Rotateller Rotary Club of Owego, NY
Tuesday, December 27, 2007 Gary Williams, Editor

Owego Rotary members and families were guests of Owego Kiwanis today because Christmas fell on the usual Rotary meeting day. Kiwanis President Pete Windover conducted the meeting. The 50/50 was run by Kiwanis and fines were done by Rotarian John Spencer, who presented a number of people with books deemed appropriate for each recipient, Kiwanian or Rotarian, that Santa had apparently forgotten to deliver. There were some 15 Rotarians and family members present.

MUSIC:

Piano music during lunch was provided by Dean Morgan’s 15-year-old nephew who did a great job.

HAPPY DOLLARS:

There were a lot of happy people.

BIRTHDAYS:

We sang Happy Birthday for our Sergeant-at-Arms, Paul Stear.

EXCHANGE STUDENTS:

Mati and Joao reported they have continued eating a great deal and look forward to further holiday celebration in the next week and lots more food. Both have moved to their new homes.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Next week’s meeting will again be with Kiwanis on Thursday, January 3, 2008 at 12 noon.

PROGRAM:

USAF Col. Kevin Bradley, pilot and Vice-Wing Commander of the 174th Fighter Wing at Hancock Field, Syracuse. Col. Bradley returned a short time ago from active duty in Iraq at Balad Air Base, 40 miles north of Baghdad. Balad Air Base is one of five US air bases in Iraq. Col. Bradley described the coordination necessary, with not only Air Force but also the other services, and some of the responsibilities and missions for those working and operating out of Balad: weapons; precision air delivery of goods and people; search and rescue efforts– for any in need, including Iraqis; command and control – their own air traffic control; combat support – security, fire protection, communications. One of the most impressive in his opinion is the hospital, which can handle critical medical care on the base as well as in the air.

NEXT WEEK:

Paul Flagg speaking about his involvement with CAP.

Highlights of the December 20, 2007 meeting of Owego Rotary board of directors

November attendance: 71%; 100% attendance: 22; membership: 60. Resignation of Jack McCreary approved with regret, due to many time commitments/too much responsibility.

Poinsettia tally: 857 plants sold with around $3,100 profit. 30 Rotarians participated.

Singing: Big response to Matt’s survey; 22 in favor; 11 negative; 2 or 3 do not care. Matt will continue to consider the issue.

Rotary Foundation: Annette reported 37 members have started their account or achieved Paul Harris Fellow status and are continuing beyond. 15 have not begun their account. Matching funds spent to date $1330.

Computer for use with club projector: a computer is available for club use and for rent by Owego Rotary at Treadway.

District Youth Exchange financial shortfall: $200 contributed to the District to help cover increased expense because of new regulations.

Fundraising: $5,000 per year has been pledged to community pool use for the next two years. $852 from Orv’s recent show plus the funds once designated for peanut machine will be part of this year’s donation. Further fundraising ideas are being considered.

Progressive Dinner: scheduled for Leap Day, Friday, February 29, 2008. Mark your calendar.

Dick’s Open: The donation received by Owego Rotary this year was $1500. 2008 tournament scheduled July 4-6, 2008.

Next meeting Thursday, January 17, 2007, at 7:30 a.m., Owego Treadway Inn.

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