Rotary Club of Santa Monica

"2002/2003"

Rota-Monica

www.RotaryClubofSantaMonica.org 

Coming Our Way

His informed stream of consciousness, wherein he’s fond of arguing opposing points of view simultaneously, is one of Harvey Stromberg’s strengths.  Known for his KCRW talk show where he fielded questions about subjects ranging from glasnost to glitter-rock, Stromberg credits the advantage of travel for shaping his unique worldview. He was born in Canada, traveled the Orient and was exposed to many different cultures along the way. In addition to his impressive academic credentials, Stromberg was constantly reminded abroad how the rest of the world looks at America, and he’s added his own vision to the mix.  We’ll see ourselves reflected in his mirror on October 18th  when he probes Behind the Headlines. 

It’s More Than Just Green Stuff

It was once considered a sign of our inevitable maturity when we heard our parents’ life lessons coming out of our own mouths, but now James Gottfurcht, Ph.D., tells us that’s precisely why we have irrational behavior about money. His theory is that regardless of how savvy we are about it, we react to having and spending money the same way our parents treated it at home when we were children.  The admonitions and cautious behavior, what Gottfurcht refers to as ‘poverty thinking’, is associated with negativity and never having enough money.  ‘Prosperity thinking’ is an attitude of beliefs and goals associated with optimism.  Gottfurcht taught us to be aware of those internal voices from the past and hear them for what they were, not for what they necessarily are to us now as adults.  Valuable lessons at any price.

Our own Chris Lawson has developed the six-step financial flow model that has empowered individuals across the country to reclaim their economic independence.  For availing yourself of Chris’ expertise at a conference on November 2nd, you will not only get the benefit of his experience, but he’ll donate 5% of the proceeds to the Santa Monica Rotary Foundation.  His co-presenters are Dr. Gottfurcht and Max Jafee, CPA. Call 866-221-6046 to register.  This is assuredly a ‘prosperity thinking’ act.

Heads Up

Lending flair to the head table were David Rimer, MD, as acting chair; Blair Brandenburg to introduce visiting Rotarians and guests; Dick Lawrence to introduce featured speaker James Gottfurcht, Ph.D.; new member Eloise Helwig; and Ann Greenspun to give the invocation.

Of Significance

Project Vote Smart  sounds very smart indeed. Dave Rimer said it was started by a coalition of Democrats and Republicans to research clean, unbiased information in service to the American people. The organization is totally dependent upon private donations for its support.  Rotarians are encouraged to read the material about Project Vote Smart from the neutral middle.

Governor Rick Mendoza wrote to express his satisfaction that club presidents are leading their members to programs that reflect the ideals of Rotary.  Our club has distinguished itself with participation in the Literacy Breakfasts and Foundation Seminar, not to mention the support given to the Paul Harris Fellowship dinner and return of $100 per member with opportunity drawing ticket stubs. Governor Mendoza reminded us that this money is essential for Rotary International to discharge its many good deeds.

Rotarians expressed condolences at the passing of Fred Payne, whose memorial service took place earlier today.  He was well remembered as a past Treasurer of Rotary of Santa Monica, and an executive at the former Security Pacific Bank.

Robert Segal asked members to check out the club website, in particular, the segment on the Center for Healthy Ageing Help Guide.  Since we’re all getting older, why not?

Tee time is fast approaching for those who want to play golf in Ojai on October 16th.  Bill Aspinwall is arranging car pools for camaraderie and efficiency.  And to make the offer irresistible, the fee’s been discounted to $100.

Needles are a good thing, because they’ll be used at the Immunization Clinic at St. John’s Hospital on October 19th.  Jim Reidy asked for volunteer help from 9:00 AM until 11:30 AM.  You may valet park at no cost on Santa Monica Blvd., or behind the Center for Healthy Ageing on Arizona & 22nd St., complements of Monika White.

Good news on the healthcare front.  Fred Dutton is recovering at home from his recent hospitalization.  Your get-well wishes by card or phone would be most welcome.

More good news. Lisa Claussen, MBA candidate, wrote that she thoroughly enjoyed her afternoon with Rotary and she’s looking forward to the day she can join as a member in her own right.  Her impression of a room full of business people singing in unison was “rich”.  Right she is.  We are.

 Hmmm.  What do you suppose it means that Greg Hargrave knew that “cannibals” was the answer to the question of the week, “What does long pig refer to?”  School lunches in Pasadena must have been, uh, interesting.

The Welcome Mat

The sole visiting Rotarian was past president Noel Develter from Belgium.  He was delighted to be back in the States, and especially at our Club meeting, where from the podium he could look at a room full of our smiling faces.  All welcomed visitor Liz Askrin.

Fine Time

Without putting too fine a point on it, Bill Hunt has a point.  He was fined $100 last week for showing up the Friday before Labor Day when our meeting was cancelled.  In truth, Bill got to experience one of his long-held fantasies by showing up in advance, knowing the meeting was cancelled, so he could take a photo of anyone else who arrived by mistake. Sure enough, he got his shot, but it does make one wonder if that’s all he could think to do on a long weekend.

Oops – NOT!

Hard to believe, but I spelled all names correctly in the last edition.

On The Agenda

Just Joey

The hardest part of being a writer is convincing myself that, when I’m looking out the window, I’m working.                 –With apologies to Bernard DeVoto for a twist of words

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