here! |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines March 15Zerik Samples reported how happy he was with the Coastal Empire Habitat for Humanity’s CEO Build and Women Build events. Alfred McGuire said Zerik did a great job with the events. Kristen Crawley thanked Chris Corey and everyone who worked to make the Roastary a success. Kelly Boyd announced that she had recently hired two new staff members at Savannah Yoga Center. In less positive news, she said a jiu-jitsu academy is now located above the yoga studio. |
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Announcements Feb. 15
Committee ReportsPresident Cecilia Arango reminded members that February is Rotary Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution Month. She recommended the article, Education on the Front Lines by Frank Bures, from the Rotarian. Cecilia discussed our roles in promoting peace by explaining that Rotary and its members can serve as practitioners, educators, mediators, and advocates. She announced that Metro President Elect and General Manager of Operations for JAN-PRO South Carolina & Georgia Coast Will Gruver was featured in Savannah CEO in a segment covering, “continuing cleaning practices coming out of the pandemic.” Cecelia urged members to download the GroupMe app for a more robust method of receiving texts and other information from Metro. She reminded everyone to purchase their Roastary tickets. The event will be held at Coach's Corner on March 13, which is also Metro’s birthday. Past President Jessica Pedigo reminded members that ticket prices will increase on March 1. Interact Liaison Sarah Smith said five students will compete in the Preston Johnson essay contest and will present their essays at an upcoming meeting. Disaster Response Chair Chelsea Sawyer talked with the club about the differences between weather watches and warnings, using cupcakes as an example. She also asked members to take the Chatham County Hurricane Questionnaire.  GuestsPitch Powers Helen White Lexi Henigman Jennifer Graham Membership Minute Ellen Harris is owner of Ethos Preservation, a firm that offers a wide range of preservation planning services with a focus on project consulting in historic districts. She has three children, a five-year-old and two 15-month-old twins. Interesting facts about Ellen: She earned an undergraduate degree in medieval history and had a pet goose who lived in her house. She likes being a Rotarian because of Rotary’s dedication to both local and international service.
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Announcements Feb. 1
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Brags, Finds, and Whines, Jan. 18Brags, Finds, and Whines
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Announcements Jan. 4Committee Reports President Cecilia Arango drew members attention to Rotary partner, ShelterBox, a program which provides essential tools for rebuilding after disasters. She said Foundation Chair Laura Lee Bocade would be contacting members soon about their Every Rotarian Every Year contributions. On behalf of Membership Chair Katie Joyner, Cecilia reported that Derek Goldfarb and Emily Salzer are now ready for induction at the next meeting.  On behalf of Service Committee Chair Kristen Crawley, Cecilia thanked members who volunteered with Loop It Up Savannah. Upcoming service projects include: Jan. 16: Union Mission House Prep Members may also purchase materials needed by Future Minds Adult Education and Literacy.  Cecilia urged members to become more involved in Rotary by enrolling in the Rotary Leadership Institute. For more information contact her. Past President Jessica Pedigo said more details on the oyster roast will be released in the near future. In addition, Munches will resume and invitations will go out soon. Jessica also announced we will soon have a final figure on the money raised by the Blood, Sweat, and Beers fundraiser for Girls on the Run Preparedness chair Chelsea Sawyer urged members to get ready for cold weather by planning to protect the four Ps: People, pets, plants, and pipes. Metro Member Moment Jamie Smith Arkins is the new director of human resources for Hospice Savannah, Inc. She is happily married to Brennen Arkins and has a 13-yr old stepson, AJ who attends St. Peter's. Two interesting facts about Jamie: She was a drum major in her high school marching band over at Valdosta High School (Go Cats!) and she's no doubt Savannah's No. 1 fan of live music and theater! Why does she like being a Rotarian? Jamie says, "It's because of all the members of our club and the opportunities for fellowship and service to our community." GuestsKendra DeMoura and Katie Cupp from Good Cause Marketing and Mary Beth Kennedy from CAE Healthcare were the guests of Elizabeth Summerell. They are all members of the Junior League of Savannah Featured Speaker: Richard Sanders Attorney Richard Sanders talked about different approaches to conflict resolution including mediation, in which a dispute is resolved when two parties reach a compromise with the help of a neutral third party. He described arbitration as being like, “court without a judge.” Both sides have the opportunity to make their case before a neutral third party, who is a specialist in the area of dispute. Finally, litigation is the legal process in which a judge or jury makes the decision.Sanders talked about the services available through the Mediation Center of Savannah. He suggested that conflict can be positive, as it can be a catalyst for creative energy. Groups can learn to navigate conflict, he said, and it can be used to benefit highly motivate teams. |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines, Jan. 4Cecilia Arango said her son has graduated from the University of Georgia and is now at home filling out job applications. Jamie Smith Arkins announced she is now the director of human resources at Hospice Savannah. Zerik Samples shared that he is now engaged. He and his fiancée toured the Biltmore House in Ashville and he recommends it. |
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Announcements Nov. 16Committee Reports President Cecilia Arango called the meeting to order. She thanked Chris Corey for volunteering to organize the annual oyster roast. Please contact Chris if you would like to help. She reminded members that November is Rotary Foundation Month and urged them to donate if they have not yet done so. On behalf of the Membership Committee, she announced that Emily Salzer and Derek Goldfarb have completed all the new member program requirements. Immediate Past President Jessica Pedigo reported that the Blood, Sweat, and Beers fundraiser was a big success. She will update the club on how much was raised for Girls on the Run at the next meeting. On behalf of the Program Committee, Cecilia reminded members about the November Social on Nov. 23 and the Holiday Get-Together on Nov. 30. Membership Moment: Denise Grabowski Denise is founder and owner of Symbioscity, an urban planning consulting firm located in Savannah. She's married with two kids in public school — her daughter is (almost) 15 and a freshman in high school, and her son is in 6th grade. She serves on the SCCPSS School Board as the District One representative. She is a Georgia native and grew up in the Atlanta area, and moved to Savannah soon after college. She was the scholar-athlete of the year her senior year in high school. Denise said she loves Metro Rotary for great events like the Blood, Sweat and Beers fundraiser for Girls on the Run, where we can come together to raise money for a great cause and have a lot of fun at the same time! GuestsLauren Grout and Jeff Hatch were the guests of Katie Balthrop. Sara Del Cuore, Will Fagan, and Anna-Maria Perez were the guests of Jeff Brady. Featured speaker: Zelonia L. Williams Zelonia described her background and education, and explained how it led her to found Future Minds Literacy and Adult Education. Future Minds invites students, free of charge, to participate in a learning community that allows them to work at their own pace, address barriers to learning, and identify their personal learning styles — so that they may earn their GEDs. The program also includes an emphasis on life skills. She explained that some of the people she serves are not seeking GEDs, but simply want to improve their reading and comprehension skills. Rotarians are invited to support the program by purchasing materials needed by program participants. |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines: Nov. 16Jason Somers announced that his son Sam is now working at JDR Construction & Design. Jordan Chase reported that the Emmaus House Empty Bowl event raised $53,000. Lee Perry announced the Nov. 13 Savannah State University Scholarship Gala raised $250,000. Destiny Mojica-Taylor said she is closing on a house in two weeks. Cecilia Arango thanked Destiny for inviting her for coffee at the Blue Door. She complained that she received a $485 water bill, indicating a leak. Unfortunately, the plumber said leak is under concrete. |
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Copy of Brags, Finds, and Whines: Nov. 2Jason Somers announced that his son Sam is now working at JDR Construction & Design. Jordan Chase reported that the Emmaus House Empty Bowl event raised $53,000. Lee Perry announced the Nov. 13 Savannah State University Scholarship Gala raised $250,000. Destiny Mojica-Taylor said she is closing on a house in two weeks. Cecilia Arango thanked Destiny for inviting her for coffee at the Blue Door. She complained that she received a $485 water bill, indicating a leak. Unfortunately, the plumber said leak is under concrete. |
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Announcements Nov. 2Committee Reports President Cecilia Arango made members aware of the programming available from Rotary Works, including a program on “Navigating the Shark Infested Waters of the Workplace.” Cecilia reminded members of upcoming service opportunities including the Nov. 13 Blood, Sweat, and Beers fundraiser and the Girls on the Run 5K. Jeanine Roach and Denise Grabowski were thanked for volunteering at the Friends of Tide to Town Love Your Trail Day event. Program Committee Chair George Seaborough thanked everyone who attended the social at Sey Heys. He announced the next social event on Nov. 23 at 5:30 p.m. at 1790. Interact Liaison Sara Smith talked about the upcoming Preston Johnson Annual High School Speech Contest. Committee members will be needed to read through submissions. Contact her for more information. Georgia Rotary Student Program Host Florence Slatinsky said Sofie is doing well and recently attended a High School football game and will be attending a Georgia Southern University game soon. Membership Moment Joshua Yates described his work running the Green Truck Pub as, "living the dream." He left his career as an engineer 12 years ago because he loved the pace of working in restaurants. However, he still gets to apply his engineering training as a collector and restorer of pinball machines. He's also an internationally ranked competitive pinball player. Josh said he likes Metro because of its commitment to hands-on service. He said it's also a great way to meet people. Don't forget the Green Truck Pub Grand Re-Re-Re-Opening on Nov. 13 from noon-4 p.m. GuestsRo and Brad Patrick were the guests of Whitney Shephard Bill Horn was the guest of John Rodman Featured Speaker: Laura Lee Bocade Foundation Committee Chair Laura Lee Bocade reminded members that November is Foundation Month. The Foundation, she said, enables Rotarians to do much more in our areas of focus: Basic education and literacy; community economic development; disease prevention and treatment; maternal and child health; peace building; conflict prevention; and water, sanitation, and hygiene. She noted the new Foundation focus, environmental sustainability. For more information on Foundation giving, contact Laura Lee. |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines: Nov. 2Kelley Waldron thanked Cari Clark Phelps for her entrepreneurship presentation at St. Andrew's School. Sara Smith gave Cecilia Arango rave reviews for her Rocky Horror Picture Show performance. Jeff Brady he is seeking additional employees to join his firm. Lee Perry noted that Georgia beat Florida. Florence Slatinsky thanked everyone who has been involved in Emmaus House's Empty Bowl fundraiser. Josh Yates encouraged everyone to come out to Green Truck Pub's anniversary celebration on Nov. 13 starting at noon. Laura Lee Bocade announced Mountainfilm's Veteran's Day Program. Chelsea Swayer said she got to go trick-or-treating with her daughter for the first time. Cecilia Arango thanked everyone who attended Rocky Horror Picture Show performances and bragged on the Savannah Arts Academy Cross Country Team's recent victories. Julie Wade announced the hiring process for her successor at Park Place Emergency Shelter is underway and reminded everyone that November is National Runaway Prevention Month. |
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Announcements Oct. 19Committee Reports Immediate Past President Jessica Pedigo called the meeting to order. She reminded members that Oct. 24 is World Polio Day.  Membership Chair Katie Joyner announced that Emily Salzer and Derek Goldfarb have earned their yellow/red belts. Programs Chair George Seaborough encouraged members to attend the next social on Oct. 26, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Sey Hey’s, 2505 Bull St. He announced that Chatham County Commissioner Aaron Whitely will be the speaker at the Nov. 16 club meeting. Whitely will discuss funding available to the county through the American Recovery Act and Chatham County Teen Court. Literacy Chair Julie Wade announced the club will be working with Future Minds Literacy and Adult Education, Inc., which provides adult education including GED preparation. Metrotarians may consider purchasing books for use by program participants. Program Committee Chair Kristen Crawley thanked volunteers who helped with the Girls on the Run golf tournament. Upcoming volunteer opportunities include Friends of Tide to Town’s “Love Your Trail” clean-up day at the Truman Linear Park Trail on Oct. 23 and at Metro’s Blood, Sweat, and Beers fundraiser for Girls on the Run on Nov. 13. Membership Moment: Sam Hubbard Sam is a financial adviser who came back to Savannah from New York City, where he lived for 16 years after earning his undergraduate degree at Furman University. One of his specialties is guiding clients through financial decisions they will have to make if they enter divorce proceedings. His family includes his wife and two boys, ages 8 and 11. His favorite thing about Metro Rotary is “everyone in the room.”GuestsJ.J. Collins was the guest of Jasmine Mills. Liz Giddens was the guest of Laura Lee Bocade. Chase Cowart was the guest of Chris Corey. Brad Patrick was the guest of Josh Yates. Kristin King was the guest of Katie Joyner. Lauren Grout was the guest of Katie Balthrop. Cynthia Garrison and Joel deNeuf visited from the Rotary Club of Lawrenceville. Featured Speaker: Malena Gauss Gauss is the dynamic entrepreneur behind Savannah's first glass recycler. She described how Lammergeier Glass Recycling launched after her interior design/lighting business was hit hard by the pandemic. At present, Chatham County municipalities and private waste haulers are not recycling glass. However, she countered the idea that there is no market for recycling. In fact, she said, Georgia is the second largest market for crushed glass. She recently invested in new equipment that crushes glass into a larger size preferred by companies in the state. Gauss described the four step process of glass recycling: 1. Collection. 2. Transport to a material recovery facility. 3. Color sorting and cleaning. 4. Transport to a crushing facility. Lammergeier now has more than 700 residential customers. Gauss said she remains committed to her primary goal: Keeping glass out of landfills. |
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Fall Fundraiser Sponsors Needed! Help us raise money for Girls on the Run and have fun doing it! Become a fall fundraiser sponsorMetropolitan Savannah Rotary and Thomas & Hutton present "Blood, Sweat, and Beers" — a fundraiser benefiting Girls on The Run of Coastal Georgia and other nonprofits. The event will be held at Coastal Empire Brewing Company on Nov. 13 and features live music by DJ Jose Ray, snacks, shenanigans, and an amazing afternoon. We invite you to help make this event even more successful by becoming a sponsor at the following levels: |
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Announcements Oct. 3Committee Reports
President Cecilia Arango made members aware of Rotary Works, an initiative provided for Rotarians within Zones 33 and 34 who are experiencing career transitions. This initiative is comprised of three distinct programs, providing education, networking, and/or financial resources for participants. Our Blood, Sweat and Beers fall fundraiser for Girls on the Run is scheduled for Nov. 13. Sponsors are needed! Service Committee Chair Kristen Crawley reported Rotarians are invited to participate in the Tide To Town “Love Your Trail Day” on Oct. 23. Volunteers will clean up the Truman Linear Park Trail. Membership Moment: Chris Corey
Chris Corey is Metro’s sergeant-at-arms and the advertising director at Savannah Morning News & SavannahNow.com. Something you may not know about Chris: Years ago, the Savannah Sand Gnats brought in a stunt to help fill the ballpark. The gimmick was to have a stunt man run the bases while set on fire. They called Chris' name over the loudspeaker and asked if he wanted to light the stunt man on fire. Chris' first thought: "What if this guy gets hurt?" was outweighed by his second thought: "HELL YEAH! This is a unique experience." He went through with it and celebrated with the stunt man's family after the fact over some shots of Jack Daniels (not Jack Fire) and both made Sports Center a couple of days later. Chris' interest in joining the Metro Rotary family was to meet like-minded people who want to give back to the community, while spending time with a diverse group of folks that would become friends. Classification Talk: Derek Goldfarb
When he arrived in Savannah he was eager to meet people so he sought out civic organizations, which brought him to Metro. A New York native, he says sports are in his genes. He lives in Richmond Hill with with his wife Sara, and their children, Connor and Noelle, and beagle Lemmie.
GuestsZoe Rinker was the guest of Ellen Harris. Katrina Bostick was the guest of Julie Wade. Featured Speaker: Erin Wessling
The day centers will at as safe welcoming locations where individuals who are experiencing homelessness can go during the day and access support services. Because most shelters close during daytime hours, the day centers will fill an important need. Wessling said those who wish to help can make donations or sponsor advertising, community connects, and business partnerships. All funds raised goes directly to day center operations. |
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Announcements Sept. 21Committee Reports |
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Announcements Sept. 7Committee Reports President Cecilia Arango reviewed recent media coverage of Metro members, including a Forbes article that spotlighted Cari Phelps’ Salacia Salts and reporting on the grand opening of Habitat for Humanity Savannah’s new executive offices, which featured photos of CEO Zerik Samples and fellow Metro members. If you spot a Metrotarian in the news, email a link to metrosavannahrotary@gmail.com Program CommitteeThe Sept. 21 lunch meeting will be held at First Presbyterian Church, 520 Washington Ave. The featured speaker is District Governor Ed Presnell of the Rotary Club of Augusta. The September Social is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on Sept. 28 at Castaways in Sandfly. Service CommitteeA family-friendly Tybee Island Beach Clean-up will be held on Sunday Sept. 19 at 10 a.m. in observation of International Coastal Clean-up. We will meet at the Tybee Pier. Sign up here. Georgia Rotary Student ProgramSofie Bohl, who is a student at Georgia Southern University’s Armstrong Campus, gave the club an overview of her life in Sweden. Featured Speaker: Dr. Sametria McFall Dr. McFall is Interim Provost and Vice President at Savannah State University. She previously served as vice president for academic affairs at the university and has held numerous other roles at SSU. She earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Savannah State, and an additional master’s degree and a doctorate from Northeastern University. She provided an overview of the degree programs available at SSU. |
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Announcements Aug. 17Committee Reports President Cecilia Arango announced Rotary International President Shekhar Mehta’s Each One Bring One membership initiative. Each member is urged to invite a prospective member to a club meeting. When thinking about who you would like to invite, be intentional and consider the following: Is the prospective member service oriented? Do they have the time and level of commitment necessary to be an active Metro member? Remember, there are many local Rotary Clubs. Membership Committee Membership Committee Chair Katie Joyner explained the "New Member Obi Belt Process." In related news, Derek Goldfarb has now reached yellow belt status in the new member program. She also described methods Metrotarians can employ to identify prospective members including participating in community events, mentioning Rotary when you are asked about your leadership skills, identifying a missing classification and developing a plan to fill it, and making prospective members feel important. Rotarian ReaderReshma Shah Johnson directed members’ attention to Frank Bures’ article, “That’s What Friends Are For,” in the August issue of the Rotarian. The author notes a Paul Harris quote from the early 1990s, “There is no place like a city park on a Sunday afternoon to feel one’s loneliness. To me one essential was lacking, the presence of friends."Reshma shared information from the article that describes how friendships are established and how important they are. Loneliness is a health problem. Friendship is the cure, she said. Program CommitteeThe Sept. 7 lunch meeting will be held at Savannah State University. Featured speakers are Dr. Semetria McFall, interirm provost and vice president at SSU, and Sofie Bohl, GRSP student. The Sept. 21 meeting will be held at First Presbyterian Church. District Governor Ed Presnell is the speaker. InteractSarah Smith, Interact liaison for Woodville-Tompkins High School, reported the club will not be meeting in person, but has a YouTube channel allowing speakers to interact with students. The sessions are archived so other students can view later. Contact Sarah for more details about how to get involved. Georgia Rotary Student ProgramGeorgia Rotary Student Program Host Florence Slatinsky announced there are around 50 students in the program and for now they are interacting virtually instead of attending in-person events. GRSP Student Sofie Bohl will speak at our Sept. 7 meeting. Metrotarians in the News A Savannah Morning News article reported on Susan Kirk's work with the City of Tybee Island to investigate allegations of improprieties against a city official. GuestsRyan Smith was the guest of Liza Smith. Melissa Harvey was the guest of Jordan Chase. Kristen Baird was the guest of Cecilia Arango Sofie Bohl was the guest of Florence Slatinsky Featured Speaker: Tiffany Collins Tiffany explained how teaching at a technical college helped her learn that she had a lot to learn from her students, a perspective she continues in her current role as executive director of Girls on the Run of Coastal Georgia and Lowcountry. Founded in 2006, Girls on the Run has programs in all 50 states, Mexico, and Canada — but each local council must support itself 100%, she explained. Trained coaches lead small teams through a inclusive research based curricula, which includes dynamic discussions, problem solving, intentional decision making, and goal setting. The program serves around 1,400 girls with 50 teams each season, and two celebration runs per year. Some 70% of participants receive scholarships. GOTR is Metro's service partner for this year. Late Breaking News: Updates from After the MeetingJessica Pedigo, immediate past president, shared this executive assistant job opening. Please share with people you think would be interested. |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines Aug. 17 Cecilia Arango thanked Cindy Mullally for scheduling the location for the board photo shoot and praised Someari Benson-Jaja of Shot by Somi Studios for his work. She also gave a shout out to everyone who volunteered at the service project at Savannah Center for Blind and Low Vision. Lee Perry announced he is now an empty nester. He recently dropped off his daughter at college. Cecilia reported her son is in his final semester at the University of Georgia. |
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Announcements Aug. 3Committee ReportsPresident Cecilia Arango convened the meeting.  FoundationFoundation Committee Chair Laura Lee Bocade announced Metro’s newest Paul Harris Fellows: Kelley Boyd (+1) and Denise McCoy. Jasmine Mills attended the meeting and we were able to present her with her Paul Harris Fellow certificate and pin. Disaster ResponseDisaster Response Committee Chair Chelsea Sawyer invited members to join the committee after bribing everyone with freshly baked chocolate chip cookies. Contact her if you would like to get involved. As one of the tips offered to the club, she discussed her favorite (dripping in sarcasm) – the cone of uncertainty – and how misleading the cone can be. MembershipMembership Committee Chair Katie Joyner reviewed the steps in the new member program process: Prospective Member Responsibilities
Metro Member and Sponsor Responsibilities
Missed a meeting? Here are ways to get back on track:
ProgramProgram Chair George Seaborough announced upcoming events: Lunch Meetings
Social: Aug. 24 at 5:30 p.m. at Taste of India Fifth Tuesday of the Month Special Social: Aug. 31, 5:30 at Starland Yard ServiceService Committee Chair Kristen Crawley reminded members to donate business clothing to the Interact Club at Woodville Tompkins. Donate two pieces of business wear and you’ll receive one service credit for a maximum of three credits. Contact Kristen to coordinate drop-off. On Aug. 21 from 9 -11 a.m. Girls on the Run needs help packing snacks for the school year. The location will be announced soon. Contact Kristen for details. It’s time to start planning the annual service fundraising party. Email Kristen and Cecilia to volunteer. And save the date for a Tybee Beach Clean-up to be held on Sept. 21. LiteraryLiterary Committee Chair Julie Wade has established a partnership with Hubert Middle School, where 30 incoming 6th graders read at a pre-K level. An Amazon wish list will be created with required reading books to be sent directly to the school and volunteers will be needed to read to students. A volunteer training session will be scheduled soon, along with a writing and oratory contest in the spring, and an end of the year ice cream and pizza party to celebrate gains in literacy. To get involved, contact Julie. Georgia Rotary Student ProgramGeorgia Rotary Student Program Host Florence Slatinsky announced that Sophie Bohl arrived on Aug. 2. Florence will let us know of future dates where we can meet Sophie. Featured Speaker: Maryann Brickey, Live Oak Public Libraries Brickey, senior library manager at Southwest Chatham Library, shared some snapshots from 2020-2021. During that time the libraries had 722,424 visitors and 117,119 account holders. She reported that 849,367 items were checked out and 107,588 e-resources were downloaded, during the same period. Community engagement activities undertaken by the library system include a community book donation program, Ready Readers at Mercer Middle School, and the Books on the Go homebound mail service. Brickey also shared information on Live Oak’s early literacy, student success, access to technology, and economic empowerment support programs. In addition, she highlighted new innovation initiatives including Story Walk at the Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens, Literary Scavenger Hunts with Bike Walk Savannah, and the Seed Library with Chatham County Extension, Islands Farmers Market, and Forsyth Farmers Market. A donation to Girls on the Run in Brickey's name will be made by Metro. New Members Program Spotlight: Derek Goldfarb Goldfarb is director of partnerships for the new 9,500-seat Savannah Arena scheduled to open in 2022. As a member of the Oak View Group Facilities team, which will manage and operate the new Savannah Arena, he will be responsible for securing a naming rights partner, creating founding partners, and developing advertising and promotional relationships.Goldfarb is a nearly 20-year veteran of selling naming rights, sponsorship sales and premium seating for arenas and stadiums across the United States. He joins Oak View Group Facilities from the South Carolina Stingrays Hockey Team, an ECHL affiliate of the Washington Capitals, where he served as chief revenue officer overseeing advertising sales and business development. A Native New Yorker, Goldfarb resides in Richmond Hill with his wife Sara, and their children, Connor and Noelle, and beagle Lemmie. Late Breaking News: Updates from After the MeetingBeginning with the Aug. 17 meeting, face coverings will be required inside the J.E.A. except when members, guests, and speakers are eating. |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines Aug. 3Suzanne Kirk bragged on her custom ring created by Kristen Baird Jewelry. The ring includes birthstones for her family. |
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Announcements July 20Committee Reports Immediate Past President Jessica Pedigo presided over the meeting on behalf of President Cecilia Arango and announced that Metro has received three District Governor 6920 Awards: The Governor’s Gold Award, The Governor’s Best of the Best Award, and The Governor’s Superior Leadership Award to Jessica. She reminded members that they could earn meeting credits by attending Rotary EClub One meetings. Don’t forget to send your make-up info to metrosavannahrotary@gmail.com Foundation Committee Chair Laura Lee Bocade announced Metro’s newest Paul Harris Fellows: Ellen Harris, Elizabeth Summerell, Jamie Smith Arkins (+1), Spencer Burch, Jordan Chase (+1), Jasmine Mills, Cari Phelps (+1) and Patrick Phelps (+1).  Contact Program Chair George Seaborough for more information on these upcoming events:
Looking for Service Committee opportunities? 1. Donate two pieces of business attire to the Interact Business Clothing Drive. Receive one service credits for every two items donated for a maximum of three credits. 2. A beautification project will be held at the Savannah Center for Blind and Low Vision on Aug. 7. There will be one shift, held indoors, for 8-10 volunteers. Contact Service Committee Chair Kristen Crawley for more information. Sarah Bockel Smith, Interact liaison for Woodville-Tompkins High School, invited members to present to the club. You are not limited to talking about your career. You can also speak to the students about your involvement in the community and other topics. Contact Sarah for more details. Sophie Bohl of Sweden, the area’s Georgia Rotary Student Program participant, will be arriving in Savannah Aug. 2. Contact Florence Slatinsky if you would like to help welcome her to Savannah. Reshma Shah Johnson, The Rotarian Reader, directed the club's attention to Friends in Need from the July issue of The Rotarian. The article describes how an international relationship came full circle when clubs in India provided aid to Detroit in the early days of the pandemic. Metrotarians in the SpotlightBret Bell presented at the Savannah Rotary Club's recent meeting and Julie Wade’s was included in the University of Georgia Alumni Association Bulldog 100 for Park Place Outreach Youth Emergency Services. The list recognizes the fastest growing businesses and organizations owned or operated by UGA alumni in 2021. Membership Moment: Jamie Smith Arkins Jamie works in human resources, but talked about what she likes to do outside of work, including her love for live music. She’s looking forward to seeing Hamilton, one of her bucket list items. Jamie grew up in Valdosta and will be visiting this weekend for the first time since 2014. She said her favorite thing about being a Metro member is, “I get to be me!” GuestsNate Wayne, a loan officer with the Small Business Assistance Corporation, was the guest of Katie Joyner. Brad Trower, vice president of development for St. Joseph's/Candler, attended along with Chase Cowart, manager of strategic planning at the hospital. Brad is a member of the Statesboro Rotary Club. |
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Metro Rotary Announces New President and BoardMetro Announces New President and Board 2021-2022The Rotary Club of Metropolitan Savannah recently inducted its new slate of leadership for the 2021/2022 year at its July 6 meeting and is proud to announce its new Club President Cecilia Arango. Cecilia Arango is the marketing manager at engineering and consulting firm, Thomas & Hutton. She handles company-wide marketing, public relations, and communications for Thomas & Hutton’s 13 offices in Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee. Arango is passionate about service to the community and has been an active Rotarian with the Metropolitan Savannah Rotary since 2016. She has served on the board as communications chair and is a Paul Harris Fellow. In addition, Arango sits on various boards, including Savannah Sports Council, Savannah Repertory Theatre, and Park Place Outreach and is a community adviser for the Student Leadership Program. Named a Georgia Trend’s 40 Under 40 and a Savannah Magazine’s New Guard, Arango is an avid runner on a quest to run a marathon in each state and is the founder of local running book club, Read, Run & Rant, that was featured in Shape Magazine. She is a local actress/performer with the Bay Street Theatre and The Collective Face Theatre Ensemble. Arango is a graduate of Leadership Savannah and Leadership Southeast Georgia and is currently in the 2020/2021 Leadership Georgia class. She is happily married and has a son graduating this year from UGA and a daughter who will be a rising junior at Savannah Arts Academy. In addition to Arango, the 2018/2019 board includes President Elect – Will Gruver (Jan-Pro of SC/GA Coast), Immediate Past President – Jessica Pedigo (Sterling Seacrest Partners) Treasurer – Tony Uhrich (Hussey Gay Bell), Secretary – Jasmine Mills (Noom), Sergeant at Arms – Chris Corey (Savannah Morning News & SavannahNow), Program Chair – George Seaborough (Chatham-Savannah Citizen Advocacy) Service Chair – Kristen Crawley (United Way of the Coastal Empire), Communications Chair – John Bennett (Georgia Bikes/Valdosta State University), Membership Chair – Katie Joyner (Small Business Assistance Corporation), Foundation Chair – Laura Lee Bocade (Corporate Environments of Georgia), Family of Rotary Chair – Destiny Mojica-Taylor (scDataCom) and Members at Large – Jamie Smith Arkins (Help at Home LLC) and Jason Somers (JDR Construction & Design). |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines July 20Whitney Shephard bragged about the recent visit to Green Truck Pub by First Lady Jill Biden and Sen. Raphael Warnock, but would have liked to have received more notice from the Secret Service. Kelley Boyd bragged on Suzanne Kirk’s Daughter, Audrey, joined team at Savannah Yoga Center through its Energy Exchange program. If you know high school or college students who could benefit from a little yoga in their lives, please contact Kelley. Elizabeth Summerell bragged on Kelley Waldron for being on a DEI panel during a Junior League of Savannah training on July 10. John Rodman is chair of the Kicklighter Resource Center board of directors and announced they are seeking additional members to grow the board. Contact him if you are interested in serving. Reshma Shah Johnson announced that she has resigned from her position as town architect for The Ford Plantation. |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines June 15Orlando Montoya, a founding member of Metro, announced he is moving to Atlanta in July. Kristen Crawley said United Way of the Coastal Empire is looking for ambassadors and loaned executives for the annual campaign this fall. Contact her for details. George Seaborough reported that Zerik Samples has just purchased a new home. Tell him congratulations next time you see him! |
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Announcements June 1Committee ReportsPresident Jessica Pedigo confirmed the following people are currently in the New Members Program: John Rodman, Katie Balthrop, Destiny Mojica-Taylor, Meagen Burrows, and Chelsea Sawyer. She announced the end of the year party will be scheduled for late June and more information is coming. In the meantime, don’t forget to report your munch attendance. Leigh Ryan of World Trade Center Savannah will be the speaker at the June 15 meeting. Service Committee Chair Jordan Chase reported that details of the June service project with Bike Walk Savannah were still being worked out and she hoped they would be announced soon. UPDATE: Our June service project will be comprised of two street audit sessions in the Edgemere-Sackville neighborhood. The two sessions will take place on Monday, June 21 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. and on Saturday, June 26 from 8:30-10:30 a.m. Prior to the session volunteers will receive information about the process and instructions on how to download the mobile application, and the group will meet at the beginning of the audit session to answer any questions and receive their assignments. The signup link is now available. See email from Jordan for more information. Guests
Featured Speaker: Michael Traynor Michael said he was a little over 90 days into his role as CEO of Union Mission, but explained he has previously served as chair of the organization’s board of directors. Union Mission serves more than 700 people per year through its various departments, including individual programs that focused on women, women and children, men, special needs housing, permanent supportive housing, and mental health counseling. He said he was particularly excited about the conversion of the J.C. Lewis Health Center’s former location on Fahm Street into a shelter, which will serve unaccompanied women experiencing homelessness. Michael said his research indicates it’s the only such facility on the Georgia Coast. It will include 32 rooms and onsite counseling. Membership Moment: Cody Tharpe Cody said Tharpe Engineering Group recently celebrated its 10th anniversary. The structural engineering firm works on a wide range of commercial, industrial, preservation, and multi-family residential projects. When asked about his favorite Rotarian, Cody named Patton Dugas. Cody serves as Metro’s treasurer. |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines: June 1Chelsea Sawyer reminded everyone hurricane season begins on June 1. Jessica Pedigo confessed that she accidentally drove to First Presbyterian for the meeting instead of the JEA. |
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Announcements May 18President Jessica Pedigo reminded members of Metro’s 50% attendance minimum, which is more generous than many other clubs. Running low? You can earn attendance credits by:
Service Committee Jordan Chase thanked everyone who participated in bike and pedestrian counts with Bike Walk Savannah. She hopes to have more information on the June street audit project soon. Program Committee Report: Michael Traynor of Union Mission will talk about the organization’s Phoenix Project at the June 1 meeting. Don’t forget to report your Munch attendance to metrosavannahrotary@gmail.com A lively game of Metro Jeoparty (yes, you read that right) ensued with a fierce competition between teams quizzed on categories such as Pandemic Shift, Official-ish Rotary Things and Metro History. Winners walked away with priceless prizes of Hansen Architects mouse pads, Sterling Seacrest cups, Daniel Weiner Handyman pens and more. GuestsAlyssa Harvey was the guest of Jordan Chase Chelsea Sawyer (New Member Program) The following people are currently in the New Members Program: John Rodman, Katie Balthrop, Destiny Mojica-Taylor, and Meagen Burrows. |
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Announcements May 4
May 4 AnnouncementsCommittee ReportsMembership Committee Chair Cari Clark Phelps reported that four people are in the new member process: Katie Balthrop, Destiny Mojica-Taylor, Meagen Burrows, and John Rodman. All are nearing completion, except John, who just started the process. If your attendance is under 40% please contact Cari immediately. If you need attendance credit you should attend an e-club meeting, attend another local club meeting, donate $25 to one of our service partners, attend a Munch, or attend a board meeting. If you have changed careers or job descriptions, please update your classification in ClubRunner. President Jessica Pedigo said her car was broken into and many valuable items were taken, but miraculously the perpetrator had no use for the Rotary Robe. Also, if you are interested in helping plan the end of year party, email Jessica (even if you told her at the end of the meeting as she cannot retain anything from the meetings). This is a great way to get attendance credit if you are lacking! If you want to be on the steering committee for Metro’s Legacy Project, email her as well. Service Committee Chair Jordan Chase thanked everyone who has done bicycle and pedestrian counts with Bike Walk Savannah and said it was a great way to get kids involved in a service project. Volunteer opportunities have been extended through May 15. Sign up on the Bike Walk Savannah website. GuestsDerek Goldfarb was the guest of Cecilia Arango. Emily Salzer and Alyssa Harvey were the guests of Jordan Chase. Featured Speaker Leslie Mattingly of the St. Simons Island Rotary Club Leslie presented on the work Rotary has been doing in Puerto Rico with a Global Grant to encourage sustainable agriculture through a partnership with Para la Naturaleza, a nonprofit that focuses on conservation of natural ecosystems, and the San Juan and St. Simons Rotary Clubs. Because the majority of food consumed in Puerto Rico is imported, supplies were severely strained during natural disasters. The project trains local farmers and workers in associated industries on ways to supply restaurants and markets. Other education programs focus on teaching about nutrition and cooking with fresh ingredients. Metro was among the clubs that supported the program.Metro Mania Challenge UpdatePresident Elect Cecilia Arango announced that the Mighty Mighty Bruised Bones are the April Metro Mania Champions. To earn points in the May challenge, contribute to Brags, Finds, and Whines at a club meeting, bring a guest to a meeting, attend a social or service event. If you do all three, email Cecilia.  |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines: May 18Jordan Chase reported that Danny has suffered a full ACL tear and partial MCL and PCL tendon tears. UPDATE: The good news is his surgery is scheduled for July so they will still get to go to Jamaica! Cecilia Arango shared that her daughter, Julie Wade’s Daughter, and Suzanne Kirk’s daughter took third in the state 4x800 relay. Cecilia, Julie, and Suzanne sang karaoke and did some tequila shots to celebrate. Unfortunately, they were informed by their daughters that they are Cheugy. Lee Perry also bragged on his daughter’s recent successes on the St. Vincent’s Academy track team and mentioned that he has served as an assistant coach at SVA. Leigh Acevedo reported that the Savannah Economic Development Authority is now operating out of their new building on Drayton Street. SEDA will be holding some open houses this summer, but if anyone would like a tour before then, get in touch with Leigh. |
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Copy of Brags, Finds, and Whines: May 4Suzanne Kirk said she has recently done business with two fellow Rotarians: Reshma Johnson of Shah Architecture is designing her kitchen remodel and Kelley Boyd of Savannah Yoga Center led a yoga session for her birthday. She also mentioned her daughter, along with Cecilia Arango’s and Julie Wade’s daughters are members of the Savannah Arts Academy track team, which won the regional championship. Kelley Waldron announced that Wednesday, May 12 is Horizons Savannah’s Annual Giving Day. She is raising funds for them as a board member and has also contributed a $500 match for the first $500 donated. There is another match from an anonymous donor, which means every dollar donated is tripled. Her giving page is here. Any and all donations make a difference for students served by the program. Cecilia Arango announced that Derek Goldfarb, a guest at the May 4 meeting, is a contestant in the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Man and Woman of the Year program. To purchase a raffle ticket, visit www.teamlifesavers.com   |
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Announcements April 6 and 20
April 20 AnnouncementsCommittee ReportsMembership Committee Chair Cari Clark Phelps reminded the group that 50% attendance is required. She explained ways for members to boost their attendance, including online opportunities and supporting nonprofit organizations. Also, if your spouse is a club member, attendance is combined for your household. Still, we have a number of people who have dropped below 40%. We are offering assistance for people who are having financial hardships as well as a leave of absence option for members who cannot be involved at the moment, but who do not want to leave the club permanently. She invited members to contact her to discuss options, but stressed that many people want to become members and we want to offer them opportunities to become involved in the club without the club growing too large. She announced that John Rodman is entering the new members program. He is sponsored by Lee Perry and Ariana Berksteiner. Service Committee Chair Jordan Chase thanked everyone who helped at the Make A Wish Foundation 5K on Skidaway Island on April 17, including Jason Summers, Chelsea Sawyer, Zerik Samples, Sam Carroll and George Seaborough. The next service project is participating in Bike Walk Savannah’s bicycle and pedestrian counts at locations around town. The counts collect data on biking and walking traffic, which is used to plan for bike lanes, sidewalks, and trails. You can sign up for a date, time, and location via the BWS website. The counts continue into May, but you must register for a date in April to get service credit for this month. The May service project will also be with Bike Walk Savannah. Stay tuned for details. President Jessica Pedigo asked members to respond to a survey on preferences for meeting and social event formats. The survey also invites input on potential legacy projects the club could fund over several years. GuestsChelsea Sawyer (New Members Program) Katie Balthrop (New Members Program) Destiny Mojica-Taylor (New Members Program) Mary Francis was the guest of Erica Morrow Featured Speakers: Jessica Savage of WTOC-TVJessica moved to Savannah when she was in middle school and she graduated from Jenkins High School, but has worked in Texas for most of her career.  She called working at WTOC, a station she grew up watching, an amazing opportunity. Jessica praised the station for investing in investigative journalism as it requires a lot of time and resources. She said investigative reporting can also help solve problems in the community.As an example, she mentioned the recent sale of the Chatham Apartments building, which required residents to find new places to live. She was able to track down a resident who was having financial difficulties. After the story aired, someone called the newsroom offering to pay for her expenses. Later, Jessica did a follow-up story on the woman, who was able to find a place to call home at Live Oak Landing. She shared another story about how her reporting helped a resident find a long-term solution after trash and other debris was illegally dumped on his property. Jessica explained that this kind of reporting can have lasting, positive impacts in the community Metro Mania Challenge UpdateU |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines: April 20Lee Perry is participating in a fundraiser called Stop Soldier Suicide. The rate of soldier suicide is twice the national average. With the fundraiser comes the burpee challenge that he has also undertaken. For more information, visit his Facebook fundraiser. Lee is also arranging for the club to attend a Savannah State University Tigers football game in the fall. Elizabeth Summerell is now with Marcum, LLP. Katie Joyner said SBAC is looking for a (unpaid) summer intern, contact Katie for more information. Jessica Pedigo reminded everyone to Venmo donations to Cody Tharpe (@ctharpe11) if they have submitted a brag, find, or whine. |
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Announcements Feb. 16
Committee ReportsGeorge Seaborough reminded members about the Chatham-Savannah Citizen Advocacy take out food event and raffle fundraiser on Feb. 21 at Benedictine. The raffle remains open through Feb. 26 at 2:59 a.m. He thanked those who have already ordered. Julie Wade announced the Park Place Toss for a Cause event on March 6. President Jessica Pedigo announced that we are at 80% on Foundation giving and urged members to make their contributions by the end of the month. A fund has been established to donate on behalf of members who may not be able to otherwise. Contact her for more information. Service Committee Chair Jordan Chase reminded members we will be collecting running shoes for the Fleet Feet donation program. The shoes will go to local organizations that help unhoused people. Race medals will also be collected and given to children at Memorial who are completing their cancer treatments. Donations can be dropped off at the Savannah and Pooler Fleet Feet locations. Sign the attendance sheet while there to get credit. Program Committee Chair Daniel Weiner will have someone from the Savannah St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee speak to the group on March. 2. A representative of the Savannah Center for Blind and Low Vision will speak to the club at the March 16 meeting. He encouraged everyone to continue scheduling munches. On behalf of President Elect Cecilia Arango, Jessica Pedigo reminded members the February Metro Mania Challenge involves participating in the shoe and medal collection effort, supporting a Metrotarian owned business, and giving a shout-out to a Rotary member on social media. She also announced Will Gruver will be the next president-elect once Cecilia takes office. AV Support Needed: We had an issue with Wi-Fi at the meeting that presented unexpected challenges that we had to work with on the fly. If you have any experience in IT or audio/visual production, we welcome your assistance at our meetings! Please contact Jessica for details. Featured Speaker: David Pratt David began the presentation by announcing that he was stepping down from his position with the Savannah Music Festival to become chief executive officer at the Austin Symphony Orchestra. He explained how the Savannah festival is different from others in that it does not focus on a single genre. Instead, it features performers from American roots music (blues, bluegrass, etc.) international music, jazz, and classical. Pratt said that in 2019, the festival resulted in $10.05 million in direct spending, $7.65 million in visitor spending, and $852,344 in sales and hotel tax revenue. The festival generated 8,916 room nights and 1,783 flights.He described how festival staff worked to pivot to bring programs — especially educational programs —online so they could continue to reach participants during the pandemic. They also studied how outdoor concerts in Florida and Tennessee were able to be staged while maintaining Covid protocols. The plan for 2021 is to use the outdoor performance space at Trustees Garden at reduced capacity. Pratt said Coastal Health District Director Dr. Lawton Davis is a supporter of the festival and has offered consultation on how to maximize safety. Membership Moment: Jason Nielubowicz Jason talked about his work in commercial and residential real estate at Judge Realty. As most people know, Jason is an avid live music fan and if not for the pandemic would be out seeing music every night. He has had a large collection of vintage motorcycles, which once totaled 14 machines. Now he’s down to two BMWs. He said he's lucky to be alive, having been shocked with 7,620 volts of electricity from a downed power line in 2007. |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines: Feb. 16Anne Kuhlke-Lee showed off her new baby, Grady, who attended the meeting with her via Zoom. Sarah Smith thanked Julie Wade and Denise Grabowski for working hard to get children back in schools. She also bragged on Fleet Feet and how great her experience and new shoes are. Kristen Crawley whined that she learned of Anne’s pregnancy during the pandemic and Grady is now 5 months old and we are still in the pandemic! |
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Announcements Feb. 2
Committee ReportsPresident Jessica Pedigo reminded members about the Chatham-Savannah Citizen Advocacy take out food event and raffle fundraiser on Feb. 21 and the Park Place Toss for a Cause event on March 6. Service Committee Chair Jordan Chase announced we will be collecting running shoes for the Fleet Feet donation program. The shoes will go to local organizations that help unhoused people. Race medals will also be collected and given to children at Memorial who are completing their cancer treatments. Donations can be dropped off at the Savannah and Pooler Fleet Feet locations. Program Committee Chair Daniel Weiner announced that David Pratt of the Savannah Music Festival will be the speaker on Feb. 16. Family of Rotary Chair Jasmine Mills said she will be taking over the secretary position this summer. She asked everyone to send attendance documentation and other correspondence to the metropolitansavannahrotary@gmail.com account. Foundation and Grants Committee Chair Patrick Phelps reported we are extremely close to meeting our Every Rotarian Every Year giving goal. If you have not made your foundation contribution yet, please do so by the end of February. President Elect Cecilia Arango announced the February Metro Mania Challenge involves participating in a service project, supporting a Metrotarian owned business, and giving a shout-out to a Rotary member on social media. GuestsZerik Samples was a guest at the meeting. He is CEO of Coastal Empire Habitat for Humanity and, before moving to Savannah, he was a member of the Rotary Club of St. Simons. Featured Speaker: Jackson Evans In a presentation featuring musical interludes, Jackson Evans talked about his work at Benedetto Guitars, which Bob Benedetto founded in 1968 to build archtop jazz guitars. Jackson explained the mechanics of guitars and their evolution over the years, describing the design elements that allow louder volumes while still maintaining structural integrity. He demonstrated the features and acoustics of several guitars, including an instrument built in Chicago between 1886 and 1890. Although archtops are often called jazz guitars, they are used in other genres. He cited Maybelle Carter of the Carter Family as a noted archtop player. Benedetto produces 80-100 guitars per year, with the highest end models costing $20-50,000. Membership Moment: Cynthia Mullally Cindy said the highest profile event she’s managed in her role as an event planner was a 2012 event focusing on the nation’s economic recovery, featuring President Bill Clinton and President George Bush. She is married to Matt Toole and her most famous relative is her cousin Tommy Norden, who played Bud Ricks on the television show, “Flipper.” Cindy also talked about how much she enjoys living in Gordonston. |
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Announcements Jan. 19
Committee ReportsPresident Jessica Pedigo said she was pleased to see everyone actively involved in scheduling Munch meetings. She also announced that Josh Yates is a Paul Harris Fellow once again. Jessica reminded members they have until the end of February to make a donation of $50 or more. At present, 64% of the club has donated. If your financial situation does not permit a donation, a fund has been established so that a donation can be made in on your behalf. For more information, contact Jessica. Service Committee Chair Jordan Chase thanked everyone who volunteered at PACK on Jan. 18 and at Emmaus House on Jan. 9 The February service project will involve collecting running shoes for Fleet Feet and their donation program, as well as race medals that will go towards children at Memorial who are completing their cancer treatments. Program Committee Chair Daniel Weiner told members that Jackson Evans of Benedetto Guitars will be the Feb. 2 speaker and David Pratt of the Savannah Music Festival will present on Feb. 16. Daniel announced that he has moved to Arizona, but will continue involvement in the club remotely. GuestsChelsea Sawyer was the guest of Sarah Smith. Featured Speaker: Wayne Ashford Wayne Ashford of Ashford Tea Company explained how he built up his café business in Indianapolis. About 13 years ago he and his wife started talking about moving and created a list of the qualities they wanted in a community. Eventually they visited Savannah, explored the city, and started coming back every year — sometimes twice a year. They moved to Savannah almost three years ago.He said tea has always been a constant in his life, but when he discovered loose tea, it changed his world. For the last 20 years he’s been teaching people about tea. Wayne described his business as being about a lifestyle, and not just a retail venture. He explained the health benefits of teas and said his shop on Oglethorpe Avenue now stocks more than 60 varieties. Membership Moment: Alfred McGuire Alfred McGuire is principal at Woodville Tompkins High School. He offered some facts that people might not know about him: Alfred is really excited about this year’s Metro Mania theme as he attended WrestleMania when it came to Tampa. He also loves running, but is not able to at this time because he is recovering from foot surgery. Alfred said his son often picks out a tie for him to wear each morning. |
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Announcements Jan. 11
Committee ReportsPresident Jessica Pedigo announced that the Metro Mania Showdown Series was a success, raising $15,317.91 and fully funding the requests made by Bike Walk Savannah and Urban Hope. She thanked everyone who volunteered, bought tickets, or sponsored events. Service Committee Chair Jordan Chase thanked everyone who volunteered at Emmaus House on Jan. 9. The next service opportunity is Jan. 18 from 5:30 - 7 p.m. at P.A.C.K. District Governor Steve Barnes will join the volunteers. Program Committee Chair Daniel Weiner announced Wayne Ashford of the Ashford Tea Co. will be the speaker at the Jan. 19 meeting. Foundation and Grants Committee Chair Patrick Phelps reported we are at 60% on foundation donations and getting closer to our Every Rotarian Every Year contribution goal. Donations of at least $50 are appreciated and can be made here. If you are not in a financial position to make a donation, please contact Jessica Pedigo. A fund has been established to make donations on behalf of members who are not able to do so. GuestsKylie Carrico was the guest of Julie Wade. Fitz Hale was the guest of Jordan Chase. Katie Balthrop is in the New Member Program and also attended the meeting. Guest/Prospective Member ReminderMetro Rotary welcomes all guests to club meetings, socials and service projects! Please introduce your guests and, if on Zoom, make sure they turn their cameras on so we can actually meet them. If your guest is interested in potential membership, please let Cari Phelps (Membership Chair) know as soon as possible. There is a vetting process for membership so everyone must go through the proper steps in order to be approved for the New Member Program. The process includes being listed in Rotary Repeats (including a headshot, preferably, their name, employer/job, and two sponsors), attending at least three meetings (including one Service Project) and submitting an application to the Membership Committee for approval. As a member of Metro, if you have a conflict with a potential new member, whether professional, personal, or otherwise, please notify the Membership Chair (Cari) or President (Jessica). Featured Speakers: Katrina Bostick, Kate Blair, and Julie Wade Katrina Bostick of Family Promise, Kate Blair of CASA Savannah, and Julie Wade of Park Place Outreach talked about their work and the realities faced by people living in poverty. The three nonprofit leaders have been collaborating and working to improve conditions in the community in different capacities. Members were reminded that conversations about poverty in Savannah must include discussion of racial equity and generational wealth. In addition, the myth that people choose to live on public assistance and can do so comfortably is a myth rooted in racism. They talked about the struggles of families living at or below the poverty line, and how difficult it is for them to stay housed and cover other expenses while working at minimum wage jobs. The loss of employment will throw people into poverty and right now almost 36% of working families with full time jobs or multiple part time jobs are living under the poverty line. The situation is made worse by systemic and structural racism, predatory lending, people who are unbanked or underbanked, high housing costs, undiagnosed mental health issues, substance use disorders, high childcare costs, and low wages. Those interested donating to these organizations and others working to improve conditions should make unrestricted donations, which allow nonprofits to be more responsive to changing conditions. View their PowerPoint presentation for more information. Membership Moment: Patton Dugas Patton shared things fellow members probably know about him and other facts they may not. Patton is market president for Truist Bank in Savannah. Before he moved to Savannah and became a banker, he founded an audio/video contracting business that allowed him to "hang out with a bunch of musicians and roadies." He described himself as a "reformed hippie" who had long hair and wore flip flops. He shared a story of attending an event shortly after arriving in Savannah and being mistaken for Robert McCorkle. |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines Feb. 2Daniel Weiner announced Justin Hummel is running for mayor of Bloomsburg, Pa. Katie Joyner bragged on Jessica Pedigo for inviting Zerik Samples to the outing at Wormsloe Historic Site. After the presentation from Wayne Ashford at the Jan. 19 meeting, Sarah Smith said she visited Ashford Tea Company and purchased a tea she has enjoyed. Jessica Pedigo announced an American Red Cross program aimed at increasing the number of Black blood donors in an effort to battle sickle cell disease. A blood drive is being held at Savannah State University on Feb. 18.
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Brags, Finds, and Whines: Jan. 11Julie Wade announced that since it is not possible to hold the annual gala this year, Park Place Outreach is hosting a corn hole fundraiser on March 6 at Southbound Brewing Company. She is currently seeking sponsors for the event. George Seaborough reported that Chatham-Savannah Citizen Advocacy would not be able to hold its annual oyster roast fundraiser. Instead, he is organizing a drive-through pick-up event. For $20 you'll get barbecue chicken fingers with two sides in a roll. They will also have a raffle. More details will be announced soon. Denise Grabowski said she had a great experience buying new running shoes at Fleet Feet and wanted to brag on Mike Nadeau and his employee Jacob. Jessica Pedigo thanked the Family of Rotary Committee for sending an email and card celebrating her Rotary anniversary. She whined that she missed Erika Morrow's ForSight Eye Care New Year's Eve celebration.
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Brags, Finds, and Whines: Dec. 1Leigh Acevedo said, "It’s cold and that’s my whine." Katie Joyner bragged on Julie Wade for organizing the Metro Mania Scavenger Hunt. Jasmine Mills announced she is now group coach at Noom. Julie Wade reminded the meeting that several nonprofit professionals are members of our club and many others serve on nonprofit boards. She encouraged everyone to support them on Giving Tuesday and for the rest of the year.
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Announcements Nov. 10
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Metro Mania Showdown Series
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Announcements Oct. 20
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Featured Speaker: Vaughnette Goode-Walker Vaughnette Goode-Walker, director of the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum, was the speaker at Metro's Oct. 6 meeting. She led an online tour of the building, which tells the story of Savannah's Civil Rights movement. She explained how the museum's design takes visitors along a timeline that begins at the museum's entrance on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. Goode-Walker said the first thing people want to know is, "Who was Ralph Mark Gilbert and what did he do to get a museum named after himself?" Gilbert was a pastor, a radio show host, organizer of around 40 NACCP chapters around the state, and a mentor to W.W. Law. An archive of his sermons, WTOC-AM radio scripts, and other documents was established at the museum about a year ago. |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines: Nov. 17
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Brags, Finds, and Whines: Nov. 10
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Brags, Finds, and Whines: Oct. 20
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Announcements Oct. 6Membership Moment: Sara Holton Sara was Born in Springfield, Missouri, moved to Marietta when she was 9, then Savannah when she was 16 years old. She graduated from Savannah Christian, then went on to Georgia Southern. She has two children and has been married for 14 years. She has been working in the commercial furniture field since 2003. Her favorite aspects of her work are getting to know clients, identifying what they need, and determining how she can help them.Committee ReportsService Committee Chair Jordan Chase thanked the members who completed "Something from Nothing" videos for Loop it Up Savannah. There are three spots still open for the Girls on the Run golf tournament on Oct 15. Sign up here. The October service project is being coordinated with the Great Savannah Cleanup on Oct. 24 and specifically the Victory Volunteers effort, which will work to pick up trash and trim back overgrown vegetation along Victory Drive. Program Committee Chair Daniel Weiner announced the next speaker is Dave Lake, program director at WRUU, Savannah's all-volunteer community radio station. Daniel is also planning a social ride on the Truman Linear Park Trail to celebrate Bike Walk Savannah's Moonlight Garden Rides. He is also working to arrange a virtual tour of the Graveface Museum. Membership Chair Phelps reported that Sarah Stone has nearly completed the new member program. Foundation Chair Patrick Phelps announced that Sara Holton and Brad Whitfield are Metro's newest Paul Harris Fellows. In addition, Josh Yates is PHF+3, Whitney Shephard is PHF+4, Daron Alvord is PHF+5, and Robert McCorkle is PHF+8. In all, Metro has 46 Paul Harris Fellows. You can make a donation here and check your PHF status here. Metro Mania standings updatedThe Piledriver Posse continues to lead the Metro Mania standings. Power up your team's points by:
GuestsMeagen Burroughs attended as a guest of George Seaborough. Destiny Mojica-Taylor attended as a guest of Cari Phelps. Katie Balthrop attended as a guest of Daniel Weiner. Commit to a committee!All Metro members are expected to serve on a committee. Contact the appropriate committee chair to volunteer: Service: Jordan Chase Rotary Foundation: Patrick Phelps Membership: Cari Phelps Communications: John Bennett Family of Rotary: Jasmine Mills Program: Daniel Weiner |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines: Oct. 6,Kristen Crawley announced Ready-Pedi-go, an event to celebrate Jessica Pedigo‘s 40th birthday. The 13.1 mile event is Saturday, Dec. 12 and starts at your own time. All are invited to participate and celebrate Jessica’s birthday! For anyone that is interested call Kristen Crawley at 678-232-7241. Suzanne Kirk invited members to follow her competition with Julie Wade in the Susan G. Komen Coastal Georgia Race Where You Are event. Check them out on Facebook. The Junior League of Savannah was forced to cancel its annual Thrift Sale due to the ongoing pandemic, Elizabeth Summerell reported. Instead the League will be collecting donations to give to some of its community partners including Ronald McDonald House, Safe Shelter, Park Place, and Over the Moon Diaper Bank. Jordan Chase reminded meeting attendees that tickets are still available for Emmaus House's Empty Bowl Fundraiser on Nov. 1. The online silent auction for handmade bowls begins Oct. 19. Whitney Shephard shared the story of how Josh Yates, who was trained an engineer, decided that he wanted to open a restaurant. A decade later, Green Truck Pub is celebrating its 10th Anniversary with a fundraiser for Loop It Up Savannah, a children's art contest, and giving gift cards to educators. George Seaborough announced he has launched a fundraising challenge for Chatham Savannah Citizen Advocacy. |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines: Sept. 15 Kristen Crawley announced she is now working with the United Way of the Coastal Empire as United Way ambassador. Cari Phelps: Thanked William McIntosh for helping her with some science-related questions. Leigh Acevedo shared the news that she has found a new childcare provider and is hoping for a smooth transition. Jordan Chase said Emmaus House is seeking additional sponsors for its Empty Bowl fundraiser on Nov. 1. |
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AnnouncementsNews from the Sept. 15 MeetingMembership Moment: Justin Hummel Justin has moved back to Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania, a small university town. He had been running restaurant, but it has been closed since April. Now he's using the kitchen to produce four different kinds of pierogis that he and his wife sell at the farmers' market on weekends. Justin has been elected to the town council, serves on the library board, and is working on a plan to reopen the municipal pool.Committee ReportsService Committee Chair Jordan Chase reminded everyone to work on their Loop it Up "Something from Nothing" videos. Metro will help with a Victory Drive clean-up effort in conjunction with the City of Savannah's Great Savannah Cleanup on Oct. 24. Details to come. Through the end of the year, members who are concerned about participating in in-person events may make a $25 donation in lieu of attending. Service Committee Chair Emeritus William McIntosh reported that Girls on the Run has not seen registration sufficient to continue as our service partner this year. As a result, we will shift to Bike Walk Savannah as the sole service partner for the year. We will still need volunteers to help with the Girls on the Run golf tournament on Oct. 15. Membership Chair Cari Phelps reported that Sarah Smith is nearing completion of the new member intake process. Ellen Harris was inducted into Metro during the meeting. Foundation Chair Patrick Phelps announced we have reached the 50 percent mark on foundation giving. He encouraged members to check their Paul Harris Fellow progress. Family of Rotary: If you would like to earn additional points, you can help Jasmine Mills send out birthday and anniversary cards. Other AnnouncementsAlfred McGuire is sponsoring a Rotaract program at Woodville-Tompkins High School. He is looking for volunteers to participate in 15-minute virtual interviews in which they will share tips for success and insights to help the leaders of tomorrow. The Grizzly Misfits are the current Metro Mania leaders. GuestsKatie Balthrop attended as a guest of Daniel Weiner. Commit to a committee!All Metro members are expected to serve on a committee. Contact the appropriate committee chair to volunteer: Service: Jordan Chase Rotary Foundation: Patrick Phelps Membership: Cari Phelps Communications: John Bennett Family of Rotary: Jasmine Mills Program: Daniel Weiner Featured Speaker: Kevin Van Den Wymelenberg Dr. Van Den Wymelenberg is director of the University of Oregon's Energy Studies in Buildings Laboratory in Eugene and Portland, Oregon. He discussed the critical role buildings play in supporting public health, as indicated by the first thing we did after the pandemic began: We vacated buildings. His research centers on microbiomes within buildings. Pathogens are detected using surface swabs, passive air settling in collection vessels, and collecting samples using active air pumps. Samples are sent through RNA sequencing to determine virus presence and concentrations. He said safer and healthier buildings can be designed with a blend of old and new technology. For example, they could feature windows that can be opened to improve ventilation along with viral monitoring technology. |
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AnnouncementsNews from the Sept. 1 MeetingMembership Moment: Jasmine Mills Jasmine shared her work over the last working as a fitness trainer/nutrition coach, and she led the meeting through some healthy stretching exercises while doing it. She is also studio manager at Salacia Salts. Born in Macon, she moved to Savannah five years ago. Jasmine and her wife Brandi are now in the process of becoming foster parents. She reminded the meeting attendees that these days when we may be spending long days sitting in front of our screens, it's important to get up and move! Committee ReportsPresident Jessica Pedigo reminded members to complete the Munch Survey. Service Committee Chair Jordan Chase announced that the September service project will be virtual. We'll work with Loop it Up on the organization's "Something from Nothing Challenge." Check your inbox for an email from Jordan with all the details. At our next meeting, Prof. Kevin Van Den Wymelenberg will talk about how to manage office spaces during the pandemic. If you have ideas for future speakers, please contact Program Chair Daniel Weiner. Membership Chair Cari Phelps reported there are two members in the training program. Foundation Chair Patrick Phelps reminded members that a recurring foundation donation earns 10 Metro Mania points, a one time donation earns five. Wondering how to make a donation? Watch this video. Metro Mania standings updated The Piledriver Posse is now leading the Metro Mania standings. Power up your team's points by:
And enter those September points! GuestsJeff Grant attended as a guest of Suzanne Kirk. Armand Turner attended as a guest of Denise Grabowski. Commit to a committee!All Metro members are expected to serve on a committee. Contact the appropriate committee chair to volunteer: Service: Jordan Chase Rotary Foundation: Patrick Phelps Membership: Cari Phelps Communications: John Bennett Family of Rotary: Jasmine Mills Program: Daniel Weiner Featured Speaker: Beth Nelson of the Savannah Regional Film Commission Beth Nelson, executive director of the Savannah Regional Film Commission, was the speaker at the Sept. 1 meeting. Part of the Savannah Economic Development Authority, the commission works in three broad areas:
Productions are looking for the best bang for their buck and SEDA has offered a number of incentives including a $25,000 bonus for hiring local crew members. The economic impact of local television and film production has grown from $18.1 million in 2014 to $125.6 million in 2019. Nelson noted MovieMaker Magazine has named Savannah the "best place to live and work as a film producer" and she said two developments that could further boost film production in Savannah include a purpose-built sound stage and direct flights between Savannah and Los Angeles. |
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Brags, Finds, and Whines: Sept. 1, 2020Jasmine Mills and her wife are in the process of becoming foster parents and needed to undertake some home improvement projects. She praised Daniel Weiner for doing a great job with the work and keeping her informed and on budget during the projects. Denise Grabowski reminded everyone to complete the Census online if you have not already. Jamie Smith Arkins thanked Orlando Montoya for hosting another online trivia night. Ben Senger announced that Nexstar Media Group, which owns WSAV, launched a new primetime national newscast on WGN America on Sept. 1. "News Nation" will air daily from 8 - 11 p.m. and will feature stores from local stations around the country, including WSAV. Bret Bell will be performing in an online standup comedy show benefiting Performance Initiatives Savannah. He will share more details soon. Cari Phelps announced the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force 2020 Wick Searcy Memorial Clay Shoot, which is scheduled for Sept. 25 at Forest City Gun Club. The event is named in memory of Amelia Harper's father, who was chairman of the board of the museum. For more information, email Amelia.
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AnnouncementsNews from the Aug. 18 MeetingMembership Moment: H. Lee Perry Lee Perry talked about his work as business manager for the Savannah State University Foundation, where he oversees all the private and public ventures — he's also an SSU alumnus. Lee shared details of his family's deep roots in Savannah and talked about his previous work at Morgan Stanley, BB&T, and Carver State Bank. He's served on the board of the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and is a past president of the 100 Black Men of Savannah. He continues to give back to the community by mentoring young people. Classification Talk: Sarah Smith Sarah Smith, director of digital content and marketing at WTOC-TV, shared how she works toward the goals of maintaining the station's digital dominance, discovering new audiences, and growing revenues. She explained the tools and tactics she uses in her work, including social media measurement. In addition to the field of broadcasting, she has also used her communications skills in the healthcare industry. She has lived in Savannah for 10 years.Service Partner Presentations  Caila Brown, executive director of Bike Walk Savannah, gave an overview of the organization's work to improve safety and mobility in Savannah neighborhoods that might not have received the attention they deserved in the past. Leah Kessler, executive director of Girls on the Run of Coastal Georgia and Low County, described how participation in GTR helps girls build confidence, and how she is adapting to the pandemic through virtual programming. Stay tuned to hear more about upcoming service projects. GuestsJeff Grant attended as a guest of Suzanne Kirk. Donna Pfendler attended as a guest of Mike Nadeau. Rachel Cretella attended as a guest of Laura Lee Bocade.  Recordings of Previous Infinite Possibilities Webinars Are Now AvailableIf you missed Dr. Sylvia Whitlock speaking about being the first female President in Rotary and how her club fought RI in court and went to the Supreme Court to allow females in Rotary, you can view it here. |
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AnnouncementsMembership Moment: Erika Morrow Erika Morrow of ForSight talked about her work and offered the follow advice for summertime eye health:
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Featured Speaker Aug. 4Featured Speaker: Ravi Vadlamadi Ravi Vadlamadi was the featured speaker at the Aug. 4 Metropolitan Savannah Rotary Club meeting. Vadlamadi provided a progress report on The Happy Schools project, which was started by Rotarians in India who saw the need in rural schools. Many students do not have access to proper sanitation at home, let alone at school, need education about basic hygiene and some do not have even a desk to sit at in the classroom. The program address is these issues. The grant funds nine schools in the area around Narasaraopet near Gunter in Andhra Pradesh, India. He was joined at our virtual meeting by Raja Reddy and Vinita Harnathka.
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Announcements Metro Inducts 2020/21 BoardThe Metro Savannah Rotary Club recently inducted its new slate of leadership for the 2020/2021 year at the July 14 club meeting and is proud to announce its new Club President, Jessica Pedigo. The 2020/2021 board includes President – Jessica Pedigo (SterlingSeacrest Partners), President Elect – Cecilia Arango (Thomas & Hutton), Treasurer – Cody Tharpe (Tharpe Engineering), Secretary – Will Gruver (Jan-Pro of SC/GA Coast), Sergeant at Arms – Daniel Weiner (Handyman Service Experts), Service Chair – Jordan Chase, Communication Chair – John Bennett (Georgia Bikes), Membership Chair – Cari Phelps (Clark Creative Communications), and Foundation Chair – Patrick Phelps (Hansen Architects, P.C.) Family of Rotary Chair – Jasmine Mills (Salacia Salts) and Immediate Past President –Bret Bell (City of Savannah). Pictured above are the 2020-2021 board members photographed from a safe distance.  We have a knack for P.A.C.K.For our July service project, we helped pack at P.A.C.K. Savannah, which helps multiple organizations in Savannah pack supplies and food, and currently distributes around 10,000 bags of food to local children each month. On July 28, Metro Rotarians “packed” the warehouse to help put together meal kits and back to school packs for our community’s schools and neighbors. What an amazing organization we’re proud to support. See all the school supplies? A big pat on the back to our members who helped make back to school easier for the kids.
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Featured Speakers Coach Shawn Quinn spoke to us about the Savannah State University Tigers football team at our July 21 meeting. Quinn became the 26th head football coach at SSU in March 2019. Only the second head coach in the program’s 100 plus year history to post a winning record in an inaugural coaching season, he described the tactics he uses to keep his team motivated and focused on their goals. Quinn also answered question about the team’s move from Division I to Division II, and his efforts to recruit players from Savannah and Coastal Georgia. The native of Chicago also talked about living on Tybee and riding his bicycle around the island to relax. Prior to being selected head coach, he served as interim head football coach at Savannah State from December 2018-March 2019. He was hired by the Tigers in February of 2018 as the defensive coordinator and linebackers coach. Photo courtesy of Savannah State University Athletics
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Brags, Finds, & Whines Brags, Finds, and WhinesYou don't have to build your own finder. We've got your Brags, Finds, and Whines right here.
Please send your Brags, Finds, and Whines to johnreidbennett@gmail.com in order to be included in Repeats.
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Brags, Finds, & Whines Hear Ye, Hear Ye! Please send your Brags, Finds, and Whines to arango.c@tandh.com in order to be included in Repeats.
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Announcements THIS IS HOW WE DO IT! Montell Jordan wrote a hit song in the 90s, wanna hear it? Hear it go! "Honeys in the street say, "Metro, yo we made it! You gotta get your groove on, before you go get paid So tip up your cup and throw your hands up And let me hear you all say EREY" As a Club, we pledged 100% club participation to have Every Rotarian Every Year - meaning each Rotarian contributes at least $100. Thank you all for making it happen and a big shout out to Patrick Phelps for herding all the cats!  VOLUNTEER FOR ANNUAL SERVICE PARTNER SELECTION COMMITTEE William McIntosh is looking for volunteers to help serve on the ASP Committee. Contact William at womcintosh@gmail.com  CALLING ALL READERS!! March 25th at 9 AM at Brock Elementary School We're participating in the Rotary Read-In on March 25th at Brock Elementary School. Registration deadline was Feb 25th (however, registration is still open). When you sign up, you are volunteering to read a book to students and then donating that book to the school. This is a rewarding and easy way to volunteer. E Shaver Bookseller has suggested titles once you find out what grade level you'll be reading to and will be offering a 20% discount. Sign up at https//savannahrotaryreadin.com and also register with Metro. See Sam Caroll's email for more information. LOOPING LITERACY TOGETHER If anyone is interested in reading regularly through Looping Literacy Together at Brock Elementary, please email carmen@loopitupsavannah.com.  WHO'S GETTING LEIED? DISTRICT CONFERENCE - JEKYLL ISLAND ON APRIL 24-26 Join the party as we head on down to Jekyll Island for the District Conference on April 24-26. In recognition of the 2020 RI Convention being held in Honolulu, the district conference will be Polynesian-themed, featuring Polynesian menus and entertainment. It'll be fun to go as a group and all events are casual. Contact Bret Bell for more information!  MARCH 31 METRO FIELD TRIP WITH ORLANDO! Orlando Montoya is offering Metrotarians a 2-hour tour of historic downtown Savannah on Tues, March 31st. If you're interested, please email Orlando at o.montoya@comcast.net for more details!  REMINDER: NO MEETING ON MARCH 17. WE CELEBRATE BIRTHDAY SHENANIGANS ON MARCH 24TH! We're going to have a kick-ass birthday celebrating US! Metro turns 9! We'll have some exciting announcements (HINT! HINT!) to prepare for the inaugural "summer games". Come join in the celebration!  ANOTHER ROASTARY IN THE BOOKS! Thanks to the incredible planning team, including Jordan Chase, Jessica Pedigo, Liza Smith, and Kristen Crawley on organizing such an incredible event! We couldn't have asked for a better Sunday. The oysters were delicious and the music with Jason Salzer was perfect! A big shout-out to hosts, Patrick and Cari Phelps for hosting us in your backyard. In addition, congratulations to Liza Smith and Julie Wade as our winners in the Chili Cook-Off! |
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GuestsA big warm welcome to the following guests who attended our last meetings:
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Featured Speakers Dare Dukes spoke about his role as director of Deep Center, a non-profit that empowers Savannah’s young people to thrive as learners, community leaders, and agents of change. Through creative writing, cultural production, and art, Deep creates platforms for the city’s youth and the village of support around them, including their families and adult allies, to share stories, engage in debates, and make Savannah a more just and equitable place. More than just an after-school program, Deep works not just with youth but the village and systems surrounding young people. The aim is to lift up Savannah’s youth and families by directly supporting them while working to change the institutions and systems harming them. .jpg) Erika Morrow spoke about her role as an optometrist with her eye care boutique located in downtown Savannah - ForSight Eye Care. Her boutique playfully borrows from Forsyth Park. She was introduced to Metro Rotary through a fellow Metrotarian and builder, Josh Brooks. She is the only one in her large immediate family who attended college and she's a huge dog person. As an eye doctor, she's like your primary care physician for eyes and doesn't do surgery. Erika gives back to the community in many ways - one of them being a participant in the InfantSEE program which offers no-cost eye assessments for infants 6-12 months.
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Featured Speakers Chrissy Edwards spoke about her role as director of Horizons Savannah, the local chapter of one of America's best summer learning programs. Each summer, the program welcomes about 150 low-income public elementary and middle school students to a 6-week enrichment program that prevents learning loss that occurs during the summer. The program provides a safe and nurturing environment, recreational and cultural activities, meals and snacks, caring professional teachers, and creative and challenging instructions to improve students' academic, social, and emotional skills.  Jenny Woodruff spoke about her role as education and community engagement director for the Savannah Music Festival. She is especially proud of a new education program that SMF recently launched called Jazz Academy. The first program served 30 students in the 5th grade. Jenny also talked about the larger Musical Explorers program which serves every student in kindergarten through 2nd grade in Chatham County. These programs bring national artists to local students, inspiring and educating them.
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Announcements IT'S THE FINAL COUNTDOWN - FEB 29TH!! We are 82% of the way toward our goal for 100% for EREY! IF YOUR NAME ISN'T... Leigh Acevedo, Darron Alvord, Kathleen Anderson, Cecilia Arango, Jamie Arkins, Bret Bell, Kelley Boyd, Jeff Brady, Emily Burch, Spencer Burch, Sam Carroll, Danny Chase, Jordan Chase, Chris Corey, Kristen Crawley, Patton Dugas, Denise Grabowski, Will Gruver, Suzy Karpf, Jasmine Mills, Sara Holton, Justin Hummel, Reshma Johnson, Suzanne Kirk, Anna Kuhlke-Lee, Robert McCorkle, Denise McCoy, William McIntosh, Orlando Montoya, Clint Murphy, Jason Nielubowicz, Jessica Pedigo, Lee Perry, Cari Phelps, Patrick Phelps, Jeanine Roach, Ben Senger, Whitney Shephard, Florence Slatinsky, Liza Smith, Jason Somers, David Spisso, Jessica Thomas, Julie Wade, Daniel Weiner, Jenny Woodruff, Josh Yates then go to https://my.rotary.org/en and donate! As a Club, we've pledged 100% club participation to have Every Rotarian Every Year make a contribution of at least $100. The good news is that the Club has already gifted $50 to your contribution. Please see below on how to complete your part: Go here: https://metrosavannahrotary.org/ and select "Foundation" in the blue menu bar:  Or, go directly to https://my.rotary.org/en/donate Select your cause in which you'd like to support. Donate a minimum of $50 in order to qualify for your every Rotarian every year contribution "EREY". Consider selecting a recurring donation for automatic annual contributions. Please do not forget to SIGN IN, if you've forgotten your password, create a new one. If you have not signed up to the website, do so. Recognition will only occur if you sign in. If you'd prefer to pay by check. Complete the form in the link below and mail your contribution to the address at the bottom of the form or bring a check (payable to Rotary Foundation) or bring cash to the next meeting!  CALLING ALL CHILI CHEFS!! March 8th at 3 PM at the Phelps Residence The chili cook-off portion of the Metro Roastary fundraiser is back again this year. We're looking for volunteers to make chili, If you're interested in volunteering or sponsoring, please contact Jessica Pedigo. This is a public event so please invite all your friends and professional contacts. CALLING ALL READERS!! March 25th at 9 AM at Brock Elementary School We're participating in the Rotary Read-In on March 25th at Brock Elementary School. Registration deadline was Feb 25th (I'm sure you can still register if needed). When you sign up, you are volunteering to read a book to students and then donating that book to the school. This is a rewarding and easy way to volunteer. E Shaver Bookseller has suggested titles once you find out what grade level you'll be reading to and will be offering a 10% discount. Sign up at https//savannahrotaryreadin.com LOOPING LITERACY TOGETHER If anyone is interested in reading regularly through Looping Literacy Together at Brock Elementary, please email carmen@loopitupsavannah.com.  DISTRICT CONFERENCE - JEKYLL ISLAND ON APRIL 24-26 We're making a push for more club participation at the District Conference on Jekyll Island on April 24-26. In recognition of the 2020 RI Convention being held in Honolulu, the district conference will be Polynesian-themed, featuring Polynesian menus and entertainment. It'll be fun to go as a group and all events are casual. Contact Bret Bell for more information!   METRO CLUB SOCIAL @ SAVANNAH STATE UNIVERSITY Thanks Lee Perry and Josh Yates for organizing this month's club social at a Savannah State basketball game! |
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9th Annual Roastary Oyster Roast Join us for our 9th Annual Metro Roastary Oyster Roast on Sunday, March 8th from 3:00 - 6:00 PM. Metrotarians Cari and Patrick Phelps will be graciously hosting the oyster roast at their residence at 308 E. Hall Street. Tickets are $40 advance/$45 at the door. It'll be a casual afternoon of all-you-can-eat oysters, cold beer and wine, and live music! Come out and enjoy a beautiful late afternoon of oysters and vote for your favorite chili. There will be an amazing Savannah raffle basket up for grabs as well. Proceeds will benefit local non-profit partners, in addition to Rotary International causes, such as Polio Plus. If you're interested in sponsoring, contact Jessica Pedigo at JPedigo@SSPins.com or 912-544-1903. Sponsorship opportunities include:
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Brags, Finds, & WhinesHear Ye, Hear Ye! Please send your Brags, Finds, and Whines to arango.c@tandh.com in order to be included in Repeats.
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GuestsA big warm welcome to the following guests who attended our last meetings:
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Nominated GuestsWe introduce to you our three in the New Member Process:  LEVEL 1-5: George Seaborough (level 2), sponsored by Ariana Berksteiner and Whitney Shephards with Cynthia Mullally as Membership Liaison, is the Coordinator/Executive Director for Chatham Savannah Citizen Advocacy. He's a Savannah native and is married to Youth Minister, Tyneise Seaborough. They have a 4-year-old daughter named Sabera. He graduated from Savannah High and holds a B.S. in Political Science with a minor in Education and a Master’s of Public Administration from Savannah State University. A member of Branded Hearts International Church and President of Twickenham Neighborhood Association, George has served in leadership roles as a Union Organizer for SEIU, Field Director for Young Democrats of Georgia, Interim Director of SSU Community Future Corporation, Loan Associate for United Way, and Freshman Experience Professor at Savannah State University. In his spare time, he has led high school students on several college road trips to South Carolina and throughout Georgia, served as a volunteer adviser to help students prepare for the Harvard Model United Nations competition, and educated students on the political process of campaigns. LEVEL 1-5: Erika Morrow, M.S., O.D. (level 2), sponsored by Bret Bell and Cindy Mullally with Denise McCoy as Membership Liaison, is a Colorado native, one of eight children, and has 17 nieces/nephews. She is happily married to her husband, Brian, since 2009, and they have two dogs. They relocated to Savannah in 2017 for her husband's career at Gulfstream. They enjoy traveling, camping, hiking, and frequenting the local establishments of Savannah. Erika attended the University of Colorado at Denver and graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 2012. She went on to pursue her Doctorate of Optometry and Masters of Vision Science at the University of Alabama at Birmingham where she graduated with honors in 2016. After falling in love with the Savannah area, Erika opened her own eye care practice in the historic district, ForSight Unique Eye Care & Eye Wear. She provides full service eye care services and has a wonderfully unique optical. She is the president for the First District Georgia Optometric Association and a member of the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and Small Business Chamber.  LEVEL 1-5: Sarah Smith (level 1), sponsored by Jamie Smith Arkins, is the Director of Digital Content and Marketing at WTOC. She started her career in television and has worked in numerous fields, including the arts, retail, and healthcare, but the magnetic pull of the universe clearly wants her in media. Sarah has proudly served on the Board of The Matthew Reardon Center for Autism for six years and is a previous Chairman. She is also involved in her daughters' school, where she is the Communications Chairman for the PTA and President of the School Council. She loves attending Christ Church Episcopal and helps with the children's chapel team. Mostly though, Sarah loves being with her husband, Solomon, and daughters, Abigail (10) and Nora (8). If she had endless time and money, Sarah would spend her days traveling the globe, drinking, eating, taking pictures, and experiencing new cultures. She has a degree in English and Fine Arts from Vanderbilt University, a Master's Degree in Art History from the University of Georgia, and a Certificate of Language and Culture from the Catholic University in Angers, France. Sarah is a 2019 graduate of Leadership Savannah. As a part of the New Member process,guests with interest in joining Metro are asked to submit a bio so we can share with the club. This is our time to learn more about our future members! If you have any questions about the prospective member's status, please reach out to Membership Chair, Cari Clark Phelps. We want to ensure our process IS FAIR TO ALL CONCERNED. Happy reading!  Laura Sparks, sponsored by Jordan Chase, has lived in Savannah since 2002. She grew up in New Orleans and finished high school in Atlanta. She attended the College of Charleston and finished with a degree in psychology in Minneapolis. After traveling and working abroad, Laura moved to Savannah to live near her sister. She started her career in Real Estate before joining Ashley's Business Solutions in 2009. Laura took a short break to raise her 2 daughters, while working part time with St. John's Episcopal Church, and as a certified health coach. She has been an active volunteer at her church helping with their annual church conference, assisting with the silent auctions, Sunday school, and co-chairing their bazaar. Laura now is back working with Ashley's in sales, helping businesses with work-flow management with copiers and software.  Karen Terry, sponsored by Jordan Chase, grew up in the one red light town of Estill, SC and graduated from high school in a class of 14 people. She spent many high school days aimlessly riding around the country with her friends wondering what people do in places with restaurants and entertainment. After being a very indecisive undergraduate, Karen moved to Savannah in 2012 where she earned a Master’s of Public Health from Armstrong State College. She began her career as a Fellow at the National Cancer Institute where she worked to disseminate research-based interventions from the national to the community level. Karen is the Director of the Curtis and Elizabeth Anderson Cancer Institute at Memorial Health University Medical Center and is the 2019 Corporate Walk Chair for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night Savannah. In her spare time, Karen enjoys visiting her family in that one red light town and pretty much anything she can do outside with her cocker spaniel, Cooper. |
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Announcements NEWEST METROTARIAN Everyone welcome Mike Nadeau to the family! He was inducted to the family at our last meeting.  METROS WHO MUNCH Check out the latest munch dates! Daniel Weiner, Julie Wade, and Denise McCoy hit up the Green Truck Pub and Bret Bell, Orlando Montoya, and Suzy Karpf dined at Flock to the Wok. Have you munched yet?  HABITAT FOR HUMANITY PROJECT FINALE - JAN 25 & FEB 1! Thanks to the following who volunteered their time to help with the last service projects for Habitat for Humanity: Lee Acevedo, Cecilia Arango, Jamie Arkins, Ben Barksdale, Bret Bell, Emmy Burch, Spencer Burch, Sam Carroll, Jordan Chase, Chris Corey, Kristen Crawley, Patton Dugas, Denise Grabowski, Will Gruver, Ellen Harris, Katie Joyner, Anne Kuhlke-Lee, Denise McCoy, William McIntosh, Jessica Pedigo, Cari Phelps, Patrick Phelps, Jeanine Roach, Ben Singer, Whitney Shephard, Liza Smith, Jason Somers, Laura Sparks, Julie Wade, Daniel Weiner, Josh Yates IF YOUR NAME ISN'T... Leigh Acevedo, Darron Alvord, Kathleen Anderson, Cecilia Arango, Jamie Arkins, Ben Barksdale, Lee Beckmann, Ariana Berksteiner, Bret Bell, Kelley Boyd, Jeff Brady, Emily Burch, Spencer Burch, Sam Carroll, Danny Chase, Jordan Chase, Chris Corey, Kristen Crawley, Chris DeLeon, Patton Dugas, Denise Grabowski, Will Gruver, Suzy Karpf, Jasmine Mills, Sara Holton, Justin Hummel, Reshma Johnson, Suzanne Kirk, Anna Kuhlke-Lee, Robert McCorkle, Denise McCoy, Alfred McGuire, William McIntosh, Orlando Montoya, Clint Murphy, Jason Nielubowicz, Jessica Pedigo, Lee Perry, Cari Phelps, Patrick Phelps, Jeanine Roach, Ben Senger, Whitney Shephard, Florence Slatinsky, Liza Smith, Jason Somers, David Spisso, Grant Tallon, Jessica Thomas, Julie Wade, Daniel Weiner, Brad Whitfield, Jenny Woodruff, Josh Yates THEN  THE ROTARY FOUNDATION - EVERY ROTARIAN EVERY YEAR District Governor Mike Muldowney presented us with a flag for EREY for participation last year and we need to be at 100% again this year! What does this mean? It means your deadline to contribute to the Foundation is FEBRUARY 29TH! What if we don't make EREY?  BRET SAYS, "NOT ON MY WATCH!" As a Club, we've pledged 100% club participation to have Every Rotarian Every Year make a contribution of at least $100. The good news is that the Club has already gifted $50 to your contribution. Please see below on how to complete your part: Go here: https://metrosavannahrotary.org/ and select "Foundation" in the blue menu bar: Or, go directly to https://my.rotary.org/en/donate Select your cause in which you'd like to support. Donate a minimum of $50 in order to qualify for your every Rotarian every year contribution "EREY". Consider selecting a recurring donation for automatic annual contributions. Please do not forget to SIGN IN, if you've forgotten your password, create a new one. If you have not signed up to the website, do so. Recognition will only occur if you sign in. If you'd prefer to pay by check. Complete the form in the link below and mail your contribution to the address at the bottom of the form or bring a check (payable to Rotary Foundation) or bring cash to the next meeting!   SAVE THE DATE! March 8th at 3 PM at the Phelps Residence More details coming soon! |
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Featured Guests: McIntoshes Live Out Their Travel Dreams Mackie and William McIntosh talked to the Club about fulfilling one of their lifelong dreams - to take off work for a year (June 2018 - June 2019) to travel across Europe. After two deaths of close family members, it really ignited the flame of the old adage that "life is too short" and William and Mackie decided that it was time to start working on making their travel dreams come true. It took a lot of budgeting (saving up to a 1/3 of their net income) and planning (they started the process in 2012). Some of the things they shared included:
Bret Bell also shared with us his presentation on Top 10 Other Vacations Metrotarians Took Last Year:  10. Lee Beckmann fought off Somali pirates while enjoying discounted container ship travel.  9. Laura Lee Bocade entered a wheelie contest at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally  8. Robert McCorkle rode bareback on a rhino during a return trip to the Serengeti.  7. Lee Perry helped organize a Fyre Festival  6. Jeff Brady went somewhere where he'd feel comfortable wearing Lycra.  5. Grant Tallon swam with tigers in the South China Sea  4. You know Cecilia and Emmy did a marathon somewhere.  3. Danny Chase got burnt to a crisp in the Dominican Republic  2. Ariana Berksteiner went to Central American and started a revolution  1. Suzy and Judge Karpf went to a Cosplay Convention in Vegas
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GuestsA big warm welcome to the following guests who attended our last meetings:
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Brags, Finds, & WhinesHear Ye, Hear Ye! Please send your Brags, Finds, and Whines to arango.c@tandh.com in order to be included in Repeats.
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Featured Guest: Nick Palumbo A GREATER SAVANNAH (1903-1906), AN ERA OF NOTEWORTHY CIVIC INNOVATION THROUGH POSTCARDS Nick was excited to share with us his collection of postcards, specifically with Savannah's history and infrastructure that exists today and those that are sorely missed. What about postcards? They convey place, emotion, and time. They relay tragedy, disaster, feelings, celebrations, and more. World War I ended postcards as print quality declined and ink was running out. After showing us his collection and a history through time, Nick posed the question - What are the buildings today that will be cherished in the future?"  And our favorite - BRET'S TOP 10 NICK PALUMBO VINTAGE POSTCARD FINDS  10. This guy floating with a gun down the Savannah River.  9. Early SCADdies loitering near the Armory  8. Public art on Bull Street  7. First generation drone prototype over Forsyth Park  6. Palm frond rose guy at Old City Market  5. Sasquatch frolicking through azaleas  4. Swimming with Great Whites on Tybee  3. Original Gen. Oglethorpe Hotel tower on Wilmington Island  2. Tony Thomas on Broughton Street  1. Good old-fashioned bare-knuckled post-meeting City Council street fight |
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Classification Talk with Anne Kuhlke-Lee Anne Kuhlke-Lee is a licensed professional counselor and has all the acronyms behind her name to prove it! She worked for SCAD for 7 years - and before that she was Savannah Technical College's first counselor - before opening her own counseling services. She is a Master's-degreed mental health service provider and is trained to work with individuals, families, and groups in treating mental, behavioral, and emotional problems and disorders. Anne accepts insurance, doesn't prescribe meds, and believes that psychotherapist or mental health counselor might be a better descriptor than "counseling services." If you know of any moms out there struggling with any mental health issues, Anne helped start the Facebook group, Maternal Mental Health Collective of Savannah (@ListenToMoms).
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Nominated GuestsWe introduce to you our three in the New Member Process: LEVEL 1-5: George Seaborough (level 2), sponsored by Ariana Berksteiner and Whitney Shephards with Cynthia Mullally as Membership Liaison, is the Coordinator/Executive Director for Chatham Savannah Citizen Advocacy. He's a Savannah native and is married to Youth Minister, Tyneise Seaborough. They have a 4-year-old daughter named Sabera. He graduated from Savannah High and holds a B.S. in Political Science with a minor in Education and a Master’s of Public Administration from Savannah State University. A member of Branded Hearts International Church and President of Twickenham Neighborhood Association, George has served in leadership roles as a Union Organizer for SEIU, Field Director for Young Democrats of Georgia, Interim Director of SSU Community Future Corporation, Loan Associate for United Way, and Freshman Experience Professor at Savannah State University. In his spare time, he has led high school students on several college road trips to South Carolina and throughout Georgia, served as a volunteer adviser to help students prepare for the Harvard Model United Nations competition, and educated students on the political process of campaigns. LEVEL 1-5: Erika Morrow, M.S., O.D. (level 1), sponsored by Bret Bell and Cindy Mullally with Denise McCoy as Membership Liaison, is a Colorado native, one of eight children, and has 17 nieces/nephews. She is happily married to her husband, Brian, since 2009, and they have two dogs. They relocated to Savannah in 2017 for her husband's career at Gulfstream. They enjoy traveling, camping, hiking, and frequenting the local establishments of Savannah. Erika attended the University of Colorado at Denver and graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 2012. She went on to pursue her Doctorate of Optometry and Masters of Vision Science at the University of Alabama at Birmingham where she graduated with honors in 2016. After falling in love with the Savannah area, Erika opened her own eye care practice in the historic district, ForSight Unique Eye Care & Eye Wear. She provides full service eye care services and has a wonderfully unique optical. She is the president for the First District Georgia Optometric Association and a member of the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and Small Business Chamber.  LEVEL 1-5: Mike Nadeau (level 5), sponsored by Cecilia Arango and Suzanne Kirk with Cari Phelps as Membership Liaison, is the Owner/Operator of Fleet Feet Savannah (and Pooler coming soon!). He's a passionate individual who never really backs down from tackling a new challenge in life.He's had the awesome opportunity to serve our country in the United States Air Force working as a Signal Intelligence Analyst, U1N471. While in the Air Force, he traveled to Japan, South Korea, and all over the Middle East. Personally, he's traveled all over Europe and Central America. One of his greatest experiences in life was driving in an old Jeep from CA to FL with his dad when he separated from the Air Force. Mike's a passionate runner and has completed an Ironman, 140.6 miles (swim 2.4, bike 112 and run a marathon), as well as completed an ultra-marathon covering 100K, 62miles. He enjoy music and plays very little guitar although he does enjoy it. He has an amazing wife who puts up with most of it, and a daughter who attends Catawba College on a soccer scholarship. She’s majoring in biology in preparation for vet school. Mike's bucket list includes wanting to hike the AT, fly a helicopter, and travel the Pacific Northwest. LEVEL 1-5: Sarah Smith (level 1), sponsored by Jamie Smith Arkins, is the Director of Digital Content and Marketing at WTOC. She started her career in television and has worked in numerous fields, including the arts, retail, and healthcare, but the magnetic pull of the universe clearly wants her in media. Sarah has proudly served on the Board of The Matthew Reardon Center for Autism for six years and is a previous Chairman. She is also involved in her daughters' school, where she is the Communications Chairman for the PTA and President of the School Council. She loves attending Christ Church Episcopal and helps with the children's chapel team. Mostly though, Sarah loves being with her husband, Solomon, and daughters, Abigail (10) and Nora (8). If she had endless time and money, Sarah would spend her days traveling the globe, drinking, eating, taking pictures, and experiencing new cultures. She has a degree in English and Fine Arts from Vanderbilt University, a Master's Degree in Art History from the University of Georgia, and a Certificate of Language and Culture from the Catholic University in Angers, France. Sarah is a 2019 graduate of Leadership Savannah. As a part of the New Member process,guests with interest in joining Metro are asked to submit a bio so we can share with the club. This is our time to learn more about our future members! If you have any questions about the prospective member's status, please reach out to Membership Chair, Cari Clark Phelps. We want to ensure our process IS FAIR TO ALL CONCERNED. Happy reading! Laura Sparks, sponsored by Jordan Chase, has lived in Savannah since 2002. She grew up in New Orleans and finished high school in Atlanta. She attended the College of Charleston and finished with a degree in psychology in Minneapolis. After traveling and working abroad, Laura moved to Savannah to live near her sister. She started her career in Real Estate before joining Ashley's Business Solutions in 2009. Laura took a short break to raise her 2 daughters, while working part time with St. John's Episcopal Church, and as a certified health coach. She has been an active volunteer at her church helping with their annual church conference, assisting with the silent auctions, Sunday school, and co-chairing their bazaar. Laura now is back working with Ashley's in sales, helping businesses with work-flow management with copiers and software. Karen Terry, sponsored by Jordan Chase, grew up in the one red light town of Estill, SC and graduated from high school in a class of 14 people. She spent many high school days aimlessly riding around the country with her friends wondering what people do in places with restaurants and entertainment. After being a very indecisive undergraduate, Karen moved to Savannah in 2012 where she earned a Master’s of Public Health from Armstrong State College. She began her career as a Fellow at the National Cancer Institute where she worked to disseminate research-based interventions from the national to the community level. Karen is the Director of the Curtis and Elizabeth Anderson Cancer Institute at Memorial Health University Medical Center and is the 2019 Corporate Walk Chair for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night Savannah. In her spare time, Karen enjoys visiting her family in that one red light town and pretty much anything she can do outside with her cocker spaniel, Cooper. |
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Announcements JANUARY MONTHLY METRO SOCIAL @ MOODRIGHT'S Thanks to all those who came out for our monthly Metro Social at one of the newest spots in town, Moodright's! Harold Yellin, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity, joined us also.   ASP - HABITAT FOR HUMANITY SERVICE & BIG CHECK DELIVERY! Thanks everyone who came out to help move Habitat out of 70th Street location to their new digs at the ReStore on MLK. As a group, we presented Harold with Habitat a check for $10,000. Thanks to Metrotarian Ben Senger for taking video and interviews to post on WSAV. IF YOUR NAME ISN'T... Leigh Acevedo, Darron Alvord, Kathleen Anderson, Cecilia Arango, Jamie Arkins, Bret Bell, Kelley Boyd, Jeff Brady, Emily Burch, Spencer Burch, Sam Carroll, Danny Chase, Jordan Chase, Chris Corey, Kristen Crawley, Chris DeLeon, Patton Dugas, Denise Grabowski, Will Gruver, Jasmine Mills, Sara Holton, Justin Hummel, Reshma Johnson, Suzanne Kirk, Anna Kuhlke-Lee, Robert McCorkle, Denise McCoy, William McIntosh, Orlando Montoya, Jason Nielubowicz, Jessica Pedigo, Cari Phelps, Patrick Phelps, Jeanine Roach, Ben Senger, Whitney Shephard, Florence Slatinsky, Liza Smith, Jason Somers, Julie Wade, Daniel Weiner, Josh Yates THEN THE ROTARY FOUNDATION - EVERY ROTARIAN EVERY YEAR District Governor Mike Muldowney presented us with a flag for EREY for participation last year and we need to be at 100% again this year! What does this mean? It means your deadline to contribute to the Foundation is FEBRUARY 29TH! What if we don't make EREY? BRET SAYS, "NOT ON MY WATCH!" As a Club, we've pledged 100% club participation to have Every Rotarian Every Year make a contribution of at least $100. The good news is that the Club has already gifted $50 to your contribution. Please see below on how to complete your part: Go here: https://metrosavannahrotary.org/ and select "Foundation" in the blue menu bar: Or, go directly to https://my.rotary.org/en/donate Select your cause in which you'd like to support. Donate a minimum of $50 in order to qualify for your every Rotarian every year contribution "EREY". Consider selecting a recurring donation for automatic annual contributions. Please do not forget to SIGN IN, if you've forgotten your password, create a new one. If you have not signed up to the website, do so. Recognition will only occur if you sign in. If you'd prefer to pay by check. Complete the form in the link below and mail your contribution to the address at the bottom of the form or bring a check (payable to Rotary Foundation) or bring cash to the next meeting!  YOUR GIRL'S THE 2021-22 PRESIDENT NOMINEE! Oh, herro...(FYI, I wrote that.) |
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Brags, Finds, & WhinesHear Ye, Hear Ye! Please send your Brags, Finds, and Whines to arango.c@tandh.com in order to be included in Repeats.
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GuestsA big warm welcome to the following guests who attended our last meetings:
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Patrick Monahan: Savannah 2020 - From SWOT to Savannah Forward Pat Monahan is the current City Manager and is counting down the days (less than 80ish days) before retires to his hammock in his cabin in North Carolina - and he's serious this time. After turning down the offer over and over, Pat decided to step out of retirement and assist the city (Georgia's 2nd largest municipal organization) as interim City Manager in July 2019, during a transition period when former City Manager, Rob Hernandez, took a job down in Florida. Pat had already served 29 years as the Assistant County Manager and retired in 2012, before he started his own consulting business, Governomics. One of his iconic projects includes the Savannah International Trade Center. In the first 2 weeks as City Manager, Pat performed a SWOT analysis, which helped identify the focus areas/targets he delved deep into during his 10 months, including:
Pat says he's definitely retiring. However, Bret pulled together TOP 10 WAYS TO GET PAT MONAHAN TO STAY ON AS CITY MANAGER and this list goes like this: 10. Mike Nadeau agrees to throw in lifetime supply of high-end minimalist running shoes. 9. Set aside time every City Council Meeting for Pat's "This Week in Obscure Savannah History" lecture. 8. Henry's Restaurant agrees to make All-You-Can-Eat Spaghetti Wednesdays a daily thing. 7. Repaint the majestic City Hall Gold Dome a hideous Florida Gator orange. 6. Move the Waving Girl to Talahi Island as a nice treat for Pat when he commutes home every evening. 5. Robert McCorkle agrees to submit no more rezoning requests. 4. Convert City Manager's Office into woodworking shop. Change City Manager duties to that of City Carpenter. 3. Allow Pat to work remotely from hammock on porch of North Carolina cabin. 2. Flat out bribe him with the title of 2020 St. Patrick's Day Parade Grand Marshal. 1. New City Council agrees to act sanely, use good judgement, and conduct efficient meetings.
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Newsworthy MetrotariansOrlando Montoya (Connect Savannah) wrote an edgy piece regarding the merging of Armstrong into Georgia Southern University. Read all about it here! Jenny Woodruff' (US News & World Report) was featured for the Savannah Music Festival's Georgia Jazz Academy. Read all about here!  Emmy Burch did a fine job singing at the City Council's inauguration!  Tharpe Engineering (Cody Tharpe), Hansen Architects, and Thomas & Hutton (Cecilia Arango) were featured in the Savannah Magazine's feature article on the Cove at Dundee (Tiny House Project).
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Announcements CHEERS TO 2019! We celebrated a kick-ass 2019! Kudos to Whitney Shephard Yates on organizing our fun Holiday Social on Dec. 18th at Savoy Society We had a blast!  MUNCH MUCH? A big shout-out to Liza Smith for playing Metro's Munch-Maker! Thanks everyone for signing up for a Munch-date with your Metro fam! We took a quick break with all the December madness, but keep a look-out for your next Munch Date. Also, it's never too late if you still want to munch, please email Liza Smith and she'll hook you up (heeeheeeeheeeheee). Here's the gist:
 ASP - HABITAT FOR HUMANITY SERVICE! Mark your calendar for 2 exciting events that we'll need all hands on deck for:
 NEXT METRO CLUB SOCIAL - MOODRIGHT'S We'll see you on Jan 28 at 5:30 PM at Savannah's only Duckpin bowling bar. If you want to get there earlier and jump on some Happy Hour bowling, it starts at 4 and ends at 6 PM for $3 per person. Did you guys know there's a Beggars Banquet on the menu? For $20, you get a beer, a slushie, pack of cigs, and 2 games for $20?! I know where my next munch date is! IF YOUR NAME ISN'T... Leigh Acevedo, Darron Alvord, Cecilia Arango, Jamie Arkins, Bret Bell, Kelley Boyd, Jeff Brady, Sam Carroll, Danny Chase, Jordan Chase, Chris Corey, Kristen Crawley, Patton Dugas, Denise Grabowski, Will Gruver, Jasmine Mills, Sara Holton, Justin Hummel - homeboy doesn't even live here, Reshma Johnson, Suzanne Kirk, Anna Kuhlke-Lee, Denise McCoy, William McIntosh, Orlando Montoya, Jason Nielubowicz, Cari Phelps, Patrick Phelps, Jeanine Roach, Ben Singer, Whitney Shephard, Florence Slatinsky, Liza Smith, Jason Somers, Julie Wade, Daniel Weiner, Josh Yates THEN THE ROTARY FOUNDATION - EVERY ROTARIAN EVERY YEAR We're currently at 52% and we need to be at 100%! What does this mean? It means your deadline to contribute to the Foundation is FEBRUARY 29TH! What if we don't make EREY? BRET SAYS, "NOT ON MY WATCH!" As a Club, we've pledged 100% club participation to have Every Rotarian Every Year make a contribution of at least $100. The good news is that the Club has already gifted $50 to your contribution. Please see below on how to complete your part: Go here: https://metrosavannahrotary.org/ and select "Foundation" in the blue menu bar: Or, go directly to https://my.rotary.org/en/donate Select your cause in which you'd like to support. Donate a minimum of $50 in order to qualify for your every Rotarian every year contribution "EREY". Consider selecting a recurring donation for automatic annual contributions. Please do not forget to SIGN IN, if you've forgotten your password, create a new one. If you have not signed up to the website, do so. Recognition will only occur if you sign in. If you'd prefer to pay by check. Complete the form in the link below and mail your contribution to the address at the bottom of the form or bring a check (payable to Rotary Foundation) or bring cash to the next meeting! |
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Nominated GuestsWe introduce to you our three in the New Member Process: LEVEL 1-5: George Seaborough (level 1), sponsored by Ariana Berksteiner and Whitney Shephards with Cynthia Mullally as Membership Liaison, is the Coordinator/Executive Director for Chatham Savannah Citizen Advocacy. He's a Savannah native and is married to Youth Minister, Tyneise Seaborough. They have a 4-year-old daughter named Sabera. He graduated from Savannah High and holds a B.S. in Political Science with a minor in Education and a Master’s of Public Administration from Savannah State University. A member of Branded Hearts International Church and President of Twickenham Neighborhood Association, George has served in leadership roles as a Union Organizer for SEIU, Field Director for Young Democrats of Georgia, Interim Director of SSU Community Future Corporation, Loan Associate for United Way, and Freshman Experience Professor at Savannah State University. In his spare time, he has led high school students on several college road trips to South Carolina and throughout Georgia, served as a volunteer adviser to help students prepare for the Harvard Model United Nations competition, and educated students on the political process of campaigns. LEVEL 1-5: Erika Morrow, M.S., O.D. (level 1), sponsored by Bret Bell and Cindy Mullally with Denise McCoy as Membership Liaison, is a Colorado native, one of eight children, and has 17 nieces/nephews. She is happily married to her husband, Brian, since 2009, and they have two dogs. They relocated to Savannah in 2017 for her husband's career at Gulfstream. They enjoy traveling, camping, hiking, and frequenting the local establishments of Savannah. Erika attended the University of Colorado at Denver and graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 2012. She went on to pursue her Doctorate of Optometry and Masters of Vision Science at the University of Alabama at Birmingham where she graduated with honors in 2016. After falling in love with the Savannah area, Erika opened her own eye care practice in the historic district, ForSight Unique Eye Care & Eye Wear. She provides full service eye care services and has a wonderfully unique optical. She is the president for the First District Georgia Optometric Association and a member of the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and Small Business Chamber. LEVEL 1-5: Mike Nadeau (level 5), sponsored by Cecilia Arango and Suzanne Kirk with Cari Phelps as Membership Liaison, is the Owner/Operator of Fleet Feet Savannah (and Pooler coming soon!). He's a passionate individual who never really backs down from tackling a new challenge in life.He's had the awesome opportunity to serve our country in the United States Air Force working as a Signal Intelligence Analyst, U1N471. While in the Air Force, he traveled to Japan, South Korea, and all over the Middle East. Personally, he's traveled all over Europe and Central America. One of his greatest experiences in life was driving in an old Jeep from CA to FL with his dad when he separated from the Air Force. Mike's a passionate runner and has completed an Ironman, 140.6 miles (swim 2.4, bike 112 and run a marathon), as well as completed an ultra-marathon covering 100K, 62miles. He enjoy music and plays very little guitar although he does enjoy it. He has an amazing wife who puts up with most of it, and a daughter who attends Catawba College on a soccer scholarship. She’s majoring in biology in preparation for vet school. Mike's bucket list includes wanting to hike the AT, fly a helicopter, and travel the Pacific Northwest. As a part of the New Member process,guests with interest in joining Metro are asked to submit a bio so we can share with the club. This is our time to learn more about our future members! If you have any questions about the prospective member's status, please reach out to Membership Chair, Cari Clark Phelps. We want to ensure our process IS FAIR TO ALL CONCERNED. Happy reading! Laura Sparks, sponsored by Jordan Chase, has lived in Savannah since 2002. She grew up in New Orleans and finished high school in Atlanta. She attended the College of Charleston and finished with a degree in psychology in Minneapolis. After traveling and working abroad, Laura moved to Savannah to live near her sister. She started her career in Real Estate before joining Ashley's Business Solutions in 2009. Laura took a short break to raise her 2 daughters, while working part time with St. John's Episcopal Church, and as a certified health coach. She has been an active volunteer at her church helping with their annual church conference, assisting with the silent auctions, Sunday school, and co-chairing their bazaar. Laura now is back working with Ashley's in sales, helping businesses with work-flow management with copiers and software. Sarah Smith, sponsored by Jamie Smith Arkins, is the Director of Digital Content and Marketing at WTOC. She started her career in television and has worked in numerous fields, including the arts, retail, and healthcare, but the magnetic pull of the universe clearly wants her in media. Sarah has proudly served on the Board of The Matthew Reardon Center for Autism for six years and is a previous Chairman. She is also involved in her daughters' school, where she is the Communications Chairman for the PTA and President of the School Council. She loves attending Christ Church Episcopal and helps with the children's chapel team. Mostly though, Sarah loves being with her husband, Solomon, and daughters, Abigail (10) and Nora (8). If she had endless time and money, Sarah would spend her days traveling the globe, drinking, eating, taking pictures, and experiencing new cultures. She has a degree in English and Fine Arts from Vanderbilt University, a Master's Degree in Art History from the University of Georgia, and a Certificate of Language and Culture from the Catholic University in Angers, France. Sarah is a 2019 graduate of Leadership Savannah. Karen Terry, sponsored by Jordan Chase, grew up in the one red light town of Estill, SC and graduated from high school in a class of 14 people. She spent many high school days aimlessly riding around the country with her friends wondering what people do in places with restaurants and entertainment. After being a very indecisive undergraduate, Karen moved to Savannah in 2012 where she earned a Master’s of Public Health from Armstrong State College. She began her career as a Fellow at the National Cancer Institute where she worked to disseminate research-based interventions from the national to the community level. Karen is the Director of the Curtis and Elizabeth Anderson Cancer Institute at Memorial Health University Medical Center and is the 2019 Corporate Walk Chair for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night Savannah. In her spare time, Karen enjoys visiting her family in that one red light town and pretty much anything she can do outside with her cocker spaniel, Cooper. |
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Brags, Finds, & WhinesHear Ye, Hear Ye! Please send your Brags, Finds, and Whines to arango.c@tandh.com in order to be included in Repeats.
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GuestsA big warm welcome to the following guests who attended our last meetings:
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Nominated GuestsAs a part of the New Member process, guests with interest in joining Metro are asked to submit a bio so we can share with the club. This is our time to learn more about our future members! If you have any questions about the prospective member's status, please reach out to Membership Chair, Cari Clark Phelps. We want to ensure our process IS FAIR TO ALL CONCERNED. Happy reading! Laura Sparks, sponsored by Jordan Chase, has lived in Savannah since 2002. She grew up in New Orleans and finished high school in Atlanta. She attended the College of Charleston and finished with a degree in psychology in Minneapolis. After traveling and working abroad, Laura moved to Savannah to live near her sister. She started her career in Real Estate before joining Ashley's Business Solutions in 2009. Laura took a short break to raise her 2 daughters, while working part time with St. John's Episcopal Church, and as a certified health coach. She has been an active volunteer at her church helping with their annual church conference, assisting with the silent auctions, Sunday school, and co-chairing their bazaar. Laura now is back working with Ashley's in sales, helping businesses with work-flow management with copiers and software. George Seaborough, sponsored by Whitney Shephards, is the Coordinator/Executive Director for Chatham Savannah Citizen Advocacy. He's a Savannah native and is married to Youth Minister, Tyneise Seaborough. They have a 4-year-old daughter named Sabera. He graduated from Savannah High and holds a B.S. in Political Science with a minor in Education and a Master’s of Public Administration from Savannah State University. A member of Branded Hearts International Church and President of Twickenham Neighborhood Association, George has served in leadership roles as a Union Organizer for SEIU, Field Director for Young Democrats of Georgia, Interim Director of SSU Community Future Corporation, Loan Associate for United Way, and Freshman Experience Professor at Savannah State University. In his spare time, he has led high school students on several college road trips to South Carolina and throughout Georgia, served as a volunteer adviser to help students prepare for the Harvard Model United Nations competition, and educated students on the political process of campaigns. Sarah Smith, sponsored by Jamie Smith Arkins, is the Director of Digital Content and Marketing at WTOC. She started her career in television and has worked in numerous fields, including the arts, retail, and healthcare, but the magnetic pull of the universe clearly wants her in media. Sarah has proudly served on the Board of The Matthew Reardon Center for Autism for six years and is a previous Chairman. She is also involved in her daughters' school, where she is the Communications Chairman for the PTA and President of the School Council. She loves attending Christ Church Episcopal and helps with the children's chapel team. Mostly though, Sarah loves being with her husband, Solomon, and daughters, Abigail (10) and Nora (8). If she had endless time and money, Sarah would spend her days traveling the globe, drinking, eating, taking pictures, and experiencing new cultures. She has a degree in English and Fine Arts from Vanderbilt University, a Master's Degree in Art History from the University of Georgia, and a Certificate of Language and Culture from the Catholic University in Angers, France. Sarah is a 2019 graduate of Leadership Savannah. Karen Terry, sponsored by Jordan Chase, grew up in the one red light town of Estill, SC and graduated from high school in a class of 14 people. She spent many high school days aimlessly riding around the country with her friends wondering what people do in places with restaurants and entertainment. After being a very indecisive undergraduate, Karen moved to Savannah in 2012 where she earned a Master’s of Public Health from Armstrong State College. She began her career as a Fellow at the National Cancer Institute where she worked to disseminate research-based interventions from the national to the community level. Karen is the Director of the Curtis and Elizabeth Anderson Cancer Institute at Memorial Health University Medical Center and is the 2019 Corporate Walk Chair for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night Savannah. In her spare time, Karen enjoys visiting her family in that one red light town and pretty much anything she can do outside with her cocker spaniel, Cooper. Erika Morrow, M.S., O.D., sponsored by Cindy Mullally, is a Colorado native, one of eight children, and has 17 nieces/nephews. She is happily married to her husband, Brian, since 2009, and they have two dogs. They relocated to Savannah in 2017 for her husband's career at Gulfstream. They enjoy traveling, camping, hiking, and frequenting the local establishments of Savannah. Erika attended the University of Colorado at Denver and graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 2012. She went on to pursue her Doctorate of Optometry and Masters of Vision Science at the University of Alabama at Birmingham where she graduated with honors in 2016. After falling in love with the Savannah area, Erika opened her own eye care practice in the historic district, ForSight Unique Eye Care & Eye Wear. She provides full service eye care services and has a wonderfully unique optical. She is the president for the First District Georgia Optometric Association and a member of the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and Small Business Chamber. |
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Announcements.jpg) HOLIDAY SOCIAL It's time to get festive! You're invited to Metro's Holiday Social on Wed, Dec. 18th from 5:30-7:30 PM at Savoy Society (102 E Liberty Street, Suite 109). Join your Metro BFFs as we toast the brand new Savoy Society lounge. There'll be cocktails, wine, beer, and munchies. Speaking of Munchies.... Munch Much? Thanks everyone for signing up for a Munch-date with your Metro fam! It's not too late if you still want to munch, please email Liza Smith and she'll hook you up (heeeheeeeheeeheee). Here's the gist:
 ONE OF US! ONE OF US! ONE OF US! Congratulations to Elizabeth Summerell on completing the requirements to become inducted into the Metro Savannah Rotary family! MIKE NADEAU'S CLASSIFICATION TALK Fun facts about Mike:
 METRO SOCIAL AT TWO TIDES BREWERY We had an awesome turn-out at our last social at Two Tides! We look forward to seeing you at our next one on Wed, Dec. 18th!
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SPEAKERS Jami Murray is the Sales & Marketing Manager of Coastal Home Care, which is going through a transition right now. The firm was locally-owned and is now part of Chicago-based Help-at-Home. They are currently rebranding. Jami spoke to the club about various options for our aging loved ones, offering services such as the Medical Alert System (you know it better as "I've fallen and I can't get up!"), in-home care services, home health services, assisted living/personal care home, inpatient rehabilitation, long-term care/nursing home, and hospice care.  Lauren Criukshanks with Inspiritus informed the club on the many refugee assistance services they offer right here in Savannah, including resettlement, social adjustment, cultural orientation, employment, matching grant, and refugee school impact grant. They assist hundreds of refugees each year on the path to citizenship. Inspiritus aims to help refugees achieve economic self-sufficiency, integrate successfully into their new communities and country, and strive for citizenship.
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Brags, Finds, & WhinesHear Ye, Hear Ye! Please send your Brags, Finds, and Whines to arango.c@tandh.com in order to be included in Repeats.
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GuestsA big warm welcome to the following guests who attended our last meetings:
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We Don't Want Y'all's Babies! Janice Alexander, Customer/Constituent Services Manager with the GA Dept of Human Resources, gave a little lively humor and educational talk on what all the GA Dept of Human Services does for our community and the one takeaway we all took with us was that DFACs does not want our babies - one of the common myths spread about the service. She helps spread DHS' mission - Stronger families for a Stronger GA and talked to us about the various programs they offer, including Aging Services, Child Support, and Family & Children Services. They aim at helping people become self sufficient and making sure children are safe. DHS understands and believes that children do better at home with their parents. Janice states that "people want to do better and they just need a little help," explaining that DHS makes efforts in lessening punishments and looks for better ways to make the system work. What was staggering to hear is that almost 60% of kids who live here in Chatham County and enter into the fostering system get placed outside of the County and away from their homes and their familiar surroundings. Their is a need for foster parents in the County and if you or someone you know would live to get involved, please contact DHS.
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Brags, Finds, & WhinesHear Ye, Hear Ye! Please send your Brags, Finds, and Whines to arango.c@tandh.com in order to be included in Repeats.
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GuestsA big warm welcome to the following guests who attended our last meetings:
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Announcements.jpg) unch Much? Thanks everyone for signing up for a Munch-date with your Metro fam! It's not too late if you still want to munch, please email Liza Smith and she'll hook you up (heeeheeeeheeeheee). Here's the gist:
 We are at 28% EREY status! Please make your additional (or more) $50 donation to Rotary Foundation for year-end giving. Did y'all see the Polio stories in the last issue of the Rotarian? If not, please do and here's a story that hits close to home - did you know that Whitney Shephard Yates' mom had polio and spent almost a year in a hospital when she was very little? Whitney remembers thinking it was especially terrible that her mom hated chocolate because all of her medicine was chocolate-flavored in the hospital! Anything bad enough to make you hate chocolate has to be horrible!  Elizabeth Sommerll gave a Classification Talk. Here's a little bit of what we learned: - She's a Wake Forest graduate (7-1 Woo!) - Moved to Savannah 4 years ago and is from Northern Virginia - Her family used to own and operate a winery in Virginia - Plays kickball for the Pooler Plantains team - Serves as Treasurer for a few local non-profits in town and serves as Finance Director for Junior League - As an auditor, she hasn't dealt with any shady dealings to report to any Board of Directors - DOES NOT DO TAXES!!  Thank you to Alfred McGuire for sending us action shots of Laura Lee Bocade with DIRTT as a guest speaker for the Woodville Tompkins Interact Club! About DIRTT: DIRTT is a building process powered by technology. They’re changing the face of construction with industry-leading software and advanced manufacturing. Complete interior spaces are built faster, cleaner and more sustainably. DIRTT removes the guesswork with the power of ICE technology.  Looping Literacy Together, a literacy reading project with Loop It Up Savannah and Otis Brock Elementary, kicks off now! Thanks to our Metrotarians who are volunteering an hour out of their day to help read to Pre-K and Kindergarten classes!  "Head"ed to the "Mills" - Congratulations to Jasmine Head, now Jasmine Mills, who married her partner for life, Brandi Mills. We wish you a lifetime of love, light, and laughter! |
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Newsworthy MetrotariansMetrotarians in the news: .JPG)
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Bret's Top 10We hope everyone had a spooky Halloween! Here's a rundown of Bret's Top 10 Metro Halloween Costumes!  10. Darron Alvord as the Sadist Dentist in Little Shop of Horrors  9. Josh and Whitney as this.  8. Jenny N Cecilia as Salt N Pepa  7. Reshma as Salsa (to her Chip)  6. Robert McCorkle as Sasquatch  5. Until he got too damn hot and changed into his backup Avett Brothers Superfan costume  4. Lee Beckmann as a Sexy Nurse .png) 3. Bea and Liza as this terrible movie  2. Chris Corey as Madman, Don Draper  1. Orlando Montoya as The King
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Nominated GuestsAs a part of the New Member process, guests with interest in joining Metro are asked to submit a bio so we can share with the club. This is our time to learn more about our future members! If you have any questions about the prospective member's status, please reach out to Membership Chair, Cari Clark Phelps. We want to ensure our process IS FAIR TO ALL CONCERNED. Happy reading! Laura Sparks, sponsored by Jordan Chase, has lived in Savannah since 2002. She grew up in New Orleans and finished high school in Atlanta. She attended the College of Charleston and finished with a degree in psychology in Minneapolis. After traveling and working abroad, Laura moved to Savannah to live near her sister. She started her career in Real Estate before joining Ashley's Business Solutions in 2009. Laura took a short break to raise her 2 daughters, while working part time with St. John's Episcopal Church, and as a certified health coach. She has been an active volunteer at her church helping with their annual church conference, assisting with the silent auctions, Sunday school, and co-chairing their bazaar. Laura now is back working with Ashley's in sales, helping businesses with work-flow management with copiers and software. George Seaborough, sponsored by Whitney Shephards, is the Coordinator/Executive Director for Chatham Savannah Citizen Advocacy. He's a Savannah native and is married to Youth Minister, Tyneise Seaborough. They have a 4-year-old daughter named Sabera. He graduated from Savannah High and holds a B.S. in Political Science with a minor in Education and a Master’s of Public Administration from Savannah State University. A member of Branded Hearts International Church and President of Twickenham Neighborhood Association, George has served in leadership roles as a Union Organizer for SEIU, Field Director for Young Democrats of Georgia, Interim Director of SSU Community Future Corporation, Loan Associate for United Way, and Freshman Experience Professor at Savannah State University. In his spare time, he has led high school students on several college road trips to South Carolina and throughout Georgia, served as a volunteer adviser to help students prepare for the Harvard Model United Nations competition, and educated students on the political process of campaigns. Sarah Smith, sponsored by Jamie Smith Arkins, is the Director of Digital Content and Marketing at WTOC. She started her career in television and has worked in numerous fields, including the arts, retail, and healthcare, but the magnetic pull of the universe clearly wants her in media. Sarah has proudly served on the Board of The Matthew Reardon Center for Autism for six years and is a previous Chairman. She is also involved in her daughters' school, where she is the Communications Chairman for the PTA and President of the School Council. She loves attending Christ Church Episcopal and helps with the children's chapel team. Mostly though, Sarah loves being with her husband, Solomon, and daughters, Abigail (10) and Nora (8). If she had endless time and money, Sarah would spend her days traveling the globe, drinking, eating, taking pictures, and experiencing new cultures. She has a degree in English and Fine Arts from Vanderbilt University, a Master's Degree in Art History from the University of Georgia, and a Certificate of Language and Culture from the Catholic University in Angers, France. Sarah is a 2019 graduate of Leadership Savannah. Karen Terry, sponsored by Jordan Chase, grew up in the one red light town of Estill, SC and graduated from high school in a class of 14 people. She spent many high school days aimlessly riding around the country with her friends wondering what people do in places with restaurants and entertainment. After being a very indecisive undergraduate, Karen moved to Savannah in 2012 where she earned a Master’s of Public Health from Armstrong State College. She began her career as a Fellow at the National Cancer Institute where she worked to disseminate research-based interventions from the national to the community level. Karen is the Director of the Curtis and Elizabeth Anderson Cancer Institute at Memorial Health University Medical Center and is the 2019 Corporate Walk Chair for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night Savannah. In her spare time, Karen enjoys visiting her family in that one red light town and pretty much anything she can do outside with her cocker spaniel, Cooper. |
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Nominated GuestsLaura Sparks, sponsored by Jordan Chase, has lived in Savannah since 2002. She grew up in New Orleans and finished high school in Atlanta. She attended the College of Charleston and finished with a degree in psychology in Minneapolis. After traveling and working abroad, Laura moved to Savannah to live near her sister. She started her career in Real Estate before joining Ashley's Business Solutions in 2009. Laura took a short break to raise her 2 daughters, while working part time with St. John's Episcopal Church, and as a certified health coach. She has been an active volunteer at her church helping with their annual church conference, assisting with the silent auctions, Sunday school, and co-chairing their bazaar. Laura now is back working with Ashley's in sales, helping businesses with work-flow management with copiers and software. George Seaborough, sponsored by Whitney Shephards, is the Coordinator/Executive Director for Chatham Savannah Citizen Advocacy. He's a Savannah native and is married to Youth Minister, Tyneise Seaborough. They have a 4-year-old daughter named Sabera. He graduated from Savannah High and holds a B.S. in Political Science with a minor in Education and a Master’s of Public Administration from Savannah State University. A member of Branded Hearts International Church and President of Twickenham Neighborhood Association, George has served in leadership roles as a Union Organizer for SEIU, Field Director for Young Democrats of Georgia, Interim Director of SSU Community Future Corporation, Loan Associate for United Way, and Freshman Experience Professor at Savannah State University. In his spare time, he has led high school students on several college road trips to South Carolina and throughout Georgia, served as a volunteer adviser to help students prepare for the Harvard Model United Nations competition, and educated students on the political process of campaigns. Sarah Smith, sponsored by Jamie Smith Arkins, is the Director of Digital Content and Marketing at WTOC. She started her career in television and has worked in numerous fields, including the arts, retail, and healthcare, but the magnetic pull of the universe clearly wants her in media. Sarah has proudly served on the Board of The Matthew Reardon Center for Autism for six years and is a previous Chairman. She is also involved in her daughters' school, where she is the Communications Chairman for the PTA and President of the School Council. She loves attending Christ Church Episcopal and helps with the children's chapel team. Mostly though, Sarah loves being with her husband, Solomon, and daughters, Abigail (10) and Nora (8). If she had endless time and money, Sarah would spend her days traveling the globe, drinking, eating, taking pictures, and experiencing new cultures. She has a degree in English and Fine Arts from Vanderbilt University, a Master's Degree in Art History from the University of Georgia, and a Certificate of Language and Culture from the Catholic University in Angers, France. Sarah is a 2019 graduate of Leadership Savannah. Karen Terry, sponsored by Jordan Chase, grew up in the one red light town of Estill, SC and graduated from high school in a class of 14 people. She spent many high school days aimlessly riding around the country with her friends wondering what people do in places with restaurants and entertainment. After being a very indecisive undergraduate, Karen moved to Savannah in 2012 where she earned a Master’s of Public Health from Armstrong State College. She began her career as a Fellow at the National Cancer Institute where she worked to disseminate research-based interventions from the national to the community level. Karen is the Director of the Curtis and Elizabeth Anderson Cancer Institute at Memorial Health University Medical Center and is the 2019 Corporate Walk Chair for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s Light the Night Savannah. In her spare time, Karen enjoys visiting her family in that one red light town and pretty much anything she can do outside with her cocker spaniel, Cooper.
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Bret's Top 10Here's a rundown of Bret's Top 10 Things Observed at House Party for Habitat!  10. Whitney and Jeanine are evil and were the cause of your Wednesday-morning hangover.  9. The ladies could not resist Josh's tidy, all-business, one-piece jumpsuit.  8. All Rotarians are terrible at Giant Jenga and were thrilled when Bret awkwardly ruined the game.  7. The Metro ladies looked like they could kick most of the guys' butts.  6. Except for these guys, who are totally bad-ass  5. Metro clearly needs to begin recruiting more engineers.  4. These guys looked a little like Bert and Ernie.  3. Bret Bell is the greatest talent of his generation.  2. Professional bubble machine created a magical dreamscape that blurred the line between fantasy and reality.  1. Jordan and Jamie will be planning all future Metro parties until further notice.
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For She's a Jolly Good Fellow Brother, brother, brother! We're at 26% EREY! Say your prayers, take your vitamins, and congratulate Whitney Shephard for earning her Paul Harris x 4 and an extra sapphire added to her pin meaning she's donated $4,000 to Rotary's annual fund, PolioPlus, or the Humanitarian Grants program. We have 3 Paul Harris Fellows, including Robert McCorkle (+8) and Darron (+4).
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Stan Deaton's Three Pivotal Elections that Didn't Feature Donald Trump Stan Deaton sure knows how to grab our attention weaving in humor and history! Stan is the Senior Historian at the Georgia Historical Society, where he's worked since 1998. An Emmy-winning writer and host of Today in Georgia History, Stan spoke to the club on 3 pivotal and contentious elections in the 20th century (that didn't feature Donald Trump) - 1928 with Al Smith and Herbert Hoover, 1960 with JFK and Nixon, and 1964 with Lyndon Johnson and Barry Goldwater. Follow his blog - Off the Deaton Path! I vote we bring Stan back, feed him a few glasses of wine, and ask for a Drunk GA History session! Who's in?!
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Meet GRSP Student - Ariela Samour Meet our newest GRSP student, Ariela Samour, from El Salvador! She's one of 50 students who come to Georgia each year to attend our universities. These students are selected by Rotary Clubs around the world and must be academically qualified, speak fluent English, able to afford the air fare and cost of medical insurance. Ariela is interested in business administration and hopes to be able to form her own company. She's a member of Interact and the Key Club and her hobbies are photography and art. Suzy Wallace will serve as our Metro Liaison with Ariela. Please let Suzy know of any events that would be a good experience for Ariela.
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Raise the Roof, Y'all! Let's raise the roof on yet another highly successful Metro fundraiser! No one throws a party like we do! Thanks to our sponsors, volunteers, and silent auction partners who made the House Party for Habitat a great event! A huge thank you goes out to our Planning Committee coordinated by Jordan Chase and Jamie Arkins! Jordan announced at the meeting that we raised - $16,000!  |
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Newsworthy MetrotariansMetrotarians in the news:
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Newsworthy MetrotariansMetrotarians in the news:
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GuestsA big warm welcome to the following guests who attended our last meetings:
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A Visit from District Governor Mike Muldowney District 6920 Governor Mike Muldowney has been involved with Rotary since 2001, when he joined the Rotary Club of St. Simons Island. Her served on the Club's Board of Directors from 2005-2007, as Club President from 2011-2012, and on the St. Simons Island Rotary Scholarship Fund from 2006-2015, becoming Chair from 2009-2015. Muldowney has earned the recognition of Bruce/Tharpe Fellow for his contributions to the Scholarship Fund, in addition to being a multiple Paul Harris Fellow, a Sustaining Member, and Will Watt Fellow. According to Bret, here are the Top 10 Things Muldowney will do as our District Governor: 10. Quietly mass forces on the borders and begin assault of Districts 6900 and 6910 9. Dye mustache jet black as part of desperate strategy to get more young people to join Rotary. 8. Lobby Rotary International to add Irish Whiskey Tasting Tent at next RI Convention 7. Leave Metro a suitcase full of money at the end of this meeting 6. Make next spring's Jekyll Island All Clubs Conference "clothing-optional" 5. Forever ban all future District 6920 events from being held in Dublin 4. Overcome public speaking fear by utilizing ventriloquist routine and speaking through dummy named Mikey at Club visits 3. Direct all 6920 Clubs to abolish the 4-Way Test and replace with the following 1-Way Test: Will It Please Governor Mike? 2. Approach RI President Mark Maloney about forming Rotary branch of the Irish Mafia 1. Insist that all District 6920 Rotarians speak with a Cockney accent and greet Mike with "Ello Gov'na!"
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Brags, Finds, & WhinesHear Ye, Hear Ye! Please send your Brags, Finds, and Whines to arango.c@tandh.com in order to be included in Repeats.
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Brags, Finds, & WhinesHear Ye, Hear Ye! Please send your Brags, Finds, and Whines to arango.c@tandh.com in order to be included in Repeats.
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Announcements ONE OF US! ONE OF US! ONE OF US! Patrick Phelps assisted District 6920 Governor, Mike Muldowney, in pinning the Rotary emblem on Reshma Shah Johnson, Metro's newest member (one of us! One of Us! ONE OF US!) Muldowney reminded all members that Reshma is now also the newest member of 1.2 million Rotarians worldwide! You can now find the process for new members (and sponsors) available at the front check-in. Thanks to the Membership Committee for helping with this process.  PAUL HARRIS FELLOW Patrick Phelps helped recognize Kathleen Wells as our latest Paul Harris Fellow. .jpg) ANOTHER ONE BITES THE DUST! Congratulations to Justin Hummel and his new bride, Kim! They got married on Aug 14th in California. He says he misses us dearly!  District 6920 Governor Mike Muldowney explained the history and purpose of the CART buckets and encouraged donations of loose change or dollar bills to support Alzheimer's research. Every penny raised goes directly to research, while other funds are used for administration. ROTARY LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE SUNSHINE DIVISION: "Building a Better Rotary thru Education" Registration closes today (9/27) for Parts 1, 2, 3, and a special Graduate Class for the next District 6920 RLI that will be held on Saturday, Oct. 5th (7:30 AM - 3:30 PM) at the Oconee Fall-Line Technical College Campus in Dublin, GA. Some of the interesting leadership topics that will be discussed include Membership Engagement, Analyzing Your Rotary Club, Strategic Planning, Service Projects, Effective Leadership Strategies and the History of Rotary. A special Graduate Class on “Transforming Your Club” will also be offered for those Rotarians that have completed Graduation of RLI.  RAISE THE ROOF FOR HABITAT - FALL FUNDRAISER Suzanne Kirk announced the change of date (Thanks Dorian!) to Tues, Oct. 8th at 6 PM at 402 E. Broughton Street. The theme will be a Kid n' Play house party with DJ Jose Ray, jello shots, and a construction-attire costume contest! We're still seeking sponsors and volunteers with attendance credit given to both. Sign up to volunteer here! Also, we're looking for items for the Silent Auction and need your help and we'll pay you in make-up credits! While all types of auction items are welcomed, we've found in the past our most in-demand items are usually shared experienced building goodwill and better friendships with fellow club members! Some ideas of what we're looking for:
If you can't host an event, we appreciate you wrangling in some sweet prizes like festival passes, gift cards, art, and more. Contact Josh Yates if you have some goodies! Thanks to Cari Clark Phelps for designing the graphic for the Fall fundraiser and thanks to Kacey Kennickell for printing it!  GEORGIA ROTARY STUDENT PROGRAM (GRSP) District 6920 Governor Mike Muldowney explained the history and purpose of GRSP and encouraged volunteers to support Metro's student designate, Ariella Samour, an Armstrong student, with activities such as rides and help navigating her time in Savannah.  Whitney Shephard announced further details regarding Metro's partnership with Loop It Up Savannah, one of our past annual service partners. During this partnership, Metro Rotary has adopted Brock Elementary for our Loop It Up reading. We've committed to getting book boxes made and filled with books, as well as reading in classes. We are welcoming volunteers to read once a month to a pre-K or K class. According to Molly L., Brock has three Pre-K Classes and five K classes this year. This means if we are going to start everyone with the weekly readers component all at once, we would be looking for 32 readers - or folks to fill 32 slots-- maybe some people might do more than one. Kindergarten has reading/literacy time between 11:15-1:15, which we thought would be a good time frame for readers to come if they were trying to combine this with their lunch hour. Pre-K could possibly be between 12-1 since the kids nap at 1:00. But if there were Rotarians who could come earlier than lunch time, we might want to move the Pre-K readers to between 10:15 - 11. I think we are open on which day of the week this all happens. Please email Whitney if you're interested in reading! If you are interested and are not yet approved through Operation Beacon, fill out the background check paperwork for Operation Beacon here: https://spwww.sccpss.com/aa/sp/beacon/Pages/default.aspx - at some point in this there will be a drop down where you can select an organization you are affiliated with and you should select Loop It Up.  INTERACT SPEAKERS NEEDED! Bret Bell shared information on behalf of Bea Saba who is coordinating Metro's Interact Club, which is a Rotary Club for young people. It takes place once a month at Woodville Tompkins High School. Saba encourages you to consider speaking to the Interact members who are interested in all kinds of careers, but especially those in the career pathways that include architecture/construction, business and computer science, culinary arts, education, engineering and technology, family and consumer science, government and public service, healthcare services, and marketing, sales, and service. We have agreed to provide speakers for Oct. 23, Feb 5, and March 5th. Thank you to Jason Somers for being our first Metrotarian to speak to about 40 students on the construction industry. Jason discussed safety (OSHA 10 hour class) and soft skills (importance of showing up on time, communication, follow-through with promises/commitments).  METRO SOCIAL - CANDIDATE MEET & GREET While Rotary International, as well as our own club, are decidedly NON-POLITICAL, local politics and policy affect us all. Because so many of our members are not only impacted by, but also engaged and interested in City of Savannah politics, and because many candidates have reached out and expressed interest in connecting with our club, we extended an invitation to all registered candidates for the upcoming local elections to join for an informal networking social at the Top Deck rooftop bar at the Cotton Sail. Thanks to everyone who came out! |
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One of Us! One of Us! One of Us!Patrick Phelps assisted District 6920 Governor, Mike Muldowney, in pinning the Rotary emblem on Reshma Johnson, Metro's newest member (one of us! One of Us! ONE OF US!) Muldowney reminded all members that Reshma is now also the newest member of 1.2 million Rotarians worldwide! You can now find the process for new members (and sponsors) available at the front check-in. Thanks to the Membership Committee for helping with this process.
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Announcements MUNCH - METRO LUNCH Liza Smith announced a new Metro Rotary program called "Munch" (Metro Lunch) ... name may change because well, because we're all still 14 at heart. I see and hear you snickering right now (...and I like it!) Regardless, this is just another opportunity for all of us to get to know one another and Metro better. Metr |
Courtney Rawlins hit the ground running when she accepted the top position at the 
We enjoyed hearing from Gene who is the new Executive Director of Savannah Music Festival. Mark your calendars for the festival coming up March 23 - April 8, 2023. Joining him were three beloved SMF staff, Ryan McMaken (Artistic Director), Larissa Thut Davidson (Marketing Director), and Kat Clark (Development Manager). 
We enjoyed learning and laughing about all the ways Front Porch Improv partners with a number of community organizations and businesses. This community theater consists of 20 primetime players as well as a couple hundred students. Bri told us that the core principal to any improv is saying "yes!!" They hold weekly shows every Friday and Saturday at 8pm, in addition to 12 fundraisers a year, private events in homes or place of work, as well as team building workshops.
Featured Speaker: Heather Keller, District Governor 
Featured Speaker: Cristina Gibson, MPH
Kristin King is marketing director for Sago Property Management, a boutique firm specializing in long-term residential rentals. She’s also worked in hospitality, banking, public works, and at the Atlanta Day Shelter for Women & Children Job Resources Department. She was raised in Farmington Hills, MI and attended Loyola University of Chicago for her undergraduate degree as a concert harpist, majoring in music with minors in business and psychology. She moved to Savannah in 2004 to start New Arts Ensembles, a live music booking agency, which she co-owns with violinist Ricardo Ochoa. She remains an active/working concert harpist.
Rowena (Ro) Patrick works at the Ad Council, where she leads a cross-functional team, is part of the organization’s senior leadership team, and stewards more than $10 million annually in resources and budgets, while leading all facets of campaign development. As a college undergrad during the tech boom of the late 1990s, her dream was to move to Silicon Valley and work at a startup. Ro was born in Hong Kong and has lived in many different cities throughout her life, but she calls New York City her hometown. That’s where she’s lived the longest, found herself, and met her husband, Brad. 
Brad Patrick is the deputy chief of the Civil Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, where he supervises other assistant U.S. attorneys, paralegals, investigators, and support staff. He grew up “on a dirt road 30 miles northwest of Charleston where everyone in my community knew each other, and most were somehow related to me.” After completing undergrad at the University of South Carolina and law school at Tulane University Law School, he moved to New York City to take a job as a lawyer for the City and met his wife, Ro.
Lexi Henigman is a California native, but lived in New York City for 15 years before coming to Savannah. She earned a B.F.A in Film and Television from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts and works as a video editor and director. Lexi is currently working as an editor on Right Over the Edge, a feature documentary about the extremely endangered North Pacific Right Whale. In New York, she was involved with Hour Children, a Queens-based non-profit that helps women and their families during and after incarceration and equips them with tools to build their futures. She lives in Savannah with her husband, Steve.
Donna Williams of Center Parc Credit Union talked about the organization and traced its origin back to the Atlanta Postal Credit Union, which was founded in 1925. Center Parc expanded to Chatham County in 2020 and also serves Bryan and Effingham counties. She described several of the credit union’s products and initiatives, including 
Derek Goldfarb presented a classification talk, describing his work as director of partnerships for the new Savannah arena, through 
Wessling spoke to the club about the 
Cecilia announced that Rotary has teamed up with Toastmasters to provide virtual professional development certifications in a variety of topics including building a welcoming community for people with disabilities, collaboration, developing inclusion plans, delivering speeches, leading teams, DEI resources, and resiliency. Find out more through the 
District Governor Ed Presnell is a regional business executive with Peach State Federal Credit Union and a member of the Augusta Rotary Club. He shared his optimistic outlook on how Rotary has weathered the pandemic, noting that the district has experienced a net loss in membership of 170 people. This equates to an average of three members per club from the 61 clubs arrayed throughout our district. He encouraged everyone to take their Rotary involvement to the next level and to embrace the Each One, Bring One campaign. 
Whitney Shephard directs our attention to this from Bill Gates: "Thanks to the commitment of Rotary and other partners, as well as the dedicated political leadership of polio-affected countries, I’m confident that we can create a world where no child will ever be paralyzed by polio again." 
Dave Lake, station manager at 
