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The Wheel for February 20, 2020
Listen to Past President’s Review
The Wheel
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Past Presidents’ Review
Caty Crockett 1995-1996
Tom A. Thomas 1999-2000
James E. Hunt 2001-2002
Brock Fraser 2006-2007
Randy Campanale 2007-2008
Russ Swain 2008-2009
Karen Whisenhunt 2009-2010
Sharon McNair 2011-2012
Randy Donald 2012-2013
Steve Linder 2014-2015
Michael Gordon 2017-2018
James Kohl 2018-2019
Message From The President
Dear Rotarians,
I am quoting from History.com “Presidents Day is an American holiday celebrated on the third Monday in February; Presidents Day 2020 occurs on Monday, February 17. Originally established in 1885 in recognition of President George Washington, the holiday became popularly known as Presidents Day after it was moved as part of 1971’s Uniform Monday Holiday Act, an attempt to create more three-day weekends for the nation’s workers. While several states still have individual holidays honoring the birthdays of Washington, Abraham Lincoln and other figures, Presidents Day is now popularly viewed as a day to celebrate all U.S. presidents, past and present.”
Yes, while we celebrate all US Presidents on this day, I remember when the nation and my home state celebrated both Presidents Washington and Lincoln separately. The story of President’s Day date begins in 1800. Following the death of George Washington in 1799, his February 22 birthday became a perennial day of remembrance. At the time of his death, Washington was the most important individual in American history. To further commemorate our Nation’s first President, the building of the Washington Monument in 1848 and the centennial of his birth in 1882, were national celebrations.
Our nation’s 16th President, Abraham Lincoln is widely celebrated by the States. Guiding our fractured nation during our most difficult time, the Civil War, President Lincoln freed the Southern slaves and saved the Union. Washington and Lincoln still remain the two most recognized leaders, but Presidents Day is now popularly seen as a day to recognize the lives and achievements of all of America’s chief executives. Some lawmakers have objected to this view, arguing that grouping George Washington and Abraham Lincoln together with less successful presidents minimizes their legacies. Politicians arguing? No, can’t be!
In its modern form, Presidents Day is used by many patriotic and historical groups as a date for staging celebrations, reenactments and other events. A number of states also require that their public schools spend the days leading up to Presidents Day teaching students about the accomplishments of the presidents, often with a focus on the lives of Washington and Lincoln. I and I guess many of you are very happy to know this piece of information.
Here is a bit of trivia about President’s Day: Did you know? President’s Day never falls on the actual birthday of any American president. Four chief executives, George Washington, William Henry Harrison, Abraham Lincoln and Ronald Reagan, were born in February, but their birthdays all come either too early or late to coincide with Presidents Day, which is always celebrated on the third Monday of the month. Well, three-day weekends are always welcome as the passage of the Uniform Holiday Act in 1968 gave us this and several others throughout the calendar year. Only Independence Day, July 4th and Veteran’s Day, November 11th remain on the actual day.
We are today, celebrating the Past Presidents of the Las Vegas Rotary Club. Please be ready to be amazed at what has been accomplished over the many years of the Greatest Rotary Club in The World!
Jackie Thornhill
President
Las Vegas Rotary Club
Member Highlights
Ted McAdam started our meeting with the invocation.
President Jackie presented our speaker Kimberly Mull with our Share What You Can Award.
President Jackie and Melanie presented PHF recognition to Jaime Goldsmith +3 and PP Russ Swain +8.
President Jackie, Toni Kern and Janet Lencke congratulated Dan Adamson on winning our raffle.
PP Mary Ann Avnet and her husband Steve visited from New Jersey.
PP Kathy Dalvey and her son Max joined for lunch.
PP Karen Whisenhunt and Max announced the soccer match dates.
PP Jim Hunt and Sergeant At Arms Deb Granda discussed the next cigar social.
Melanie Muldowney our Rotary Foundation Director presented Paul Harris Fellowships to our past member Bob Barnard’s wife Yoko and son Larry.
Marie Walsh gave us the breakfast with books update.
Jerry Engel and his Valentine Diane led us with a Love song.
Bill Stieren missed the Joker with a 2 of diamonds. The pot grows on.
Barbara Billitzer won the Lawry’s bucks.
At President Jackie’s head table were Carey Grohs, her husband Chuck and our speaker Kimberly Mull.
Scribe – February 13, 2020
February 13, 2020
President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order.
Ted McAdam gave the invocation.
Jerry Engel led the club in singing “To My Valentine”, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
Deb Granda was the Sergeant-At-Arms.
We had 0 visiting International Rotarians, 4 visiting Rotarians and 19 Guests of Rotarians were introduced.
The weekly drawing began at $4573 plus this week’s donations. The ticket winner was Bill Stieren who doubled his money. Barbara Billitzer won the Lawry’s Bucks.
President Jackie Thornhill announcements/reminders:
International Convention held in Hawaii in June 6-10 an is filling up quickly
District Conference is in in Pasadena. Registration is open. They are celebrating their 100th
People of Action Campaign is ongoing. Please send photos to President Jackie.
Your quarterly and monthly contributions help fund programs keep our projects moving. Please consider donating to the permanent fund.
Remember to recycle Wheels and tickets.
Foundation Match active-club will match up to 500 points.
Please help Rose Falocco 25 Club Secretary by signing up in the green book for weekly duties.
Please keep the green book moving QR code helps you sign up online.
President Jackie Thornhill and Melanie Muldowney Presented the Barnard Family three Barnard Legacy Paul Harris’. Larry Barnard shared how much the LV Rotary meant to his family and his gratitude. We thanked the family for their $2000+ donation to the Las Vegas Rotary Foundation.
Melanie Muldowney Shared info on Foundation matching period. Great time to move up to the next Paul Harris level. Presented Paul Harris +8 to Russ Swain and +3 to Jaime Goldsmith.
Shannon Brown from Beckley ES invited us to Nevada Reading Week festivities look for an email to follow with details. Thanked the club for the career day support. Marie Walsh shared that the students read 410 Books this month.
Rosalee Hedrick New member orientation was held Feb 11th 6PM at Deb Granda’s home. Thanks to Deb for hosting. Great turnout with about 30 members attending to welcome 6 new members.
25 Club President Carey Grohs 25 Club Social coming up on Feb 25th 6PM at the Neon Museum-Lights will be displayed beautifully. Tickets $40 with $10 supporting Destiny’s Rescue. Please sign up. 25 Club Members passed out roses to all the ladies in attendance.
Karen Whisenhunt Mayor’s Cup 10,000 children between 14-19 that attend. German players have arrived. Max Dalvey helped with German pronunciation of the team name and asked for support at Saturday’s games in James Regional Park.
Deb Granda ARC Blood Drive Feb 28th 10 AM-3:30 PM sign up in the green book or at redcrossblood.org code: Rotary donors receive $25 in Lawry’s Bucks. Still need a minimum of 6 more donors.
Past President Jim Hunt 21st Patrick’s Cigar Social Friday March 13th 6 PM bring 3 Cigars $10 goes to the Foundation. More details in The Wheel to follow.
Bill Houghton Director of Youth Advocacy for LV Rotary. Support needed for RYLA Weekend March 20-22 in CA hosting 15 students. Need 13 more facilitators for the weekend. Need interviewers as well.
Kathy Dalvey asked for participation in the upcoming District Conference May 1-3 at the Pasadena Westin. Pasadena Club is hosting and celebrating their 100th Room rates $169 and to purchase all the meals $240.
Janice Lencke Valentines basket raffle including 2 tickets to KA valued at $375 to Dan Adamson.
25 Club President Carey Grohs presented our speaker Kimberly Mull of Kimberly Mull Advocacy and Consulting. A new member of the Las Vegas community and an example how you can take a life experience and use it to make a difference. As a child she suffered abuse and has powered through those experiences to achieve a career in advocating for victims of abuse and sex trafficking . Currently working to influence policy makers and legislation in creating victim focused policies. If you would like to connect with Kimberly find her online: kimberlymull.com
President Jackie Thornhill presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO and then adjourned the meeting
The Wheel for February 13, 2020
Listen to Kimberly Mull – Advancing Response to Violence
The Wheel
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Kimberly Mull – Advancing Response to Violence
The victim of domestic child sex trafficking between the ages of 11 and 13, as well as domestic violence and multiple sexual assaults, Kimberly is a survivor turned advocate. She holds her Masters in Victim Services Management and utilizes her more than a decade of experience working with victims of violence against women, including over 400 sex trafficking victims, to influence policy makers and legislators in creating trauma informed victim focused policy.
Kimberly founded KMAC after a trauma inducing employer led to her realization that not all non-profits or mission oriented organizations are actually supportive of survivors working in the anti-violence field. Seeing the need in the corporate world, she wanted to create a survivor owned company that understands the intersectionality of business and victimization, develop practical solutions for employers and employees, and help foster a greater understanding for everyone in the #MeToo era.
Message From The President
Dear Rotarians,
Our club has made such an impact on our community and the world through our contributions to our local Las Vegas Rotary Foundation and the Rotary International Foundation. Today I wish to follow up on the ways our club can qualify for the 100% Every Rotarian Every Year (EREY) banner. Melanie Muldowney presented this information last week. The details:
By considering what I am writing about, we can qualify for the Presidential Citation as well as the banner mentioned. We have already met the requirement of $100 per capita, which means our club contributions to the Rotary International Foundation annual fund averages more than $100. Check that box ✔. The other requirement for the banner is that each club member contribute a minimum of $25 to the annual fund. This is where we are a little short. If you are giving to our local Foundation, thank you so much. If you are considering applying to receive you initial PHF or upgrade a level during our club match, this will qualify. If, you are not considering at this time, would you consider just giving $25 to the International Foundation? We are also about to achieve our yearly goal of contributions to the International Foundation. Another checkbox✔ for the Presidential Citation that your contributions will help achieve as well! Three goals achieved with a single contribution!!
The many projects of our International Foundation are too numerous to list here. Please go to rotary.org and click on Foundation to know just how our money is being spent. Here is just a small sampling of how your contribution will help our International Foundation with its work.
For as little as 60 cents, a child can be protected from polio.
$50 can provide clean water to help fight waterborne illness.
$500 can launch an antibullying campaign and create a safe environment for children.
Since it was founded more than 100 years ago, the Foundation has spent more than $4 billion on life-changing, sustainable projects. Here is a breakdown of grants issued during fiscal year 2018 in the RI areas of focus.
We can really use your help. Please consider making a $25 donation.
Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club
Member Highlights
Tina Bishop led us in song.
Sergeant at Arms Chase Carter posed with Rosalee Hedrick.
Rosalee Hedrick brought us up to date on our membership drive and upcoming orientation.
Renee Gamero announced our upcoming 25 Club social at the Neon Museum.
President Jackie presented our speaker Theresa Bower with our Share What You Can Award.
PP Michael Gordon gave the invocation.
PP Jim Tucker missed his chance at the Joker by pulling a 6 of Hearts.
New member Janna Velasco won the Lawry’s Bucks.
Janice Lencke announced our annual fundraiser.
Carey Grohs announced the 25 Club project Destiny Rescue
Birthday imposters were recognized by President Jackie with a contribution fine.
At President Jackie’s head table were her friend Brenda Brown, Dr Andy Kuniyuki and our speaker Theresa Bower.
At our birthday table were Bob Werner, Murray visiting from Canada, and Pete Samuolis.
A Group shot of the membership…..except the photographer.
Scribe – February 6, 2020
President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order.
PP Michael Gordon gave the invocation.
Tina Bishop led the club in singing “You’re a Grand Ole Flag”, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
Chase Carter was the Sergeant-At-Arms.
We had 1 visiting International Rotarian, 5 visiting Rotarians and 4 Guests of Rotarians were introduced.
The weekly drawing began at $4367 plus this week’s donations. The ticket winner was Jim Tucker who had the chance to draw the Jack. Janna Velasco won the Lawry’s Bucks.
President Jackie Thornhill announcements/reminders:
International Convention held in Hawaii in June 6-10
District Conference is in in Pasadena. Registration is open. They are celebrating their 100th
People of Action Campaign is ongoing. Please send photos to President Jackie.
Your quarterly and monthly contributions help fund programs keep our projects moving. Please consider donating to the permanent fund.
Remember to recycle Wheels and tickets.
Foundation Match club will match 50% up to 500 points.
Please help Rose Falocco 25 Club Secretary by signing up in the green book for weekly duties.
Please keep the green book moving.
RYLA is coming up so if please see Bill Houghton if you know a student who would like to participate.
Melanie Muldowney Shared info on Foundation matching period. Great time to move up to the next Paul Harris level. Presidential Citation opportunity to be recognized with 100% EREY. Every Rotarian Every Year, contributing on average $100 each year to the Annual Fund Share with the RI Foundation. We meet the cumulative average if each member can kindly give a minimum of $25 to help the Club achieve this award.
Ted McAdam announced the Birthday Table and led in singing Happy Birthday. After the celebration he also asked for interest in organizing a tour of Creech AFB. It will be an all-day bus trip with a boxed lunch included in a $50 ticket price. Tentative expectation of dates in May-June on a Tuesday.
Rosalee Hedrick New member orientation Feb 11th 6PM at Deb Granda’s home. 6 new members to welcome.
25 Club President Carey Grohs shared that goal to raise $3,000 for Destiny’s Rescue a non-profit that rescues children from sex slavery. Please donate what you can. To make it easy you may sign up in the green book.
Marie Walsh Reading Week is March 2-6th. Please look out for email from Beckley to make an appointment with the librarian.
Rene Gamero shared Tuesday Feb 25th is upcoming 25 Club Social-to be held at the Neon Museum at 6 PM. Tickets are $40 with $10 from sales going to Destiny’s Rescue.
Janice Lencke recognized the Presenting sponsor, Anderson, Miller Pinkelman for the Annual Fundraiser. Buy your tickets. Goal is 2 per member. Raffle for basket will be held Feb 13th. Event will have amazing food, open bar and gaming tables.
Deb Granda ARC Blood Drive Feb 28th 10 AM-3:30 PM at Lawry’s. Sign up in the green book or at redcrossblood.org code: rotary. Donors receive $20 in Lawry’s Bucks
Howie Hopkinson asked for participation in the upcoming District Conference May 1-3 at the Pasadena Westin. Pasadena Club is hosting and celebrating their 100th Register now online.
Dr Andy Kuniyuki introduced our speaker Theresa Bower, Recruiter for 2020 Census. Theresa is a 20-year resident of Henderson and has an eclectic career history. She shared many interesting facts about the history of the Census. It is requirement of the Constitution of the United States to complete a census beginning in 1790. With a goal to count every person once and only once. Data is collected every ten years. Any private data collected is held confidentially and cannot be shared even the FBI or IRS. If you receive a census form and do not complete you may be fined. Response is easy via the telephone or online. It helps bring Federal funds into the state. If you know someone who may be interested in working for the 2020 Census, they can text Jobs2020 to 313131 and receive an application.
President Jackie Thornhill presented our speaker with our “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO and then adjourned the meeting. We completed a group photo at request of the District Governor.
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The post The Wheel for February 13, 2020 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.
The Wheel For February 6, 2020
Listen to Theresa Bower – 2020 Census
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Theresa Bower – 2020 Census
Theresa Bower is a Recruiter for the 2020 Census. She has lived in Henderson for 20 years. For 4 decades, Theresa has served successful businesses as a creative brand consultant, a past advisor for the Los Angeles SBA, a writer for Yahoo! and a seminar facilitator. She’s taught at several colleges, including CSN and Art Institute. In 2000, she worked as a Census Enumerator for the Non-Response Follow-up unit.
Census data, collected every 10 years, determines representation in Congress and determines how funds are spent in each community on things like roads, and schools. The 2020 Census will use a new design that incorporates Online and phone response options in addition to the traditional paper option. Theresa will share with us the incredible importance of the 2020 Census, as it impacts each of us on a local level.
Message From The President
Dear Rotarians,
The year is 2020 and you know what that means? The Federal Government must meet its Constitutional requirement to count “We the People.”
“Census day was set at the first Monday in August 1790. Failure to cooperate with a marshal or assistant was punishable by a $20 fine. Today, the controlling law for the U.S. Census is Title 13 of the U.S. Code. The law requires that the census be conducted on or about April 1, 1980, and every ten years after that. The returns must be made available within nine months in order to apportion members of the House of Representatives to each of the states.”
Ever since it seems that our representatives in Washington DC are counting on redistricting and additions of congressional districts that may affect the balance of power. This will potentially give some states more of a representative presence in Washington than others. It would appear that little has changed over the centuries. Politicians were, in the beginning, arguing and they still are! Over the centuries and decades some of the issues argued were, for example, asking about professions in 1790. A New Hampshire representative said his constituents had several professions depending on the season and that question would be confusing. Some representatives were concerned about the questions asked. Others felt more questions should be asked to get a better picture of the citizenry.
So, every 10 years we are put through the paperwork again! When will the Census Bureau get in the 21st Century and let us answer online? Perhaps today’s speaker will answer this question and many more.
The Title 13 law stated that the count conducted in 1980 and every ten years thereafter shall be an actual headcount. The count in the intervening years need not be an actual headcount but may use statistical sampling methods to get a reasonable approximation of a head count.
Today, all persons are counted as whole persons — the original census counted “other persons” (slaves) as three-fifths persons for the purposes of apportionment. This fractionalization was removed by the 14th Amendment. The US Attorney General ruled in 1940 that there were no longer any Indians in the United States who could be classified as “not taxed.” In the Constitution, non-taxed Indians are not counted.
So, as the population of the United States has changed over its 231 years, the census has had to change to meet its demands. As we enter into this census this year, politics has intervened once again as the question of citizenship is debated.
We will learn today what the 2020 census is all about. What questions are in or out. How to become involved as Census takers. When will we be receiving our census questionnaires? Will Census takers be coming to our homes? What about the segment of the population that will refuse to participate? In 1790, the “not cooperating” fine was $20, a huge amount of money at the time.
The final report of this year’s census will be very important to millions of people. We the people will be waiting to see how it will affect our lives and our country over the next decade.
Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club
Member Highlights
Sergeant at Arms Judith Pinkerton photo bombed Rosalee Hedrick’s announcement of the new member orientation.
Rose Falocco presented her invocation.
President Jackie presented our speaker Kat Miller of Nevada Department of Veteran Services with our “Share What You Can Award”.
President Jackie named Carey Grohs as Rotarian of the Month.
PP Jim Kohl missed the Joker but doubled his money.
Our speaker, Kat Miller of the Reno Central Rotary Club exchanged banners with President Jackie.
Kathy Mahon announced her receiving a lifetime achievement award.
John Ingeme won the Lawry’s Bucks.
Jerry Engle on a ladder split the room in singing “God Bless America and America the Beautiful”.
Deb Granda announced the need for members to participate in our Blood Drive.
At President Jackie’s head table were Greg Maguire, PP Steve Linder and our speaker Kat Miller.
Annie Nounna was joined for lunch by her best friend.
Scribe – January 30, 2020
Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: January 30, 2020
President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order.
Rose Falocco gave the invocation.
Jerry Engel led the club in songs God Bless America/America the Beautiful.
Kat Miller led the Four-Way test in a cadence.
Judith Pinkerton was the Sergeant-At-Arms.
We had 0 International Rotarians, 2 visiting Rotarians and 13 Guests of Rotarians were introduced.
The weekly drawing began at $4101 plus this week’s donations. The ticket winner was PP Jim Kohl, had the chance to draw the Joker. John Ingeme won the Lawry’s Bucks.
President Jackie Thornhill announcements/reminders:
International Convention held in Hawaii in June 6-10
District Conference is in in Pasadena. Registration is open. They are celebrating their 100th year.
People of Action Campaign is ongoing. Please send photos to President Jackie.
Your quarterly and monthly contributions help fund programs keep our projects moving. Please consider donating to the permanent fund.
Remember to recycle Wheels and tickets.
2-13 Annual Valentine Luncheon please sign up in the green book.
Foundation Match club will match 50% up to 500 points.
Jim Tucker update on football squares, numbers to be sent out via email.
Bill Houghton Shared info on Rotaract and Interact growing involvement this year need a handful of Rotarians to get involved.
President Jackie Thornhill Honored 25 Club President Carey Grohs as the Rotarian of the Month. 4 Rotarians graduated from 25 club this month.
Rosalee Hedrick New member orientation Feb 11th 6PM at Deb Granda’s home.
Marie Walsh Career day at Beckley ES will be held on Feb 7th info on participation reach out to Barbara @Beckley.
Toni Kern Purchase Annual Fundraiser tickets before the Valentines lunch 2/13. Win a basket with a romance theme, champagne, chocolate, activity tickets etc.
Bill Houghton RYLA club is sponsoring 15 students this year if you know any 10th or 11th graders it’s a wonderful opportunity for leadership development.
Deb Granda ARC Blood Drive Feb 28th 10 AM-3:30 PM sign up in the green book or at redcrossblood.org code: rotary donors receive $25 in Lawry’s Bucks.
Kathy Mahon shared that she received an outstanding community contributor lifetime achievement award.
Dr Andy Kuniyuki presented the speaker Kat Miller, Director, Nevada Dept. of Veteran Services. Miller presented illuminating stats on Veterans. There are currently 19,998,799 million Vets. Their median age is 64. Their income is higher than the median income. Nevada is home to 250,000 Vets. 9.7% of those are women. 10,874 are Active Duty and 676 are considered homeless and at last count 170 of those were listed as unsheltered. Suicide among Vets is trending downward in part to awareness classes such as Safe Talk and an online course you can participate in Psych Armor. Veteran Services are ever evolving, in fact in the last two legislative sessions alone 56 bills were passed in favor of Vets. If you are a Veteran, you may contact the NDVS review your benefits.
President Jackie Thornhill presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO and then adjourned the meeting.
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The post The Wheel For February 6, 2020 appeared first on Las Vegas Rotary Club.
The Wheel For January 30, 2020
Listen to Kat Miller – Veteran Services
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Kat Miller – Veteran Services
Kat is the Director of the Nevada Department of Veterans Services, responsible for supporting the State Veterans Cemeteries, Veterans Homes, and Veterans Service Officer program.
Kat served 34 years in the United States Army. Beginning her career as soldier in the Woman’s Army Corps, she achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant before commissioning as a military police officer.
She has served around the world, to include Panama, Germany, Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq, and Afghanistan; and commanded at company, battalion, and Army Command levels, earring the distinction as the longest serving brigade commander in modern Army history.
Kat’s three Pentagon tours included duty as the Commander of the Army Corrections Command, supervising six correctional facilities and developing policy for the detention of unlawful enemy combatants. After retiring, she taught bachelors and masters level college course at the University of Maryland and the University of Nevada, Reno until she was appointed by Governor Sandoval as Director.
Kat’s education includes a Master’s of Science degree from the U.S. Army War College and a Master’s of Public Administration from Roosevelt University in Chicago.
Speaking Topics
From Private to Colonel—and all the Bumps In Between
Never dreaming of a career in the military, Kat found herself following the promise of a college education into a life she never imagined; leading soldiers on 5 continents in both war and peace. Hear an inspiring—sometimes amusing, sometimes challenging—story of serving in the United States Army.
Celebrating the Legacy of America’s Women Warriors!
Take a walk through time as Kat highlights the history of women in the U.S. Military; from 1775 through today’s modern force. She will draw from her distinguished career to offer perspectives on the contribution of women warriors and why they are essential to the success of America’s military.
You Need America’s Veterans—More Than They Need you!
The media often portrays veterans as broken, dangerous, and unstable. While some veterans both need and deserve assistance, this inaccurate media portrayal prevents many from seeing Veterans for who they really are. Kat shares her experience as Neavda’s Director of Veterans Services to showcase the contributions of America’s Veterans and provide ideas about how you can support our military and veterans.
Message From The President
Dear Rotarians,
Also, on my list of speakers was a representative from Veteran’s services. I asked that the area of focus be on health-related issues. Taking care of those who take care of us by keeping us safe and preserving our freedom is the one responsibility that our government must take not just seriously, (that is a given,) but place its importance as a top priority.
Our club has long supported our active duty military through the Wetzel awards and has, during this year given financial support to the local USO. We are so fortunate to have so many veterans as club members, and we thank them for their service.
To quote from the Institute of Medicine, “The men and women in the United States armed forces confront health challenges of a scope and complexity that few other Americans ever experience. Active-duty personnel in combat directly face risks of injury or death. In addition, both combat forces and personnel serving away from the front lines may experience lengthy exposures to hazardous environments, either natural or produced by human activities. Chemical exposures, for example, may at times exceed those that would be considered safe in a civilian working environment. Beyond immediate physical threats, military personnel often must deal with the effects of being in high-intensity, stressful, and dangerous environments, sometimes for months or years at a time.”
There is a laundry list of physical ailments that can result from this excessive exposure. Most of us are aware of the cancers, coronary disease, diabetes, hypertension, chronic fatigue and so many more, but what about the mental issues? We hear about PTS, used to be known as PTSD, but therapists now do not wish to label this as a disorder. Therapists hesitate to use the description of mental illness. The preference is that is the result of a traumatic event or events. But what about veteran homelessness, drug abuse and suicide?
I am especially interested in the veteran homelessness. Why are our military veterans on the streets? Is it their choice or lack of opportunity? If it is a lack of opportunity, then the Federal government shoulders some of the burden.
Three weeks ago we heard Judith Pinkerton speak about her Music for Life program and how she delivered it to an Air Force Base in Alaska. Another member, Dr Michael Williams, works with Veterans through his skill with Transcendental Meditation. Alternative therapies, that are having some amazing results.
Is the Department of Veterans Affairs offering alternative therapies to our active duty and veterans? Members of the military, like civilians, increasingly are using dietary supplements. Although some supplements may provide benefits to health, others may compromise the readiness and performance of service members. The risks may be greatest for specific military populations, such as members of Special Forces units, who often endure harder tasks and harsher environments and therefore face heightened physiological demands.
These several potential health disciplines and many others I hope are being considered as additions to the standard medical practices. Many of us civilians practice a combination of both. Shouldn’t our military and veterans be offered both as well?
Additionally, first responders are also exposed to many of the same health challenges. They deserve our care and compassion as well.
Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club
Member Highlights
Val Hatley missed the Joker but doubled his bet with $10.
Toni Kern announced our club’s “Together We Read” program.
President Jackie presented our speaker Daniel Liles with our Share What You Can Award.
President Jackie and PE Richard Jost presented a check for $4,000 to Chris Palladino of Junior Achievement.
PP Michael Gordon gave us some wonderful info then led us in song.
PP Jim Kohl gave the invocation.
Kirk Alexander was our Sergeant At Arms.
Chantay Ben Shimon our Global Grants Scholar, expressed her appreciation for our club sponsoring her.
Bob Werner won the Lawry’s Bucks.
Bob Werner introduced a visiting Rotarian from Germany.
At President Jackie’s head table were Marie Walsh, John Ingeme and our speaker Daniel Liles.
Scribe – January 23, 2020
Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: Thursday, January 23, 2020
President Jacqueline Thornhill called the meeting to order.
Past President Jim Kohl gave the invocation.
Past President Michael Gordon led the club singing God Bless America, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
The Sergeant at Arms was Kirk Alexander
There was 1 International Rotarian, 1 visiting Rotarian and
5 Guest of Rotarians introduced.
Special guest, Chantay Ben Shimon, the Global Grants Scholar sponsored by the Las Vegas Rotary Club and District 5300 was recognized and applauded.
The drawing began at $3,920.00 plus this week’s donations. The Ticket Winner was Val Hatley, who received a prize of $10 and the Lawry’s Bucks Winner was Bob Werner.
President Jacqueline Thornhill announced:
The People of Action Campaign is one of our check boxes for the Presidential Citation so please continue to send photos to Jackie.
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is extending their partnership with Rotary and adding an additional $150,000,000 to eradicate polio.
Reminder that the International convention is June 6-10 and is being held in Hawaii.
District conference is in Pasadena May 1 to May 3, 2020.
There is one Business Card Ad still available in the Wheel.
Olena Balybina from the 2019 Ukrainian One World Delegation let us know that Oksana Tjupa, is the Charter President of the newly formed Rotary Club in Kyiv, Ukraine.
Janet Linder underwent surgery and reports are that it went well.
Remember to recycle the wheel and tickets and to keep the Green Book moving.
President Elect Richard Jost presented:
Chris Palladino, Jr. Achievement of Southern Nevada, a Community Grants Award of $4,000 to help 40,000 kids learn financial literacy and job readiness.
Toni Kern provided an update to the new project “Together We Read”. Rotary will be partnering with Spread the Word Nevada with funding from a Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation grant. The content and structure are still in evolution, but updates will be shared as plans begin to firm. Shannon Brown from Will Beckley Elementary has agreed to assist in the project execution. An informational questionnaire is scheduled to go out 2/15/2020 from a data base provided by Shannon at Beckley. Anyone interested in this project please contact Toni Kern.
Shannon Brown said that Will Beckley is p
The Wheel for January 23, 2020
Listen to Daniel Liles – Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar
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Daniel Liles – Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar
Daniel Liles is a proud native of Las Vegas and 2011-12 Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar sponsored by District 5240 in California. In, 2010 he graduated from California Lutheran University, where he earned dual Bachelor degrees in International Relations and Music, specializing in piano performance. It was a professor at his university that first introduced Daniel to Rotary and he quickly became interested in getting involved with the organization and pursuing the ambassadorial scholarship.
After graduating, Daniel was selected to be a Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar sponsored by the Rotary Club of Thousand Oaks. He spent his year of service with District 3010 in New Delhi, India. While in India, Daniel worked in the largest slum in Delhi to revitalize a Rotary sponsored school. Daniel also was enrolled full time in an academic program studying International Development. After returning, and speaking with over 20 Rotary clubs both in India and the United States, Daniel was honored with a Paul Harris Fellowship from his sponsor club.
After his Ambassadorial year, Daniel was selected to a two-year fellowship with Teach For America, an organization that works directly with public education schools to address educational inequity. Daniel began his teaching career in special education at Dell H. Robison Middle school in the Clark County School District (CCSD), the same district from which he graduated. During this time, Daniel completed a Master’s degree in Education from UNLV.
Currently, Daniel is serving in a new role as an Instructional Coach at Will Beckley Elementary school. In this role, Daniel works directly with teachers and community partners to provide the highest quality education possible for the students he serves.
Outside of school, Daniel actively engages with the Education community on various levels. He is currently serving a two-year term on the State Superintendent’s Teacher Advisory Cabinet, is an instructor for an undergraduate and graduate education course at UNLV, was selected as a Teach Plus Education Policy fellow in 2018, and is also an alumni and steering committee member of the Teacher Leader Academy at the Public Education Foundation.
Message From The President
Dear Rotarians,
For the second time this month, we will hear from one of our own, Daniel Liles. Daniel has quite an impressive resume and a Rotary Club history. Daniel was an Ambassadorial Scholar sponsored by District 5240, and the Thousand Oaks Club. Daniel will have much to share with us about his year long service project. Many of us know Daniel through our work with Beckley Elementary. He is always around with a smile, a kind word and support for Rotary.
I want to provide more information about Rotary International Scholarship programs. Some of you may have been introduced to Chantay BenShimon who, with assistance from PP Karen Whisenhunt, is applying to our District for the Global Grants Scholarship, formerly known as Ambassadorial Scholarships. They were founded in 1947 and the purpose has not changed. According to Rotary International, the purpose of the Ambassadorial Scholarships program is to further international understanding and friendly relations among people of different countries and geographical areas. The program sponsors several types of scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students. While abroad, scholars serve as goodwill ambassadors to the host country and give presentations about their homelands to Rotary Clubs and other groups. Upon returning home, scholars share with Rotarians and others the experiences that led to a greater understanding of their host country. Daniel is going to share this and much else with us today.
Rotary International averages about 7.5 million in scholarship awards per year. Over its history, RI has awarded over 350,000 scholarships. There are two types of scholarships. 1. Rotary clubs offer scholarships for secondary, undergraduate, or graduate study. Rotary club scholarships are given by individual clubs and are open to anyone except Rotary members and their families. 2. The Rotary Foundation offers scholarships for college graduates and professionals to study peace and conflict resolution. Rotary peace fellowships are available to candidates who want to participate in a master’s degree or certificate program at one of our six partner universities.
Global Grants Scholarships of which Chantay is preparing for, are for graduate students studying abroad in one of Rotary’s Six Causes:
Promoting peace
Fighting disease
Providing clean water, sanitation, and hygiene
Saving mothers and children
Supporting education
Growing local economies
Scholarships last from one to four years and can include an entire degree program. Global grant scholarships are funded using cash or District Designated Funds matched by the World Fund.
Rotary International also awards Peace Fellowships. According to rotary.org, each year Rotary awards up to 100 fully funded fellowships for dedicated leaders from around the world to study at one of our peace centers. In just over a decade, the Rotary Peace Centers have trained more than 1,200 fellows. Many of them now serve as leaders at international organizations or have started their own foundations.
Our contributions to the Rotary International Foundation are what provides the opportunities for men and women all over the world to participate in Rotary’s six areas of focus. Rotary members are a major catalyst in nominations for these scholarships and fellowships.
If you know anyone who might be a great candidate, please go to rotary.org to learn more about the requirements for application.
Jackie Thornhill President Las Vegas Rotary Club
Member Highlights
Toni Kern opened the meeting with the invocation.
Ted McAdam along with our recognized airmen from Nellis and Creech led us in song with “The US Air Force.”
Sergeant At Arms Mike Cudiamat and 25 Club President Carey Grohs posed for a picture.
President Jackie presented our speaker with our “Share What You Can Award”.
President Jackie and PE Richard presented a check to “After School All Stars”.
PP Jim Hunt missed his chance at the Joker.
Our speaker Jeff Civillico showed us one of his balancing skills.
Our fourth quarter Nellis and Creech Airmen were recognized with our Wetzel Awards.
Melanie Muldowney and President Jackie presented Paul Harris Fellows to Andy Kuniyuki with his first, Lloyd Sauter with his fifth and President Elect Elect (PEE) Mike Ballard with his fourth.
Marie Walsh shared the success of our Breakfast with Books event.
Kathy Mahon drew the Lawry’s Bucks for the second week in a row.
Erik Astramecki joined PE Richard Jost to be recognized for his sponsorship of our Annual Fundraiser.
Along with President Jackie at the head table were Janice Lencke, Eric Astramecki and our speaker Jeff Civillico.
Scribe – January 16, 2020
Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: January 16, 2020
President Jackie Thornhill called the meeting to order.
Toni Kern gave the invocation. Ted McAdam led the club in signing “ The U.S. Air Force Song”. Mike Cudiamat was the Sergeant-At-Arms;
We had 0 visiting International Rotarians, 0 visiting Rotarians and 5 Guests of Rotarians were introduced.
The weekly drawing ticket winner was PP Jim Hunt drew an Ace for a prize of $50. Kathy Mahon MD won the Lawry’s Bucks;
President Jackie Thornhill announcements/reminders:
International Convention held in Hawaii in June 6-10
District Conference is in in Pasadena. Registration is open. The Pasadena Club is celebrating their 100th
People of Action Campaign is ongoing. Please send photos to President Jackie.
Your quarterly and monthly contributions help fund programs that keep our projects moving. Please consider donating to the permanent fund.
Remember to recycle Wheels and tickets.
New RI Committee Together We Read, needs committee members. Chair is Toni Kern.
Member Donald Loyd He has had several strokes. His wife Betsy sends good wishes.
25 Club President Carey Grohs reminder 25 Club Graduation held at 6 PM January 25th at McFaddens;
Ted McAdams and PP David Thorson presented 4th Quarter Wetzel Awards to our visiting Service Members;
Brian Sorrentino reminder the Annual Fundraiser Cuisine and Octane on April 25th our goal is two tickets sold per member. Tickets are $100 including food and open bar;
Melanie Muldowney Presented a Paul Harris Fellow to Andy Kuniyuki made possible by Robert Barnard. Lloyd Sauter received a plus 5. PEE Mike Ballard received a plus 4.
Marie Walsh gave an update on Breakfast with Books; the students read 370 books in one month.
PP Jim Tucker announced 23 squares remain available on the SuperBowl board. Squares are $50 each.
PP Karen Whisenhunt asks for host families for the German boys in the Mayors Cup in February; She needs for two homes to host two boys each.
Jodi Manzella and Mark Faber rec



