Past President David Simmer focused on Rotary’s work to eradicate polio in a Rotary Moment at the club's Oct. 6 meeting. He announced World Polio Day on October 24 will celebrate the 30th anniversary of Rotary’s war on polio. The most recent information from the Center for Disease Control reports there have been only 44 cases of polio reported in 2015, which David represented with 44 symbols on a single page. David contrasted this with the statistics from 1985 when Rotary first announced to the United Nations that it intended to immunize every child in the world for polio. Six members of the Club helped David roll out a banner over 20 feet long that displayed a symbol for each victim in 1985 of polio--before Rotary took up the challenge.
Club member Kent Ellsworth, executive director of Verde Valley Caregivers, said the elderly population VVCC serves is growing. During his Oct. 6 presentation to the club, Kent said VVCC has 2,400 older adults enrolled to receive services, and adds 10 to 12 new "neighbors" each week. The organization receives funding from grants and state and city partnerships, but adds, one third of our funding must come from individuals. He thanked club members for their support and volunteerism. "We receive wonderful support from all of you. You are really making a difference." Kent invited members to please attend VVCC's Oct. 22 Masquerade Fundraiser at the Hilton Sedona Resort and thanked those who are planning to attend and have donated items. To purchase event and raffle tickets for a Cruise for Two (you don't have to be present to win) click here.
During the Oct. 3 Spirit of Sedona Awards event, the Arizona Community Foundation of Sedona presented President Elect Jennette Bill, with the Community Collaborator award, for the club's efforts in exhibiting leadership and solutions for community betterment. The club was recognized for its Slide Fire Story & Exhibition, the RYLA high school leadership camp, and the Imagination Library program and expansion to the Beaver Creek area. After describing these projects as well as many more local and international Rotary Club of Sedona collaborative projects, Jennette said, “Collaboration is our forte! We appreciate the recognition that we have received from the Community Foundation for our efforts!”
Oct. 13--Foundation Committee Meeting, 11 to noon, Barking Frog.
Oct. 14--Human Trafficking Update, Cindy McCain speaking, Poco Diablo Resort, 9:30 to noon. See Holly for more information.
Oct. 17--Rotary Leadership Institute.
Oct. 20--Youth Services Committee Meeting, 11 to noon, Barking Frog.
Oct. 24--Rotary International's 30th Anniversary--War on Polio.
Nov. 7--Rotary Day at the United Nations. To register go to http://riunday.org
Nov. 19-22--USA/Mexico Friendship Conference & Global Grants Exchange, in Sedona.
Bashas' Cards available--another way to support your club
Dick Youngberg demonstrated how easy it is to purchase and reload a Bashas' community card. Please see Dick for a replacement or new card. He has full instructions for use. The club receives about $1,000 each year from this program.
