Rochester Rotarian since 1996, Norm Silverstein. Don Alhart interviews Norm touching on his recent retirement announcement as President and CEO of WXXI Public Media. Norm has led the organization since 1995. He has seen the organization grow from one television and two radio stations to a public media organization that now includes four public television stations, one cable channel for the city of Rochester, and six public radio stations.

The rise of partisan animosity—the tendency of Democrats and Republicans to dislike and distrust one another—is one of the most notable developments of 21st-century American politics. Jamie will discuss how animus influences a wide range of political behaviors including issue positions, evaluations of political leaders, support for compromise, and support for democratic norms. That said, he will also explain why the growth of partisan animosity does not inevitably mean that democracy is eroding.

Congressman Joe Morelle and his challenger, Gregg Sadwick, participate in a Rochester Rotary forum moderated by hall of fame broadcaster, Don Alhart.

Rochester Rotary's full Tuesday luncheon from 9/24/24 included an appearance by District 7120 Dave Demers (Spencerport Rotary) and a presentation by Judge John Ninfo II titled "The Deep Roots of Democracy"

Rochester Rotary's first meeting at its new home for Tuesday lunches, Comedy at The Carlson featuring guest speakers Mark Ippalito, Operations Manager of The Carlson, and Todd Youngman, stand-up comedian.

Tom has been a major equity shareholder, founding member, and/or senior leader with Vitamin Water, Bark Thins, Pirate's Booty, Momeez Choice, and several other businesses, most of which have gone on to be acquired by major food & beverage brands. Tom shares a few of those stories, including seeing Vitamin Water go from the start-up phase to the negotiation table with Coca Cola as well as finding a manufacturer with a unique idea for a chocolate snack that would lead to a sale to Hershey. Tom will share his insights on how businesses scale, the trials and tribulations involved in growing, and how they ultimately put themselves in a position to be acquired.

Award winning journalist Scott Pitoniak leads a panel of WROC-TV Sports Director Thad Brown and Rochester Rotary Prognosticator Tim Cook on the 2024 Buffalo Bills outlook.