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Program for Friday September 20, 2002

Bart Ney of Cal Trans
Updates us on the Carquinez Bridge

Chair:
Door Duty: Judy Kafka and Judy Morgan

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Program for Friday September 27, 2002

Doug Wood
Former Rotarian

Door Duty: Henry Kelman and Donald Miller

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Program of September 13, 2002

Bart Wallace introduced our speaker, Steve Grossman, Director of Aviation at the Oakland International Airport (not to be confused with the "mudhole in Millbrae" as Charles Lindbergh once referred to the other local airport). Steve led us on an entertaining history of the Oakland airport and a tour of things to come. The eighth busiest airport in the world (based on take offs and landings) and the 30th busiest in the country (based on people) Oakland is about to embark on a 1.4 billion dollar expansion program. The airport's history, cargo industry, and competitive budget airlines keep it unique and growing. Assuring us that safety, security and customer service remain the most important principals, Steve's biggest tip to traveling Rotarians is: don't make jokes at the airport. On September 28th and 29th, Oakland International Airport will have an air show to honor its 75th anniversary. Thank you, Steve, for bringing Oakland Airport's story to Richmond.

Recognitions
Oscar Lugo, substituting for Joe Bagley, caught only one of us on automatic pilot in finding a golf tournament at Mira Vista instead of lunch at La Strada. A Happy Birthday to our man of sunshine (and Polio Plus), David Kutchenfeld, who gives us something to celebrate on September 11. Richmond Rotary's newest member, Jim Young, is one year older (Happy Birthday, Jim). In addition, he and his wife, Linda, celebrated their anniversary at Rotary's Mac and Masquers night; the milestone was honored with a corsage for the lady (a touch of class and thoughtfulness by Rich and Lisa Brandes). Happy anniversary Jim and Linda!

Happy / Sad $$$$$$
Elof was wounded in France in 1944 on 9-11. Prez David is happy Elof made it through. Tom Schneider was happy that his Boy Scouts had the honor of retiring over 500 US flags on 9-11. Bart Wallace is happy (fingers-crossed) that his son passed his driver's license test. Tom Butt is happy about the third performance of Point Richmond's summer concert series at Baltic Square.

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Last Meeting:
President David called the meeting to order at 12:30. Joe Green led us in the pledge.The thought for the day was all about Friday the 13th which is fortunately behind us.

Visiting Rotarians:
We warmly welcome Bill Frank (former Assistant to District Governor) from Hercules, and Bruce Keim from San Pablo.

Guests:
Josh Genser (re)introduced his guest, Michele Itagaki of Junior Achievement, who was our speaker last May

Sunshine Report: David K. informs us that Rotarian Walter Wolffs continues to have the good fortune of being cared for at home. Visitors remain welcome. With great sadness Dan Ercolini announced the passing of Jonathon Lawlis' wife, Elizabeth. Together we shared (and are sharing) a moment of silent tribute to Jon, his family, and the memory of Elizabeth. Memorial service details will follow.

Announcements
George Egan announces that $2,310 has been raised for the Bavarian Bash raffle.

GSE application deadline is September 30. Information is on the web and Prez David will help you find it if you call him.

Peres School is still in need of Windows operating systems. If you are an owner of a machine you thought was useless - Richmond Rotary can give it new life (see next item).

Dan Ercolini described a memorable Back-to-School-Night at Peres on Thursday night ala Richmond Rotary style: the added draw of a chance to win something big. In this case, it was a complete and wonderfully recycled computer system that's up and running thanks to Dan, his Community Service team and donors. The lucky winner and mother of a Peres first grader (now budding computer techie) gratefully took home the whole package: an internet-ready computer along with a cd player, monitor, keyboard, mouse, mouse pad and printer. High Fives to community service! Coming soon: Back-to-School photos taken by Pam Jones on the Rotary web site.

Classroom sponsorship: Now beginning its third year, Richmond Rotarians have the opportunity to sponsor a teacher and classroom at Peres Elementary School. Dan announced that Pam Jones will be keeping sponsors in touch with teachers and their classes as funds are used for basic supplies. 35 classrooms are seeking Sponsorships at $100 (and can be shared); contact Dan or Pam.

Junior Achievement at Peres School: Richmond Rotarians have the opportunity to teach young people the value of basic economics and business planning. All materials are provided for 5 one-hour sessions in a classroom setting.

Richmond Rotary will meet October 4 at La Strada Restaurant in San Pablo (corner of Church and San Pablo Ave.).

Richmond Rotary Lotto

The Rotary Raffle suspense grows. Priscilla Leadon graciously won a lunch. Prez David and many others were very happy for her. If you haven't been paying attention, next week is an excellent time to buy into a raffle with a pot that exceeds $1400, one orange ball, one white ball, and a room full of Richmond's friendliest gamblers.

The meeting was adjourned at 1:30.

Respectfully submitted,

Jan B. Nimble