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Thursday, September 27, 2018
VOL. NINETY FIVE,  Issue 13
 
JOIN US ON THE ROOF
 
 
Ned Morris - ShelterBox Response Team
As a consulting winemaker, Ned Morris’ day job is all about patience and predictability, and is often measured over the course of months and years as a wine ages. By contrast, when he’s not busy making Reasons Wines or consulting with wineries, Morris dedicates himself to a cause that’s all about immediacy and unpredictability, and is measured in the minutes and seconds that are the difference between life and death after a natural disaster rages.

Following his 10-day deployment to the ShelterBox headquarters in Cornwall, England, Morris became one of fewer than 40 ShelterBox Response Team members in the United States, and one less than 200 Response Team members worldwide. ShelterBox is an international disaster relief charity that provides temporary shelter and life saving supplies to displaced families.

“ShelterBox provides life saving aid by putting critical supplies directly into the hands of survivors, often in remote or inaccessible locations that palletized aid cannot reach quickly or effectively,” said Morris. “We work closely with organizations like I.O.M., the World Food Program, and the U.N. to coordinate efforts, and with our international Rotary clubs to help navigate government issues, safety, transportation, translation, and other potential obstacles.”

ShelterBox Response Teams are part of the final mile of delivery, distributing boxes on the ground while working closely with local organizations like FEMA, international aid agencies including the United Nations, and Rotary Clubs worldwide. Each ShelterBox typically contains a tent, water purification kit, blankets, solar lighting, tools, school kits, and other necessities to help a family survive after a disaster. The contents of a ShelterBox are tailored to the nature and location of the disaster.

Morris was first exposed to ShelterBox five years ago through his involvement with Walla Walla Rotary. His path to becoming a ShelterBox Response Team member has included literally hundreds of hours of applications interviews, and training over the course of more than a year. The process began with an online application that identified 300 candidates in North America, who completed a more thorough application to whittle the field down to 125 individuals. Following video interviews with ShelterBox headquarters, 80 people were selected to complete a rigorous four-day assessment. A total of only five candidates were selected from North America, and Morris is one of three from the United States.

“ShelterBox not only helps victims survive the hours and days immediately following a natural disaster, but also helps sustain them in the ensuing weeks and months as they pick up the pieces and start to rebuild their lives,” said Morris, who cited recent disasters including Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria, as well as the recent earthquakes in Mexico, as examples where time is of the essence when it comes to delivering aid. “The work we’re doing is time consuming, physical, and often emotional, but it’s also critical and I could not be more honored to be part of the ShelterBox Response Team.”

This week the club will  participate in the annual meeting of the Tacoma Rotary Foundation. Please plan to join their Board President Brett Thomas and pick up a copy of their annual summary. 

You have a challenge from our fabulous Literacy Committee.  Our dedicated group is once again checking off all of the items needed to receive yet another District Literacy Award. An item this year is asking clubs to donate two books per member to reading programs for children.  Our goal is 300 books from members to be matched by books from the committee enabling us to far exceed the goal.  Pick up a new or gently used book and bring it to the office or a meeting in the next few weeks.  Let's help encourage readers! 

OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE??

The lease on the Rotary office expires on February 28 and we are considering alternative arrangements. Our  plan is to make a decision by mid-December, allowing sufficient time if we need to organize a move.
We currently have about 2,000 square feet with a conference room, 3 workstations, a private office, a break room, restrooms and significant storage space. This is more space than is currently needed, but we do have a very reasonable rent.
If you are aware of office space that might be able to accommodate our needs please contact George Pilant at georgepilant@remax.net. George will lead a small task group who will narrow the options and present them to the board for approval by their December 17 meeting.
Mark your calendar for the first meeting at the Yacht Club on November 1.  We will be celebrating our veterans and will be joined by Chamber of Commerce members to honor their Military Citizen of the Year. This will be a popular meeting as always, and we know you all want to check out the Yacht Club.  You  will be hearing more from Robin Echtle about how to avoid the lines and enjoy smooth sailing to the Yacht Club. 
Membership Proposal
Unless written objections are submitted to the Board within 10 days of this posting, the following individuals will be invited to membership: 
 
Kierra Phifer
Energy Industry – Community Projects
Puget Sound Energy
Sponsor: Linda Kaye Briggs

FALL FIRESIDES

Our Fall Firesides are coming up on October 23.  Please consider being a host and sign up at our upcoming meetings.  This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with other members in a small group setting. Linda Kaye will be sure to provide us with a thought provoking question.

Nominations for the Nominating Committees
 
At the meeting on October 4 we will accept nominations for 6 members for the Board Nominating Committee. Please notify the office or another member to ask them to enter your name for consideration if you are willing to serve. If you have someone in mind to nominate you must have their permission in advance before you suggest their name. The 3 who receive the highest number of votes will join Carol Duris, Brien Elvins and Jeremy Fogelquist who are the appointed members on the committee.  We will also be calling for 4 nominees for the Officer Nominating Committee. They will join appointed members, Linda Kaye Briggs, Carolyn Weyrick, Mike Dunbar, Jace Dwinell and one additional Committee Chair who has yet to accept. 
 
If you would like to be considered for a club leadership position (President Elect Nominee, Treasurer or Board Member), contact the office.  We will maintain a confidential list of interested members and present that list to the nominating committees when they are in place.
Habitat Build 
We had another great crew out on September 15. Special thanks to volunteers Mike Dunbar, Linda Kaye Briggs, Stacey Ogle, Annie Ramirez, Tamara Williams as well as friends and family. They joined past and scheduled volunteers Kim Bedier, Jan Brazzell, Marsha Burns, Libby Catalinich, Carol Duris, Sally Glover,  Whitney Grisaffi, Michele Johnson, Cindy Niemi, Renata Ramirez, Debbie Regala, Greg Rolsma, John Schneider, Alex Trettin and Mark Anderson. Gil Quante  and Jim Whitacre  were there to  feed our great volunteers! Next build date is October 5 and there are still spaces left.  You can use this link to register.  There are also other dates available over the next few weeks to volunteer.  Use this link for a different date.  Here are other members  who  have signed up to participate in the build. 

Donate hotel size and full size toiletries


We support Tree House at MultiCare, YWCA, Nativity House Shelter, Salvation Army and other non profits as we are able.  Please donate your unused toiletries in full or small sizes.  We bring comfort and care to those experiencing a child's hospitalization or the homeless,  as well as families, veterans, youth and other individuals who are being rehoused. Bring your donations to a Rotary meeting.  Coordinated by Projects Committee member Maria Harlow  contact her at  Maria_harlow@outlook.com  if you have questions. 

VOLUNTEERS SCHEDULED TO HELP THIS WEEK
Reflection - Kirsten Willis
Greeter/Roving Mic - 
Board Greeter/Roving Mic - Marsha Burns
National Anthem & 4 Way Test - 
Fine Counter - Robin Echtle
Storywriter - Chris Serface
Introduction - Becky Fontaine
Meeting Sponsor - George Pilant
AV Assistant - Chris Serface
 
WANT TO HELP AT A MEETING?
Please contact Kathi to volunteer 
--Leading the National Anthem & Four Way Test
--Giving the Moment of Reflection
--Assisting with Audio/Visual
--Greeter and Roving Mic
--Sponsoring a meeting
 
Birthdays This Week 
 
Ed Danz - Sep 27
Lori Bemis - Sep 29
Maria Harlow - Sep 29
 
Anniversaries to Celebrate 
 
Maria Harlow - 10 years 
David Graybill - 35 years 
Dick Moe - 35 years 
ROAMERS
 
Mark Anderson - Tahoe-Douglas
Cynthia Darland - Sonoita, AZ
Pete Taylor - Princess Cruises
Maria Harlow - Tacoma North
Upcoming Socials
The Fellowship/Relationship Building Committee invites all members of Tacoma #8 to join them on Thursdays at 5 pm. These socials are a great way to meet some new Rotarians or catch up with old friends. Pandakas, these meetings will fulfill your "social" requirement prior to graduation and, for all members, it’s fun
 
September 27
Farrelli’s
5104 Grand Loop
Ruston, WA
 
October 4th
Red Star
454 St Helens
Tacoma, WA
 
October 11th
Thursdays at 5
Cole Graphic Solutions
Tacoma, WA
 
October 18
Lovino Ristorante
5101 N Pearl Street
Tacoma, WA
 
October 25
El Gaucho
2119 Pacific Avenue
Tacoma, WA
 
November 1
Cooks Tavern
3201 N 26th Street
Tacoma, WA
 
November 8
Thursdays at 5
Financial Insights
Tacoma, WA
 
November 15
Terry’s Office Tavern
3410 N Proctor
Tacoma, WA
Reflections from the 9-20 meeting by Stephen Deal
President Linda Kaye rang the bell at the start of the hour. Rick Oldenburg reminded us all of the power of words through an invocation that contained exactly 244 words, about as long as the Gettysburg address. We were reminded that “harsh words uttered can never be taken back” which is good advice for our time.
Chris Serface, of the Tacoma Little Theatre led us in the National Anthem followed by the 4‑Way test. Linda Kaye Briggs once again exercised her presidential prerogative and garnered support for the club through a $2 fine to be paid by members who had not helped with the Habitat Build. 
We signed a card being circulated for Cindy Grady, whose mother passed away. Anyone who has lost a parent can tell you that no matter how prepared you are it is always too soon and they will forever be in your heart.
Tamara Williams, Tacoma Living Local and Jan Brazzell, Advancement Consulting were busy running microphones around the room. Visiting Rotarians introduced themselves including Joe Schneider from South Hill, Alex Early from Gig Harbor and LaMarco Mitchell from Parkland-Spanaway. Members with guests stood and were introduced, including several potential new members. It is great to see so many Rotarians anxious to introduce their friends and colleagues to our club.
We took a moment to congratulate the Anniversaries for this week, including these people: Cosette Pfaff - 1 year,  Joy Vivar-Beeks - 2 years, Mike Shields - 7 years, Nurhan Karakas - 11 years and  John Winskill - 32 years.
Sally Glover of South Sound Care, our meeting sponsor, took advantage of her time at the podium by reminding us of the mission of South Sound Care Foundation.  She invited us to join them at their annual beer and bites fundraiser on Saturday, October 13, 2018 from 5-11 pm at the Narrows Brewing Company 9007 South 19th Street Tacoma, WA 98466.
Debbie Regala, of the Literacy committee, gave a special announcement. She recognized and honored Mark AndersonRusty Hersey, Gil Quante, and John Schneider for their incredible work helping to build and install little free libraries throughout Tacoma. Our Literacy committee is once again vying for the district literacy award, and we have a goal of gathering 600 children’s books in the next few weeks. Members are encouraged to bring in books so that we can once again win the award and more importantly provide children throughout our community with the opportunity to be a part of the wonders of reading!
Rick Oldenburg of Community Health Care made a special announcement. On October 9, Jim Walton, past city manager of Tacoma, and Sunrise Rotary Member, will receive the George Tanbara Humanitarian Award. Jim Walton is one of Community Health Care’s six founders and has a long history of other significant community contributions. He will be honored at an evening event on October 9th for all he has done for our community. There will be a social hour starting at 5:30 p.m. and program and dinner starts at 6:30 p.m. Rotary members hope to honor Jim by filling two tables. Contact Rick if you can come.
Monique Nadeau from MultiCare and Linda Kaye introduced the highly produced and entertaining video announcement of our 2019 GALA auction. The auction will be held March 30. Join us for intrigue, excitement and suspense as we engage in a “mission possible” to raise money for our club. Clearly, the actors in the video have a bright future in theater.
Annie Ramirez with the Salvation Army introduced our 3 incredible youth speakers, Jacob Christensen, Renata Ramirez, and Abby McDermott. Jacob Christensen, a 17 year old exchange student from Norway, gave us an entertaining presentation of his life. Clearly, he will fit in well in the Northwest with his love of sports and almost fluent English abilities. Inspired by his three grandparents to join Rotary youth exchange, we know that Jacob will have a great time and be an asset to Stadium High School and their golf team.  Renata Ramirez, from Club 4845 in Ascension Paraguay, regaled us with stories of life in South America. We learned that Paraguay is considered the Corazon of South America, and that while small and mighty has an international culture and a heart for family. Rotarians were particularly intrigued by the five meals eaten in Paraguay including breakfast, tea, lunch, merienda “the after lunch”, and a leisurely late night dinner. Abby McDermott came back to tell us of the time she spent as an outbound exchange student in Chile. Her trips to Easter Island and Patagonia stirred the wanderlust in many of us. As an ambassador for world peace, we are sure that Abby will become a leader. President Linda Kaye recognized the three young amazing people who are taking a risk in life and joining youth exchange. Linda Kaye also shared a recent encounter that Becky Fontaine had. In 1968 our club sent Drew Betz to Rotorua New Zealand on exchange.  Her dad, Jim Daulph, was a member of our club.  Drew credits Rotary for influencing her life in many ways, including helping her to become a great public speaker.  Drew had a chance to speak to the rebound weekend recently and was pinned by Becky with District 5020 Youth Exchange pin.  Blazers and pins were a thing back then.  Drew shared that in October she is going back to visit her old school, friends and of course Rotary for the first time in 50 years.  We exchanged flags with the three youth exchange students. With no time for True Confessions the meeting ended on time

A Thought for the Week from President Linda Kaye 

 

“Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” Oscar Wilde

 

 

Club Links
Finding a Club (In District 5020)
Find a Club (worldwide)
Rotary International - YouTube Video Clips
Sponsors
The Gearshift is a weekly publication to inform you about current happenings in the Rotary Club of Tacoma #8. We meet on Thursday at the Landmark Roof Garden Room, 47 St. Helens Avenue, Tacoma 
Noon - 1:00 pm
The Rotary Office is located at:
47 St. Helens Avenue, Ste. 200
Tacoma, Washington 98402

MAILING ADDRESS:
PO Box 1777
Tacoma, Washington 98401-1777

Phone:  253.473.7723
Fax:  253.473.7838
info@rotary8.org
www.rotary8.org
 
Office Hours
Monday - Friday
8:30 - 5:00
 
Speakers
Oct 04, 2018
Columbia Bank
Oct 11, 2018
Thursday at 5
Oct 18, 2018
View entire list
Upcoming Events
Community Service Grants Committee Meeting
Sound Options
Oct 04, 2018 7:30 AM
 
Literacy Committee
Red Elm
Oct 04, 2018
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
 
Membership Recruitment Committee
Meeting room before lunch
Oct 04, 2018 11:00 AM
 
Communications Committee Meeting
Landmark Rooftop 6th Floor (before meeting)
Oct 04, 2018 11:15 AM
 
PGG - Foundations
Rotary Office - After Lunch
Oct 04, 2018 1:00 PM
 
Programs Committee Meeting
Landmark on the Rooftop
Oct 04, 2018 1:00 PM
 
Projects Committee Meeting
KBTC TV
Oct 05, 2018 8:15 AM
 
Executive Committee Meeting
Knapps
Oct 09, 2018
7:00 AM – 8:30 AM
 
Classification Committee Meeting
Rotary office
Oct 09, 2018 11:45 AM
 
World Community Service Committee Meeting
Cole Graphic Solutions
Oct 18, 2018 7:00 AM
 
Executives & Directors
President
 
President Elect
 
Secretary 2018-2020
 
Treasurer 2017-2019
 
Immediate Past President
 
Board Member 2016-2019
 
Board Member 2016-2019
 
Board Member 2016-2019
 
Board Member 2016-2019
 
Board Member 2017-2020
 
Board member 2017-2020
 
Board member 2017-2020
 
Board Member 2017-2020
 
Board Member 2018-2021
 
Board Member 2018-2021
 
Board member 2018-2021
 
Board Member 2018-2021
 
Tacoma Rotary 8 Foundation Board President
 
Auction Chair
 
Classification Co-Chair
 
Classification Co-Chair
 
Communications Chair
 
Engagement Chair
 
Fellowship Chair
 
Finance Committee Co -Chair
 
Finance Committee Co-Chair
 
Grants Co-Chair
 
Grants Co-Chair
 
Interact Co-Chair
 
Interact Co-Chair
 
Literacy Co-Chair
 
Literacy Co-Chair
 
Membership Recruitment Chair
 
Military Affairs Chair
 
Pandaka Chair
 
PGG and Foundations Co-Chair
 
PGG and Foundations Co-Chair
 
Program Co-Chair
 
Program Co-Chair
 
Projects Co-Chair
 
Projects Co-Chair
 
Rotaract Chair
 
Rotary Youth Exchange Co-Chair
 
Rotary Youth Exchange Co-Chair
 
Scholarships Co-Chair
 
Scholarship Co-Chair
 
Vocational Services Co-Chair
 
Vocational Service Co-Chair
 
World Community Service Chair
 
Youth Protection Officer
 
Youth Services Chair
 
Fellowship, Leadership and Service Above Self since 1910