August 14 – “Community Science Night” – Santiago Canyon College professor Debra Brooks will discuss the joint program with Orange Unified School District to promote science education through this annual “hands on” event for families. 5:30 p.m., Grand Street Center.

August 21 – Club Board Meeting. All members encouraged to attend. 4:45 p.m., Grand Street Center.

August 21 – Sharon Flynn introduces Hart Community Homes, which provides assistance to teen boys, including resources for youth transitioning out of the foster care system. 5:30 p.m., Grand Street Center.

August 28 – Local Attorney Michael Penn will share his experiences in the Rotary Youth Exchange program. 5:30 p.m., Grand Street Center

August 28 – Fundraiser Planning Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Grand Street Center

August 30 – Rotary Day with the Angels! – Tailgating at 3, game at 6:00 – Come watch the Angels take on Texas! For info, contact Tracey Curtis.

September 11 – Special Membership Event! – Lunch with past Rotary International President Richard D. King. Hosted by the Rotary Clubs of Orange, Orange North, Orange Sunrise and Villa Park. Noon, The Turnip Rose, 300 S. Flower Street, Orange, CA

September 18 – District 5320 Governor Roger McGonegal will visit the club and discuss his goals and hopes for clubs in our District. 5:30 p.m., Grand Street Center.

Reading by 9 Record Shattered

More than 43,000 books were collected at the Orange County Fair on July 30th, breaking the previous record by more than 5,000 books. Numerous Rotary clubs, included Orange Sunrise, manned three booths at the fair entrances from noon to 6 p.m. Families poured in, donating one new or 3 “gently used” children’s books in exchange for an admission ticket and a free amusement ride.

Reading by 9 is a partnership program with the Los Angeles Times and Scholastic Books. Scholastic donates one book for every one collected. As a result of the OC Fair event, nearly 90,000 books will be donated to Orange County and Los Angeles County schools.

Orange Sunrise Rotarian Teri Snyder is the District 5320 Literacy Chair. Teri has devoted hundreds of hours to the Reading by 9 program over the last four years, including the recent book collection at the Rotary International Convention in Los Angeles, where more than 240,000 books were donated by Rotarians from around the world.

A Truly Crafty “Craft Talk”

Member Joe Spiegelberg, owner of “Maude Asbury”, introduced fellow Rotarians to his business and products in a fun and creative way at our July 31st meeting. Maude Asbury (named for the great-grandmother of a friend) manufactures photo albums, scrapbooks and other products with the “elegance of handmade finery”.

Joe demonstrated his “I-Makit” product line, which allows customers to create custom covers for scrapbooks, photo frames and albums and 3-ring binders. Joe handed out a kit to everyone at the meeting, and each person selected fabric for their custom binder. We then set about following Joe’s easy-to-follow instructions. In a few minutes, everyone was sharing their craftiness!

Thanks Joe for a fun presentation (an $18 value)!

PRIP on a Trip to Orange and VP

Past International President (2001-2002) Richard D. King will be the speaker at a special joint luncheon of the Orange and Villa Park clubs on Thursday, September 11th. Rick King is an inspiring speaker who touches his audiences with the story of his personal journey as a Rotarian. Traveling the world during his year President, Rick participated in dozens of projects with local clubs and observed hundreds more. He brings these experiences to District 5320 to share with you!

This MEMBERSHIP EVENT is a great way to introduce prospective and newly inducted members to the programs of the Rotary Foundation. Don’t miss this opportunity. Ask someone to join you for lunch. Remember, someone once asked you! For info, contact Rae Shirer.

Been on Vacation?

Missed a Meeting? Need a makeup to keep your 100% attendance streak alive? Not to worry, there are plenty of great Rotary clubs around that will welcome you for a make up. For meeting days and places, visit the district website.

July 30 – Reading by 9 at the OC Fair

July 31 – Craft Talk! Joe Spiegelberg introduces “Maude Asbury”, 5:30 p.m., Grand Street Center

August 7 – Speaker David Young, Anaheim Fire Captain, will discuss “Fire Safety in the Workplace”, 5:30 p.m., Grand Street Center

August 28 – Local Attorney Michael Penn will share his experiences in the Rotary Youth Exchange program, 5:30 p.m., Grand Street Center

August 28 – Car Show Planning Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Grand Street Center

August 30 – Rotary Day with the Angels! – Tailgating at 3, game at 6:00 – Come watch the Angels take on Texas!

One Day, One Family, One New Home

Six members of Orange Sunrise traveled to Tijuana, Mexico with “Familia Corazon” to construct a one room house for family of four.

23 year old Jose Guadalupe Rivera Elizondo works full time for Familia Corazon and his wife Beatriz Susana Quiroz Laguna is a secretary for the organization. They have two children, five year old Jose Antonio Rivera Quiroz and two year old Melany Alexandra Rivera Quiroz.

Jose’s father, a retired government worker, was able to buy lots for each of his children. Finally, Jose was able to build a new home!

Jose and Antonio joined the 30 Corazon volunteers, including Rotarians, YMCA of Orange volunteers, and the friends, family and co-workers of local college student Natalie Baddorf, who pulled together this team.

The 16 by 20 foot house was built of simple 2 x 4 framing and plywood, with a loft space for the children to sleep and a small private room for Jose and Beatriz. The home has no running water, but includes a counter top for food preparation and space for the family’s propane stove.

Orange Sunrise Rotarian Joe Colombo wrote a special report on the project for the club, including additional pictures. For Joe’s report, click here.

To learn more about the work of Familia Corazon, visit their website, www.corazon.org.

Five Easy Pieces

Updated membership recruiting materials have arrived! All members are encouraged to take a few of each item to help spread the word about Rotary! Here are five suggestions to work a “membership minute” into your day:

1. Wear Rotary every day! Do you only wear your pin on meeting day? Don’t miss the opportunity to tell someone about Rotary when they notice your pin and ask “What is that thing???”

2. Carry the “What is Rotary”? wallet brochures. These are business card sized and fit easily in your wallet or bag. They are the perfect response to the person who asked “What is that thing???” (See step 1.)

3. Display the Rotary wheel decal. Every member received one of these when they joined Rotary – where is yours? Is it on the window of your business? On your car? Display the wheel in a creative, open space, so someone will ask you, “What is that thing???

4. Invite a guest with the new “Start with Rotary” invitation cards. These newly designed cards are business card sized, with bright, fun graphics. On the flip side, you can jot in the date of the next Orange Sunrise meeting and hand it to that person who dared to ask “What is that thing”???

5. Follow up with the “You’re Invited Brochure”. This tri-fold brochure fits easily in a standard envelope for mailing to your future Rotarian friend. The brochure describes the specific programs of Orange Sunrise Rotary and includes meeting and contact information.

These supplies are available at every club meeting. So pick some up and invite someone to Rotary!

Focus on Fundraising

This month’s district training seminar is all about fundraising! All members are encouraged to attend the FREE seminar, 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., August 12th at the Doubletree Hotel. New ideas and great old ones will be shared.

Orange Sunrise is adding two small fundraisers this year to benefit the Rotary Foundation. While the Annual Orange Plaza Car Show provides the club’s operating budget each year, Orange Sunrise members have also voted to increase our contributions to the Foundation through these additional projects.

President Bryan Kerl outlined these projects at our July 24^th meeting.

The first will be our participation in the City of Orange “Treats in Streets” event in October. Bryan asked the club for suggestions on what to sell or services to offer at this Halloween-themed community event. These ideas will be further discussed at future meetings.

Bryan also provided the framework for throwing our first annual “Sweetheart Sock Hop”, tentatively set for February 2009. This 50s themed event will be held in Grand Center gymnasium. A special planning meeting will be announced soon to move this project forward.

Make Up on the Golf Course!

Many Rotary clubs in District 5320 meet at golf course country clubs and some can be found in yacht clubs. It’s summer, so why not enjoy a Wednesday sunset at the beach with the Newport-Balboa Rotary or play a few holes after breakfast with Yorba Linda Sunrise? Enjoy all our unique District has to offer! For meeting days and locations, visit the District website:

http://www.rotary5320.org/WhereClubsMeet/tabid/73/Default.aspx

Mark Your Calendars

July 19 – Familia Corazon Build Day in Mexico

July 24 – Car Show Planning Meeting

July 30 – Reading by 9 at the OC Fair

August 30 – Rotary Day with the Angels!

Bryan Kerl Heads Up New Team

Bryan H. Kerl was sworn in as President of Orange Sunrise for the 2008-2009 year at a celebratory brunch on July 13th. Bryan, a fourth-generation printer and owner of “Presstime” in Anaheim, takes over from retiring president, John Bouyer.

Bryan served the club last year as Membership Chair, bringing in a record 7 members–the highest figure since the club’s charter in 1985. Bryan vows to be the “Membership President” and will continue to focus on recruiting young, “hands on” members into Rotary.

Serving with Bryan will be: Tracey Curtis (Club Service), Teri Snyder (Vocational Service), Joe Colombo (Community Service) and John Bouyer (International Service). Each of these new committee chairs received a new pin during the transition ceremonies. Also inducted was Joe Spiegelberg, the new chair of the Membership committee. Tom Hood and Randy Holbrook will head up the Program committee. Keith Oldoerp and Shelley Holbrook have been added to the expanded Youth Services Committee.

Rounding out the list of club officers: Treasurer Dolores Marikian and Secretary Rae Shirer (Foundation Chair), join past President Bouyer and President Elect Joe Colombo on the club’s board of directors.

The new, larger leadership team is excited to get started on the many projects planned this Rotary year!

For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow!

Bryan has wasted no time setting an example for the club to follow. District Governor Roger McGonegal inducted Bryan as a Paul Harris Fellow during the July 13th brunch. Bryan contributed over $1,000 during the 2007-2008 year to Rotary Foundation Annual Programs Fund. His contribution allows the Foundation to continue its work worldwide, promoting world peace and understanding. For more about the scholarship programs and the health, hunger and humanity initiatives of the Rotary Foundation, click here.

In the photo, Bryan is presented with the certificate of his induction after receiving the Paul Harris medallion and fellowship pin from Governor McGonegal.

The Governor’s lovely spouse Sheila also attended the event, as well as Bryan’s own wife Marcelle and other members of his family.

International Service Team Heads to Mexico

There’s still time to sign up for our first service project of the year – the Familia Corazon Build Day in Tijuana, Mexico. We will leave Orange at 3:30 a.m., Saturday, July 19th. After meeting up with the caravan in Chula Vista, we will head to the jobsite at dawn. Familia Corazon has built 100’s of one room homes for the impoverished of Mexico. Our team, made of 30 community members from Rotary, the YMCA and other local groups, will build a 16×20 foot home with loft and “bathroom”. Working in small groups, teams will build components of the house and then come together to assemble and paint the finished product. At the end of the day, the completed home will be presented to the family, who also volunteered hours of labor to earn their home.

Extra hands are always needed for a project like this! Contact International Service Chair John Bouyer ASAP if you want to sign up!

Reading by 9 At the OC Fair!

The signature literacy project of District 5320 kicks off at the Orange County Fair on July 30th. From noon to 6 p.m., anyone bringing one new or three “gently used” childrens’ books will receive one free admission to the fair. Typically, more than 20,000 books are collected during this annual one-day event.

Rotarians will man the collection booths and pack books onto pallets. Participating Rotarians also receive admission to the fair as well concert tickets to an event at the Pacific Amphitheater. To sign up and receive your FREE TICKETS, contact Vocational Service Chair Teri Snyder.

Let’s Go Out To The Ballgame!

As we go to press, the Angels of Anaheim are in first place–up by 6 games! So let’s get some discount tickets for the home game against the Texas Rangers on Saturday, August 30th.

The game starts at 6:00, but dozens of District 5320 Rotarians will gather at 3:00 p.m. for a “tailgater” in the parking lot. To get your $20 field level or $17 terrace level tickets, contact Club Service Chair Tracey Curtis today!

Mark Your Calendars

June 26 – Guest Speaker – Christine Kirk, Outdoor Education Center

July 8 – Focus on Membership! – District training at the Doubletree Hotel. 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.

July 10 – Club Board Meeting – first of the new year! 4:45 p.m., Grand Street Center

July 13 – Installation Celebration Brunch – 9: 00 a.m., Orange Hill Restaurant

July 19 – Familia Corazon Build Day in Mexico

July 24 – Car Show Planning Meeting – 6:30 p.m., Grand Street Center

July 30 – Reading by 9 Book Collection at the Orange County Fair

Orange and Villa Park Clubs Host Convention Hospitality Event

Orange Sunrise Rotary joined with the Rotary clubs of Orange, Orange North and Villa Park to celebrate the family of Rotary on June 16th. The International Family Reunion is a Monday night tradition at every annual Rotary International Convention. This year, with the convention in Los Angeles, the four area Rotary clubs were fortunate to host 45 visitors from 12 countries at a special dinner at PJ’s Abbey Restaurant in Old Towne Orange. Guests were bussed to the Orange Public Library and History Center for a brief reception before heading out for architectural history tours of Old Towne. Four groups took walking tours around town, while others hopped aboard the Ricci Realty trolley for a narrated tour.

Orange Sunrise Rotarians Joan Kulifay, Tom Hood, Dave Mau, Joe Spiegelberg, and Keith Oldoerp guided visitors through the Plaza to PJs, where Tracey and Jason Curtis, Teri Snyder and Randy Holbrook were waiting to greet the arriving tours.

Local Rotarians were seated with conventioneers and enjoyed a California-themed dinner, wines and entertainment by Emily Brandenburg, Miss City of Orange. Everyone exchanged club banners, pins and gifts before the guests boarded the bus for the return trip to their hotels in LA. This was a once-in-a-lifetime event and one many guests stated they would never forget!

Yes, Virginia, There is a John Bouyer

We have photographic proof that there really is a President of Orange Sunrise Rotary. He was spotted working the RI Convention, where he was a co-chair of the House of Friendship committee. Assisting Past District Governor Grant Engle (Fountain Valley), John helped to design the international trade fair, coordinate the installation of booths and other equipment and troubleshoot during the convention.

Convention attendees also enjoyed the products of Orange Sunrise Rotarian Jack Sappington, who constructed the internet kiosks scattered throughout the House of Friendship.

Other Rotarians, Other Sightings

Charter member Dick Yarger was in town recently visiting friends and family. Dick and Muriel moved to Palm Desert when he retired a few years ago, but enjoy seeing the old gang now and then. The two hailed Rae Shirer as she walked past PJ’s Abbey on a beautiful Sunday morning. Rae was timing the walking tour for the recent hospitality event, while the Yargers had just enjoyed a PJs breakfast.

More Member News

The Los Angeles Times ran this on May 29th:

“SWEET SURRENDER – Comfort food king Dave Mau (of “Dinner With Dave” renown) has teamed with sushi chef Cody Bryant at the Retreat. Lunch highlights include Cody’s Nachos (seared scallops and shrimps on won ton chips) and cocas (Spanish flatbreads) with eclectic toppings. But the two love to improvise in the restaurant’s open kitchen. “You never know what we might come up with,” says Mau. 7 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Sat. Located inside the Spa and Fitness Club at South Coast Plaza, 695 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. (714) 850-0050 Ext. 135; www.myspace.com/thescretreat”

More about Dave at his website:

http://dinnerwithdave.com/_wsn/page5.html

What’s More Exciting Than a New Restaurant? Wedding News!

President-elect Bryan Kerl announced that his daughter Megan will marry this summer. Who’s the lucky groom? No less than Matthew Holbrook, son of our Orange Sunrise members Randy and Shelley Holbrook!

Matthew popped the question at the Magic Castle, where he conjured up an engagement ring that magically appeared on Megan’s hand! Congratulations to both families!

Your Convention Pass Saves $15 on Universal Studios Hollywood Tour!

In celebration of Rotary International’s Convention in Los Angeles, Universal Studios Hollywood is extending an exclusive savings offer to Host Districts and their guests. From June 6-25, Rotary Club members may use the attached coupon to receive $15 OFF a Full-Day General Admission. This is a special discount arranged by members of the Universal City-Sunrise Club of District 5260 that is not available to any other convention group. The discount coupons may be used before, during and after the International Convention through June 25th with family and friends. http://www.universalhollywoodevents.com/products/rotary/

Mark Your Calendars

June 5 – ROP Recognition – 4 students and 4 instructors from the Central Orange County Regional Occupational Program will be honored for their outstanding work. 5:30 p.m., Grand Street Center.

June 12 – Relay for Life – American Cancer Society – Come hear about how you can participate in the American Cancer Society Relay for Life. Teams forming now! 5:30 p.m., Grand Street Center.

June 16 – Host Hospitality Night! – 50 guests from 11 countries will be guests of the Rotary Clubs of Orange during the Rotary International Convention. Guests will arrive by bus at the Orange Library and History Center, take a tour of Old Towne architecture and shopping, and finish the evening with dinner at PJ’s Abbey. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime event! Dinner tickets $25. Contact: rae_shirer@orangesunriserotary.org

Andrea Seu Receives Interact Leadership Award

Orange Sunrise Rotary Club presented El Modena High School senior Andrea Seu with the 2008 Interact Leadership Award at the school’s assembly on May 28th. Andrea is the President of the Interact Club on the El Modena campus. Interact is Rotary’s youth service organization. Interact members perform hundreds of hours of community service each year. The El Modena club has served holiday meals at the Orange Senior Center, participated in cleanup days at the beach and in Santiago Creek, donated books to elementary school children through the “Reading by 9” program, improved the nature center on the El Modena campus and walked to raise funds to combat AIDS. The Interact Club at El Modena is sponsored by Orange Sunrise Rotary Club.

Andrea was presented with a $1,000 check recognizing her leadership and committment to community service. She was also honored by the school for her more than 200 hours of community service and will wear a special gold cord at graduation. Andrea will attend Cal State Long Beach in the fall, where she will study nursing.

Photo: Andrea Seu (left) with presenter Rae Shirer

Family Food Force Delivers!

Eight local families received large cartons of canned goods, pasta, rice, peanut butter and tuna fish delivered by Orange Sunrise Rotarians on May 30th. The “Family Food Force” program is a new quarterly effort by Orange Sunrise, which has traditionally provided food items during the December holiday season. The expanded program is designed to reach more families in need throughout the year.

Orange Sunrise past-president and YMCA CEO Dolores Marikian identified the families in the El Modena area most needing our assistance. Incoming Community Service Chair Joe Colombo spearheaded the morning of shopping at the Orange County Food Bank. Joe’s family members pitched in to assist with this task and to help sort the goods into eight separate delivery bundles.

The delivery team then took over. YMCA staff delivered to two families, while Orange Sunrise members John Bouyer, Rae Shirer and Joe Spiegelberg visited six families in the El Modena neighborhood.

The next “Food Force” event will be in September.

Orange Sunrise Receives “Governor’s Membership Award”

Membership Chair Bryan Kerl took the stage on June 3rd during the Governor’s Transition Dinner to receive the “Governor’s Membership Award” for his outstanding efforts this year. Under Bryan’s leadership, 7 new members were inducted into Orange Sunrise–a 33% increase in membership.

Orange Sunrise posted the second-best membership results of all clubs in our District. Bryan assured everyone attending the dinner that he will continue to focus on bringing new members to the club and will assist incoming membership chair Joe Spiegelberg as we build on this success.

More Kudos for Orange Sunrise Members

Members Teri Snyder, John Bouyer and Rae Shirer were also thanked for their service during the Governor’s dinner. Teri has served as the District Vocational Chair, with special emphasis on literacy efforts. She has worked tirelessly on behalf of the “Reading by 9” children’s book drive for many years. But this year, the job has grown to a “mountain”! All Rotarians attending the International Convention in Los Angeles are asked to bring children’s books with them. As Rotary attempts to establish a Guiness book record for the world’s largest book drive, Teri has personally collected thousands of books from clubs and members for delivery to the storage location and convention

Teri will continue to serve the District next year as Literacy Chair, a new position, while Fountain Valley Rotarian Cheryl Westley steps into the Vocational Service position.

John Bouyer was recognized for his roles on both the District Advisory Committee and the District Finance Committee. Although the theme at the dinner was Governor Brainerd’s inability to stick to a budget, we are told to say that this was not John Bouyer’s fault in any way.

Rae Shirer received a service award for chairing the November 2007 Rotary Foundation Dinner.

More Member News!

Member and Interact Advisor Rebecca Martinez has been promoted and will be the new Vice Principal at El Modena High School this fall! El Modena teacher Christine LeFever will take the lead as advisor to the El Modena Interact Club. Congratulations Rebecca!

Members Tracey and Jason Curtis announced that they are expecting their first child in December! We take this “family of Rotary” thing very seriously!

Teri Snyder recently returned from a trip to England which she described as “wonderful”!

Dolores Marikian will soon head off to Alaska for a family vacation, while Joe Colombo also hits the road for his annual tour of America’s hot spots.

John Bouyer will be traveling to Mississippi, where he is now constructing two homes to replace those destroyed by Hurricane Katrina.

Making Up is Easy to Do!

With more than 30,000 clubs around the world, Rotary welcomes you! When you are traveling or on vacation, try out a new Rotary Club and make some new friends! You can search for Rotary clubs online at www.rotary.org

Back at home, makeup those missed meetings at one of our “sister” clubs in the city of Orange. Orange North meets Tuesdays at noon at PJ’s Abbey, while the Orange club can be found Thursdays at the Turnip Rose, where they serve a terrific lunch buffet. For more meeting days and times in our District, check out:

http://www.rotary5320.org/WhereClubsMeet/tabid/73/Default.aspx

Mark Your Calendars

May 22 – Orange Police Explorers -Members of the Orange Police Explorers will discuss the year’s activities and be honored for their work at the 14th annual Orange Plaza Car Show. 5:30 p.m., Grand Street Center.

May 29 – District Governor John Brainerd – Join us for a special presentation by Rotary District Governor John Brainerd, who will discuss his year as Governor, his recent trip to South America, and his hopes for the future of Rotary. Bring a guest! 5:30 p.m., Grand Street Center.

May 30th – “Family Food Force” – Shop for four local families and make deliveries of groceries and pantry supplies. A trip to the food bank may take place on May 29th, with teams delivering on the 30th. More details to be announced.

June 5 – ROP Recognition – 4 students and 4 instructors from the Central Orange County Regional Occupational Program will be honored for their outstanding work. 5:30 p.m., Grand Street Center.

June 12 – Relay for Life – American Cancer Society – Come hear about how you can participate in the American Cancer Society Relay for Life. Teams forming now! 5:30 p.m., Grand Street Center.

June 16 – Home Hospitality Night – The three Rotary Clubs of Orange, Orange North and Orange Sunrise will host a special joint event for attendees of the Rotary International Convention. 60 guests will visit Old Towne for historical walking tours, special presentations at the Orange Library and History Center and dinner at PJ’s Abbey! 5:00 p.m to 9:00 p.m., Old Towne Orange.

June 26 – Outdoor Education Center – Learn how this group promotes awareness of our environment and conservation of resources. 5:30 p.m., Grand Street Center.

June 28 – Demotion Dinner and Officers’ Installation – A celebration of the past year of achievement before new President Bryan Kerl takes the gavel and swears in new officers for 2008-2009. 5:00 p.m., Disneyland USA.

Orange Sunrise Rotary Refurbishes Local Woman’s Home

Orange Sunrise Rotary spent a day in the sun May 17^th, repairing and repainting the motor home of a resident of the Santiago Estates motor home park in Orange. Working with Rebuilding Together Orange County, Rotarians arrived at 7:30 a.m. to begin trimming trees and shrubs and to remove and repair large sections of water damaged siding on the home.

In the photo, Orange Sunrise Rotarians Keith Oldoerp, Tracey Curtis and Bryan Kerl begin work on the Adele Street home.

Part of the Rotary team moved inside to repair the damaged flooring in the bathroom of the coach. Orange Sunrise Rotary President John Bouyer supervised the replacement of the wood subflooring and replacement of termite damaged support beams. After the repairs were complete, new vinyl flooring (donated by the John C. Bouyer Co.) was installed in the space.

Rotarians also repainted the entire exterior of the coach. The Orange Sunrise Rotary team was joined by members of the Rotary Club of Tustin-Santa Ana in the painting project.

Rebuilding Together is the nation’s largest volunteer home repair organization in the country. Across Orange County, Rebuilding Together is dramatically changing neighborhoods and lives by helping deserving homeowners live independently in comfort and safety. Rebuilding Together provides home repair and modification services to low-income homeowner-residents throughout Orange County. For more information, visit www.rebuildingtogetheroc.org.

El Modena Interact Reports an A+ Year

The board of directors of the El Modena Interact club joined us for our May 15th meeting, snacking on mini-burgers and hot dog bites before taking the podium to deliver their year-end report.

The club is very active on campus and in the community. Members participated in beach cleanup days, threw a holiday dinner at the Orange Senior Center, assisted in the Scouting for Food drive in November, walked the “CHOC walk” to benefit the children’s hospital, and held two successful book fairs on campus to benefit the Reading by 9 program. Interact will finish the year by participating in AIDS Walk Orange County in June.

Interact is Rotary International’s service organization for young people 14-18 years old. El Modena Interact is sponsored by the Orange Sunrise Rotary. The club meets every Wednesday during the school year. Orange Sunrise Rotary member and El Modena teacher Rebecca Martinez is the club advisor.

RYLA Revs Them Up!

Boojum!

Hundreds of high school students learned the meaning of that word and the term “Leadership” at the RYLA camp in Idyllwild, April 25-27. Orange Sunrise sponsored three juniors from El Modena High School for the weekend event. Boojum refers to the Boojum Institute, which provide experiential outdoor education to youth. At the RYLA event, Rotarian volunteers use Boojum techniques, such as challenge courses, ropes courses, teambuilding and leadership exercises to develop self-confidence in tomorrow’s leaders. RYLA is not limited to students who already have leadership skills, but reaches out to students that may be at-risk and who may benefit most from the experience.

El Modena junior Joey Talarico thanked the club for the opportunity when he visited our May 15th meeting. Joined by his mother Gina, Joey revealed that he was hesitant to go, not really knowing what to expect. But in a thank you letter to the club, Joey reported that his “leadership skills improved immensely” and that he made “lifelong friends”. He is looking forward to returning to RYLA next year as a senior alumni. Alumni are responsible for planning and running the camp for the incoming junior class.

For more information about the RYLA program, visit the District 5320 RYLA website, www.ryla5320.org

Rotary Foundation Thought

Rotarians around the world support Avoidable Blindness projects.

Realizing the urgency of the problem, Rotary clubs and districts around the world have developed Matching Grant projects designed to combat avoidable blindness and assist those suffering from vision loss. Thousands of cataract surgeries have been performed as a result of Matching Grants involving numerous countries including Mexico, South Africa, USA, Lebanon, India and Turkey. Rotary clubs in Uruguay and Argentina partnered to provide equipment for a library for the blind in Montevideo, Uruguay. And, as a result of a matching grant obtained by Rotary clubs in Nepal and the USA, funds were provided to offer vision screenings, glasses and corrective surgeries for children in Kathmandu, Nepal. Isn’t it nice to know that Rotarians are restoring eyesight to so many?

You can make your contribution to the Rotary Foundation online today! Just visit www.rotary.org.

Mark Your Calendars

May 15 – Youth Focus – El Modena Interact members and the 2008 RYLA participants will discuss their experiences and plans for the future. 5:30 p.m., Grand Street Center.

May 17 – Rebuilding Together OC Work Day – Orange Sunrise members will spend the morning refurbishing the home of a local elderly resident.

May 22 – Orange Police Explorers -Members of the Orange Police Explorers will discuss the year’s activities and be honored for their work at the 14th annual Orange Plaza Car Show. 5:30 p.m., Grand Street Center.

May 29 – District Governor John Brainerd – Join us for a special presentation by Rotary District Governor John Brainerd, who will discuss his year as Governor, his recent trip to South America, and his hopes for the future of Rotary. Bring a guest! 5:30 p.m., Grand Street Center.

June 5 – ROP Recognition – 4 students and 4 instructors from the Central Orange County Regional Occupational Program will be honored for their outstanding work. 5:30 p.m., Grand Street Center.

June 12 – Relay for Life – American Cancer Society – Come hear about how you can participate in the American Cancer Society Relay for Life. Teams forming now! 5:30 p.m., Grand Street Center.

June 16 – Home Hospitality Night – The three Rotary Clubs of Orange, Orange North and Orange Sunrise will host a special joint event for attendees of the Rotary International Convention. 60 guests will visit Old Towne for historical walking tours, special presentations at the Orange Library and History Center and dinner at PJ’s Abbey! 5:00 p.m to 9:00 p.m., Old Towne Orange.

June 26 – Outdoor Education Center – Learn how this group promotes awareness of our environment and conservation of resources. 5:30 p.m., Grand Street Center.

June 28 – Demotion Dinner and Officers’ Installation – A celebration of the past year of achievement before new President Bryan Kerl takes the gavel and swears in new officers for 2008-2009. 5:00 p.m., Disneyland USA.

There’s More!

Bring a guest to the May 29th meeting, as this will be our final “Membership Mixer” of the Rotary year. Bryan Kerl will throw his last bash as Membership Chair before taking office as Prez. The meeting will focus on the good we do in our community, with our District Governor attending as special guest. Ask someone!

And…

May 30th we will be sending out the “Family Food Force” to shop for four local families and make deliveries of groceries and pantry supplies. A trip to the food bank may take place on May 29th, with teams delivering on the 30th. More details to be announced.

Later…

We are forming a team to travel to Mexico to partner with “Familia Corazon” for a “build day”. Local college student Natalie Baddorf is putting together the group of 30 to 50 volunteers to make the trip on July 19th. All you need: a passport, a hammer, a pair of gloves and a good attitude. Sign up with John Bouyer for the carpool.

14th Annual Car Show Draws Thousands to Old Towne

Over 400 classics, customs, hotrods & streetrods rolled into the Orange Plaza on April 20th. 15,000 spectators enjoyed two live bands, great shopping, terrific food from our local restaurants and famous Old Towne hospitality.

Trophies were presented by Miss City of Orange, Emily Brandenburg, and famous Hollywood auto designer George Barris. Thank you to Randy Morton of Rock ‘n Roll Custom Paintworks and all of our sponsors for making this show our best ever: Villa Ford, Orange Community Bank, Selman Chevrolet, Oxygen Services Company and more than two dozen other vendors and sponsors.

Need more car show facts? Visit the show website at www.orangesunriserotary.org/carshow.

“Virtual Food Drive” Takes a Test Spin

The Community Action Partnership recently launched a new concept in giving: the Virtual Food Drive. To refill the empty shelves of the Orange County Food Bank, the call went out to Rotarians in District 5320. Many clubs conducted traditional food drives on April 26th, “Rotarians at Work Day”. Orange Sunrise (recovering from car show muscle pulls and other ailments) tried out the new online system. Together with 5 other clubs in the District, more than $1,000 was raised in cash donations. Thank you to everyone who sent emails to friend, relatives and business associates to help in this effort!

Mark Your Calendars

March 27 – “Rotary Shares” Area Speech Contest, noon, Turnip Rose, Orange

March 27 – Car Show Planning Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Grand Street Center

April 5 – District Assembly – Beckman Hall, Chapman University 8:00 a.m.

April 16 – Car Show “Bag and Tag” – goodie bag and raffle collection. 5:00 p.m., Grand Street Center

April 17 – Car Show Sponsor VIP Reception – 5:30 p.m., Cask ‘n Cleaver Steakhouse

April 18 – Business Rotarian of the Year – 11:30 a.m., Turnip Rose, 300 S. Flower, Orange

April 20 – 14^th Annual Orange Plaza Car Show!

April 26 – Rotarians at Work Day Food Drive

Rotary Clubs of Orange Join Forces for Police and Fire Awards

The Rotary Clubs of Orange, Orange North and Orange Sunrise held the 34th Annual Police and Fire Recognition Awards on March 20, 2008 at the Turnip Rose in Orange. All three clubs attended the luncheon, held to honor the Police Officer of the Year, Firefighter of the Year, police and fire Explorers of the year, top managers in both departments and outstanding civilian employees.

The sold out event was attended by Orange County Supervisor Bill Campbell, Orange Mayor Carolyn Cavecche and Orange councilpersons Jon Dumitru, Tita Smith, and Denis Bilodeau. Members of Police Explorer Post 266 presented the colors, as advisor Marla McGee (RC of Cypress) and Past District Governor Lane Calvert (Anaheim), looked on from the audience. Erin Kociela (RC of Tustin-Santa Ana) led the crowd in singing “America the Beautiful, including special verses not usually heard.

It was a bit of challenge for attendees to get to the luncheon, as only an hour before, the DEA requested the city’s assistance with a raid a mile from the venue. Several blocks of Chapman Avenue were closed to traffic for hours, as Orange fire, police and SWAT teams assisted in the search for suspects in the area. Although “the incident” kept Police Chief Bob Gustafson away, Lt. Dave Hill of the Orange Police Department returned as Master of Ceremonies and presented the honors to that department’s top picks. Police Officer of the year Augusto Rocha appeared to accept his award in his “Special Enforcement Detail” plainclothes, and then immediately returned to the DEA operation.

Orange Fire Department Chief Bart Lewis presented the plaques, certificates and trophies to members of his department, including Firefighter of the Year Keith Marshall.

Photo: From left – Orange Fire Chief Bart Lewis, Fire Explorer of the Year Brandt Loucks, Fire Civilian Employee of the Year Rena Davis, Firefighter of the Year Keith Marshall.

Last Chance to Save $40!!!

Register today for the Rotary International Convention, hitting town (LA) June 15-18. Two reasons to sign up before March 31: our District receives a rebate from registrations prior to that date. But the best reason is that you will save $40!!

Don’t miss the best opportunity you may have to attend an international convention at an affordable price and convenient location! Sign up today at www.Rotary2008.com.

Youth Programs in the Spotlight

El Modena High School student Matt Halchoski will represent Orange Sunrise in the area level competition of the District 5320 Annual Speech Contest. Matt and students representing the Rotary clubs of Orange, Orange North and Villa Park will speak on this year’s theme “Rotary Shares”. The competition will be held at noon, Thursday March 27th, during the regular meeting of the Orange club. Lunch is at the Turnip Rose, 300 S. Flower, Orange. $20 payable at the door.

The El Modena Interact Club will be our guests at our regular meeting at 5:30 p.m., at the Grand Street Center. This rapidly growing and active club will discuss the many service activities that have participated in this year and discuss plans for the future–including assisting with the Orange Plaza Car Show, attending Rotary International Convention, and supporting Aids Walk Orange County.

This year’s scholarship recipients for the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards have been selected for the camping adventure set to begin April 25th. Orange Sunrise will send three campers this year.

Rotary Reaches for Record

This year, the 30,000 Rotarians attending the Rotary International convention in Los Angeles are asked to bring a book for the “Wide World of Books” children’s book drive. The drive is the commemorative project of the Los Angeles convention. Help build a “mountain of books” and break the official record for the most books collected in a single book drive! The publishers of the Guinness Book of Records have already been alerted! How you can help:

• Collect new and gently used children’s books from family, friends and neighbors
• Pick up gently used children’s books for next to nothing at garage sales, thrift shops and “friends of the library” sales
• Hit the 99 cent stores for great deals on kids books
• Toss your change in a mini “Reading by 9” bank. Save it up for pre-convention spending spree!

Bring your books to any club meeting from now through May. Remember–it’s Reading by 9, so no adult books please! Books for K through fourth grade, in any language, will be donated to Southern California schools.