Las Vegas Rotary Club Weekly Speaker

Ted McAdam started our meeting with the invocation.

President Jackie presented our speaker Kimberly Mull with our Share What You Can Award.

President Jackie and Melanie presented PHF recognition to Jaime Goldsmith +3 and PP Russ Swain +8.

President Jackie, Toni Kern and Janet Lencke congratulated Dan Adamson on winning our raffle.

PP Mary Ann Avnet and her husband Steve visited from New Jersey.

PP Kathy Dalvey and her son Max joined for lunch.

PP Karen Whisenhunt and Max announced the soccer match dates.

PP Jim Hunt and Sergeant At Arms Deb Granda discussed the next cigar social.

Melanie Muldowney our Rotary Foundation Director presented Paul Harris Fellowships to our past member Bob Barnard’s wife Yoko and son Larry.

Marie Walsh gave us the breakfast with books update.

Jerry Engel and his Valentine Diane led us with a Love song.

Bill Stieren missed the Joker with a 2 of diamonds. The pot grows on.

Barbara Billitzer won the Lawry’s bucks.

At President Jackie’s head table were Carey Grohs, her husband Chuck and our speaker Kimberly Mull.

February 13, 2020

President Jackie Thornhill presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO and then adjourned the meeting

The victim of domestic child sex trafficking between the ages of 11 and 13, as well as domestic violence and multiple sexual assaults, Kimberly is a survivor turned advocate. She holds her Masters in Victim Services Management and utilizes her more than a decade of experience working with victims of violence against women, including over 400 sex trafficking victims, to influence policy makers and legislators in creating trauma informed victim focused policy.

Kimberly founded KMAC after a trauma inducing employer led to her realization that not all non-profits or mission oriented organizations are actually supportive of survivors working in the anti-violence field. Seeing the need in the corporate world, she wanted to create a survivor owned company that understands the intersectionality of business and victimization, develop practical solutions for employers and employees, and help foster a greater understanding for everyone in the #MeToo era.

Dear Rotarians,

Our club has made such an impact on our community and the world through our contributions to our local Las Vegas Rotary Foundation and the Rotary International Foundation. Today I wish to follow up on the ways our club can qualify for the 100% Every Rotarian Every Year (EREY) banner. Melanie Muldowney presented this information last week. The details:

By considering what I am writing about, we can qualify for the Presidential Citation as well as the banner mentioned. We have already met the requirement of $100 per capita, which means our club contributions to the Rotary International Foundation annual fund averages more than $100. Check that box ✔. The other requirement for the banner is that each club member contribute a minimum of $25 to the annual fund. This is where we are a little short. If you are giving to our local Foundation, thank you so much. If you are considering applying to receive you initial PHF or upgrade a level during our club match, this will qualify. If, you are not considering at this time, would you consider just giving $25 to the International Foundation? We are also about to achieve our yearly goal of contributions to the International Foundation. Another checkbox✔ for the Presidential Citation that your contributions will help achieve as well! Three goals achieved with a single contribution!!

The many projects of our International Foundation are too numerous to list here. Please go to rotary.org and click on Foundation to know just how our money is being spent. Here is just a small sampling of how your contribution will help our International Foundation with its work.

Since it was founded more than 100 years ago, the Foundation has spent more than $4 billion on life-changing, sustainable projects. Here is a breakdown of grants issued during fiscal year 2018 in the RI areas of focus.

We can really use your help. Please consider making a $25 donation.

Jackie Thornhill
President
Las Vegas Rotary Club

Tina Bishop led us in song.

Sergeant at Arms Chase Carter posed with Rosalee Hedrick.

Rosalee Hedrick brought us up to date on our membership drive and upcoming orientation.

Renee Gamero announced our upcoming 25 Club social at the Neon Museum.

President Jackie presented our speaker Theresa Bower with our Share What You Can Award.

PP Michael Gordon gave the invocation.

PP Jim Tucker missed his chance at the Joker by pulling a 6 of Hearts.

New member Janna Velasco won the Lawry’s Bucks.

Janice Lencke announced our annual fundraiser.

Carey Grohs announced the 25 Club project Destiny Rescue

Birthday imposters were recognized by President Jackie with a contribution fine.

At President Jackie’s head table were her friend Brenda Brown, Dr Andy Kuniyuki and our speaker Theresa Bower.

At our birthday table were Bob Werner, Murray visiting from Canada, and Pete Samuolis.

A Group shot of the membership…..except the photographer.

President Jackie Thornhill presented our speaker with our “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO and then adjourned the meeting. We completed a group photo at request of the District Governor.

Theresa Bower is a Recruiter for the 2020 Census. She has lived in Henderson for 20 years. For 4 decades, Theresa has served successful businesses as a creative brand consultant, a past advisor for the Los Angeles SBA, a writer for Yahoo! and a seminar facilitator. She’s taught at several colleges, including CSN and Art Institute. In 2000, she worked as a Census Enumerator for the Non-Response Follow-up unit.

Census data, collected every 10 years, determines representation in Congress and determines how funds are spent in each community on things like roads, and schools. The 2020 Census will use a new design that incorporates Online and phone response options in addition to the traditional paper option. Theresa will share with us the incredible importance of the 2020 Census, as it impacts each of us on a local level.

Dear Rotarians,

The year is 2020 and you know what that means? The Federal Government must meet its Constitutional requirement to count “We the People.”

“Census day was set at the first Monday in August 1790. Failure to cooperate with a marshal or assistant was punishable by a $20 fine. Today, the controlling law for the U.S. Census is Title 13 of the U.S. Code. The law requires that the census be conducted on or about April 1, 1980, and every ten years after that. The returns must be made available within nine months in order to apportion members of the House of Representatives to each of the states.”

Ever since it seems that our representatives in Washington DC are counting on redistricting and additions of congressional districts that may affect the balance of power. This will potentially give some states more of a representative presence in Washington than others. It would appear that little has changed over the centuries. Politicians were, in the beginning, arguing and they still are! Over the centuries and decades some of the issues argued were, for example, asking about professions in 1790. A New Hampshire representative said his constituents had several professions depending on the season and that question would be confusing. Some representatives were concerned about the questions asked. Others felt more questions should be asked to get a better picture of the citizenry.

So, every 10 years we are put through the paperwork again! When will the Census Bureau get in the 21st Century and let us answer online? Perhaps today’s speaker will answer this question and many more.

The Title 13 law stated that the count conducted in 1980 and every ten years thereafter shall be an actual headcount. The count in the intervening years need not be an actual headcount but may use statistical sampling methods to get a reasonable approximation of a head count.

Today, all persons are counted as whole persons — the original census counted “other persons” (slaves) as three-fifths persons for the purposes of apportionment. This fractionalization was removed by the 14th Amendment. The US Attorney General ruled in 1940 that there were no longer any Indians in the United States who could be classified as “not taxed.” In the Constitution, non-taxed Indians are not counted.

So, as the population of the United States has changed over its 231 years, the census has had to change to meet its demands. As we enter into this census this year, politics has intervened once again as the question of citizenship is debated.

We will learn today what the 2020 census is all about. What questions are in or out. How to become involved as Census takers. When will we be receiving our census questionnaires? Will Census takers be coming to our homes? What about the segment of the population that will refuse to participate? In 1790, the “not cooperating” fine was $20, a huge amount of money at the time.

The final report of this year’s census will be very important to millions of people. We the people will be waiting to see how it will affect our lives and our country over the next decade.

Jackie Thornhill
President
Las Vegas Rotary Club

Sergeant at Arms Judith Pinkerton photo bombed Rosalee Hedrick’s announcement of the new member orientation.

Rose Falocco presented her invocation.

President Jackie presented our speaker Kat Miller of Nevada Department of Veteran Services with our “Share What You Can Award”.

President Jackie named Carey Grohs as Rotarian of the Month.

PP Jim Kohl missed the Joker but doubled his money.

Our speaker, Kat Miller of the Reno Central Rotary Club exchanged banners with President Jackie.

Kathy Mahon announced her receiving a lifetime achievement award.

John Ingeme won the Lawry’s Bucks.

Jerry Engle on a ladder split the room in singing “God Bless America and America the Beautiful”.

Deb Granda announced the need for members to participate in our Blood Drive.

At President Jackie’s head table were Greg Maguire, PP Steve Linder and our speaker Kat Miller.

Annie Nounna was joined for lunch by her best friend.

Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: January 30, 2020

President Jackie Thornhill presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO and then adjourned the meeting.

Kat is the Director of the Nevada Department of Veterans Services, responsible for supporting the State Veterans Cemeteries, Veterans Homes, and Veterans Service Officer program.

Kat served 34 years in the United States Army. Beginning her career as soldier in the Woman’s Army Corps, she achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant before commissioning as a military police officer.

She has served around the world, to include Panama, Germany, Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq, and Afghanistan; and commanded at company, battalion, and Army Command levels, earring the distinction as the longest serving brigade commander in modern Army history.

Kat’s three Pentagon tours included duty as the Commander of the Army Corrections Command, supervising six correctional facilities and developing policy for the detention of unlawful enemy combatants. After retiring, she taught bachelors and masters level college course at the University of Maryland and the University of Nevada, Reno until she was appointed by Governor Sandoval as Director.

Kat’s education includes a Master’s of Science degree from the U.S. Army War College and a Master’s of Public Administration from Roosevelt University in Chicago.

Speaking Topics

From Private to Colonel—and all the Bumps In Between

Never dreaming of a career in the military, Kat found herself following the promise of a college education into a life she never imagined; leading soldiers on 5 continents in both war and peace. Hear an inspiring—sometimes amusing, sometimes challenging—story of serving in the United States Army.

Celebrating the Legacy of America’s Women Warriors!

Take a walk through time as Kat highlights the history of women in the U.S. Military; from 1775 through today’s modern force. She will draw from her distinguished career to offer perspectives on the contribution of women warriors and why they are essential to the success of America’s military.

You Need America’s Veterans—More Than They Need you!

The media often portrays veterans as broken, dangerous, and unstable. While some veterans both need and deserve assistance, this inaccurate media portrayal prevents many from seeing Veterans for who they really are. Kat shares her experience as Neavda’s Director of Veterans Services to showcase the contributions of America’s Veterans and provide ideas about how you can support our military and veterans.

Dear Rotarians,

Also, on my list of speakers was a representative from Veteran’s services. I asked that the area of focus be on health-related issues. Taking care of those who take care of us by keeping us safe and preserving our freedom is the one responsibility that our government must take not just seriously, (that is a given,) but place its importance as a top priority.

Our club has long supported our active duty military through the Wetzel awards and has, during this year given financial support to the local USO. We are so fortunate to have so many veterans as club members, and we thank them for their service.

To quote from the Institute of Medicine, “The men and women in the United States armed forces confront health challenges of a scope and complexity that few other Americans ever experience. Active-duty personnel in combat directly face risks of injury or death. In addition, both combat forces and personnel serving away from the front lines may experience lengthy exposures to hazardous environments, either natural or produced by human activities. Chemical exposures, for example, may at times exceed those that would be considered safe in a civilian working environment. Beyond immediate physical threats, military personnel often must deal with the effects of being in high-intensity, stressful, and dangerous environments, sometimes for months or years at a time.”

There is a laundry list of physical ailments that can result from this excessive exposure. Most of us are aware of the cancers, coronary disease, diabetes, hypertension, chronic fatigue and so many more, but what about the mental issues? We hear about PTS, used to be known as PTSD, but therapists now do not wish to label this as a disorder. Therapists hesitate to use the description of mental illness. The preference is that is the result of a traumatic event or events. But what about veteran homelessness, drug abuse and suicide?

I am especially interested in the veteran homelessness. Why are our military veterans on the streets? Is it their choice or lack of opportunity? If it is a lack of opportunity, then the Federal government shoulders some of the burden.

Three weeks ago we heard Judith Pinkerton speak about her Music for Life program and how she delivered it to an Air Force Base in Alaska. Another member, Dr Michael Williams, works with Veterans through his skill with Transcendental Meditation. Alternative therapies, that are having some amazing results.

Is the Department of Veterans Affairs offering alternative therapies to our active duty and veterans? Members of the military, like civilians, increasingly are using dietary supplements. Although some supplements may provide benefits to health, others may compromise the readiness and performance of service members. The risks may be greatest for specific military populations, such as members of Special Forces units, who often endure harder tasks and harsher environments and therefore face heightened physiological demands.

These several potential health disciplines and many others I hope are being considered as additions to the standard medical practices. Many of us civilians practice a combination of both. Shouldn’t our military and veterans be offered both as well?

Additionally, first responders are also exposed to many of the same health challenges. They deserve our care and compassion as well.

Jackie Thornhill
President
Las Vegas Rotary Club

Val Hatley missed the Joker but doubled his bet with $10.

Toni Kern announced our club’s “Together We Read” program.

President Jackie presented our speaker Daniel Liles with our Share What You Can Award.

President Jackie and PE Richard Jost presented a check for $4,000 to Chris Palladino of Junior Achievement.

PP Michael Gordon gave us some wonderful info then led us in song.

PP Jim Kohl gave the invocation.

Kirk Alexander was our Sergeant At Arms.

Chantay Ben Shimon our Global Grants Scholar, expressed her appreciation for our club sponsoring her.

Bob Werner won the Lawry’s Bucks.

Bob Werner introduced a visiting Rotarian from Germany.

At President Jackie’s head table were Marie Walsh, John Ingeme and our speaker Daniel Liles.

Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting:  Thursday, January 23, 2020

5 Guest of Rotarians introduced.

Special guest, Chantay Ben Shimon, the Global Grants Scholar sponsored by the Las Vegas Rotary Club and District 5300 was recognized and applauded.  

Daniel Liles was the 2011-2012 Ambassadorial Scholar to India which was sponsored by District 5240 in California. Thru his photography and comprehensive narrative, we were able to understand the many cultural differences and challenges he experienced as he set out to find and execute a meaningful Service Project.   He generously shared his personal growth from acknowledging cultural bias that he did not know existed to how the experience molded him and guided his career path and choices he makes even today. It was that experience that led him to Will Beckley and ultimately to our Club.

Dear Rotarians,

For the second time this month, we will hear from one of our own, Daniel Liles. Daniel has quite an impressive resume and a Rotary Club history. Daniel was an Ambassadorial Scholar sponsored by District 5240, and the Thousand Oaks Club. Daniel will have much to share with us about his year long service project. Many of us know Daniel through our work with Beckley Elementary. He is always around with a smile, a kind word and support for Rotary.

I want to provide more information about Rotary International Scholarship programs. Some of you may have been introduced to Chantay BenShimon who, with assistance from PP Karen Whisenhunt, is applying to our District for the Global Grants Scholarship, formerly known as Ambassadorial Scholarships. They were founded in 1947 and the purpose has not changed. According to Rotary International, the purpose of the Ambassadorial Scholarships program is to further international understanding and friendly relations among people of different countries and geographical areas. The program sponsors several types of scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students. While abroad, scholars serve as goodwill ambassadors to the host country and give presentations about their homelands to Rotary Clubs and other groups. Upon returning home, scholars share with Rotarians and others the experiences that led to a greater understanding of their host country. Daniel is going to share this and much else with us today.

Rotary International averages about 7.5 million in scholarship awards per year. Over its history, RI has awarded over 350,000 scholarships. There are two types of scholarships. 1. Rotary clubs offer scholarships for secondary, undergraduate, or graduate study. Rotary club scholarships are given by individual clubs and are open to anyone except Rotary members and their families. 2. The Rotary Foundation offers scholarships for college graduates and professionals to study peace and conflict resolution. Rotary peace fellowships are available to candidates who want to participate in a master’s degree or certificate program at one of our six partner universities.

Global Grants Scholarships of which Chantay is preparing for, are for graduate students studying abroad in one of Rotary’s Six Causes:

Scholarships last from one to four years and can include an entire degree program. Global grant scholarships are funded using cash or District Designated Funds matched by the World Fund.

Rotary International also awards Peace Fellowships. According to rotary.org, each year Rotary awards up to 100 fully funded fellowships for dedicated leaders from around the world to study at one of our peace centers. In just over a decade, the Rotary Peace Centers have trained more than 1,200 fellows. Many of them now serve as leaders at international organizations or have started their own foundations.

Our contributions to the Rotary International Foundation are what provides the opportunities  for men and women all over the world to participate in Rotary’s six areas of focus. Rotary members are a major catalyst in nominations for these scholarships and fellowships.

If you know anyone who might be a great candidate, please go to rotary.org to learn more about the requirements for application.

Jackie Thornhill
President
Las Vegas Rotary Club

Toni Kern opened the meeting with the invocation.

Ted McAdam along with our recognized airmen from Nellis and Creech led us in song with “The US Air Force.”

Sergeant At Arms Mike Cudiamat and 25 Club President Carey Grohs posed for a picture.

President Jackie presented our speaker with our “Share What You Can Award”.

President Jackie and PE Richard presented a check to “After School All Stars”.

PP Jim Hunt missed his chance at the Joker.

Our speaker Jeff Civillico showed us one of his balancing skills.

Our fourth quarter Nellis and Creech Airmen were recognized with our Wetzel Awards.

Melanie Muldowney and President Jackie presented Paul Harris Fellows to Andy Kuniyuki with his first, Lloyd Sauter with his fifth and President Elect Elect (PEE) Mike Ballard with his fourth.

Marie Walsh shared the success of our Breakfast with Books event.

Kathy Mahon drew the Lawry’s Bucks for the second week in a row.

Erik Astramecki joined PE Richard Jost to be recognized for his sponsorship of our Annual Fundraiser.

Along with President Jackie at the head table were Janice Lencke, Eric Astramecki and our speaker Jeff Civillico.

Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting: January 16, 2020

Janice Lencke introduced today’s speaker Jeff Civillico to discuss his organization Win-Win Entertainment. Jeff is a wonderful story teller and professional performer. He shared with us how he came to be a performer through acts of service. The age of 7 is when his passion for performance came to life. His father, a dentist, had an established relationship with a school for children with special needs. His father’s connection welcomed the performance and Jeff loved the experience. Although he went on to become a professional performer including cruise lines and a show in Las Vegas at the Paris; performing for children-in-need fulfills him. He just closed his show at Paris after ten years to expand Win-Win Entertainment. Win-Win is currently in 7 states matching “time and talent” of professional performers in direct service to children’s organizations such as St. Jude’s Children’s Ranch and UMC bringing the joy of performers to the children who need it most. As he grows Win-Win Entertainment he will continue key note speaking and corporate engagements.  We can help by advocating for awareness of Win-Win Entertainment. More information at winwinentertainment.org

President Jackie Thornhill presented our speaker with a “Share What You Can” award to benefit the local USO and then adjourned the meeting.

Judith is a keynote speaker, author, radio show host, recording artist, and licensed board-certified music therapist. As a leading expert in music-based stress management, Judith empowers people globally to live differently.

Her call to action TEDxUNLV platform MUSIC POWERS POTENTIAL alerts people about their music listening habits that may provoke harm, addiction and dis-ease. As a popular speaker and collaborator, Judith addresses stress management to develop emotional fluidity and improve emotional intelligence with user-friendly life skills building capacity to deal with more stress. Audiences learn how to make music work like medicine, applying special mood formulas from all genres to regulate emotion. Featured in her popular podcasts, Judith spontaneously takes guests on a journey, weaving their life story with insights illustrated by their music choices and links to music medicine applications.

Judith has written numerous books, produced Music Medicine Pills™ including her artistry on violin, and creates constant new content at the MusicMedicineClub.com. Her accredited eCourses have been endorsed by the Nevada State Board of Nursing, Certification Board for Music Therapists, and other health boards since 1990. Judith is now available online for consultations at MusicTelemedicine.com.

Founder of Music 4 Life® Inc., Judith produces, presents and supervises Music 4 Life programs and products online and locally in Las Vegas, Nevada. Her work grew out of a hospital experience when her solo violin music replaced medication post-surgery. As a violinist, she has performed with symphonies from Switzerland to Alaska as well as dozens of stars on the Las Vegas strip, including Metallica, Elton John, Andrea Bocelli, and Donny Osmond.

Judith provided music therapy services for more than 11,000 patients in addiction residential treatment centers since 2012. Prior to her recovery focus, she founded and managed a nonprofit music therapy clinic for two decades as clinic director, researcher, grant writer, internship director and music therapist. She was responsible for securing over $500,000 in state and private grants to support people from “cradle to grave” with disabilities, mental illness and medical conditions. Judith spearheaded efforts resulting in the new Nevada law for music therapy state licensure. Judith is the first to receive that license in the USA.

Judith served her professional association as President of the Western Region Chapter of the American Music Therapy Association. She chaired Las Vegas’ only music therapy conference, attracting music therapists from across the country, Australia, England and Spain, and taught music therapy at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Judith’s global healing work has been honored by the Academy of Country Music and Aflac, Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce, and TEDxUNLV 2014. She has presented for the International Women’s Forum “Music an Instrument for Change,” International Association for Comprehensive Energy Psychology, American Holistic Nurses Association, and numerous national conferences. Judith has been featured on radio, television, on the cover of St. Rose Hospital’s magazine, Corporate Wellness Magazine, Billboard Magazine, Recovery.org/ProCorner, Body Mind Spirit Magazine, Las Vegas Magazine, Maturity Today, Senior Press, So. Nevada Healthcare Journal, El Heraldo de Las Vegas, Las Vegas Review Journal, InLight Times, and The Las Vegas Sun.

Dear Rotarians,

I hope you all had a Very Happy Holiday season and are looking forward to the next six months of our Rotary Year!

I know I am.

We have new 25 Club officers and they are off to a dynamic start. They have many ideas for Socials and a new International Service Project with Destiny Rescue. More about this upcoming.

Our speaker today is our own Judith Pinkerton. She will tell us all about her music career here in Las Vegas and her latest music project. Las Vegas has been called the “Entertainment Capital of the World.” World Class large production shows, small venue music shows, the Smith Center for live music and plays, restaurants from most of the notable chefs and second locations for many eateries in New York and Chicago.

What is the history of entertainment in Las Vegas? I could not possibly detail it in this short message, but some of the most well-known entertainers have performed here over the years. The “Rat Pack” and Elvis are some of the most prolific as they have spawned several tributes shows. A good friend of mind is a Frank Sinatra tribute entertainer and performed at the Rio’s Rat Pack show back in the day. From the Rat Pack, we go to several high-profile entertainers such as Wayne Newton, Liberace, our own Danny Gans, (very missed,) and the “topless revues.”

Then came the magic shows, Siegfried and Roy, Penn and Teller, David Copperfield, Lance Burton, (I remember when Lance Burton signed a “13” year deal with the Monte Carlo,) and we all thought we wouldn’t live that long or would he!

Then came the big productions shows due to the takeover of the corporate bean counters. Production shows were more “cost effective” than paying name entertainers. These shows then gave way to the Cirque du Soleil shows. The original and still my favorite, Mystère, then KÁ, O, Zumanity, Elvis (gone,) Beatles Love, Michael Jackson and Criss Angel with his amazing magic. Now we have gone full circle as big-name entertainers are now performing residencies, the new thing!

We also host the NFR, (National Finals Rodeo,) Las Vegas Bowl, Vegas Golden Knights, Las Vegas Raiders, woohoo! A possible NBA franchise, an MLS Soccer team and so can an MLB Baseball team be too far behind? I have heard rumors that the Kansas City Royals are thinking about a move and Las Vegas is on their radar. I would rather have the San Francisco Giants, but they have a beautiful new AT&T stadium and a huge fan base.

The Smith Center opened in March of 2012 and suddenly, Sin City had culture. Major Broadway plays are on the playbill and local Las Vegas entertainers perform in the Cabaret.

I guess that Las Vegas IS the Entertainment Capital of the World! If you can’t find something to do…I wonder? 

Jackie Thornhill
President
Las Vegas Rotary Club

President Jackie’s Membership committee enjoyed a good year.

PP Russ Swain misses the Joker but pulls a $50 Ace.

PP Jim Kohl presented a check from Howard & Howard and the LVRF to the Boy Scouts.

PP Jim Hunt was December’s Rotarian of the Month.

PP Jim Hunt and PP Ginger Anderson presented the special people in their lives with next level Paul Harris Fellowship pins.

PP Ginger Anderson was joined by her husband Dan for lunch.

Jerry Engel led us in song.

Gregory McGuire won the Lawry’s Bucks.

Deb Granda give PP Randy Donald a Christmas peck on the cheek.

Bill Houghton introduced his son Cooper.

At President Jackie’s head table were Rose Falocco, PP Kathy Dalvey and Rosalee Hedrick.

Anil Melnick led our invocation for the last meeting of 2019.

2019 was closed out by The Somerset Academy Sky Pointe choir. They were fantastic.

Sergeant At Arms Deb Granda exchanged banners with guest Rotarians.

Sergeant At Arms Deb Granda exchanged banners with guest Rotarians.

Las Vegas Rotary Club – December 19th, 2019

Club Assembly

Dear Rotarians,

This has been a busy week. We say goodbye to one of our long-time members and friend, Colonel Bob Barnard.

We will listen to our Board of Directors update the membership on what event, socials and projects have been completed so far. And, I will have completed my first six months as President…Wow did that go by fast!

Today, as we conclude that our last regular meeting of the calendar year, we look forward to spending another Holiday Season with our families and friends. The world each day seems to be is such a state of uncertainty, we are so thankful for our Rotary Club and our fellow Rotarians.

When we return, we look forward to the last six months of the Rotary year. We still have so many events and projects to complete. Some of the projects we have planned or in the planning stages, are Foundation Matching points, a new Global Grant, new 25 Club International project, the 4 Way Test Speech contest, (new chair, Rose Falocco,) the Mayors Cup, Wine to Water, Cigar Fellowships, RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards,) Wetzel Awards, Dan Stover Music Contest, the Annual Fundraiser, Valedictorian Luncheon, District Assembly/Conference and District Awards, Putting Tournament, Superbuild, Highway Cleanup and The Debunking Party. No wonder our club is the Greatest Rotary Club in the World!

So, members new and seasoned, you have many opportunities to become involved with club committees and the committee chairs would welcome your help! Please reach out if you haven’t already been contacted. Reconnect and experience the Fellowship of Rotary!

From me to all of you, I wish you the Happiest of Holiday Seasons, Peace and Prosperity in the New Year and all the joys of Rotary Fellowship!

Jackie Thornhill
President
Las Vegas Rotary Club

Tina Bishop led us in song with Jingle Bells.

President Jackie presented our Share What You Can awards to our speakers.

President Jackie, Janet Linder and Rosalee Hedrick inducted two new members to our club Deborah Delanoy and Janna Velasco.

PP Randy Donald won the Lawrys Bucks.

Pete Samoulis misses the Joker.

Michael Williams led us with his invocation.

Marie Walsh was recognized as Rotarian of the Month.

Marie Walsh poses with Eugene Toyama and Shannon Brown.

In Honor of Colonel Robert L. Barnard.

Bob Werner exchanged banners with our visiting international rotarian.

Birthday Rotarians Jimmelle, Michael and Randy Donald pose for a picture.

Beckley Principal Shannon Brown receives a Paul Harris Fellowship for her dedication to our Club.

At President Jackie’s head table were Brock Fraser and our speakers from Opportunity Village, Adam Joseph and Gregory Gudenkauf.

Sergeant at Arms Jimmelle Trijo exchanged banners with 3 visiting Rotarians.

Sergeant at Arms Jimmelle Trijo exchanged banners with 3 visiting Rotarians.

Sergeant at Arms Jimmelle Trijo exchanged banners with 3 visiting Rotarians.

December 12th, 2019

Adam K. Joseph is Opportunity Village’s Vice President of Philanthropy and also serves as member of the Executive Team helping set the strategic direction for the organization. Reporting to President and CEO, Bob Brown, Adam along with his dedicated team has oversight for all fundraising and donor relation initiatives, which include capital campaigns, annual giving programs, major gifts, grants, and event fundraising.

Adam is a result oriented, cross-functional senior executive with 20- plus years of expertise in scaling organizations through strategically focused leadership, direction, and profitability. Previously he was a CFO for a family office in Texas, which has investments in the areas of technology and hospitality. He is a disciplined and motivated leader who excels in leveraging high-performing teams and relationships at all levels.

Adam and his wife have now returned to Las Vegas for their second time. He is a graduate of the Conrad N. Hilton College at the University of Houston. Adam is honored to be an integral part of Opportunity Village, helping it to foster lasting partnerships in Southern Nevada and beyond. More importantly, he is committed and focused on creating a path forward for the future of OV for the next six decades and beyond.

Gregory has the honor of working in many roles at Opportunity Village over five years supporting people with disabilities in Southern Nevada. Gregory currently serves as the Director of Development, coordinating OV’s Major Gifts efforts, annual giving, legacy giving program and raising funds for OV’s Capital Campaign. Before joining Opportunity Village, Gregory served as a consultant for the Nevada Community Foundation and the Resource Development Manager for the Nevada Law Foundation. Gregory has served as Part-time Graduate Instructor for the Public Administration Department at University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Gregory earned a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from UNLV and taught undergraduate courses as a Graduate Assistant. Gregory earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from The Ohio State University and worked in the Group for Attitudes and Persuasion Lab conducting studies on power, persuasion, and self-validation. Gregory is currently volunteering his time as the Treasurer of the Association of Fundraising Professionals – Las Vegas Chapter

Dear Rotarians,

Congratulations to all the 25 Club members of the Las Vegas Rotary Club! For the 14th year in a row, we raised more money than our Partner Service Club, Kiwanis. The final total for our club was $9485.13 which purchased 106,691 cans of food to refill the Salvation Army Food Bank. The Kiwanis Clubs raised enough money to purchase 76,278 cans of food. The truly wonderful benefit to our clubs’ 65th year of this competition is to help with the Salvation Army’s effort to feed the community’s homeless and hungry.

As we continue to enjoy the Holiday Season and plan to spend time with our families creating lasting Holiday memories, we are reminded that there are families who will not be so fortunate. One such group is our service members serving overseas and will miss the Holidays with their families here in the US. Our Clark High School Interact Club as their international service project, has put together care packages for our military and are sending them out as I write.

Another very sad situation is the rise of homeless in our city. Many residents are unaware that hundreds of homeless and homeless families are living underground in the sewer systems. Our city of Las Vegas is located in the Las Vegas Valley in the Mojave Desert, with the Spring Mountains surrounding the area which creates a unique issue. During the monsoon season of January and February, the heavy rainfall causes flash flooding that city planners countered by constructing an extensive labyrinth of storm sewers beneath the very streets that constitute some of the most expensive real estate on the planet.

The Las Vegas City Council has attempted to so something. An ordinance was passed making it illegal to sleep or camp on the streets if shelter beds are available. This ordinance will start being enforced next year. When Sheriff Joe Lombardo recently spoke at our club meeting and was asked about the homeless condition, he responded that his officers would ask the homeless if they wanted to go to a program or shelter. Oftentimes, the answer was no. Maybe the new ordinance will help guide the less fortunate to programs offered by many churches, civic organizations and get referrals from entities such as the Salvation Army. We can hope and do something ourselves by volunteering our time to help. Many Rotary Clubs have service projects that assist with the groups mentioned.

On a more positive note, another successful Santa Clothes this year, our 24th. Chair Jim Hunt, with co-chairs, Tom Krob and Randy Donald gave our club, surrounding clubs, other corporate entities, non-profits, friends and family members the opportunity to shop with the kids and bring Holiday joy in their lives! There were so many wonderful stories of the kids, the volunteers and all who had a part in such a wonderful and happy event! My personal thank you to all who participated and can’t wait for our milestone 25th year!

1.2 million dollars spent on clothing for 5,307 children in need!

Jackie Thornhill
President
Las Vegas Rotary Club

Sergeant at Arms Rose Falcoco joins Bob Werner in exchanging banners with our guest from Lahaina, Hawaii.

Rotary member Major Randy Kinnaman made an announcement that Rotary had won the Salvation Army can drive by 30,000 cans in outdoing the Kiwanis Clubs again.

President Jackie presented our speaker Mark Hall-Patton with our Share What You Can Award.

PP Jim Hunt presented President Jackie with a check for $18,000 towards Santa Clothes from the Ralph Engelstad Foundation.

Our new President Elect PEE Mike Ballard was joined for lunch by two of his four children.

Larry Tomsic Returns

Holiday Party Magic

Holiday Party Ladies

Holiday Party Committee

Carey Grohs introduced her son Gaven.

Breakfast with Books

Annual Meeting with the Kiwanis Clubs

Chair Jim, Jimmelle and the Kids

Clark Interact Club

Santa Clothes at UNLV

The Kids at JC Penney

Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting:  November 27, 2019

Mark Hall-Patton is the Museums Administrator for the Clark County museum system, where he oversees the Clark County Museum, the Howard W. Cannon Aviation Museum, and the Searchlight History Museum. He has been with Clark County for twenty-three years, and was previously the Director of the San Luis Obispo County Historical Museum in California. He has worked for both public and private non-profit museums, and has consulted with numerous start-up and established museums and museum boards.

He is a MAP surveyor for the American Alliance of Museums, and the author of four books, over 450 published articles, and has written and produced 48 local history videos. In 2009, he hosted a live interview program on CCTV television in the Vegas valley, and is regularly seen on the History Channel’s Pawn Stars as a visiting expert. He has also appeared on American Restoration, United Stuff of America, America Facts and Fallacies, 10 Things You Don’t Know About American History, Vegas PBS, TMZ Sports, CSPAN 3, Mysteries at the Museum, Hoarders, ABC’s 20/20, PBS, and the BBC Radio World Service.

In addition to 14 years as a Board member of the Nevada Museums Association, where he served as President from 2000-2002 and 2008-2010, he has served on the California Association of Museums and Western Museums Association boards. He is a member of the board of the Nevada Test Site Historical Foundation, and the Nevada Aerospace Hall of Fame. He has been in the museum field for over 40 years, having also worked with museums in California and South Dakota. He holds a BA in History from the University of California at Irvine, and did graduate work in Museum Studies at the University of Delaware.

He is married to Dr. Colleen Hall-Patton, professor of Sociology and Women’s Studies at UNLV, and they are the parents of Joseph Hall-Patton and Ellen Messenger-Patton.

Dear Rotarians,

As we get closer to the Holiday Season and year end, it is time to reflect on the things that have gone well in our lives and the things that have not gone so well. Even though it is oftentimes easier said than done, we should view the “not gone well” as learning experiences. For me, my many friends and family members, Thanksgiving is the time to reflect on both. Thanksgiving is one of only two or three times each year that most extended families come together. Despite all the deafening noise that surrounds us each day, this day we can tune it out and focus on the good that also surrounds us.

This is my favorite time of the year. I find myself counting the blessings of our Rotary club membership, our local service and social events, the kids whose lives we effected, our international projects, active duty and veterans support and more. I look so forward to the remaining biggest event of our Rotary year, Santa Clothes.

Today, we will happily give the funds our club has raised, along with our partner service club, Kiwanis, to the Salvation Army to help refill their food bank. The food bank provides needed assistance for our city’s homeless and less fortunate. This is the 65th year our clubs have joined in this effort!

Tomorrow, many of our city’s residents will volunteer in shelters, outreach centers, and charitable kitchens to make sure that as many people as possible will be celebrating the holiday in some way.

How did all this get started? Were the Pilgrims at Plymouth Rock the actual first Thanksgiving? This story is what most of us learned in school. Even though it was not known as Thanksgiving at the time, it truly was a three-day feast shared with the local Native American tribe and the remaining colonists at the time. Subsequently, various versions were celebrated by the states, and the end of the American Revolution as designated by George Washington. Abraham Lincoln finally in 1863, at the height of the Civil War, in a proclamation entreating all Americans to ask God to “commend to his tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife” and to “heal the wounds of the nation.” He scheduled Thanksgiving for the final Thursday in November. It was celebrated on that day every year until 1939, when Franklin D Roosevelt moved the holiday up a week in an attempt to spur retail sales during the Great Depression.

Thanksgiving is not without controversy either. I will let those of you who care, look that up. I prefer to wish the Rotary Club of Las Vegas, the happiest of Thanksgiving holidays complete with all the wonderful food, fellowship and family memories. See all of you at the JC Penney’s of your choice for Santa Clothes and our Holiday Party that evening.

Jackie Thornhill
President
Las Vegas Rotary Club

Tina Bishop led us in song.

Sergeant at Arms Deb Granda joined Bob Werner in exchanging Banners with a visitor from Scotland.

Rene Gamero was joined for lunch with his brother.

President Jackie presents our speaker Donna Foley Mabry with our “Share What You Can Award”.

President Jackie presented a District banner to PP Jim Kohl for taking 3rd place in Rotary Giving.

PP Jim Hunt and President Jackie displayed the check for $56,700 that will be given to JC Penny’s for Santa Clothes.

Marie Walsh gave our invocation.

Jordan Micev missed the Joker but doubled his money with a $10 bill.

Jaime asked each of us to contribute $50 to the canned food drive.

Francesca Gilbert presented our club with $1,500 check for our canned food drive.

Bill Houghton brought us up to date on Team Leadership Camp.

Barbara Billitzer won the Lawry’s Bucks.

At President Jackie’s head table were our speaker Donna Foley Mabry, Jerry Engel and Diane Clary.

Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting:  November 21, 2019

Dear Rotarians,

This past weekend was the 30th Annual District 5300 Peace Conference at Treasure Island. A big Thank you to all who attended and worked hard to increase the attendance. We had around 260 participants which included several attendees under 18. The speakers were amazing and the breakout sessions very informative and at times created profound sadness as well as inspiration.

I want to discuss the breakout session that created the profound sadness. The session dealt with the worldwide epidemic of human trafficking. The two speakers were from an organization called Destiny Rescue. The organization works primarily in Asia where children in many cases are unknowingly placed into the commercial sex trade by their own families. Using their own personal experiences as a motivation to help children, Destiny Rescue team members spend countless hours observing, building trust with the victims and even posing as potential customers. This strategy has great success in stealing them away from this tragic life. But it does not end there. The rescued are given counseling, job training skills, education, healthcare and more to get them reintroduced to society, feeling safe and cared for. The success stories are a beacon of hope.

Back at home in Las Vegas, our city deals with nearly the same tragedy. Our city, depending on what stats you read, ranks about number 7 on the list of US cities with human trafficking.

Some profoundly sad statistics:

What is happening to combat this victimization of our children? LVMPD has not had created a task force. The Southern Nevada Human Trafficking Task Force partners with local, state and federal agencies, local non-profits, faith-based organizations, businesses and community members to address all forms of human trafficking. Thankfully, we have local authorities who are recognizing the need and have responded accordingly.

Back to Destiny Rescue. This organization works internationally where law enforcement agencies may or may not help. Is there anything we, as Rotarians can do to help? Yes, we heard in the breakout session that it takes only $1500 to rescue one victim. Those of us at the Peace Conference discussed the possibility of our 25 Club creating an international service project to rescue one victim. How amazing would it be for the 25 Club to have their local service project, the Canned Food Drive in the first half of the Rotary year and an international service project, perhaps become a Destiny Rescue Partner, in the second half of the Rotary year?

Jackie Thornhill
President
Las Vegas Rotary Club

We were honored with the Palos Verdes High School ROTC Presenting the Colors.

The colors were retired and group picture taken.

Ted McAdam recognized all members who served in the military.

Ted McAdam led with the invocation and the Air Force Song.

President Jackie presented our speaker General David Snoddy with our “Share What You Can Award”.

Pete Samuolis won the the Lawry’s Bucks.

Marie Walsh was joined by John Ingeme, her brother.

Kim Nyoni reminded us of our wine to water event.

Jerry Sennes missed the Joker.

Janice Lencke discussed our annual fundraiser.

Deb Granda and our Sergeant at Arms Rose Falocco gave an update on our holiday party.

Dan Adamson was recognized with a fine for an article in a real estate publication.

Carey Grohs was joined by her husband Chuck for lunch. Just back from FIJI.

At President Jackie’s head table were Stacey Snoddy, Ted McAdam and our speaker General David Snoddy.

Las Vegas Rotary Club Meeting:  November 14, 2019