Makeup Meetings

Rotary has a (loose) attendance requirement. Many of our members try to maintain 100% attendance records, and quite a few attain that each year!
 
Our Co-President, Dave Mount, made up a meeting while on vacation. He Joined the Cancun Bicentennial Club. They are a "sister club" to Burlington and they sent two of their officers to Vermont about 10 years ago to form a relationship. He has gone there to visit at east once a year ever since. 
 
This is one of the MANY international relations and travel opportunities that Rotary offers to members!
 
Makeup Meetings 2024-11-18 05:00:00Z 0

Welcome New Members

This fall we welcomed two new members: Gary Scott and David Jacobs! Both of these gentlemen bring passion and dedication to the "Service Above Self" efforts of our club! The photo below shows our Co-Presidents Phiona Atuhaire and Dave Mount (left) with David and Gary (on either side of our banner, along with District Governor Kelly Drew (right)
 
Welcome New Members Diana Wood 2024-11-12 05:00:00Z 0

Wood 4 Good

There's a saying that goes “Chop your own wood and it will warm you twice”. That doesn't really apply for us Rotarians that volunteered at the Chittenden County wood bank on a cool Saturday morning this November. The work we did with Wood 4 Good will benefit other Vermonters that need wood to keep warm this winter. 
Wood 4 Good Diana Wood 2024-11-10 05:00:00Z 0

Sailing for Crohn's with our Sister City - Honfleur, France

Rotary Sailing for Crohn Awareness 
 
We were happy to host a wonderful get together with our sister Rotary Club from Honfleur, France. A special thanks to all who made this event possible here in Burlington, Vermont USA.
 
This special event was joint effort by Burlington Rotary Club and Burlington-Honfleur Sister City with Honfleur, France Rotary Club made this initiative possible. The inspirational film shown on June 16th at the Community Sailing Center. "Sailing with Crohn's" is an inspiring film about Pierre Louis, an international sailing racer, who is raising awareness about the Crohn's disease by sailing around the world. One of his stops was Burlington, VT! We wish him a safe and wonderful journey. Pierre Louis 's story is one of hope.
 
 
Bon voyage!
 
Sailing for Crohn's with our Sister City - Honfleur, France Diana Wood 2024-05-07 04:00:00Z 0
Interested? "CHECK OUT OUR BI-MONTHLY CLUB MEETING" Ed Murphy 2024-05-01 04:00:00Z 0
Burlington Rotary Responds 2023-08-08 04:00:00Z 0

We are at the Chace Mill for the Summer!

For the Summer,
our 5:00 PM meetings for Tuesday
July 9, July 23,
August 13, and August 27
 
will be at the All Learners Network conference room
- within the Chace Mill
One Mill Street - on the Winooski Riverfront
 Burlington Side, East Entrance.
We are at the Chace Mill for the Summer! Ed Murphy 2023-06-21 04:00:00Z 0
Rotary District Conference at Jay Peak 2023-05-03 04:00:00Z 0

New Veteran Member Welcomed!

Veteran Rotarian John Tapper re-ignites his community involvement by joining Burlington Rotary.
We are fortunate to bring a man who's served Rotary in the past, and has now re-joined,
anxious to provide innovations, working toward completing our service related activities!
New Veteran Member Welcomed! Ed Murphy 2023-04-10 04:00:00Z 0
Rotary 100 Year Resolution 2023-03-27 04:00:00Z 0
New Rotary Members 2023-02-10 05:00:00Z 0
Brett Johnson receives first challenge coin! 2023-02-10 05:00:00Z 0
Feeding Chittenden 2023-01-29 05:00:00Z 0
First Meeting at Community Sailing Center 2023-01-25 05:00:00Z 0
Salvation Army Bell Ringing for the Holidays 2022-12-31 05:00:00Z 0
Burlington Rotary President serves as the Honorary Consul to France 2022-12-18 05:00:00Z 0
Rotary District Governor Visit 2022-12-02 05:00:00Z 0
Supporting Wood4Good  2022-11-23 05:00:00Z 0
Inaugaration of Champlain College's new President 2022-11-23 05:00:00Z 0
Volunteering for Intervale Gleaning 2022-10-31 04:00:00Z 0
The Morning Drive Interview with Burlington Rotary President and Vice President 2022-09-14 04:00:00Z 0
The Burlington Rotary Welcomes International Exchange Student 2022-09-14 04:00:00Z 0
Summervale 2022! 2022-09-07 04:00:00Z 0
WOKO Interview with Burlington Rotary President and Vice President 2022-08-10 04:00:00Z 0
CELEBRATING OUR 100th ANNIVERSARY THIS FALL! 2022-07-11 04:00:00Z 0
"JUNETEENTH" 2021! Ed Murphy Reporting 2021-06-19 04:00:00Z 0

Medical Mask Distribution Update!!!

Posted on Mar 16, 2021
MASK DELIVERIES
TOTAL 52,000!! 
Our energetic Club-member teams have come together to fully distribute our allocations of high-quality disposable, KN95, and washable cloth masks to key, local service organizations.
Check out the results...
For a total of 10,000 to CHC!
Medical Mask Distribution Update!!! EJM 2021-03-16 04:00:00Z 0
Burlington Rotary Foundation Celebrates Completion of Renovated City Hall Park EJM 2021-02-26 05:00:00Z 0

Our Foundation Continues Flyin' Ryan Support

Posted on Feb 06, 2021
Peter Hawks (l) receives the donation on behalf of the Foundation from President Jack
Continuing our efforts to support a special group of youths, Rotary gives to keep the "snow fires burning" - assuring that the mission of Flyin' Ryan soars on and on.
Our Foundation Continues Flyin' Ryan Support EJM 2021-02-06 05:00:00Z 0
Former Burlington Rotarian Selected to Head the V Foundation Dan 2020-12-22 05:00:00Z 0

Ringing the Bells for Salvation Army 2020

Posted on Dec 19, 2020
Our crew put on the Rotary bibs once again...
 
to help out the local chapter, filling all the spots for the day.
In these tough times, all our shifts reported that the shopping public was SO great in supporting the "Bucket Brigade".
Ringing the Bells for Salvation Army 2020 EJM 2020-12-19 05:00:00Z 0

Neither Rain, Snow or Covid -19 stops Burlington Rotary Club

Neither rain, snow or Covid-19 stops Burlington Rotary Club members from ringing the Salvation Army bell during the holiday season.  Past Rotary Club Presidents, Dan Feeney (L) and Scott Baldwin (R) joined twelve other members on Saturday, December 19, 2020 on the Church Street Marketplace to raise dollars for a worthwhile organization.
Neither Rain, Snow or Covid -19 stops Burlington Rotary Club Dan 2020-12-19 05:00:00Z 0

BETA Technologies - "Electric Flight"

Posted by EJM on Nov 24, 2020
           
 
TODAY: We were blown away with the incredible innovations in ELECTRIC powered flight going on right in our County.
We welcome Blain Newton, CFO/COO and his presentation of cutting edge, and soon to be practical, non-fossil fuel air travel!!!
 
BETA Technologies - "Electric Flight" EJM 2020-11-24 05:00:00Z 0

Burlington Rotarians Split Wood for a good cause

On Sunday afternoon, five Burlington Rotarians along with some spouses and friends, split five cords of wood for the Wood for Good organization located in Jericho, VT.  The team worked four splitters from noon until 3pm and realized how the Axelrod family of Jericho is providing much needed wood to fellow Vermonters this winter to heat their home. Past President Scott Baldwin left and Current President Jack Lindley right break a sweat on a beautiful Sunday afternoon.
Burlington Rotarians Split Wood for a good cause Dan Feeney 2020-11-08 05:00:00Z 0
Covid 19 - Masks support Greater Burlington YMCA Dan Feeney 2020-09-21 04:00:00Z 0

Deputy Commissioner Bill Carrigan - New Legislation

Posted on Oct 08, 2019
The Securities Division of the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation has new regulatory guidance to help interested parties intervene in potential securities fraud and abuse, as it relates to the consumer.
 
Deputy Commissioner Bill Carrigan - New Legislation Ed Murphy 2019-10-08 04:00:00Z 0

Canadian Exchange Folks ARE HERE!

Posted by Ed Murphy, Reporting on Oct 08, 2019
Burlington Rotary Hosts Scott Baldwin, Ed Murphy and Peter Hawks welcome Rotarians from the Calgary, Alberta Clubs. Visitors are getting the flavor of Burlington and the region this week. Many activities and fellowship opportunities are scheduled this week October 8 through the 12th. Dave Mount and Ute Regan are also helping to drive the visitors to and from these events.
Canadian Exchange Folks ARE HERE! Ed Murphy, Reporting 2019-10-08 04:00:00Z 0
Deb Richter, MD and Healthcare Reform in VT EJM 2019-09-24 04:00:00Z 0
Bicycle History in Vermont - With Luis Viviano EJM 2019-09-10 04:00:00Z 0
Club Retreat --  Lake Mansfield Trout Club Ed Murphy, Reporting 2019-09-09 04:00:00Z 0

Mohamed Basha RN CMC of TLC Homecare

Posted on Aug 27, 2019
 

Mohamed is the President, CEO and IT Person of TLC Homecare & Nursing. After moving from Chennai, India as a young child, he lived in New York City and New Orleans for a year. He finally settled in Vermont, where he grew up in Burlington.

Mohamed Basha RN CMC of TLC Homecare EJM 2019-08-27 04:00:00Z 0
Ken Mirvis "Travels Down The Mississippi" EJM 2019-08-13 04:00:00Z 0
Burl. City Arts: "Festival Of Fools"  Service Day EJM 2019-08-02 04:00:00Z 0
SunnyVale at Intervale!   Event EJM 2019-07-25 04:00:00Z 0
Kirby Dunn - Homeshare Vermont EJM 2019-07-23 04:00:00Z 0

Good News, Bad News, and Emerging Issues From Our Traffic Prosecutors

Posted on Jul 12, 2019
 
"There is no such thing as an "accident" when a person is under the influence. It is a crash."
So is the position of our prosecutors in the pursuit of a safer environment for all drivers in Vermont!
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Heather Brochu (l) and Stacy Graczyk(r)
In our first meeting of the new fiscal year we are fortunate to have Attorneys Heather Brochu and Stacy Graczyk from the Vermont Traffic Safety Prosecutor's Office (a Division of the State's Attorney's Office).
Good News, Bad News, and Emerging Issues From Our Traffic Prosecutors Ed Murphy 2019-07-12 04:00:00Z 0

We Begin The New Year And WE WILL BE  BUSY

Posted on Jul 09, 2019
We begin our 2019-2020 Rotary year with a "hazy, hot and humid" July 9 meeting.
>>But the content was clear!
President Scott Baldwin (above) jumps right in with the schedule of events which include
our first Board meeting on the 17th (open to all members),
Dismas House sign-ups for the year,
Our outreach meeting on Thursday, July 25: Sunnyvale Concert" at the Intervale Farm,
With an early follow-up service at The "Festival of Fools" support for the City (Friday, August 2),
 
Then! look for  additional August and fun September events.
See you on the 23rd as well, when we welcome Kirby Dunn of Homeshare Vermont with some earth shaking updates!
Don't get left behind. E-mail our Coordinator Jesse Beck for more info and to sign up today.
We Begin The New Year And WE WILL BE  BUSY Ed Murphy 2019-07-09 04:00:00Z 0
State's Attorney Sarah George Surveys Chittenden County's Case Load Ed Murphy 2019-06-25 04:00:00Z 0
June Officer Changeover and Club Retreat (OK, ITS A PARTY!) Ed Murphy 2019-06-18 04:00:00Z 0
Two Great R.Y.L.A. Candidates for 2019!!! Ed Murphy 2019-06-14 04:00:00Z 0
Burlington Fire Chief: Steve Locke - Our Public Safety Resources In Play Ed Murphy 2019-06-11 04:00:00Z 0
Rotary International Convention 2019 & Ute Regan Ed Murphy 2019-06-10 04:00:00Z 0
Club Assembly Plans 2019-2020 Year Ed Murphy 2019-05-28 04:00:00Z 0
VT Secretary of Commerce Confirms Strengths and Challenges of our VT Economy Ed Murphy 2019-05-14 04:00:00Z 0

Outreach: Our "Crew" Helps the Crew at the Community Saliing Center

Posted by Ed Murphy, Reporting on May 09, 2019
story thumbnail
A sprightly bunch of Rotarians bust out of the meeting room, and down to the Lakeshore to clean up the warehouse of the Burlington Community Sailing Center -- just in time for staff to make available the huge, space for the Community Fun-Run events happening inside and outside the Center right after!
Outreach: Our "Crew" Helps the Crew at the Community Saliing Center Ed Murphy, Reporting 2019-05-09 04:00:00Z 0

Yessss!  ROTARACT CLUB Installed In Greater Burlington!!!

Posted by Ed Murphy, reporting on Apr 25, 2019
 
The Rotary Clubs of Burlington, Burlington "Sunrise" and South Burlington combine to install a brand new Rotaract Club in our area. With a dozen University of Vermont students coming forward to take on the challenge and create their own fun and important projects. Guided by our memberships, and some "seed money" thus begins our commitment to the collegiate and newly-minted community leaders in our area! At the sunny twilight ceremony at the Hilton, a few of the new Rotaractors and their Rotarian partners posed below.
Thanks to Presidents Joe Gaida, Burlington; Eric Hanson, Burl. Sunrise; and George Donovan, S. Burlington; for pulling it together this year.  We especially thank Joanne Pencak (far right.) who is our UVM Business School college liaison and mentor for this Rotaract team.
Yessss!  ROTARACT CLUB Installed In Greater Burlington!!! Ed Murphy, reporting 2019-04-25 04:00:00Z 0
Vermont Council on World Affairs - (World Leaders Begin in Vermont) Ed Murphy 2019-04-23 04:00:00Z 0

"One More Grand" to our Friends at Flyin' Ryan Foundation

Posted on Apr 23, 2019
story thumbnail
On behalf of the Flyin' Ryan Foundation, our own Rotarian, Peter Hawks (c) accepts a third annual check, this time for $1,000.00,
in fulfillment of Burlington Rotary's selection of the Foundation as a major recipient of funds from our charitable activities.
 
"One More Grand" to our Friends at Flyin' Ryan Foundation Ed Murphy 2019-04-23 04:00:00Z 0

Presenting the 2019 "H2H" Report

Posted on Apr 09, 2019
Fresh off the 2019 tour, coordinator Linda Gilbert reports to the Club on the effects of Burlington Rotary's continuing material support to Hands to Honduras -Tela.
 
Presenting the 2019 "H2H" Report Ed Murphy 2019-04-09 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary Road Trip: A Pre-Opening Tour

Posted by Ed Murphy, reporting on Apr 01, 2019
Burlington Rotary Members at the door of the connector to
the existing hospital are bathed in a flood of light as we enter
the world of the new Miller Expansion at The UVM Medical Center!
Rotary Road Trip: A Pre-Opening Tour Ed Murphy, reporting 2019-04-01 04:00:00Z 0
A Foundation for Community Ed Murphy 2019-03-26 04:00:00Z 0

APPRECIATION as well as RECOGNITION

Posted on Mar 18, 2019
The Burlington Rotary - 2019 Police Recognition Awards Luncheon
Monday, March 18 at 12 Noon at the Hilton
One of the largest audiences ever, attended the Joint Burlington Rotary - Burlington Police Dept. Awards Luncheon
APPRECIATION as well as RECOGNITION Ed Murphy 2019-03-18 04:00:00Z 0
Feb 26 Meeting Brings: The Mayor and City Elections, Our Club Elections, and Rotary Speech Contestants Ed Murphy 2019-02-26 05:00:00Z 0
T J Donovan, A.G. - Man of many Missions!  Ed Murphy, Reporting 2019-02-12 05:00:00Z 0

"Tela" Team is On Site!

Posted by Ed Murphy on Feb 10, 2019
A tropical rainstorm allowed the Vermont Rotarians and the local Tela Honduras Rotarians a moment to duck inside one of the new structures to take a break --and a quick pic!
Look for the latest report when our members return soon. (Like Dave Mount fr.rt.)
 
"Tela" Team is On Site! Ed Murphy 2019-02-10 05:00:00Z 0

USS Vermont  (SSN 792)  to Join US Fleet!

Posted on Jan 22, 2019
 
Representing the VERMONT(SSN 792) Commissioning Committee,
we welcome Chairperson Debra Martin, and husband Steve Martin (below)
who have brought their enthusiastic update on this key asset to be added to
our national defense sometime soon in early 2020!
USS Vermont  (SSN 792)  to Join US Fleet! Ed Murphy 2019-01-22 05:00:00Z 0

ECHO Center Continues to "Wow" With New Content

Posted on Dec 11, 2018
We welcome Dr. Phelan Fretz Exec. Dir. of the Leahy Center for Lake Champlain at ECHO.
Even at the moment he was summarizing the activities and plans of the Center, the Current "Innovation Playground" December extravaganza was in full swing.
ECHO Center Continues to "Wow" With New Content Ed Murphy 2018-12-11 05:00:00Z 0

Ben Bosley - Mediation and "Rotary Peace"

Posted by Ed Murphy Reporting on Nov 27, 2018
Ben Bosley - of Pinnacle Resolutions (Mediation in the work place)
Ben, in his disarmingly mellow sweater, was our guest to present his business. Which along with his introduction brought the news that he is affiliated with Mediators Beyond Boarders (MBBI). They have partnered with Rotary International connecting Rotary Peace Fellows, Rotarians, like us and perhaps our new Rotaractors in establishing mentoring , dispute resolution and the promotion of peace. OK, so now our ears perked up!
Ben Bosley - Mediation and "Rotary Peace" Ed Murphy Reporting 2018-11-27 05:00:00Z 0

Burlington Rotary:
A 100% Paul Harris Fellow Club

Posted on Nov 15, 2018
At the snowy November 13 meeting, a furry, but smiling under that, Ed Murphy receives a 100% Paul Harris Fellow Club banner, on behalf of the crew from District Governor Larry Vars. (Banner originally awarded at the District Conference November 1, 2018 -- but ceremony kept on ice until this day.)
 
With 165 Paul Harris Fellows, including every active member of the Club, Burlington becomes one of the first in District 7850, and in all of Vermont to attain that level of historic commitment to the Rotary Foundation, of Rotary International.
Burlington Rotary:A 100% Paul Harris Fellow Club Ed Murphy Reporting 2018-11-15 05:00:00Z 0

District Governor Bears Gifts, Message!!!

Posted on Nov 13, 2018
We finally got our schedule set and were visited by District 7850 Governor Larry Vars. The Burlington Club got in there as his 41st of the 41 clubs in the District to be honored by he, and his wife, Joan.
Along with the 2018-19 Banner, "BE THE INSPIRATION" neckties (what are those?) were handed out to President Joe and key officers who would dare to wear them. (Actually they're pretty sharp with Rotary Blue.)
District Governor Bears Gifts, Message!!! Ed Murphy Reporting 2018-11-13 05:00:00Z 0

Multi-Club Meet-up Presents Grant to the "Y"

Posted by Ed Murphy, reporting on Nov 01, 2018
 
Pres. Joe Gaida (r), District Gov. Vars (3r), with presidents and officers of the cooperating clubs, present the joint and matching grant check to beaming, and bow-tied Burlington YMCA Executive Dir. Kyle Dodson only hours before the "Ground Breaking" of the new facility on College Street.
(Below) Burlington Rotarians Sarah Sprayregan (UVM Foundation, c) and Ute Regan (3l ) chat with members of the Sunrise,South Burlington, Essex and Col-Milton Clubs prior to the joint meeting. (Which was great.)
 
Multi-Club Meet-up Presents Grant to the "Y" Ed Murphy, reporting 2018-11-01 04:00:00Z 0

"H2H" Grant Transferred Today!

Posted on Oct 31, 2018
Dave and Fran Mount dropped by the Charlotte-Shelburne-Hinesburg Club. And with CSH club President Eric Kolomaznik looking on, we presented our $4,000 check to our regional "Hands to Honduras" coordinator furthering Burlington's commitment to getting teams on site for continued construction and operations.
For more, see our September 25 posting!
 
"H2H" Grant Transferred Today! Ed Murphy 2018-10-31 04:00:00Z 0

Restoring "Incremental" Control to Downtown Businesses

Posted by Ed Murphy on Oct 09, 2018
 
After introduction by President Joe Gaida (r), Burlington Rotarian Springer Harris (Teucrium Trading, LLC) presented a targeted appeal to review the current state of Burlington's Downtown Business District, and to consider the options for change, including the return of more control of incremental funding -- and decision-making -- to the actual businesses operating in the District.
 
Has so much control passed to City government that its businesses haven't gotten their money's worth? Can more say in the spending improve what the downtown looks like? Many say - YES!
Restoring "Incremental" Control to Downtown Businesses Ed Murphy 2018-10-09 04:00:00Z 0

Club Cooperation = IMPACT!

Posted by Ed Murphy, reporting on Oct 09, 2018
Chip in $1,000.00 of Burlington Rotary's Foundation money-- nice.  Add $1,000.00 each from our fellow Clubs in Burlington, South Burlington, and other Rotary's in our Mini-District--Well, that's great! But when our good friends at the South Burlington Rotary Club get this matched with a District Grant...
                 NOW THAT'S $9,000.00+ OF IMPACT.
 
Members of our Club, and others, will join together at the South Burlington Club Thursday, November 1 at 7:30 AM for the presentation.
We're keeping our new "Y" in downtown Burlington!
Club Cooperation = IMPACT! Ed Murphy, reporting 2018-10-09 04:00:00Z 0

Burlington Rotary Grants $4,000.00  to "Hands to Honduras"

Posted by Ed Murphy, reporting on Sep 25, 2018
That's Right - Once Again! Burlington Rotary has continued its multi-year commitment to materially fund the "Hands to Honduras" project, with February, 2019 funding, and person-power.  As evidenced below, a recent team with many Rotarians, including Burlington Rotarian David Mount (Recent owner of Westaff Employment, top 3rd from r.) and his wife Fran, (top 7th from r.) put real people on-site in order to continue to improve lives in the Tela, Honduras region.
Burlington Rotary Grants $4,000.00  to "Hands to Honduras" Ed Murphy, reporting 2018-09-25 04:00:00Z 0
Jeff Mongeon "DealerPolicy" Ed Murphy 2018-09-11 04:00:00Z 0
"Learning. Living. Giving. Engaging." Ed Murphy 2018-08-28 04:00:00Z 0
We're Going to the Game Folks! Ed Murphy 2018-07-24 04:00:00Z 0
Jesse Beck - 2018 Burlington Rotarian of the Year Ed Murphy 2018-07-01 04:00:00Z 0

BREAKING NEWS! New Meeting Times - New Attitude

Posted on Jul 01, 2018

AFTER 95 Years (roughly), Burlington Rotary now meets every...

2ND and 4TH Tuesday Morning of Each Month

Call to Order: 7:30 A.M. / Adjourn: 8:30 A.M.
First Morning Meeting: Tuesday July 10, 2018
It is now the goal of the Club to gather twice for "classic" meetings and then add one service project (or fun fellowship) date each month. Our Club calendar will soon be updated for scheduled events.
--Worldwide 2018-2019 Theme--
BREAKING NEWS! New Meeting Times - New Attitude Ed Murphy 2018-07-01 04:00:00Z 0

Ute Regan in Toronto For Rotary International Convention

Posted on Jun 25, 2018
 
A picture of the opening moments of the AMAZING 2018 Rotary International Convention in Toronto Canada!  Taken by our on-the-scene member/reporter Ute Regan. We await her full report when she gets back to Town!
Ute Regan in Toronto For Rotary International Convention Ed Murphy 2018-06-25 04:00:00Z 0

Thanks President Peter!

Posted on Jun 18, 2018
At a well-attended meeting for 2018, our Strategic Director Tim Cope "retires the gavel" to outgoing President (and incoming Treasurer) Peter Jones, after a tumultuous and hard-fought term. His work is MUCH appreciated and we Burlington Rotarians all know the time Peter invested to keep the Club on an even keel, and advocating a new active service outlook as we now move into our new Rotary regimen for 2018-19!
Thanks President Peter! Ed Murphy 2018-06-18 04:00:00Z 0

2017 Bell Ringing

Posted on Dec 09, 2017
Jack Lindley (State Farm) and Ed Murphy (CPA A.M.Peisch) man one of the many Burlington Rotary shifts for the Salvation Army Bell Ringing project. The season was warm... and so was the giving attitude of our community!
2017 Bell Ringing Ed Murphy 2017-12-09 05:00:00Z 0

VT SKI + RIDE EXPO GOES DOWNTOWN

Posted on Aug 10, 2017
 

Winter Starts on October 7. Expo Tickets on Sale Now!

Reserve your spot at Vermont’s biggest pre-season ski party, the VT SKI + RIDE Expo. 
Tickets on sale here! 

Burlington, VT — July 26, 2017: Vermont’s first winter sports show, the VT SKI + RIDE EXPO is coming back to Burlington this year, October 7-8, with a new location: the downtown Burlington Waterfront Hilton Hotel. 

Vermont’s premiere winter sports show, VT SKI + RIDE Expo is being put on by the Rotary Club of Burlington for a second year. It benefits the Flyin’ Ryan Foundation and is presented by title sponsor, Vermont Ski + Ride Magazine. Additional sponsor support comes from University of Vermont College of Medicine, Farrell Distributing and Long Trail Brewing.

Last year, more than 1,000 people showed up for the inaugural EXPO, many coming from as far as Boston, Albany and Hartford just for the event. The EXPO welcomed more than 50 exhibitors—ranging from emerging Vermont brands such as WhiteRoom skis and Powe. Snowboards to ski resorts such as Stowe, Sugarbush and Smuggler’s Notch, apparel companies such as Ski the East, ski shops and more. Ski films showed round the clock and experts hosted talks on topics ranging from sports medicine to the latest trends in boot fitting.

“It was a huge coming together of everyone in the ski and board business,” says Rotary’s Jesse Beck. “Pretty much everyone will be there, bringing with them bargains and some never-seen new gear.”

This year, a whole new line-up of exhibitors is expected, along with the top returning brands. “We’re welcoming new apparel brand Orsden as well as shops such as the Alpine Shop and SlopeStyle Ski & Sport, Sugarbush Resort, organizations such as the Catamount Trail Association and more,” says Beck. “It’s going to be an even better event than last year.”

What can you look for at this year’s EXPO?

  • THE LATEST GEAR. Major ski shops will be there showcasing what’s new for 2017/18. Plus, see what brands such as Volkl, Marker, Powe. Snowboards and others have on tap for this year and check out great bargains on last year’s equipment.

 

  • RESORT NEWS & DEALS: Vermont’s major resorts will be present and ready to showcase what’s new for 2018 and the latest deals on lift tickets and passes.

 

  • MOVIES, TALKS & CLINICS: See the latest releases from Matchstick Productions, Ski the East, TGR and others. Learn backcountry tips, bootfitting techniques and more at top clinics that will be going on all day.

 

  • BEER & MUSIC: Long Trail Brewing is just one of our many sponsors. Drink up and listen to rockin’ blues of The Dog Catchers and other live music acts.

All proceeds from this event support the charitable works of the Burlington Rotary and the Flying Ryan Foundation. “We want this show to celebrate the passion for freeskiing and principles that my son Ryan lived by,” says Peter Hawks, referring to freeskiing legend Ryan Hawk’s Principles of Living, which the Flyin’ Ryan Foundation promotes. “And we hope to get more people excited about what skiing and riding here in Vermont can offer.

This is the first consumer ski show of the season not just in Vermont, but anywhere on the East Coast“ says VT SKI + RIDE editor Lisa Lynn. “So if you want to get the inside scoop on gear and what’s going to be happening on snow in 2017/18, it’s the place to be.”

All proceeds from this event support the charitable works of the Burlington Rotary and the Flyin’ Ryan Foundation. “We want this show to celebrate the passion for freeskiing and principles that my son Ryan lived by,” says Peter Hawks, referring to freeskiing legend Ryan Hawk’s Principles of Living, which the Flyin’ Ryan Foundation promotes. “And we hope to get more people excited about what skiing and riding here in Vermont can offer.

“You’re going to see some very cool new things at this show “ says VT SKI + RIDE editor Lisa Lynn. “Some of the most innovative products in the winter sports market have come from Vermont brands.” She adds: “With 18 alpine, 30 Nordic resorts and with more than 3 million skier and rider visits annually, Vermont is one of the top three states in the country for skiing and riding.”

“We are modeling this after the Boston Ski Show expect about 5,000 in our first year,” says Beck. “The show is happening at a time when there are more than 40,000 students in Vermont and it’s prime foliage season,” he notes.

For more information: lisa.lynn@vtsports.com. For booth and event set up, contact Delaney Management at delaneymeeting.com

 

ABOUT US:

The Rotary Club of Burlington is a part of an international charitable organization comprised of professional and business leaders whose goals are humanitarian service, high ethical standards and the promotion of international goodwill and peace. Rotary’s motto is “Service Above Self.” www.burlingtonvtrotary.org.

The Flyin Ryan Foundation’s mission is to EXPOSE adventurers to Ryan Hawk’s Principles for Living, INSPIRE adventurers to craft their own set of core principles for living and to ACT on their core principles as the means through which they shape their attitude and engage in life. It does so through working with schools, individuals and organizations and awarding scholarships. To date, the foundation has awarded 84 adventure scholarships which are designed to encourage the pursuit of passion in the face of financial need.

VT SKI + RIDE Magazine has been covering the Vermont ski and ride scene for more than 12 years. Locally-owned, it is now a glossy, quarterly magazine with more than 100,000 copies distributed annually in Vermont and around New England. www.vtskiandride.com

VT SKI + RIDE EXPO GOES DOWNTOWN Jesse Beck 2017-08-10 04:00:00Z 0
Happy Birthday Rotary! 2017-02-23 05:00:00Z 0

VT Ski + Ride Expo Oct 1 & 2

 
 
 
Burlington, VT — August 18, 2016: It’s official, no matter what the forecasters say, winter starts on October 1. “That’s when we inaugurate the ski season here in Vermont with one big weekend-long party,” says Rotarian Peter Hawks, “and it’s called the Vermont SKI + RIDE Expo.” Tickets go on sale on Tuesday, Aug. 23 via the Flynn box office and information on show hours, ticket pricing and schedules is here.
 

The first winter sports show in Vermont, VT SKI + RIDE Expo is being put on by the Rotary Club of Burlington as a benefit for Hawks’ Flyin Ryan Foundation and presented by title sponsor,Vermont Ski + Ride Magazine. Additional sponsor support comes from University of Vermont College of Medicine, Farrell Distributing and Long Trail Brewing.

For the weekend of October 1-2, the Sheraton of South Burlington will be the scene of ski films, the latest ski and ride gear, demos, a beer tent, bands and lots of new gear. More than 50 exhibitors will occupy the space, bringing with them bargains and some never-seen 2017 gear.

 

Burlington Rotary President Springer Harris outlines the reasons you can’t miss this:

  • TOP GEAR. All the major ski shops —Outdoor Gear Exchange, Pinnacle Sports, Ski Rack and others will be there showcasing what’s new for 2017. Plus, see what brands such as Volkl, Marker, Renoun, J Skis, Powe and others have on tap for this year and check out great bargains on last year’s equipment.
  • RESORT NEWS & DEALS: Nearly all of Vermont’s major resorts will be present and ready to showcase what’s new for 2017 and the latest deals on lift tickets and passes.
  • MOVIES, SLACK LINES & CLINICS: See the latest releases from Matchstick Productions, Ski the East, TGR and others. Learn backcountry tips, bootfitting techniques and more at top clinics that will be going on all day.
  • BEER & MUSIC: Long Trail Brewing’s beer tent will be pouring limited release Flyin’ Ryan and a host of other brews. Drink up and listen to The Dog Catchers and other live music acts.

And there’s a fourth reason: All proceeds from this event support the charitable works of the Burlington Rotary and the Flyin’ Ryan Foundation. “We want this show to celebrate the passion for freeskiing and principles that my son Ryan lived by,” says Peter Hawks, referring to freeskiing legend Ryan Hawk’s Principles of Living, which the Flyin’ Ryan Foundation promotes. “And we hope to get more people excited about what skiing and riding here in Vermont can offer.

“You’re going to see some very cool new things at this show “ says VT SKI + RIDE editor Lisa Lynn. “Some of the most innovative products in the winter sports market have come from Vermont brands.” She adds: “With 18 alpine, 30 Nordic resorts and with more than 3 million skier and rider visits annually, Vermont is one of the top three states in the country for skiing and riding.”

“We are modeling this after the Boston Ski Show expect about 5,000 in our first year,” says Harris. “The show is happening at a time when there are more than 40,000 students in Vermont and it’s prime foliage season,” he notes.

VT Ski + Ride Expo Oct 1 & 2 2016-08-29 00:00:00Z 0

Trout Club

We decided to get out of town and head into the mountains for our weekly meeting. Couldn't have asked for a better night. Highlight was Dan and Scott earning $500 for the Rotary Foundation by jumping into the cold lake.
 
Trout Club 2016-06-06 04:00:00Z 0

Hosting the 20th Annual BTV Police Awards Luncheon

Presented by Springer Harris, President of the Burlington Rotary Club, On May 23, 2016 at the Queen City Police Foundation Awards Luncheon.

On behalf of the Burlington Rotary Club, I am honored to host the fine men and women of the Burlington Police Department. Hosting the annual awards ceremony has been a tradition of our club for over 20 years; when I became president just under a year ago, I immediately started looking forward to this event.

When I started thinking about what I wanted to say today, I knew I wanted to learn more about what it was like to be a police officer. Someone on NPR told me to read “The Job” by retired NYPD officer Steve Osborne so, I did, and I learned a lot, but it wasn’t nearly enough. I decided to ask the Chief for permission to do a ride along, to which he obliged. Before I knew it, I found myself sitting in the bullpen on a dreary Saturday evening waiting to be picked up by my officer for the night. I had no idea what to expect; I was nervous and excited to say the least.

The five hours that I was able to spend with Officer Darren Kennedy were the most interesting and thought-provoking five hours I have ever had in this city. We raced up Pearl St. with the lights and sirens blaring. We transported a prisoner to the jail. We arrested an individual on an outstanding warrant. We patrolled the city and we talked A LOT! But, the most important thing I did was get a glimpse of what being an officer was like at a very personal level. I already knew Burlington was one of best cities in America but what I didn’t know was that we were protected by what must be one of the finest police forces in the United States. We are truly blessed.

This is not an easy time in our country’s history to be a police officer. Cameras are everywhere and the court of public opinion carries more weight than it should. Our own community has criticized the fact that we have an overwhelming young police force. I on the other hand think that is an amazing statistic that should be celebrated. I am the youngest ever president of a 93 year old organization.I know there are many more men and women my age who plan to join me in leading this city into the future and our young officers are key components of this. We, as young men and women, are no longer the future of Burlington- in fact, we are Burlington.

So back to my mission of learning what it was like to be a police officer. What did I learn? What I really learned was that I have no idea what it is like to be “on the job” and I never will. I have no idea what it is like to pack on 25 pounds of gear of and hit the street on foot for eight to ten hours. I have no idea what it feels like to kiss my family goodbye after only seeing them for 15 minutes, not knowing if it is going to be the last time. I have no idea what it is like to wrestle with someone on the street. I have no idea what it is like to run into a building while everyone else is running out. I have no idea what it is like to bring someone back to life using Narcan. I have no idea what it is like to see the tragedies that you see every day and night just to start over again tomorrow. I have no idea what it is like to make split second, life and death decisions, that will ultimately be judged by our entire community. And I have no idea how you courageous men and women do it every day.

What I do know is I am so thankful that you do it. I am so thankful that when you were young kids and you said you wanted to be police officers that you actually did it. I am so thankful that you continue to come to work every day and night to protect us at your own sacrifice. Today is your day to celebrate your fellow officers and for us to give you thanks. On behalf of the Burlington Rotary Club, and from the bottom of my heart THANK YOU! Thank you so very much. Please enjoy the ceremony and stay safe out there.
 
 
 
 
Hosting the 20th Annual BTV Police Awards Luncheon 2016-05-24 00:00:00Z 0

Mark Redmond, Executive of Spectrum, Receives Paul Harris Fellow.

The service above self-award is a new tradition for our club and is  based on our club motto but also what the fine men and women of the Burlington Police Force do every day. Putting service above self. To commemorate this award the Burlington Rotary club has secured the highest honor a Rotarian can receive – The Paul Harris Fellow Award. It is named for our founder, Paul Harris, a Chicago lawyer who started Rotary International with three business associates in 1905.

The award is secured by donating $1,000 to the rotary foundation in the recipient's honor. The Rotary Foundation is the number 3 nonprofit in the world made up of a global network of Rotarians who invest their time and money into priorities such as promoting peace, fighting disease, supporting education, providing clean water and growing local economies. The funds we contribute to the foundation support the global efforts of Rotarians for three years and then are reinvested back into our local Burlington community

The first Paul Harris Fellow was given in 1957 and there are now over a million worldwide. Rotarians often designate a Paul Harris Fellow as a tribute to a person whose life demonstrates a shared purpose with the objectives of the Rotary Foundation and in this case the Burlington Police Department. That mission is to stop crime before it happens and make Burlington a safer and more prosperous city. Today we have the honor and pleasure of recognizing Mark Redmond, Executive Director of Spectrum Youth and Family Services, as he becomes the world’s newest Paul Harris Fellow.

Mark, thank you for all you have done for this city since you arrived in 2003. Our desire is to give the Service above Self award to a community members who indirectly makes the lives of the men and women of the Burlington police force better and there is no doubt in our mind that you accomplish this mission every day.

It gives me great pleasure to present to you the two emblems of appreciation given to a Paul Harris Fellow - - certificate and pin. Please accept our congratulations and sincere thanks, for your commitment to our common goals of world peace and a safe and prosperous Burlington Vermont.  
 
 
Mark Redmond, Executive of Spectrum, Receives Paul Harris Fellow. 2016-05-24 00:00:00Z 0

Salute Military Golf Association

Our speaker was Jerry Shanahan of the Salute Military Golf Association of Boston. Take a look at the below websites. Amazing story and even more amazing photographs and videos of our nations wounded veterans playing golf and others raising funds to support them.
 
 
The Salute Military Golf Association (SMGA) Boston is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation whose mission is to provide rehabilitative golf experiences and family-inclusive golf opportunities for post 9/11 wounded war veterans in an effort to improve the quality of life for these American heroes. SMGA Boston also offers our programs to veterans from all wars. 
 
SMGA’s Support for Post-9/11 Wounded Veterans: The SMGA believes the rehabilitative benefits of golf can improve the mental and physical condition of each and every post-9/11 wounded warrior. The SMGA provides golf instruction, equipment, and playing opportunities for post-9/11 wounded veterans.
 
SMGA’s History and Inspiration: The SMGA was founded after Jim Estes, Director of Instruction at Olney Golf Park in Olney, MD, saw first-hand the positive effects the game of golf could have on combat-wounded soldiers. The following articles from ESPN.com tell how several trips from Walter Reed Army Medical Center to Olney Golf Park eventually evolved into a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation aimed at supporting injured veterans.
 
Salute Military Golf Association 2016-05-09 00:00:00Z 0

Corporal Krystal Wrinn from the BTV Police Department

We had a wonderful but lightly attended meeting yesterday. Our speaker was Corporal Krystal Wrinn from the BTV police force. She is a seven year member of the force and was recently selected from the chief and the mayor to fill a new role solely focused on preventing domestic violence. We learned that there are more than 2,000 call to the BTV police station to report domestic violence and even at that level it remains one of the most underreported crimes in the city. Domestic violence calls are also the most dangerous for a responding officer. Statistics show they are the most deadly call for US officers. Corporal Wrinn is dedicating her life to reducing domestic violence in our city and is committed to taking her role even further to expand to the county and potentially the state.
 
As a follow up to her visit I would like to remind the club that we will have our Police Recognition Lunch on Monday May 23rd. I would like to have a good showing of Rotarians at this meeting. Leo has put in a significant amount of work in revitalizing our partnership with the Queen City Police Foundation. We want to remain committed partners with them in this event. As a result of our conversations we are going to be more prominently featured in the materials of the event and will have a larger role in the event itself. We are coordinating with the police to ensure that there are officers, Rotarians and community members at every table. I am likely going to participate in a “Ride – A – Long “ experience with and officer and use it as my introduction to the event. We are also going to present a Rotary Paul Harris Fellow to a community member who makes significant impact in helping the police and reducing crime. That name will be released soon
 
Corporal Krystal Wrinn from the BTV Police Department 2016-04-25 00:00:00Z 0

Vermont Children’s Trust Foundation (VCTF)

Our program was by Michelle Asch, board member of the Vermont Children’s Trust Foundation (VCTF).  She explained the projects, the grant process, and the impact the foundation has throughout the state.  Each child and each story demonstrates what a difference the projects make.  
 
Vermont Children’s Trust Foundation (VCTF) 2016-04-18 00:00:00Z 0
VT Ski + Ride EXPO Planning Session 2016-04-12 00:00:00Z 0

BTV Ignite

Our guest was Michael Schirling, former police chief and new Executive Director of BTV Ignite. Mike joined us to present some of what we already knew and a lot of what we didn’t. We all know that Burlington is an amazing place and people should be falling all over themselves to live. What we didn’t know is that BTV Ignite is the organization working to make that happen. Their mission is to work with other tech cities around the country and apply the lessons learned to make Burlington one of the most desired places in the country for tech firms to set up shop. Our fiber internet infrastructure is one of the main assets that makes this possible. BTV Ignite will link together schools, colleges, businesses, nonprofits and city utilities to form a coalition to put more jobs and training in place and therefor cement Burlington as the “Queen City of Tech”. I just coined that. They should use it.  As a young professional who wants to make Burlington work for my family and everyone else’s I am excited that Mike is in this role. I can’t wait to see his accomplishments in action.
 
BTV Ignite 2016-04-11 00:00:00Z 0
Burlington Rotary to Give Water Contribution to VT 1070 Project 2016-04-05 00:00:00Z 0

Pure Water for the World Month

On ( 04.04.16 ) we kicked off Pure Water for the World Month. Over the course of April we will collect cash donations for water and other beverages. We do this to remind the club how easy it is for us as Americans to obtain safe, cheap and abundant clean water. However, we know this is not the reality that much of the world's population finds itself living in. 
 
In addition to the Mount's we will be joined by some members of VT's Pure Water for the World including one of our own. Hanna Fisher, Dave’s Daughter, will give us a short presentation on the benefits our collection during the month of April provide. 
 
Dave and Fran Mount joined us along with Linda Gilbert of the Charlotte-Shelburne club who along with her husband run the Hands to Honduras- Tela program that we have been collaborating with since 2008. Dave and Fran have traveled every year but once since 2008 and it sounds like at least 6 other Rotarians and their children have been down at one point or another. Mandi and I have continued to discuss wanting to go down. While in Honduras the volunteers work on infrastructure needs of the Tela community including hospitals, schools, and bathrooms. But they do more than that. They run dental clinics and Fran leads a scholarship fund to help students travel to the high school so that they may get an education past the 6th grade.

The work that they are able to do on our behalf as a result of our clubs financial contributions are astounding. I agree with the group that we need to create a way of getting this wonderful message out to the public including to groups such as the young professional’s club whom have already shown interest in participating in this type of service. If this is something you can do for us please let me know and I can tell you have we have done to date.
 
Please visit Hands to Honduras website and spend some time learning about what we have accomplished down there. It’s fantastic. Pictures are great too. 
 
Pure Water for the World Month 2016-04-04 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Celebrates St. Patrick's Day In Style

We had a fabulous night at the Flynn last night. Thank you to everyone who came out and a big thanks to Dave Mount for organizing. This was my first trip to the Flynn and first time experiencing Irish music. I must say I think I am now a fan of both! We raised $4,150 half going to the Flynn and Half to our club. 
 
 
A good crowd. 
 
 
Great Food
 
 
New Friends 
 
 
Fellowship
 
 
Meet the band! 
 
 
A huge round of applause for Dave Mount. A great event. Thank you for organizing. 
 
Rotary Celebrates St. Patrick's Day In Style 2016-03-25 00:00:00Z 0

Spectrum Sleep Out

 
Our good friend Mark Redmond visited us to talk about the Spectrum Sleep Out and the tremendous fundraising success it has been. We do not have any members sleeping out this year but if you know someone who is consider supporting them. The contributions Spectrum makes to our community are so vast they couldn’t be quantified.
Spectrum Sleep Out 2016-03-22 00:00:00Z 0

Karen Newman

Our speaker was inspirational keynote speaker, Karen Newman. This will be a wonderful program! Karen is a world class triathlete and inspirational speaker.  Check out her web site: Thekarennewman.com to learn more.
 
Karen Newman 2016-03-14 00:00:00Z 0

UVM Medical Center Update with Special Guest Don Sinex & Kesha Ram

Today’s speaker team was comprised of Brian Boardman and Dr. Frank Ittleman. They provided us some insight in the upgrades that the UVM medical center plans to start making this year. In summary, we have a cutting edge hospital that must contend with the challenge of housing itself in a 50’s era facility. To allow the great people of UVM medical center to provide the service they are capable of a new building is a must. One of the most important aspects of the upgrade will be individual patient rooms that will allow for families to visit in comfort and allow the UVM staff to preform procedures right in the room as they are in many other hospitals. Brian and Frank both shared stories of their immense connection to the hospital and how they motivated them to successfully get the project to this point. Over the course of the last six months Brian has raised $10 million to get the project started. This huge effort on many peoples part will surely affect each and every one of us at some point
.
 
We were also visited by Don Sinex. He gave us an update on the Mall and encouraged everyone to attend an upcoming city council meeting where they will be discussing the future of the project. 
 
 
Michael Tsang informed us of the signature dance show Shen Yun Performing Arts on Chinese dance and Chinese culture that will be at the Flynn on May 7. He presented to us about their organization last year and returned to invite us all to the next show.
 
 
Kesh Ram visited as well to tell us about her campaign to become Lt. Gov of VT
 
 
UVM Medical Center Update with Special Guest Don Sinex & Kesha Ram 2016-03-08 00:00:00Z 0

Classification Talk by Member Jake Hanley

On Leap Day the meeting program was a classification talk by Member Jake Hanley.  Jake is a recent transplant to Vermont from Connecticut, works for Peoples United Bank, and is a Past President of the Mystic, CT Rotary Club.  Jake told of his unusual story of going from being a history major to financial consultant.  All he had to do is "follow the money".
Classification Talk by Member Jake Hanley 2016-03-01 00:00:00Z 0

Burlington Airport Director Gene Richards

We had a great meeting on Monday. 
We were glad to be back in the newly renovated Sunset Room - new paint and the sun was shining. 
 
The room was filled with familiar and new faces.  Thank you to everyone who brought guests.  We have many good programs coming so keep inviting folks that you think would be a good fit with the club.[Let Springer or I know if you have questions about the membership application process.]
Gene Richards was joined by his colleagues Nick and Amanda who gave us a big picture overview of the direction of BTV.  The airport is a community asset and this was valuable dialogue to learn how they intend to generate more revenue, open up new services, and apply creativity to the systems in place. 
Burlington Airport Director Gene Richards 2016-02-29 00:00:00Z 0

Retired Lt. General Michael Dubie visits Burlington Rotary

The Burlington Rotary club was proud to host retired Lt. General and current President of Revision Military Technologies.  Prior to joining Revision in 2015, Michael served in the military for 36 years, including time as Deputy Commander of the United States Northern Command, where he was responsible for the air and land defense of North America, and Adjutant General for the state of Vermont from 2006-2012.. Michael spoke about national security issues, the F-35 fighter jet, and Revision Military Technologies.
 
 
During the talk, Rotarian Dan Feeney tried out one of Revision's helmets:
 
 
Retired Lt. General Michael Dubie visits Burlington Rotary 2016-02-01 00:00:00Z 0

Zac Fike - Purple Hearts Reunited

Zac Fike started and operates Purple Hearts Reunited. It is a nonprofit organization that rescues and returns purple hearts and other medals of honor to their rightful owners. Zac explained to us how disgusting it is that purple hearts are traded online like baseball cards for $100s or $1,000s each.  He spends almost all of his personal time purchasing these online and returning them to families. To date he has returned 150 medals but has close to 400 in his basement that need to find their owners. Not to mention he is spending close to $30K a year buying them online and receives 4-5 medals a week in the mail. He has had dogs dig them up, scuba divers find them, and even people who are metal detector enthusiasts. This passion started when he returned from his first tour of duty. He found that collecting military antiques soothed him after what he witnessed at war. His mother, the first female Drill Sargent,  gave him a Purple Heart she found at a shop. He knew right away he had to return it. Unfortunately, he was unable to do so before being deployed for a second time. It was during this deployment that he received his own purple heart. That stoked the fire even more and Purple Hearts Reunited was born. When asked what the biggest challenge he faced was he without hesitation said funding. He estimates that he would need $60K a year to rescue all the medals that come to market and would need at least that much more to return them. It costs $1,500 to return each medal. The return includes him personally flying the medals in a frame to the family and hosting a ceremony. He has even slept in his car to save money. Zac loses sleep every night when he thinks about the fact that he knows he can return all the medals but that he just doesn’t have the time or money to do it. So how can we help?
 
Zac Fike - Purple Hearts Reunited 2016-02-01 00:00:00Z 0

Burlington Rotary ringing the bell for Salvation Army

Every year for the past several years the Burlington Rotary Club has assisted the Salvation Army with ringing the bell leading up to the holidays at its collection station at the Church Street Marketplace in downtown Burlington.  It is always wonderful to meet and interact with shoppers as we witness the awesome giving spirit of passers by.
 
Rotarians Dan Feeney and Scott Baldwin
 
Zoe Petersen (right), daughter of Rotarian Gordon Petersen, and her friend Clare Maxwell.
 
Rotarians Larry Brett and Sarah Sprayregen.
 
Burlington Rotary ringing the bell for Salvation Army 2016-01-19 00:00:00Z 0

2016 Rose Bowl Parade

 

The Rotary Rose Parade Float Committee’s Ninety Second Gift to Rotary

As Chair of the Rotary Rose Parade Float Committee, I am given the opportunity to promote that part of my life I call Rotary to the world in forty-five to ninety seconds. As Rotarians we change people’s lives and give them hope where there is none. Many times in order to achieve our goals we must find a way to have people of different backgrounds sit down at the table and negotiate a safe environment for our volunteers to work. This year’s entry will highlight Rotary’s efforts to create a more peaceful world.

Since Rotary returned to the Tournament of Roses Parade in 1980, the New Year’s Day pageant has become a highlight on the Rotary calendar. Seen in Pasadena by over 700,000 people, television coverage of the floral extravaganza reaches about 80 million more around the world, providing Rotary with the valuable opportunity to showcase our programs and activities.

“Be A Gift To The World” will be RI President, Ravi Ravindran’s theme for this year. The Rotary Rose Parade Float Committee is a gift to Rotary. Although the float is not a project of Rotary International, the success of the float is a tribute to the dedication of the Rotary Rose Parade Float Committee consisting of volunteer Rotarians from across North America. Our efforts, supported entirely by voluntary financial contributions from Rotary clubs across the United States and Canada, 2016 will make this the 37th consecutive entry in the Tournament of Roses Parade. The Rotary Rose Parade Float Committee is proud to provide this Rotary recognition campaign tool as a gift to Rotary International and the 1.2 million Rotarians who dedicate our lives to making a positive difference in that place someone calls home.

Yours In Rotary Service,
Walt Stephens,
2016 Rotary Rose Parade
Float Committee Chair

More Information can be found at: http://www.rotaryfloat.org/

2016 Rose Bowl Parade 2016-01-08 00:00:00Z 0

Rev. Peter MacLean served in the US Naval Reserve during the Viet Nam War

INVOCATION:  Peter Hawks shared how the ' Four Way Test' came to be. Interesting.
 
 
PAST PRESENTATION PLAQUE ... Co-Presidents Springer Harris & Elisa Mayes, presented outgoing President Bill Harwood with his well earned Past President's Plaque.
 
 
PROGRAM:   Rev. Peter MacLean served in the US Naval Reserve during the Viet Nam War. 
SPEAKER INTRODUCED BY:   Past President Bill Harwood introduced us to Rev. Peter MacLean. 
 
NOTES FROM SPRINGER ...I am going to take a stab at summarizing Peter's story but I know I cannot do it justice. Let me just start by saying I have never felt our room of Rotarians so memorized by a speaker before. There wasn’t a single peep in the room. 
 
Peter sat only a few feet from each one of us and made you feel every word. It was amazing. He was such a fantastic orator that he could move the emotions of the room from laughter to tears in mere moments of each other. It was an amazing moment to be a part of.
 
 
 
Let’s begin with stating that we were the first group to ever publicly have the honor of hearing Peter’s story. He was a young man of the church and was searching for more purpose on his life so he enlisted with the US Naval Reserve. He soon found himself in the midst of the Viet Nam Battlefied as a marine chaplain. Peter was no ordinary Chaplain. He entertained us with his stories of both ignorant and intentional insubordination.  He share his story of his work at the Buddhist refugee camp where he creatively found ways to increase their rations of rice. As Chaplain one of his jobs was to keep the moral of the troops high which could be done by getting ice for the beer. Unfortunately, being a battlefield chaplain also comes with the terrible job of looking after wounded and deceased marines. It was at this point we were all ready to break down in tears with Peter. There was plenty more to his story but I just can’t do him justice by repeating the details. To date, one of Peter’s favorite accomplishments was the time he spent as a volunteer firefighter.
 
 
Rev. Peter MacLean served in the US Naval Reserve during the Viet Nam War 2015-11-15 05:00:00Z 0

First Thursday Social @ Zero Gravity

Thanks for attending the Rotary Club first Thursday Social at Zero Gravity.  Here are a few pictures we took. 
 
Thanks to Springer for sharing your birthday cupcakes !!! 
 
 
Springer and Mandi Harris sharing the Birthday Cupcakes. 
 
 
The early group: Scott, Larry, Ed, Springer, Elisa, Eric and Peter. 
 
 
The late crowd: Dick and Len. 
 
 
First Thursday Social @ Zero Gravity 2015-11-09 00:00:00Z 0

Myers Waste and Recycling Recap November 2, 2015

 

PROGRAM:   Joe Sinargra from Myers Waste and Recycling. 

 
 
Joe is a self-proclaimed “loud Italian” and Director for Sustainability for Myers Waste and Recycling. He was able to educate us on some of the aspects of their family run business. The main take away from the discussion was to please consider using, and requesting that your contractors use, Myers for your construction recycling. Myers has the ability to take waste such as roof shingles, dry wall, brick, and wood and turn them into items such as asphalt, animal bedding, Quick Dry, and plywood. By using any of the other guys you are potentially sending your waste strait to the landfill. 
When choosing your family garbage hauler or a contractor who will have waste please consider using and requesting Myers, a local family business. If you want to learn more about ACT 146 contact Joe.
 
INVOCATION:       Thomas Melloni provided us a wonderful invocation.
 
President Springer as new leader and  motivator. He has found that leading the singing of 'America the Beautiful" will be one of his biggest challenges.
 
 
Last Thursday was our Fireman’s Award dinner.  Larry reported that along he shared dinner with Bill, Elisa, and Len. The dinner was a great night shared with a solid troop of politicians and more importantly some true local hero’s. We look forward to determining and shaping a future with this fine group of men and women. 
 
Myers Waste and Recycling Recap November 2, 2015 2015-11-05 00:00:00Z 0

Betsy Bishop of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce

Betsy Bishop of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce discussed the Vermont Chamber's Total Impact List, detailing the cost of legislation over the last few years. She has been traveling the state talking with Rotarians and Business Owners about what is going on in Montpelier and the impact it is having on our state and our businesses. We all appreciate the work that Betsy and her team are doing to make Vermont a better place to live and run a business. Her message about young people starting families not wanting to come to Vermont strikes home for many. Most eye-opening was her critique about the state's ability, or lack of, to count how many weeks are in a year. 
 
 
 
Rotarian Dave Mount introduced Betsy Bishop our guest speaker.
 
Betsy Bishop of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce 2015-10-21 00:00:00Z 0

Nancy Lawrence Celebrates Her 96th Birthday

Rotarian Nancy Lawrence celebrates her 96 birthday on Thursday. She has been a valuable member of the Burlington Rotary club since before women were offered membership. Long before she was the first female member of the club she was asked by her husband to assist in the secretary duties of the club. It was in this position she became an honorary Rotarian dedicated more than 40 years of her time to our club. She has seen so many wonderful people come through our doors. Nancy, we can not thank you enough for all that you have done for us! From us to you, have a wonderful birthday. 
 
Nancy Lawrence Celebrates Her 96th Birthday 2015-10-20 04:00:00Z 0
Paul Sayler of Zero Gravity Brewing speaks at the Burlington Rotary Club Meeting 2015-09-28 00:00:00Z 0

T.J Donovan speaks at the Burlington Rotary Club

Posted by Erik Sandblom on Aug 30, 2015
TJ outlined the problems with juvenile crime in the state, starting with high suspension rate in school and brining young people too young into our justice system when it becomes difficult to get them out of it.
He is running for Attorney General and outlined the issues:
  • High taxes and affordability of living in Vermont.
  • Driver’s License restoration.
  • The heroin addiction program, with long waiting lists at treatment clinics.  It costs the state $79,000 per prisoner a year.  
  • He advocated for involving nursing interventions for young people before they get involved with the criminal justice system. 
  • Campaigns in Vermont: they are too costly and not transparent.  Who are the donors?
Questions and Answers:
Ute asked about narcotics trafficking.  He reported that the authorities are reluctant to talk about the source, Brooklyn, and he wants to work with the New York State and federal authorities in the City.  The system needs reform.  
TJ also explained how most addicts start on the pain killer OxyContin and then move up to harder and cheaper drugs.  
The medical community should be more involved to help reduce the abuse of drugs.
 
A sobering presentation we all needed to hear.
T.J Donovan speaks at the Burlington Rotary Club Erik Sandblom 2015-08-31 00:00:00Z 0

Kelly Brush visits the Burlington Rotary Club

Posted by Erik Sandblom on Aug 30, 2015
Kelly invited us to her fundraising bike ride in Middlebury on Saturday, September 12.  She broke her spine is a ski accident and has since dedicated hers life to raising funds to pay for safety and other equipment for skiers with handicaps.  After ten years, it has become  national grant organization.
Kelly Brush visits the Burlington Rotary Club Erik Sandblom 2015-08-31 00:00:00Z 0

Reviving the Moran Generating Plant

Posted on Jul 19, 2015
Tad Cooke and Erick Crockenberg of New Moran, Inc., a non-profit steward of the Moran Plant, spoke at the Burlington Rotary Club Meeting.
 
They shared with us the process for redevelopment, including the financing, the environmental challenges, the program for the space, the parking plan, and the overall schedule.  New Moran will incorporate a market hall, a 1500-person capacity community event center, open office space, and 
a roof deck with spectacular views of the lake. The goal is to continue with permitting this year, begin construction in summer 2016, and open in summer 2017. 
 
To learn more and keep up to date: moranplant.org
Reviving the Moran Generating Plant 2015-07-20 00:00:00Z 0

Burlington Rotary Supports Pure Water for the World

Posted by Erik Sandblom on May 03, 2015
This Spring the Burlington Rotary Club presented Pure Water for the World with a check for more than $11,000 to support bringing clean water to Cite Soleil, one of the world's poorest slums located in Port au Prince, Haiti.  This contribution will help bring clean drinking water an area in desparate need.  For more information regarding Pure Water for the World's Cite Soleil project, click on the following link:  http://purewaterfortheworld.org/our-projects-cite-soleil-1000-homes.html 
Pictured are Carolyn Meub, Director of Pure Water for the World receiving a check from Bill Harwood, Burlington Rotary Club President
Burlington Rotary Supports Pure Water for the World Erik Sandblom 2015-05-04 00:00:00Z 0

Planting in City Hall Park

Posted by Erik Sandblom on May 03, 2015
The Burlington Rotary Club has supported the enhancement of City Hall Park for many years, including it's annual "planting in the park" each Spring to plant flowers.  This year our crew set aside its regular meeting time of Monday at noon to complete the planting followed by lunch in the park on a beautiful Vermont Spring day. 
Planting in City Hall Park Erik Sandblom 2015-05-04 00:00:00Z 0
Planting in City Hall Park by the Burlington Rotary Club Erik Sandblom 2014-05-03 00:00:00Z 0
Rotary District 7850 Training Assembly, March 29, 2014 Michele Boomhower 2014-03-30 00:00:00Z 0
Rotary Distrcit 7850 Michele Boomhower 2014-03-30 00:00:00Z 0

January 27, 2014 Rotary Meeting

Posted by Sam Jones
Image
A well-attended meeting chock-full of many announcements and updates regarding the myriad projects and accomplishments of service in which our club engages.
January 27, 2014 Rotary Meeting Sam Jones 2014-01-28 05:00:00Z 0

Meeting Recap 10/7/13

Posted by Erik Sandblom on Oct 06, 2013

Image

Today our speaker was Michael Tuttle, President and CEO of the Merchant's Bank.  Mr. Tuttle provided his perspective on the local economy, which is looking quite good!

Meeting Recap 10/7/13 Erik Sandblom 2013-10-07 00:00:00Z 0
Quote of the Week - Who Said It? Stuart Wichert 2013-04-02 00:00:00Z 0
Thought for the Week - Who Said It? Stuart Wichert 2013-04-02 00:00:00Z 0
Mark Your Calendars! Stuart Wichert 2013-04-02 00:00:00Z 0
January 13, 2014 Rotary Meeting Sam Jones 0
October 28, 2013 Burlington Rotary Meeting Re-Cap Sam Jones 0
November 4, 2013 Burlington Rotary Meeting Re-Cap Sam Jones 0

Meeting Recap 10/21/13

Posted by Sam Jones

Image

Our speaker was our very own Chapin Spencer who was recently instilled as the City of Burlington’s Director of Public Works.

Meeting Recap 10/21/13 Sam Jones 0

Security and Integrity of Your Data

Posted by Stuart Wichert
story thumbnail
ClubRunner secures all your private information using the latest security technologies. Hosted in a world class data centre with redundant power, Internet backbones and 24/7 security and monitoring, you can rest assured that your club data is safe and protected. Your members' contact information is secured behind unique logins and passwords. Access to information is also restricted, for example, a member can only view the list of members, but can modify his or her own personal information.

Data on the server is protected by TCP/IP filtering, firewall and anti-virus software that protect against any unauthorized intrusion. Backups of data are made daily and stored off-site.

Security and Integrity of Your Data Stuart Wichert 0
Integrated eBulletin for Easier Communication Stuart Wichert 0
Welcome to our new website! Erik Sandblom 0