This week we heard from Liz Wendt from Pro-Act Southeast Pennsylvania. Liz is a where she has severed as a certified Recovery Specialist for 5 years. Pro-Act is staffed by mostly volunteers. Becoming a certified specialist requires 18 months of service and training. Pro-Act is a private non-profit organization treating substance abuse patients by providing services and life skills training. They receive both referrals and walk-ins. Sessions are conducted both in person and by Zoom. They host monthly social events such as Bingo and Bowling. The group provides support in the following areas.: Help in getting gov’t ID, Social Security card, birth certificates reinstatement of driver’s license, planning transportation needs, locate a job, medical help, lifeskill such as budgeting and time management, and mock interviewing. They are funded primarily from gov’t grants and private donations. The county has an active caseload of about 76 cases or about 20 or 30 per staff. They have a service center in Norristown at Marshall and Dekalb Sts. For more information visit here 
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Liz Wendt , PRO-ACT
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Mark
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2026-05-25 04:00:00Z |
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This week our speaker was Bryce Allen, Region Coordinator from Access Services part of Street Outreach in the Norristown area. Access Services contracts with Montgomery County responsible for acting as sort of a concierge service for the homeless in Montgomery County. Bryce along with his three counter parts do case management for directing the homeless to available resources especial shelter. Bryce has been doing this role for 2 years. They receive referrals to follow up on people homeless needing shelter and help with shelters in Norristown, Lansdale and Pottstown primarily. Currently there are about 449 homeless in the county. Human Services opening in Norristown will be a participating shelter, Pottstown has the Opportunity House in Reading, Beacon of Hope is opening near Reading. Montgomery County is the only area county who doesn't require prior residence in the county to receive services. Access Services is not allowed to recommend night shelters nor tell them where to live. Many of the homeless previously had homes and met unfortunate circumstances. Some refuse shelter and prefer to live outside. It was Bryce's opinion the population is growing.
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Bryce Allen, Access Services
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2026-05-12 04:00:00Z |
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SCOTT FISHER - THE BRYN MAWR FILM INSTITUTE Last Thursday the Club welcomed SCOTT FISHER who introduced us to THE BRYN MAWR FILM INSTITUTE and told us some of its history and its weekly and special events. Scott, the Executive Director, related how the CircleTheater that is the home for the institute, opened in 1926 and thrived during the 20's and 30's and lasted until the 90's when it was broke and close to demolition. A group was formed to save and renovate the building, and after a $25 million investment, it reopened as the base for the Bryn Mawr Film Institute. The Institute now is open 250 days a year, featuring most genre of film from artsy , mainstream, to educational. The shows are presented on their two screens and are running for much of the day. They intend to add morning showings this year. They average about 300 movies a year, with "Silver Lining Playbook", "Oppenheimer", and "The Philadelphia Story" ranking as their most popular movies. The Institute currently has 6500 members but you do not have to be a member to buy a ticket and enjoy the shows. He did point out that one of the benefits of becoming a member, is receiving their magazine which details all their upcoming functions. This is the 100th anniversary of the theater and they have several special events planned. Their annual operating budget is $4 million, of which they receive $500,000 in popcorn sales, and the rest in donations and ticket sales. Bryn Mawr Film Institute · 824 W. Lancaster Avenue · Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
Theater Hotline: 610.527.9898 Thank you, Scott for enlightening us about the Bryn Mawr Film Institute.
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SCOTT FISHER - BRYN MAWR FILM INSTITUTE
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Dave Beach
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2026-04-28 04:00:00Z |
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ANNABELLE TRACY - HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Last week our speaker was ANNABELLA TRACEY who talked about Habitat for Humanity, where she is the Director of Volunteers and Outreach for the Montgomery and Delaware Counties. She started with a brief overview of Hab for Humanity which is functioning in 70 countries ,working towards making affordable housing available to as many people as possible. They have programs for rehabbing houses, building new ones, and helping people find ways to build an economic base for home ownership. Her territory covers Montgomery and Delaware Counties where they built 4 new homes last year, and did rehabilitation work on several others. They assisted individuals with 0% loans, low down payments, and financed second mortgages. Next year they expect to expand operations into Norristown. They are always looking for volunteers and have extensive training programs for novice workers. All the detail construction work is done by professional contractors. For more information , check out their website- habitatmontdelco.org or contact Annabella at atracy@habitatatmontdelco.org Thank you, Annabella
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ANNABELLA TRACEY - HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
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Dave Beach
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2026-04-21 04:00:00Z |
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Mark Call- Membership Chair, Mark Clark- new member, Beth Sturman -sponsor, Alan Treisbach- Club President Please congratulate our newest member, Mark Clark, Executive Director of the Montco Senior Adult Activity Center. While it is located in Montgomery County, the center is an independent non-profit, and not part of county provided services. The Norristown center at 536 George Street is completing a significant facilities overhaul. We greatly look forward to partnering with the center as it embarks on some very ambitious, positive changes. To Mark's left is Beth Sturman (Mark's sponsor). Welcome to Rotary, Mark. Mark Call
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MARK CLARK- NEW MEMBER
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Mark Call
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2026-04-13 04:00:00Z |
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MARK CLARK - EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Montco SAAC Last week the Club welcomed MARK CLARK from Monaco SAAC , both as their speaker and as a new member. SAAC which is The Senior Adult Activities Center , is an organization dedicated to enriching the lives of aging adults in Montgomery County. Mark, the Executive Director, highlighted one his main goals of making the center more appealing to adults that have reached a more mature age, removing the stigma that it is only for those 'old' people. His plan is to replace the traditional offerings of arts, crafts, and bingo with activities that will attract persons in their 50s and 60s while still keeping the older folks engaged. Mark came in to SAAC and reviewed the last 5 year plan and shortened and sharpened its focus down to three main goals: 1. Reach out to more people in the community, 2. Enhance the safe, thriving, welcoming senior centers, 3. Build better community connections, which can assist in funding the operations. He also highlighted several of the SAAC programs such as Meals On Wheels, where they are the leading organization in Montco supporting this program. They serve over 120,000 meals a year with a staff of three people at each of their two centers, and the support of 150 dedicated volunteers. Mark pointed out the importance of organizations like Montco SAAC as , in the near future, over 1/3 of the population will be of 60 years of age, and will be looking for services, support, and fellowship. Thank you, Mark, and welcome to our Club.
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MARK CLARK- MONTCO SAAC
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Dave Beach
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2026-04-13 04:00:00Z |
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 SUE SHANNON - HopeWorx Inc. Last Thursday, we had SUE SHANNON from HopeWorx, Inc. as our speaker. Sue spoke of her organization which deals with and gives assistance to individuals experiencing the difficulties of mental health issues. She pointed out that the two most prevalent forms of mental health are anxiety and depression, and they are affecting youth in increasing numbers. HopeWorx works through its community center to offer assistance featuring peer to peer interactions with its clients. This is the basis of the organization as they strive " to ensure people receiving mental health services were satisfied with the services they were receiving." Their funding has been mostly Medicare and Medicaid in the past, but severe cuts in funding have put the group in such financial difficulties that they are forced to close their Community Center in the near future. This will be particularly painful for the Norristown community as the Norristown Hospitality Center will not be reopening in time to pick up the support that HopweWorx has been giving the homeless. You can find out more about this organization at their website- hopeworxinc.com Thank you Sue for this message. We hope that a way can be found to save this worthwhile organization.
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SUE SHANNON - HopeWorx Inc
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Dave Beach
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2026-04-06 04:00:00Z |
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 JENN CAPONE - LAUREL HOUSE Last Thursday the Club featured JAEN CAPONE from Laurel House , who gave us a discussion on domestic violence and what Laurel House is doing to help those in danger and to educate the public on this widespread problem. Jean, the Community Education Supervisor for Laurel House, first described what domestic violence is, and how to detect it, pointing out that there are deliberate patterns of behavior that are usually usually used when one is trying to gain control over another. These include boundaries that are crossed in area such as, abuse that is physical, mental, emotional, sexual, economic, and several other areas. She cited statistics on the problem noting that 1 in 3 students will be affected, 1 in 4 women, and 1 in 7 men,. They are all likely to experience substance abuse in later years. Laurel House looks at more than just the individual problems and strives to examine ways to change the culture of violence. They offer programs that address ways to change societal norms. Besides the emergency shelter that they offer, they have Clinical counseling, Children's advocacy programs, a Domestic Abuse Response Team, which operates 24/7 365 days a year., and the Community Education team that Jean leads. This group works with schools to push the need for establishing healthy relationships , education on danger signs of dating abuse, and providing a support system for troubled students. This involvement begins in middle school and continues through college, where Laurel House educates , not only the students, but also the faculty in institutions. To learn more or to get involved in their programs, visit the site: laurel-house.org Thank-you, Jean, for this talk.
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JENN CAPONE- LAUREL HOUSE
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Dave Beach
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2026-03-31 04:00:00Z |
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On February 14th, the Rotary club and Redners Fresh Food Market hosted a 'Love Your Neighbor' food collection to benefit the Salvation Army. Rotarians took two hour shifts at the entrance handing out a one page list of needed items for incoming shoppers. Shoppers who wanted to help were invited to take a list and add items on the list to their regular shopping. At the exit they could deposit donated food items into waiting shopping carts. Donations were wildly successful, we distributed about 150 item lists and collected 13 or 14 shopping carts full of donated food. A few people donated cash to the sum of $285 which was used to purchase more food. All in all, it was a good day for the Salvation Army and the hungry.
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LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR FOOD COLLECTION
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Mark
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2026-03-21 04:00:00Z |
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At our last meeting, The Rotary Club of Norristown honored several students from the Norristown Area High School. The students were selected by their teachers and the faculty, for their academic, athletic participation and their leadership activities. Each student received praise for their contributions to their classmate's success and their enthesusium. They spoke to the meeting attendees about their future plans which included continued education in the areas of business management, robotics, environmental studies, engineering, sociology, psychology, and most are involved in AP courses, and honors society. We wish them all success in the future. (l to r) JEFF MacNAMARA- school counselor, JACKSON FALK, LUCAS LONGENBERGER, SARA CHAARAOUI, DAYANIS MORALES SALGADO, TIEN TRAN, ALAN TREISBACH (Club President) SARA CHAARAOUI JACKSON FALK LUCAS LONGENBERGER DAYANIS MORALES SALGADO TIEN TRAN
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NAHS STUDENT RECOGNITION 1-8-26
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Dave Beach
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2026-01-12 05:00:00Z |
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 JORDAN POWELL - MITZVAH CIRCLE Last Thursday our speaker was JORDAN POWELL, the from Mitzvah Circle, who gave an overview of his organization and recent additions. Jordan, the Program Coordinator for their Period Supply Program, talked about the concentrated effort the Circle makes in supplying menstrual supplies to those in need, by working with schools, the libraries,YMCA, and other community partners like CHOP, county hospitals and prisons rot distribution. He pointed pout that these essential products are not covered by government funding and they respond to calls for help by delivering straight to the individuals homes. Last year they distributed over 1 million pads. Mitzvah Circle holds several special public events where individuals can receive products and enroll for further help. They also offer educational classes for first timers. Jordan also s[poke about the overall Mitzvah Circle organization. It was founded in 2009 in a garage and mow occupies a 20,000 sq ft warehouse in Lansdale. They serve 5 counties including Philadelphia. In 2025, they served almost 600,000 people, 77,000- in the Norristown area. 95% of the recipients were below the poverty line. They strive to assist families with a variety of needs . After investigating a request, they put together assistance tailored to specific needs, whether it be referrals, information, or good such as clothing, baby needs, shoes, tays and toiletries. For more information, or to volunteer or donate, check out their website at: mitzvah circle. org Thank you, Jordan
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JORDAN POWELL - Mitzvah Circle
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Dave Beach
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2026-01-12 05:00:00Z |
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The ROTARY CLUB OF NORRISTOWN welcomed three new members into the Club at their Dec.18, 2025 meeting. The three members are shown above with their sponsors: LIZ MEYERS (second from the left) with her husband / sponsor Tim Meyers; MARY TREISBACH (third from left) with her husband / sponsor) Alan Treisbach, SABRINA HAINES (fifth from the left) with her sponsor Make Call. Their induction ceremony was led by Membership Chair, Mark Call who capped off a tremendous year of attracting new members.
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NEW MEMBERS WELCOMED TO OUR CLUB
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Dave Beach
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2026-01-05 05:00:00Z |
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JUDY BUCKO. (center) Judy has announced the collection totals for the Club's bell ringing service project. We encouraged the donations of: @REDNER'S $1620 , @ACME $1558 for a total of $3178. This total was matched by the Salvation Army. Thanks to all who participated and to Judy for organizing the event.
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COLLECTIONS FOR THE SALVATION ARMY 2025
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Dave Beach
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2026-01-05 05:00:00Z |
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RINGING THE BELLS FOR THE SALVATION ARMY
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Dave Beach
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2025-12-15 05:00:00Z |
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Last Thursday, the Club celebrated the holidays with its annual Holiday party. The event was held at the Chadwick's Restaurant and was organized by JUDY BUCKO. With great food and fellowship, fun trivia contest, and minimal singing, great time was had by all.
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CLUB HOLIDAY PARTY 2025
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Dave Beach
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2025-12-15 05:00:00Z |
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 \\ DAVID SCHULTHEIS- CEO PATHWAY SCHOOL Last week the Club was honored with a visit from DAVID SCHULTHEIS, the President and CEO of THE PATHWAY SCHOOL ,who brought us up-to-date on the school's present status, new additions, and the unique programs offered. The school is a non-profit organization which offers an educational environment that aims to build social life skills and enhanced educational opportunities for special needs students mainly in the areas of Autism, and other intellectual and emotional impairments. Right at the beginning, he stated that the institution is both a school and a small business and is run for success in both areas. It currently has 165 employees and 185 students which reflects its commitment to offer the most personalize programs for each individual student. The school is very much into using modern tech to educate the students, and David listed the use of ChromeBooks for each student, a STEM program presented to all students, and 12 on-campus 3D printers which introduce the kids to the latest technology. This helps the school with its aim to get all the students "out" so they can exercise their mind, body, and spirit, and be as well equipped to enter society as possible. He sited some examples of how the school accomplishes this: A robotics club that competes with area high schools in regional robotics events; a drama class the performers two plays a year; and several sports teams. The school is K-12 but over half the students are high school age. Most are recommended to Pathway because they are failing in regular schooling and need the special attention. The school receives public funding and additional funding from sending school districts, so there is no additional cost to the student's families. The Pathway School is considered one of the leading schools for special education in the state, and has shown it's approach to be very successful in its mission to install essential life skills in each of its students. Thank-you David, for this message.
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DAVID SCHULTHEIS - PATHWAY SCHOOL
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Dave Beach
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2025-12-08 05:00:00Z |
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DIANE PRATT- 1st Vice President NORRISTOWN GARDEN CLUB  OLVIA BRADY Last week the Club welcomed two leaders of the Norristown Garden Club, DAINE PRATT, First VP, and OLIVIA BRADY, Second VP, who gave us a talk on the history, goals, and events of the organization. The Norristown Garden Club was founded in 1913 to "promote interest in the culture of flowers". This goal is now carried out through many projects and events in the community like their Norristown Blooms project beautifying Norristown, flower shows, flower design workshops, and projects at the Library, Excessive Path, Theater Horizon, and many others. Their major event for each year is their annual Holiday House Tour which presents five houses in the Norristown area, that have been decorated by members, following a given holiday theme. This year's even is its 75th anniversary and will be held on Dec. 12. The cost is #35 with the proceeds going to the club's scholarship fund. Visit their website for more information and many beautiful pictures from their events and projects. www.norristowngardenclub.org Norristown Garden Club presents
our Diamond Jubilee
75th Annual Holiday House Tour!Friday, December 12, 2025
10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
(Rain or shine)The tour includes five beautiful homes in Norristown, West Norriton, Lansdale, and Blue Bell decorated by members of the Garden Club. Fresh flowers and greens, interesting ideas, and handmade decorations are hallmarks of this popular tour. Tickets are limited and non-refundable: $35
Payment must be received by December 5th to guarantee timely delivery of tickets. Purchased tickets will be sent to you via US Mail. Send a check payable to "Norristown Garden Club" with a stamped, self-addressed, business-size envelope to:
Norristown Garden Club, P.O. Box 742, Spring House, PA 19477
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DIANE PRATT - NORRISTOWN GARDEN CLUB
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Dave Beach
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2025-11-18 05:00:00Z |
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REBECCA BLACKLETTER - Norristown Farm Park Last Thursday, the Club welcomed REBECCA BLACKLETTER to speak about the Norristown Farm Park where she is the Environmental Educator. Rebecca talked about the history of the park from the acquisition of 7000 acres by William Penn in 1680, sale to Isaac Norris and William Trent, the construction of buildings in the 1700's some of which still stand today, the creation of the Norristown State Hospital in 1876, to its present use as leased and community agriculture enterprises. The area now has 8 miles of paved trails and another 5 miles of nature trails for public enjoyment in a park that was dedicated in 1995. She related how the area is used by the PA Horticultural Society and several local organizations for use as community gardens. The Farm holds several events each year, mostly free, such as hiking , crafts fairs, bird watching, and other nature related gatherings, and is the host to over 150 programs throughout the year for schools and other local organizations. Thank you Rebecca for updating us on this important local resource. For more information contact Rebecca at: Rebecca.blackletter@montgomerycountypa.gov
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REBECCA BLACKLETTER - NORRISTOWN FARM PARK
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Dave Beach
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2025-11-11 05:00:00Z |
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The Club was well represented at this year's East Norriton TRUNK OR TREAT event last week. Thanks to the Meyers for organizing the project, and to all the volunteers.
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TRUNK OR TREAT AT E NORRITON
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Dave Beach
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2025-10-28 04:00:00Z |
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THE ROBERT SCHMIDT LITERACY PROJECT This week we visited Cole Manor and Marshall Street Elementary schools and shared Rotary stories and distributed dictionaries to some of the 700 third graders in the district as part of our goal to expand literacy.
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Dictionaries Delivered this week 10 -14 & 16
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mark
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2025-10-20 04:00:00Z |
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ROB HAMILTON Last Thursday then Club was happy to welcome ROB HAMILTON who shared his knowledge and family's experience in the ill-fated voyage of the RMS TITANIC in 1912. Rob who has degrees from Cornell, U of Virginia, and Northwestern, and was a professor at Temple where he also chaired the School of Business, is also the grandson of Gretchen Longley who was one of the706 survivors of the sinking disaster of the worlds fastest, largest , and most luxurious (at the time) passenger steam ship . Rob is also a book author, but not on the Titanic. His book is "Not Exactly Rocket Scientists and Other Stories" Rob chronicled the critical events leading up to the disaster; an out of control fire in one of the boilers which probably damaged the hull ; the orders from the White Star president to beat the present record for travel to NYC; tricky visibility at night; lack of binoculars and lack of response to warning bells, and the crew ignoring warnings about ice in the area. Rob gave us several points of interest that are not widely known; he showed the path the Titanic took around the ice flow , and noted that , due to the fire and demand for top speed, there was not enough coal to alter the route, and that there were too few few firemen onboard, and no fire evacuation drill, and that the White Star company threatened the crew to remain silent on the many mistakes that had been made. He personalized the story by relating the actions taken by his grandmother. After the collision and stoppage of the ship, she was told twice that all was ok and to go back to bed. The third time, the steward told her to get her warmest coat and head to the life boats. Once lowered to the sea, she found out that she was the only person in her boat that knew how to row, and took command. In spite of this experience , she continued to go on several more cruses. We thank Rob very much for bringing this very entertain story to our club. He suggests the site below for more information on the Titanic. This is a link to all of Rob's slides https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0?ui=2&ik=f076146200&attid=0.1&permmsgid=msg-f:1845533030504375105&th=199ca6836076a341&view=att&zw&disp=safe
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ROB HAMILTON - TITANIC
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Dave Beach
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2025-10-13 04:00:00Z |
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Last Saturday the bike collection ended with numerous late bike and sewing machine donations attributed to the new location (thanks to West Norriton Township), more promotion and additional storage. We netted around 76-80 bicycle and 12 sewing machines this year about a 20% growth from last year. Early in the day, pedals for Progress told us the collected bikes would likely go in the outgoing Belize shipment. President Alan indicated later that didn't happen. But P4P has a few likely target destinations already in the works. The weather was perfect and many people used the townships circular drive to drive through and drop off. One passerby saw the sign and went home and got their bike to donate. Thanks to Mary for bringing us nourishment. We have two late calls already with bicycles for next year's collection.
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RECYCLED BIKE COLLECTION FOR THIRD WORLD NATIONS
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2025-09-30 04:00:00Z |
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The last two weekends our club has represented Rotary at two community events, last week at East Norriton Community Day and this weekend at Expressive Path Art in the Park. Also on Tuesday night at the Family Fair at the Zoo. The events were well attended and we made numerous new contacts and solicited bicycles and sewing machines for the upcoming collection on Sept 27. The Norristown Rotaract Club joined us both weekends.
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CLUB OUTREACH INCLUDES COMMUNITY EXPOS
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Mark
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2025-09-14 04:00:00Z |
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TERRY REED- CHAIR DISTRICT 7430 ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY TEAM Last Thursday, our club was honored to have TERRY REED, Chair of District 7430 Environmental Sustainability Team , as our speaker. Terry, who first joined Rotary in the Springfield Club, then was a member in the West Redding Club, and an Area 4 Governor, became interested in environmental projects several years ago. He became a strong advocate for finding ways to encourage clubs to get involved in projects that would be most beneficial to environmental preservation. He became an integral part of the newly created Environmental Sustainability Team that was tasked with developing projects that individual clubs could easily do that would improve and sustain various aspects of their local environment. He noted that many clubs had already been doing small environmental projects, and his group wanted to publicize and expand on the list oof these activities that those clubs had been engaged in. The District Sustainability Group , staffed with experts in many of the critical areas of environmental preservation , is able to give assistance, support, and help with grants from Rotary Districts and RI. Terry cited several examples of projects that have been promoted by the Team ,including participation in the annual Rotary Day of Service. Projects include clean-up of streams, parks, paths, public areas, and highways to name a few. The Team can assist clubs in these small projects and provide expertise and funding for more sophisticated projects. He details projrects in Stream Riparian Buffers which restore the stream's ability to fight erosion; Planting Tree projects, where clubs partner with local communities to replant trees : Plastics recycling like the project we are engaged in TREX; Food waste composting; and Pollinating Gardens, also a project we are involved in with our Butterfly Garden. We are very grateful for the message Terry brought to us. Those who would like to know more of support this effort, check out his contact info below.
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TERRY REED - ROTARY DISTRICT ENVIRONMENTAL STABILITY TEAM
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Dave Beach
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2025-09-07 04:00:00Z |
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Rotary Club of Norristown Awards Over $17,000 to Local Organizations At its August 14 meeting, the Rotary Club of Norristown proudly presented donation checks to two organizations making a significant impact in the local community: These funds were raised during the Club’s annual Pancake Breakfast and Silent Auction, held this past May. The awards were presented to : The Norristown Hospitality Center - $10,200 The center is a day shelter that serves those who are homeless or experiencing poverty in the Norristown area. (https://hospitalitycenter.org) And for: Montgomery Child Advocacy Project (MCAP) - $6,800 Their mission is to end and prevent child abuse and neglect in Montgomery County through legal services, advocacy, and education. (https://www.mcapkids.org) The Club’s annual Pancake Breakfast generates proceeds from corporate and private sponsors, a silent auction and basket raffles and donations from Club members and friends. Held at Lower Providence Presbyterian Church, the event draws many from the area and is staffed by Rotary members, friends and recipient organization volunteers. For more information, contact event chair Dave Beach (dbeach04@gmail.com) The Rotary Club of Norristown remains committed to "service above self" and is proud to assist organizations that provide critical resources and support to individuals and families in need across the Norristown area. Check presentation to The Norristown Hospitality Center (L-R) Jack Rule-Norristown Rotary Foundation, Tim Meyers, Dave Beach- Club Fundraiser Committee, Sunanda Charles- Executive Director Norristown Hospitality Center, Alan Treisbach- President of Norristown Rotary Club, Jim Nutt- Club Fundraiser Committee Check presentation The Montgomery Child Advocacy Project (L-R) Jack Rule, Dave Beach -Rotary Club, Mary Anders, Nutmeg- MCAP, William Baldwin-MCAP executive Director, Tim Meyers, Alan Treisbach, Jim Nutt- Rotary Club
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2024-25 RECIPIENTS PRESENTATION
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Dave Beach
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2025-08-18 04:00:00Z |
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On Thursday June 26, the Club held its annual Changeover Picnic where the outgoing officers were acknowledged for their exceptional work in the past year and the new team was presented to the attendees. The 2024-25 President, RUTH HAGGLUND was thanked for the fantastic leadership she exhibited in keeping the Club active and vital within the community and in Rotary District 7430 events. Ruth encouraged and welcomed new project initiatives, led a much needed update of our By-Laws, obtained a grant for the local Salvation Army, assured the successful continuation of critical functions such as student achievement recognition, fundraising, welcoming new members, and leading entertaining and instructional meetings. We all thank greatly for her service over the last few years. She gave a talk at the picnic reviewing all the many accomplishments of the Club over the last year, and thanked the meany people who assisted her in the last lear. Incoming President for 2025-26, ALAN TREISBACH (r), is sworn in by District Assistant Governor Dan Watson-Bey. Alan spoke of the goals for the upcoming year and encouraged member participation.  District AG Dan Watson-Bea, President Alan Treisbach, Past President Ruth Hagglund, President Elect Monica D'Antonio
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2025 CHANGEOVER PICNIC
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Dave Beach
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2025-07-01 04:00:00Z |
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CHRISTOPHER DORMER- NASD SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS Last Thursday, the Club was fortunate to have as its guest speaker, Christopher Dormer, the Superintendent of the Norristown Area School District. Chris gave a detailed account of the make-up of the district, capital projects in process and planned, district improvements, priorities, strategies, successes, and plans for the future. The District haas grown to 7891 students with a racial make-up of 49% Hispanic, 30% Black, and the balance White, Asian, and mixed. He presented the District Mission of educating and inspiring Each and Every student to become a lifelong learner and to give them the tools needed for success in a diverse , global society. He pointed out that the main core value of the district is, that every student is capable of limitless growth, and that there are many difficult obstacles to overcome to realize this value including ,that for 2000 students, English is not their first language, and that a large portion for the student body is touched by poverty. Chris touched on successes the District has seen recently including no new tax increases in the last four years, 140 new staff positions added, and the creation of a capital reserve fund. The academic successes have been impressive also: Their investment in English language arts materials has led to 7% increase in third grade reading and a 30% point in kindergarten students reading levels. The District has been honored as Best Community for music ed and liberal arts, and several other awards. He also spoke of the challenges facing the District which center around funding, with the State being slow to increase funding per a court order, and the delays expected in federal money in the near future. They still have an extensive program of capital expansion and upgrades the the school buildings, some of which are aging rapidly. Thank you Chris for this informative update on our school system.
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CHRISTOPHER DORMER- NASD SUPERINTENDENT
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Dave Beach
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2025-06-09 04:00:00Z |
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2025 PANCAKE BREAKFAST PICS
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Dave Beach
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2025-05-14 04:00:00Z |
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Last week the Club welcomed our second group of NASD students for Student Recognition Awards. School Counselor Jeff MacNamara brought 5 students who had been selected by teachers and staff at the high school. These students were selected on the basis of academic excellence, involvement in school activities as sports, music, art, theater, math and chess clubs, and participation in school leadership in student consul, mentoring, and school outreach to the community. Several are part of the National Honors Society and plan carearrers in Bio Chemistry, Dentistry, psychology, chemistry and other challenging areas. We wish each reaches the goals they have set for themselves. Rafael Avelino-Castillo Brianna Batista Lamar MacKenzie Keller Maitrie Patel Justin Tran
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STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS- MAY 1 2025
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2025-05-06 04:00:00Z |
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LEONARD LIGHTNER- NORRISTOWN MUNICIPAL MANAGER Last Thursday, the Club was very fortunate to have as a guest speaker, the Norristown Municipal Manager, Leonard Lightner, who gave an update of the activities that his administration has been dealing with this year. He listed some of the highlights including The special election coming up on May 20 ,for open seats on the commission; State Hospital rezoning allowing for light manufacturing in the open space; and work on the Zoo new master plan for new land use. The Zoning Board has also been busy with re-use of the Rosevelt Field area which wink be part of the Zoo expansion plus a community center, and a continued discussion of the unsheltered problem in Norristown which will include a new temporary transitional housing shelter to be created. Other projects include working in the creek banks to reduce flooding, repurposing the old PAL center for community use, and the search for a new police chief. Thank you , Leonard for taking the time to bring this update to us.
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Leonard Lightner - NORRISTOWN MUNICIPAL MANAGER
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Dave Beach
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2025-04-23 04:00:00Z |
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DESTINY CHAROKOPOS, MR. JEFF MacNAMARA, ALEX ROJAS-ROMERO,SANTIAGO CANCINO-ALVAREZ, ALANA ECHEVARRIA, SARAH DEWANE- MALONSKI Last Thursday, the Club honored 5 students from the Norristown Area School District for their demonstrated excellence in academics, leadership, sports, and community service. The students, selected by faculty and staff of the high school, spoke about their successes, and their future plans. The group was introduced by Jeff McNamara who listed the achievements of each, which included: National Merit Scholars, National Honors Society, Robotics Club, Math Club, National Art Honors Society, plus tennis, softball, field hockey, and tennis, with time to spare to mentor other students. SANTIAGO CANCINO-ALVAREZ - Biology, Genetically Modified Organisms DESTINY CHAROKOPOS - Biology, Dermatology SARAH DEWANE- MALONSKI - Environmental Science, Marine Science ALEX ROJAS-ROMERO- Math, Actuarial Science ALANA ECHEVARRIA. - Science
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NASD STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
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Dave Beach
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2025-03-18 04:00:00Z |
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Local Volunteer Opportunities Our volunteers assist us by packaging groceries, produce and meats to distribute, restock shelves to feed the hungry. Help teenage students discover and develop music and art skills. Organize and execute events, Have a music or artistic talent? Assist with tutoring. Help anyone hungry, weary or living in the streets. Help serve breakfast & coffee, organize meals, lead devotion, handle client check-ins, manage the food pantry. Day shelter services We are the only non-profit, comprehensive crime-victim agency serving Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. Our confidential services are provided at no cost to survivors of crime and their loved ones. Need help with day to day services. Collect used cell phones. Help battered partners. Shop, volunteer or donate to our thrift shops. Host a donation drive. Our volunteers provide direct service delivery, special events, steering committees, outreach and administrative support – they do it all. Supporting child advocacy From clerical duties to event planning and community outreach, there are various ways to get involved. Volunteer at the Pantry or the Farm. Creating meal kits, distributing to guests. Plant pick and pack, help deliver and pick up from partners. Help feed the hungry. Preparing and delivering meals to the home bound in the area. volunteers can donate their time, extending the reach of the Library and getting the community involved in reaching library goals, expand literacy. Help students prepare for their GED, learn basic educational skills: reading, writing and math and learn English as another language Variety of volunteer Patient Support Services, hospitality, clerical, escort & messenger positions, patient advocate, surgical hospitality, Patient Feeding.
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Local Volunteering Opportunities
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Mark
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2025-01-02 05:00:00Z |
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Thanks to everyone who came out and helped with the Club Service Event Saturday 12/21, by ringing at Acme and Redners. Also, thanks again to Judy for organizing it. A few pictures are below. Thank you all for coming out and supporting the Salvation Army today. Despite the frigid weather I think we brought in a sizabl amount to help our neighbors in need! I know at 6 PM tonight the Acme bucket was really chock full of money! Thank you for your contribution to this Rotary activity. The bell ringers from 2-4 at Acme were our Rotaract partners who enjoyed helping us make this day a success! Merry Christmas! Judy
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RINGING FOR THE SALVATION ARMY
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Dave Beach
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2024-12-26 05:00:00Z |
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Last Thursday evening, the Club celebrated the holiday season with its annual HOLIDAY DINNER PARTY, thanks to the great work of Judy and Vanessa , plus the contributions of others. The food was great and the entertainment, phenomenal! Thanks to all. Hope to have more pictures next week
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HOLIDAY PARTY- 2024
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Dave Beach
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2024-12-17 05:00:00Z |
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HARMA ELLENS- Chair West Norriton Human Relations Commission JOAN WURZEL - Vice Chair West Norriton HRC PATTY MARK- Chair East Norriton HRC At our November 21 meeting, the Club welcomed representatives from the East and West Norriton Human relations Commission, who gave a presentation of the activities and goals of the Commissions. PATTY MARK, Chair of the East HRC, and JOAN WURZEL, Vice Chair from the West group, and HARMA ELLENS, Chair of the West Norriton HRC outline their areas of concern in assisting the communities in processing complaints concerning discrimination in its many forms. They are involved by recording and mediating issues in employment, public housing, education, public accommodations and many other areas. With employment complaints, they evaluate the issues and decide if there is a need to pass on to the EEOC for further action. Employment complaints make up the largest number of issues they deal with. The complaint process has a 180 day limit for submission , followed by a 60 day data gathering process, followed by mediation, which quite often leads to a resolution. They also outlined current projects and what their goals are for the future. The HRCs work closely with both the Montgomery Advisory Council and The PA Human Relation Commission to solve the more difficult issues. Thank you Patty, Joan, and Harma for this informative presentation.
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EAST and WEST NORRITON HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION
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Dave Beach
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2024-12-03 05:00:00Z |
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Last week JEFF TREISBACH, son of our Alan Treisbach, talked about his involvement with the organization BALKAN SUNFLOWERS, who's mission is to build activist lives for social change. They engage and inspire community organizations into action for human rights in Kosovo. The main objective, as listed on their site is: "Objective 1: Children’s academic and social-emotional foundations for inclusion and success in the school are supported by a strong standardized and innovative program. " To learn more or contribute the them, see their website at: Thanks Jeff for visiting us and presenting this interesting information . JEFF TREISBACH
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JEFF TREISBACH- BALKAN SUNFLOWERS
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Dave Beach
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2024-11-12 05:00:00Z |
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Dear Rotarian: November is Rotary Foundation Month. Our Norristown Club encourages each member to help observe this with a contribution to the Foundation, We ask you to consider donating $100 (or more if you are so inclined), so that the Club can get recognition for the “Every Member, Every Year” effort of RI. In addition, our Club sponsors a lottery to award a Paul Harris Fellowship to one or more lucky contribution members by pooling at the points given annually by the Foundation to each contributing Rotarian. The pool is used to draw members’ names and use the pooled points to reach the 1000 level which qualifies the lucky Club member for a Paul Harris Fellowship. This is fun, and encourages all of us to participate. The drawing will be held at a meeting at the conclusion of the campaign. Please consider writing a check any amount is appreciated) and bring your check to the weekly meeting at Jeffersonville Golf Club so I can send it to the Foundation with the appropriate contribution form. If you prefer please send your check to me at my home ( indicated below). Any questions, please call me for clarification. Thanks for your generosity, Rotary Spirit, and help. Jim Nutt, Foundation chairman 700 Radcliff Court Lansdale, Penna. 19446 610-220-6939 
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ROTARY FOUNDATION MONTH
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Dave Beach
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2024-10-28 04:00:00Z |
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Fall Service Projects
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2024-09-20 04:00:00Z |
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----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- -- Dr. Monica D'Antonio- ONE BOOK ONE NORRISTOWN Last week, our own member, Dr. Monica D'Antonio spoke to us about the ONE BOOK - ONE NORRISTOWN project that she heads for the Norristown Borough . The OBON group works to promote book experiences for all ages and backgrounds, by bringing major authors to live interviews to their major events, and by supporting the reading of books to kids through YouTube presentations. These are just two of the ways OBON reaches out to the community, often partnering with other local groups with similar goals. They annually participate in Read Across America- Norristown, Monica started the group in 2021 as a book club, but quickly expanded to reach out to the larger community by bringing in well known authors like Pam Margolis in 2022 who has written books on slavery; Daniel Jose Older in2023 on the subject of murals in Norristown, and this year will welcome Warren Longmire who has written two books "Open Spaces" and "Bird/Diz"- a book combining both poetry, AI, and jazz history. Monica brought copies of both books for us. For more information on upcoming events and the group's goals, check them out at: https://www.onebookonenorristown.com or contact Monica directly Thank-you, Monica
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Monica D'Antonio - ONE BOOK - ONE NORRISTOWN
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Dave Beach
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2024-08-26 04:00:00Z |
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PEDALS for PROGRESS We ended our 23-24 Bicycle collection Saturday. And we will begin again, no sooner than the truck left we got a call with 3 more sewing machines. Despite the incessant rain, we managed a pretty good haul with 43 bikes and 7 sewing machines this year. Bicycles become family transportation and sewing machines are distributed by an off shoot charity called 'Sewing Peace'. Both of these discarded items get a second life where jobs and transportation are rare. Thank you to all those who donated this year. And thanks to Mary Treisbach for providing lunch.
GARDEN UPDATE The Garden Committee met at the Garden to begin cleaning out. Diane Helm indicated we are nowhere near finished. It is fairly large and there is much to do. Work will progress this week. "Ask this old House" the TV show on PBS recently featured a segment on building local community garden with the Girl Scouts. The girls learn how to garden, the Community gets great looking gardens and everybody benefits ! Take a look...
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Used Bicycles Headed to Sierra Leone
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Mark
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2024-05-19 04:00:00Z |
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Several times each year, our club recognizes students from the Norristown Area High School because the excel in areas of high ethical character and display outstanding performance in academics, technology, business, or the arts as well as community service.
It is a proud ddistinction and we are proud to honor both students and parents for the many years they dedicated to coaching and encouragement. We proudly recognize (Left to right) Christina Fritz, Sophia O'Reilly, Haylie Jost, Riley Logan and Ashton Young for they demonstrated excellence. Christina Fritz Sophia O'Reilly Haley Jost Riley Logan Ashton Young
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NAHS STUDENTS AWARDED ROTARY STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
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Mark
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2024-05-19 04:00:00Z |
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The Rotary Rotaplast Team arrives in Medellin, Columbia and gets to work. The Rotaplast team has safely arrived in Medellin, Colombia! "It was exhilarating to see many deep friendships renewed as new friendships formed before your eyes. Tonight, our Rotaplast team of volunteers was born. We all look forward to meeting the families and children tomorrow as we continue the life-changing journey of Saving Smiles and Changing Lives." Follow along on their blog being kept by Darlene Scott Rotarian Judy Bucko happy to be there.
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ROTAPLAST TEAM ARRIVES IN MEDELLIN, COLUMBIA
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Mark
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2024-05-10 04:00:00Z |
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It 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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Camp Neidig Jig
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Mark
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2024-04-25 04:00:00Z |
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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.
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NAHS STUDENTS - 3-14-24
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Dave Beach
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2024-03-18 04:00:00Z |
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Posted by Mark Call
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 Brandon Zuniga Rodezno
Veronica Ritter
Edward FisherDavid Caldwell Jeremiah McCray
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.
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NAHS students honored 3-14-24
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Mark Call
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2024-03-07 05:00:00Z |
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You'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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Scholarship Thank you Letter
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Mark
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2023-12-07 05:00:00Z |
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At 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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NAHS STUDENTS HONORED
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BEA
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2023-11-26 05:00:00Z |
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Dictionary Project Delivery This Week
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Mark
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2023-11-12 05:00:00Z |
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Congratulations 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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Our Club receives a Citation
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Mark
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2023-08-16 04:00:00Z |
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Last 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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SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS 2023
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Dave Beach
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2023-08-07 04:00:00Z |
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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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STEMYEA
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Mark
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2023-07-14 04:00:00Z |
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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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Bike Collection 2022-2023 Successful
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Mark
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2023-05-22 04:00:00Z |
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Chair 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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Dictionary Project Comes to a Close
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Mark
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2023-05-15 04:00:00Z |
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It 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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Earth Day 2023
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Mark
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2023-04-25 04:00:00Z |
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TRUNK 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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Trunk or Treat
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Mark
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2022-11-01 04:00:00Z |
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NAHS 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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STUDENT ACHIEVIEMENT - NAHS 1-27-22
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Dave Beach
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2022-02-02 05:00:00Z |
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Rotary 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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Rotary Plays Cupid
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Mark
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2021-02-15 05:00:00Z |
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Rotary 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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2020 Bell Ringers
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Mark
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2020-12-27 05:00:00Z |
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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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JUDY BUCKO- ROTAPLAST MISSION TO GUATEMALA
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Dave Beach
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2020-02-11 05:00:00Z |
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THE ROTARY CLUB OF NORRISTOWN conducted its annual turkey- Thanksgiving dinner distribution to 65 families in the Norristown area. Members met at ShopRite in East Norriton and packed complete dinners that were delivered to: The OIC Center, Hospitality Center, Family Services of Montco, Methacton High School, and Audubon YMCA, for distribution to the families. Thanks to all who pitched in to help and defray that cost.
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THANKSGIVING DINNERS FOR THE COMMUNITY
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BEA
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2019-11-27 05:00:00Z |
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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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ROTARY AT ADVOCATES AGAINST HUNGER
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Dave Beach
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2019-10-15 04:00:00Z |
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WELCOME 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 Joanna Zeheng
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CAMP NEIDIG STUDENTS VISIT
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MARK
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2019-09-19 04:00:00Z |
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NORRISTOWN 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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Norristown Fun Day on the River
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Mark
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2019-08-01 04:00:00Z |
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Thanks to those members who helped with the fresh produce distribution last Saturday. RARE CANADIAN GOOSE POTATO
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ROTARY CLUB HELPS OUT ADVOCATES AGAINST HUNGER
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BEA
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2019-06-05 04:00:00Z |
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The 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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STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT AWARD- PATHWAY SCHOOL
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Dave Beach
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2019-05-28 04:00:00Z |
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Thanks 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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BELL RINGERS FOR THE SALVATION ARMY
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Dave Beach
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2018-12-18 05:00:00Z |
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The 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. MC John Heyser lead the evening And he lead the Norristown Rotary Chorus and Orchestra
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HOLIDAY DINNER AT MEADOWOOD
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Dave Beach
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2018-12-11 05:00:00Z |
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THE 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.
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TRUNK OR TREAT -2018
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Dave Beach
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2018-11-06 05:00:00Z |
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As 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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PATHWAY STUDENT HONORED
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BEA
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2018-06-13 04:00:00Z |
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The 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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The ROTARY CLUBS of NORRISTOWN and AMBLER TEAM UP
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mark call
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2017-05-30 04:00:00Z |
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