Stories
Photos by: FR Tito Colorado, P.P., FR Delia Colorado Pres., FR Robert C. Bolt |
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District 7000 Conference |
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Rotary Women's Month |
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Gala Paul Harris |
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119 Rotary International Anniversary |
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Gala Paul Harris |
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Reading Event at Llorens Torres with INERotarians Gerry Hildebrand, Salvatore Nolfo, Maria de Los Angeles Rivera and Georgie Hildebrand started San Juan Rotary Club’s newest Community Service Project last Friday Nov. 10. We read to15 youngsters at the Llorens Torres Montessori School. This begins an ongoing project with Instituto Nueva Escuela to assist in their schools by reading to the children in English and Spanish. We had a great time reading about a young Puerto Rican girl who wanted to fly her kite and become a pilot. We each took a part in the story and acted it our for the children in English and Spanish. This project will take place in the Llorens Torres and Manuel Elzaburu schools. Please contact Georgie Hildebrand ay 831-345-5299 if you are interested in participating in this project. |
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Reading Event at Llorens Torres with INE |
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Christmas's Party- Rotary Diestrict 7000 |
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RYLA |
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DEI ProjectTO ALL MEMBERS Hola. Next Saturday there is an activity in Guayama’s Rotary Club for which I send the invitation, on Diversity, Equality and Inclusion The Governor has expressed her desire that as many members as possible attend, because of the importance of the subject matter . I trust that all of you try to attend the Forum. Thanks in advance, take care. Delia |
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OktoberfestDeben llamar para reservar (787)764-1561 |
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Kevane Grant Thornton LLP Joint PRoPAZ Campaign |
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Escuela Lysander Borreo Terry de Villalba se une a ProPaz |
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Jose Irizarry in WAPAFR Jose Irizarry explained today , September 22, the otogram for Veteranos Boricuas. He also highlighted our San Juan Rotary Club not only wearing our polo but also mentioned yesterday's island wide event promoted by PRoPaz. Gracias Maria |
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New Rotaract ClubInvitation to Rotaract Club Meeting The San Juan Rotary Club is teaming up with a group of young adults to launch a new community Rotaract Club based in the San Juan Metro Area. The first informational gathering is scheduled for 4:30pm, Friday September 22nd at La Isla in Miramar (909 Av. Manuel Fernández Juncos, San Juan, 00907). Our partners are a group of young adults that want to have a positive impact on our planet NOW. Their call to action is "Impact While Young!" Please invite the young adults in your life to join them and become founding members of this new Rotaract Club in Puerto Rico. At the meeting, attendees will have a chance to connect, talk about how they can make an impact and plan the next steps for launching the new club. In addition to partnering with the San Juan Rotary Club, they are looking forward to working with other Rotaract and Rotary clubs around the island and internationally. Rotary International Convention Singapore 2024, here they come!!! Here you go: The link to register is: https://forms.gle/GpYNbBwvUPSgAJk89 Next Friday September 22nd at 4:30pm at La Isla in Miramar. |
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Project PRoPAZ - FR Tito Colorado, PP |
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Project PRoPAZ-FR Jorge Gonzalez P.P. |
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Public Relations Seminar |
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PRoPAZ Project |
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San Juan Social Club - Daven Michaels |
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Citation |
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September 12, 2023 Event |
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Change of Command of District 7000 in Yauco, P.R.San Juan Rotary Club present at the installation of DG Maria del Carmen Pacheco. The event took place at the Yauco Rotary Club last Sunday, June 25, 2023. I addition, two Fellow Rotarians, José Rivero and Antonio Colorado will continue as members of the District 7000 Team. Thank you Delia Colorado, Tito Colorado, Jorge González, Pepito for representing our club. |
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PlentitudPR |
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SJRC-Our Projects Final |
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Photos of SJRC Meeting April 25, 2023 |
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Benefactors of the Scholarship Program
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Passing of Carlos HamillWe are sorry announce that our fellow Rotarian Carlos Hamill, a member of our club since 2003, passed away this week. The newspaper obituary didn’t include details of memorial service. Let’s keep him in our thoughts as he transitions to a better life. |
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Rotary |
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Gracias |
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Why Puerto Rico Now |
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San Juan Rotary Distinguish Citizen Award |
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District 7000-Annual Conference-SaturdaySÁBADO Acompáñanos a reconocer a los aportadores y benefactores de la Fundación Rotaria de nuestro Distrito en la Cena de Reconocimientos de la Fundación Rotaria Sábado, 29 de abril de 2023 a las 7:00 p.m. en el Club Rotario de Manatí. Costo $25.00 Vestimenta: Caballeros: Chaqueta. Damas: Traje de cóctel Inscríbete usando la hoja de inscripción que te incluímos. |
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Rotary District 7000-Conference 2023-SundayDOMINGO Ven al cierre de nuestra Conferencia de Distrito 2023. El lema de este año es Imagina Rotary, es por ello que cerraremos nuestra actividad con una actividad de Arte y Compañerismo Rotario, donde todos los participantes pintaremos un canvas. Si no sabes pintar, eso no será impedimento para participar, porque la actividad te llevará a ir trabajando tu obra de arte mientras compartes y si deseas te das una copa de vino. En la actividad el almuerzo y los materiales para pintar estarán incluídos. Al final, te llevarás a tu hogar la obra terminada. Te aseguramos que te sorprenderás del resultado. Costo: $ 25.00 Vestimenta: Casual. Inscríbete usando la hoja de inscripción que te incluimos. |
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Harvard Opportunes |
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Rotary District Conference 2023VIERNES Ven y acompáñanos en el Club Rotario de Río Piedras a la gran Ceremonia de Apertura de la Conferencia de Distrito 2023, el viernes, 28 de abril de 2023 desde las 7:00 p.m. Tendremos cena y baile con el Grupo Camilo. Costo $ 35.00 Vestimenta: Caballeros: Chaqueta y Corbata -- Damas: Traje de cóctel Inscríbete usando la hoja de inscripción que te incluimos. |
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CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARDTHE SAN JUAN ROTARY CLUB TO HONOR EDUCATOR DR. ANA MARÍA GARCÍA BLANCO WITH ITS FIRST CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARD. The award will be presented on March 14, 2023, at a dinner in her honor to be held at the AFDA. Dr. Ana María García Blanco graduated from Harvard College and went on to obtain her Master and Doctorate degrees from the Harvard School of Education. She has devoted her educational career to the Puerto Rico public schools starting as a teacher in the Juan Ponce de Leon School in Guaynabo in the early 1990’s. She became a parent in 1994 and was “gradually drawn to the Montessori Model’s emphasis on peace education.” There are presently 56 schools in the public school system operating under the Montessori Model. Upon receiving the American Montessori Society 2020 Living Legacy Award, it was highlighted that these schools “in the disadvantaged areas of Puerto Rico result in higher attendance and test scores, consistently lower dropouts, and infrequent incidences of violence, drug use and teenage pregnancy.” The schools transform the lives of the students and their families and communities. According to San Juan Rotary Club’s president, Maria de los Angeles Rivera, “Ana María has demonstrated a long, consistent, and successful career as an educator developing respectful and educated students. Ana María, therefore, continues to make significant contribution in two of Rotary’s seven areas of priority – Education and Peace. This is our Club’s first Citizen of the Year Award and Ana María is clearly a deserving recipient.” For further information please contact Maria de los Angeles Rivera at maria.rivera@pr.gt.com. |
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President Jennifer Jones invites you to the 2023 Rotary International Convention |
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PRoPaz Project |
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Distinguished Citizen Dinner |
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San Juan Rotary Club January 17, 2023-Update |
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Rotary - Make a World of Difference |
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On January 10, 2023On January 10, 2023, we will have a San Juan Rotary get together party at Tinto y Blanco Restaurant in Hato Rey--across from Banco Popular. It will be from 6:30pm to 8 pm--and it will be a cash bar. Hope to see you all there! And, please, remember there will not be a lunch meeting on that Tuesday. |
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In Memorial |
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35th (2022) Thanksgiving Lunch with the Boys & Girls Club |
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Comparte tu compra - Share your groceriesToday, November 19, we join all Rotary Clubs in Puerto Rico to collect groceries for those in need. Our location is the Supermax at Avenida de Diego, across the Doubletree. María
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Culebra press release and interview |
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Boys & Girls Club of P.R & San Juan Rotary Club |
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60 Anniversary of INTERACT Club's
Last Saturday (Nov. 05, 2022) 180 people showed up to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Interact Clubs. The event which was held in the Arecibo Country Club gave recognition to the students and leaders that have given of themselves for the cause. Not just that there was fun and games for all. The Rotary Club of San Juan's Interact Club from the Caribbean Preparatory School was in charge of the decoration, with some economic support of our club. |
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Self Interest Motivate |
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FR Ramon Barquin III¡Gracias a todos por su gran apoyo! Hoy y siempre trabajaré para que nuestro Puerto Rico sea uno mejor para ti y tu familia.
Centro Unido de Detallista |
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Rotary International President Message |
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FR Luis Ramirez¡Felicidades! El CPA Luis Ramírez, será reconocido como #ColegiadoDistinguido por sus servicios a los colegiados.(Colegio de Contadores Públicos Autorizados de Puerto Rico) |
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District Governor VisitNEXT WEEK We will have the Official Visit of our District Governor, Agustin Montanez. .He will inform us of our District 7000's plans and objectives for this 2022-2023 Rotary Year. The meeting will be on ZOOM. |
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San Juan Rotary New Board Presentation |
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CELEBRATING BIRTHDAYS IN JUNE 2022This Tuesday, June 21, we will recognize Rotarians who were born in June. The Club invites Hector Gaitan, Juanita Morris Valentin, Julio Soto, Salvatore Nolfo, and Ramon Barquin, to sit at the Reserved Birthday Table and enjoy a glass of fine wine, compliments of their fellow-Rotarians. |
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A PERIOD OF SILENCEA PERIOD OF SILENCE was held in memory of Miguel "Mike" Vazquez, spouse of Rotarian Sharon McDowell. There will be a Service for him, this Friday, in Buxeda. Condolences are extended to the family. |
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THE ROTARY FOUNDATIONReceiving her Paul Harris Award + 2 sapphires, from President Tito, was Maria de los Angeles Rivera, our Incoming 2022-23 President. |
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Rotary District 7000-Conference 2021-2022 |
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Boys & Girls Club Thanksgiving Activity |
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Volunteer Opportunity Re-build a home with SBPPRDear SJ Rotarians: You may recall our club supported the disaster relief organization SBPPR in their post Hurricane Maria efforts to re-build homes for the economically disadvantaged in Puerto Rico. SBPPR is looking for volunteers to re-build a home November 12th and 13th (see attached flier). Training will be provided. If interested please contact: ebalza@sbpusa.org. Thank you, James Kennedy |
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PLENITUD PRROTARIANS IN ACTION IN PUERTO RICO DURING 2021 COMMUNITY KITCHEN ELDERCARE HEALTH-NUTRITION-WATER SANITATION & HYGIENE / Sunday the 17th Oct 2021 Rotarian Georgie- Greetings to you and the Rotary Disaster Relief & Recovery Team from the San Juan PR Club! Thank you for sending the pictures and sharing the story below re: Owen Ingley, Co-Founder of PLENITUDE PR and his connection to D6970 / GAINESVILLE / UF. This is certainly a timely and much needed ELDERCARE program in this Post-Hurricane Maria period. Great outreach work / you and your husband along with the PLENITUD PR TEAM are certainly “changing lives.” Warmest regards. Padraic E. “Pat” Mulvihill Padraic E. “Pat” Mulvihill President & Director- Rotary Club & Charities of North Jacksonville Over 50 Years Serving and Connecting North Jacksonville via Projects Throughout Northeast Florida & the World Co=Chair, District 6970 Emergency & Disaster Relief & Recovery Committee / US and The Caribbean |
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San Juan Rotary Club- OPEN HOUSEJoin Zoom Meeting To get to the meeting hit control and click on the link below. Join Zoom Meeting Meeting ID: 899 1846 3064 Passcode: 674964 Dial by your location Puerto Rico. 787 945 1488 Puerto Rico 787 966 7727 Puerto Rico 939 945 0244 Tito Colorado President |
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CULEBRA MOSQUITO CONTROL GLOBAL GRANTAt the July 20 AFDA meeting, Dr. Grayson C. Brown, Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Vector Control of the CDC, was presented with a Global Grant 1st Disbursement check of $25,000 for the Culebra Mosquito Project by President Antonio Colorado. |
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SERVICE AWARDSReceiving Outstanding Service Awards from our District 7000 were Juanita Morris and Jorge Gonzalez.
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PAUL HARRIS AWARDRECEIVING THEIR PAUL HARRI S RECOGNITION PINS FOR MULTIPLE DONATIONS WERE: John Hammel and Bruno Mazza. |
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In Memoriam Carolyn Allman |
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AAUW-MeetingLink to enter ZOOM Meeting: Link to enter Mucho Gusto: |
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AAUW-ZOOM MeetingZOOM Meeting link:
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Jorge Gonzalez -Zoom Meeting-April 27, 2021
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Announcing the return of Rotary Club of San Juan meetings at AFDA |
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District 7000-Conference 2021-VIRTUAL (b) |
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District 7000-Conference 2021-VIRTUAL (a) |
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District 7000-Conference 2021-VIRTUAL |
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Rotary International Convention-2021-VIRTUALJUN 12 – JUN 16 2021 Virtual Rotary International Convention Online Event The Rotary International Convention, scheduled for 12-16 June 2021, in Taipei, Taiwan, will now be a virtual event in response to the ongoing threat of COVID-19. We are sorry that we will not see you in Taipei this year, but this decision, made by the Rotary Board of Directors, is necessary to protect the health of everyone involved. We will share more details about the 2021 Rotary International Virtual Convention soon. Here’s what you need to know now: Virtual Convention RegistrationThe Virtual Convention will be open to all Rotary members and participants. Event registration will open in mid-April and will include a promotional fee of $49 for 21 days, with an increase afterward to $65. The Rotaract, Youth Exchange Officer and Inter-Country Committee pre-conventions will be held 10-11 June 2021. The cost of each preconvention event is $20. Both the convention and preconvention events include access to the House of Friendship. Please continue to check back for more details and updates. Virtual House of FriendshipOur virtual House of Friendship is where convention attendees gather to learn about Rotary products and services, share project information, and shop. Those interested in showcasing their product or service should email exhibitor@rotary.org for more information or to request an exhibit application. |
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Open House invitation |
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ROTARY WEEK - FEBRUARY 21 to 27Rotarians from all island clubs are flying banners urging and thanking people in Puerto Rico, for their good and the good of others, to get the Covid-19 Vaccine. San Juan Rotary's banner is located at 1469 Wilson Street, in the Condado, across the street from SuperMax. Board members and Past Presidents Gerry Cumpiano and José "Pepito" Rivero-Olmedo P.D.G., are pictured with the very colorful banner. |
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!Silent Auction!Hey Everyone - - Check out this GREAT on-line Silent Auction supporting a wonderfull Rotary Global Grant in Puerto Rico. This GREAT Agriculture project has connected, recruited, trained, and mentored dozens of new and experienced farmers. It has trained family and community members in the business of agriculture - in marketing and distribution - and it has created a supply chain from the fields to restaurants, shops, markets, and homes across PR. Take a look at the AMAZING items in the auction - ranging in value from $150 and up. There are some significant Christmas 'bargains' in here! (and BTW - read carefully - there are actually 2 villas/weeks on Antigua and 6 in Tuscany!) There is an amazing RUM party for 10 - including a private virtual tour of the DonQ Distillery hosted by the owner - Roberto Serralles - and also - an incredible $1,800 etched and signed bottle of their finest Rum. LOTS of options for bidders! Click on the link to take a look! (and BTW - on the auction site you can also make a donation if you wish - greatly appreciated!!!). Please share with friends! https://www.32auctions.com/Naturaleza |
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San Juan Rotary Club Meeting Dec. 08, 2020 (VIMEO)
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IN MEMORIAM |
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Thanksgiving Activity # 33 with the Boys & Girls Club of P.R. by ZOOM
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Thanksgiving Lunch with the Boy's & Girl's Club Of P.R.
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Passing of Fred von Hillebrandt, San Juan Rotary ClubIt is with a heavy heart that I inform you of the passing of my father and Fellow Rotarian, Fred von Hillebrandt, on November 27, 2020 at the age of 91. He was also the Father-in-law and Grandfather of the Rotarians of our Mayaguez Rotary Club, Gerardo Andrade and Carlos Andrade, respectively. Attached are some pictures from the last District and Club activities I believe he attended, Sincerely, Christa |
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Thankgiving Activity with the Boy's & Girls Club Number 33
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Keith M. Jensen |
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Hurricane ETA Fundraising Campaign |
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Invitation Memorial Service Troy W. Fields |
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DR. ZAYIRE JORDAN CONDE, candidate for Resident Commissioner for the Movimento Ciudadana Party. October 27, 2020
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SJRC Joint Exchange Meeting with the St. Simons Island Rotary Club in Georgia. |
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Steve Waterman para la Campaña del Día Mundial Contra la Polio - Distrito 7000 Puerto Rico |
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A PERIOD OF SILENCEWas held in honor of the memory of FERNANDO VALVERDE, our President in 1986-1987, who passed away in Florida. |
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San Juan Rotary -Meeting Oct. 13, 2020-Speaker Rep.Jenniffer Gonalez |
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CONGRATULATIONS to JOSE "PEPITO" RIVERO OLMEDOCONGRATULATIONS to JOSE "PEPITO" RIVERO OLMEDO, who was honored by District 7000 for his outstanding efforts as Editor of San Juan Rotary's e-Garita. The weekly newsletter delivers the Rotary message and our Club activities to members and island fellow Rotarians. |
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Speaker: Resident Commissioner Rep. Jenniffer GonzalezDear fellow Rotarians, The Rotary Club of San Juan has the honor of hosting Resident Commissioner Rep. Jenniffer Gonzalez as our Speaker on October 13, 2020. We “ring the bell” at 12:30 PM and introduce the Speaker at 12:45PM. Her presentation will be focused on Economic Development and Healthcare. Given the importance of these issues and our Speaker’s unquestionable expertise to address them, the club has made the decision to open the meeting to all District 7000 Rotarians who would like to join us. Our meetings are held in English and for the time being, totally virtual. All those who want to join us please use the ZOOM link provided in this email Cordially, Franklin Earle, President |
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Manuel Natal message to SJRC Members on Oct. 06, 2020 |
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-LAST WEEK-Photos by: Antinéa Rivera The St. Simons Island/San Juan Rotary Joint Virtual Meeting was hosted by the Georgia Club and was a rousing success as well as a great learning experience. Leslie Mattingly, our contact, introduced President Beverly Trainor who opened the meeting. After the invocation and a lovely, filmed rendition of America, the Beautiful, she turned the meeting over to noted author and historian, Buddy Sullivan, who took us through the Columbus, Spanish and English settlements to the present history of the islands along the coast of Georgia. (The Golden Isles). Over the years, these islands have produced cotton, rice, pine trees for paper goods and construction and was once known as the oyster & shrimp capital of the world. We will be looking forward to October 20 when our club will be the host for a return joint exchange visit to St. Simons Island Georgia Club. Our thanks to Leslie, Beverly, and Buddy and all our stateside Rotarians who helped make this innovative meeting a success! Mattingly, our contact with St. Simons, introduced President Beverly Trainor, who led the meeting through the Invocation and lively filmed rendition of America the Beautiful. After bringing her club up-do-date with news of the membership and announcing the attendance of their District Governor Steve Barnes, President Beverly introduced us to Guest Speaker and Historian. Link of the meeting: https://youtu.be/0uPTYtaKo2o |
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'This Close' - End Polio Now |
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"Rotary" |
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What is "ROTARY" ? |
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In MemoriamTROY W. FIELDS, RIP Yesterday we learned the sad news of the passing of our CR Troy W. Fields. We met Troy within the Rotary movement of Puerto Rico as a member of the Rotary Club of San Juan. All of us who were able to share with Troy through the years are witnesses of his good humor, frank friendship, desire to serve others, and his special commitment to young people. On behalf of Marilyn and myself, we extend our condolences to Anabel and her family, to all the members of Rotary Club San Juan, and to the entire great Rotary family in Puerto Rico. Troy, we're going to miss you. May you enjoy eternal Peace in the company of our Lord. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted”. Matthew 5:4 PDG Jorge A. Vázquez PDG Marilyn López |
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Need covid/masks and foodWe are looking for volunteers to help identify areas that need covid/masks and food. And also volunteers to help distribute these. The masks are not for individuals, they are for institutions. The food is for needy families. There is a very short lead time for this to occur so if you can help please contact Gerry Cumpiano @ Gcumpiano@gmail.com or call him. |
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Gone with Covid-19, PR headed to a new normalcy
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Rotary District 7000-Virtual Assembly 2020-ProgramRegistro requerido para nuestra Asamblea De Capacitación Distrital Virtual, acceda a: |
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Rotary Foundation Virtual Appreciation NightThe long-awaited Rotary Foundation Virtual Appreciation Night has arrived. Tonight awards will be presented to Paul Harris members honorees. To connect you just have tonight Friday, June 5, 2020 at 7:00 p.m. to the District 7000 Facebook page on Facebook at the following link https://www.facebook.com/rotariospr/ or if you don't have Facebook you can tune in on YouTube at the following link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvAfo5yu8Ybsne4YS5Ahgyg |
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Para La Naturaleza |
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Rotary District 7000-Virtual Assembly 2020 |
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The Lessons learned during this Coronavirus pandemic, as it applies to Business.Tuesday, May 26th , the San Juan Rotary Club presents María de los Angeles Rivera, Tax Partner at Kevane Grant Thorton and member of our club. She presents the Lessons learned during this Coronavirus pandemic, as it applies to Business. |
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Center for Medicare and Medicaid Service |
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Mask deliveryMay 4, 2020. Delivering 1,000 N/95 masks to Dr. Pablo Rodríguez Medical Director Trauma Center Centro Medico de Puerto Rico and Dr. Graciela Rivera, Intern Ob/Gyn Central Médico. This is the only trauma center in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean! Daphne Bechara and Vilma Vélez from Fundacion Bechara. Special thanks to Georgie Hildebrand and the Rotary Club of San Juan for their amazing contribution and support👍👏💪
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San Juan Rotary-ZOOM Meeting -May 21, 2020Our first meeting was held yesterday on zoom. The presentation by Dr Steve Waterman and Dr Francisco Alvarado Ramy was informative and interesting. The relationship between The San Juan Rotary Club and the CDC, and the Health Department has been long and strong.
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Stay Home!!!!!!! |
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VISITING ROTARIANSLESLIE MATTINGLY from the St. Simons Island, Georgia Club, gave greetings to fellow-Rotarians.
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ROTARY INTERNATIONALPresident Gerry gave Board Member GEORGANNA HILDEBRAND her Major Donor Recognition pin. She is now the holder of Rotary International's highest donor award. Congratulations GEORGIE!…………………...………...……………….
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AAUW of Puerto RicoSan Juan Rotary has awarded a $1,200 grant to the AAUW of Puerto Rico to kick start a campaign to close the gender pay gap in Puerto. Closing this gap means greater financial security for Puerto Rico’s women and their families. The president of the AAUW of Puerto Rico, Betsy Parker (also a San Juan Rotarian) sees this partnership with Rotary as an effective way to work together on a common goal. The San Juan Rotary grant will specifically help to publicize the free online salary negotiation course called Work Smart. AAUW is not just offering this seminar, it is avidly working to get 10 million U.S. women to take it during the next five years: AAUW of Puerto Rico wants 40,000 women in Puerto Rico to take the course. Grant funds will be used for social media advertising, seminars and promotional materials. AAUW members in our club include Pat Schneider, Angela Schlump, Juanita Morris, Carmen Hammel, Jennifer Bates, Hallee Paterson, Russ Paterson and Gerry Cumpiano. For more information about this project, contact Ms. Parker at PuertoRicoStatePresident@gmail.com. |
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BIRTHDAYS in February, 2020Celebrating are: 3-Bert Foti; 10-Eugene Smotkin; 18-Julian Rodriguez Sacristan; 25-Todd Swanson Be sure to sit at the Reserved Birthday Table and enjoy a glass of wine, compliments of your fellow-Rotarians. |
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Banner PresentationPRESIDENT GERRY accompanied by San Juan Rotarian James Kennedy, presented San Juan Rotary's Banner to Visiting Rotarians CHIP LEWIS of the St. Simons Island, GA Rotary Club and CEDRIC TUCK-SHERMAN, of the Manhattan Beach, CA Rotary Club.
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VISITING DISTRICT GOVERNOR ELECTVISITING THE CLUB THIS WEEK was MERCEDES PEGUERO MORONTA, District Governor Elect from the Arecibo Club and her husband, AGUSTIN MONTANEZ ALLMAN Assistant Governor (2019-20). |
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THE ROTARY FOUNDATIONClub Foundation Director, GEORGANNA HILDEBRAND, presented Past President & Past District Governor, JOSE ‘Pepito’ RIVERO OLMEDO, with his 8th Paul Harris Award. |
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Rotary International Convention 2020 |
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Bob SchneiderThis is to inform you that Fellow-Rotarian Robert "Bob" Schneider passed away on January 10, Visiting at Buxeda Funeral Home on Thursday, January 16, from 12:00 noon to 8:00 pm. A Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 am on Friday, January 17. Immediately after, burial will take place at the National Cemetery in Bayamon Pat |
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San Juan Rotary-Christmas Lunch 2019HOLIDAY SCHEDULE - ROTARY CLUB OF SAN JUAN Please mark your calendars: There will be NO meeting on Tuesday, December 24. There will be NO meeting on Tuesday, December 31 The next meeting of San Juan Rotary will be held on Tuesday, JANUARY 7 in the AFDA Club. The festively decorated meeting room saw Rotarians, spouses and friends enjoying the holiday menu, accompanied by the music of the piano virtuoso, Marci Franki. Birthdays in November and December were also recognized. President Gerry gave the waiter staff their thank you gifts for a job well done. Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and a joyful Holiday Season to one and all! |
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THANKSGIVING EVENTAs you will see from the photos, our Thanksgiving lunch with the Boys & Girls Clubs of PR was a banner affair, made even more festive with the surprise appearance of New York State Governor ANDREW CUOMO, accompanied by his daughters. Commonwealth High Interacters came to help and to face-paint the kids. Many fellow Rotarians helped to serve the delicious lunch prepared by the chefs at La Concha Resort. La Concha's special pricing, together with donations from Rotarians and suppliers, were greatly appreciated. There were some highlights that didn't make press time but will be noted in a future Garita. (More photos on the WEB page of San Juan Rotary Club (Photo Album) - www.sanjuanrotary.org |
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Please donate to our humanitarians projects. |
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EXCHANGING BANNERSLast week were ALAN ELLS of the Rotary Club of Saginaw, Michigan and President Gerry. |
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TEATRO POR AMOR |
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Share your FoodRotary Club of San Juan and Santurce participate in the collection of non-perishable items at Supermax, De Diego in the Condado Area.
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Please donate to our Thanksgiving activity for the children of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Puerto Rico. |
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Death Grieving NoteWith heavy heart and sadness, we receive the news about the passing of our fellow Rotarian Johnny Rullán. He was a devoted and passionate member of the San Juan Rotary Club for 20 years. He was always eager to help and collaborate in all the projects we developed. Details of the funeral arrangements will follow. May his soul rest in peace. Con profundo pesar notificamos el deceso de nuestro querido CR Johnny Rullán, quien perteneció al Club Rotario de San Juan por 20 años. Fue un apasionado y devoto colaborador de todos nuestros proyectos, siempre dispuesto a ayudar en lo que se le necesitase. Detalles del funeral serán ofrecidos próximamente. Descanse en paz su alma y que su familia también encuentre consuelo en los lindos recuerdos que dejó nuestro compañero. |
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Boy's & Girl's Clubs with San Juan Rotary Club |
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ROTARY INTERNATIONAL GLOBAL GRANTSalvador Coleman Tio, Coordinator of Agroecology & Judy Galib, Development Coordinator of Para La Naturaleza, a local environmental advocacy group educating and training farmers, accepted the first Rotary International Global Grant check for $146,000. This project started with an idea by the Rotary Club of St. Simons Island, Georgia.
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HURRICANE MARIA Dr. Antonio Grillo-Lopez, Past President of the La Jolla Golden Triangle Rotary Club in San Diego, California, visited our club. Thanks to the efforts of Dr. Grillo's club and other area clubs, extremely generous donations were made to San Juan Rotary's Hurricane Relief Fund. These funds are being used to repair damaged homes on the island. San Juan Rotary extends its deepest appreciation to Dr. Grillo. |
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SAN JUAN ROTARY'S BAHAMAS RECOVERY SUPPORT FUND DISASTER RELIEF FOR THE BAHAMASSan Juan Rotary sent a donation of $5,500, .through the Rotary Disaster Relief Fund, to the Bahamas, thanks to the generosity of our members who responded immediately to help alleviate the destruction and suffering caused by Hurricane Dorian. |
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OUTSTANDING ROTARY SERVICE AWARDS Robert "Bob" Bolte was presented with an Award for his 2018-19 Rotary Year Community Service accomplishments.
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END POLIO NOW!!!!!! |
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BANNERS WERE EXCHANGEDPresident Gerry and Rotary e-Club Puerto Rico & Las Americas, Mayra I. Rivero, PP, exchanged banners at last week's luncheon. Incidentally, Mayra just happens to be the daughter of our Past President and Past District Governor, Jose "Pepito" Rivero Olmedo.
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Rotary Year 2018-19 Perfect AttendanceROTARY YEAR 2018-19 PERFECT ATTENDANCE: JOSE "PEPITO" RIVERO-OLMEDO, BOB SCHNEIDER, ENRIQUE SIGAS AND WITH NINE STRAIGHT YEARS OF 100%, JUANITA VALENTIN MORRIS. |
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PHOTOS OF THE MEETING |
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DISTRICT 7000 GUESTSDistrict Governor Marilyn Lopez, her husband PDG Jorge Vazquez, DGE Mercedes Peguero, her husband AG Agustin Montanez were seated at the Head Table with Pepito and Gerry. |
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PAST PRESIDENTSPAST PRESIDENTS from Rotary Years 1967-68 to the present, were well represented as they escorted the new President for his swearing-in ceremony.
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SAN JUAN ROTARY CLUB-
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WELCOMING ADDRESSPresident Gerry Cumpiano began his talk by thanking District Governor Marilyn Lopez and the many other District officials who came to the Change of Command meeting as well as his wife and fellow-Rotarian, Betsy Parker, and members of his family. Gerry then proceeded to lay out his vision for the direction of the Club in the new Rotary year. With "Service Above Self” as its theme, Rotary has many different Avenues of Service for Rotarians to get involved. Service to the Community is a tradition with our Club as is investing in Youth Leadership through Interact and Rotaract. A major goal is increasing our membership. He urged Rotarians to bring more people to lunches to learn about who we are. By inviting guests and recruiting new members, the audience is enlarged and we will attract excellent speakers. Gerry touched on many areas that need improvement and asked Rotarians to look around the room at the team of people who are about to embark on this year's trip. The Rotary Team is YOU. |
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ROTARIAN OF THE YEARThe Rotarian recognized for her dedication & service went to GEORGANNA HILDEBRAND, pictured here with President Pepito.
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ROTARIAN ANTONIO COLORADOROTARIAN ANTONIO COLORADO received his Second Paul Harris Award.
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What is Rotary ?What is Rotary? from Rotary International on Vimeo. |
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Rotary Theme Logo 2019-2020 |
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HURRICANE RELIEFBrisas del Torito, a neighborhood in Cayey, received a high pressure pump to inject chlorine as the water comes out of the pump in answer to their request to San Juan Rotary's Hurricane Relief Committee. Rotarian Armand Pique, Coordinator of the Project, delivered the $2,060.32 check to Renato Lopez Fuentes community helper in Cayey.
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VISITING ROTARIANSROTARIANS from Greeley Centennial , Colorado were . Evelyn Stiefel and Rock Jannison . Evelyn is President/Owner of A-Frame Mortgage LLC. VISITING ROTARIAN from Traverse City, Michigan, KENNARD WEAVER & his wife JUDITH. He is a retired lawyer and Chairman of Rotary District 6290 Grants Committee.
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FUNDRAISING AUCTIONRotarian Gerry Cumpiano donated four tickets to upcoming musical events held at the Centro de Bellas Artes. Funds raised will be used to purchase better sound equipment for Rotary meetings. At the April 23 meeting, bidding for the tickets started at $45 but quickly jumped to several hundred dollars. The auctioneer - Ray Erb - seemed stunned when one bidder outbid himself several times. In the end, the auction raised over $1,000 as the high bidder for all tickets was our guest speaker, Robb Rill. Many thanks to the 20/22 Act Society for their support. And, Mr. Rill donated the tickets back to the Club so the Auction will continue at next week's meeting. Tickets are for May 4 and May 5 events. Let's hope we can stun Ray again next week. |
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VISITING ROTARIANS MARÍA CAROLINA MALANWE WELCOMED VISITING ROTARIAN MARIA CAROLINA MALAN from the Rotary Club La Commercial in Montevideo, Uruguay. She is the Director of Community Service in her Club. |
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Article in MIRAME Magazine-100 years of San Juan Rotary Club |
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EXCHANGING BANNERS WITH PRESIDENT PEPITOWere Rotarians from the Rotary Clubs of San Jose, Santa Cruz & Modesto, California. San Juan Rotarians were honored to welcome these representatives and their fellow Rotarians to our Tuesday luncheon. |
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ROTARIANS FROM THE ROTARY CLUBS OF SANTA CRUZ, SAN JOSE & MODESTO CALIFORNIAJoined us at our meeting last week. These Rotarians worked with our Club and P.E.C.E.S. to do a Rotary International Global Grant in Punta Santiago, a project that helped 10 small businesses re-open by buying the equipment they needed and training them in budgeting and planning. The Grant also trained 50 underserved kids to be carpenters. These 25 Rotarians from District 5170 and 5220, who funded this project, came to Puerto Rico to visit the project. Pictured are the 25 Rotarians together with our District Governor, Juanita Valentin Morris, our President Jose "Pepito" Rivero Olmedo and San Juan Rotary Club's Director of Community Service, Georganna Hildebrand. |
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VISITING ROTARIAN JASON MACHUTTOf the Marietta Metro, Georgia Club also exchanged banners with our President (Pepito). Jason is the Senior Assistant District Attorney, Head of White-Collar Crime & Elder Abuse Unit in Cobbs County. |
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VISITING ROTARIAN JOLEE MARTINOf the Lake Wales Breakfast, Florida Rotary Club exchanged banners with President Pepito, Jolee is President of Multi Maxis Mfg. |
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ROTARIANS FROM THE CUPERTINO CLUB IN PALO ALTO, CALIFORNIAWill be joining us for our meeting on April 9. These Rotarians worked with our Club and P.E.C.E.S. to do a Rotary International Global Grant in Punta Santiago, a project that helped 10 small businesses re-open by buying the equipment they needed and training them in budgeting and planning. The Grant also trained 50 underserved kids to be carpenters. Twenty-Five Rotarians from District 5170 and 5220, who funded this project, will be traveling to Puerto Rico to visit the project. We hope all San Juan Rotarians attend next week's, April 9th, meeting to welcome our California partners. |
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ROTARY FRIENDSHIP EXCHANGEMEMBERS from District 6720 Clubs in Hinesville, Savannah South, Blackshear, Macon North and Sandersville, Georgia, exchanged banners with our Club. |
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FELLOW ROTARIANSWe miss you a lot at the San Juan Rotary meetings. If we can keep you attending more often, please let us have your good ideas, which are always appreciated. Thank you for participating in this survey. |
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CONGRATULATIONSTo Rotarian LANCE BRILLIANTINE who choreographed for the Ballet of San Juan, the performances to be shown this Friday and Saturday, March 8 & 9, at the Tapia Theater in Old San Juan. The show is at 8 pm. His ballet is one of several that will be shown and is part of the 65th anniversary of the Ballet of San Juan. Lance thanks Rotary for supporting mosquito spraying and refurbishment of the Ballet's headquarters on Avenida Ponce de Leon. He hopes to see many fellow Rotarians at the ballet on Friday and Saturday. |
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San Juan Rotary Club |
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ROTARY WEEK IN PLAZA LAS AMERICASStarting on February 20, San Juan Rotary and the e-Club of PR and Las Americas will take their turn promoting the First Virtual Silent Auction in Plaza las Americas. On webpage www.rotary-e.org, you can see what is being auctioned. An example is a week's stay in San Diego, CA. Fine jewelry and paintings by well-known artists, are also being offered. Go to the webpage and participate in the 8th Anniversary of Rotary's Virtual Silent Auction.
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ON A MISSION TO RECRUIT PROSPECTIVE STUDENTSFor enrollment in the Anglo-American University in Prague, the Czech Republic, was EMILY BOMERSBACK, Admissions Director. Offering 17 undergraduate and graduate programs entirely in English, all of which are accredited by the U.S. Department of Education, with students automatically considered for academic merit scholarships, Director Bomersback can be contacted at: Emily.bomersback@aauni.edu. |
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Three Cheers for Perfect Attendance!Achieving 100% Attendance in the October-December Quarter were: Ken McGrath, Maria Elena Perez, Luis Ramirez, Jose M.(Pepito) Rivero-Olmedo, Enrique Sigas & Juanita Valentin Morris. The Reserved 100% Table will be waiting for you as you enjoy a complimentary glass of wine. |
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VISITING ROTARIANDAVID & PATRICIA PATTERSON of the Conshohocken, Pennsylvania Rotary Club received our banner at Tuesday's luncheon. They had been working with The Salvation Army packing emergency food boxes and delivering to the community. They are still interested in helping our island and can be contacted at: dpatter214@comcast.net
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CONGRATULATIONS TORotarian & Director Carmen Hammel as she receives her 2nd Paul Harris Award from President Pepito and Rotary Foundation Chairman & Past President John Richardson.
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San Juan Rotary recognized the waitersSan Juan Rotary recognized the waiters, who faithfully serve us weekly, with a Christmas gift. Also receiving congratulations for their culinary skills was the Chef and his kitchen staff. |
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Visiting RotarianVisiting Rotarian, ANNEMIEKE DIRKES, from the Rotary Club of Doetinchem, The Netherlands, received our banner from President JOSE "PEPITO" RIVERO. Rotarian ANNEMIEKE is the CEO of Blockchain Projects and is a member of her Club's International Committee.
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Hurricane Relief CommitteeOn behalf of our Hurricane Relief Committee, President JOSÉ M. (Pepito) RIVERO is shown handing a check to OMAYRA BORGES, VP of Fundacion Mochileando, an organization dedicated to repairing homes damaged in Hurricane Maria. |
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San Juan Community LibraryFormer San Juan Rotarian and now a Rotarian in Franklin, Tennessee, DAVID HESS, presented a donation to the San Juan Community Library. Receiving the check was Rotarian JOSEPH SAMPSON. |
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Teaser -TEATRO POR AMOR |
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Thanksgiving Banquet with the Boys & Girls Club of P.R. |
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31th Annual THANKSGIVING EVENT |
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ROTARIANS FROM DISTRICT 6900'sROTARIANS FROM DISTRICT 6900's Rotary Club of Peach Tree City, Georgia, headed by President Mike Nelson, joined us for lunch last week. We thank them for the generous $54,000 contribution to the Souns Puerto Rico Program for children's early education.
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FAMILY DAYDistrict Governor Juanita reminds us of Rotary's FAMILY DAY being held this year at Isla de Cabras this Saturday, November 3,2018. A contingent of Stateside Rotarians will be attending and a warm welcome from our English-speaking members would be greatly appreciated. Give Juanita a call at (787)415-8235 for more information and if you are able to attend this well-organized activity. |
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Global Grants
CLUB DIRECTOR GEORGANNA HILDEBRAND brought us up-to-date on several of the Global Grants funded by Rotary International including the Global Grant for Teatro Por Amor in Peace and Conflict Resolution. This Grant covers all four housing areas that have recruited students studying conflict issues like drug use and gangs. Another large project for a Global Grant is the economic recovery in Punta Santiago (together with P.E.C.E.S.), a project that will provide equipment and training to ten businesses that were damaged by Hurricane Maria and will train 50 underserved residents in carpentry. As reported previously, Rotary clubs in the States have been most generous in sending monies and relief efforts continues as we find worthy projects. |
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Pisadas de AmorFOUNDER & PRESIDENT Julio Soto Cubano of Pisadas de Amor, an organization formed to help seniors in need, gave a video presentation highlighting various homes restored in San Juan, Manati, Caguas and Vega Baja. Replacing furniture, cabinets, stoves, refrigerators, clothes and other goods destroyed by Hurricane Maria, made the homes habitable again. With” A Todas Por Mis Viejos", as the theme, the video clearly showed the dramatic changes In the lives of many affected oldsters. |
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THE JANE STERN COMMUNITY LIBRARIESInvite you to participate in their Golf Tournament to benefit the multiple programs offered to children, teens and adults in Dorado, Vega Alta, Vega Baja and Toa Baja. The Jane Stern Dorado Community Library and each of its satellites - together a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization - are neighborhood centers in each community, connecting people, young and old - to learning programs, online resources and one another. Ron and Anne Chevako, Co-Administrators of the Libraries, thank you in advance for your support, which is needed and appreciated! Tournament details to follow: Golf Tournament at the Plantation facilities in Dorado on Saturday, October 13. Breakfast/Registration 7:30 am. Shotgun start 9:00 am. Two-person scramble. Awards luncheon immediately after the event. Prizes: Three best scores at two levels. Non-traditional Goodie Bags. Food & drink at stations on the course. Entry Fee: $175 per person. Payment via https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-jane-stern-community-libraries-golf-tournament-tickets-49958382868?aff=ebdssbdestsearch or for sponsorship and registration information please contact Zayra Caraballo at (787) 613-2025 or zayra.caraballo@sdcl.org |
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TEATRO POR AMORIn the coming Spring, the Rotarian Magazine, Rotary International's monthly publication will feature our Global Grant Program, Teatro Por Amor. Rotary International recently sent four of their Communications Team to Puerto Rico to get a first-hand look at the work our club is doing in island communities, including Teatro Por Amor. The four RI representatives are: Tom McVey (Sr. Social Media Content Strategist), Claudia Urbano (Latin American Global Communications Team), Vanessa Glavinskas (Contributing Editor The Rotarian Magazine), Alyce Henson (Staff Photographer & Multimedia Producer). That's our Rotarian Armand Pique in the photo with the visitors from Rotary International! |
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ROTARIANRicardo Betancourt who will be bringing guest speaker, Axel Kaiser, to next week's meeting, gave a preview of Dr. Kaiser's accomplishments as Executive Director of the Fundación para el Progreso, one of the most influential Think Tanks in Latin America. Be sure not to miss this young Chilean attorney give his analysis of the current economic/fiscal crisis our island has faced. Rotarian Ricardo also urged the audience to increase our membership by reaching out to Law 20-22 residents of Puerto Rico. |
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Hurricane María |
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Join us ! |
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FUNDACION CASA CORTESA non-profit organization consultant, Ana Maria Dapena, spoke on it's mission to educate and inspire the arts of the Caribbean. To date, the organization has served over 6,000 underprivileged children and adults. Rotarians who would like to help in this endeavor and/or get more information, are urged to contact Ana Maria at 787-429-8810 or anadapena@aol.com. |
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"Idea Box"CLUB DIRECTOR Georganna Hildebrand's "Idea Box" slide presentation, gave a comprehensive overview on the results to date of San Juan Rotary's efforts post-Hurricane Maria. |
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100 YEARS OF MEMBERSHIPDISTRICT GOVERNOR Juanita Valentin Morris presented Rotary International's 100 YEARS OF MEMBERSHIP certificate to Club President Pepito. in recognition of San Juan Rotary's century of the Object of Rotary, Service Above Self. |
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ROTARY LEADERSHIP INSTITUTESan Juan Rotary was well represented at the recently held Rotary Leadership Institute where new ideas and Rotary International objectives are reviewed and discussed.
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Rotary International Convention 2019 |
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THE CONGRESS OF LEADERS OF PUERTO RICOTHE CONGRESS OF LEADERS OF PUERTO RICO's mission is to identify and train potential leaders of our community. The non-profit organization counts over 35,000 alumni considered as the most talented of our young people. Invited as guest speaker at their 30th Anniversary meeting was San Juan Rotary President, Jose (Pepito) Rivero, who was honored with a commemorative scroll. |
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HURRICANE RELIEF
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BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR 2018-2019ROTARIANS WERE INTRODUCED TO THE INCOMING BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR 2018-2019 |
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DISTRICT GOVERNOR & PAST PRESIDENTDISTRICT GOVERNOR & PAST PRESIDENT JUANITA VALENTIN MORRIS is pictured with newly installed President Pepito as he presents San Juan Rotary's commemorative plaque to outgoing President Ken. |
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EXECUTIVE SECRETARY PAT SCHNEIDEREXECUTIVE SECRETARY PAT SCHNEIDER happily accepts a beautiful orchid plant from President Ken for her work this year. |
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San Juan Rotary Club Centennial Celebration |
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CLUB COMMITTEE CHAIRS and 100th ANNIVERSARY COMMITTEEMEMBERS were thanked for their work during this Rotary Year. Photo shy were: Rafael Aponte, Russ Patterson, John Ferrandino, Sal Nolfo and Norman Maldonado. |
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MARK YOUR CALENDARA group photo will be taken of ALL San Juan Rotarians at the JUNE 19 luncheon. And, a group photo of the new Board of Directors.
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WELCOME RETURNING MEMBERWILLIAM MEVS (Restaurant Industry). Bill, a member of our club from 1987-2013, is the owner of Barrachina Restaurant on Calle Fortaleza in Old San Juan. PP Jennifer Bates was his sponsor. |
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SPECIAL HONOR WAS GIVENTo Alexandre Cerqueria for his dedication as Advisor to Commonwealth High School's Interact Club since 2004 During his tenure, Commonwealth Interactors raised $40,000 for their "Heart for Haiti" program dedicated to providing space and materials for the underprivileged children of the Matanwa, Haiti community. There efforts, together with the Skidaway Island Rotary Club, prompted Rotary International to provide $150,000 for the Haiti program. Alexandre is leaving for a new position at the Bradenton Preparatory Academy in Dubai. Pictured with Alexandre are some of the people who had the pleasure of working with him including PP Ray Erb, Anna Colomer, PDG John Richardson, Club Director Alan Austen and President Ken McGrath. Alexandre was also an active participant in our club's Chili and Sancocho yearly event.
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Former San Juan RotarianAnd presently a member of the SCOTTSDALE, AZ ROTARY, Arizona, Bob Murray, exchanged banners with President Ken. He also attended the District Conference in Guayanilla last weekend, where he made a donation of $1 million dollars to our Rotary District for Hurricane Relief. |
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CONGRATULATIONS TO:Juanita Valentin Morris, our District Governor for 2018-2019. Juanita will be vising all island clubs, among other duties, during her year as Governor.
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HURRICANE RELIEFRotarians Ken McGrath, Pepito Rivero and Bob Bolte are holding the banner representing the Hurricane Relief donation of 327,000 pouches of baby food sent to Puerto Rico by the Skojdt-Barret Company in Indianapolis, Indiana and Toronto, Canada. With the help of several island Rotary Clubs, the pouches were distributed to children, with 45% going to the elderly. The pouches, prepared by employees on their free time, is another indication of the generosity of our Stateside compatriots. |
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IN RECOGNITIONOf the work our Club is doing to help the victims of Hurricane Maria, Rotary District 7000 presented President Ken McGrath with an award for outstanding service. |
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HURRICANE RELIEF FOR VIEQUESVickie Michaud, Founder & CEO for Hope Builders, Inc., a non-profit volunteer organization formed to help victims of Hurricane Maria in Vieques, accepted a $7,000. check from San Juan Rotary's Hurricane Relief Fund to be shared among six families to make repairs to their homes and replace destroyed furniture, kitchen cabinets and appliances. Amounts of $500 to $1500 per family will be used for supplies and labor. This project was researched and approved by our Club's Hurricane Relief Committee. |
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THE ROTARY FOUNDATION RECOGNITION GALAWill be held this year in a different way, but with the same purpose of recognizing the contributions of Rotarians to the Rotary Foundation, in a year where our District hopes to complete large impact projects that will be possible with the funds of this entity. The President of the Rotary Foundation Committee in the District, PDG Paul Roman Correa, invites all Rotary members to register and participate in the Foundation Awards Gala on Sunday, April 15, 2018 from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm in the Zafra del Caribe Restaurant in Gurabo. |
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PROJECT VILLA SANTA IN LOIZAA community whose home were flooded by the rains of Hurricane Maria, received 52 mattresses last Tuesday thanks to San Juan Rotary's Hurricane Relief Fund. As the accompanying pictures show, it was a hands-on task for several of our committee members assisted by community helpers. Thanks to Bob & Aida Bolte, Armand & Nereida Pique, and Gerry Cumpiano for overseeing the delivery of the much needed bedding. A major source of the funds available for such a project were donated to our Club by many Rotary Clubs and individuals in the United States. |
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HURRICANE RELIEF committeePast District 5330 Governor, Shab El Awar, and his wife Bricia, President of the San Bernardino, California Rotary Club, were in Puerto Rico to give San Juan Rotary's Hurricane Relief Fund a $13,000 donation. PDG Shab El Awar also gave a two-hour seminar covering Rotary International's Global Grants Program. Accompanying the California Rotarians were members of our Club.
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WELCOME NEW ROTARIANS
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A MASS IN MEMORYA MASS IN MEMORY OF Rotarian Didi Connelly will be celebrated on Monday, January 29, at Stella Maris Church at 7:00 pm. Her family invites all her fellow-Rotarians and friends to be there as Didi loved her 20 years in Rotary. |
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99th birthdayROTARIANS celebrated the 99th birthday of Charles "Chuck" Hitt with song and applause. A pioneer in housing developments, a community leader and champion on the tennis courts, Chuck has been a positive spokesman for our island for many, many years. Happy Birthday, Chuck, from all your fellow-Rotarians! |
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CHRISTMAS GIFTSPresident Ken distributed Christmas gifts to the waiters in appreciation of their fine weekly service. |
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Merry ChristmasWe wish one and all a Happy Holiday Season and will see you again on January 9. |
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Four Way TestSecretary of State Luis Rivera Marin and SBA Public Affairs Specialist, Annie Mustafa Ramos, receiving their Four Way Test Speaker Mugs from President Ken McGrath. |
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FEMA - SBARepresentatives of both FEMA and the Small Business Administration (SBA) were our guests last Tuesday. Hector Soto of FEMA and Annie Mustafa Ramos of SBA gave us an update on their respective organization's endeavors in Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricanes Irma and Maria. Thanks to Rotarian Ed Collins who made the arrangements. |
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OFFICERS-DIRECTORS FOR ROTARY YEAR 2018-2019:
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District Governor Official VisitThe San Juan Rotary Board of Directors met with District Governor Jose Lucas Rodriguez on his Official Visit to the Club. Our Board presented its Plans and Objectives for this Rotary Year. Due to an interruption called "Hurricane Maria", the September meeting had a bit of a delay. |
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DISTRICT GOVERNOR ELECT, Juanita MorrisDISTRICT GOVERNOR ELECT, Juanita Morris, received her lapel pin from 2017-18 DG Jose Lucas Rodriguez. Past President Juanita will serve as DG in 2018-19. |
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Toronto, Canada - 2018 |
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TORONTO, CANADA -2018 |
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GOOD NEWSOur Past President, Dr. John Rullan, has made a full recovery after his recent hospitalization. Johnny is at his brother's home in San Diego and will be returning soon to Puerto Rico.
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Get Well WishesALL OUR BEST WISHES to Past President Dr. Johnny Rullan as he is undergoing a bone marrow transplant. |
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COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECTClub Director Alan Austen accepts the Community Service Project Award $680 check for the Interact Club of Commonwealth HS. |
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COMMUNITEREWe heard from Sam Bloch, Director of Communitiere, a San Francisco based organization active world wide that responds and brings relief to disasters stricken areas. |
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UPDATE ON COMMUNITY HEALTH
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Congratulations to Valentina Rivera-Muñoz
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FRIENDS OF MATENWAExecutive Director, Chris Low, gave an overview of the project's 21 years of serving the youth in Matenwa, Haiti. |
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Pittsburgh Rotary ClubPAST PRESIDENT, Juanita Morris, visited the Pittsburgh Rotary Club, who sponsored San Juan Rotary 100 years ago. She invited the Club to our Centennial Celebration next year. Both the Pittsburgh Club president and their District Governor Elect will try to come to our event. |
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URGENT NEED FOR BLOOD DONORSURGENT NEED FOR BLOOD DONORS for Rotarian Louis Petit who needs a transfusion to be able to have his kidney dialysis. If you are or know someone who is a regular donor, please call Mr. Roberto Garcia at the Banco de Sangre, 787-751-6115 ext 614, located on Roosevelt Avenue in front of the Claro store and specify the donation is for Louis V. Petit, Doctors Hospital, Room 320. Four persons are needed for the transfusion. If you need more information, please contact Vivian Rosado at Mobile Paints, 787-396-4842 or 787-257-2200 ext 302 |
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Rotary International Convention 2017-2018 |
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District Area OneDISTRICT AREA ONE ZONE REPRESENTATIVE, JIMMY GONZALEZ OF THE SANTURCE CLUB, HIS WIFE MARGARITA OF THE E-CLUB, PICTURED TOGETHER WITH SAN JUAN ROTARIANS KEN, JENNIFER AND PEPITO RIVERO. |
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PAST PRESIDENTMANY OF OUR PAST PRESIDENTS CAME TO THE CHANGE OF COMMAND |
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You ?Are you an established professional who wants to make positive changes in your community and the world? Our club members are dedicated people who share a passion for community service and friendship. Becoming a Rotarian connects you with a diverse group who share your drive to give back. |
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Rotarian of the YearThe coveted ROTARIAN OF THE YEAR was awarded to Vice President and former District Governor, Jose M. Rivero-Olmedo. CONGRATULATIONS PEPITO! |
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DONATIONA DONATION OF $125.00 was made by our club to the Graduating Class 2017 at Escuela Superior Ramon Power y Giralt located in the Llorens Torres Housing Complex. Rotarian Angela Schlump is shown receiving the check which will help fund the graduation expenses of several needy students. |
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DISTRICT MATCHING FUNDSThe Mano Amiga (Helping Hand) Program received District 7000 matching fund check for $1,000. Rotarian Carlos Hamill accepted the donation on behalf of Mano Amiga, which was one of our Community Service Projects this Rotary year. |
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REVELRY AT THE OLIVE GARDENTwenty-eight members and guests enjoyed the food and fellowship at the Wednesday fundraising dinner at The Olive Garden located in the Convention Center Area. The Club will be receiving 25% of the total receipts to aid in our Community Service Projects. A very nice gesture, indeed!
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Rotary Tennis TournamentThis past Friday the Rotary Tennis Tournament was held at the Isla Verde Tennis Club. Five Rotarians and seven friends of the club competed for the Passarell Trophy: Julian Rodriguez, Luis Ramirez, Georgie Hildebrand, Warwick Butler and Jennifer Bates participated. Kamil Assad, long-time club pro, ran the draw and coordinated the play. Twelve players hit seven rounds on three courts. The Rotarian who took first place was Jennifer Bates, with Julian Rodriguez in a close second. |
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OLIVE GARDEN REST.-FUND RAISING ACTIVITY |
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IN APPRECIATIONOf the San Juan Community Library's cooperation with our Chili Cook Off last Sunday, President Jennifer presented Library Director, Constance Estades, with a contribution from San Juan Rotary. The Library, now 30 years old, had over 9,000 visitors last year with 16,000 books circulated.
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ROTARACTThe Club was pleased to honor officers and members of the Inter-American University Rotaract Club, Rotary International's university student organization whose motive is to promote interest in serving the community and introducing young people to Rotary. Fellow Rotarian, Edwin Aquino is their Advisor.
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Chili & Sancocho Cookoff - 2017 |
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INTER-CITY MEETINGClub members Edwin Aquino, Jennifer Bates, Bob Bolte, Gerry Cumpiano, Troy Fields, Juanita Morris and Angela Schlump, attended a special Intercitadina dinner of Area 1 Clubs on March 7.
Pictured are the presidents of the seven Area 1 Clubs, Assistant Governor, Jimmy Gonzalez, and the guest speaker of the night, Secretary of State, Luis Rivera Marin.
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Chili & Sancocho Cook Off (2017) |
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Chil & Sancocho Cookoff-26-febero-2017 |
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THE CLUB CONGRATULATESFellow-Rotarian, Dr. Rafael Rodriguez-Mercado, on his appointment as the Incoming Secretary of Health for Puerto Rico.
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Paul Harris AwardRotarian Jose Ballester received his Paul Harris recognition items from Hector Gaitan, Club Director of The Rotary Foundation.
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TURKEY RACESHeld this year on Friday, November 181 when 184 turkeys were awarded to young (6-7-8 graders) winners from the metro public schools. Thanks go to organizer Rotarian Angela Schlump who also did the negotiating with turkey supplier, Costco. Monies for the turkeys were raised among San Juan Rotarians as well as the Rotary Clubs in our Zone, and the Darjo Foundation. Those who attended witnessed the enthusiasm of the students. |
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Rotary District 7000 - Conference 2017 |
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HELP for HAITIFormer San Juan Rotarian George McDougall was a guest of John Regis, Jr at the club's November 1st luncheon meeting. George took that opportunity to make his contribution to our Haiti Hurricane Relief Fund. Thank you, George.
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TURKEY RACE |
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Comparte Tú Compra |
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ROTARY SCHOLARSHIP FUNDOn Tuesday, August 18, following a pledge of $180 from Jose's Rotary Scholarship Fund, nine San Juan Rotarians offered to kick in $25 to help buy Jose Mendez a new laptop computer.
Rotarian Jocelyn Javernick and PDG John Richardson are seen here that afternoon with Jose at Best Buy with the new computer in hand.
Jose will be using this laptop to further his career and studies in graphic design at the Liceo de Artes y Tecnologia. Last week, Jose was also hired by Marshall's Department Stores in Old San Juan as a sales associate.
Our thanks to the following Rotarians for contributing to this Cause: Alan Austen, Jennifer Bates, Rabiah Foss, Jorge Gonzalez, John Hammel, Jocelyn Javernick, John Richardson, Joe Sampson and Rosita Torruella.
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Rotary Institute Zone 33-34 in Charlotte, NC.During the recent Rotary Institute (Zones 33-34) in Charlotte, NC, Oct. 13-16, 2016, our PDG Jose M (Pepito) Rivero, had the opportunity to share with Joe Mulkerrin, RI Director (Zones 33-34) and RI Pres for 2017-2018, Ian Riseley from Victoria, Australia. Zones 33-34 gathered PDG’s, Governors, GE and GN from Mid Atlantic & Southeastern USA, the Caribbean, Puerto Rico, French Guiana and Suriname.
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August is Bring a Friend month!!! Each member will bring at least one guest to lunch during this month of August. |
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WELCOME BACK, CARLOS Inducted into the Club was former member (2003-10) CARLOS HAMILL.
He is a Consultant with Barquin International. Troy Fields is his sponsor.
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Hello Again !First up in this new first-of-each-month feature to reintroduce long time San Juan Rotarians to new members was Charles “Chuck” Hitt. A member since 1972, who was sponsored by Troy Fields, Chuck had a good suggestion - a yearly Rotary Reunion to invite former members as well as members we do not see often, if ever. As he said, “Rotary does many good things. But the glue that binds us together is FELLOWSHIP.”
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Scholarship Students Need HelpWhen Llorens Torres resident Karol Oviedo was first invited to attend Robinson School in the sixth grade, the School agreed to cover the cost of her tuition and San Juan Rotary offered to cover the cost of books, uniforms, lunches, and other school-related expenses, totaling $2000 per year. Through the years, we witnessed how Karol made the best of her opportunity and has blossomed as a young lady and honor student as she prepares for college at Emory University.
The scholarship program has been expanded so that in the current 2015-16 year, three students from Llorens afforded the opportunity to attend the private school. Robinson has been successful in raising funds for the tuition expenses of these students, but the students still need the books, uniforms, and miscellaneous expenses covered (the cafeteria caterer has agreed to cover the lunches.) Also needed is a used laptop computer for one of the students. The funds needed for these students is about $1000 per student - $3000 total. If you would like to contribute to the future of an underprivileged and deserving student, you can make a donation and charge it to your Rotary account earmarked: Robinson Scholarship.
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Invitation to Lunch with Salvation Army GeneralAn invitation to meet and lunch with the World Leader of the Salvation Army, General Andre Cox, has been extended to all Rotarians by our Major Jorge Marzan. The luncheon will be held at the Salvation Army’s headquarters, 1679 Ponce de Leon Avenue corner of San Jorge St. Lunch is free. Parking on Ponce de Leon, right before you get to the office building. Major Jorge asks that you confirm on or before next Monday, August 24, by calling (787) 999-7000.
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When we last met...In his address to the Rotary Club of San Juan, District Governor Jesus A. Vivas offered enthusiasm and shared his vision. The following is the speech he gave, for those who may have missed it:
Dear fellow Rotarians and friends, it is a privilege to be here today in my official visit as Governor of Rotary district 7000.
In my meeting today with Raymond and the Board of Directors, I had the opportunity to discuss and interchange some ideas and could appreciate the work the club have planned for this rotary year. I’m convinced that if you do what you have planned, this year will be full of rotary work but also full of joy and satisfaction for a job well done.
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Rotarian Dan Hildebrand Shares Wellness Project SuccessRotarian Dan Hildebrand, Headmaster of Robinson School, visited the Rotary Club of Wellesley, Mass. where he told about the success of the Youth Wellness Project accomplished in Puerto Rico due to the joint efforts of the Wellesley Club and San Juan Rotary. The Youth Wellness Project is funded by a Rotary International Global Grant.
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Carmen Hammel Presented with Rotarian of Year awardCONGRATULATIONS to Carmen Hammel as she received her “Rotarian of The Year” award for outstanding Rotary service as Chair of the Speaker’s Committee. Presenting the award during our last luncheon meeting was Immediate Past President Jorge Gonzalez.
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When we last met...New Rotarian, Jillian Carmichael gave an interesting talk on the multi-faceted gold mining industry. China, Australia, Russia, the US, Peru and South Africa have the largest working mines. The planets Mars, Mercury and Venus are thought to have gold. Back to Earth, 166,000 tons of gold have been mined with 80% still buried underground. Our neighbor, the Dominican Republic, mined 1,155 tons in 2014. Puerto Rico’s gold mines were depleted by 1570. The ore is drilled and blasted, crushed, leached and poured to make the beautiful metal we so covet. Rotarian Jillian, a native of Hawaii and a graduate from the U of Hawaii at Manoa, has lived and worked in Santiago Chile and later in Denver, Colorado where she is Director of Global Marketing for Cyanco International, a chemical producer to the gold mining industry.
She moved to Puerto Rico two years ago and continues to work in global marketing for Cyanco from San Juan. Jillian was brought to us by fellow-member Ken McGrath, who is also her father-in-law.
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Parade of Past PresidentsAs part of last week's ceremony, several Past Presidents of San Juan Rotary headed by Dr. Rafael Aponte, President in 1967-68, escorted Incoming President Ray Erb to the podium, accompanied by District Governor Jesus Vivas. |
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SJR Makes Donation to YWCA |
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Thanks for a great year |
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Rotarians Helping Rotary to Grow |
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Rotary Souns Program Working in the Community |
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SJR Garners 3 Awards at District ConferenceOur Club and its leaders were recently honored with District Awards at the District conference in Carolina. Receiving high recognitions with Immediate Past President Juanita Morris for organizing and directing this year's District Conference; Director Raymond Erb as leader of RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership); and our newsletter, La Garita, for quality and content. San Juan Rotary congratulates District Governor Jose M.(Pepito) Rivero Olmedo for his leadership of District 7000 in 2014-15.
PP Juanita is shown in the photo receiving the award as President of the District Conference Committee. To her left is the representative of the President of Rotary International, Jose Moreno from Guatemala, and to the right is Jose M.(Pepito) Rivero, Governor of District 7000. Juanita was the first women in 76 years to run the District Conference included speakers such as the Secretary of State, David Bernier, the Comptroller of Puerto Rico, Yesmin Valdivieso, and two representatives from the Agricultural Department, the Under Secretary of Agriculture and the Executive Assistant.
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April Birthday RotariansRotarians Blowing out the Candles in April are: 4-Rafael Aponte & Tom Tarbox; 12-Enrique Sigas; 17-Scott Chazdon; 26-Gerald Goldsmith; 27-Bob Schneider; 29-Jorge Gonzalez & Ken McGrath; 30-Rafael Acosta.
Be sure to sit at the reserved Birthday Table and enjoy a complimentary glass of birthday wine!
Shown in the photo is our own dear Birthday Boy Bob Schneider at his recent 90th Birthday Bash with granddaughters Miranda and Amalia--- Bob, you make 90 look like the new 70! Happy Birthday!
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Chili/Sancocho Fundraiser a Huge SuccessCommittee Chair, Jennifer Bates, reported that the February 8th Cook Off raised $10,000+, thanks to the efforts of her committee and to all Rotarians who supported the community service activity. |
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Welcome Warwick Butler to SJRWelcome our newest member Warwick W. Butler (Industrial Shelving- Retired). Warwick, a longtime resident of Puerto Rico was sponsored by Chuck Hitt & Jose Ballester.
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Matching Grant Benefits YWCA LadiesDistrict Governor Jose Rivero, President Jorge Gonzalez, Rotary Foundation Director Jorge Socca and Past President Juanita Morris were among the group of Rotarians who participated in the inauguration of the newly constructed Ladie’s restroom at the YWCA . Also present were several of the young ladies who will benefit from the vastly improved facilities thanks to a matching grant from our District 7000. This project is a perfect example of your donations to The Rotary Foundation at work. |
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The Votes have been counted-- A New Board!San Juan Rotary's Board of Directors for 2015-16, will take office on July 1, 2015 consisting of: President Raymond Erb; President-Elect Jennifer Bates; Vice President Kenneth McGrath; Secretary Orlando Fiallo; Treasurer Luis Ramirez; Immediate Past President Jorge Gonzalez; Directors Troy Fields, Hector Gaitan, Dr. Johnny Rullan, Carlos Suarez & Denis Vaz. Congratulations and thank you to our esteemed incoming Board! |
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Get Ready for the 2nd Annual Chili Cookoff!The 2nd Annual Chili & Sancocho Cookoff is set for Sunday February 8, at the YWCA. Put this event that supports our Club and the YWCA on your priority social calendar! |
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Julian Rodriguez Takes Home Pasarel Trophy
SAN JUAN ROTARY TENNIS TOURNAMENT winner of the Charles Pasarell Trophy for 2014, Julian Rodriguez-Sacristan, proudly receives the coveted trophy from Club Director Carmen Hammel. Congratulations Julian! |
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SJR presents matching grant to YWCAA $10,000 Rotary Foundation Matching Grant check was presented to YWCA Director Juanita Morris by Treasurer Kenneth McGrath. Our Club's Foundation Director Jorge Socca, YWCA board members, Carmen Bravman and Maria Arill de Rullan and two youngsters who shared their experiences as recipients of the YWCA's services, also participated. The funds are earmarked for much needed improvements to the historic facilities located on Ponce de Leon Avenue in Miramar. |
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Welcome New Member Gary FossInducted into the Club during our most recent luncheon was our guest speaker, Gary D. Foss, President & CEO of Seaborne Airlines. His classification is (Airlines: Regional). Gary was sponsored by President Jorge Gonzalez. |
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Caribbean Partnership Seminar Hosted in San JuanThe Caribbean Partnership Seminar that recently took place at the Intercontinental Hotel brought together Rotarians from Zones 33 and 34 with the purpose to foster friendship and partnership between the Southeast U.S. and Caribbean Rotary Clubs. Ray Erb and Juanita Morris represented our Club as part of District 7000 contingent. |
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Congrats Miguel Pons on 63 Years of ServiceAlthough he was not able to attend our luncheon, Past President Juanita made sure that, San Juan Rotary's oldest and longest member, 102-year-old Miguel Pons, received his pin for 63 years of membership. Don Miguel faithfully follows our activities by reading the Garita every week. |
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PP Charles Elias Celebrates 32 Years as a RotarianCONGRATULATIONS to Past President Charles Elias (2000-01) who recently received his 32-year membership in San Juan Rotary lapel pin from Past President Juanita. |
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2013-14 New Member Sponsorship ChampionsFor their admirable efforts to keep the Club membership on the rise, Jorge Gonzalez and Ray Erb earned a well-deserved recognition at last week’s luncheon. Rotary International sent the special lapel pins especially for this important presentation. Keep up the good work Jorge and Ray! |
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2013-2014 Board of DirectorsWelcome and Congratulations to our New Board President: Jorge Gonzalez President Elect: Raymond Erb Vice President: Jennifer Bates Treasurer: Kenneth McGrath Secretary: Orlando Fiallo Director-Club Administration: Didi Connelly Director-Membership: Troy Fields Director-Public Relations: Carmen Hammel Director-Service Projects: Johnny Rullan Director-Rotary Foundation: Jorge Socca Immediate Past President: Juanita Morris |
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George Mark Earns Paul Harris +2George Mark received his pin for Paul Harris + 2--congrats George! |
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New President Jorge Presents Vision for 2014-15
New President Jorge gave an overview of his vision for the 2014-15 Rotary year. He stated that there is no need to reinvent the wheel as Juanita did an excellent job and we will build on what was achieved and try to do even better. He noted that continuing to have interesting speakers is critical. He also said that his priority would be a 5% increase in our membership and members inviting guests to have more persons attending the luncheons are two of his aims. Some new activities that will be considered for the coming year: A joint project with Wellesley Rotary for youth emotional wellness (8-14 year olds) utilizing high school leaders who are trained in coping skills to avoid depression. In addition, he said we have 4-5 English speaking schools and a goal would be to have one agree to participate with enthusiasm. He explained that this will be discussed at Board level for consideration and approval. At the District level, we will have Juanita chairing the District Conference in March at the Intercontinental Hotel. He also reported that o Our fundraising efforts will be headed by Jennifer Bates (2nd Annual Chili Cook-off) and an Auction with Troy Fields, our talented auctioneer.
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Committee Chairs Recognized
In recognition of their significant contributions to the success of the SJR, Certificates of Recognition were awarded to: Bucky Tervo (Audio-Visual); Sol Bravman (Thanksgiving Event); Louis Petit (Classifications); Joseph Sampson (Chaplain's); Hector Gaitan (Sgt. at Arms); John Ferrandino (Birthdays); Didi Connelly (Door Prize); Raymond Erb (Chili Cook-Off); and Denis Vaz (Rotary Revelry). Congratulations and thank you to all! |
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A Lasting Commitment to RotaryWe had the pleasure to salute and recognize two long-time Rotarians who have made significant contributions to the Club over the years. Past President Sal Nolfo celebrated an impressive 30 years as a member of San Juan Rotary while Past President Dr. Rafael Aponte celebrated 57 years of membership. Congratulations and thank you to both these fine and loyal Rotarians! |
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Keith Olson reaches Paul Harris +4As part of our recent lunch meeting, Rotarian Keith Olson received his Paul Harris + 4 Award. Congrats Keith! |
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Ken McGrath a Rotarian more than 3 decadesDuring our recent meeting, President Juanita congratulated Treasurer Ken McGrath who celebrated 31 years as a member of San Juan Rotary. |
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Jolly Good Paul Harris FellowsDuring last week's luncheon, Rotarian John Regis received his Paul Harris + 4 Award , while Rotarian Hector Gaitan received his Paul Harris +2 Award. |
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Chili-Sancocho Cook Off a Delicious Event
Our Chili Sancocho Cook Off fundraiser, held this past Sunday at the YWCA in Miramar, was well attended by SJ Rotarians, District Rotarians and the public. Winners in the Chili Category were: 1st Place- Commonwealth Parkville School Interact Club; 2nd Place - Caribbean Barbeque Association; 3rd Place - WOSO/Sherman Wildman. In the Sancocho Category: 1st Place - the Rio Piedras Rotary Club; 2nd Place- Denery; 3rd Place- Caribbean Barbeque Association. Other teams with great entries included: Famous Dave's Restaurant, Troy Fields, Scotiabank, Rotaract Club of IAU Metro Campus, and Jorge Gonzalez. Prizes were: $100 for 1st Place; $75 for 2nd Place; $50 for 3rd Place. Kudos go to the Cook-Off Committee headed by Club VP, Raymond Erb. Visit our Facebook page to see all the photos of the event! |
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Access - Knowledge- ValueIt is all available from the Sales and Marketing Executives Association in Puerto Rico! Come see for yourself. Our luncheonspeaker, María Elena Lampaya is the Executive Director of the Sales & Marketing Executives Association of Puerto Rico, a non-profit organization that has a 62 year history promoting the professional development of its members. She has has more than 20 years of experience in the non-profit sector working in the areas of communications, marketing, community impact and business administration. Since 2010, her goal has been to move the Association forward, and grow its membership through high quality workshops, networking opportunities, prestigious awards and in depth studies targeted to professionals in areas of sales, marketing and communication. As a result of her efforts, the SME expanded its membership categories which now include regular members, professional associates, educators and student chapters. At the moment the SME has more than 640 members and participation keeps growing.
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Get To Know our President - Juanita MorrisShe's up in front of us each week at the podium. Her face is familiar! But do you really know Juanita? Fellow San Juan Rotarian, Angela Schlump interviewed Juanita several times over the last few months and wrote this biography for us. |
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Classification Talks October 22, 2013Last Tuesday, Luís Ramírez and Ray Erbe gave their classification talks. Ray has been in Puerto Rico for 20 years, and started his company, Easy Checks in 2006. He has two college aged sons, and wife Elizabeth works with him in his business. Luis is a lifelong resident of Puerto Rico, and is an accountant. He currently works for PR Soft. He has a 7 year old son, and his wife is a mortgage banker at Scotia Bank. Louis Petit, the chair of our club's Classification Committee gave us a brief overview of the classification system and how it works to create a inclusive club, of diverse members!
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Five Local Businesswomen Honored as part of Vocational Service MonthOn Tuesday, October 15th, five local businesswomen were honored as part of Rotary's Vocational Service month. Recognized for their high ethical standards in their businesses were Bettye Baldwin, Jennifer Bates, Kimberly Casiano, Elizabeth Parker and Myrna Rivera. The complete bios of the honorees can be seen by clicking "More" below.
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And Another New Member Welcome!The Club also welcomed a second new Rotarian during last week's induction ceremony. Jose E. Valentin (Medical Services: Consultant) Vice President, Salinas Medical Center. Jose was also sponsored by Past President Marcos A. Vidal. Let's extend him a warm Rotary welcome |
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Can Culture Boost Investment in Puerto Rico?Our speaker on Tuesday, September 10th will be Maximiano Valdez, Artistic Director for the Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra. He will focus on what culture can do for a city (and, in our case, an island), focusing on music in particular, and he will make the case to us, as Rotarians, as to why we need to support culture. Why? Because culture is a big part of our island. It could be a selling point to the rest of the world and help put us "on the map". Cities that thrive and are talked about are those that are not only financially solvent, but who also have a rich and active heritage - which San Juan does. But is it ever used as a promotional feature? The Tourism Company only uses our beaches to promote Puerto Rico as a tourist destination. Ours is the only island where, in 24 hours, you can go from a beach...to zip lining in one of the world's only tropical rain forests...to a classical concert/opera or festival from a 55 year old orchestra...to the theater...to a 5 star dinner. Maestro Valdes is also pushing hard for the Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra to participate in recordings and tours. Our culture helps to form the worldwide opinion of our island...not just our beaches! A surviving, thriving culture will help to sell this island to the rest of the world for investment!
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President's Installation 2013
On July 9th, 2013, the Rotary Club of San Juan installed Juanita Morris as president.
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Computers Installed at Ramon Antonini Boys & Girls Club
San Juan Rotarians lent a hand to install a dozen new computers at the Boys & Girls Club at the Ramon Antonini community housing project. The new computers were part of a Rotary Matching Grant effort spearheaded by the Rotary Club of San Juan. Shown in the photo is new San Juan Rotarian Gerry Cumpiano who took the time out of his day to volunteer to set up the new equipment that youngsters will now have the benefit of enjoying. Special thanks to all who pitched in to make this happen!
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SJR Shines with 13 Awards at District ConferenceSan Juan Rotarians, the Club itself and its affiliate projects took home 13 top honors at last week's District 7000 annual conference. Among the awards surround SJR were the Club Excellence Award and Most Funds Contributed honor. Other recognitions related to SJR were: Special Assistance Award to Ron Chevako; District Rotaract Director to Juanita Morris; District Rotaract Representative to Alejandro Edenhoffer; Arbol Familiar to Myraida Anderson; Exceptional Club to both Commonwealth Interact and InterMetro Rotaract; International Service Help for Haiti Carlos Matos; Blue & Gold Gala to Marcos Vidal; Culebra Community Library to Dottie Hill; and Humanitarian Flights to Haiti to both Dany Epps and Ramon Torres. Congratulations to all those who were recognized for their efforts!
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SF Rotarians Donate $1,000 for Rotary Anns CharityDorado Rotarian and Coordinator of District 7000 Rotary Anns received a $1000 donation from San Juan Rotarians that will be used to purchase an auditory testing machine for the Pediatric Hospital in Centro Medico. PP Enrique Sigas and his wife and Rotary Ann Mildred Sigas thanked members for their generous donations. |
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SJR Tennis Tourney a Smashing Success
The San Juan Rotary Club's
annual tennis tourney was, as always, an evening of fun, frolic and darn good
tennis. This year Rotarian Jennifer Bates took home the Pasarell Trophy, with
runner-up Julian Rodriguez-Sacristan getting a good pat on the back from fellow
Rotarians and friends who joined in the action. Congratulations to Jennifer and
all the good sports who came out for the exercise and fellowship. Special
thanks go out to Tennis Committee Co-Chairs Chuck Hitt and Bob Schneider who
make it happen every year!
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UNA-USA Thanks SJR for its Support
United Nations Program
Jorge Gonzalez, President of the Board of UNA-USA PR thanked the Club for its
$1000 contribution the program that brings educational activities to schools
with the theme, "Think Globally, Act Locally". Jorge also thanked the
District for its $1000 donation and the Harvey Foundation who contributed
$2,200 to the organization founded in 1945.
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El Capitolio lit to recognize Rotary's Polio Plus
Hundreds of Rotarians joined members of the House of Representatives and
other VIPs for a historic illumination of the Capitol building to
recognize Rotary International's worldwide effort of eradicating Polio.
The contingent of supporters included a group from the San Juan Rotary
Club, who witnessed the significant event that has brought worldwide
attention to Rotary and its mission. Congratulations to DG Johnny
Richardson and his team who did a magnificent job in making Puerto Rico a
shining example of the power of Rotary and getting a tremendous amount
of media exposure that highlights Rotary's efforts both locally and
abroad. El Capitolio was among hundreds of iconic sites worldwide that
were illuminated simultaneously. To see a video clip of the event, visit
the District website www.distritorotario7000.org
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Rotary Revelry at Varita Promotes Fellowship
San Juan Rotarians met, mingled and indulged at the latest creative venue of renowned chef Wilo Benet in the Conrad Condado Plaza. Fellowship, food and fun flowed as did intriguing conversation as Rotarians and friends enjoyed a night on the town.San Juan Rotarians met, mingled and indulged at the latest creative venue of renowned chef Wilo Benet in the Conrad Condado Plaza. Fellowship, food and fun flowed as did intriguing conversation as Rotarians and friends enjoyed a night on the town.
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New Board Welcomed by District GovernorDistrict Governor Jose Rivero was on hand to welcome the incoming Board of Directors as they were sworn in. Congratulations and a big hearty thank you to all those Board Members and Directors who have selflessly volunteered to serve. |
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Rotary at Work both Here and Abroad
Visiting Rotarian, Mary Toews, of the RC of Everett WA, was part of an eight-person team of teachers and students led by Rotarian Rich Anderson who participated in a 110 wheelchair delivery program. Supported by funds raised by the Everett RC, the Canadian Wheelchair Foundation and the Rotary Clubs of Turabo, Isla Verde, Manati, Mayagues, Moca, Monacillos and Santurce, the project deliverd the wheelchairs in Yabucoa, U of Sagrado Corazon and Maricao. The Everett and Turabo Clubs are implementing a $20,800 matching grant in the Indieras Community of Maricao to develop three small social enterprises. (See photo)
The San Juan Rotary Club also concluded its Sabores de la Casa Project by returning the remaining $107 of the $14,721 grant to the Rotary Foundation. San Juan Rotary’s third Matenwa, Haiti Matching Grant was approved and work is expected to commence soon. Finally, Rotarians Alberto Estrella and Kenneth Suria are collaborating with Santurce Rotary in the delivery of a 40 ft. container full of medical equipment and supplies for Siervas de Maria, Casa de Salud in Viejo San Juan. These are examples of the magic in Rotary! |
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SJR Recognized at District 7000 AssemblyThe last meeting of District 7000 for the 2011-12 Rotary year was held on Saturday, June 16 when awards were given by DG Paul Roman for outstanding Rotary service. San Juan Rotary was recognized for its work with Rotaract and Interact Clubs, its significant increase in membership, and for obtaining several matching grants with the Rotary Foundation along with Rotary Clubs in California and Tortola. Of the $55,000 in total grants, San Juan Rotary contributed $7,000. |
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Rotary Week Raises over $28K
President Marcos recently announced that $28,000 net has been raised for the Club as a result of the Rotary Week activity at Plaza Las Americas last month. Congratulations to President Marcos and all the Rotarians who helped make this fundraiser and public relations event a tremendous success!
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Rotarians witness new citizen induction ceremony
During out last luncheon meeting, U.S. Citizenship Director, Roberto Cintron, introduced and offered the citizenship oath to 19 new US citizens from 15 countries. Rotarians also looked on while President Obama welcomed them via a video presentation.
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SJR Helps Make Tortola Playground a Reality
During one of recent meetings, International Service Chairman, Carlos Matos,showed a visual presentation of the completed playground for the Enis Adams Primary School in Roadtown, Tortola. Our Club contributed $4,000 to this Rotary International Matching Grant Project by selling raffle tickets for a contest with prizes that were donated by several hotels, cruises and other recreational businesses and put together by the Rotary Club of Roadtown.
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Rotary Week at Plaza Opening Ceremony an Impressive EventThe inauguration ceremony of Rotary Week at Plaza was everything President Marcos and the Rotary Week Committee hoped for—and more. The opening of the weeklong event that serves as both a fundraiser for the Club and excellent exposure for Rotary will clearly be remembered as a success judging by the fanfare of its ribbon-cutting day. A host of dignitaries from Secretary of State Kenneth McClintock to Senator Lucy Arce and General Hector Sorrentini came out to take the stage along with Rotary and military leader in support of the event dedicated to Puerto Rico Veterans of war. The Army Band played and the crowd beamed as San Juan Rotary kicked off what is expected to be an annual community tradition. More than 15 local businesses have rallied behind Rotary’s mission as sponsors to make this a worthwhile fundraiser. We ask that all Rotarians visit the exhibit this week to show gratitude to those supporting sponsors. Congratulations President Marcos, Committee Chair PP Bucky Tervo, and all those Rotarians who worked tirelessly to make this event a success!A photo album from the opening ceremony will be available on our web page beginning monday 4/30-be sure to take a look... |
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Casa Providencia thanks SJR for Donation of AppliancesA letter received for our recent support of Casa la Providencia....... On behalf of Casa La Providencia, I would like to thank you for your generous donation of the commercial refrigerator, oven and mixer for our program. With your support we will be able to offer women with drug an alcohol addiction problems an opportunity to learn job skills that will help them to face life after rehabilitation. Again, thank you very much for your support of "Sabores de la Casa" and for your commitment to our mission. The women of Casa la Providencia feel they are not alone and that God is with them through your support and generosity. Be assured of our prayers, Respectfully, Sister Maria Socorro Sandoval |
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DG Roman recognizes SJR on behalf of RI
At a recent luncheon meeting, District Governor Paul Roman presented our Club with two recognitions on behalf of the Rotary Foundation. First a banner of appreciation for our contributions to the Foundation in 2010-11 and second, a banner for our donations to PolioPlus in response to the challange made by Bill and Melinda Gates.
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SJR makes possible Matching Grant to benefit Boys & Girls Club
Rotarian Jose Irizarry, who is also a member of the Board of Directors of
the Boys & Girls Club, received a check for $15,190 from President Marcos
and International Service Director Carlos Matos. These funds were raised through
a Matching Grant with Rotary Clubs in Los Angeles, CA and The Rotary
Foundation. As a result of this Rotary joint
effort, the Boys & Girls Clubs in the Llorens Torres and Ramon Antonini public
housing projects will receive 24 spanking
new computers. Rotary is making a difference in our community!
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Casa Providencia Receives New Cooking Equipment through Matching Grant
As part of our matching
grants project with District 5280, a commercial refrigerator, a commercial
oven, and a commercial mixer were delivered for the Sabores de la Casa cooking project
at Casa Providencia in old San Juan, a program for troubled women. The mixer
weighed 400 pounds! After removing a
door, the equipment fit in the building and now we are awaiting the delivery of
the forms, baking pans, and other miscellaneous items. Soon the disadvantaged women
of Casa Providencia will be baking away!
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SJR Thanksgiving Event a Smash as Usual
SAN JUAN ROTARY can chalk up another successful Annual Thanksgiving celebration with great press coverage, dedicated Rotary and community volunteers, super entertainment including former Rotarian Juan Carlos Garcia, happy children and seniors, and of course great food.
Critical to the success of this yearly holiday party is the assistance of the volunteers and this year we set a new record-- under the leadership of Jose Irras--
of 17.5 minutes to serve more than 625 meals to the attendees. We also enjoyed the company of the Rotary District Governor as well as the Acting Governor of Puerto Rico. Kudos to
the Marriott and all of the people who donated money, helium gas
for the balloons, ice cream, soda and candy, and the Walmart donation to buy gifts. As always, a special thanks goes out to Linde de Puerto Rico, Sterling Merchandise, IRI de Puerto Rico, U.S. Coast Guard, Walmart, UPR Airforce ROTC, Commonwealth School, Interamerican U. Rotaract, and the Interact clubs and especially to the San Juan Rotarians who so generously gave their financial support. And let us not forget the Boys and Girls Club of Puerto Rico and our fearless organizer, Sol Bravman!
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SJR Facilitates Turkey Donations to Llorens Schools
Thanks to a $2000 contribution
from the Fundacion Darjo and Costco, The Rotary Club of San Juan was able to
continue the tradition of donating the turkeys for the Luis Llorens Torres
neighborhood schools annual Thanksgiving Turkey Races. Our Club was also able
to donate some of the 140 birds to Hermanas Misioneras
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Regional RF Coordinator pays visit to SJR
Rotarian D. Brent Williams, Regional Rotary Foundation Coordinator for Zone 34 encompassing 14 Caribbean countries and two states, Governor of District 6970 in 2006-07 and member of the Gainesville, Florida Rotary Club, thanked the club for its continued support of The Rotary Foundation. Rotarian Brent was
here for the Rotary Foundation Seminar held last Sunday in Manati.
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SJR Harnesses the Power of Matching Grants to Make a Difference
The power of RI matching grants is about to make a
difference right here in our community. Here is a summary of the San
Juan Rotary matching grants
, which will be matched by Rotary International, in
partnership with Rotary Clubs in Tortola, Manhattan Beach, Lennos,
Peninsula, South Bay Sunrise, Lynwood, and Playa Venice:
$4000 Playground equipment for a public elementary school that has been adopted by the Roadtown, Tortola Rotary Club $1579 for Casa de Providencia Home in Old San Juan, for equipment to train women in marketable cooking skills $1600 to Ramos Antonini Boys & Girls Club for computers for the youth Clubhouse. |
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SJR Welcomes Four New Members
Last Tuesday, the Rotary Club of San Juan
proudly inducted four new members. We encourage you to welcome the
following new members into our Rotary family:
Miguel Principe (Location Services: Global) General Manager of M2M Global Location Services, Sponsored by Marcos Vidal. Jorge A. Socca (Internet Service: Technology Governance) President of AXYSNET Corp. Sponsored by Marcos Vidal. Kenneth C. Suria (Law: Corporate) Partner with William Estrella Law Offices. Sponsored by Alberto Estrella. Denis Vaz (Banking: Corporate & Commercial) Chief Administrative Officer of Scotiabank de Puerto Rico. He was sponsored by Claudio Reck. |
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SJ Rotarians appointed by RI
Several San Juan Rotarians have been appointed by Rotary International
to serve in prominent positions for the global organization's
leadership.
It is with great pride that we report that our own San Juan Rotarian and District Governor Johnny Richardson has been named District Chair for the Rotary Foundation for a 3-year term, as well as the Assistant Rotary Coordinator for District 7000, Zone 34. His new duties will move him to a leadership role on an International level. Several other San Juan Rotarians have been appointed to Rotary Foundation Subcommittees including: Pres. William "Bucky" Tervo - RF Permanent Fund Subcommittee Carlos Matos- Grants Committee Juan Saavedra - Polio Plus Subcommittee Congratulations to all our fellow Rotarians who have been recognized for their leadership qualities and have been entrusted by RI to take Rotary International into the future! |
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Rotarian of the Year: Juanita Morris
It actually came as no surprise. The recipient of the coveted Rotarian of
the Year award 12010-2011 is Board Secretary and Incoming Vice President, Juanita
Morris—a well deserved recognition! Juanita went above and beyond her duties as
a member of the Board as she assisted President Bucky, our Club, and the District in many endeavors and
projects this Rotary year. She also played a vital role in mentoring our youth
and serving as a liaison to our Interact and Rotaract students. Congratulations Juanita!
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Capping of a Great Rotary Year....
President Bucky gave an overview of his Rotary year accompanied by a photo slide show. He then presented recognition awards to those who made outstanding "Service Above Self" contributions in the past year as follows:
Sol Bravman - Thanksgiving Event at the Marriott María Elena Pérez - English Tutoring & Dictionary Distribution Carmen Hammel - English Tutoring & Attendance Chair José Irizarry - Health Fair Didi Connelly - Door Prize Chair Héctor Gaitán - Sergeant-at-Arms Alejandro Edenhofer - Inter Metro Rotaract Club Louis Petit - Classification Chair John Ferrandino - Birthday Committee Chair Dr. Norman Maldonado - Program/Speaker Chair Dr. Rafael Aponte - Chaplain Committee Chair Dottie Hill - Libraries for Literacy Commonwealth Interact Club Marcos A. Vidál - President Elect Claudio Reck - Vice President & Club Service Director Kenneth McGrath - Treasurer Teresita Bagué - Vocational Service Director Carlos Matos - International Service Director & Flights to Haiti Enrique Sigas, Esq. - Immediate Past President |
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SJR Chosen for RI Pilot Program
San Juan Rotary was selected by Rotary International to be part of a
pilot project that includes only 200 Clubs worldwide, in which corporate
memberships are offered. This test program is intended to bring the
International organization into the future by broadening the membership
restrictions and allowing corporations to designate four members of
their management personnel to serve as Rotarians and having the
flexibility to designate new executives if the person originally chosen
is transferred or is no longer with the company. This is a great
opportunity for Club's like ours to increase membership by drawing in
esteemed corporations in our region.
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Rotaract recognizes both outstanding Rotaractors and Rotarians
During a recent SJR luncheon,Inter Metro Rotaract President,
Alejandro Edenhofer, presented awards to outstanding Rotaracters from
InterAmerican University. Recipients included Tatiana Garcia, Mario
Avendaro and Joanne Torres. Also present for the ceremony was their
faculty advisor, Professor Armand Pique. Alejandro then gave awards to
President Bucky, on behalf of San Juan Rotary and to DG John Richardson with
special recognition to PP Enrique Sigas, who was instrumental in founding the
IAU Rotaract Club and Juanita Morris, SJR's liason to the Club's Rotaract and
Interact Clubs.
The Inter Metro Rotaract Club won InterAmerican University's 1st Prize for Social Work. In addition, Rotary International honored the Rotaract Club with a Presidential Citation. San Juan Rotary is very proud of its Rotaract Club of university students. |
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Rotarians Converge on Conservatory of Music
More than 50 Rotarians and guests took part in the San Juan Rotary field trip to the recently refurbished Conservatory of Music in San Juan. Margo Sila, Public Relations Director of the Conservatory led an informative and intriguing tour of the landmark location that was built by the Spaniards in 1880. It first served as an all-girls school, and then in 1898 as an orphanage for girls, before it was turned into a rehabilitation center some 30 years later. In 1998 it became the Conservatory of Music, where 500 students study at university level to acquire a Bachelor's of Music surrounded in a repertoire that includes classical, jazz, Caribbean and pop music. The school attracts students primarily from Latin America. Its annual budget of $8 million is funded by legislative grants (65%) and donors. Its cost is $75 per credit due to its one-to-one student ratio for advanced instrument instruction is involved.
After the tour, the group moved to the neighboring YWCA where Club Secretary Juanita Morris (President of the YWCA), and enjoyed a delicious box lunch catered by Subway store owner, SJ Rotary Past President Luis Marti.
Special thanks fot Carmen Hammel who made all the arrangements for the memorable and enjoyable field trip. |
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Mission Accomplished: Hand Sanitizer Flown to HaitiThe following is a message from District Governor Johnny Richardson: San Juan Rotarian Carlos Matos and fellow pilots Danny Epps and Ramon Torres delivered approximately 1,400 pounds of antibacterial hand sanitizer to Port-au-Prince, Haiti, following an appeal from 7020 DG Diana White in response to the Cholera outbreak. military who provided aid in Haiti's time of need. Shown in the photo are pilot and San Juan Rotarian Carlos Matos with his flight companion Vice President Claudio Reck as they head for Haiti to drop off a shipment of the hand sanitizer. |
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Thanksgiving Celebration 2010 a SuccessThe 22nd annual Thanksgiving Celebration for children, seniors and disabled adults was a huge success—once again! Hundreds of children from Boys & Girls Clubs around the Island, as well as adults from the Instituto Psicopedigoco enjoyed a hearty traditional Thanksgiving feast, as well as entertainment by guitarist Juan Carlos and talented youth performers. Over 30 San Juan Rotarians came to lend a hand as did a contingent from the U.S. Coast Guard, Boys & Girls Club staff, Rotaractors from the InterMetro Club and Interactors from Commonwealth High School. Secretary of State Kenneth McClintock also made his annual appearance in support of the Club's yearly community service event. The Daily Sun front page featured a photo of the San Juan Marriott's chef presenting the first turkey carvings to youngsters from the San Lorenzo Boys & Girls Club. El Nuevo Dia dedicated a feature story to the event and recognized the fearless leader behind the event for more than two decades—our own Sol Bravman. Congratulations to all those whose contributions, both monetary and voluntary helped to bring this annual tradition to fruition, putting smiles on the faces of hundreds of happy attendees and giving them the opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable holiday meal! |
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Movers of the Matenwa Library project recognized
Rotarian Wells Hood of Skidaway Island, Savannah, Georgia Club paid a visit to San Juan Rotary to recognize all those whose efforts made it possible for the Matenwa Library in La Gonaive, Haiti to become a reality. It was six years since he first discussed with now DG Johnny Richardson the idea of building a community library on the impoverished island with no electricity or running water, but plenty of children anxious to learn. At the meeting he recognized the CPS Interact Club who took the initiative to raise the initial funds to kickstart and see the project through by presenting its current student leaders with a District 6920 and District 7000 Governors Award. Chris Low, Matenwa's co-director that was in attendance was also honored with a Paul Harris Fellow Award and the many movers and shakers of the project were thanked including both SJ and Skidaway Rotarians, DG Johnny, former director Angela Schlump and Ana Colomer, among others.
The Matenwa Library project's first phase was a complete success and a more recent effort that also included a Rotary matching grant has continued the expansion of the library that has given residents of the tiny island Internet access and therefore, access to a whole new view of the world. |
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District collects sanitizer bound for HaitiAs it drew to a close, the District-wide hand sanitizer drive to help combat the spread of Cholera in Haiti had successfully amassed over 1,000 pounds of the potentially life-saving product, thanks to the efforts of Rotarians, Rotaract and Interact Clubs throughout District 7000. DG Johnny Richardson and others are now working on getting the sanitizer shipped to the area where it is most needed. Thanks to all who supported this drive through donations! Rotary continues to make a difference in the world! |
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SJR Hosts 4th annual Health Fair
This past week our Club hosted its annual health fair for Rotarians and Marriott staff and their families, as well as the community. Participants got free flu shots, health screenings and valuable health and wellness info. Congratulations is in order for the event's organizer and SJR Director Jose Irizarry, as well as special thanks to all those who made it happen, including all the San Juan Rotarians who contributed their time and effort, as well as co-sponsors the San Juan Marriott, San Juan Office of Veterans Affairs, the Municipality of San Juan, and the PR Dept. of Health. Salud!!
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Inter Metro Rotaract Publishes Promo on YouTubeAlejandro Edenhofer, President of The Rotaract Club of Inter-Metro and son of SJ Rotarian Norma Krasinksi, has posted the group's promotional video on You Tube. Click on the link below (or copy and paste it into your browser) to see the video, and get an idea of what the fine young men and women of our Rotaract Clubs are capable of. We congratulate Alejandro and the Rotaract Club, and look forward to working with them this year. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jeDlqEv7MWk |
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Blue & Gold Gala welcomes RI President to PRA fabulous time was had by the more than 250 Rotarians, guests and friends who attended the July 2nd Blue & Gold Gala, enjoying fine food,wine and music at what is hoped will be the first of an annual activity. It was a honor for our island to welcome 2010-11 Rotary International President Ray Klinginsmith and his wife, Judie. Puerto Rico was the first stop for the new president after the RI Conference in Montreal. San Juan Rotary was proud to serve as the host club for this most welcome visitor. Congratulations to the Gala Committee and especially to Gala Chairman Marcos Vidal for his non-stop efforts towards realizing the elegant event.
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RI President pins local Paul Harris Fellows
Several San Juan Rotarians had the honor of being pinned by the new RI President Klinginsmith at the recent gala as they received their multiple Paul Harris Fellows (PHF). Congratulations to the following San Juan Rotarians: |
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Rosie Copeland Golf Tourney a Hole-in-One
Golfing Rotarians and their guests had a good ol' time at the Rosie Copeland Golf Tournament hosted at the beautiful Bahia Beach Resort & Golf Club on June 4. Taking home the trophy was the team of San Juan Rotarian Roberto Valentin and his partner Jeronimo Esteves. The longest drive also went to Roberto and Closest to the Pin honors went to Club Services Director and Golf Committee Chairman Claudio Reck. Congratulations to all the golfers and to the Golf Committee for putting together a fun fellowship event. |
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SJR Earns Presidential Award from District
Zone 1 Assistant to the District Governor Juan Torruellas presented the respected Presidential Award for Club Excellence to President Enrique and also Presidential Awards for our Interact Clubs at Commonwealth School and Antilles High School, as well as the InterAmerican University Rotaract Club. CPS Headmaster and San Juan Rotarian Richard Marracino was also on hand to accept the recognitions on behalf of the hardworking students. |
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Over $62,388 Heading to Haiti thanks to Rotary
Rotary does make a difference. The proof is in the pudding as second installment of the Rotary matching grant makes its way to the Matenwa Learning Center to continue the the important literacy project on the tiny impoverished island of the coast of Haiti. The more than $62,388 will fund a project that will allow the Matenwa Library to begin publishing and distributing books in the native Creole language to improve literacy on the Island. This is a fine example of how a collaboration by Rotary International, SJR, its Commonwealth Interact Club, the Skidaway and Port au Prince Club's can come together to make big things happen in a small place. Congratulations to all!
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SJR Enjoys an Evening in the CavaMore than 30 San Juan Rotarians and their guests enjoyed an evening of fellowship, fun and free-flowing wines at a wine tasting hosted by Cava Serralles. The congenial crowd enjoyed delicious appetizers courtesy of East Sushi and were treated to a memorable event in the lovely cava where they were able to take advantage of generous discounts on the fine wines they sampled throughout the evening. Three Cheers for Club Service Director Claudio Reck for putting it together, as well as East Sushi for the delectable bites and of course Cava Serralles for their wine and hospitality. |
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Our CPS Interact Heart for Haiti raises $18,000
The Commonwealth-Parkville Interact Club's annual Heart for Haiti fundraiser this month raised a whopping $18,000 to benefit our neighboring country in crisis. The day-long festival with entertainment, presentations and fun for the whole family has been a success for the last several years in its quest to raise much-needed funds for the Matenwa Learning Center, but this year, the event was a blockbuster, nearly doubling last year's tally. These youngsters are truly an inspiration and their Rotary spirit and determination is admirable. All the proceeds will benefit those in need in Haiti!
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SJR presents check for $12,546.11 for HaitiDuring the Club's Valentine luncheon, President Enrique Sigas proudly presented a check for $12,546.11 to District 7000 Governor Johnny Nieves for our Club's contribution to the District-wide fund raiser to benefit Haitian earthquake victims. The DG expressed his sincere gratitude and pride for the generous contribution and also congratulated the effort by PP Bert Foti and Rotarian contributors that made it possible to send a $5,000-plus boatload of drinking water that was sent to our neighbors in crisis. Congratulations to all the Rotarians and Friends of Rotarians who made this donation possible. But it's not over yet! More contributions are on their way to Haiti thanks to the efforts of our CPS Interact Club and a major donation by the Paddle for Haiti event to benefit Haiti......stay tuned for details.......and be proud to be a Rotarian! |
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Paddle for Haiti Raises Over $10,000!The paddle for Haiti activity held last Saturday sponsored by Puerto Rico Paddleboard Tours and Rentals raised over $10,000 for the Hearts For Haiti Project and the Rotary Haiti Relief Fund! An expected turnout of 20 paddleboarders swelled to almost 90, each paying $50 to paddle from Piñones to Ocean Park on a beautiful sunny day. A cookout and raffle was then held at the Park Boulevard Condominium, which attracted several hundred people who bought drinks, hamburgers, hot dogs, sausages, steaks, ribs, and other BBQ goodies donated by several sponsors. The raffle also was a big success with more than 50 donated items up for grabs. Everyone had a great time and the final total raised was far more than anyone imagined! The funds raised will be split between the two Haiti projects our club is involved in. This is an example of the power and image of Rotary. According to Tanya Esparza, the co-founder of the event (along with Art Wible), Rotary gave the event respectability and the participants felt confident that their donations would be handled in the right way, encouraging even more generosity. Thanks to Tanya and Art, and all the volunteers who participated. We can't wait for the Second Annual Paddle for Haiti! |
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SJR Awards Scholarships to Ramon Power Grads
A total of ten recent grads from the Ramon Power High School received the first half of their $500 scholarship awarded by our Club as an incentive for higher learning. The scholarship project funded by our Character Development Fund, began last year as a move to reward deserving students for their diligent efforts to get themselves into college and maintain at least a 3.0 grade point average. On hand representing our Club to disseminate the checks were Community Service Director Angela Schlump and Vocational Service Director Teresita Bague.
Congrats to all the Grads! |