https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85900479873
Doubletree, 1011 W Holmes
Mesa, AZ 85210 United States of America
Our hybrid meetings are held weekly on the 1st thru 4th Thursdays of each month. The meetings are broadcast via Zoom to include all, whether attending virtually or in person.
Incoming officers and directors are strongly encouraged to take advantage of the excellent learning and networking opportunities available to those to attend the Club Leadership Academy Saturday March 8 at Paradise Valley Community College Conference Center..
One of the offerings will be District Grant Training. Grants Management Seminar, Sessions 1 and 2 will be offered at CLA. Our club should try to have at least two members attend these sessions. The information can change from year to year, so having taken it in the past doesn't mean you know all you need to know.
For those who want to attend the Grants Management Seminar, but are not free on March 8, an in-person trainng in the Phoenix area is in the process of being planned for March 15. The location has not yet been announced. A Zoom training will also be offered March 19. Registration information will be sent for this opportunity in early March.
CLICK HERE or on the image to learn more as well as register for CLA.
March 21 - Rotary Day at the Park - Cubs Spring Training Game. $49/person for full-dues members - $74/person for discounted dues-paying members and guests. We are currently "sold out". CLICK HEREto email Jeanie Morgan to be added to a waiting list in case there are cancellations.
ASU Edson Entrepreneurship+Innovation Institute and The Mesa West Rotary Club Present the Igniting Innovation Venture Challenge to Support Young Entrepreneurs.
It was recently announced to the public that the Mesa West Rotary Club, in partnership with ASU J. Orin Edson Entrepreneurship + Innovation Institute (Edson E+I), is thrilled to announce the community pitch competition, Igniting Innovation Venture Challenge. This event is designed to empower young local entrepreneurs by providing a platform for them to pitch innovative business ideas that address community needs and drive sustainable impact in the creative technology industries. The Challenge is the culminating event for the 3-month Innovation Series being hosted by Edson E+I at The Studios @ Mesa City Center.
The Igniting Innovation Venture Challenge will feature a panel of esteemed judges, including successful entrepreneurs, investors, government and business leaders, who will offer mentorship, guidance, and funding for promising ventures. This exciting event showcases the spirit of innovation in Mesa and ASU, highlighting ventures that have the potential to transform the local economy and inspire the next generation of business leaders.
"We’re excited to bring the Igniting Innovation Venture Challenge to our community," said Gerald Paulus, President of the Mesa West Rotary Club. "Our Theme This year within our District, is “Rotary Means Business” and this initiative aligns with our commitment to fostering young entrepreneurship, local economic development and supporting innovative thinkers. By giving young entrepreneurs a stage to present their ideas and learn from experienced professionals, we’re helping them turn their visions into reality." Applications will open on January 27, 2025 and close on February 21st 2025. https://entrepreneurship.asu.edu/e_i_events/
The Igniting Innovation Venture Challenge in person event will take place on March 27, 2025 from 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm at The Studios @ Mesa City Center. Aspiring entrepreneurs are encouraged to submit their applications by February 21st 2025. Selection criteria include the originality of the business venture and demonstrate that income is already being generated, the feasibility of the business plan, and the potential for growth and community impact.
In addition to the opportunity to pitch their ideas, selected entrepreneurs will benefit from:
Mentorship: Direct guidance and expert advice from the panel of judges.
Networking: Access to a network of professionals who can provide valuable connections and resources.
Exposure: Increased visibility through media coverage and community support.
Funding: Potential investment from the judges and other investors attending the event.
"We have created a supportive, inclusive environment where young entrepreneurs can thrive," said Kristin Slice, Director of Community Entrepreneurship, Edson E+I. "Our goal is to empower participants with the knowledge, resources, and confidence they need to succeed in today’s competitive business world."
Registration for the event may be found here and applications may also be found there. Community members are encouraged to attend to support local entrepreneurs, and witness firsthand the innovative ideas shaping our community.
Here are the important points: The pricing includes shipment directly to you. Please make certain you use the physical address that you would like for shirt to be shipped when completing the order form.
A portion of your payment will go to support youth services in our Rotary District - RYLA, Junior RYLA, Interact, and Rotary Youth Exchange.
Due to the various styles and numerous sizes within each style, it is not practical to order shirts in advance. Also, we have a 100 total shirt minimum from the vendor to get the best pricing available. Therefore, we need to get 100 shirts ordered and prepaid so that we can place the order with the vendor. Our goal is to have 100+ shirts ordered by March 8, 2025. As soon as we reach that goal we will place the order and you should receive your shirt within 2-3 weeks after the order is placed with the vendor.
To order, please go to the order website to select your shirt(s) and then to the GivSum website to pay. You must do both to complete your order. As soon as we have your order and confirmation of the payment on GivSum, you will be on the order list.
To enter your shipping address, select your shirt(s), and place your order, click HERE
For questions please text Dan Coons at 480-216-7836
If you prefer to do this sort of thing using a QR code, click the image or CLICK HERE to download a poster which has both QR codes you will need for the 2-step process.
John Bunyard offered the invocation and Eric Silverberg led the Pledge of Allegiance.
President Jay asked John Pennypacker to introduce a special guest on Zoom
John introduced Marilyn Mercer who was attending the meeting via Zoom. She is a member of the Rotary E Club of Greater Sydney in Australia. It was 6:00 AM Friday in her part of the world. She had recently asked John to participate in one of her club's meetings via Zoom. They kept asking him questions. He thought they just wanted to hear how we speak English. Marilyn said her background is a beach area which is next to a golf course. She said it was summer there and the temperature forecast was 95º Fahrenheit on Friday. She plans to attend the RI convention in Calgary this summer.
Introduction of Guests
Shelly Romine is still a member - her dues are paid through March. They have arrived in Washington. She hadn't visited a club there yet, as she was under the weather when they first arrived. She was feeling better and hoped to attend a local club within the next week.
Glen Richardson was in attendance from Calgary. He was promoting some Home Hospitality opportunities available to enable Rotarians attending the International Convention to enjoy some of what the area has to offer including the Calgary Stampede which will take place July 3. He spoke of a train ride that many love because they get to enjoy the pristine beauty of the heartland. He spoke briefly about the '96 "Best Convention Ever" Calgary. and encouraged members to take an enjoyable 1500 mile drive to enjoy the 2025 Calgary RI Convention. CLICK HERE to see the flyer Glen had placed on the tables at the meeting.
Ed Koeneman introduced Jim Bannon
Allan Cady introduced our former member Greg Okonowski who is now a member of the Queen Creek Rotary Club. Greg was known as a big eater when he was in Mesa West. It's a good idea not to follow him in the buffet line. There might not be much left.
Blaise Vitale introduced himself. He is a Rotarian from Grantsburg, Wisconsin who came to Arizona to get away from the snow.
Rotarian Wayne Barefoot was again visiting from Pennsylvania. They will remain part-year residents as they don't think they could stand the summer heat. He introduced his guest - his brother - who is from Bloomfield, Ontario Canada. Wayne is pretty sure Jim will be a member of their Rotary Club soon.
Brenda and David Brandhorst were visiting from the Queen Creek Rotary Club.
Connie Bunyard introduced our speaker, Susan Wahlers, saying they've been friends for many years.
President Jay's MVP for February
President Jay asked members to stand while Jeanie Morgan was recognized. Her certificate which said, in part, "As our Executive Secretary, Cub Social Media Expert and the Heart of the Club, Jeanie has united members and brought us closer together, fostering a sense of community, camaraderie and pride." Jay kept calling Jeanie a young lady. Jeanie corrected him on that point. At 82, that description doesn't pass the "Is it the truth?" test.
Ace of Clubs Raffle - Chuck Flint
Chuck explained that the proceeds of ticket sales are split three ways. A third goes to the club operating account. Another third is the small pot which goes to the person whose ticket is drawn. The small pot was $40 at this meeting. The final third gets added to the accumulating large pot, which was up to $780. To win the large pot, the weekly winner would have to draw the Ace of Clubs (which we believe we are) from the cards remaining in the deck. The other way the weekly winner might possibly win a little more, would be to draw the joker, in which case they would get an additional $20. When the large pot is over $500, only members of Mesa West Rotary can participate. Chuck added to Allan Cady's allegation about visitor Greg Okonowski being a big eater. He said that Greg might possibly need a building permit to go through the buffet line. Chuck said that anyone going to Calgary for the Convention should treat themselves to some enjoyable dining pleasure at the Salt Lick.
Chuck asked Glen Richardson to draw the winning ticket. It was held by Warren Williamson. After Warren shuffled the cards, the card he drew was the Seven of Spades.
Happy Bucks
John Pennypacker was happy that 56 years ago, he exchanged "I do's" with Betsy. He rounded that number up to $60 to contribute to this year's sponsor campaign.
Deb Koeneman pledged $100 to the sponsor program. They have a new daughter-in-law and a new grandson.
Glen Richardson hopes to see many in the room again in Calgary.
Blaise Vitale contributed.
Eric Silverberg contributed celebrating a great hockey game.
Allan Cady said the idea for our sponsor club came from Past President John Eagleston. He felt like raising money from personal donations, and asking for donations from each of our circles of influence would take much less personal time for members than would have to be invested to raise a similar amount of money at a public event. Since implementing his idea, we've averaged about $50,000 each year. One year, we raised $60,000. It gives each of us a chance to share why we are members of Rotary. It can be surprising who will want to support what they see you personally supporting with your time and energy. Donations have come from clients, dry-cleaners, family-members. A lot of us have most of our needs well met. When someone asks what we want for a special occasion, just think what might happen if you said. "I don't need anything, but I would be truly honored if you would give what you would have spent on a gift to my club's charitable foundation to support the things we do that I truly believe in." Allan said one year he was impressed that 80% of our members either made a donation or were able to bring in a contribution.
Polly Cady was happy to have so many visitors at the meeting - and was glad Shelly and Marilyn from Australia were both attending on Zoom. Polly added that a "new member orientation" meeting is being planned for Saturday, May 17 from 8:30 to Noon at Pam Cohen's home.
Penny May said it was good to be at the meeting. She'd had a cold, but is well now and glad to be among her Rotary friends.
Wayne Barefoot was glad his brother came for three weeks. Wayne's wife has been in Toronto taking care of her terminally ill sister. She did get down here for a visit but had to get back to Canada. He said he was happy he got to spend time with her but shredded the "to do" list after she left.
Brian Harvey shared something that would make you cry. He said every two minutes a young boy or girl is before a judge because they were born into the wrong family. People like Rotarians are needed to raise them.
Jack Rosenberg said his granddaughter Danielle gave birth to a baby boy on the 19th of February making Jack a Grand Poppy and Frank a Poppy.
Dick Myren shared that he and Rod Daniels participated in a Rotary Golf Fellowship event in Calgary. He told about seeing bear where the desserts were.
Harry Grossman said he was decluttering his condo. He had something that he would sell for $1 if nobody wanted it he would take it to Goodwill or next door to Bookman's.
President Jay said he'd been notified that he only had two weeks to get the disc ready to be sent to the moon later this year.
Warren Williamson shared that Bill Eaton who was a PDG and member of the Mesa Baseline Rotary Club rode bulls at the Calgary Stampede when he was younger. He also shared a story about something overheard in a Catholic confessional. A male voice was heard telling about meeting a beautiful young lady in a lounge when he was travelling. He said he bought her a drink, and she invited him to her room where he said he had to most exciting time of his life. The priest asked when was the last time he'd been to confession. The person in the confessional said "Never, I'm not Catholic." The priest asked, "Why are you telling me this?" The answer - "I'm telling everyone!"
Announcements
Brenda Broadhorst invited members to participate in the Queen Creek Rotary Club's 3rd annual Walk/Run for Resilience to raise funds and awareness of the mental health issues facing young people. They started holding the event when they were a Satellite Club. The gold is o help eliminate teen suicide, support foster care, and a school - Canon State Academy, and Hope Mental Health Facility. The event will be held April 26 CLICK HERE to go to their registration site.
Gary Whiting is working on the Adopt-a-Family help Mesa West will be providing to some individuals directly impacted by the California fires.
March 21 is Rotary Day at the Park - the Cubs Spring Training baseball game. Our block of tickets has been sold. We have a waiting list. Reply to the Messenger if you want to be added to the list.
March 27 will be the final event of Ignite Innovation. 30 candidates will be reduced down to the final five. Put the event on your calendar. CLICK HERE to see an article about the event recently published by the Mesa Tribune. The ages of the entrepreneurs making their pitches will be under 30.
In April we will be looking for a joint project for Mesa West Members to join with other local Rotarians for a Rotary Week of Service Project. More information to come on this.
District Governor Michelle Holcomb did a great job of promoting the Rotary license plate that is now available when she made her official visit to our club September 26. Mesa West Rotary members often lead the way. We want to encourage our members to get their plates purchased so we can be known for having the highest percentage of members displaying the Rotary license plate on their car(s). To that end, we have two incentives to offer:
The first Mesa West Rotary Club member who can honestly tell a story about how they met someone who showed interest in Rotary because of their plate AND that conversation resulted in an approved membership application into Mesa West Rotary or any other Rotary District 5495 club will get one free quarter of their Mesa West Rotary Club dues.
CLICK HERE or on Michelle's photo to go to the order form on the MVD website, scroll down alphabetically and get yours ordered.
Well, maybe NOT the shirt off your back, but instead some old t-shirts out of the back of your closet.
Westwood Interact Club will again be making dog chew toys for a couple of animal shelterswhere the Paws For Peers program rescues and trains dogs to work as therapy animals with teachers within Mesa Public Schools. .They make these dog toys out of old t-shirts. So, dig way back into your closet, or that drawer where all your old stuff is, and bring a shirt or two to lunch at one of our Thursday meetings this September.
As most of you know, Arizona has a very unique state tax credit program. If you pay taxes to the state of Arizona, you can specify where your tax dollars go (state taxes only). These instructions are for your reference only. Please consult a tax prep professional with any specific questions about state tax credits.
There are many different nonprofit organizations that AZ recognizes as authorized recipients of these tax funds. Mesa West sponsors the Interact Club at Westwood High School, and they are a qualified recipient of these tax credit funds in the Extra Curricular Activities (ECA) category. Here's how you can donate up to $200 as an individual or $400 as a couple filing jointly and deduct that amount from your state tax burden.
If you have children currently enrolled in Mesa Public Schools, you can use your existing login information. Otherwise, it's easy to setup a guest account.
Once you are logged in, select 'Items At All Schools'under the 'Shop/Donate' list on the Home page.
On the next page select 'High Schools', then select 'Westwood High'
Select the link for 'ECA Tax Credit', and then 'Programs G-K' on the following page.
Interact - ECA is under code 8646. Enter a dollar amount in the box, and click the Add button. That dollar amount should then appear in your cart (highlighted in green at the top of the page).
You can then proceed to the Checkout process and pay with a credit card. You will receive a receipt that you can print out and save for when you do your taxes.
Thank you for supporting Westwood Interact and all of our youth programs.
As Rotarians, we are regularly exposed to opportunities to support various causes with our time, talent and treasure. Sometimes it is hard to sift through all the information and decide where we are going to use our available financial resources.
It would be wonderful if every Arizona Rotarian would make the following BIG FOUR their Rotary charities of choice and support every one of them every year, we could make a bigger difference than we are making today.
The Rotary Foundation (TRF) Annual Fund - The Rotary Foundation transforms your gifts into service projects that change lives both close to home and around the world." Giving a small amount each month adds up. CLICK HERE to download a form you can use to sign up for Rotary Direct, electing "Annual Fund - Share" for your recurring donation.
The Rotary Foundation (TRF) Polio Plus - Rotary's commitment to eradicate polio is so well known and respected that the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation matches donations $2 for $1. To take advantage of this opportunity to multiply the effect of your giving, CLICK HERE and download a second Rotary Direct form, this time electing electing "Polio Eradication" for your recurring donations. Those who donate $100 or more annually to Polio Plus qualify in District 5495 as Polio Plus Society Members. If you would like to make that commitment, CLICK HERE to download the commitment form.
The Rotary Vocational Fund of Arizona (TRVFA) provides vocational education grants to Arizona Residents who meet specific low-income guidelines. The grants enable the recipients to lift themselves out of poverty, benefitting themselves, their families and the economy of our state. TRVFA is a 501(c)(3) charity. They also are a Qualifying Charitable Organization for Arizona Tax Credit Donations. Their QCO Code is 20698. Many Arizona Rotarians say giving to TRVFA is a "no brainer." If you can help someone lift themselves out of poverty and it won't end up costing you anything why would you not do it? Mesa West Rotary has the highest number of members who have signed up for automated monthly recurring donations by electing that option on the "Donate Now" button on the TRVFA website. Click the image to learn more or CLICK HERE to DONATE NOW.
Mesa West Rotary Foundation, Inc. is the funding and fundraising arm of our own Mesa West Rotary Club. It is a 501(c)(3) charity. We have had successful sponsorship campaigns the last few years enabling us to spend our energy on service rather than on holding fundraising events. Charitable grants that we get involved with are funded through our charitable foundation, Our signature Gift of Hearing Project in Guaymas Mexico is funded through this foundation. Scholarships are awarded annually to Westwood High School Students (the high school where Mesa West Rotary sponsors an Interact Club). Funds are used to support a variety of activities in four of the Rotary Avenues of Service:
Community Service
International Service
Vocational Service
Youth Service
The process isn't quite automated at this point in time, but we hope it soon will be. For now, you can email our executive secretary who can help you work out a recurring donation plan should you wish to make that arrangement to support our own club's charitable activity.
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Announcements
Well, maybe NOT the shirt off your back, but instead some old t-shirts out of the back of your closet. 
As most of you know, Arizona has a very unique state tax credit program. If you pay taxes to the state of Arizona, you can specify where your tax dollars go (state taxes only). These instructions are for your reference only. Please consult a tax prep professional with any specific questions about state tax credits.
Mesa West Rotary Foundation, Inc. is the funding and fundraising arm of our own Mesa West Rotary Club. It is a 501(c)(3) charity. We have had successful sponsorship campaigns the last few years enabling us to spend our energy on service rather than on holding fundraising events. Charitable grants that we get involved with are funded through our charitable foundation, Our signature Gift of Hearing Project in Guaymas Mexico is funded through this foundation. Scholarships are awarded annually to Westwood High School Students (the high school where Mesa West Rotary sponsors an Interact Club). Funds are used to support a variety of activities in four of the Rotary Avenues of Service: