2024 Newark Rotary Report

TO OUR COMMUNITY NEWARK MORNING ROTARY

REP RT 2024

A word from the President Newark Morning Rotary Club

The 2023-2024 year has been an exceptional year for the Newark Morning Rotary Club!

Notably, our club celebrated the 25th anniversary of its formation this year! It was impressive to look back and note all the contributions this club has made to our community. Our Report to the Community has also raised just short of $1 million in two decades, with every penny of profits going directly to service projects.

This year, we continued to support programs such as Easterseals, The Food Bank, dictionaries for 3rd graders, hygiene kits for schoolgirls, birthday boxes for seniors, and holiday gifts for underprivileged children, just to name a few of them. Our amazing Flags for Heroes committee upped the ante and raised even more funds to support our veterans and law enforcement. If you haven’t seen our 400+ flags waving in the wind around the Newark reservoir on Veteran’s Day each year, you are really missing something.

Our club launched the first IMPACT Club in Delaware this year, enabling those who want to do service but can’t attend regular Rotary meetings. This group has already made contributions to our community. IMPACT is a different model for Rotary and we are eager to see how it will grow and evolve.

Of course, everything we do is possible only through the efforts of our amazing members and generosity of our many supporters found on the pages of this publication. We are so grateful to all of them. Despite our progress, there is always more to do and our club stands ready to do its part for our community.

I offer my most sincere thanks to all our members, their families, our volunteers, and our supporters. Our accomplishments would not be possible without all of you.

Thanks again!

Stewart Lee Club President, 2024

Dedicated to Service

Rotary club dedicated to serving the community before self

Nearly a quarter century has passed since this club started. But the members of the Newark Morning Rotary club have continued determination to use their time, talents and resources to serve the community – both locally and internationally. From the first organizational meeting in December of 1998, the members have dedicated themselves to the motto of Rotary, Service Above Self. Nearly $975,000 has been raised over the past 25 years through Reports to the Community

We give money when vital and time when time is of the essence. When this club was organized in 1999, it vowed to have only one fund raiser each year. However, the opportunity to display flags and earmark the profits to a specific cause was enticing. Five years later, it is one of the most recognized projects by the public. In November 2023, nearly $27,000 was raised through sponsorships of Flags

For Heroes project. In April 2024, nearly $45,000 was collected in sales advertising from this 2024 Report to the Community, with one hundred percent of the profits earmarked for community service projects.

In Rotary year July 2022 to June 2023, under President Clinton Tymes, this club had a banner year of completing 41 projects, volunteered about 1.6 thousand hours, gave about $95,000 in cash contributions of all kinds, and

Rotary Opens Opportunities

Each July a new leader takes the helm as president of Rotary International. As leader of one of the largest global service organizations, the new president presents their theme for the year as a guide or inspiration Rotarians around the world.

R. Gordon R. McInally in July 2023 took the helm of the 1.2 million member organization.

McInally’’s presidential theme is Create Hope in the World.

McInally attended the University of Dundee, where he earned his graduate degree in dental surgery.

He operated his own dental practice in Edinburgh until 2016.

Gordon joined Rotary in 1984 at age 26. A member of the Rotary Club of South Queensferry, he has served as president and vice president of Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland.

He also served RI as a director and on several committees, most recently as an adviser to the 2022 Houston Convention.

Gordon says he looks forward to working with members to build new Rotary clubs and groups.

“My vision is that Rotary should exist everywhere in a style to suit everyone who has the desire to be part of us and to help us do good in the world,” he says.

He is also an ambassador for Bipolar UK, a national mental health organization. In August 2022, he was made a laureate of the Sino Phil Asia International Peace Awards Foundation.

Gordon describes The Rotary Foundation as “the engine that provides the energy to do Rotary service.” He and his spouse, Heather, also a Rotarian, are Paul Harris Fellows, Major Donors, Benefactors of The Rotary Foundation, and members of the Bequest Society.

Doug Rainey, editor

donated about $9,000 in services and goods. We are proud of our accomplishments.

Advertiser list

4 Sight Technology Services..................................................Page 32

Action Unlimited..................................................................Page 46

A.R. Morris Jewelers.............................................................Page 24

Austin & Bednash Construction Inc......................................Page 18

Behavior Health Consortium................................................Page 28

BHH Fox & Roach.................................................................Page 81

Black Bear Archery...............................................................Page 46

Bloom Energy........................................................................Page 79

Blue Hen Chiropractic Wellness...........................................Page 54

Blue Skies Travel...................................................................Page 73

Boulden Brothers..................................................................Page 78

Cameras Etc..........................................................................Page 56

Camp Bow Wow....................................................................Page 33

Club Phred............................................................................Page 60

Club Pilates............................................................................Page 21

Concord Financial Group......................................................Page 23

Courtyard Marriot................................................Inside Back Cover

Cover & Rossiter......................................................................Page 3

Creek Links............................................................................Page 61

D&S Warehousing.................................................................Page 81

Daddy O’s..............................................................................Page 25

David V. Bonk & Associates LLC...........................................Page 14

Dawson Wealth Management.........................................Back Cover

Delaware Business Now........................................................Page 46

Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists........................................Page 18

Delaware Today/Today Media Inc. .......................................Page 7

Delaware Window Supply.....................................................Page 81

Diamond State Photography................................................Page 56

Ed Gossett Jr.........................................................................Page 18

Edward Jones/Mike Laur.....................................................Page 82

First Presbyterian Church.....................................................Page 37

Flags for Heroes..........................................................Center Spread

Garvey Plumbing..................................................................Page 60

Gellert Scali Busenkell & Brown, LLC..................................Page 58

Giordano DelCollo Werb & Gagne, LLC ..............................Page 58

Graze Craze............................................................................Page 61

Griswold Home Care.............................................................Page 38

Harford Bank.........................................................................Page 21

Hillside Heating & Cooling...................................................Page 76

Home Grown Cafe.................................................................Page 77

Hyde, Steve and Lisa.............................................................Page 46

i.g. Burton Auto Group/Newark...........................................Page 54

Iron Hill Science Center........................................................Page 23

Jason Lawhorn City Council.................................................Page 21

John Mager...........................................................................Page 81

K&S Garage Inc.....................................................................Page 20

King Print & Promo...............................................................Page 24

Law Offices of James P. Curran............................................Page 27

Legislators to Dover..............................................................Page 26

Martuscelli Restaurant Group..............................................Page 20

Mey’s Aquatics......................................................................Page 23

MGK Writing Solutions........................................................Page 11

Moon Air, Inc. ......................................................................Page 32

New Castle County, Matt Meyer..........................................Page 73

Newark Arts Alliance............................................................Page 59

Newark Morning Rotary Club................................................Page 9

Newark Parks & Recreation..................................................Page 37

Newark Urgent Care.............................................................Page 30

Patterson Shwartz, Brooke Kelly..........................................Page 56

Prices Corner Car Wash........................................................Page 27

RBC Wealth Management/Paul Karcher..............................Page 21

reNu Medical & Injury Center..............................................Page 27

Revival Tree Care................................................................Page 20

Rosewood Farms..................................................................Page 11

R.T. Foard Funeral Home...................................Inside Front Cover

SBA Delaware.......................................................................Page 54

SDS Inc.................................................................................Page 45

Sherms Catering...................................................................Page 31

Saint Marks High School........................................................Page 7

State Line Liquors................................................................Page 30

Swiatowicz Dental Associates...............................................Page 24

The Newark Partnership......................................................Page 45

The Vero at Newark..............................................................Page 55

UD Resident Ensemble Players..........................................Page 28 W.L. Gore.............................................................................Page 59 Washington House Condominiums.....................................Page 14 Weiner Benefits Group.........................................................Page 32 Western New Castle Region Republican Committee...........Page 47 WSFS Bank, Regional..........................................................Page 80 WSFS Bank, Local.................................................................Page 56 Young Conaway.....................................................................Page 51 ..

Story index

About our members........................................................ Page 66-72

Boulden Brothers Cares........................................................Page 52 Flags for Heroes....................................................................Page 19

Jeffrey Lee Curry wins Public Service Award.......................Page 44 Ladies of morning rotary.......................................................Page 15

Lori’s Hands..........................................................................Page 65

Making an IMPACT..............................................................Page 35

Making birthdays special for shut in senior citizens............Page 64

Mary Torbey wins Civatte Award.........................................Page 40

Morning Rotarians clean up a historic highway..................Page 53

Newark Morning Rotary’s 25th Anniversary..................Page 62-63

PAL mobile center builds bridges.........................................Page 16

Pitching in to help Nigerian girls stay in school..................Page 49

Profile of President...............................................................Page 29

Rotary gives back....................................................................Page 5

Rotary’s hybrid meetings......................................................Page 22

Rotarians support Easterseals..............................................Page 41

Service project benefits fellow students..............................Page 17

Shoes That Fit.......................................................................Page 36

Tymes, Keely named Rotarians of the Year.........................Page 48

TheNewark Morning Rotary Club gratefully acknowledges and appreciates the support of the businesses and individuals who advertise in this Report. Their generosity has funded the preparation, printing, and distribution of the 2024 Report to the Community. All proceeds, which stood at $44,000 at press time, will go directly back into the community through donations, awards, support of local businesses, and Rotary service projects. Members of the club ask readers to patronize these supporters and tell them that they appreciate the financial support they have provided.

2024 Report to The Community

is published by the

Newark Morning Rotary Club

Stewart Lee, President

Cindi Viviano, VP of Fundraising/Report Project Manager

John Hornor, Co-Project Specialist

Doug Rainey, Editor

Nicolette Kahler, Designer/Pagination

Bill Sullivan, Photographer

Cover photo by Kathy Atkinson

™2024 Newark Morning Rotary Club, DE

Thank you

To Rotarian Doug Rainey for editing this year’s Report to Our Community.

To Nicolette Kahler for taking on the graphic design duties. Even though the articles are written by Rotarians, and include pictures taken by them, it is Nicolette who makes it all come to life.

Deepest thanks to Rotarian Robin Broomall for her 23 years of editing and organizing the report.

Website: www.nmrde.org

Follow us on Facebook! http:// www.facebook.com/pages/NewarkMorning-Rotary-Club/79380101585

Helping our Canine Friends

This year, Morning Rotary members spent time during a recent meeting to make dog chew toys. Following instructions from member Robin Broomall, left, they carefully braided the brightly colored toys from strips of fleece. Twenty of the toys were donated to the Humane Society in Stanton for the canines waiting for adoption. Another 25 were on sale at Camp Bowwow, owned by Rotarian Laurie Williams, right. All donations went to the Bow Wow Foundation to help families in need of medical attention for their beloved canines.

SERVICE CONTINUED

With a larger display and sponsorships of Flags For Heroes over Veterans Day 2023, the Newark Morning Rotarians committed to distributing 100% of the profits to military, veterans and youth groups. They proudly distributed $26,500 to the following organizations:

 Healing Waters

 Beds4Vets

 Delaware Military Academy

 Delaware Military Museum

 Wreaths Across America

 Newark Police Athletic League (PAL)

 Chair of Honor (to be constructed in Newark)

Here is a list of the other accomplishments of Newark Morning Rotary Club for the past year.

 Twice a year members helped sort food items and fill backpacks for school children at the Food Bank of Delaware. Food was distributed through the schools to those who were financially constrained. Cases of non perishables were filled for distribution to the community.

 The Food Bank also received $750 to purchase turkeys for holiday meals for its recipients.

 A check for $4,000 was presented to Stop Soldier Suicide.

 Lori’s Hands, a UD community health program,

continued to receive our support through hands-on activities, including yard cleanup in the Spring and Fall.

 In Spring 2023 and again in 2024 this club contributed nearly $10,000 to support youth and young adult clients of Easterseals through camperships for Camp Fairlee and Welcome Bags for the camp counselors.

 The Ladies of Newark Morning, along with some female spouses, collected more than 7,000 menstrual items for local school girls to have available during the summer months. 100 bags were donated to low income and homeless girls in our school district.

 At the Annual Awards dinner, historian and story teller, a long time volunteer with Newark Historic Society Mary Torbey was recognized for her years of service with a plaque and check for $250.

 Boulden Brothers was recognized for its commitment to the community and presented the Spirit in Business award, along with $250 to support its efforts.

 Jeffrey Lee Curry was awarded the Public Service award for his work with Singerly Fire Company. His award recipient was Kay’s Foundation.

 A dinner was hosted for 25 visiting young leaders from countries in Africa attending the UD Mandella Fellows Leadership Training.

Robin Broomall, right, Laurie Williams, left

Dinner honors Mandela Fellows

Every summer, Africa’s future leaders visit the First State and the University of Delaware as Mandela Washington Fellows. The Newark Morning Rotary hosts an annual dinner with Mandela Fellows and guests.

The Fellows, Rotarians and guests get to know one another and share their experiences. Members and guests come away with an appreciation for the diversity, opportunities and challenges facing the many nations on the continent.

More than once, long-term friendships and partnerships have been forged during and after the dinner.

SERVICE CONTINUED

 A table at Community Day was an opportunity to connect with many of our friends and neighbors and share in the good things our club has done over the year. Children also had an opportunity to create birthday cards that were later distributed to seniors in birthday boxes.

 With a little encouragement, 12 members of this club joined many other walkers and runners at the Bloom Energy’s Stars and Strides 5K in November. Proceeds were distributed to veterans’ organizations, an ongoing commitment of the Bloom employees.

 Three times throughout the year members filled special boxes with treats, small books and trinkets as Birthday Boxes for recipients of Meals on Wheels through Newark Senior Center to receive on their birthday. About 150 boxes are filled each year, costing the club about $1,500.

 The American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life, helping to find a cure for cancer, received $500.

 Shoes That Fit of Newark received a donation of $1,000 to purchase and distribute new clothing to needy school children.

 A donation of $395 was made to the Delaware Foundation Reaching Citizens (DFRC) by placing an ad in the 2023 program book of the annual Blue/Gold game.

 More than 800 paperback student dictionaries were purchased and distributed to third graders in the Christina Schools and Newark Charter at a cost of $2,700.

 Thanksgiving turkeys for the Food Bank of Delaware were purchased with a $750 donation from the club.

 An Interact Club continued at Newark Charter High School, sponsored by the Newark Morning Rotarians. This is a high school level service club that is affiliated with a Rotary club.

 An additional Interact club was sponsored at Aspira Academy High School, engaging students in the Global Leadership program.

Specializing in Corporate Events

Indoor & Outdoor Spaces for a variety of activities from Meetings and Team Building to Networking Cocktail Hour

Rotary success depends on good leaders

While Rotary is an international organization, with many humanitarian projects being conducted worldwide, most of the action happens at the local level, with clubs committed to community service. Like all Rotary clubs, the Newark Morning club operates under the standard constitution adopted by Rotary International in 1905.

It provides for a Board of Directors as the governing body, a president and other officers. The officers of each club are elected by their membership to serve one-year terms, beginning July 1 each year.

The Newark Morning club uses the recommended committee plan to carry out its service projects and keep a balanced focus on its mission. The five main committees, or avenues of service, are club, community, international, vocational and Next Generation. Each member chairs at least one project or event per year focused on these areas, but they often assist on many other projects.

The club is a member of Rotary International. The individuals are members of the Newark Morning Rotary Club. Individuals are not members of Rotary International.

The Leaders

July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024

President .......................................Stewart Lee

Vice President .................................. Lynn Mey

Secretary BJ DiDonato

Treasurer ................................. Marie Holliday

Sergeant At Arms .................. Laurie Williams

Director of Membership Paul Keely

Director of Service Projects ..........Tom Minto

Director of Fundraising ............ Cindi Viviano

Director of Foundation Fred Dawson

Director of Administration.....Robin Broomall

Director of Public Image ..............Bill Sullivan

Immediate Past President.... Clinton Tymes

Bell Ringers

During the holiday season, Morning Rotary members join the Salvation Army’s fund-raising effort for the less fortunate at the Boscov’s store southeast of Newark. Shown in left photo are members Bill Sullivan, left, and Shawn Klapinsky. In right photo, from left, are members BJ DiDonato, Lynn Mey and Laura DelPercio.

SERVICE CONTINUED

 Members worked with Aspira students to build a Lending Library, donating expertise and books. See related story.

 Ten members spent their Saturday morning picking up trash for Adopt A Highway on a one-mile stretch of Old Baltimore Pike.

 Small bottles and packs of toiletries were collected and then packed and distributed to a women’s shelter.

 More than 4,000 schoolgirls in Nigeria received menstrual supplies and hygiene training at a cost of $10,000, enabling them to stay in school full time. See related story.

 On evenings in December, members rang the bell for the annual Kettle Drive for Salvation Army.

 After hearing of the need for funds, this club contributed $1,500 to a holiday party for children attending the Rosehill Boys and Girls Club in New Castle. Members personally donated another $2,570 so the children could have gifts and a fun party.

 Junior Achievement of Delaware’s BizTown received $200 to support economic education for school children. Other Rotary clubs will be encouraged to support the program which this club has done since 2005.

 Iron Hill Museum and Science Center was awarded $750 to support their educational programs for youngsters and adults in the community.

 Four students from Newark Charter High were awarded a three- day training program in Ocean City, Md. The Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA) brings about 200 students across Delaware and the Eastern Shore of Md. for fun, fellowship, and leadership training.

 About 20 new toys were donated to the Marines’ Toys For Tots program at Christmas time.

 Our Rotarians have heart! On Valentines Day members collected 600 pounds of non-perishables and delivered them to the Food Bank of Delaware.

 1st State Military Academy was awarded $250 for a leadership program.

Morning Rotary supports youth leaders

Newark Morning Rotary sponsors four students from the Newark Charter High School, Global Studies program. Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is an intensive leadership program for young people ages 14-30. Organized by clubs, districts, or multi-districts, RYLA allows participants to learn new skills through civic engagement and personal and professional development opportunities. From left, Raiyann Wilson, Kelly Patel, Jillian Baer, and teacher Jocelyn Cane, with Rotary Project leader Clinton Tymes. The 4th student was unable to attend.

 In a call for assistance, $500 was contributed to the Rotary District 5000 in Maui to assist with fire relief.

 Shelter Box received $1,000 to provide tents and emergency supplies for families in areas of disaster.

 Members began a trash pickup with the Newark Adopt A Park program, scouring the Reservoir Park for trash.

 The Middletown Odessa Townsend Rotary club received $100 from us to assist in their project to bring eyeglasses and surgeries to Ghana.

 Two members helped with spreading mulch around plantings at the Reservoir Park.

 We were recognized by Easterseals of Delaware for our continued support of the organization year after year with donations of scholarships for summer campers as well as filling Welcome Bags for their summer counselors who come from all over the world. SERVICE CONTINUED

 We care about our canine friends, too, by spending one morning making braided doggie toys from colorful strips of fleece. Twenty were donated to the Humane Society for their doggies waiting for adoption. Another 20 are on sale at Camp Bowwow with proceeds going to the Foundation to support families in need of canine surgeries.

In addition to distributing money raised through the 2023 Report to the Community, Rotarians were quick to dig into their own pockets to support projects in the community.

 Newark Morning Rotarians personally contributed more than $45,500 this past year to The Rotary Foundation’s annual fund to help with international humanitarian programs and its PolioPlus program to eradicate polio from the world. These funds were made possible by the generosity of the club’s members, NOT through the proceeds of the Report to the Community.

 Members of Newark Morning Rotary are 100% in giving personally at least $100 each to The Rotary Foundation.

Ladies of Morning Rotary

Whenthe female members of the Rotary club, along with some female spouses and family members, get together for happy hour, they are not satisfied to just chat. They mean to get something done.

In Spring 2023, the “Ladies of Newark Morning Rotary” got together for a happy hour –just the ladies. Even though they appreciated socializing with the men in the club, they also felt the need for just “female” talk.

Over a glass of wine, the gathering quickly changed their conversation from casual social talk to “what can we do”?

Their first service activity was to fill 50 boxes with treats for the club’s Birthday Box project. The boxes are distributed through Newark Senior Center’s Meals on Wheels for recipients on their birthdays.

A few minutes later, after the second glass of wine, they decided on the theme of Empowering Girls.

Also a theme of Rotary International, projects that empower young girls and women are helping to break down barriers, encourages them to be the best they could be, regardless of their financial situation or educational opportunities.

At a school in Uganda toilets were installed for the schoolgirls and they were educated on menstrual hygiene.

Working in coordination with an initiative in Kenya, women in the villages now identify the problems and solutions of water resources and have started a soap-making business.

Another Rotary initiative helps educate women on cervical cancer in Latin America.

The first theme-initiated project the Ladies of Newark Morning started was to provide hygiene kits for local school girls. (See related story.) They will continue the theme this upcoming year looking for projects that will enable our local girls to break the barriers they thought they faced and to be the best they can be.

PAL mobile center builds bridges

The Newark Morning Rotary Club continues to partner with the Newark Police Department and Newark PAL in building ties with young people.

The Newark Police Department FOP Lodge #4 saw the need to provide opportunities for children and has long-term plans to build a Police Athletic League (PAL) Center. Before funds can be raised to construct an actual center, a traveling mini PAL Center is making a difference, traveling around the city bringing recreational and educational activities to city parks.

During visits to parks, officers have a chance to play games, read books, and interact with the children. In return the children will get to know the officers and build relationships and trust in a stress-free atmosphere where the children live.

The trailer was purchased earlier at a cost of more than $12,000.Newark Morning Rotary contributed more than $6,000 into outfitting the trailer with a wide range of equipment.

The support continued in 2024, with a $3,000 donation that came out of proceeds from Morning Rotary’s Flags for Heroes program.

The trailer has also served as the base of operations for the Presents with Police distribution. Santa is deputized and wears his special blue police suit and gear. More than 80 kids had a better holiday, thanks to the program.

PAL, The Newark Police Department , Newark Parks and Recreation and the community teamed up to brighten the holidays for more than 85 children in 2023 with the distribution of presents. (Photo courtesy of Newark Pal) the dedication of the PAL mobile unit.

Newark Morning Rotary members were on hand for the dedication of the PAL mobile unit.

Service Project benefits fellow students

Students in Global Leadership program collaborated to start a Lending Library for their school, Jadyier, sitting on right, provided the small cabinet to jump start the project. The Lending Library quickly expanded with additional shelving on the walls to hold more donated books.

One group of students at Aspira Charter High School initiated their first service project with the beneficiaries to be their fellow students.

Under the direction of Lisa Westerfield, teacher of the Global Leadership program, fifteen students worked throughout the Fall 2023 semester on a project that would benefit their school.

This class is also sponsored and mentored by the Newark Morning Rotary Club as an Interact Club, a service club for high school-age students.

The newly renovated building opened just two years ago as a charter high school, the first in the state as dual language in Spanish and English. However, the one thing that is missing is a library.

After several conversations and brainstorming sessions in class, the students decided to start a library of donated books that all 500 students in the school could access. The concept of the Lending Library involved all students in the class: some made posters asking for books, some painted and sanded the box, or designed book labels. They made their pitch to the school principal, Debbie Panchisin, and won approval.

After looking at pictures of small boxes you might find on street corners with books to borrow, student Jadyier asked his mother for permission to donate a used cabinet they had in the garage. With some construction advice from Rotarian spouse Jim Broomall, the students agreed on a design and the library box

was on its way to being transformed into a Lending Library.

“This was really a fun project to work on,” said Jadyier. “I know other kids will use these books.”

It was the first time some of them ever used sandpaper or held a paintbrush.

To get started, Rotarians donated books that were age-appropriate for teens, mostly teen romance, horror, or dysphoria. Books in Spanish were most appreciated to help with dual language skills. Many came from their own kids’ collections who had outgrown the books or moved on.

“Many of the kids love to read,” said Westerfield, “but access to local libraries is limited. With parents working and lack of transportation, they just can’t get there.”

Shortly after, the library box was hung on the wall where many students congregate, and additional shelves were hung next to it to hold the many books being donated. A banner designed by Rotarian Paul Keely advertises the project. Each book has a sticker noting it is from the Aspira library.

“We are proud of these students, the way they worked together, problem solved, and matured over the course of the project,” said Rotarian Robin Broomall. “Working with these younger students on service to our communities give us hope for the next generation.”

North Wilmington

3401 Brandywine Parkway

Suite 100, 101 & 202

Wilmington, DE 19803

Stanton

1941 Limestone Road Suite 101

Wilmington, DE 19808

Newark

1082 Old Churchmans Road Suite 100 & 101

Newark, DE 19713

1096 Old Churchmans Road Newark, DE 19713

4923 Ogletown Stanton Road Suite 300

Newark, DE 19713

Middletown

252 Carter Drive

Middletown, DE 19709

EMG Specialist

Erich L. Gottwald, DO

Foot & Ankle

Paul C. Kupcha, MD

Katherine M. Perscky, DPM

Patrick J. Ward, MD

Hand, Wrist & Elbow

Matthew D. Eichenbaum, MD

J. Douglas Patterson, MD

John M. Reynolds, MD

Peter F. Townsend, MD

Joint Replacement

Steven M. Dellose, MD

Nick N. Patel, MD

James J. Rubano, MD

Non-Operative

Sports Medicine

Matthew K. Voltz, DO

Plastics

Benjamin Cooper, MD

Shoulder

Brian J. Galinat, MD

Spine

Mark S. Eskander, MD

Amir Kader, MD

Akul S. Patel, MD

John P. Rowlands, MD

Selina Y. Xing, MD

Sports Medicine Surgeons

Damian M. Andrisani, MD

Alfonso J. Arevalo, DO

Joseph J. Mesa, MD

Douglas A. Palma, MD

Trauma

Michael J. Principe, DO

Nicholas F. Quercetti, DO

David M. Tainter, MD

Newark Morning Rotary’s Flags for Heroes returns to majestic setting at reservoir

The hundreds of American flags flying at the Newark Reservoir is a majestic sight only matched by the pride and unity resulting from a collaboration of residents, local businesses and the Newark Morning Rotary.

Flags for Heroes was first held outside the Newark Municipal Building, but now has a more spectacular setting. Flags for Heroes is a program that traditionally honors military veterans by encouraging individuals to sponsor a flag in honor of someone who is a hero in their life. The recognition has been expanded to include other heroes including doctors, nurses, teachers and first responders.

All members of the Newark Police Department are honored with flags.

Proceeds from Flags for Heroes went to organizations serving veterans and the Newark Police Athletic League. The traditional ceremony is held on on brisk fall day to mark the installation of the flags that grace the reservoir area.

The vision of the Newark Morning Rotary was to celebrate and honor these heroes with a patriotic backdrop at one of the most beautiful locations in our state. Bringing this vision to reality took a monumental effort from volunteers, sponsors, local government and businesses.

In keeping with the event’s mission, the club announced a Hero’s Scholarship in honor of our own hero Col. Evelyn Hayes. Each year the club will present a $2,000 scholarship for a young person to attend school and study in the career of a Hero.

Hayes joined the U.S. Army Reserve in 1979 and went on to hold leadership roles in training and administration. She also

served at Supreme Headquarters Allied Power Europe, Fort Jackson, and Walter Reed Hospital. She retired with 23 years of military service with the rank of Colonel. Evelyn went on to a second full career of teaching in the nationally known Nursing program at the University of Delaware,

Businesses from all over Newark supported this effort through sponsorships. These sponsorships, coupled with the individual flag sponsorships, raised over $26,000, with proceeds aiding veterans and first responders.

The feedback from residents and visitors was plentiful and passionate. The view of flags inspired passersby to leave messages and send emails of appreciation, sometimes coupled with a moving story about a loved one who served.

Newark Morning Rotary looks forward to the event continuing to inspire residents and raise needed funds for those who make the community and the world a better place.

Newark Rotary members Robin Broomall, left and Evelyn Hayes embrace after the announcement of a scholarship in honor of Hayes, a retired Army Reserve Colonel and distinguished professor emerita at the University of Delaware.

Karcher

The ‘Owl’ returns as hybrid meetings continue

Thanks to technology you can attend a Newark Morning Rotary meeting from almost anywhere.

The change came when the Covid-19 pandemic took hold in spring 2020, the club quickly pivoted to remote meetings, thanks to wide acceptance and ease of use of Zoom.

Unlike some service clubs here and elsewhere, Newark Morning Rotary, with the help of remote technology , stayed with weekly meetings rather than moving to twice monthly or monthly formats.

For a time, both morning and evening remote meetings were held.

The technology comes with other advantages. One is the ability to bring in speakers from outside the meeting room and even outside the U.S.

Speakers participating virtually included a member of the legendary rock band Queen and a Rotary president in Italy.

Remote access also means that traveling Morning Rotary members can be a part of meetings, time zones and online speeds permitting. PJs are also OK.

As the pandemic waned, the club returned to hybrid meetings with both remote and in-person features.

With the hybrid format came the challenge of how to keep members engaged in the proceedings.

Bill Sullivan who hosts Morning Rotary Meetings at the Courtyard by Marriott University of Delaware

turned to the Meeting Owl Pro, a high-resolution 360-degree camera, mic and sound system, complete with “eyes.”

However, technology changes rapidly and the Owl took a brief break as troubleshooting took place. After a little tweaking, it’s back.

Yes, there are occasional glitches with remote meeting-goers talking while their device is on “mute.”

But remote work is not going away and neither is the Morning Rotary’s c0mmitment to hybrid meetings.

The morning club is at work to make certain that access to meetings remains as smooth as possible.

The Owl scans the room during hybrid meetings

Rotarians Have Heart

Club supports Stars and Strides

Newark Morning Rotary members joined Bloom Energy in November for a fun-filled Veteran’s Day-themed celebration. The annual Bloom Energy Stars and Strides Delaware 5K was followed by family-friendly activities and recognition of veterans and active military. All proceeds benefit veterans and active military in Delaware through the Delaware National Guard Youth Foundation and Stop Soldier Suicide.

Representing you in Dover

Senator David P. Sokola

8th Senatorial District

24 Beech Hill Drive

Newark, DE 19711

Home: 302-239-2193

Senate Office: 302-744-4139

E-mail: david.sokola@delaware.gov

Representative Edward S. Osienski

24th Representative District 110 Michaels Lane

Newark, DE 19713

Home: 302-292-8903

House Office: 302-744-4351

E-mail: edward.osienski@delaware.gov

Rep. Paul S. Baumbach

23rd Representative District 36 Scotch Pine Road

Newark, DE 19711

Cell: 302-562-4546

House Office: 302-744-4351

E-mail: paul.baumbach@delaware.gov

Representative Cyndie Romer

25th Representative District 105 Entre Lane

Newark, DE 19702

Home: 302-455-8365

House Office: 302-744-4351

E-mail: cyndie.romer@delaware.gov

Newark Morning Rotary roster grows under the ‘Lee Way’

StewartLee knew he had a tough act to follow when he took the helm of Newark Morning Rotary from Clinton Tymes.

Tymes and Lee have guided Morning Rotary through a pivotal period that saw a new club formed in Newark and another coming to the end of the road after a half century.

Despite the challenging environment, the morning club has added new members and became the first Rotary in Delaware to form an IMPACT Club.

Stewart credits the growth to work that preceded his time as president.

“Clinton did an terrific job with our club during a very unique year. It has felt like a big responsibility trying to follow his lead,” Stewart says. “I’m happy to report that our membership has grown during my time as president, but that growth is due largely to the efforts of our membership committee, led by Paul Keely.”

Like many of his predecessors, Lee planted deep roots in Newark.

Originally from Baltimore and a graduate of the University of Virginia, Stewart and his wife Kathy have resided in Newark for 26 years, raising two daughters, now grown.

Stewart is Chief Administrator Officer with Harford Bank based in Harford County, Md.

In his leisure time, Stewart, has been known to play a round or two of golf. After playing a lot of sports while growing up, he remains an avid fan.

Vacations are another priority. “As a family, we like to do a bit of traveling and spend a good amount of time in Bethany Beach.”

Asked about his reason for joining Morning Rotary, Stewart says that after coming of a board, he was looking to join a group that was active in making positive changes in the community.”

President, Stewart Lee

As for agreeing to serve in the top post, Stewart says “Taking a leadership role was not something I was seeking but I saw it as an opportunity to help the club.”

He emphasizes that despite recent successes, membership growth will remain the club’s biggest challenge.

“The pandemic fundamentally changed how a lot of people work, and those new routines and habits have had ripple effects,” Stewart says. “I think many of the changes we are seeing were already happening before COVID, but the pandemic likely sped it all up.”

He adds, “Our club has evolved and changed how we have been doing some things during the past few years, and we’ll continue to do that. I feel good about the direction of our club.”

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ROTARY OPENS OPPORTUNITIES

Fighting inequality with education and mentoring

It all started with a difficult conversation about hot issues in the national press – racism and inequality. In Spring 2020, several members of Newark Morning Rotary club joined in a Zoom session where we spoke frankly and openly about our feelings and emotions.

We came away from the discussion with a determination to make a difference in our community, based on our skills, talents, and resources with a taskforce aptly named FACT, after the Four-Way Test of things we think, say, and do, a mantra practiced by Rotarians worldwide.

The mission of the Fair to All Concerned Taskforce (FACT) is to engage members on the topic of racism and inequality and to provide educational program-

ming so that we can make a meaningful impact in the Greater Newark community. The outcome was three fold:

1. Support of Newark Police Department’s PAL project to develop a more positive relationship between local police and minority and underserved youth.

2. Support women and minorities in the Newark area who have aspirations of being entrepreneurs

3. Provide a mentoring program to local aspiring entrepreneurs, enabling them to be successful members of their families and the community.

The Traveling PAL trailer will be making rounds to underserved neighborhoods this summer. The first class of an introduction to business basics concluded in March 2021. The Business Advisory Program started after that. Rotary opens opportunities.

The Four Way Test is the most widely printed and quoted statement of business ethics in the world of Rotary

It was created by Rotarian Herbert J. Taylor in 1932 when he was asked to take charge of the Chicago-based Club Aluminum Company, which was facing bankruptcy. Taylor looked for a way to save the struggling company mired in depression-caused financial difficulties. He drew up a 24-word code of ethics for all employees to follow in their business and professional lives. The Four-Way Test became the guide for sales, production, advertising and all relations with dealers and customers, and the survival of the company was credited to this simple philosophy.

Taylor became president of Rotary International in 1954-55. The Four-Way Test was adopted by Rotary in 1934 and has been translated into more than 100 languages. Today it still represents the philosophy of more than 1.8 million Rotarians worldwide.

The Four Way Test of the things we think, say and do.

1. Is it the truth?

2. Is it fair to all concerned?

3. Will it build goodwill and better friendships?

4. Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

Making an IMPACT in Newark

As a senior vice president of Citigroup in New Castle, Shira Tymes has a lot on her plate, managing teams in Delaware, Texas, and India.

Still, she wanted to find time for community service, with the Newark Morning Rotary’s IMPACT Club being a good fit.

“Community Service has always been an important part of my upbringing that I have carried through adulthood. Whether it is volunteering at a local food pantry, donating clothing, gathering good for those in need or mentorship it’s a way for to give back and help others in the community,” Shira says. “I will never forget the experience and feeling I had about 10 years ago when a group of friends adopted a family in need during the holidays. It was inspiring and enjoyed putting a smile on someone else’s face.”

IMPACT clubs recognize that many would-be Rotarians are put off by the traditional meeting format, family and work demands, and the costs associated with membership.

Spearheading the effort was Morning Rotary Membership Chair Paul Keely, who is always quick to remind

Glasgow.

members that clubs see a sizable percentage of members leave every year due to age, health issues, job commitments, moving away, and the list goes on.

“I learned about the idea of IMPACT clubs by attending a Rotary webinar put on by the membership team of our Rotary Zone - a group of Rotary districts,” Keely says. “The IMPACT model is a type of what Rotary calls a Companion Club. All members are registered as members of our club - IMPACT members sometimes call us ‘big Rotary” - but they operate fairly independently.” Thanks to the efforts of Paul and others in club, Newark Morning Rotary launched the first IMPACT club in Delaware.

The IMPACT Club dispenses with the typical Rotary meeting format and instead focuses on get-togethers focusing on service products.

Already, the IMPACT Club has made a difference through volunteer work at the Food Bank of Delaware and assembling toiletries and hygiene product bags for a group home.

Tymes was not a stranger to the Newark club or Rotary.

“I have always been in awe of the work and service my dad, Clinton Tymes, a charter member and twice past president of Newark Morning Rotary has done in the community over the years,” Shira says. “But a busy career and parenting time just wouldn’t allow a full commitment until IMPACT came along.”

Impact Club members pitched in at the Food Bank of Delaware in

Shira Tymes helps pack non-perishables at The Food Bank.

Shoes that fit Our support continues…

Duringthe past two decades, the Newark Morning Rotary club has contributed nearly $36,000 to Shoes That Fit of Delaware.

Starting in 2001, when we first learned of the efforts of John and Joanne Glauser to supply our homeless and neediest children with proper fitting shoes, we were committed to supporting their worthy effort.

They turned their little used living room into a mini-warehouse, storing items until the right need arose.

The national Shoes that Fit organization has restructured and according to the Glausers. National Shoes That Fit will now operate its own warehouse that will purchase and distribute shoes at discount prices. In recent years, chapters have found it increasingly difficult to buy high-quality shoes, due to supply chain snarls and other issues.

Shoes that Fit Delaware will focus solely on shoes after years of purchasing school uniforms and other needed items.

While the change puts an end to the Glausers’ living room warehouse, it frees them up to concentrate on raising awareness of the organization and its mission. The result has been increased news coverage and greater awareness of the organization

The Glausers were recent guests of Newark Morning Rotary with members updated on their mission. (See accompanying photo)

After all, new shoes bring a sense of pride and washes away the shame of not looking like the rest of their peers. The increased self-esteem helps in the classroom.

John and Joanne Glauser, top left, founders of Shoes That Fit Delaware

Clinton and Lynn,

I’ve returned from Florida and have been thorough- ly briefed by my assistants Bernie and Joe on the fabulous work you’re doing in the Newark com- munity. I got a chance to read your program (Ber- nie gave me a copy), and I must say the list of the Newark Morning Rotary Club accomplishments over the past 25 years is astounding! (You’ve got a club officer named DiDonato, so I’m not terribly surprised!)

True to your stated mission, you certainly have done your share “to improve the quality of life of people in need” in your area. Joe and Bernie were also very impressed with the warm and gracious reception they received Wednesday eve- ning.

On behalf of the Dover Program of Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing, I’d like to once again express my deepest thanks and gratitude for the generous dona- tion you have provided. I’m well aware that you and your team had to work hard to raise the funds that you provide to organization like ours, and I want you to know that we will be careful stewards of those funds.

I posted the check in the mail this morning, so it’s now on its way to the PHWFF headquarters for deposit. We are about to re-activate our PHWFF Face- book page, and with your permission we’ll post the picture that was shared with me from the event.

As the year progresses, it would please me to send along pictures and captions from our various events – fishing, fly tying, rod casting, daytrips, etc. – made possible by your support. Meanwhile, consider yourselves to have a standing invitation to visit one of our meetings.

Best wishes for continued success!

James DiDonato

Ray Civatte community service award

Community service in her blood – and storytelling

Once upon a midnight dreary, who was tapping, tapping at the door as he was lamenting the loss of his love, Lenore? The Raven, for sure.

The famous poem all began with Edgar Allan Poe’s visit to Newark in 1843, arriving at St. Patrick’s Inn, now known as the Deer Park Tavern. The legend goes that Poe arrived in a torrential rainstorm, fell into the mud when exiting his carriage, and proceeded to place a curse on the inn. Later that night he wrote “The Raven”.

Mary Torbey, local historian and storyteller, can recite many tales about Newark and its visitors. As a longtime volunteer with the Newark History Museum, Mary serves as curator and helps preserve, exhibit, and interpret Newark’s history. She also is a musician and Sergeant Major in the 1st Delaware Regiment, reenactors of the Revolutionary War, and serves time volunteering to set up displays at the Delaware Military Museum.

When she is not working on curating responsibilities, Mary is quick to tell a tale or two about how Newark developed and the characters who made it so.

It has been a 25-year tradition for the Newark Morning Rotary Club to recognize a community member with the Ray Civatte Community Service Award. The award

is presented at the annual meeting in June where the members can meet this incredible individual who has unselfishly given his/her time, talents, and resources to make a big difference in our society.

Named for the club’s first president, Ray Civatte, the award goes to a non-Rotarian who lives the motto of Service Above Self, the long standing motto of Rotarians worldwide.

Civatte was this club’s first president in 1999, helping to establish a vision and mission for Newark Morning Rotary, along with our many long-standing traditions. After a three-year battle with Leukemia, Ray passed away in 2010 and the award was named in his honor.

Morning Rotary member Laura DelPercio, left, presents the Ray Civatte Community Service Award to Mary Torbey.

Rotarians Support Easterseals Welcome Bags

Wherecan young adults with differing disabilities go to have fun like others their age? And how can a caregiver of a child bound to a wheelchair find a few days of respite?

Easterseals of Delaware and Maryland Eastern Shore provides answers to both of their needs, with many services and programs for individuals with a disability, special need, or aging condition, and their caregivers, as well.

One opportunity that Easterseals provides is near and dear to Rotarians’ hearts. Camp Fairlee, near Chestertown, Md., offers summer camping experiences to enable the attendees to participate in activities that others in their age group might do. Trail walks, rope walks, arts and crafts, evening bonfires, swimming, canoeing, and so much more take place in an environment that is safe and meets the needs of each individual.

Many Rotary clubs on the peninsula, support Camp Fairlee, monetarily as well as physically.

Rotarians will spend a day helping spruce up the grounds and buildings for Spring Cleanup, build picnic tables and benches, paint cabins, spread mulch, and contribute supplies. They also serve on the Easterseals Board of Directors.

The large pavilion was built and paid for by Rotary District 7630 about five years ago. Integral

to summer camp, it serves as a cafeteria, arts and crafts center, theater, and nurse station.

Newark Morning Rotary Club contributes nearly $3,600 annually in scholarship money to assist campers who cannot otherwise afford a week away at camp.

In the spring, members pack Welcome Bags for the counselors who assist at summer camp. They fly in from many parts of the world, often with the bare essentials until they can get to shop. Sixty bags are filled with a variety of toiletries, such as shampoo, toothpaste, soap, deodorant, mouthwash, hand sanitizer, lip balm and bug spray. Also included are small tablets, pens, and flashlights. The colorful bags can be used by the counselors all summer as they go from activity to activity with their campers.

Service is in his blood

Jeffrey Lee Curry has been fighting fires for nearly 40 years.

At the age of 16, Lee first became a volunteer firefighter when he joined Water Witch in Port Deposit, Md. and he has not looked back.

Lee has responded to countless fire calls, both day and night, in the Newark and Elkton areas.

After volunteering with Singerly Fire Company for nine years, he is currently Assistant Fire Chief.

For his many years of service, Lee received the Newark Morning Rotary Club’s Public Service Award in 2023. The award is given to a member of our community who has given tirelessly of him or herself to the safety and benefit of the Greater Newark community.

Always ready to answer the call to serve and to lead, he is employed with Cytec/Solvay Group where he serves on their fire brigade. He has also served as VP of Local 1338 United Auto Workers and Aerospace Union.

Not only working directly here at home, Lee served eight years in the United States Army and was deployed to Desert Storm.

When he is not on duty to fight fires, and finds a few minutes to relax, Lee enjoys fishing or playing a weekly game of basketball with coworkers.

Lee and his wife Tracy, an oncology nurse at Christiana Care, are longtime residents of Newark.

As is tradition with this award, the recipient receives a plaque and a check for $250. However, they are asked to donate their award money to their favorite non-profit. Lee donated his award to Kay’s Foundation.

Newark Morning Rotarians thank Lee Curry for his service and congratulate him on receiving the Public Service Award for 2023.

Newark Morning Rotarian member Mike Reckner, left, presents award to Lee Curry for four decades of serving the community as a first responder. Civatte Community Service Award to Mary Torbey.

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Tymes, Keely named Rotarians of the Year

Eachyear it is the prerogative of the club president to name the Rotarian of the Year, a member who has exemplified the motto of Rotary, Service Above Self. This individual stands above the other members during that year in their dedication to the club and helping to further our agenda.

In June 2023 then club President Clinton Tymes named Paul Keely as Rotarian of the Year.

As chairman of the Membership Committee, Paul has consistently led one of the most challenging parts of any organization in attracting and retaining members. He routinely keeps an updated database of potential new members and leads the Discover Rotary information sessions for those interested in becoming members.

Paul has led many initiatives in our club over the years, everything from being club president to chairman of the Report to the Community and Flags For Heroes. When there is a need for printed materials or creative pins, his graphic company is ready to help.

During the annual dinner meeting in June 2023, President Clinton presented Paul with the Rotarian of the Year plaque.

But wait…..

Unbeknownst to President Clinton, the membership had secretly voted for Clinton Tymes to be Rotarian of the Year, too.

In July 2022, the start of the Rotary year, nine members had decided to take Leave of Absence and explore the idea of starting another Rotary club. That left a huge void in the leadership succession of our club.

Clinton was called upon to step in as club president for a second time, a role he gratefully accepted.

He was the right person at the right time to get our remaining members together, focused and re-committed to the spirit of Rotary. He led us through a time of soul searching and evaluating our core values. He brought us back to being stronger, more focused, and growing again.

When a second Rotarian of the Year was announced that night, then-President Clinton Tymes was speechless and humbled.

Both of the 2023 Rotarians of the Year are special to our club and we are all better off having them as leaders.

The announcement came as a complete surprise to Clinton Tymes, left, after club members secretly voted for the outgoing club president to join Paul Keely in receiving the annual honor.

Newark Morning Rotarians pitch in to help Nigerian girls stay in school.

$10,000 grant provides badly needed menstrual supplies

With assistance from the Newark Morning Rotary Club, more than 4,100 schoolgirls in Nigeria will now be able to attend school every week of the month rather than missing 25% of their education time due to a lack of menstrual supplies.

The $10,000 project will have a huge impact on schoolgirls and their families through the OnePad Project, run by Assurance Ayilara in Nigeria. The goal of OnePad is to reduce poverty by 25% by 2030, ensuring more girls stay in school and become educated, mentally stable, confident, and successful individuals.

The girls were trained on how to make reusable menstrual pads and had access to free menstrual hygiene kits and printed information. According to reports by UNICEF, 10% of African girls miss school due to their periods. In Nigeria, nearly 8 million schoolgirls do not have sufficient access to menstrual hygiene products nor related education. This leads to unhygienic practices and increases the risk of infections and illnesses.

Many of these girls come from slums, fishing camps, and the riverine areas of Bayelsa and Rivers states in the southern part of Nigeria.

“No girl should miss out on her education because of the fear or stigma of menstruating,” said Rotarian Doris Chan Leach, chair of the grant project. “All

teenage girls should be empowered with the right information about their bodies.”

Since 2008 under a program initiated by then-President Barack Obama, each summer more than 700 participants in the Mandela Fellows program come from a variety of African countries and are spread out over the United States for a six-week program, learning from professionals and educators in a variety of fields the best leadership, management, and professional skills necessary for them to be successful in today’s global environment.

Each is a young professional with a particular cause to benefit their community, including health, sports, education, or career-oriented initiatives. The Rotarians invite the 25 University of Delaware Mandela Fellows to a dinner where each can network and make a pitch for supporting their cause back home in Africa.

The Newark Morning Rotarians met Ayilara when she attended the Mandela Fellows program at UD in summer of 2022. Ayilara’s commitment to the One Pad Project convinced the Rotarians to support the, Nigerian project, filling one of Rotary’s Areas of Focus: Women’s and Children’s Health.

The Rotarians have been applying for and receiving Rotary District 7630 grant money for more than 20 years to perform humanitarian work not only globally but also here in the Newark area.

POLIO

During 2023, headway was made in ridding the world of polio.

It came after a difficult 2022 that saw scattered outbreaks of the crippling disease.

Also in 2022, a joint commitment of up to $450 million to support the global polio eradication effort was announced by Rotary and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Newark Morning Rotary, like other clubs around the globe has been a long-time supporter of the program.

Many adults who were “cured” of polio as a child are now seeing crippling symptoms showing up again. Wheelchairs, braces, physical therapy and many debilitating diseases are seeing a comeback in polio survivors. John Nanni, member of Middletown Odessa Rotary Club, had polio as a child and was considered “cured” until he developed other symptoms as an adult. A large sign on the back of his wheelchair says “This is what polio looks like.” He doesn’t let his crippling disease stop him from championing the fight against polio. Rotarian Robin Broomall found him at the Rotary International convention in Toronto in June 2019.

We are STILL this close… We’ve said it before. We are “this close”

“Eradicating polio requires the dedication and generosity of nations and individuals around the world, and Rotarians are again leading the way,” said Melinda French Gates, co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. “Rotary International and Rotarians continue to be the heart of GPEI (Global Polio Eradication effort) – and have been since the beginning.

Rotary is committed to raising $50 million per year over the next three years, with every dollar to be matched with two additional dollars from the Gates Foundation.

In summarizing 2023, GPEI reported that it “achieved incredible things” in the past twelve months, despite wars and other obstacles.

There was also no resumption of the 2022 outbreaks that even included New York City.

GPEI and its partners reported health workers vaccinated more than 400 million children in 2023 and preventied an estimated 650,000 cases of paralysis from polio that would have taken the lives of 60,000 children.

The focus in 2024 will be on eradicating polo in the few places in Pakistan and Afghanistan where it remains endemic.

Achieving and sustaining a polio-free world has proven harder – and taken longer – than anyone could have imagined. But making history is never easy, and we are confident that together we can eradicate a second human disease from this earth, the GPEI report concluded.

Boulden Brothers cares

Community support is its mission

he bottom line in any company is something the owner or manager keeps in mind when making all decisions. But sometimes there is something just as important – serving the community. This club established the Spirit in Business Award in 2012 to recognize local businesses that have made an impact on our community.

TIn 2023 the Newark Morning Rotary Club honored Boulden Brothers for its commitment to the Greater Newark community with the club’s Spirit in Business Award. They received a plaque and $250 to be used in support of their favorite charitable organization.

Nominated by Rotarian Robin Broomall, Boulden Brothers, located on Sandy Drive in Newark was recognized as a visible leader for following their mission not only to enhance their business but also to commit to a better community.

Since 1946, the family-owned business has been a fixture in Newark, starting as a coal supplier and transitioning to the needs of the community over 75 years. Now under the direction of brothers Tim and Michael, it specializes in plumbing, heating, air, and electric needs.

The business has been a huge supporter of many non-profits and community efforts of all sizes since its inception. They support baseball teams, many large and small foundations, local races as fundraisers, Ronald McDonald House, Sunday Breakfast Mission, Preston’s March For Energy, Folds of Honor, DFRC and so many more.

Not only do they give money when it is crucial, but they participate in the activities they support like collecting and donating thousands of toys for children less fortunate.

One whole wall in their business headquarters is covered with thank you letters and notes, pictures of events, and ceremonial checks reflecting the energy and commitment of the full company team.

Tim Boulden stands beside one entire wall in the Boulden Brothers headquarters that is covered with thank you notes and letters, pictures, drawings, maps and ceremonial checks recognizing the commitment of the company to the Newark community and beyond.

Tim, a member of the Newark Morning Rotary Club, credits Rotary for much of the inspiration behind their community service. After learning about a potable water program conducted by Rotarian Kenny Woods in many countries in Africa, Boulden Brothers set aside a percentage of their profits to drill two water wells in Ghana and a third well is planned.

Congratulations to the entire Boulden Brothers team and Thank You for all you do.

Morning Rotarians clean up a historic highway

Twice a year, the Newark Morning Rotary heads to a historic Delaware highway for clean-up duties as part of the Adopt a Highway program from the Delaware Department of Transportation.

The work, led by long-time Morning Rotary member Barry Baker, takes place along Old Baltimore Pike near the Maryland line.

Baker is quick to point out that Old Baltimore Pike was the route the British took from the head of Chesapeake Bay in their effort to quell the American Revolution.

To the east of the Rotary’s litter collection area near Old Baltimore Pike, Washington’s army fought the red coats and Hessian mercenaries at Cooches Bridge, the state’s only battle.

The British advanced and, after the Battle of Brandywine in Pennsylvania, occupied Philadelphia, leading Washington’s men to spend a brutal winter at Valley Forge.

Washington’s troops later traveled on Old Baltimore Pike on their way to Yorktown, Virginia, where, with the help of the French Navy, British forces were surrounded, bombarded, and surrendered as a new nation gained its independence.

Baker ensures Rotary volunteers on the historic route are prepared for the task by issuing limegreen vests, gloves and “pokers” that safely pick up trash tossed from vehicles.

Boots are recommended, and socks are to be pulled up over trousers in a heavily wooded area where Lyme disease-carrying deer ticks are common.

Items collected reflect the tastes of the time and include spiked ice tea as well as beer, hard liquor and the usual cigarette butts. In one case, spare change was found.

Lightweight plastic bags, known to get stuck in bushes, have become rarer , thanks to recent state ban on their use at many grocery and convenience stores.

The Saturday clean-ups, while frequently delayed by rain, take place in the spring and fall.

Bags of roadside refuse collected by club members are later picked up by DelDOT and aid in the effort to improve the appearance of highways.

THE FACE OF SENIOR

LIVING

The Vero at Newark, opened in March 2023, marks Leisure Care’s 50th community nationwide and its first in Delaware. “Vero” is Italian for true, and our seniors live their true selves physically, mentally, emotionally and socially.

In the heart of Newark, The Vero offers independent living, assisted living and memory care with a more modern approach, including an integrated space for both independent living and assisted living. This allows residents to age in place without having to physically move as their needs increase, and incorporates hospitality, multifamily and healthcare all in one. Hospitality services include transportation, housekeeping, entertainment, upscale dining options and other amenities. Our Prime Fit Wellness Programs extend beyond our community walls, offering trips abroad for residents and families through Leisure Care travel. THE VERO AT NEWARK 924 Barksdale Road, Newark, DE 19711 302.455.7979 • LeisureCare.com/Our-Communities/Vero-Newark

Pictured left to right: Frank DeMarinis, General Manager with Marketing Team (Terri Doody, BJ Didonato, Henry Starks) and 1st resident Elaine Hardenbergh

And you don’t need to plug it in Dictionaries offer learning opportunities DICTIONARIES

How do you get students to be good readers and writers?

What is a good way to get them interested in reading, learning new words, and thinking creatively? Give them a free book that can open their eyes to a world to learning.

Better yet, give them a dictionary that is easy to navigate and contains a ton of other interesting facts about history, astronomy, historical personalities, science, and sign language. And it doesn’t need to be plugged into a charger every night.

Each September Newark Morning Rotarians make sure local third graders have their own personal student dictionaries to help with their classwork as well as homework.

For two decades, this club has distributed upwards of 1,000 student dictionaries annually, at a cost of nearly $3,000 each year, to Newark schools, including West

Park, Jennie Smith, Sterck, Maclary, and Newark Charter. Even in today’s world of books delivered by iPads and other mobile devices, many students are thrilled to receive their dictionaries.

The dictionaries are part of The Dictionary Project, a Rotary sponsored organization. For many students this dictionary is the first new book they personally own.

Many do not have a dictionary in their home. Students are instructed that this is their property and they can keep at school or take home to use for homework if they desire. It is not property of the school.

The Newark Morning Rotary club alone has distributed nearly 12,000 dictionaries. Nationally The Dictionary Project has reached more than 34 million students since 1995.

In above photo, students at West Park Place Elementary School show off their dictionaries.

To learn more, visit gore.com

Discover your community art center and find locally made arts and crafts, and a place to take classes in the arts.

New Location!

Shoppes at Louviers 207 Louviers Dr., Newark, DE

Visit the Gallery Shop to buy local fine art & crafts and see the current show.

Art Receptions, Fridays, 6-8pm. Find show schedule online.

Newark Garden Tour, Sat., June 1, 10am-3pm Holiday Art Market, Nov. 25 to Dec. 28

Join your tribe at:

Loose Threads: 2nd Tuesdays, 7-9pm

2nd Sunday Music Jam: 12:30-3pm

Open Mic Night: 3rd Sat, 6-8pm 4th Friday Drum Circle: 7-8:30pm

Figure Drawing: 1st-4th Thurs. 6:30-9pm

The Newark Arts Alliance www.newarkartsalliance.org 302-266-7266 info@newarkartsalliance.org

Hours: Tue/Wed/Thurs/Sat/12-4pm & Fri/12-8pm

Morning Rotary 25 years and going strong

receive a proclamation

Ayear-long dream of having a second Rotary club in Newark was realized on Feb. 18, 1999, when the Newark Morning Rotary Club received its charter from Rotary International, joining more than 30,000 other Rotary clubs and 1.4 million Rotarians in the world.

Sponsored by the Newark Rotary Club, our Morning club quickly found its niche in the Newark community. For ten years we had convened for breakfast and fellowship on Thursday mornings at the Blue and Gold Club on the University of Delaware campus. Since July 1, 2009, we have been breaking bread at the Courtyard by Marriott. The staff in our new home has really made us feel welcome and they became part of our family.

But the months before this club was officially sanctioned were not all smiles and sunshine.

The parent Newark Rotary Club once was the stalwart club in the Rotary District 7630, covering Delaware and Eastern Shore Maryland. Over the years it became “the old boys club” and most members were comfortable with that. But like many organizations that do not recognize the need to change and attract new, younger members, their numbers began to decline, and some seasoned members refused to see the light.

“We were told there was no room for another service organization in Newark,” recalled Robin Broomall, a past president of the evening club and co-founder of Newark Morning. “It was a very contentious time.”

But after many meetings and discussions on what the future held, the Newark club members eventually relented and gave their blessing to the new morning club.

The 33 charter members, under the leadership of the first president Ray Civatte, quickly established projects, many of which are still active and vital in our neighborhood. The members committed to the mantra of “not being just a check-writing club,” and got active with handson activities.

Members have raked leaves for elderly, picked up highway trash, landscaped the Emmaus House, mentored in schools and worked at Camp Fairlee in Chestertown, Md. We shopped for new clothes, coats and shoes for needy school children, packaged meals for children we will never meet, collected shoeboxes full of goodies for soldiers, wrapped gifts for UNICEF, supported humanitarian projects here and globally, and distributed dictionaries to our third graders. Our schedule is always busy.

On hand to

from the City of Newark marking the 25th anniversary of Morning Rotary, were from left; Lynn Mey; Stewart Lee; Newark Mayor Jerry Clifton; Robin Broomall; and Clinton Tymes.

But when needed, we were willing to write checks to support local families in need, Shoes That Fit, Iron Hill Museum, Wilmington and Western Railroad, Big Brother Big Sisters, Dope Help project, Val Nardo’s Family Fund, Junior Achievement, and many more. Nearly $80,000 went to camperships for Easterseals clients to attend summer camp at Camp Fairlee.

In 25 years nearly $1 million has been raised through the sale of ads in the annual Report to the Community, what started as the club’s only annual fund-raiser, with 100% of profits going directly to service projects. This enabled us to award scholarships, recognize our community volunteers, support local non-profits, assist seniors, feed the hungry and clothe the needy.

Additionally, this year’s profits of $26,500 from Flags For Heroes supported our veterans and youth.

Twenty-five years ago the club’s founders were told there was no room for them in Newark. We proved the nay-sayers wrong.

Newark is Alive and Strong!

Today, with new members and forward-thinking leadership, the Newark Rotary Club, our parent club, still meets Monday evenings and is strong

and healthy. They are actively involved with the community, here and globally,

And Newark Morning Club has sponsored another club, the Newark STAR Rotary, meeting on the UD campus.

The Newark community is well represented by Rotary.

Club member Tyrone Jones offered inspirational remarks at the 25th Anniversary dinner.

Founding member Mark Sisk offered his recollections of the club’s early days.

Making birthdays special for shut in senior citizens

For the past four years, Newark Morning Rotarians have been packing and distributing Birthday Boxes to Meals on Wheels recipients at the Newark Senior Center.

Rotarians assemble the boxes for future delivery at morning meetings with member and hotelier Bill Sullivan providing meeting room space and luggage cart.

About 100 neighbors have meals delivered every day under the volunteer-driven program. Many of them are shut-ins or have few family members nearby to handle daily activities such as making a hot dinner. They might feel very alone or forgotten on their one special day of the year.

On their birthday, as their usual volunteer from the Senior Center Meals on Wheels program delivers their hot meal for the day, they also receive a box filled with treats such as cookies, crackers, candy, pretzels, juice box and other small items such as a magazine, notepad, small night light, doodle pad or word-find book, calendar or small holiday trinket courtesy of the Rotarians.

Birthday cards are signed by the Rotarians and included in the white box before sealing with a Happy Birthday sticker.

“I get thank you’s from the recipients every day,” said Stephanie Thomas, director of the Meals Center. “They are so grateful for someone thinking of them.”

More than 500 Birthday Boxes have been packed by the Rotarians so far. The volunteers delivering them have reported back to Senior Center staff that the recipients are often overwhelmed that someone would think of them. Many thank you cards have been received.

“They are just so surprised when they get that birthday box,” said Rotarian Barry Baker. He and his wife Judy have been volunteer deliverers for Meals on Wheels for many years. “They just love that someone else thought of them.

Rotarian Barry Baker and wife Judy deliver a birthday meal to Sophia.

Lori’s Hands

Volunteers make a difference

Thegrass still grows, the leaves fall, weeds grow, and groceries need to be purchased as we face health challenges. And someone needs to take care of such chores.

For some of our neighbors with chronic illnesses, that just isn’t possible. That’s where Lori’s Hands steps in.

Newark Morning Rotary members serve as volunteers for Lori’s Hands over the years.

Lori’s Hands, a community health service learning program, brings undergraduate students into meaningful volunteer service for adults living with chronic illnesses in Newark.

The organization is named in memory of Lori LaFave. Lori, who lived in Voorheesville, NY, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1995. She died in 2003.

Lori’s daughter, Sarah, founded Lori’s Hands in her mother’s memory during her sophomore year at the University of Delaware.

Lori’s Hands students provided grocery shopping and prescription deliveries, helped with outdoor tasks like yard work and taking out the trash, made safe distanced companionship visits, completed countless phone and video calls, organized and attended events, wrote letters, and more.

The organization has grown and now has chapters in Baltimore and the Detroit metro area.

Recently coming on board at Lori’s Hands was Zach Barton, who is serving as executive director. Zach attended one of our recent morning meetings.

Zach Barton, right, talks about the work of Lori’s Hands. Looking on is Newark Morning Rotary President Stewart Lee.

MEET THE NEWARK MORNING ROTARY CLUB 2024

Claire

Augustynowicz

Pet Care IMPACT member

Claire is a manager of Camp Bowwow, a local dog daycare in Delaware. She has been a member of IMPACT group for almost a year now. When Claire isn’t around dogs, she spends her time socializing and finding small ways to give back to the community.

Barry Baker

Electrical Engineering

Barry retired from a career that included working on the “Minute Man Missile” with Boeing, 31 years with DuPont, and 11 years with his own business manufacturing textile parts. He holds seven patents in industrial hygiene instruments. He and wife Judy are active in their church and enjoy traveling, and delivering Meals on Wheels for more than 18 years.

Dave Bonk

Income Tax Consultant

Dave Bonk retired from Blood Bank of Delmarva after a 30-year career as Marketing and Public Relations Director. Previously he was executive director of the Delaware Heritage Commission. While in college he started an income tax preparation business, now his only job other than golf, tennis, pickleball and lying on the beach. Dave has been a Rotarian for over 20 years and is past president of Christiana Rotary Club. He lives in Hockessin with his wife Becky.

Tia Truxon-Boulden Banking IMPACT member

Tia is the executive director and in-house counsel for J. P. Morgan. She is a charter member of the IMPACT club.

Tim

Boulden

Heating Contractor

Tim is president of Boulden Brothers Plumbing, Heating, Air and Electric in Newark, which was founded in 1946. Tim says, “Rotary allows me to serve the community in different ways than I have in the past. I am grateful to be in a group that does so much good for Newark.”

Robin

Broomall

Personal Development Charter Member

Robin is a consultant in leadership and communications programs. A Rotarian since 1993, she is a co-founder and past-president of this club and is active at the district level. She is president of the Board of Directors of Delaware Academy of Science at Iron Hill Museum and Science Center.

Charles J. Brown III

Business Litigation

Charlie is a partner with Gellert Scali Busenkill & Brown LLC, focusing on business law, including contract disputes, commercial debt collection, bankruptcy, and real estate. His hobbies include practicing tae kwan do. Charlie and wife Tracy are UD grads and have three children.

Eric Cannon

Paramedics Charter Member

A native Delawarean, Eric was educated at Friends School , UD and The Wilmington Medical Center School of Paramedics Training. After a 31-year career in Emergency Medical Service, Eric was in automobile sales for eight years. He then worked in the funeral industry until 2019. Eric is now enjoying the retired life.

Bob Cronin

Real Estate

Bob is a Broker Associate with the Newark office of PattersonSchwartz Real Estate. Native of Newark, Bob and wife Becky enjoy time in Canaan Valley, WV, with three children and eight grandchildren.

Chris Darling Marketing IMPACT member

Chris was a Rotarian from 2011-2018 but feels as though once a Rotarian, always a Rotarian. Her desire to be a part of something meaningful aligns with being a part of IMPACT. Chris is a paraprofessional with the Colonial School District. She is also the owner of Darling SEO, a marketing agency.

Frederick J. Dawson, ChFC, CLU

Wealth Manager

Charter Member

Fred is President of Dawson Wealth Management LLC located in Wilmington, DE. (Dawson Wealth Management LLC is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. member FINRA/SIPC). He is a Chartered Financial Consultant and Chartered Life Underwriter. Fred is a member of Club Phred, a rock and roll band, helping to earn more than $5M for local and national charities.

Laura DelPercio

Physical Fitness

A native Delawarean, Laura is a graduate of St. Mark’s HS, Widener University, and Colorado Technical Institute. She is the Regional Manager of Club Pilates Pike Creek and upcoming Bear location. She runs her own business consulting overwhelmed-business owners reach and improve their profits. She is chairperson of the New Castle County Western Region Republicans.

BJ

DiDonato

Senior Living

BJ is a Senior Healthcare Consultant and Marketing and Outreach Liaison at The Vero in Newark, from Hospice to Skilled Nursing Facilities to Senior Living Communities. She loves to volunteer for the American Heart Association and The Alzheimer’s Association. BJ is so happy to complete her first year as part of the Newark Morning Rotary Club.

Cheryl Ernst Higher Education

Cheryl recently relocated to Newark from Oregan. As leader of UD’s English Language Institute, she is a passionate international scholar who believes in service and bridge building through language, education, and community.

Stephen Fangman

HVAC Service

Steve served his country in the U.S. Air Force as a Firefighter. He lives in the Fair Hill, MD area with his son and daughter-in-law while they build their new home for their expanding family. Steve is active in community projects in both Newark and Elkton areas.

Robert T. Foard

Funeral Directing

A Licensed Funeral Director since 1975, Bob is president of R. T. Foard Funeral Home and Crematory, with four locations in Cecil County and Newark. A past president of this club, Bob has been a member of several service and professional organizations in Cecil and New Castle counties, including serving as president of the Maryland State Licensing Board of Morticians during the late 1980’s.

Marie Holliday

Tax Accountant

Marie is the Managing Director at Cover Rossiter, certified public accountants and advisors with offices in Wilmington. She earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees at UD. She and husband Al raised three children and now enjoy spare time at the beach.

Edward Gossett

Business Analyst

Ed Gossett has been a business analyst since 1984, a passion of his to serve businesses of all sizes. A Rotarian since 2002, Ed relocated from Texas to Rehoboth Beach then Newark. He became a member of this club in 2023 and holds a leadership position within the Rotary District.

Jerry Holt Quality Management

Jerry retired from a 47+ year career with DuPont, Honeywell, and General Electric. He and wife Hannslore live in Newark. He is active in the church and enjoys reading and traveling. Jerry says, “I joined Rotary to contribute to the community that has given so much to us.”

Dennis Greenhouse

Government Consulting

Dennis works with companies to develop their relationships with the public sector. He held elected office as State Auditor and as New Castle County Executive before joining the Federal government, first with the White House and then the Justice Department. He is now retired from Federal service and lobbies for the Delaware Legislature for various clients.

Evelyn Hayes

Nursing Education

Evelyn is retired UD Trustees’ Distinguished Professor Emerita for nursing. During her 32+ year tenure at UD with a community health specialty she made impactful contributions to education, clinical practice, service, research and advocacy. A retired Colonel (US Army Reserve, Nurse Corps), she proudly served 23 years in a variety of roles and settings, including Individual Mobilization Augmentee to the Chief of Nursing Administration at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. She now volunteers in leadership/mentoring roles in a variety of community and nursing/healthcare organizations.

John

Hornor

Ceramic Engineering

John retired from a 30 year career with DuPont, Lanxide, and General Electric. He is Vice-Chair of Hope Dining Room in Newark and supports the Newark Arts Alliance. John says, “I joined Rotary to meet more members of the community and to expand my volunteering efforts.”

Tyrone Jones Public

Policy

Tyrone joined Bloom Energy as Senior Manager Policy and Public Affairs in January 2021, developing and advancing the government, corporate and community affairs strategy in Delaware and Maryland in support of Bloom’s mission of making clean, reliable energy affordable for all. Currently, he serves as chair of The Newark Partnership Board, board member of the Delaware Manufacturing Association and Communities in Schools Delaware and is very committed to serve, create transformational change and developing our current and next generation of leaders.

Paul Keely

Marketing & Communications

Paul owns King Print & Promo, providing tangible marketing and communications tools to businesses. He is married to his high school sweetheart Eileen, has four children and three grandchildren. As a past president of this club, Paul is constantly inspired by the great work and big hearts of his fellow Rotarians.

Brooke Kelly

Real Estate

IMPACT member

Brooke is a realtor with Patterson-Schwartz Real Estate, specializing in listings and home staging as well as helping clients with the relocation process in all fifty states! Her vision is to provide clients with unforgettable customer service while serving and giving back to the community where we live and love! Brooke joined the IMPACT club in 2023.

Shawn Klapinsky

Certified Public Accounting Charter Member

Shawn is a Certified Public Accountant who owns his own firm, Shawn. W. Klapinsky, CPA Inc., which specializes in tax and consulting services for small to medium sized business, individuals, trusts, and estates. He is a past president and has been treasurer of the club for 20 years.

Michael Laur

Financial Advising

Mike is a financial advisor with Edward Jones on Main Street in Newark. A past president of this club, Mike enjoys all kinds of outdoor activities, particularly fishing and recreational sports. He lives in Wilmington with wife Karissa and three children.

Doris Chan Leach

Medical Therapy

Doris is the owner of reNu Medical & Injury Center, joining Rotary in January 2022. Her vision for her company is “To be the Leading Provider of Integrated Medical & Natural Medicine while Restoring our Communities Health & Wellness so their Hopes and Dreams Come True”.

Stewart Lee Banking

Stewart is a Chief Administrative Officer for Harford Bank, which is based in Harford County, Maryland. He is a past member of the Board of Directors and current member of the Finance Committee for St. Mark’s High School, past Board member of Open Door of Delaware, and current member of the Finance Committee at St. Margaret of Scotland Catholic Church.

Joshua

Martin

Chemical Engineering

Josh received his Bachelor in Chemical Engineering from UD in 2008 and is employed as a process engineer with Coherent Corp. in Newark. He is past president of this club as well as the Delaware Academy of Science, Inc. He and wife Katie live in Newark with their children.

Amanda McGinty Marketing

Amanda is a graduate of Coastal Carolina University and has worked in live events and regional theatre for over 15 years. She is currently the Marketing Coordinator for the Resident Ensemble Players, the professional theatre company in residence at the University of Delaware. Service projects are her favorite part of Rotary. Getting involved and helping others gives her a greater connection to the community she calls home.

Lynn Mey Chemical Engineering

Lynn has extensive experience leading international teams in manufacturing and supply chain across a variety of industries, including solar, safety and protection and automotive. Now retired from DuPont Company, she is currently serving as our club’s Philanthropy Chair and will be President of our Newark Morning Rotary Club for the 2024-25 Rotary year. Lynn also serves as a board member for Delaware Right To Life.

Tom Minto

Retail Banking

Tom is a Retail Office Manager at WSFS Bank in New Castle. He works with both individuals and small business on their banking and lending needs. He and his wife live in Newark and have three children that have graduated from University of Delaware.

Erastus

Mong’are International Development

Erastus is the founder and Executive Director for StartUpAfrica, Inc. a Diaspora international non-profit organization that supports African youth in the building of business skills and in endeavors that foster financial independence, create jobs, and grow African economies. He develops entrepreneurial initiatives, working on a model for youth programs, with the vision to impact the lives of 10 million youth through job creation by 2030. Erastus has received numerous awards for his work, including Kenya’s Presidential Head of State Commendation award.

Don is the Chief Technology Officer specializing in computer networking and security with SIMM Associates, Inc. and owner of SDS, Inc., an IT consulting business providing business consulting, disaster and recovery planning, Internet access and email, as well as security assessments. Don has been involved with the Relay for Life since 1996 and he and his team members have raised almost $300,000 for the American Cancer Society for their programs.

Jennifer Pilcher

Small Business Administration IMPACT member

Jennifer handles federal government contracting outreach and public affairs for the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Delaware District Office, developing and implementing media and public outreach strategy. She earned a J.D. from Widener University Law School and a B.A. from UD. She is a native Delawarean, living in Wilmington with her family and two dogs.

Doug Rainey Media

Doug is Publisher/Chief Content Officer for Delaware Business Now, a five-day-a-week business newsletter and website that covers the First State and adjacent areas. He also served as editor of the Delaware Business Ledger, Delaware Business Review, and the Newark Post. Doug and wife Sharon reside in Bear.

Michael

Reckner

Employee Benefits

Mike is a partner at Weiner Benefits Group, specializing in employee benefits, strategic planning, HR systems and compliance, as well as healthcare funding options and reform. Mike is a UD graduate and is married, living in Newark with five children, one at Newark Charter High School and one at UD.

Nikolas Reckner

Niko became a Rotarian in 2023 due to his interest in public service. He is a Charter Member and 2023 Chair of the IMPACT club at Newark Morning Rotary Club. Niko is a Senior Accountant with Whisman, Giordano & Associates, LLC, in Newark DE, and is a graduate of Millersville University.

David Schultz

Higher Ed. Administration IMPACT member

David is an Academic Advisor II at Lerner College of Business and Economics, University of Delaware. Rotarian since 1996, he was a two-time president of the Christiana Rotary and a board member for more than 25 years, joining the Newark Morning IMPACT club in 2023. He is actively involved in multiple other community service and advocacy organizations.

Dan Seador

First Responder

Dan was a paramedic with New Castle County for 33 years. He currently is president of Aetna Hose Hook and Ladder. Now that he is retired, Dan helps shuffle grandkids around and helps with family matters. Dan is the newest member of Newark Morning Rotary.

Mark

Sisk

Trial Law

Mark is with the law firm of James P. Curran, Jr. He also sings and plays guitar with fellow Rotarian Fred Dawson in Club Phred, a rock and roll band, which has raised more than $5M for various charities.

Greg

Stephens

Biological Sciences

Greg is a retired biology professor from UD. In addition to teaching several physiology courses, he conducted research on the evolution of lipoproteins and cardiovascular control mechanisms. Today he and wife Carol live in Lewes, DE, where they are both active in their local HOA, advocating for the preservation of natural resources and the planting of native plants. Carol has initiated the installation of a neighborhood butterfly and pollinator garden and they volunteer at Cape Henlopen State Park.

William A. Sullivan Hotel Management

Bill is the Managing Director of the Courtyard Newark at the University of Delaware and adjunct professor in the University’s Hospitality program. He is current chair of Greater Wilmington Convention and Visitor’s Bureau and on the Board of the Delaware Hotel and Lodging Association. He is a graduate of UD Lerner College of Business.

Sujan Timilsina

Biotechnology

Sujan is a research scientist at Charles River Labs in Newark, DE. He recently joined Rotary in 2022 and is looking forward to being actively involved with the community. He lives in Newark with his wife and daughter and enjoys outdoor activities. We are happy to have Sujan join us on service projects.

Shira

Tymes

Banking IMPACT member

Shira a Sr. Vice President at Citigroup based in the New Castle, DE. She holds a Bachelors of Science from University of Delaware and a Masters of Business Administration from Wilmington University. Shira currently resides in New Castle with her daughter, Madison. In her spare time, she enjoys spending quality time with her family, watching her daughter play soccer as well as attending concerts and football games.

Clinton Tymes

Small Business Development

Clinton is retired from UD where he held the position of State Director for Small Business Development Center Network. He continues to be connected through his work with True Access Capital. He and wife Barbara have two children and four grandchildren Naajee, Safiyah, Madsion and Sebastian.

Cindi Viviano

Advertising

Cindi is an Advertising Account Executive with Delaware Today, since 1999. She joined the Newark Morning Rotary Club in 2016, chairing both the Report to Our Community and Flags for Heroes fundraisers for several years. She has served as the Director of Fundraising since 2022.

Dazzle

Williams

Dazzle is DELIGHTED to connect with all her Rotary friends on Thursday mornings. She was born September 10, 2018 and lives with her younger sister and best buddy, Shimmer. They both LOVE going to Camp Bow Wow to be with Camp people, play and get treats for practicing their training, tricks & agility equipment skills.

Honoring our heroes!

The Newark Morning Rotary wrote a check for $26,000 from proceeds raised from its annual Flags for Heroes program. On hand for the presentation were club members, members of of veterans service organizations and first responders.

Laurie Williams

Pet Care

Laurie is owner of Camp Bow wow Delaware North. She loves working with dogs and “their people”. She has a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from University of Washington (Seattle) and MBA from Drexel University. In her 30 years at DuPont she started as a Chemical Engineer, holding positions in operations, marketing, technical services, sales, business unit management, and marketing. Laurie and husband John Lewis have two children and “almost perfect” grandchildren.

Kitty Wang Supply Management

IPMACT member

Kitty has been working in different roles at DuPont in past > 25 years focusing on End to End Supply Chain Management and I really love it. She obtained professional certification on CPIM, CSCP, CLTD. Outside of work, she has a passion for food, hiking, travelling and exploring new places.

Jamie Zingaro Communications

Jamie works at W. L. Gore & Associates in Newark. He enjoys the fellowship of Rotary as well as the opportunities for volunteering and working on service projects. He lives in Newark and enjoys spending time with his family, gardening, and other outdoor activities.

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Classified info that is no secret!

MEMBERSHIP in a Rotary club is by invitation and was based on the founder's paradigm of choosing one representative of each business, profession, or institution in the community.

What is called a "classification" is used to ensure the members of a club comprise a cross section of their community's business and professional life.

A Rotarian's classification describes either the principal business or professional service of the organization that he or she works for or the Rotarian's own activity within the organization. The classification is determined by the activities or services to society rather than by the position held by the particular individual.

The classification principle fosters a fellowship for service based on diversity of interest and prevents a club from being dominated by any one group. Here is a list of the classifications and members of the

Newark Morning Rotary Club.

The Four Way Test is the most widely printed and quoted statement of business ethics in the world of Rotary

It was created by Rotarian Herbert J. Taylor in 1932 when he was asked to take charge of the Chicagobased Club Aluminum Company, which was facing bankruptcy. Taylor looked for a way to save the struggling company mired in depression-caused financial difficulties. He drew up a 24-word code of ethics for all employees to follow in their business and professional lives. The Four-Way Test became the guide for sales, production, advertising and all relations with dealers and customers, and the survival of the company was credited to this simple philosophy.

Taylor became president of Rotary International in 1954-55. The Four-Way Test was adopted by Rotary in 1934 and has been translated into more than 100 languages. Today it still represents the philosophy of more than 1.8 million Rotarians worldwide.

The Four Way Test of the things we think, say and do.

1. Is it the truth?

2. Is it fair to all concerned?

3. Will it build goodwill and better friendships?

4. Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

Member Classification

Claire Augustynowicz Pet Care

Barry Baker Electrical Engineering

Dave Bonk Tax Preparation

Tia Truxon-Boulden Banking

Tim Boulden Heating Contracting

Robin Broomall Consulting

Charlie Brown Business Litigation

Eric Cannon Retired EMT

Robert Cronin Real Estate

Chris Darling Education Marketing

Fred Dawson Wealth Management

Laura DelPercio Physical Fitness

BJ DiDonato Senior Living

Cheryl Ernst Higher Education

Stephen Fangman HVAC Service

Robert T. Foard Funeral Directing

Edward Gossett Business Analysis

Dennis Greenhouse Government Consulting

Evelyn Hayes Nursing Education

Marie Holliday Tax Accounting

Jerry Holt Quality Management

John Hornor Ceramic Engineering

Tyrone Jones Public Policy

Paul Keely Marketing

Brooke Kelly Real Estate

Shawn Klapinsky Certified Public Accounting

Mike Laur Financial Advising

Doris Chan Leach Medical Therapy

Stewart Lee Banking

Joshua Martin Chemical Engineering

Amanda McGinty Marketing

Lynn Mey Chemical Engineering

Tom Minto Banking

Erastus Mong’are Int’l Development

Don Newcomb Information Technology

Jennifer Pilcher Sm. Business Administration

Doug Rainey Media

Michael Reckner Employee Benefits

Nikolas Reckner Accounting

David Schultz Higher Education Adm.

Dan Seador First Responder

Mark Sisk Trial Law

Bill Sullivan Hotel Management

Sujan Timilsina Biotechnology

Clinton Tymes Small Business Development

Shira Tymes Banking

Cindi Viviano Advertising

Kitty Wang Retired

Laurie Williams Pet Care

James Zingaro Communications

Who are these Rotarians?

They’re just like YOU and ME!

There are lots of service organizations for anyone to join. But what makes Rotary clubs different from all the others?

It’s the people who join a Rotary club! Rotarians are busy people just like you. They are your neighbors, your co-workers, your kid’s friends’ parents. They are your tax preparer, accountant, lawyer, car salesman, insurance man or woman, professor, doctor or dentist, hotel manager, restaurant owner, public relations manager, or graphics printer. They are engineers, advisors, consultants, educators and sales people. They sell you your home, prepare your taxes, fix your heater, and teach your kids.

But what sets them apart from other busy people is that Rotarians have an obsession about solving problems and wanting to help others. They are constantly on the lookout for areas of concern in the community that need to be addressed. It might be a local park in disrepair, a student who needs financial help, or a non-profit organization that needs more cash. Then they look for additional resources or partners to make the changes that are necessary.

Their focus is not only on the communities where they live but humanitarian issues around the globe.

Members of the Newark Morning Rotary Club are typical of the more than 1,220,000 Rotarians around the world. Look at their bios in this Report and you will see they all have busy lives outside of Rotary, too. Some are retired but most still work full-time. They are men and women of

all ages, some with young kids still of school age and others with grandchildren.

Even though Rotarians keep up on current events and may be conscious about political issues, you would never know it because politics plays no part in Rotary.

Newark Morning Rotarians are “morning people” in that their meeting days start early – 7 a.m. with the ring of the bell to convene their usual Thursday gathering. They are then ready for 75 minutes of fun, camaraderie, light-hearted joking and poking fun at one another. Guests often comment on the level of energy they have so early in the morning!

But all joking aside, they get down to business with a weekly program featuring a speaker from the community or a representative of a non-profit from the area. This is how they keep abreast of the pulse of Newark and really understand the needs of our neighbors.

Newark Morning Rotary Club meets every Thursday, 7:00 A.M.

A Board of Directors in each Rotary club guides that particular group in the decision making as to what projects, events, or direction the club wants to go, as long as it falls under the guidelines of Rotary International. Each club is independent of another.

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Fred Dawson, Wealth Manager, is the recipient of the 2023 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Advisors award.

The Forbes Top Wealth Advisors Best-In-State 2023 ranking, developed by SHOOK Research, is based on an algorithm of qualitative criteria, mostly gained through telephone and in-person due diligence interviews, and quantitative data. This ranking is based upon the period from 6/30/2021 to 6/30/2022 and was released on 4/4/2023. Those advisors that are considered have a minimum of seven years of experience, and the algorithm weights factors like revenue trends, assets under management, compliance records, industry experience and those that encompass best practices in their practices and approach to working with clients. Portfolio performance is not a criteria due to varying client objectives and lack of audited data. Out of approximately 39,007 nominations, 7,321 advisors received the award. This ranking is not indicative of an advisor’s future performance, is not an endorsement, and may not be representative of individual clients’ experience. Neither Raymond James nor any of its Financial Advisors or RIA firms pay a fee in exchange for this award/rating. Raymond James is not affiliated with Forbes or Shook Research, LLC.

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