Stories
CELEBRATING GARY MCELROY'S LEGACY
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SDDBR at Love Your Wetlands Day EventSan Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Joins in the Effort to Clean Up Mission Bay Wetlands
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Holiday Lunch Service at Senior Wellness Center
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SDDBR Secret Santa Project and FiestaSan Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Delivers Holiday Cheer to Es Por Los Ninos in Tijuana
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SDDBR Holiday Party 2023 |
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SDDBR Assembles Welcome Home Baskets |
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SDDBR at Armed Services YMCA Food DistributionSan Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Volunteering with Food Distribution At Armed Services YMCA
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Oktoberfest in Del MarSan Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Celebrates Oktoberfest At the Home of Alex Kwoka and Bob Semmer in Del Mar |
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Walk to End PolioSan Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Rocks the Walk!
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SDDBR Volunteers at TACO |
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Casas De Luz Tijuana Homebuilding |
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Happy Hour at Kansas City BBQ |
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Serving Breakfast at Veteran's Village Stand DownSan Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Serves Breakfast to Homeless Veterans at the annual Veteran's Village Stand Down
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Graduation at Rise Up Industries |
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President Martha's Demotion PartyOn Wednesday, June 28th, we celebrated outgoing club president, Martha Page, with a demotion party at Feast and Fairway at the Coronado golf course. |
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Vocational Service Day at the Chapman Collection |
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Rotary District 5340 Model UNSDDBR Club member, David Nokes, uses his professional background to describe the increasing amount of space debris that circles the globe.
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Melissa Chapman of Chapman's Collections Hosts San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Club for An Evening of DesignMembers enjoyed refreshments and each others’ company at a social event at Chapman Collections. We also became far more knowledgeable about Persian rugs, thanks to club member Melissa Chapman, host of the event, owner of Chapman Collections and expert in the intricacies of these glorious hand-produced carpets.
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STAND DOWN PICKS UP WHERE IT LEFT OFF WITH SDDB ROTARIANS DISHING OUT BREAKFASTAfter a two-year Covid break, Stand Down returned in-person Saturday and Sunday, July 30-31, to provide wrap-around services for unhoused veterans. San Diego Downtown Rotary Club members donned mandatory masks, aprons, and warm smiles to serve breakfast on both days. The club has been involved with Stand Down, serving breakfast, since its earliest days. Masks make it hard to identify all the volunteers, who were organized by super-scheduler Bobbi Spinner-Flack. Breakfast isn’t breakfast without bacon. |
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Rotarians Spotted at the Races on Opening Day!Rotarians Spotted at the Races on Opening Day”. Jim and Wendy bumped into one another at the Turf Club, both active members of SD Downtown Breakfast!
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INTERNATIONAL YOUTH SYMPHONY VISITORS ADD MUSIC TO OUR WEEKLY MEETING |
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SDDBR Club Creates Gifts for Women at YWCA's Becky's House Emergency ShelterRotarians at Work Day 2022. Rotarians around the globe and around Rotary District 5340 roll-up their sleeves for a morning of service to others. San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Club made gifts of live succulent arrangements to women at YWCA's Becky's House Emergency Shelter.
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San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Partners with the Rotary E-Club of San Diego to Bring Peace Pole to Balboa Park |
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Social Hour at Kansas City BBQFounding SDDBR Club Member, Martin Blair and his wife, Cindy, hosted our February Happy Hour, at their iconic venue, Kansas City BBQ. Social Chair Rich Rechif, Webmaster Tom Verburgt, Tina Verburgt, Past-President George Mullen, and Esther Mullen enjoy the delicious sliders, wings, and veggies.
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SDBBR Club Partners to Help Afghan FamiliesSDDBR Club partners with Golden Triangle Rotary in "Food Distribution Program to Vulnerable Families" in Afghanistan.
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SDDBR Provides Approx. $5,000 to Baja Orphanage Over the HolidaysCatherine's Children's Home is just 40 miles south of San Diego; Alex Kwoka's passionate caring for children reflects SDDBR Club's core values.
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Father Joe's Receives Donation from San Diego Downtown Breakfast RotarySDDBR Club's partnership with Father Joe's Makes the News! Read the full Union-Tribune article: San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Club's commitment to Father Joe's shines through. Rotary District 5340 matched $3,000 donated by SDDBR Club bringing the total donation to $6,000 for our Welcome Home Baskets. The Welcome Home baskets provide all the basic supplies needed when moving out of homelessness into a new apartment at Saint Teresa of Calcutta Villa. The baskets include pots, pans, sheets, towels, cleaning supplies, and much, much more. This is the second year that Community Service Committee has been awarded this District grant for this partnership with Father Joe's. Additionally, our club members wrote over 400 Welcome Home cards to be included in the baskets affirming our respect and support for each new resident. |
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San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Club Rocks the District 5340 ConferenceSan Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Club Rocks the District 5340 Conference at the Hotel Del Sept. 10-12 District Governor, Dan Gensler, joins SDDBR Club members Richard Bailey, Judith Mansfield, David Young, and Ann-Marie Bryan as they pose for a picture with spouses and friends. Not pictured here, but in attendance at the Wine Tasting PolioPlus Fundraiser: Tom Sayer, Judy Bambace, and Lynn Hamilton. This Friday night wine tasting event raised thousands of dollars toward the $1 million goal (in conjunction with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation) to help eliminate polio.
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Monthly "Social Hour" Gives Members a View of the CityClub Member Rich Rechif Shared VIP Access to His Rooftop Office with a Sunset Happy HourSocial Chair Rich Rechif hosted our SDDBR Club Monthly Happy Hour at his Balboa Asset Management rooftop offices and deck. Beer, wine, snacks, and a gorgeous sunset made the event a perfect way to end the day. Everyone kept taking in vistas from all four sides of the rooftop - it was a wonderful way to see the glory of our San Diego downtown region. We were treated to a view of our meeting home, the University Club at Symphony Towers, the remodeling of Horton Plaza, and various historic buildings. Rich is a third-generation real estate investment manager and so was able to provide much historical background about the porticos and other architectural features of the buildings around us. Thank you Rich! Judy Gallegos toasts the evening with SDDBR Club spouses Frimmel Smith and Ann Burton.Scott Carr, Kim Stewart, Linda Jalving, Mel and Judy Gallegos, and Roxanne Helstrom catch up on the latest downtown happenings. San Diego Downtown Breakfast Club Members' family and friends pose with the view.
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SDDBR Club Joins District 5340 at Petco ParkSan Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Club Joined District 5340 at Petco Park President Ann-Marie and Ken Bryan, District Governor Dan and Chris Gensler, District Chief Aid Don and Donna Fipps.
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Zooming or In-Person - We Are Back Together AgainEveryone's Back at the University Club - On Zoom or In-Person Members gather for coffee and a gorgeous view from 7:00 a.m. - 7:30 a.m. The program will start at 7:30 Club Foundation Board Member, Brian Matter; Founding Member Jim Mulvaney, and Past-President George Mullen are glad to be back together at the University Club each Wednesday.
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SDDB Rotary in UT Today! |
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SDDB ROTARY IN THE NEWS FOR CORONAVIRUS RESPONSETIMES OF SAN DIEGO just published an article highlighting San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary's $85,000 (and rising) contribution to seven local charities in the effort to combat the devastating impacts of the Coronavirus Crisis. Pictured are Robert Semmer and Gillian Semmer who are co-chairs of our Coronavirus Response Committee. (Note that they are wearing hand-made masks created by Pauline Lim-Endresen's team.) Click the link to read the article: HOW SDDB ROTARY IS HELPING DURING THE CORONAVIRUS CRISIS |
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A Special Visit from the R.I. PresidentOur club had the unique honor of having Rotary International President Mark Daniel Maloney visit us today. President Mark gave an inspiring talk about how "Rotary Connects the World." He is pictured here with Club President George Mullen.
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Serving Seniors On Christmas EveOur Community Service Committee, along with family and friends, served a nutritious lunch and sang holiday songs on Christmas Eve at Serving Seniors. Serving Seniors is a local non-profit that provides a broad array of health-promoting services to help seniors in poverty thrive despite their low incomes. |
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Canines Protecting Our BordersOfficers Marco Hernandez and Bryce Bence, from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, gave a fascinating presentation on the use of canines to sniff out contraband at our ports of entry. The star of the show was Ozzie the German Shepherd, who successfully alerted to drugs hidden in a suitcase (and then was promptly rewarded with a toy). |
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D.G. Marta Knight visits our clubIn a heartfelt and impactful presentation, District Governor Marta Knight (pictured with Club President George Mullen and Past District Governors Mel Gallegos and Scott Carr) laid out her vision for Rotary District 5340 in the Rotary year ahead. She proudly announced that in the past year, Rotarians provided 45 million volunteer hours, valued at $850 million. Ordinary people doing extraordinary things here at home and around the world.
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Billy Ray Smith Talks Chargers/NFL/LifeBilly Ray Smith gave the San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Club some great perspectives on the current state of the NFL, the loss of our Chargers, and other San Diego insights during his 30 minute Q&A Wednesday. Thanks, Billy Ray!
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Mayor Faulconer VisitsMayor Kevin Faulconer updated our Club today on the State of City of San Diego, leaving lots of time for questions and answers!
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Don Lang Memorial Tree Dedication Ceremony
Today a group of our Club members dedicated two trees to the memory of Don Lang. The trees are a Fern Pine and a Naked Coral and are located along Park Avenue near Morley Field Drive across from Roosevelt Middle School. Pictured above on the left of the Fern Pine are Bobbi Spinner-Flack, Gary McElroy, Dee Lang, Tom Sayer and Mary Dawe. On the right of the tree are Cindy Blair, Martin Blair, Mary Engles, Melissa Blackburn-Joniaux and Tom Fitch. Thanks to the Friends of Balboa Park for the service opportunity!! This year our Club has planted ~110 trees, or at least one tree for every active member.
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San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Club Member Joe Ciokon tosses Ceremonial Wreath off the flight deck of the USS MidwaySaturday, May 26th was a special day aboard the USS Midway! San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Club member Joe Ciokon tossed one of four ceremonial wreaths off the flight deck of the USS Midway, in commemoration of those lost or injured in battle. Rotary Club President Bobbi Spinner-Flack and President Elect Tom Fitch attended the Ceremony. “I know the true meaning of loss in combat,” retired U.S. Navy Command Master Chief Joe Ciokon told a crowd of hundreds who gathered at the USS Midway Saturday. They might have come from different generations, but veterans of World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam and the War on Terror came together to share stories of heroism, survival, sacrifice and remembrance. During the ceremony, they tossed four wreaths, symbolizing the four major American wars of the last 75 years. “We remember them with events like this, what sacrifice and service is. That’s the way we honor their memory is to talk about what they did,” |
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Students Rock the 4-Way Test Speech ContestOn April 11, 2018, the San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Club once again had the honor of hosting the Regional Finals of the District 5340 4-Way Test Speech Contest. This year's contestants were all outstanding, with everyone agreeing that this was the best group ever. The participants, high school students from throughout San Diego County, were (in order of ranking): Jesse Kennedy, Kaseba Chibweth, Cole Mullins, Ariana Bermudez, and Emily Sabory. Each received a cash prize, and the top three will advance to the finals on April 26. Congratulations to all of these amazing orators! The 4-Way Test Speech Contest Finals will be hosted by the Rotary Club of San Diego (Club 33) on April 26, 2018, at the Liberty Station Conference Center, 2600 Laning Road, beginning at 11:30 a.m. The event (including lunch; cost is $33) is open to the public. If you are interested in attending, you must register online at www.sandiegorotary.club.
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Play Ball!More than 60 Rotarians from District 5340 participated in Rotary Night at the Ballpark on April 12, when the San Diego Padres hosted the San Francisco Giants. The event included a special Rotary flag raising ceremony at the Rotary Flag Court (in the right field grandstand area of Petco Park). But the highlight of the evening was watching District Governor Scott Carr as he threw out the honorary first pitch and scored points for style. Congratulations, DG Scott, and thanks for representing Rotary!
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Calling All Sponsors!Join us for a relaxing and inspirational morning!
ENJOY ENGAGE
DATE AND TIME: Sunday, April 29, 2018 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
LOCATION: Fireside By The Patio 2855 Perry Road San Diego, CA 92106
TICKETS: $45 FOR SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES, READ MORE . . . .
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Game Changer Founder Sean Sheppard Named 2018 Peacemaker of the YearOn Wednesday, February 28, the San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Club bestowed the 2018 Peacemaker of the Year Award on Sean Sheppard, founder of the non-profit organization Embrace and creator of an innovative program called Game Changer. The award is given annually to a San Diego community leader who has made a significant difference in promoting tolerance, understanding, conflict resolution and peace in the region. February is Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution Month as designated by Rotary International. Sheppard became the first Peacemaker recipient to be named a Paul Harris Fellow by the San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Club. Game Changer regularly brings together law enforcement and civilian community members to discuss problems and devise solutions – together. These stakeholders talk face to face, share a meal, and sit together at a sporting event – the great equalizer – where some of the biggest changes happen. The model’s mantra is that a change in perception leads to a change in behavior, which can lead to a change in outcomes -- more peaceful outcomes. Over a 13-month period, Game Changer has hosted 36 events with more than 450 members of law enforcement and the community. “I’m beyond honored to receive recognition from such a distinguished group of humanitarians and philanthropists right here in San Diego,” stated Sheppard. “To be honored in the name of Paul Harris is extremely humbling. The recognition is a testament to what can happen when enough people consistently come together in the name of peace and understanding. There is no peace without understanding,” Sheppard added. To learn more about Sheppard and his peace-building efforts, visit www.gamechanger1.org. The Peacemaker award has been given by the San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Club for the past 10 years. The selection process is a total club effort, led by Peace Committee Chairs Sandra Schrift and George Shipp. |
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Rotary Brunch Benefit -- April 29
Join us for a relaxing and inspirational morning! ENJOY ENGAGE
DATE AND TIME: Sunday, April 29, 2018 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
LOCATION: Fireside By The Patio 2855 Perry Road San Diego, CA 92106
TICKETS: $45
SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE Or, if you are not able to attend, but you would like to support this event, please contact Cheri at cchoy54@gmail.com |
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A Special Visit From Down UnderOn January 17, the San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Club had the distinct honor of hosting R.I. President Ian Riseley at our weekly breakfast meeting. Nearly 100 members and guests gave President Ian a warm welcome and enjoyed hearing him talk about his theme of Rotary: Making a Difference, and how it will take teamwork on a global scale to move Rotary forward and secure its future. |
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District 5340 Earns Top 2017 Foundation AwardsAt the recent Zone Institute, Rotary District 5340 was awarded top honors for its work supporting The Rotary Foundation. The District also received recognition for its work in improving the branding of Rotary International. The awards were announced at the 2017 Zone Institute, held November 10-11, 2017 in Reno, Nevada. District 5340 earned the coveted 1st Place award for total contributions to The Rotary Foundation during the 2016-17 year. The top honor recognized District 5340 members as contributing $1,093,862 to The Rotary Foundation, the highest total of all districts within Rotary Zone 26. The District also received awards in many other categories, including: 2nd Place - Contributions to the Annual Fund 2nd Place - PolioPlus Contributions 1st Place - Endowment Fund Contributions 2nd Place - Other Giving 1st Place - Paul Harris Society Members 1st Place - Rotary Direct Members 2nd Place - Sustained Foundation Achievement Over Five Years 3rd Place - Most Improvement in Brand Adoption by a District |
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A Round of Golf, A Round of ApplauseThe San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Foundation held its 2017 Holes for Heroes Military Appreciation Event on Friday, September 15, at Lomas Santa Fe Country Club. More than $180,000 was raised, making it the most successful fundraising event in Holes for Heroes’ 11-year history. The proceeds benefit local military charities, including: Freedom Dogs, Honor Flight, Pegasus Rising, One More Wave Surf Corporation, Veterans Village San Diego, Physician Advocates for Veterans, USO, Armed Services YMCA San Diego and Camp Pendleton, Homefront San Diego, Angels of America's Fallen and Operation Bigs. These beneficiaries greatly improve the quality of life for our wounded and combat military veterans and their families. |
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Homeless in San DiegoJonathon Herrera, Senior Advisor on Homeless Coordination, Office of Mayor Kevin L. Faulconer, recently presented an informative program to our club members and guests on "San Diego's Homeless Initiative and Hepatitis-A Outbreak." In discussing his plans to handle the growing number of unsheltered homeless in San Diego, Herrera said his primary goal was to engage everyday citizens and homeless individuals to ensure the City is making a difference and to implement both short-term and long-term strategies to address the hepatitis-A epidemic.
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Let's Celebrate World Polio DayThere is much to celebrate. In this calendar year, there have been only 11 polio cases in the two remaining endemic countries -- six in Afghanistan and five in Pakistan. We have come a long way since Rotary started its polio eradication campaign in 1985 when there were over 350,000 cases a year in 122 endemic countries. Advocacy by Rotary and others has resulted in more than $7.2 billion donated by governments and more than $1.2 billion has been provided by Rotarians for this initiative. |
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Tee It Up!Are you ready for another amazing opportunity to honor our military veterans, raise money and have fun? This Friday, September 15, the San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Foundation will host its 11th Annual Holes for Heroes Golf Tournament and Military Appreciation Event starting at 10:30 a.m. at the Lomas Santa Fe Country Club, 1505 Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach, CA 92075. Don't miss out on the chance to spend a day on the green and dine with the troops that defend us. Veterans, their family members and friends will join us for a fun, relaxing day filled with golf and use of the Country Club grounds including the pool, gym, tennis and spa facilities. The day concludes with the Holes for Heroes Recognition Dinner, attended by more than 200 people, to honor World War II, Korean War and Vietnam War veterans and former POWs. Special honorees this year are WW II veterans and families of those lost. |
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Give Peace a ChanceOn September 16, 2017, the Pathways to Peace Committee of Rotary District 5340 will host a Rotary District Peace Leadership Seminar for new and current District Peace Chairs and Committee members, Interact and Rotaract club members and anyone with an interest in Rotary’s peace initiatives. This free event will be held at the Ronald McDonald House from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Peacebuilding efforts have been developing rapidly in Rotary, and District 5340 is very much engaged. Practically every Rotary service project and program throughout the world brings increased prospects for non-violent resolution of conflict. Pathways to Peace is focused on ways to advance this essential aspect of Rotary. The Peace Leadership Seminar will focus on how Rotary is working to become an ever-greater force for peace at home and throughout the world. |
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Building Peace Through Rotary Youth LeadershipHands of Peace and Rotary International have partnered to produce a successful District-supported summer program. Every summer for the past four years in San Diego and the past 15 years in Chicago, Hands of Peace has brought together Israeli, Palestinian and American teens to empower them to raise their voices as leaders of change. This summer, nearly 100 young people took part in this 19-day process, putting their courage and emotions to the test. |
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Making a Difference in Our CommunityMore than 30 members of the San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Club, along with their families and friends, participated in the 30th annual Stand Down for homeless veterans on July 22 and 23. Through the generosity of organizations and individuals like us, about 1,000 former military members and their families received food, clothing, showers, medical, dental and legal assistance, substance abuse counseling and a variety of other services. Stand Down is a three-day event that began in 1988 in San Diego as a way to help former military members get off the streets and put their lives back together. Every year, our club pays for and serves breakfast as part of the effort to help address the plight of these veterans. It is undoubtedly one of the most moving and worthwhile projects that we undertake. Many thanks to Frank DeFrancesco and Gary Green for coordinating the event on behalf of our club and to everyone who volunteered their time. |
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Music to Your Ears
Last weekend, 24 international student-musicians from around the world arrived in San Diego as part of the International Youth Symphony to participate in MusiCamp, a three-week program that began 13 years ago through a partnership between the San Diego Youth Symphony and Rotary District 5340. These exceptionally gifted conservatory musicians join some of the San Diego Youth Symphony students to create a unique orchestra led by San Diego Youth Symphony Music Director Jeff Edmons for two weeks of rehearsals and a variety of recitals and concerts in the community. Most of the international musicians are staying in the homes of our club members. In addition to rehearsals and performances, the visiting musicians will enjoy many fun activities in our beautiful city, including beach parties, a visit to SeaWorld and the San Diego Zoo, a harbor cruise and Midway Museum tour, surfing lessons, a shopping trip, pizza party and a beach bonfire. Many thanks to Gary McElroy, who once again has done an outstanding job as organizer and Host Family Coordinator. The 2017 International Youth Symphony performances will include an outdoor concert as part of the Twilight in the Park series in Spreckels Organ Pavilion on July 25 at 6:15 p.m., a Classical Concert at the Center Theater at California Center for the Arts in Escondido on July 29 at 7 p.m., and an opening performance of La Jolla Music Society's SummerFest in Ellen Scripps Park, La Jolla on August 2 at 6 p.m. You can also visit free open rehearsals in Casa del Prado, Balboa Park on July 17-20, 24 and 26, from 8:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information about tickets or joining in other activities with our international visitors, contact Gary McElroy at gcmcelroy@gmail.com.
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Welcome to the New Rotary Year!And so a new Rotary year begins: a new theme, a time to reflect on our club's achievements, maintain our successful programs and projects, and embrace new ideas. In 2017-18, we’ll answer the question “What is Rotary?” with RI President Ian Riseley’s theme, Rotary: Making a Difference. “Whether we’re building a new playground or a new school, improving medical care or sanitation, training conflict mediators or midwives, we know that the work we do will change people’s lives — in ways large and small — for the better.” The San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Club is honored to be the "Home Club" for this year's District Governor, Scott Carr (District 5340). Governor Scott gave an eloquent and inspiring talk at our club meeting last week, encouraging all of us to find our own Rotary "Why," and reminding us that making changes within will help make changes for others. Congratulations to President Bobbi Spinner-Flack and the 2017-2018 Board.
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Guess Who's Getting Fired?Please join us as we roast and toast our outgoing President, Larry Potter! Cash bar, seated dinner with wine, entertainment and so much more. No charge for Club members and Red Badgers; $65 for guests; $3.00 Parking in Symphony Towers. Cocktail or business attire. Be a part of the fun and help us celebrate an amazing year of "Service Above Self" by "The Greatest Rotary Club in the Universe." |
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Four-Way Test Speech Contest
This week, our club has the honor of hosting the regional finals of District 5340's Four-Way Test Speech Contest. Be prepared to see some of the best and brightest high school students from around the county wow us with their oratorical skills. The contest is designed to promote information about, and awareness of, the Four-Way Test of Rotary. The students will deliver original speeches, five to seven minutes in length, on a variety of topics. The speech must show the practical application of the Four-Way Test and should include Rotary's motto of "Service Above Self." Five VIP judges will evaluate the speeches and rank the speakers in order of finish. There are cash prizes for all participants at this level. The first place student from this round will then compete in the District finals at the end of April. The contest will start at 7:15 a.m., so please arrive extra early, get your coffee/tea and breakfast, and be in your seat by 7:10. Once the speeches begin, no one will be allowed to enter the dining room except during brief breaks between contestants because we need to keep distractions and disruptions to a minimum. Many thanks to Mike Lewis, Contest Coordinator, for organizing this special event. |
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April (Baby) Showers -- A King-Chavez Interact Club project |
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A Real Rotarian "Experienza"Two Rotarian amigas, Karen Cebreros and Mary Engles, plus two of Karen's relatives, traveled to Guatemala the last week of February in search of a replacement host club (more about that later) for a Rotary International grant that would assist the women coffee growers of the highlands of Guatemala. As a former coffee importer and founder of the International Women's Coffee Alliance, Karen wanted to support the women in coffee. They represent 80% of the small coffee growers and invest their profits in supporting their children and sustaining their community and the coffee industry.
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2017 Peacemaker of the Year: Dean Patricia MarquezEvery February, during World Understanding Month, the San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Club honors someone in our community with the Peacemaker of the Year Award. This recognition to given to an individual who has made a significant difference in promoting peace, tolerance, understanding and conflict resolution, actions consistent with Rotary’s Mission Statement of helping to build goodwill and peace in the world.
This year, our club received 17 nominations -- all worthy candidates -- and we were delighted to present the Peacemaker of the Year Award to Dr. Patricia Marquez, Dean of the Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies at the University of San Diego.
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Feeding Our HeroesAs Rotarians, we have many opportunities to give back to our community through volunteer work. This week, 10 members of the San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Club participated in the Feed Our Heroes program at the USO Neil Ash Airport Center. As in past years, our club generously donated food (sandwiches, fruit, snacks and even Girl Scout cookies) and served hundreds of military personnel (mostly Marines this year) who had just completed Boot Camp and are traveling through San Diego on their way to military assignments.
It’s always fun and rewarding to engage these young people in conversation, hear some of their stories, and express our gratitude for their service. We’re happy when they leave the Center with a full stomach and a warmed heart. Oohrah!
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The 6th Annual Peace Forum: Beyond BordersRotary District 5340 and the Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies proudly present the 6th Annual Pathways to Peace Forum on Saturday, February 25, from 8:30 a.m. to noon. This year's Peace Forum, entitled "Beyond Borders," will celebrate the relationship between our Rotary District and the Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies in creating and sustaining peace in the world.
The Forum will take place at the University of San Diego Joan B. Kroc Institute of Peace & Justice, and is free of charge. Coffee, Mexican hot chocolate, pastries and breakfast burritos will be served starting at 8 a.m.
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Sharing Our Passion For RotaryOne of the major perks of being a member of the San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Club is the location of our weekly meetings: the magnificent University Club Atop Symphony Towers. Although many of our club members are also members of the UClub, not all members of the UClub are familiar with Rotary or know that we meet and eat there every Wednesday morning.
Recently, we had an opportunity to introduce our club to UClub members by participating in their “Third Thursday” event, organized by the Young Executive Society (YES). This month’s theme was “The Future of San Diego,” a topic near and dear to our hearts. Our club members were happy to share information generally about what Rotary does, the many local and international projects we participate in to improve the lives of those less fortunate, and how our club is helping to shape the future of our city.
The event was a huge success! We connected with like-minded people who share our passion and commitment for service. Lots of UClub members expressed an interest in getting to know more about Rotary, and even signed up to be guests at one of our weekly breakfast meetings.
Many thanks to Karl Kyler for setting this up, to our amazing Membership Committee, and especially to our members who participated in this super fun event.
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Feeding Our TroopsOn Tuesday, February 21, our Rotary club will be joining the new troops of the U.S. military to serve them lunch at the USO Neil Ash Airport Center, located in Terminal 2 of the San Diego International Airport. The troops in attendance will have just finished basic training and will shortly be sent off for their assignments. Here is an opportunity to serve these young men and women who proudly and voluntarily serve our country. Your generous donations to our club Foundation pay for the meals, so they are free for the troops. President-elect Bobbi Spinner-Flack is running this event and has been part of the program for more years than she can recall. So, come join us anytime between 9 a.m. and noon for an experience you won't soon forget. |
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Introducing RotaryAs members of the San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Club know, we are clearly the "Best Club in the Universe." And because we hate to keep secrets (especially when people ask, "What is Rotary, anyway?"), our illustrious Membership Committee is taking advantage of a fantastic opportunity to spread the word. On Thursday, February 16, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., the University Club's Young Executive Society (YES) is having one of its monthly gatherings on the 34th Floor, and this one -- called "Our City"-- will bring together organizations in our community that help enhance the quality of San Diego. Professionals of all ages will be there to socialize, engage and network. Our club will have a table with general information about Rotary (including the publication called "20 Reasons to Join Rotary") and specific details about our fabulous club. Several of our members will be there to answer questions, explain who we are and what we do, and encourage people to visit us at a breakfast meeting where they will get to know us and see how we change lives and do good in the world.
YES is a University Club-affiliated group of young professionals that provides exclusive opportunities for business development, social interaction, leadership and community involvement. This event is free of charge, and drink specials will be available. Many thanks to Karl Kyler (one of our awesome new members and also a member of YES) for organizing this on behalf of our club. Come Join us for this unique opportunity to socialize, network, make new friends. and help promote Rotary.
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Rotary Team, Meet Stove TeamDid you know that smoke from open cooking fires kills more than eight times as many people as malaria? Or that in some parts of the world, four million burns are reported annually, and smoke is a leading cause of death in children under the age of five? Well, you can help change those shocking statistics by participating in a fundraiser presented by the San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Club's International Service Committee on Thursday evening, February 23, from 6 to 8 p.m. The proceeds will be used to purchase safe, affordable, fuel-efficient cookstoves -- called "Ecocinas" (see photo above) -- developed by StoveTeam International to replace dangerous open cooking fires.
Here's how you can help . . . .
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R.I. President John Germ Visits the Fun Club With a ViewOn January 18, the San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Club had the honor of hosting this year’s R.I. President John F. Germ at its Wednesday breakfast meeting. At the crack of dawn in the beautiful setting of the University Club Atop Symphony Towers, we rolled out the red carpet (literally and figuratively) and warmly welcomed R.I. President John, his Aide Ron Beaubien and District Governor Marilyn Sanderson.
We then wowed a full house with a musical extravaganza by Club President Larry Potter at the piano performing his original song “Now Is The Time.” R.I. President John addressed club members, guests, visiting Rotarians and Rotaract members, recognized our club’s many outstanding accomplishments, presented several new members with first-time Paul Harris Fellow pins (there were 12 total) and congratulated us on yet another year of being a 100% Paul Harris Club. It was quite an exciting morning. But that's how we roll!
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Coffee, Women and MicrofinanceWould you like to see for yourself how Rotary leads efforts across the globe to build strong international relationships, improve lives and create a better world? Next month, club member extraordinaire Karen Cebreros will be conducting a tour of several Rotary projects made possible by a recent Global Grant: providing small loans to women coffee producers in Guatemala and Chiapas, Mexico. Rotarians, family and friends are invited to join Karen from February 17th to 27th for this fabulous opportunity to visit coffee co-ops, learn how women in coffee benefit from microfinance, and gain a new appreciation for how your generous donations and Rotary’s global reach are furthering the cause of growing local economies world-wide.
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Fish Across the BorderTen Rotarians from the San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Club and nine of their family members traveled to Ensenada on January 6 to take part in the annual "Fish Across the Border" project in conjunction with Mexico's Feast of the Three Kings celebration. The group was joined by Rotarians and friends from the Rotary Clubs of Avalon, Vista, Montebello and San Diego (Club 33).
The organizer and host of the event was Club Rotario Ensenada Centenaria. On Friday evening, the group packed more than 1,000 food baskets and loaded them, in addition to 1,000 pre-packaged food baskets and 1,000 blankets and toys, into vehicles. On Saturday morning, they distributed these items to more than 1,000 pre-selected individuals at 12 sites in and around Ensenada.
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Happy Holidays!DECEMBER 14:
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Nov. 30: Now You Seaport Village, Now You Don'tCome hear Yehudi "Gaf" Gaffen talk about the future of the Central Embarcadero. Gaf is part of a team selected by the San Diego Port District to undertake a $1.2 billion overhaul of the 70-acre site that currently includes Seaport Village. The project is proposed to include a mix of hotels, retail, an aquarium, an observation tower and more.
Wednesday, November 30
7:00 - 8:30 a.m.
University Club Atop Symphony Towers
750 B Street Suite 3400
San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 234-5200
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Santa, Baby! ISC Event and FundraiserThis year, our club's International Service Committee (ISC) will spread some holiday cheer across the border to the children living in two orphanages in Baja California, Mexico: Door of Faith and St. Innocent. Please join us at Torque Moto Café on Thursday, December 8 from 6 to 9 p.m., where the proceeds from the sale of all beverages will benefit these children. We are encouraging everyone to bring a toy, diapers (size 5 and 6), cleaning products or simply write a check. Invite your family and friends to this fun and worthwhile event. If you cannot attend, we will be collecting donations at our upcoming club meetings. Members of the ISC will deliver the gifts to the orphanages in December, and we'd love for you to come along. Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus.
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WTF? Come Find Out on Wednesday!And no, it’s not about the political landscape! Benjamin Bergen is a linguist in the Cognitive Science Department at UC San Diego. On Wednesday, November 16, he will discuss his new book: “What the F*%+” and explain how the mind computes the meaning of words and sentences. He’ll also be talking about why we swear, what makes a word profane and how the brain processes curse words.
Don’t worry—soap is not included in the breakfast menu!
Wednesday, November 16
7:00 - 8:30 a.m.
University Club Atop Symphony Towers
750 B Street Suite 3400
San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 234-5200
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Nov. 7: Honor a Vet, Get a Good Meal and Support RotaryYou have a delicious opportunity Nov 7! The Pacifica Del Mar restaurant in Del Mar is saying thank you to vets and active duty military by giving them a free entrée on November 7. And 10% of their proceeds for the day will be donated to Holes for Heroes, the well-established local military charity sponsored by San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary. So take your favorite vet and family to Pacifica del Mar!
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NOVEMBER 5 SLATED FOR 100TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
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Don't Wait...Vaccinate!
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WORLD POLIO DAY A MEDIA SENSATION!
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All Aboard! New Member EventAre you new to our club, thinking about joining our club, working on your "Blue Badge" requirements, or interested in learning more about how you can make a difference in our community and the world? Well, we have just the event for you! President Larry Potter and the Membership Committee cordially invite you to a New Member/Red Badge happy hour on August 25 starting at 5:00 p.m. on the fabulous Strachota Insurance Company Yacht anchored at the Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina, 1441 Quivira Road, San Diego, CA 92109. Light fare and beverages will be served. Meet the Membership Committee and learn all about the Avenues of Service available to you. All club members are welcome to join us for a fun and informative evening on beautiful Mission Bay. Please RSVP to Membership Co-Chair Karen Cebreros at karencebreros@gmail.com.
The yacht is anchored at the end of the dock directly behind 1441 Quivira Rd, which is the Hyatt. You may park in the lot to the east of the main entrance or use the hotel’s valet parking if you wish. Walk through the parking lot or the hotel to reach the walkway along the marina. You will see a metal fence with locked gates into the docks. And a lot of boats. The gate you want is directly opposite the hotel’s swimming pool. A club member will be there to greet you. If you get lost, you can call Larry at (951) 265-5456 or Karen C. at (619) 889-1997 and we will come to the rescue!
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Project Runway Star Visits Our Club!Project Runway Season 14 Winner and local San Diegan, Ashley Nell Tipton, was our speaker at the SD Downtown Breakfast Rotary Club meeting this week. What an inspiring young woman. A life-long seamstress and creative designer, she saw a huge gap in the "Plus Size" women's fashion industry. J.C. Penny has signed her up to create a whole line for Plus Size women. Ashley is a wonderful ambassador for all women, encouraging them to love their bodies, no matter the size or shape. What a spark and a light. Thank you, Ashley, for speaking to us. |
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International Youth Symphony is Here!
Last weekend, 24 international student-musicians from 11 countries arrived in San Diego as part of the International Youth Symphony to participate in MusiCamp, a three-week program that began 12 years ago through a partnership between the San Diego Youth Symphony and Rotary District 5340. This year's event is the largest international participation in MusiCamp's history. The exceptionally talented musicians from around the world join 18 San Diego Youth Symphony students to create a unique orchestra led by San Diego Youth Symphony Music Director Jeff Edmons for two weeks of rehearsals and a variety of recitals and concerts in the community. Most of the international musicians are staying in the homes of our club members. In addition to rehearsals and performances, the visiting musicians will enjoy many fun activities in our beautiful city, including beach parties, a visit to SeaWorld and the San Diego Zoo, a harbor cruise and Midway Museum tour, surfing lessons, a shopping trip, pizza party and a beach bonfire. Many thanks to Gary McElroy, who once again has done an outstanding job as organizer and Host Family Coordinator. The 2016 International Youth Symphony performances will include an outdoor concert as part of the Twilight in the Park series in Spreckels Organ Pavilion on July 26, a Classical Concert at the Center Theater at California Center for the Arts in Escondido on July 30, and an opening performance of La Jolla Music Society's SummerFest in Ellen Scripps Park, La Jolla on August 3. The Classical Concert in Escondido will be dedicated to the late Bill Sturgeon, a past District Governor of Rotary District 5340 and the founder of MusiCamp and the International Youth Symphony. Friends of MusiCamp is presenting a package that includes a ticket to the Escondido concert and also a concert at a private home. For more information about tickets or joining in other activities with our international visitors, contact Gary McElroy at gcmcelroy@gmail.com.
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2016 Peacemakers of the Year AwardOn February 24, 2016, Steve Brown and Fary Moini, both from the La Jolla Golden Triangle Rotary Club, were named the San Diego Downtown Breakfast Rotary Club’s 2016 Peacemakers of the Year. They are pictured here with Sandra Schrift, our club’s Pathways to Peace Chair.
“As Jonas Salk said, ‘Hope lies in dreams, imagination and the courage of those who dare to make dreams a reality,’” remarked Sandra. “Steve and Fary demonstrate, at the very highest level, our Rotary value of Service Above Self.”
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Downtown Breakfast Rotary - Now Available To Go |
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Downtown Rotary Comes to Petco ParkOn July 31, 2013, the Downtown Breakfast Rotary invaded Petco Park. President-Elect Nancy Vaughan threw out the honorary first pitch. Club member Larry Potter sang an amazing rendition of the National Anthem. And President John Addams, his wife Susan, and their son Ethan were introduced at home plate. For more info on upcoming 2013 Padres games, click here. Also, check out a fun movie trailer below.
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