Community
* COMMUNITY EVENTS
Stories
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Camp Neidig JigIt will soon be time to send our campers of to leadership camp. It is such a great experience and adults visit often and say have you guys sent me to Rotary camp. Here is a little song written by one of the tribes. It is so cute, it is hilarious, you'll enjoy it. (Click on the picture, make sure you click the speaker on the top when it comes up, so volume is on) Listen closely to the lyrics 'But WAIT.......Did you say...Camp Neidig for freeeeeee  |
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LORI STRANGE, JILL WINTHER- KITTY COTTAGE
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BRAY RAUHAUSER- Historical Society of Montgomery County Last week, BRAY RAUHAUSER, Executive Director of the Historical Society of Montgomery County visited or club and told us of the working of the society and gave a few interesting examples of what he has experienced during his work there. The Society, which was formed in 1881, is dedicated to interact with the public and make available to them, and interpret their meaning, documents concerning the history of Montgomery County. They keep and preserve many types of documents and artifacts such as wills, deeds, newspapers, and many other items of interest. Bray told us of the many fascinating special events they hold, centering on varied aspects of county history. (two examples are shown below). He related an article that he uncovered concerning a big prize fight held in Whitepain in 1864 featuring the famous Patsy Marley, in a match against all comers. (he fought 70 rounds that day) The fight drew world wide attention doe to the size of the purse, and people came from miles around to witness the event, estimated 3000 spectators. Bray invite us to join the historical Society, which has a $35 yearly cost of gives admission to the several special lectures they have annually. Visit their site at https://hsmcpa.org  ThankYou, Bray |
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AUCTION INVITE
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Rotary Fellowship Groups
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Happy Birthday Jim WilliamsHappy Birthday Jim Williams  |
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Classication of Rachael Copen New member Rachael Copen gave her classification talk last week. Originally from Virginia, she moved to the Philadelphia area in 2007 and moved to East Norriton in 2014. She hold a B and Masters degee on Clinical Psychology. Rachel is a Certified Rehabilitation Practitioner since 2011. She was licensed as a Professional Counselor in 2012. She works from home as Quality Clinical reviewer for the board at Magellan. She works with people in the Wrap-Around program for people who have experienced trauma. Rachel is a marathon runner, she crochets, and she is certified to instruct in Yoga. |
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Recycle, Read Repeat - Kate Jaworski Our speaker this week was Kate Jaworski of Read, Recycle, Repeat. Kate along with co-founder Angela Smith started a local book store and online book of the Month Subscription service. RR&R originally started in Kate Basement but soon grew to their present book store at 208 Cherry Street, Norristown. Their book sources are Books from private library sales, private donations and they also partner with the Montgomery County Library. All books are from local sources. They also specialize in teen books. They run a Book of the Month subscription service where they ask the reader to profile their interests and they hand pick selections for the customer. Both Kate and Angela were former educators. for 15 years. Their foci are Community, Literacy and Environmental Stability. All of the furniture and bookshelves in their store is recycled second hand furniture. Even the books they send out use no bubblewrap or shipping peanuts. Instead they bater with Fabscrap of Phil for recycle material. Their wrapping is often discarded fashion ware which come from from prototype clothing so as to not fill the landfill with material. They plan and schedule free local literacy workshops and writing workshops. As well as other cultural topics like art and music. They also operate a teen writing club. You can learn more at www.recyclereadrepeat.com |
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NEW MEMBERS CLASSIFICATION TALKSLast Thursday, Membership Chair MARK CALL presented three new club members who delivered their Classification Talks. The talks are designed to allow each new member the chance to introduce themselves to the club by sharing their history and telling us how they became interested in ROTARY.  CLIF HIRST - He has lived in the area for 30 years and has worked the last 10 years at the Norristown Community Library, where he was introduced to Rotary by Karen. Cliff had previously run his own business in garden design after graduation from Temple with a degree in Sociology. He became involved with the Literacy Council of Norristown and is now Chairman of the Board. Cliff loves bird watching and has observed at least 187 species in Montgomery County. He say "The best thing you can do for the Library, is use it"  JEANNE COVE - Also has worked at the Norristown Library for the last 29 years after working at other Montco libraries. Jeanne grew up in the DC area where she became failure with ROTARY through family connections. Her main point of focus is in increasing access to the library for those traditionally underserved in the community or do not have good access to the facility. Her background in social work and selling has given her a solid footing in finding ways to connect with the community and to encourage their participation.  MONICA D´ANTONIO - She comes to us from Cherry Hill N.J. and has a Masters degree in English from Temple. She has dedicated her life to advancing fair funding for Pennsylvania school districts. She asserts that the current system is unconstitutional and shortchanges many of the State's districts, stating the Norristown Area School District has been receiving $18 million less that it should under a more equitable system. Her personal experience of relocating to another area just to get a better education, and the added cost incurred in doing that, is something that not many can afford, thus the need for changes in funding. She is a self-described Education Advocate and has led efforts in Harrisburg to promote Fair Funding for schools. Monica has been on NASD Board, the Literacy Council, the local NAACP, and has always centered her activities around education. Thanks and welcome to these three newest members.
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VALLEY FORGE CHORALE See Dave Beach for more details |
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PATRICK and ELI - Martha's Choice Marketplace PATRICK WALSH, ELI WENGER - MARTHA'S CHOICE MARKETPLACE Last week PATRICK WALSH and ELI WENGER from Martha's Choice Marketplace, visited our club to give an update on the latest changes and improvements to the largest food pantry in Montgomery County. The organization served 4500 families in the last 12 months, and saw such a dramatic increase in families during the pandemic, that they changed from a store-like arrangement to a drive thru set up to betted accommodate the influx. Even with processing 2.5 million pounds of food last year, they still struggle to meet demand as they continue to see up to 140 new families each month. One of the ways they meet this demand is by growing a significant portion of their food on the community farm that they run on the old St. Gabe's property. The Marketplace and the farm are maintained by a group of 200 volunteers who regularly turn out to help. Their mission is to Build community through access to food, and the first rate organization they have created goes a long way to facilitate that goal. Thank you Patrick and Eli. See the insert below to find out how you can help.  |
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NAHS STUDENTS - 3-14-24
 DENISE ASHE-Club Student Affairs Chair, JEREMIAH McCRAY, EDWARD FISHER, VERONICA RITTER, DAVID E CALDWELL III, BRANDON ZUNIGA, MARY ONAMA- Club President The Club again welcomed deserving students from Norristown Area High School to receive recognition for their scholastic achievements. Music was highly represented in this group, with most participating in choir, marching band, jazz band, and concert band. All had their interests sparked by the teachers they met in high school, and expressed how much the musical experience has meant to them as it has become a passion to a few . They have participated in District Choir, written compositions for band, been elected president of the marching band, and been involved in community events. High school has also inspired participation in school government , with one setting a goal and succeeding in becoming class president. Their futures include education in music, music education, animal or environmental science, and education. Schools they are considering are West Chester, Villoniva, Penn State, Ive League schools, and Temple. We wish them all the best in their future endeavors.  BRANDON ZUNIGA  DAVID E CALDWELL III  VERONICA RITTER  EDWARD FISHER  JEREMIAH McCRAY |
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STATE SENATOR - AMANDA CAPPELLETTI
 STATE SENATOR AMANDA CAPPELLETTI The Rotary Club of Norristown was happy to welcome State Senator AMANDA CAPPELLETTI to its March 14 meeting. The Senator talked about her work in the state senate, her connection to the Norristown community, support for the Zoo, Hospitality Center, and many other areas critical to maintaining the Norristown area. In the Senate, she has supported legislation in Public Health with aid in home repairs, home safety improvements, making file alarms available, improving waste water treatment facilities, . She has also taken strong positions on preventing gum violence, rent controls, making sanitary products available for free in schools and other government facilities, and addressing the need for more maternal care including abortion. She has also introduce a new bill to stop "book banning". Senator Cappelletti spoke also of the many other areas of support that her office provides and encouraged use to contact her with any questions or concerns. Norristown Office 221 W Main Street Norristown, PA 19401 Call: (610) 768-4200 Her website https://pasenatorcappelletti.com  STATE SENATOR CAPELLETTI WITH CLUB PRESIDENT MARY ONAMA Thank you Senator Cappelletti for visiting with us. |
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Meet Our NEWEST MEMBERMonica D'Antonio (center) is inducted by David Shoemaker It is with great pleasure that we announce our newest Rotarian. Welcome Monica D'Antonio to the Rotary Club of Norristown. Monica is the Executive Director of the Norristown Area Education Foundation. She brings to Rotary her commitment to Rotary foci in education, reading and literacy. Pictured is Monica (center), her sponsor, Jeanne Cove (left), induction was conducted by David Shoemaker (right). Congratulations Monica we are excited to have you join us.   |
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NAHS students honored 3-14-24 NAHS STUDENTS HONORED JAN. 25 BY ROTARY CLUB OF NORRISTOWN DENISE ASHE Club Youth Services Chair, Brandon AMBAR TORRES RAMIREZ, EMILY PLUMMER, KATIE LE, DUSTIN ARMAS, CHASE EICHOLTZ, J EFF McMARIA-NAHS Counselor, MARY ONAMA- Club President
At our January 25th meeting, THE ROTARY CLUB OF NORRISTOWN, honored 5 students from the NORRISTOWN AREA HIGH SCHOOL. The students were recognized for their exemplarily achievements in the areas of scholastic excellence, participation in school activities and special interest groups, community volunteering, sports, and demonstrated leadership in leadership and helping others. They all are honor roll students and often are National Merit Scholars. They have participated in student government, math and robotics club, school board representation , STEM programs, English teaching of local kids just to list a few. Their sports include golf, soccer, track and field. They intend to continue their education in the fields of landscaping / environmental studies, civil engineering, manufacturing engineering, and the very popular- undecided. We wish them all great success in the future, and thank them for sharing their experiences with us.  DUSTIN ARMAS  CHASE EICHOLTZ  KATIE LE  EMILY PLUMMER  AMBAR TORRES RAMIREZ |
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5th THURSDAY MEETING - EL JEFE The Club gathered at the El Jefe restaurant in Norristown for our off-site fifth Thursday of the month meeting. The EL JEFE is a new restaurant in Norristown and features an exciting atmosphere of good food, drinks, arcade games, and ax throwing. A good time was had by all and we thank Sunanda for organized this event. To see more about El Jefe visit their site: El Jefe - Norristown, PAEl Jefe - Norristown, PAhttps://eljefebar.com  |
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FRANK RAUSCHER local wood carving artist FRANK RAUSCHER local artist Last Thursday, the Club had a special treat as local wood carver FRANK RAUSCHER, brought a few of his fantastic carvings, mostly of birds. Frank loves to create and has been doing so for about 50 years, with the last 20 years concentrating on carving birds, and has perfected his skills to a award winning status in the wood carving community. He demonstrated some of the equipment involved in carving and described a few of the techniques used in creating his beautiful works. He got into the hobby be seeing a YouTube video, and now has progressed to the point where he is making teaching videos for those wishing to get into carving. He love the teaching aspect of his hobby. In the past he would participate in 12 shows a year but is cutting back now, preferring the teaching part. Observe some of his creations below. Thank you, Frank for sharing your talents with us.  Frank with some of his creations      He created a display showing the steps in carving a bird  His favorite is still the first bird he carved |
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ELAINE SCHAEFER- Schuylkill River Greenways ELAINE SCHAEFER from Schuylkill River Greenways Last Thursday ELAINE SCHAEFER from Schuylkill River Greenways spoke to the club about the expansion and maintenance of the vast network of paths in our area. The non-profit organization that she heads, is based in Pottstown, and although her group has direct charge of the area from Redding to Fracksville, they provide coordination activities for the whole Schuylkill River pathway system that runs from Philadelphia up 120 miles to Carbon County. The path system is part of a designated Heritage Area, which is a designation given to areas that share common characteristics (the river) and have been essential to the areas history since our country's founding.  The Greenways' mission is to connect people to the river and trails and hopefully encourage them to become stewards of the area and support its development. Elaine outlined several of the projects currently being carried out in this region including a major $3.5 million, 6 mile extension at the top of the trail in Frackville that included moving an abandon bridge across the county for use in the project. She highlighted several areas that have recently been upgraded including one in Redding, and in Auburn, encouraging us to try them out. They sponsor several events throughout the season, featuring kayaking, biking, and hiking, their signature event being the Schuylkill River Sojourn, a 7-day kayak trip down the river. They have a capital fund campaign under way for $5 million to be used to set up an endowment fund for continual maintenance funding. For further information, check out their website at. schuylkillriver.org Thank you, Elaine   |
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Laurel House Event |
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New Green Fundraiser ATTENTION:We are changing our plans. We are planning to hold our plant sale at the end of the year instead. The presale from run from Nov 1 through Nov 15. Stay tuned for details as we look forward to some gorgeous holiday flora. |
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Spring FundraiserPancake / Silent Auction Fundraiser 2024
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JANET TREIMAN - RSVP Last week, the Club welcomed JANET TREIMAN from RSVP - an organization dedicated to helping volunteers find opportunities that fit their interests. Janet compared RSVP to MATCH.COM except with a more community service idea in mind. She is the Sr. Wellness and Volunteer Coordinator for the group, where she has been for 2 years, having previously served as a layer for a construction firm in Philadelphia for 14 years. RSVP has over 1200 volunteers that it works with, delivering over 32,000 hours a year of service to community residents in need. Their group works in Delaware, Montgomery, and Chester Counties, and also provides services to students and veterans in Philadelphia County. Janet related that around 30% of Americans do volunteer work, with 60% of those being women. The area of hunger attracts the most volunteers , followed by wellness.Their organization works to direct potential volunteers to places that are in need of assistance. Janet detailed the several programs that RSVP offers volunteers and uses to uprepare them for working the the many areas that they support.  For further information, or to direct others to this critical service, go to rsvpmc.org or call 610-834-1040 ex. 123 Thank you Janet for this informative talk. |
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NEIL MacNEIL- NEW JESERY PINE BARRENS , DNEIL MacNEIL I Author At our last meeting, Dec. 21, the Club was treated to a fun and interesting talk by NEIL MacNEIL on the New Jersey Pine Barrens. Neil has studied the Barrens for much of his life, and has written a book, "A Stillness in the Pines". He was born in N.J. and says the Barrens have always been his back yard. It is the largest expanse of open land in the East, accounting for 20% of New Jersey land. Much of it is water and it is home to over 800 species of flowers. Neil spoke of the history of the area from being a national leader in iron production, to becoming a glass manufacturing center. The Barrens were the source of "swamp gas", which is a natural phenomenon there. He told us about the Pinies who were the early settlers and iron workers, who now reside in the deep woods of the Pine Barrens, and spoke of the legend of the Jersey Devil, and also NJ's contribution to the bootlegging industry. He gave a short slideshow featuring many beautiful pictures from the Barrens. Neil has written two books, and he shared his latest work at our meeting. He is a spokesman for the Pinelands Protection Alliance, an organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the Pine Barrens. https://pinelandsalliance.org Thank you very much, Neil.   |
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Scholarship Thank you LetterYou're very welcome. It was our privilege to honor such deserving students and hopefully give them a head start in their educational endeavors.  |
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MICHELE KRISTOFKO - SUPER KIDS MICHELE KRISTOFKO from SUPER KIDS of MONTGOMERY COUNTY At our Nov. 16 meeting, our guest speaker was MICHELE KRISTOFKO from SUPER KIDS of MONTGOMERY COUNTY, who spoke on the activities the the organization offers to area children who have been abandoned, neglected, or abused. They are basically kids without parents and the center case workers handle over 100 cases at a time, and last year gave support to 500 local kids in need. SUPER KIDS strives to give these neglected kids the chance to succeed and gain self confidence, self-esteem, and self awareness which has resulted in significant decreases in reports of neglect, increases in school grades, and many kids living a happier life. SUPER KIDS works to bring services such as mentoring, tutoring, music, and sports involvement to the kids and is always in need of donations. They particularly need items like laptops and educational software, sports equipment, event tickets, musical instruments, art supplies, books, and financial donations. ROTARY CLUB OF NORRISTOWN has awarded them one of our District Grants this year. To learn more and donate, contact them at : www.superkidsofmontco.org. or call 610-930-6710 Thank- You, Michele for your talk. |
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NAHS STUDENTS HONOREDAt our November 16 meeting, the Club honored six students from Norristown Area High School. These students, selected by teachers and school staff, were selected on the basis of their academic achievements, their participation in school activities, and their involvement in community service. All plane to continue their education next year, pursuing degrees in: Automation Engineering, Robotics, Psychology, Music, Med School, Communications, and other areas in science. We congratulate each one and wish them continued success in their educational future.  Club President, MARY ONAMA welcomed the students to our meeting- (l to R) Mamadou Bah , Kayla Huynh, Izabella Gurreonero, Xiomara Smith, Jack Rosen. In the back is school counselor Jeff MacNamara, who introduced the students. 
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Dictionary Project Delivery This Week |
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PAT HART NORRISTOWN STATE HOSPITAL PAT HART - VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR NORRISTOWN STATE HOSPITAL Last week the Club welcomed as speaker, PAT HART who is the Volunteer Resources Coordinator for the Norristown State Hospital. Pat related how the hospital is still functioning with an average daily census of 350 individuals. There is constant turnover in the population with around 10 admissions / releases each week. The hospital serves those with mental struggles, in finding a sense of autonomy by advancing the development of the patients, as they strive to live their motto "Don't overlook anybody" Pat's volunteer department is tasked with monitoring the needs of the patients and supplying needed materials to them. Her team does fundraising, collections of clothes and other goods, presenting parties and other entertainment to them, generally taking care of their personal and social needs. They are always in need of donated supplies such as art and writing materials, and clothing. If you would like to contribute money or supplies to the volunteer group, call them at 610-313-1228 or contact our JUDY BUCKO who is president of the VIA Board of Directors. Thank You Pat for visiting us. |
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NEW MEMBERS- CLIFF HIRST AND JEANNE COVEThe Rotary Club of Norristown welcomed two new members at its Nov. 2 meeting, with David Shoemaker performing the induction. We are pleased to receive CLIFF HIRST and JEANNE COVE into our club.  New Members- CLIFF HIRST, JEANNE COVE, their sponsor KAREN DeANGELO, DAVID SHOEMAKER |
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CAROL FERGUSON - POLIO PLUS CAROL FERGUSON from the Pennsylvania Polio Survivors Network, returned to our club to bring us up to date on Rotary's commitment to the eradication of Polio around the world. She reminded us of the importance of continued support for assuring the availability of vaccines in the few remaining Polio hot spots and making sure that we remain vigilant here to keep it from returning here. There have been cases overseas and it has appeared here, entering the country with an immigrant. Carol is a survivor of Polio and spoke of the dangers of Post Polio Syndrome where Polio returns to those who survived the initial attack. This little know after-affect, can be disabling and needs the continued attention from Rotary to those affected by it. Polio remains a potential danger and needs the continued attention from the Rotary Foundation. Thank-you Carol for this informative talk. |
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NICK GEERS HONORED FOR 60 YEARS PERFECT ATTENDANCELast week the Club took time to honor NICK GEERS for the remarkable achievement of maintaining perfect attendance for 60 years. This accomplishment was noted by District Governor Diane Donaher during her annual visit. A brief history of Nick includes his joining the Club in 1963, serving as president 1981-82, assistant District Governor of Area 5, achieving Paul Harris Fellow status, along with his continual support for Club service and community projects. Nick, we all appreciate and celebrate everything that you have done for Rotary and our Club.  NICK GEERS celebrates 60 years perfect attendance  NICK and Governor DIANE DONAHER  NICK with Club President MARY ONAMA and District Governor DIANE DONAHER |
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DON BENN - PA CONSTABLE  DON BENN -- PENNSYLVANIA STATE CONSTABLE Last week, the club was treated to a discussion from DON BENN, the Pennsylvania Constable for our area. Don pointed out that not many people are aware of the role constables play in law enforcement activities. The constable function in Pa. was created in 1664 and became an official part of the state government in 1787. Ho stated that Montgomery County is unique in the state due to its extremely large number of governing bodies in the county, which adds to the difficulty in setting up constables. The position, although elected, is not funded directly by the government. Fees and service charges fund their activities, but many of their expenses are on them. The most important activity they participate in, is election night protection. It is their responsibility to protect voters and pole workers. These activities are covered by the Constable and the several deputies they appoint. Montco has only 35 constables. Other activities that constables cover were revised in a video Don presented. They include serving arrest warrants, warnings, eviction notices, and livestock control, among others. The source of their assignments is the district courts. We thank Don for his informative talk. |
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CAMP NEIDIG ATTENDEES 2023 |
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Garden Planting Sept 23, 2023 9amThere is a garden planting planned for Sept 23rd at 9am at the Padden Park Community Butterfly Garden. Come help us plant mums and clean up weeding. - Sign Up online in 'Upcoming Events'  See Mary |
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Our Club receives a CitationCongratulations to 2022-2023 President Sunanda Charles in leading our club through a banner year of achievement last year. Over 800 service hours all going back to the community. Achievement of nearly all our goals including establishing a Club foundation. Past District Governor Len Geisler and 2022-2023 Rotary International President Jennifer Jones have awarded the club this citation of achievement. We are so proud. President Mary received the following memo from Past DG Len Geisler " Congratulations to you and your club for earning the Rotary Citation, the most significant award a Rotary club can achieve, for 2022-23. During a year that was challenging for many Rotarians and clubs around the world, your club demonstrated a commitment to achieve your goals, which ultimately helps strengthen Rotary and shape our future. Please share this certificate with your club. Thank you for your support and dedication last year. I truly appreciate it. " Len Geisler
Thank you Sunanda, for leading our club in reaching this very high achievement last year. It was a good year.
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SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS 2023Last Thursday, the ROTARY CLUB OF NORRISTOWN honored three scholarship recipients from the Norristown Area School District. These students were selected by our Scholarship Committee, working with the school district, and were based on exhibited strengths in the areas of academic excellence and community involvement. Each student received $200 towards their education plans. We congratulate these students and wish them continued success in their future educational and occupational endeavors. Winners: Emma Josephine Carpenter - Plans to attend University of Delaware with courses leading to Veterinary School. Dulce Maria Vargas Ochoa - is heading to Cabrini and is undecided at the moment, but is leaning toward majoring Education or Business Christian David Carbone - Plans to attend Villanova with studies in business and finance Logan Hendricks (not present) will attend Rochester Institute of Technology $2500  Our three scholarship winners in attendance are welcomed by Club President Mary Onama and Committee Chair Tim Meyer |
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Canine Partners for LifeWe were visited today by Canine Partners for Life. This non-profit located in Concordville Pa trains service dogs. Dogs take minimally 2 years to train until they are old enough to adopt. And while most dogs learn basic skills like walking with you all the way to pushing an elevator button or opening a cabinet. They are taught not to automatically pickup something small so that they don't accidentally ingest someone's medication. Some dogs are capable and learn advanced skills. Depending on the alertness the dog demonstrates, they learn very advanced skills and can warn an owner if sugar levels are dangerous simply by taste, visually alert dogs can detect an epileptic seizure. Here Suzanne Geouque stands with her dog Morgan.  |
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STEMYEA This year for the first time, our Rotary club made an investment in the future (other than grants) in the area of STEM education. We sponsored middle school students attending the Rotary STEM Youth Explorer Academy host at Kutztown University in early July. This year Christopher Jordan from the Eisenhower Middle School joined 42 other students in the eastern PA area at the camp to broaden their horizons and advance scholastic opportunities in STEM. Here are a few pictures of the experiments, all students received a backpack and a white lab coat.              |
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Bike Collection 2022-2023 Successful It was a drizzly day last Saturday. Due to the planned fireworks, West Norriton decided to postpone 'West Norriton Day' celebrations until Sunday when the weather was better. But the 'Bike Collection' went on anyway since the event was pre-advertised and we had made truck arrangements with Pedals for Progress coming from New Jersey. Their schedule this time of year is pretty tight. And more often than not, our drives have occurred on rainy spring Saturdays. It was a good collection. We picked up the bikes we had collected all year and loaded the truck and headed to the high school. We had numerous visitors dropping bikes at the high school including some looking for the fireworks. Pedals for Progress provided training on breaking down a bike to make it small for shipping.   We processed the new bikes coming in and with 15 minutes to go, we started to break down the tent, and another donor came with 5 bikes. But we have plenty of help from Dave Shoemaker, Judy Bucko, Jack Rule, and Alan Treisbach and made quick work of it.    This is our 15th year collecting bicycles. Rotarian Jim Jones began this project originally in 2008. Around 2012 we started collecting bikes year round. Collections were down during the pandemic and are only now starting to come back. This year we collected 65 bikes and 2 sewing machines saved from the landfill. The bikes are headed to the country of Belize in June and will become family transportation where they have no cars nor public transportation.   These bikes and sewing machines mean remote jobs and education and help the environment by keeping clean energy bicycles out of our landfills.    |
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Dictionary Project Comes to a CloseChair Judy Bucko says, we are caught up from the pandemic. No third grade classes missed their dictionary in the chain. We completed the special Spring distribution of 550 dictionaries to 6 schools. Chairperson Judy thanks all the Rotarians who can out to support and enlighten the students of Rotary's focus on Promoting Literacy. The talks about Rotary changing the World were spirited and highly interactive. They enjoyed showing what they learned and they were eager to explore their new books and write their names in the cover. We let them know we will be back in the Fall right back on schedule.   Gotwals   Hancock    |
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Earth Day 2023It was so much fun ! Noristown Area Girl Scout troops, community supporters and the Rotary Club of Norristown participated in Earth Day 2023 in Padden Park, West Norriton. For Earth Day, we cleaned out the community garden, cleaned up debris, planted oxygenating trees, removed weeds, restored natural drainage, planted butterfly and insect pollinator friendly vegetation. Mulching is next. The scouts and their supporters donated 3 beautiful new trees and all planted many new annuals to bring color to the garden for our coming butterfly visitors. Come visit 2101 Oakland Drive behind the playground. We are planning our June 15th Changeover picnic at the park. The new brick planter fashions the familiar gear shape. Not intended to be official branding, the gear is convenient shape for a circular plater.   Scout, community and club supporters/member donated 3 trees for the garden park area. They are stunning trees elected properly for their location and use.  The girls had so much fun working together planting annuals.     Thanks to all our Rotarians who came out to help. Especially to Diane for all of her planning to make it a success.         Rain barrel to provide water for thirsty flowers and plants.  A Successful Day !!  |
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Trunk or TreatTRUNK or TREAT We had a blast at the Norristown Rec Center on Monday night. The club set up an elaborate grave yard to celebrate Halloween. The community came in droves and the rain held out until the end of the night. Three or four hundred local youths visited the center. The club gave out 50-60 lbs of candy to worthy costumes of all kinds. This is our 4th appearance at this annual event and always a ton of fun.         |
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Student Achievement- NAHS 1-27-22NAHS students honored by Rotary Club of Norristown, Nancy Tellez, Julian Copertino, Katie Griffin, Madeline Plummer, T J Picard - not pictured Kayla Fonesco  At the Jan. 27 meeting of the Rotary Club of Norristown honored six students from the Norristown Area High School with their Student Achievement award ceremony. acknowledging the accomplishments of the students in the areas of excellence in academics, sports, community service, and participation in school leadership. They were highly visible in honor roll lists and National Honor Society , advance placement courses, and preparation for meaningful futures in engineering, public health, psychology, nursing, community development , social studies, pharmacy technology, and math. Their current interests and leadership skills are in student government, tutoring, and sports including: football, volleyball, bowling, soccer, and karate, with several holding part-time jobs. They have applied to colleges including: MIT, Bucknell, Gettysburg, West Chester, Duke, Cal Tech, Lehigh, Temple, Widener, and Gwynedd Mercy. The future looks bright of each. They expressed the boost they got from their parents who have supported and encouraged them throughout their life. We wish them the best in the future as they pursue their future plans. |
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100 Children's Books Donated to the Library
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Rotary Plays CupidRotary Plays Cupid  The Rotary Club of Norristown played cupid to residents of the Montgomery Park Senior Housing Facility. The 50 unit site is the new low income housing facility at 1301 Powell Street former site of Montgomery Hospital. On Thursday 12/13, the club was greeted by Christie Jones, a social worker at the facility, who subsequently reached out to us and mentioned how "very grateful and happy they are and they've been calling". She said, "my residents truly appreciate it and it really made their day". Residents were given 56 bags containing items to show someone cares, such as a reusable mask, puzzle book, pen, note pad, Lysol wipes, hand sanitizer, body lotion, chapstick, chocolate Valentine heart, Rotary flyer and a valentine! Thanks to Denise Ashe and Judy Bucko for organizing this. |
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2020 Bell RingersRotary Bell Ringers are out Helping the Salvation Army Every year for the past nine or ten years The Norristown Rotary Club gives the Salvation Army seasonal bell ringers the day off and step in the weekend before Christmas. It is typically aa very large collection day and often the coldest day of the year also. Normally the club collects at multiple doors at Walmart in Trooper. This year. Walmart was remodeling and had only one entrance. So, Project Chair Judy Bucko arranged to collect at both Walmart in Trooper and Redner's in Audubon. Also, retired Salvation Army Major Fred Hagglund and his wife Major Ruth Aston Hagglund brought their instruments and played during an extended shift and treated shoppers to Christmas Carols. Since we are experiencing a pandemic, the club was masked and observed social distancing guidelines. Also a gift containing hand sanitizer, gloves and a mask were distributed to the shoppers this year.         |
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JUDY BUCKO- ROTAPLAST MISSION TO GUATEMALA Judy Bucko without a hat Last week our own JUDY BUCKO told us about her recent mission trip with ROTAPLAST team to Guatemala repairing cleft lips and cleft pallets. Judy has now participated in several of these missions and plans to continue in the future, citing the thrill she gets from seeing families reactions to viewing their child with a normal face for the first time. ROTAPLAST is a function of ROTARY INTERNATIONAL, and has done some 2000 trips since its inception in 1992, with 13 last year alone. Judy was one of 26 volunteers that formed this years team, performing 114 surgeries. The clinics are free to the families and include both physical and speech rehab as part of the total process. She shared many pictures from the trip as she told of excitement of the kids and their parents to the operations. Judy is caring on a tradition started by LOUISE ZAWADSKI a few years ago. Thank you, Judy for the presentation. |
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THANKSGIVING DINNERS FOR THE COMMUNITY
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ROTARY AT ADVOCATES AGAINST HUNGER Six members of the ROTARY CLUB OF NORRISTOWN helped the ADVOCATES AGAINST HUNGER fresh produce distribution in Norristown last Saturday. They joined other volunteers in handing out food to about 200 local families in need. Thanks to Jim, Judy, Louise,Dave S, Dave V, and Ron for their participation.    |
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CAMP NEIDIG STUDENTS VISITWELCOME CAMP NEIDIG CAMPERS Each year our club sends 6 students to the District sponsored Leadership Camp in Douglassville, Camp Neidig. The students often don't know the people they are going with or teaming with. The idea of the camp is to help them develop skills to lead and learn about themselves and where they may want to develop in order to be tomorrow's effective leaders. The club has been sending students for almost 70 years. The campers stay 4 days and form teams in order to compete and problem solve as a team. At the conclusion they are asked to present their results to parents and peers the final evening. Following the camp, we ask them to attend lunch and tell us what they've learned.  The campers are (l - r) Joanna Zeheng (Methacton HS), Adrianna Wright (Norristown HS), Max Whittenberg (Plymouth Whitemarsh HS), Arielle Greenberg (Plymouth Whitemarsh HS), Nick Oliveri (Methacton HS) and absent was Nicole Henry (Norristown HS) The students gave a brief synopsis of what they learned in 4 days. There was a lot of learning around forming teams and working together. One student even learned to temper her fear of insects. These ambiguously young adults (high school juniors) are thinking ahead toward careers ranging from political science and to entomology.   Adrianna Wright Max Whittenberg   Arielle Greenberg Nick Oliveri .jpg) .jpg) Joanna Zeheng |
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Norristown Fun Day on the RiverNORRISTOWN FUN DAY ON THE RIVER Saturday was a warm day but that didn't stop the Norristown community from having a lot of fun on the River. Heather Gaines did a great job working with Robin and others to plan a successful event. There were lots of activities, live music by the Alan Reynolds band, a real dragon line, many demonstrations and vendors. Our Rotary boat judges Jim Williams, Tom Bown, Judy Bucko, Paul Catrambone, Mark Call and also to Christine Sherbert & Robin Parker, Diane Helm for planning and representing Rotary / Norristown all worked hard to make it a success. A BIG THANK You to these Rotarians who came out to help bring Rotary into the community. Our Rotary Judges  The Dragonboat Event Planners  One favorite activity of the day was the Cardboard Boat Contest. The Water Rescue squad is on the water during the entire race. The boats are created almost entirely out of corrugated cardboard and duct tape. A lot of creativity was demonstrated mostly by area youths. Boats are judged based on Appearance (Creativity, Asthetic Beauty, and supporting the Dragon Boat theme), Design(Originality and Innovation, Simplicity, Compliance with material rules, Efficient use of materials), and of course Speed & Boating Skills ( 1st, 2nd & 3rd place winners o the race. We had 9 boat entrants this year. They were all good and we recycled a lot of cardboard. Some capsize at the race start. You can view the entire race by clicking on the large picture below: VIDEO of the Race (click on picture)  WINNERS Appearance - NPD K9-2431  Design - Elley Elefant Cruise  Speed (Race) 1st place - #2 Witch Raft  2nd Place - #1  3rd Place - #9  |
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ROTARY CLUB HELPS OUT ADVOCATES AGAINST HUNGERThanks to those members who helped with the fresh produce distribution last Saturday.       RARE CANADIAN GOOSE POTATO
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STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT AWARD- PATHWAY SCHOOLThe ROTARY CLUB OF NORRISTOWN recognized JOSHUA SHAW, of the Pathway School, with its Student Achievement Award. Joshua has excelled in academics, helping others , personal development, and leadership in school activities. Congratulations, JOSHUA.  Honoree JOSHUA SHAW is flanked by Pathway counselor JAN HARPER, and Club Student Achievement Director, LOUISE ZAWADZKI  JOSHUA SHAW speaks to the club  JOSHUA thanked his counselor and mentor JAN HARPER
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BELL RINGERS FOR THE SALVATION ARMYThanks to all who came out last Saturday to ring the bells for The Salvation Army. Thanks also to JUDY BUCKO for organizing the collection again this year.         ROSIE- THE CHAMPION DONATION COLLECTOR     |
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HOLIDAY DINNER AT MEADOWOODThe Club held its annual Holiday Dinner at the Meadowood Retirement Community, hosted by our Paul Norderman. The food was great, and the room festive and welcoming. Thanks to Paul, his staff, and Bernie Reilly for putting this event together.   .jpg)  .jpg)  .jpg)      .jpg)  .jpg)  MC John Heyser lead the evening  And he lead the Norristown Rotary Chorus and Orchestra    |
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TRUNK OR TREAT -2018THE ROTARY CLUB OF NORRISTOWN participated in the Norristoen Trunk or Treat gathering at Rosevelt Field on halloween.We gave out treats to many kids from the city. .jpg) .jpg)   .jpg) .jpg)    |
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PATHWAY STUDENT HONOREDAs an extension of our Student Achievement Awards program, the club honored SHAWN LUTHER , from THE PATHWAY SCHOOL, for academic excellence and his contributions in setting a great example for other students to follow, mentoring, and demonstrating how dedication and desire can pay off by turning and apprentice opportunity into a steady job. The school offers training in computer coding, robotics, and other tech areas, and Shaun entered the program and immediately demonstrated aptitude and skills in the area, leading to internship position with a local firm, who realized his abilities , and eventually offered him a permanent position. The PATHWAY SCHOOL founded in 1961 t,serves students with neurological impairment, including Autism Spectrum Disorder, psychological disorders, and serious emotional disturbance. The school has started the new program TEAM CHILDREN which focuses on preparing the students, with an individually prepared program, for the real world,giving them a chance to get beyond their impairments. Congratulations SHAWN.  LILIAN NEARY from PATHWAY introduces SHAWN LUTHER  LILLIAN, SHAWN, AND incoming Student Achievement Chair LOUISE ZAWADZKI |
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The ROTARY CLUBS of NORRISTOWN and AMBLER TEAM UPThe ROTARY CLUBS of NORRISTOWN and AMBLER TEAM UP to provide $12000 for new computer equipment for the Montgomery County OIC (a local not-for-profit) as part of a district matching grant with contributions from both clubs. The grant provided 16 workstations and networking equipment supporting Rotary's efforts in economic & community development to replace obsolete, failing equipment nearly 10 years old. These will be used for training and electronic testing for pre-apprentice job skill training (35 people per year), GED preparation (100 people / year), literacy training, life skills and interviewing skills, English as a 2nd language, after school mentoring (25 youths / year) and STEM education (50 youths per year) and the new Nursing Assistant program just started 2 months ago, training offered both day and night.  Pictured let to right are: Ray Thomas Vice Chair OIC - Dr Michael Seidner Rotary Asst Gov D7430 - Leo Brady Chair OIC - Denise Ashe Exec Dir OIC - Cary Fleisher President Ambler Rotary - Aariann Vaughn OIC - Mark Call President Norristown Rotary   |
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