August 19th-
Loma Vista 1st Grade Reading Kick-off meeting 

September 11th and 14th-
ECCHS BBQ set up and take down assistance 

September 20th:
Hispanic Festival- Beer Trailer Frothy Fanatics needed! 

November 7th:
Adam's Middle School- Pumpkins and Pancakes 

CROWNS, CURTSEYS & COMMUNITY SERVICE

A Very Noble Monday at the Rotary Club of Brentwood

Monday, August 17, 2026

If you arrived at Rotary this Monday expecting the usual lunch, fellowship and community service, you may have been slightly concerned to discover that we had apparently become a branch office of Buckingham Palace.

There were Dukes and Duchesses, Lords and Ladies, Knights, garters, a crown, an increasingly ambitious Olga - and eventually a President suggesting that "Sir will be fine."

And that was before Erin started fining people.

Welcome to another perfectly normal meeting of the Rotary Club of Brentwood.

ENGLISH NOBILITY - AND OLGA'S SUSPICIOUS QUESTION

Our meeting began with a little British education.

Some time ago, Olga had asked what appeared to be a perfectly innocent question about English titles of nobility.

President Nigel immediately became suspicious.

So began our jolly ten-minute guide to:

English Nobility - How Titles Are Bestowed, and Olga's Bid for Aristocratic Greatness

The objective was to separate genuine British titles from knighthoods, medals, courtesy styles, royal ceremony and the questionable titles available for purchase on the internet.

And, importantly:

No actual titles were supposed to be conferred during lunch.

That last rule did not survive the presentation.

First Lesson: Not Every Posh Person Is a Lord

British titles make considerably more sense once you realize there are essentially two different ladders.

THE PEERAGE - Actual Ranks of Nobility

From the top:

Duke / Duchess
Marquess / Marchioness
Earl / Countess
Viscount / Viscountess
Baron / Baroness

A peerage can be hereditary or created for life.

Then there are:

HONOURS

These include things such as:

Sir / Dame
CBE / OBE / MBE
Companion of Honour
Orders of Chivalry

These are personal honours and generally do not make someone a member of the nobility.

So, for example, being knighted might make the President Sir Nigel.

It would not make him Lord Nigel - no matter how convincingly he pronounces Leicester.

HOW DO YOU ACTUALLY BECOME NOBLE?

Historically, there were several good strategies.

Be born into it.
Extremely efficient. Unfortunately, if you missed that opportunity, your forward planning was inadequate.

Marry into it.
Still technically possible, particularly if a Duke happens to wander into the buffet line at Club Los Meganos.

Serve the Monarch.
Military, political, administrative and national service have historically been routes to royal recognition.

Own lots of land and become extremely powerful.
Much more effective several centuries ago than it is today.

In modern Britain there are considerably fewer swords and considerably more paperwork.

Names are recommended, vetted and considered through established processes, with the Monarch formally creating peerages through Letters Patent.

And despite extensive investigation:

The King does not accept Venmo.

SIR, DAME, OBE, CBE... WHAT DOES IT ALL MEAN?

We then tackled another source of American confusion: Britain's honours system.

Among the levels discussed were:

GBE - Knight/Dame Grand Cross
KBE/DBE - Knight/Dame Commander
CBE - Commander
OBE - Officer
MBE - Member

There is also a Knight Bachelor, which allows a British recipient to use "Sir," but without post-nominal letters from an order.

And that brought us to an important lesson:

Honours do not equal peerage.

Sir Elton John sounds magnificently aristocratic.

But he's not a peer.

Lord Sugar, on the other hand, is.

WHAT DO YOU CALL THEM?

Naturally, once you've created all these titles, Britain requires rules about what everybody should call each other.

A Duke or Duchess can initially be addressed as:

"Your Grace."

A Knight is:

"Sir Firstname."

And a Dame:

"Dame Firstname."

One should apparently avoid inventions such as "Your Earlness."

The safest advice remained:

When in doubt, "Good afternoon" works on everyone.

This particular lesson would become unexpectedly important later in the meeting.

THE MOST NOBLE ORDER OF... THE GARTER?

Yes.

Garter.

Britain's highest order of chivalry is the Most Noble Order of the Garter, founded by Edward III in 1348.

Members are personally chosen by the Sovereign and may use KG or LG after their names.

It is enormously prestigious.

It is also not a peerage.

And, for our American Rotarians wondering whether they had heard the word correctly, a garter really is a band traditionally worn around the leg to hold up a stocking. Americans may be more familiar with the term from wedding traditions.

Which prompted an important clarification:

No, Olga - catching one at a wedding doesn't count.

CAN AN AMERICAN GET ONE OF THESE HONOURS?

Yes - foreign nationals can receive honorary British honours.

We used two Americans as examples:

Bill Bryson - OBE

and

Bill Gates - honorary KBE

But honorary awards don't generally allow foreign recipients to use "Sir" or "Dame."

And Bill Bryson's OBE wouldn't make him "Sir Bill" anyway because an OBE isn't a knighthood.

This did not appear to discourage Olga.

WHO IS ACTUALLY NOBLE?

We then tested the room with some familiar names.

Sir David Beckham - Knight, but not a peer.

Dame Judi Dench - Dame, but not a peer.

Sir Elton John - Knight, but not a peer.

Lord Sugar - Baron and life peer.

Baroness Thatcher - Life peer.

Sir Tony Blair KG - Knight Companion of the Order of the Garter, but not a peer.

The lesson?

"Sir" sounds terribly grand - but "Lord" is usually the peerage clue.

SOME PEOPLE ACTUALLY TURN THESE THINGS DOWN

This was perhaps the most difficult concept for Olga to understand.

Among those discussed were David Bowie, Albert Finney, David Hockney, Benjamin Zephaniah, L. S. Lowry and John Lennon.

Some declined honours; Lennon famously received an MBE and later returned the insignia.

Olga's predicted refusal rate:

0.000%

"BECOME A LORD FOR $49.95!"

And what about those websites promising to make you a Lord or Lady by purchasing a tiny piece of land?

Excellent souvenir.

Possibly a certificate.

Maybe even a mug.

But it doesn't create a genuine UK peerage.

Our simple rule:

If your title arrives with a mug, mousepad and free shipping, it's probably not a peerage.

OLGA'S ASCENT TO ARISTOCRATIC GREATNESS

Having established the constitutional facts, we naturally ignored all of them.

Olga's entirely unofficial Rotary pathway was revealed:

Step 1: Ask one innocent question at Rotary.
Step 2: Dame Olga.
Step 3: Baroness Olga of Brentwood.
Step 4: Lady Companion of the Garter.
Step 5: Her Grace, Olga, Duchess of Brentwood.

Requirements apparently include charm, service, patience — and a word with the King.

By powers absolutely not vested in the President of the Rotary Club of Brentwood, Olga's noble ambitions were duly recognized.

Her title remains under review.

Her aristocratic confidence remains unquestioned.

And it all started with one innocent question at Rotary.

PENNIES FOR POLIO

Having resolved the British constitutional crisis, we returned to Rotary business.

In preparation for World Polio Day, milk jugs have appeared on our tables for Pennies for Polio.

Members are encouraged to bring spare change each week as we build our collection.

So search your pockets, car cup holders, kitchen drawers and sofas.

A handful of change may seem insignificant, but Rotary's campaign against polio is a wonderful example of what happens when millions of seemingly small actions are combined toward one enormous goal.

ROTARIANS OUT & ABOUT - WYOMING STYLE

Mike and Marsha recently visited Sheridan, Wyoming, where Mike had previously met the local Assistant Governor.

He was invited to visit their Rotary meeting - and given five minutes on the program.

The Sheridan club has around 85 members and sponsors a steam engine displayed outside its meeting location.

They also sing at the end of meetings.

All very civilized.

Until somebody advised Mike:

"Put your hands over your ears."

Apparently, they fired a pistol at the back of the room.

Some Rotary clubs ring a bell.

Wyoming apparently prefers gunpowder.

Mike and Marsha exchanged Rotary banners with the Sheridan club and brought their banner home to Brentwood.

PEACE TAKES ROOT AT ADAMS MIDDLE SCHOOL

Julie Deck reported on the recent Peace Pole dedication at Adams Middle School, attended by a great group of Brentwood Rotarians.

The most impressive part was the students' involvement.

The school's student union adopted the Peace Pole as one of its first projects and interviewed students around campus to learn what languages were spoken in their homes.

That research resulted in the eight languages appearing on their Peace Pole.

Julie explained that Rotary intentionally allows the students and schools to lead these ceremonies. Rotary supports, participates and presents the certificate, but the students make the project their own.

More local schools are now expressing interest in Peace Poles and Peace Paths, and additional meetings and dedications are already in the works.

The Peace Pole program is clearly gathering momentum.

DENISE GOES FROM RED TO BLUE

We then celebrated a significant milestone as Denise Rugani received her blue badge, a moment also highlighted in the meeting presentation.

Denise reflected on what she has enjoyed during her Rotary journey.

She spoke particularly passionately about Girls Empowerment and the importance of encouraging young women early in life to believe they can enter whatever fields they choose.

She also talked about our barbecues, support of local schools and the extraordinary willingness of Brentwood Rotarians to step forward whenever somebody needs help.

Her comments beautifully captured our club:

When there's a need, this club figures out how to fill it.

Members stood and pledged to continue giving Denise the friendship and support that make Rotary membership meaningful.

Congratulations, Denise.

The red badge is gone.

You're officially one of us now.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT - LOG THOSE HOURS!

Shannon returned to a subject she introduced at Club Assembly: engagement.

Her message was simple.

There is something here for everybody.

Committees, service projects, fundraising, fellowship, youth activities and community projects all provide different ways to participate.

If you're looking for a doorway into greater involvement, ask. We'll help you find one.

Shannon also encouraged everyone to download and use the Ignite app.

Club projects are being added to Ignite, and members should record their service hours. Those hours feed through Rotary's systems and help demonstrate the real economic and community impact of the work our club performs.

If you spent the time doing the work:

Please log it.

Otherwise, as far as the statistics are concerned, you were apparently sitting at home watching television.

PAUL HARRIS PUNCH OR FOUR-WAY FIZZ?

Shannon also previewed our upcoming TGIS - Thank Goodness It's Saturday gathering on August 29 at 5:00 p.m., which was featured in the meeting slides.

Along with barbecue and fellowship, there will apparently be two special Rotary beverages:

Paul Harris Punch

and

Four-Way Fizz

One contains alcohol.

One doesn't.

You'll have to attend to discover which is which.





 

THE DUCHESS RETURNS - AND ERIN WANTS PROTOCOL

Then came Sergeant-at-Arms Erin Summit.

After sitting through ten minutes of British nobility, Erin understandably needed clarification about titles.

There was discussion of crowns and Duchesses before Erin asked the President what she should call him.

The response was immediate:

"Sir will be fine."

Before anyone contacted Buckingham Palace to verify the announcement, Nigel explained that in Britain "Sir" can simply be a respectful form of address.

For example, a British school student might address a male teacher as:

"Sir."

No knighthood required.

Whether Erin intends to demonstrate this newfound level of respect at future meetings remains highly doubtful.

And with the constitutional question resolved, she resumed fining people.

ALOHA, NICK!

Nick was in Hawaii.

Unfortunately, Erin's jurisdiction apparently extends across the Pacific.

Members were encouraged to text him "Aloha" on Erin's behalf.

Nick began responding almost immediately.

There truly is nowhere to hide from the Brentwood Rotary Sergeant-at-Arms.

WONDERFUL NEWS FROM ERIN

Before commencing the full roasting of the membership, Erin shared some important personal news.

Her 27-year-old daughter is moving forward in recovery.

Erin thanked members for their support and asked everyone to continue keeping her daughter in their thoughts and prayers.

The room's response was warm and immediate.

It was a reminder that beneath all the fines, teasing and laughter is something much more important:

We genuinely care about one another.

CONFESSIONS, ANNIVERSARIES & PRESIDENTIAL PUNCTUATION

Oscar had some traveling to explain.

Tony enjoyed temporary fine immunity and instead reminded everyone that he's a local financial advisor and available as a resource.

Adam was recognized for being such a strong advocate for Brentwood, including his live coverage of the city's Concerts in the Park.

Then the President made the dangerous decision to confess:

"My spelling is atrocious."

Erin immediately responded:

"So is your punctuation."

It's wonderful to lead such a supportive organization.

Wedding anniversaries, club anniversaries, family accomplishments and other confessions continued generating both laughter and money.

Several members reflected on how long they had been in Rotary, who originally sponsored them and what keeps them coming back.

Again and again, the answer came back to:

Service. Friendship. Community.

WELCOME, JOEY!

Roger shared some wonderful family news about his grandson:

Joseph James - "Joey"

Born in May to Roger's son Zach and daughter-in-law Alex, Joey is doing wonderfully.

Naturally, Erin saw a fundraising opportunity.

The hat went around the room.

Brentwood Rotarians contributed an impressive:

$216 Toward Paul Harris recognition for Joey, with Roger agreeing to match the amount.

Not bad for a young man who hasn't attended a single committee meeting.

Congratulations to Roger and the entire family.

SQUARES FOR GOOD PEOPLE DOING GOOD THINGS

The board filled rapidly as Rotarians purchased squares recognizing fellow members and community partners.

Among the stories was a combined $600 donation to a Walnut Creek-area nonprofit, helping provide practical necessities to people in need.

Elizabeth Clarke was thanked for donating the jugs being used for our Pennies for Polio collection.

Julie Deck received recognition for her continuing work on the Peace Pole program.

Kevin Allen received heartfelt recognition simply because members were so pleased to see him back with us.

And Roger earned a square after being spotted out in public properly wearing his Rotary pin.

Apparently Rotary surveillance is everywhere.

MEMBERSHIP MONTH — MARSHA TAKES OVER

Our main program belonged to Marsha, who reminded us that August is Membership Month.

Her presentation focused on two things:

ATTRACTING

and

ENGAGING

new and existing members.

Marsha began by asking:

Who's on the Membership Team?

A few hands went up.

Wrong answer.

Every hand should have gone up.

Every Rotarian is part of the Membership Team.

WHAT'S YOUR ELEVATOR SPEECH?

Marsha reminded us that every member should be able to explain Rotary quickly and naturally.

A good Rotary elevator speech contains four ingredients:

The Hook - community involvement.

Identity - I'm a member of the Rotary Club of Brentwood.

Impact - here's what we actually do.

Call to Action - come and see for yourself.

And Marsha made the final part particularly practical.

Don't merely say:

"You should come sometime."

Say:

"Come with me. I'll pick you up."

Invitation cards with QR codes are now available to make that conversation even easier.

WHERE ARE OUR FUTURE ROTARIANS?

Eventually, we all reach the point where we've asked every relative, friend and colleague who will still answer our calls.

So Marsha encouraged us to broaden our thinking.

Look at our professions and workplaces, fellowships and hobbies, community organizations, former members, online networks, Chamber events, ribbon cuttings, festivals and volunteer organizations.

And look at the professions missing from our club.

The DACdb classification list provides plenty of clues, ranging from financial services and educators to food services, legal, healthcare, transportation, manufacturing and nonprofits.

Don't have a dentist?

Invite your dentist.

Just perhaps wait until after the root canal.

RECRUITING IS ONLY HALF THE JOB

Getting someone through the door isn't enough.

We want them to become engaged.

Marsha emphasized that engaging members is really what retention is about.

Successful clubs provide worthwhile meetings, activities appealing to different interests, interactive experiences, lively programs, fun, recognition, meaningful service, connections and friendships.

Many people come for the service - but stay for the fellowship.

And Marsha offered another memorable thought:

"Recognition is our paycheck."

We're volunteers.

Nobody needs another paycheck from Rotary.

But everyone deserves to know their contribution matters.

WHAT WAS YOUR ROTARY "AHA" MOMENT?

Then Marsha's educator instincts took over.

We were going back to school.

Members were numbered off, moved to different tables and paired together.

No appeals were accepted.

The assignment was to develop either:

A Rotary elevator speech

or

A Rotary "Aha Moment."

The Aha Moment is that point where you stop merely paying Rotary dues and realize you've become a Rotarian.

Marsha's guidance was:

Start with why.

Choose one specific moment.

Describe the before and after.

Avoid Rotary jargon.

Keep it brief.

Finish with an invitation to action.

"I FOUND MY TEAM"

The stories that followed were perhaps the best part of the program.

One participant described approaching retirement and making a list of organizations he might join. Then one day he saw Rotarians helping his neighbor Bruce and discovered that the people doing the work were from Rotary.

Another talked about discovering the power of serving alongside an entire community of people rather than trying to serve alone.

Home Team and the ramp built for Bruce became examples.

Another member spoke about coming from generations of people who believed in giving - and then walking into Brentwood Rotary and discovering Peace projects, scholarships, mentoring, Girls Empowerment and countless other opportunities to serve.

Suddenly there was a place to put that desire to give.

Another member described joining the Chamber as a young professional and eventually discovering Rotary. His involvement with Clothes for Kids affected him so deeply that he subsequently brought family members along to participate.

Different backgrounds.

Different moments.

But the same realization:

"I found my team."

And that may have been the most powerful membership message of the entire afternoon.

AND FINALLY... JULIE FINDS THE BLACK MARBLE!

After Marsha received a thoroughly deserved:

"Splendid! Bloody good job!"

...it was time for the weekly drawing.

The first ticket produced a square on the board.

Then came the 50/50.  

With the pot sitting at around $125, Julie Deck held the winning ticket and faced the moment every Rotarian has been waiting for.

She reached into the bag...

And pulled the Black Marble!

Yes, after all those weeks of suspense, hopeful hands reaching into the bag, near misses and increasingly serious consideration of marble-selection strategy, Julie finally found it.

Congratulations, Julie!

The elusive Black Marble has officially been captured, the jackpot has been won, and somewhere a replacement marble is probably already nervous about next Monday.

ABCs OF ROTARY - THE MEETING AFTER THE MEETING

After the regular meeting adjourned, members were invited to stay for another ABCs of Rotary session led by Mike.

The conversation explored The Rotary Foundation - what it is, how our contributions work and how Foundation funds help Rotary tackle projects far beyond what an individual club could accomplish alone.

Topics included the Annual Fund, PolioPlus, Paul Harris recognition, Rotary's areas of focus and the way Foundation dollars can eventually return through grants to support Rotary projects.

For newer members especially, ABCs provides a valuable opportunity to understand how our local Brentwood club connects to the much larger world of Rotary.

A FINAL THOUGHT

Consider what happened in just one Rotary lunch.

We learned how somebody becomes a Duchess.

We discovered why catching a garter at a wedding doesn't qualify you for Britain's highest order of chivalry.

We promoted Olga to entirely fictitious aristocratic greatness.

We celebrated Denise becoming a blue badge Rotarian.

We heard about students creating their own Peace Pole.

We welcomed Kevin back.

We celebrated a new grandson.

We raised money.

Julie finally found the Black Marble.

We learned how to record our service.

We practiced telling other people why Rotary matters.

And then we listened as members explained why Rotary matters to them.

That's quite a lot for one Monday.

But the common thread wasn't really nobility, membership or even service projects.

It was belonging.

People come through our doors for all sorts of reasons.

Some are invited by friends.

Some come through business connections.

Some want to serve.

Some see Rotarians helping a neighbor.

And perhaps some simply ask an innocent question about becoming a Duchess.

But somewhere along the way, something changes.  You simply stop attending a Rotary club, but instead you become part of it.

And, if we're doing things properly, you eventually realize:

You've found your team.

Until next time:

Think good thoughts and do good deeds.
Be kind to others - and be kind to yourself.
Let's build a better world and be the shining example.

President Nigel
Rotary Club of Brentwood

Congratulations Jayne!

Dear JAYNE OERTWIG,

We're thrilled to share with you The Allstate Foundation Helping Hands Grant for BRENTWOOD ROTARY COMMUNITY FUND for your volunteerism is now approved. Grant Amount: $500.00 Volunteer Start Date: 2026-01-01 Hours Volunteered: 12 We will send a formal congratulatory email to BRENTWOOD ROTARY COMMUNITY FUND. We hope you will contact the organization as well to share the great news! Please note that the payment will be made directly to the nonprofit in approximately 4 weeks. Don't forget to promote the impact you've had on your community through social media by using the suggested posts below. If you have made a personal contribution to this organization or another qualifying nonprofit, The Allstate Foundation will match your contribution at 100% up to $1,000.00 (in matching funds per calendar year). Log on to My Helping Hands today to request a match! Thank you for being a positive force for change in your community.

Sincerely,
The Allstate Foundation 

Mark your calendars!

August 29th at 5pm

From British Accents to Big Jim

Another Bloody Marvelous Monday at the Rotary Club of Brentwood

Monday, August 10, 2026

If you missed Monday’s meeting, you missed one of those Rotary lunches that somehow managed to be funny, touching, educational, technically challenged and thoroughly Brentwood Rotary — all in the space of one meeting.

We traveled around Britain without leaving Brentwood, discovered that our Sergeant-at-Arms can turn a British vocabulary lesson into a fundraising opportunity, celebrated a new Blue Badge, heard a terrific “My Rotary Minute” from Rob Brandt, and then listened to James “Big Jim” Wangeman tell an extraordinary story spanning polio, an iron lung, military service, PG&E, Harvest Park Bowl, youth programs and more than half a century of Rotary. 

And yes…

Nigel lost his marbles again.

But more about that later.

UK ACCENTS — AND A PRESIDENTIAL “COCK-UP”

President Nigel continued his ongoing mission to educate — or perhaps completely confuse — his American Rotary colleagues about the mysteries of Britain.

This week’s subject was:

UK ACCENTS

For a relatively small collection of islands, Britain has an extraordinary variety of accents and dialects. Travel surprisingly short distances and the way people speak can change dramatically.

The plan was simple.

Put up the PowerPoint.

Play some videos.

Travel around Britain listening to different accents.

Have a few laughs.

What could possibly go wrong?

Apparently, quite a lot.

The video screen wasn't particularly interested in cooperating.

Some of the videos didn't display quite as planned, technology and the President weren't always communicating in the same language, and Nigel was also experiencing a few verbal malfunctions of his own.

In other words, the presentation itself was beginning to resemble one of those British expressions we've previously discussed:

A bit of a cock-up!

Sergeant-at-Arms Erin Summit, naturally, was paying very close attention.

And Erin never allows a good cock-up to go unmonetized.

WANT TO HEAR THE ACCENTS AGAIN?

For anyone who missed the meeting and would like to see the video — or those who would like another attempt at understanding what on earth these people are saying — here are the YouTube clips used during the presentation:

Why does the UK have so many accents?
https://youtu.be/6Weo6Y6LbJ4

Ranking the Hardest UK Accents to Understand
https://youtu.be/G2TNCdj6iIQ

The Best Accent in the UK Goes To…
https://youtu.be/Ltw9w6DIjs0

Welsh Accent in the Van
https://youtu.be/5mHG0gqxli8

North Meets South — Welsh Dialect
https://youtu.be/20kJ6_6QzCQ

Scottish Accent vs. Irish Accent
https://youtu.be/k3AgxhGU4JU

THE SCOTTISH ELEVATOR — AND THE $5 LANGUAGE LESSON

Then we arrived in Scotland.

One of the funniest examples was the Burnistoun sketch featuring two increasingly frustrated Scots attempting to operate a voice-controlled elevator.  Click here to watch!  

Their request seems simple enough.

They would like to go to the:

ELEVENTH FLOOR.

Unfortunately, the elevator's voice-recognition system has apparently never visited Scotland.

The two men try everything to make themselves understood, becoming increasingly frustrated as the elevator stubbornly refuses to recognize their Scottish pronunciation.

It was a perfect example of just how difficult a strong regional accent can be.

Unfortunately for Nigel, the real language problem occurred after the video.

Erin referred to one of the characters using the word:

“Wally.”

Now, Nigel had two choices.

Choice One: Keep quiet.

Choice Two: Correct the Sergeant-at-Arms.

Our President chose poorly.

With the confidence of a man who had apparently learned absolutely nothing from his previous dealings with Erin, Nigel helpfully explained:

“Actually, Erin, he said WILLY.”

There was probably a brief opportunity at this point for Nigel to reconsider his decision.

Too late.

$5 FINE!

So, to summarize:

The Scottish comedian said, “willy.”

Erin said, “wally.”

Nigel corrected Erin.

Nigel paid $5.

Welcome to Rotary justice.

And with the troublesome video screen, the technological challenges, the President’s verbal challenges and the general mayhem surrounding the presentation, Erin had already found the perfect British expression to describe the whole affair:

“COCK-UP!”

Apparently Erin is allowed to say it.

Nigel probably isn't.

Lesson of the week: Never correct the Sergeant-at-Arms when she's holding the fine book.

Or perhaps the better summary is:

Nigel teaches British English. Erin charges Tuition!

TIFFANY STEWART GOES BLUE!

We then moved to some very happy Rotary business as Tiffany Stewart completed the requirements to move from her Red Badge to her Blue Badge.

Tiffany was asked to reflect briefly on which part of the process had been particularly meaningful to her.

Her comments captured exactly why the Red Badge program matters.

By getting involved in projects and activities, new members begin to see firsthand how Rotary service affects people in our community — and how things many of us take for granted can be genuinely important to someone who needs help.

Tiffany completed the required activities, gathered the necessary signatures and officially earned her Blue Badge.

Members who were able stood to congratulate her.

Congratulations, Tiffany!

You've done the work.

You've earned the badge.

And now you're officially released into the wild as a fully-fledged Brentwood Rotarian!

THEN ERIN REALLY GOT TO WORK…

Having successfully extracted money from the President for providing an unsolicited Scottish vocabulary correction, Erin turned her attention to everyone else.

There were birthdays.

There were anniversaries.

There were late arrivals.

There were questions.

And there were answers that probably cost considerably more than the members anticipated.

In other words:

A perfectly normal Erin Summit production.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DAVE!

Among those caught in Erin’s sights was Dave Roach, whose birthday was coming up Sunday.

Asked what he planned to do, Dave seemed to have the essentials properly organized:

Friends over at the house.

Some steaks.

And perhaps a Corona.

Then somehow the conversation turned to contributing a dollar for every year.

Dave settled on:

$60

We shall leave readers to determine whether that was simply a generous Rotary contribution…

or an official admission of age.

Happy Birthday, Dave!

REMEMBERING SHELLIE  

The laughter paused for an important and poignant moment as we remembered our much-loved fellow Rotarian Shellie Seyer.

July marked Shellie’s 18th Rotary anniversary.

Although Shellie is no longer physically sitting among us, she remains very much part of the story of this club.

Eighteen years of Rotary represents countless meetings, projects, friendships, conversations and acts of Service Above Self.

More importantly, Shellie wasn't simply remembered as a longtime Rotarian.

She was remembered as a friend.

Shellie will be missed, remembered and always remain part of the Rotary Club of Brentwood family.

ROTARY ANNIVERSARIES

Jessica Busman was recognized for four years with the club.

When asked what she had enjoyed most, Jessica spoke about something we hear repeatedly from longtime Rotarians:

The friendships.

Those friendships haven't just benefited Jessica.

She explained that her husband doesn't get out very much, but through Rotary he has now developed some pretty good golf buddies.

Jessica also spoke warmly about the service work she has been able to participate in, particularly projects involving young people and work in Mexico.

Friendships matter.

But so does the work.

And Jessica clearly loves both.

JoAnn Klement

JoAnn Klement was also recognized for her Rotary anniversary.

There was a little good-natured debate over exactly how many years she had been a member — apparently Rotary longevity does not necessarily improve one's memory.

JoAnn decided to mark the occasion with $20 contribution to PolioPlus.

Considering who our featured speaker was that afternoon, that turned out to be a particularly appropriate choice.

Thank you, JoAnn — and happy Rotary anniversary!

DENISE AND TWO YEARS OF ROTARY

Denise was also recognized for her Rotary anniversary.

Erin pointed out that Denise was approaching her Blue Badge after roughly two years.

Apparently that's about normal.

Although, as Denise could reasonably argue, most people aren't also busy being a school superintendent!

Denise spoke warmly about Rotary's generosity toward our students and schools and how club members are always willing to step forward when help is needed.

She particularly highlighted the work involving middle-school girls and empowerment, a program that clearly means a great deal to her.

Denise then backed up those words with a generous:

$50 contribution.

Thank you, Denise!

SQUARES, SQUARES AND MORE SQUARES

Then the squares started flying.

Members bought squares to recognize friends, fellow Rotarians, golf outings, weddings, projects, good deeds and — naturally — each other.

There was a family wedding organized on rather short notice, producing a scramble involving a wedding cake and cupcakes.

We heard appreciation for work being done on the Peace Pole/Peace Path project, with more information expected to come before the club soon.

There were squares honoring visitors and friends, including Big Jim, and plenty of good-natured recognition around the room.

The exact accounting may require forensic assistance.

But once again, members found plenty of reasons to recognize one another while supporting Rotary in the process.

ROB BRANDT’S “MY ROTARY MINUTE”  

This week it was Rob Brandt’s turn to tell us how his Rotary journey began.

And, as we're rapidly discovering, “My Rotary Minute” operates on roughly the same timekeeping system as a Rotary committee meeting.

Rob took us back to 1997.  A former classmate who was serving as Rotary president had been encouraging Rob to come along to lunch.  But Rob resisted for a while although eventually, around March, he gave in and said, essentially:

“Sure, let's go.”

He walked into a room of roughly 20-plus people — businesspeople, retirees and community leaders.  He knew some of them, others would eventually become important people in his life.

Nearly 30 years later, Rob explained what has kept him involved.

The friendships.

The camaraderie.

The people.

Rob remembered the Rotarians who became mentors, particularly when he later served as club president in 1999–2000, and reflected on the many friends from those early days who are sadly no longer with us.

Of course, Rotary also produces professional and business connections.

But as Rob made clear:

That's not why you join a service club.

Looking around the room at people he has known for decades, Rob summed up his Rotary journey beautifully:

“All of you are my friends.”

And perhaps that's exactly what My Rotary Minute is intended to reveal.

We may join Rotary because somebody invites us to lunch.

We may stay because we believe in Service Above Self.

But somewhere along the way, something else happens.  We become friends!

Thank you, Rob, for sharing your Rotary Minute — even if, like most things in Rotary, it lasted slightly longer than a minute!

AND THEN CAME BIG JIM 

Rob's reflections on nearly three decades of Rotary provided the perfect transition to a man whose Rotary journey stretches even further back.

Our featured speaker was:

JAMES “BIG JIM” WANGEMAN

Big Jim has been a Rotarian since 1974.  

But he wasn't invited simply because of his extraordinary Rotary longevity.

He came to tell us about something very few people alive today can describe firsthand.

Big Jim is a polio survivor.

POLIO — 1945

Jim was just seven years old when he contracted polio in 1945.

There was no polio vaccine.

Jim remembers the severe pain.

And he remembers his greatest fear:

THE IRON LUNG

Jim spent approximately one month inside an iron lung.

For a seven-year-old child, it must have been terrifying.

He recalled being inside the machine, with very limited opportunities to come out, as it helped him through the effects of the disease.

But Jim survived.

Remarkably, he escaped the paralysis that affected so many other polio victims.

And after leaving the iron lung, he went on to live what he described as a remarkably normal and active life.

He played:

Football.

Basketball.

Baseball.

Later, he played competitive fast-pitch softball and told us his team went to the World Championships twice.

Not bad for a kid who once lay inside an iron lung wondering what his future might hold.

ANOTHER BRUSH WITH DEATH

During his senior year of high school, while playing football, Jim suffered an injury to his shin that developed into a severe infection.

His condition became so serious that Jim recalled his mother, doctor and a priest gathering at the hospital.

He was given the last rites.

Doctors believed amputation might be necessary to save his life.

His mother refused.

Jim remembers her saying:

“Jimmy’s in God’s hands.”

For weeks, doctors treated the infection.

And once again…

BIG JIM SURVIVED.

And because this is Brentwood Rotary, after hearing an extraordinary story about a teenage boy almost dying, somebody naturally asked the most important question:

“Did you win the football game?”

Jim's answer?

YES.

Of course he did.

THE AIR FORCE AND PG&E

Life dealt Jim another devastating blow when his mother died of a massive heart attack in 1956. His father had died several years earlier.

Still a young man, Jim found himself essentially on his own.

He joined the United States Air Force in 1956 and served for four years.

Jim credits the military with helping him grow up and preparing him for the life ahead.

After leaving the service, he joined PG&E.

His original job description could probably be summarized as:

GRUNT.

He dug holes.

A lot of holes.

Jim quickly concluded that this was not going to be his lifetime career plan.

He worked his way into the office and became involved with joint-trench coordination and underground construction, eventually developing procedures used within PG&E.

HARVEST PARK BOWL

For Brentwood residents, however, another chapter of Big Jim’s story may be even more familiar.

In 1994, Jim and his wife took a huge gamble and built Harvest Park Bowl.

Brentwood then had a population of only around 12,000.

There wasn't much around them.

It was a risk.

According to Jim, he wasn't entirely convinced it was a good idea.

His wife was.

Fortunately…

SHE WON.

Harvest Park Bowl grew along with Brentwood and became much more than somewhere to knock down ten pins.

It became a community gathering place.

And for many years it was also part of the life of the Rotary Club of Brentwood.

Members recalled Rotary Board meetings being held there and Jim making the facility available whenever Rotary needed somewhere to gather.

A LEGACY FOR BRENTWOOD’S YOUTH

Perhaps the most impressive part of the Harvest Park Bowl story wasn't the building itself.

It was what happened inside it.

Jim described youth bowling programs that at times involved approximately 120 children each season.

Fundraisers generated money for scholarships.

Young bowlers went on to college with scholarship assistance earned through those programs.

One member recalled his own son receiving approximately $8,000 in scholarship money.

Others remembered free bowling opportunities for local children, tournaments and the enormous number of Brentwood families touched by the program.

At one point, Jim said, the youth bowling program at Harvest Park Bowl was among the leading programs nationally.

That's quite a legacy.

ROTARY MEMORIES STARTED POURING OUT

Once Jim began talking, something rather wonderful happened.

Other Rotarians began telling their stories about Jim.

There were memories of barbecues.

Rotisserie chicken.

Late-night high-school events.

Pancakes.

Youth programs.

Bowling tournaments.

Rotary Board meetings.

And then there was the legendary Super Bowl Sunday barbecue competition, born from some friendly disagreement over who made the better tri-tip.

Naturally, the only sensible Rotary solution was:

Have a competition.

Decades later, the tradition continues.

“GIVE PEOPLE THEIR ROSES”

One member perhaps captured the mood of the room better than anyone.

Rather than asking Jim a question, she simply thanked him.

For his service.

For his work with young people.

For everything he had done for the community.

For the lives he had influenced.

She explained that she believes in:

“Giving people their roses.”

In other words, don't wait until someone is gone to tell them what they meant to you.

Tell them while they're here to hear it.

On Monday afternoon…

Big Jim received a room full of roses.

A VERY SPECIAL ROTARY RECOGNITION

The afternoon concluded with a recognition that had been waiting for the right moment.

Big Jim received a special lifetime Rotary honor recognizing his extraordinary years of service.

His family was invited forward.

Photographs were taken.

There were smiles all around.

And we also learned that Jim has graciously agreed to participate in a living-history video, preserving some of these stories for future generations of Brentwood Rotarians.

That's important.

Organizations like ours aren't built simply from bylaws, Board meetings, fundraisers and minutes.

They're built from:

People.

Friendships.

Service.

And stories.

And Big Jim has quite a story.

“I AM A SURVIVOR”

At 88 years old, Jim continues to deal with long-term problems he associates with the polio he contracted as a seven-year-old boy.

He described the pain and difficulties that returned decades later and the ongoing treatment required for his legs.

But throughout his presentation one message came through repeatedly:

“I AM A SURVIVOR.”

And then, just in case the room was becoming a little too emotional, Big Jim reminded us that at 88 he is:

“Still chasing women.”

There is, apparently, only one problem.

He can't catch them.

Big Jim…

We wouldn't bet against you.

WHY POLIO STILL MATTERS TO ROTARY

For many of us, polio belongs in a history book.

For Big Jim, it is personal.

He lived it.

He remembers being seven years old.

He remembers the pain.

He remembers the iron lung.

He remembers a world without a vaccine.

And more than eight decades later, he continues living with consequences he associates with that disease.

That's why Rotary's commitment to PolioPlus is about much more than another fundraising program.

Behind every statistic is:

A child.

A family.

A life.

On Monday, Big Jim reminded us what those numbers actually represent.

AND FINALLY… NIGEL LOST HIS MARBLES

After British accents, malfunctioning technology, Blue Badges, Erin’s fines, birthdays, anniversaries, squares, Rob’s Rotary memories, polio, an iron lung, Harvest Park Bowl and a lifetime Rotary recognition, there was only one logical way to end the meeting:

Nigel’s marbles.

The 50/50 winner was offered a choice.

Take one of the goodies…

OR

Risk it and attempt to draw the elusive:

BLACK MARBLE

With 14 white marbles still lurking in the bag and the jackpot at approximately $107, our brave Jayne Oertwig made the decision:

GO FOR THE MARBLE!

The bag was shaken.

The room waited.

A hand went in.

A marble emerged…

And…

WHITE!

The black marble survives another week.

Which means Nigel hasn't completely lost his marbles.

Yet.

NEXT WEEK

Next Monday we continue our journey through:

THE ABCs OF ROTARY — PART TWO

Who knows what the President will teach us next?

Perhaps the more important question is:

What will Erin fine him for?

FINAL THOUGHT

Monday’s meeting demonstrated something rather special about Rotary.

We laughed about accents.

We laughed at our President's technological difficulties.

We celebrated a new Blue Badge.

We raised money by fining one another for ridiculous things.

We celebrated birthdays and Rotary anniversaries.

We remembered a friend we recently lost.

We listened to Rob Brandt explain how an invitation to lunch almost 30 years ago led to decades of friendship.

And then we listened to an 88-year-old man tell us what it was like to be a frightened seven-year-old inside an iron lung in 1945 — and how that little boy went on to serve his country, build businesses, help generations of young people and devote more than half a century to Rotary.

That's quite a lot to fit into one Monday lunch.

But perhaps that's Rotary.

Friendship.

Service.

Laughter.

Memories.

And people who make a difference.

Thank you, Rob, for sharing your Rotary journey.

Thank you, Big Jim, for sharing your remarkable life with us.

And thank you to everyone who made Monday another memorable meeting of the:

ROTARY CLUB OF BRENTWOOD

Service Above Self

We were honored to have a past president and polio survivor, Jim Wangeman , speak at our club on August 10th.

If you would like to know more about Jim and his life, here's a link to an article from The Press that you will enjoy reading:

The Press

Peace Pole News Alert!

The Brentwood Rotary Weekly

Blue Badges, Peace Poles, Pork Pies—and One Very Welcome Return

Monday, August 3, 2026

There are ordinary Rotary meetings, and then there are meetings featuring British history, blue badges, employment lawyers, electric trucks, cycling expeditions, spray tans, pork pies, a possible hobbit, and enough fines to keep the club solvent for another week.

This was definitely the second kind.

President Nigel opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by an enthusiastic—if somewhat freestyle—rendition of the Four-Way Test lead by Greg Robinson, who launched into it from his table at the back.

Welcome to Our Guests

We were delighted to welcome several guests, including Charlotte, introduced by her mother, Rotarian Jessica Busman; next John Dodson who is on his second visit to our club, he has recently retired from the Liberty Union High School District and apparently a keen cyclist, he's checking us out.  Lenore Medina, principal of Edna Hill Middle School; and Jim Hamilton of Delta Community Services.

We also welcomed a first-time visitor from Brentwood, Kiran's friend Ravi Marwaha.  Todd then introduced Patti Stiker. Patti is a former member of the Rotary Club of Foster City, and pleased to have her join us. 

Most importantly, the entire room was thrilled to welcome Kevin Allen back to Rotary and he introduced his wife Leslie.

After everything Kevin and his family have experienced during the past several weeks, seeing “The Kevinator” back in the room was deeply meaningful. The applause, smiles, donations, and warm words made it very clear how much Kevin has been missed—and how grateful everyone is to see him returning to his Rotary family.

Rotarians Out and About—On Two Wheels

Tim Dahl, spoke and reported another successful ride.

The rides are designed to include cyclists of different ability levels, with the route and pace adjusted to suit the least-experienced participant. That means you do not need professional cycling gear, an aerodynamic helmet, or legs resembling those of a Tour de France competitor.

You simply need a bicycle and a willingness to enjoy the company.

Another organized ride is expected during the first week of September, although informal rides may take place before then. Members interested in participating should speak with Steve Walker, Past President Greg Robinson, or one of the club’s other enthusiastic cyclists.

When someone asked whether there was a charge to participate, the answer was no—although voluntary contributions to the Past President’s Ferrari Fund will apparently continue to be accepted.

Elizabeth Clarke Goes from Red to Blue

One of the happiest moments of the meeting was the presentation of a blue badge to Elizabeth Clarke. Todd Moeller conducted the ceremony.

Moving from a red badge to a blue badge recognizes that a new member has taken the time to learn about the club, meet fellow Rotarians, understand our activities, and discover opportunities to serve.

Elizabeth said one of the most meaningful parts of her Rotary journey has been discovering just how much the Brentwood Rotary Club does for the community. She described the number of projects, fundraisers, and service activities as impressive—and perhaps a little overwhelming for someone experiencing them for the first time.

Elizabeth also revealed something members may not have suspected: she considers herself shy and nervous.

She warned everyone that smiling at her may result in her sitting down and talking with them for quite some time.

This warning is unlikely to discourage anyone.

Congratulations, Elizabeth. It is a privilege to have you as a fully blue-badged member of the Brentwood Rotary Club.

New Donation Information CardsPast President Julie Deck announced that the club’s donation information cards have been updated and reprinted.

The cards explain the different ways members may direct their contributions, including gifts to The Rotary Foundation, Paul Harris recognition, the Brentwood Rotary Club Foundation, and the club’s endowment.

The cards contain a considerable amount of information—possibly enough to require reading glasses, a magnifying glass, or both. Julie acknowledged that the next version may need to be larger, particularly because Rotary continues to create new ways for generous people to do good things.

Copies will be available on the tables and near the entrance.

Peace Poles Are Spreading Across Brentwood

PP Julie Deck reports that the club’s Peace Pole project continues to gather impressive momentum.

A Peace Pole has already been installed at Marsh Creek Elementary School, and a second has now been planted at Adams Middle School. Information about the Adams dedication ceremony will be shared once the date is confirmed.

Even more exciting, nine additional schools have expressed an interest in participating.

Meetings are being arranged with school representatives, and the Peace Committee gathered immediately following Monday’s club meeting to continue planning. Members will have opportunities to work directly with participating schools.

The goal is to place Peace Poles at as many Brentwood schools as possible, creating visible reminders of kindness, understanding, cooperation, and peaceful conflict resolution.

Julie noted that only a few schools remain uncommitted. It was jokingly suggested that these schools may simply be “against peace,” although the committee remains reasonably confident that diplomacy will eventually prevail.

Community Service Update

Shannon Stone reports Rotarians are being asked to help grill hot dogs for the Marsh Creek Elementary back-to-school carnival this week.

JoAnn is leading the activity and will be on site beginning at approximately 3:30 p.m.

Members who enjoy grilling—or who can at least distinguish a cooked hot dog from an uncooked one—are encouraged to help.

The club is also beginning the third year of its first-grade reading program at Loma Vista Elementary School.

JoAnn and Past President Dana Eaton are working to expand the reading program to additional Brentwood elementary schools. This will require more volunteers, and members are encouraged to participate or recommend other dependable community volunteers who enjoy helping young children develop a love of reading.

Things may feel relatively quiet at the moment, but members were warned that this is merely the lull before the holiday season.

In other words: enjoy your free evenings while they last.
 

Digs & Rigs Is Rolling Forward

Amy Tilley reports that planning for Digs & Rigs is underway, and the committee will meet again Wednesday at 5:00 p.m. at Brentwood's Craft Beer & Cider.

Anyone who has served on the committee previously—or who would like to become involved this year—is encouraged to attend.

Early reports suggest that plans are progressing well and that the committee is determined to continue building on the success of previous years.

An Electric Dryer Is Needed

Olga Vidriales mentioned Melissa McCarthy, who previously spoke to the club about local Life Skills students, has shared a practical need.

The classroom teaches students important independent-living skills, including washing and drying their own clothing. Unfortunately, the program has been without a working electric dryer for approximately a year and a half.

Anyone who has a usable electric dryer available for donation is asked to contact the club. Should a donated machine not be found, members may organize a small fundraising effort to purchase one.

This is an opportunity to meet a very real need for local students right here in our community.

Sergeant-at-Arms: Olga Takes the Microphone

The day’s Sergeant-at-Arms was Olga Vidriales, who bravely stepped forward to fill the position normally occupied by Erin Summit who was not able to attend today, she should be back next week.

Olga admitted to being nervous!

This was understandable.

Erin has established a formidable standard involving volume, confidence, investigative skill, and the ability to detect fineable conduct from approximately 300 yards away.

To prepare herself, Olga reportedly listened to Alanis Morissette throughout the week in an effort to summon the necessary emotional intensity.

It worked!

Among the day’s alleged offenses:

• A longtime real estate professional, Glenn Huxtable was fined following a complicated calculation involving approximately 30 years in the business.

A table containing far too many men was fined on a per-man basis and advised to improve its gender balance.

• IPP Tim Dahl was addressed as he was a woman! He announced that was the best compliment he had all week. 
• One member, Wade Ellenberger, was discovered wearing another Rotarian’s badge.

• A normally quiet Rotarian, Eric Soiland, was accused of ignoring a fellow member (Olga) at Costco while concentrating intensely on the free samples.

• Tony was fined for arriving late, although he successfully transformed the proceedings into a promotion for the Brentwood Chamber of Commerce’s fifth annual Hispanic Heritage Festival and car show on September 20.

• Past President Dirk Zeigler became involved in a pricing dispute that escalated rapidly from one dollar to five. 

• Dave was reminded of a previous suggestion that he use a gift card to purchase a spray tan after appearing in shorts at Tim’s demotion party.

A proposal was briefly considered passing the hat for Dave’s spray tan.

Fortunately, the discussion ended before anyone was required to inspect the current condition of his legs.

Olga may have begun nervously, but by the end of the session she appeared entirely comfortable relieving members of their money.

Erin should be proud—and perhaps a little concerned.


Happy Birthday, Rhonda! 

The club celebrated Rhonda’s birthday, which took place Saturday.

Rhonda enjoyed pizza with friends, which was judged to be a perfectly sensible birthday decision. However, hubby forgot the cake! He'll have to do better next year!

Members were reminded that Rhonda is a highly respected employment attorney, a longtime Rotarian, a former board member, a generous event sponsor, and a strong supporter of the club.

Mondays can be difficult for an employment attorney to attend Rotary, particularly because employees occasionally spend the weekend making questionable decisions and then decide on Monday morning that they need legal advice, not  to mention the holiday parties.

Happy birthday, Rhonda, and thank you for all you have done for the Brentwood Rotary Club.

Squares, Celebrations and Generosity

Once the fines ended, members began purchasing squares and making donations.

Many of the squares were purchased in honor of Kevin, celebrating his return to the club. Additional squares were bought in recognition of Kevin’s wife, Leslie, whose love, strength, and care have supported him throughout his recovery.

Other squares recognized:

• Rhonda’s birthday

• Steve Walker and the successful Rotary bike ride

• The volunteers who organized club activities

• Rotarians who continue to quietly serve and support the club

Tiffany purchased three squares on behalf of her children, explaining that they had all prayed for Kevin and would be thrilled to know that he had returned to Rotary.

It was one of those moments that captured what Rotary fellowship is truly about.

Ten Thousand Miles and $57 for the Endowment

Greg Robinson, who had just returned, reported that he, his wife, and their dog had been away for 57 days, traveling approximately 10,060 miles.

To mark the journey, he donated $57 to the club endowment—one dollar for every day they were away.

 

A New Black Electric Truck!

Dana Eaton confessed to acquiring a black electric Ford truck.

The purchase came about because his son needs transportation for college and will receive the family’s well-loved 2014 Ford Explorer. This created an entirely reasonable justification for Dad to acquire a newer electric truck.

There was some debate over whether purchasing a blue over black vehicle should automatically eliminate any fine.

The defense was creative but not entirely successful.

Members were invited to admire the truck after the meeting!

Honoring a Longtime Rotarian and Firefighter 

Richard Palmer was called to his feet after spending much of the meeting offering helpful commentary to the Sergeant-at-Arms.

Richard has been involved in Rotary for many years and served his community as a firefighter, running toward emergencies while others were running away.

The club recognized his years of Rotary service, generosity, sponsorships, fellowship, and commitment to supporting club activities.

After all those kind words, he was still fined five dollars for being “a pain.”

That, too, is Rotary fellowship.

Safe Travels

Richard Palmer announced that, after being home for approximately 90 days, he will be departing for another 90-day journey beginning Tuesday.

The trip will include Nashville, Tennessee, and the entire journey will be made by road.

He promised to visit Rotary clubs during his travels and asked everyone to remember him when he returns.

Safe travels—and please return with photographs, stories, and sufficient funds for the inevitable confession.

British Language Lesson of the Week

The conversation then wandered—quite naturally—into British swear words and expressions.

“Sod off” was discussed at some length, including an explanation that a “sod” can also refer to a piece of grass or turf.

This explanation may not have been entirely helpful, but it did provide everyone with another British expression to add to the growing vocabulary list.

“Bloody hell” also made an appearance, although the club’s official swear-jar rules remain under review.

Tim Herbert, stepped in to rescue Nigel from explaining any more bad language.

Delta Community Services Supports Science Camp

The club was honored to hear from Jim Hamilton of Delta Community Services and Lenore Medina, principal of Edna Hill Middle School.

Delta Community Services is made up of hundreds of local residents who work together to give back to the community, with a strong emphasis on education and assistance for people whose needs might otherwise go unnoticed.

Jim explained that the organization provides significant support to local schools, including funding for technology and student programs.

Delta Community Services has supported Edna Hill Middle School’s sixth-grade science camp for several years, contributing approximately $8,000 annually to help students who might not otherwise be able to participate.

Principal Medina explained that a significant percentage of Edna Hill families face economic challenges. Science camp is an important educational and social experience, but the cost can prevent some students from attending.

She shared the story of an incoming sixth-grade student who had operated a lemonade stand and saved $150 toward science camp because her older brother had been unable to attend.

With scholarship assistance now available, that student will be able to attend camp and keep her carefully earned savings for another purpose.

The student thanked Principal Medina shortly before Monday’s meeting.

It was a powerful reminder that a community grant is more than a number written on a check. It can become a child’s first night away from home, a new friendship, a science experiment, a walk through nature, and a memory that lasts for years.

The Brentwood Rotary Club is proud to partner with Delta Community Services in supporting Edna Hill students.

When the Speaker Cancels, Send in the Englishman

The scheduled speaker was Stacey Martin-Bonaduce, Program & Grants Manager for Sustainable Contra Costa.

Unfortunately, Stacey was unable to attend, and her presentation has been rescheduled for October.

This left President Nigel with the challenge of filling the program at very short notice.

Fortunately, Nigel possesses three important qualifications:

1. He owns PowerPoint.

2. He is British.

3. He is not afraid to use either one.

The resulting presentation took members on a whirlwind tour of the United Kingdom, Leicester, British history, regional accents, pork pies, blue cheese, royal executions, Roman ruins, Monty Python, and hobbits.

The United Kingdom Compared with California  

Nigel began by helping members visualize the size and population of the United Kingdom in comparison with California.

The United Kingdom has approximately 69 million people living within about 94,000 square miles.

California has approximately 39 million people spread across about 163,700 square miles.

In other words, California is roughly 75 percent larger geographically, while the United Kingdom contains around 30 million more people.

Despite its population density, Britain still has extensive countryside, partly because of planning protections intended to preserve undeveloped green spaces.

Nigel also explained that the distance from Land’s End in southern England to John o’ Groats in northern Scotland is comparable to traveling much of the length of California.

However, British accents can change dramatically within very short distances. A person may travel only 40 miles and encounter an accent that sounds as though it came from an entirely different country.

Welcome to Leicestershire

Nigel grew up in Wigston, near Leicester, in the East Midlands.

He described the Midlands as the home of ordinary folk—and possibly Hobbits ( Tolkin was from Oxfordshire which is 40 miles South of Leicester)

Leicestershire is connected with several important historical events and figures, including:

• The Battle of Bosworth Field

• The Wars of the Roses

• King Richard III

• The Tudor Rose

• Roman Leicester and the Jewry Wall

• Cardinal Thomas Wolsey

• Lady Jane Grey

• Bradgate Park

The Battle of Bosworth Field, fought near Market Bosworth on August 22, 1485, brought Richard III and Henry Tudor face to face in the final major battle of the Wars of the Roses.

Richard was defeated, Henry Tudor became Henry VII, and the Tudor dynasty began.

The Tudor Rose combined the red rose of Lancaster with the white rose of York, symbolizing reconciliation after years of civil conflict.

Richard III and Leicester Cathedral

King Richard III’s remains were discovered beneath a parking area in Leicester centuries after his death and were eventually reinterred at Leicester Cathedral.

Nigel explained that the cathedral itself had never particularly excited him, although he quickly clarified that his criticism concerned the quality of its pipe organ.

This clarification arrived just in time.

Romans, Wolsey and the Nine-Day Queen

The Jewry Wall is one of the largest surviving pieces of Roman masonry in Britain and formed part of Leicester’s ancient Roman bath complex.

As a schoolchild, Nigel was regularly taken to study the Roman ruins and artifacts. Like many children, he probably appreciated their historical importance considerably more after reaching adulthood.

The presentation also featured Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, Henry VIII’s powerful chief minister and Lord Chancellor, who died at Leicester Abbey in 1530.

Then came Lady Jane Grey, who is associated with Bradgate Park in Leicestershire.

Lady Jane became Queen of England for only nine days in July 1553 before being deposed by Mary Tudor. She was later imprisoned in the Tower of London and executed at approximately 16 years of age.

It was not, Nigel conceded, one of the happier royal stories.

Leicester’s Famous Contributions

The slides also highlighted several important Leicester connections.

The University of Leicester was the birthplace of DNA fingerprinting, discovered in 1984 by Professor Sir Alec Jeffreys.

Richard and David Attenborough spent important formative years in Leicester, while Monty Python actor and writer Graham Chapman was born in Leicester and grew up in Melton Mowbray.

Nigel suggested that Graham Chapman’s Leicestershire connection may help explain Nigel’s own sense of humor.

This remains scientifically unproven.

Pork Pies, Cheese and Branston Pickle

No presentation about Leicestershire would be complete without food.

Nigel introduced members to:

• Melton Mowbray pork pies

• Red Leicester cheese

• Stilton cheese

• Branston pickle  For additional info click here

• Piccalilli  For additional info click here

• The traditional ploughman’s lunch

A genuine Melton Mowbray pork pie is made with hand-raised hot-water crust pastry, uncured pork, seasoning, and pork jelly added after baking.

It is delicious, traditional, and almost certainly not recommended by Nigel’s cardiologist.

Stilton was explained as being similar to blue cheese, leading naturally to a discussion about mold, food production, and whether any of this material would appear on the final examination papers.

Is Nigel Really a Hobbit?

Nigel described himself as a Hobbit from the Shires.

This claim was immediately challenged.

Evidence against Nigel’s hobbit status included his height, the absence of visible hair on his feet, and the fact that traditional hobbits average considerably less than six feet tall.

Nigel defended himself by pointing out that J.R.R. Tolkien had connections to the Midlands and that Leicestershire certainly feels like part of the Shires.

The matter has been referred to the club’s Hobbit Verification Committee.

Nigel’s Rotary Minute

The final—and most personal—portion of the program was Nigel’s Rotary Minute.

Nigel shared that when he was 27 years old and living in England, he was diagnosed with cancer.

After surgery and radiation treatment, he felt profoundly grateful to be alive. The experience became a wake-up call. He began to feel that he had taken too much of his first 27 years for granted and that he needed to experience more of the world and do more for other people.

He began raising money for charity whilst working at the Leicestershire Area Health Authority and later had an opportunity to move to California, originally planning to remain for only two years.

He is apparently still waiting for those two years to end.

While working in Global Logistics (here in California) and selling space aboard ships and aircraft, Nigel met a customer who was a Rotarian, his name was Brian Wilson from the El Cerrito Club. After hearing Nigel’s story and learning about his charitable work, the customer introduced him to Rotary and joined the San Bruno Club.

Nigel immediately recognized that Rotary represented the kind of service and purpose he had been seeking.

It provided a way to turn gratitude into action.

Nigel hopes to include a Rotary Minute regularly and is inviting other members to share their own stories:

Who introduced you to Rotary?

Why did you join?

What made you stay?

What Rotary moment has meant the most to you?

Every Rotarian has a story, and those stories help remind us why we gather each Monday.

Nigel’s Losing His Marbles 

The meeting ended with the weekly drawings and Nigel’s Losing His Marbles Game.

The board drawing produced another happy winner.

In the marble drawing, the lucky ticket holder was offered a choice: attempt to draw the black marble or select an immediate prize from the goodie bin.

Chocolate defeated courage.

The black marble remains in play, and approximately 14 marbles are left. The odds continue to improve—although apparently not enough to compete with guaranteed chocolate.

Until Next Monday

The meeting closed with President Nigel’s continuing message:

Do good deeds.
Think good thoughts.
Be kind to yourself and to others.
And enjoy yourself along the way.

After a meeting filled with service, laughter, generosity, friendship, history, cheese, and one very welcome returning Rotarian, that seemed like exactly the right way to finish.

The President's Ponderings

A Smashing Meeting… with Toads, Butterflies, and a Brand-New Rotarian!

Good afternoon, my little lovelies!

If you missed Monday's meeting, you certainly missed one of the more entertaining afternoons we've had in quite some time. Somehow we managed to combine British cuisine, butterfly conservation, birthday celebrations, Rotary milestones, random trivia, and Sergeant-at-Arms justice into a single meeting. Only at Brentwood Rotary!

A Little English Education… (Proceed at Your Own Risk!) 

As promised, your weekly lesson in "English English" continued.

This week's menu included:

• Toad in the Hole (no amphibians were harmed!)

• Spotted Dick (which caused far more laughter in America than it ever would in England!)

• Black Pudding (yes... it's made with pig's blood)

• and the infamous Faggots—a perfectly innocent British meat dish that caused enough nervous laughter to keep Erin supplied with fine money for weeks.

Let's just say some words really don't travel well across the Atlantic!

I was also reminded that perhaps introducing British food before lunch wasn't my brightest idea...

Welcome to Rotary, Jeff!

One of the real highlights of the day was officially welcoming Jeff Conner as the newest member of the Rotary Club of Brentwood. 

Jeff comes to us after a distinguished career with AT&T and quickly impressed everyone with one of the most unusual hobbies we've ever heard...

Apparently, if you ever owned a PEZ dispenser, Jeff probably owns one too!

Even more impressive, Erin immediately discovered Jeff possesses an extraordinary collection of completely random facts—which earned him instant induction into "Erin's Random Fact Club."

We're delighted to have you with us, Jeff. Welcome to the family!

Red Badge... Blue Badge!

Congratulations also go to Cindy and Jim Astor, who proudly graduated from their red badges to blue badges.

Jim reminded us that although he'd been away for 13 years, returning to Brentwood Rotary felt like coming home.

That's exactly what Rotary should feel like.

Service Never Takes a Day Off 

Saturday demonstrated once again that our club doesn't believe in relaxing.

Members were spread across two community projects:

• Back-to-School shopping for 25 local students, Kohl's for Kids

• Home Team community service projects. Home Team

Apparently some Rotarians discovered hidden Olympic-level shopping abilities while others... well... let's just say they're better at fellowship than finding school supplies.

Either way, thank you to everyone who volunteered.

Here are some photos to enjoy!

Digs & Rigs Is Getting Bigger...

If you thought Digs & Rigs couldn't get any better...

Think again.

Aaron Summit has somehow managed to secure...

A HELICOPTER!

Along with more than thirty vendors and several surprises, they are still being kept under wraps.

Mark your calendars for October 17th. This year's event promises to be our biggest yet.

Erin Was... Erin

Our Sergeant-at-Arms wasted absolutely no time reminding everyone that nobody is safe.

Among this week's "offenses":

• Using questionable British vocabulary.

• Wearing suspiciously pale legs.

• Dropping a Past President badge.

• Owning too much random knowledge.

• Being new.

• Being old.

• Having birthdays.

• Simply existing.

Even I wasn't spared.

Somehow "Spotted Dick" and "Faggots" managed to generate more fine money than the entire World Cup.

Who knew?

Happy Rotary Anniversary!

Congratulations to Jay McLaughlin on celebrating 15 years with Brentwood Rotary.

Jay reminded us just how much our club has grown over the years and how proud he is to see what we've become.

Thank you, Jay, for your years of service and friendship.

Birthday Generosity

July birthdays included:

• Marsha Brown

• Jim Astor

• Past President Tim Dahl

• Past President Fran Bowman

Instead of simply accepting birthday wishes, our members continued one of the finest Brentwood traditions—giving back.

Together they donated hundreds of dollars to:

• Endowment

• PolioPlus

• The Rotary Foundation

• Rotacare

Now that's how Rotarians celebrate birthdays!

The Best News of the Day 

Perhaps the warmest moment came when Jane shared an update on her battle with pancreatic cancer.

Jane recently began participating in a promising clinical trial and, after only a short time, her tumor markers are already moving dramatically in the right direction.

The entire room erupted in applause.

Jane reminded us how much the cards, prayers, HOW dinners, phone calls and support from Brentwood Rotary have meant during this journey.

Her words touched every one of us:

"This club has been amazing. I love you guys."

Jane...

We love you too.

Please keep those prayers coming.

Butterflies, Milkweed and Hope

Our guest speaker, Rich Marlovich from the Winters Rotary Club, gave an inspiring presentation on saving the Western Monarch Butterfly.

Who knew that something as simple as planting milkweed could help bring back an endangered species?

Rich explained that Monarch populations have begun recovering where new habitat is being created—and Brentwood sits right in their migration corridor.

Perhaps many of us will soon have our own butterfly waystations at home.

After all...

If you build it, they will come.

















 

Rotarian of the Year

Although we were running out of time, Past President Tim Dahl made sure one important presentation wasn't missed.

Congratulations once again to Jane, officially recognized as our Rotarian of the Year.

A thoroughly deserved honor.








 

Foundation Election

Thank you to everyone who participated in voting for our Brentwood Rotary Foundation Board.

Congratulations to our newly elected Foundation Director:

• Nick J. Canata

Thank you to everyone willing to serve our club.

Final Thoughts

Monday reminded me exactly why I enjoy being part of this remarkable club.

Yes—we raised money.

Yes—we inducted new members.

Yes—we learned about Monarch butterflies.

But most importantly...

We laughed.

We celebrated.

We supported one another.

And we were reminded that Rotary isn't just about service.

It's about friendship.

Thank you all for making Brentwood Rotary such a wonderful place to belong.

Until next Monday...

Think good thoughts. Do good deeds. Be kind to others—and to yourself. Together, let's continue building a better world and be the shining example.

— Nigel
President, Rotary Club of Brentwood

A Bloody Marvelous Club Assembly

Our latest Rotary meeting began with President Nigel greeting everyone as his “little lovelies,” which immediately confirmed that this would not be an entirely conventional Club Assembly.

The Pledge of Allegiance and Four-Way Test were successfully completed—although, judging by the transcript, both may have briefly passed through an experimental translation system before reaching the audience.

Several guests and family members were welcomed, including Jessica Busman’s daughter, Charlotte, who will soon begin her senior year of high school. We were also pleased to welcome several younger guests enjoying—or possibly mourning—their final days of summer vacation.

The Queen’s English, According to Nigel

President Nigel continued his ongoing effort to improve the club’s understanding of the English language—or at least the version spoken on the other side of the Atlantic.

This week’s educational expressions included:

Cock-up: A mistake or blunder. Entirely innocent in Britain, although it may cause Americans to sit up and pay closer attention.

Knackered: Completely exhausted. Nigel explained that the term may come from the “knacker’s yard,” where old working horses were once sent at the end of their useful lives. This explanation left several members wondering whether Rotary service might eventually qualify them for admission.

Bevvie: An alcoholic beverage, as in, “Are you going to buy me a bevvie?” Nigel does not drink, but apparently feels strongly that the rest of us should understand the terminology.

Don’t get your knickers in a twist: Do not become overly upset or agitated. This phrase may prove particularly useful during future Board meetings.

Nigel acknowledged that there are many additional British expressions he has not yet dared to share. The club waits with a mixture of anticipation and concern.

A Well-Deserved Thank-You to Tim

President Nigel took a sincere moment to thank Immediate Past President Tim Dahl for his leadership, friendship, and support during the transition.

Nigel noted that Tim had placed the club in excellent condition and had made the transition into the presidency considerably easier. Tim was then formally welcomed into the distinguished—and occasionally mischievous—ranks of the Past Presidents.

There was also some ceremonial handling of presidential items, which appeared to involve pins, badges, chains, gravity, and at least one object falling off. Fortunately, presidential authority was eventually restored.

Tim shares updates about several members.

Past President Bruce is home and improving. He remains somewhat weak but has a new walker designed specifically for individuals with Parkinson’s disease and hopes to return for a club visit soon.

Shelley was also reported to be looking well, although conversation remains challenging.

Most encouragingly, Kevin Allen continues to improve. His wife, Leslie, reported that he was being transferred to a skilled nursing facility in the Bay Area. The club was asked to continue keeping Kevin and his family in our thoughts and prayers.

The Sergeant-at-Arms Takes Control

Sergeant-at-Arms Erin then demonstrated that no member, regardless of rank, excuse, occupation, or mastery of British slang, is beyond the reach of Rotary justice.

Late arrivals were quickly identified.

When Dana was asked what time he had arrived, his response was essentially, “I walk in whenever I want.”

This bold legal defense did not succeed.

Fines were issued for arriving late, failing to stand, missing pins, forgetting meetings, forgetting emails, incorrectly answering Four-Way Test questions, and possibly simply being within Erin’s field of vision.

President Nigel was also fined after admitting that he had forgotten the ballot papers for a scheduled vote. The vote was postponed, but the fine was immediate. Apparently, parliamentary procedure may be delayed, but Rotary justice never is.

Celebrating Rotary Anniversaries

The club celebrated several membership anniversaries.

Olga marked 17 years with the club and was recognized as the club’s longest-serving active female Rotarian. Olga generously donated $100 to support local community efforts.

She also reflected on the growth in female membership. When she served as president, women made up approximately 29 percent of the club. Today, that figure is closer to 39 percent. Progress may be gradual, she noted, but it is moving in the right direction.

Olga also highlighted two accomplishments that had long been on her Rotary wish list.

The first was having a live band at the club’s 5K event—something Kevin Allen helped make happen.

The second was ensuring scholarship support reached students who not only earned assistance but genuinely needed it. Kevin also helped advance that objective through support for students at La Paloma High School.

Other anniversary donations were made by Peggy, Bob, and Eric, each demonstrating that Rotary anniversaries can be both meaningful and financially hazardous.

Jessica confessed to taking a family vacation to Hawaii and donated $100, possibly out of gratitude, guilt, or fear of further questioning.

Dave Roche had his grandchild’s first birthday, so it resulted in a generous Rotary Foundation contribution.  Thanks Dave!

Soccer, Football and Financial Penalties 

Erin next tested the club’s knowledge of the World Cup.

Members could win a square on the fundraising board for a correct answer—or receive a $5 fine for an incorrect one. This structure strongly favored the Sergeant-at-Arms.

Questions covered hat tricks, teams that failed to score, prize money, and new rules governing player conduct.

When one member (Steve Gursky) suggested that the club stop talking about soccer and begin preparing for “real football,” Erin immediately fined him another $5.

The comment may not have built goodwill and better friendships, but it certainly helped the club’s finances.

Camp Royal: Leadership, Friendship and 1,125 Meals

Jessica and Charlotte then shared a presentation about Camp Royal.

Camp Royal is a Rotary youth leadership program for high school juniors preparing to enter their senior year. This year, 63 students attended the program in the Mount Lassen area, supported by counselors, committee members, and the Odyssey leadership team.

Jessica serves on the District Camp Royal Committee and has participated for four years. She also handles transportation and, somewhat unexpectedly, became responsible for the kitchen.

Although she claims not to be a chef, Jessica planned, purchased, and coordinated approximately 1,125 meals during the week.

The students said the food was delicious. Jessica suggested they make sure her family heard that endorsement, since such praise is apparently less common at home.

Charlotte described Camp Royal as one of the most positive experiences of her life.

Each morning began with activities such as hiking, running, walking, or mindful movement. The days included speakers, workshops, team activities, skits, talent shows, campfires, and plenty of opportunities for students to connect.

One of the most powerful exercises involved climbing “The Wall.” Before attempting it, each student identified a personal obstacle or barrier. Fellow participants then helped the student climb over the wall, transforming an emotional challenge into a physical act of trust, courage, and teamwork.

Charlotte especially appreciated spending time with students her own age without phones constantly getting in the way. Instead of staring at screens, the students played cards, talked, laughed, and formed genuine friendships.

A group chat remains active, proving that phones are apparently much more meaningful after being taken away for a week.

The Club Is in Good Shape

President Nigel opened the formal Club Assembly by explaining that the club is in strong condition thanks to the leadership of previous presidents, boards, and committee chairs.

The club already conducts many successful service and fundraising activities. The goal is not simply to add more events and exhaust everyone. Instead, the focus will be on better planning, coordination, communication, participation, and fellowship.

In other words, the objective is to do good work without leaving every volunteer completely knackered.

Financial Update and Automatic Payments

Fran reported that the club remains financially strong and on solid ground.

Members were also reminded that recurring payments can now be established through DACdb. This will allow dues and other regular obligations to be paid automatically.

Step-by-step instructions will be included in a future newsletter.

This may also reduce the number of times the Sergeant-at-Arms needs to remind members that a public pledge is not merely an entertaining meeting announcement.

Grants and International Service

Jessica provided updates on several grant initiatives.

The club is awaiting the outcome of a District Grant application to support the Excelsior Middle School music program. If approved, grant funds and club matching funds will be used to purchase instruments that can be loaned to students year after year.

Excelsior’s music program has fewer resources than some other local school programs, and the project is intended to give more students the opportunity to participate.

The school may also perform a concert for the club as a way to say "Thank you"!

The club has also agreed to support the Rotary Club of Antioch’s Floating Clinic project serving the Ssese Islands of Uganda. Approximately 100,000 people live throughout the island region, while only a small number of islands have permanent health facilities.

The floating clinic will travel between islands, bringing medical care directly to communities that otherwise have limited access.

Membership: Welcoming, Supporting and Engaging

Membership Chair Marsha recognized the members of her committee and outlined priorities for the year.

The club currently has approximately 75 active members, along with honorary members and members on leave.

The Membership Committee plans to develop a year-long onboarding process for new members and is creating what Marsha described as a “Membership Think Tank.” The committee will examine the club’s strengths, challenges, and possible alternative membership structures.

The goal is not only to recruit new members but also to retain and engage existing ones while maintaining a welcoming and safe environment.

Marsha invited members to join the committee or share ideas, concerns, and suggestions.

Pets Against Polio

Link to video

Christine, Ron, and Past President Mike provided an update on Rotary’s continuing campaign to eradicate polio.

Members were reminded that PolioPlus Society participants commit at least $100 annually. These contributions count toward Paul Harris recognition and are matched two-to-one by the Gates Foundation.

Then came the meeting’s most unexpected membership opportunity: the PolioPlus Kennel Club.

Dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, chinchillas, and possibly any creature willing to tolerate a Rotary bandana can become part of the campaign.

Pets receive a bandana and pin, while their owners receive credit toward Paul Harris recognition. Photographs can also be submitted for a Rotary pet contest.

Several members appeared ready to enroll their pets immediately.

One member mentioned barn swallows nesting over a security camera. Another reported a family of ground squirrels being fed by his wife. At this rate, the Brentwood Rotary Club may soon have more animal members than human ones.

The important message, however, remained clear: Rotary has helped reduce polio to only a small number of cases in two remaining endemic countries, but the work is not finished. Continued vaccination and financial support remain essential.

Website for the Kennel Klub click this link

           Community Service Without Burnout 

Community Service leaders presented a memorable image of a three-legged stool.

The stool represents Rotary, the cushion on top represents engagement, and the three legs represent community service, fundraising, and committees.

The objective is to ensure members have different ways to participate. Not everyone can attend every hands-on service project, but members may contribute through fundraising, planning, committee work, donations, or leadership.

The committee is also working to improve inventory management so the club does not repeatedly purchase supplies it already owns.

Upcoming projects include Kohl’s for Kids and Home Team. Members were encouraged to volunteer through SignUpGenius.

A major priority will be protecting members from burnout, particularly during busy periods when service projects and fundraising events occur in rapid succession.

What Exactly Is “The District?”

Assistant Governor Peggy explained Rotary District 5160 for the benefit of newer members.

The District includes approximately 65 clubs stretching from the Oregon border to the San Jose area.

Peggy serves as Assistant Governor for the five Delta Force clubs: Pittsburg, Oakley, Delta–Antioch, Antioch, and Brentwood.

Her role is to support club presidents, encourage cooperation between clubs, help solve problems, and connect local clubs with the District Governor and District resources.

Peggy compared the presidents she supports to “little peeps, chickens, ground squirrels and owls,” which was perhaps the natural result of giving her the microphone immediately after the Pets Against Polio presentation.

Fellowship First

President Nigel explained that one of his goals for the year is to strengthen fellowship.

Members should not be surprised if every meeting does not include a formal speaker. An occasional open meeting will allow members to sit together, talk, and get to know one another better.

Nigel believes stronger friendships will create a stronger club.

He also expressed hope that the absence of a speaker will not result in a food fight.

This hope may be optimistic.

A New Twist on Nigel’s Marbles

The meeting concluded with “Nigel’s Marbles,” featuring a new choice for the raffle winner.

The winner may either attempt to draw the black marble from the bag or select a treat from Nigel’s goodie box.

Possible treats include chocolate, wine, or other surprises. Choosing a goodie means forfeiting the chance to draw the black marble.

Laura selected the goodie box and chose dark chocolate, proving that some people understand probability better than others.

Nigel also observed that the swear jar was looking “a bit anemic” and promised to use the word “bloody” more often to improve its financial condition.

With business concluded, members were sent into the week with Nigel’s familiar reminder:

Think good thoughts, do good deeds, be kind to others and yourself, and help build a better world.

It was informative, productive, occasionally chaotic, and—by unanimous British decree—bloody marvelous.

Brentwood Rotary Club’s Social Media Award Recognition

Rotary District 5160 recently honored the Rotary Club of Brentwood with a Social Media Award in the 2026 NSPRA Publications and Digital Media Excellence Awards National School Public Relations Association. This recognition is part of the National School Public Relations Association’s annual program, which celebrates outstanding work in school communication, including social media content.

About the Award

The Publications and Digital Media Excellence Awards recognize high-quality tactical materials such as newsletters, websites, podcasts, videos, and social media content. Entries are judged within categories based on organization type and size, with evaluation focusing on overall excellence and quality compared to other entries

Our District is excited to announce that we have finalized two different Wheelchair Distribution trips for our members to participate in:
 
 (1) Panama, from August 11 through August 16; and
 (2) Costa Rica, from September 14 through September 19.  
 
Since the Panama trip is less than one month away and the Costa Rica trip is less than two months away, we hope everyone will give these trips immediate consideration. Please ask all your club members to consider joining us on these incredible service projects and help change lives.  Both trips have been organized by Past Rotary International Director Brad Howard, of Howard Tours.  
 
Both trips will include superb fellowship opportunities, a wheelchair distribution, additional service projects with local Rotary Clubs, local sight-seeing, incredible meals and high-quality lodging.  
 
The events are being coordinated with District 5160, the Wheelchair Foundation, and Howard Tours.  The price for this Panama trip is $1,385 per person, double occupancy (add $390 for a single room), exclusive of airfare and other incidentals. The price for the Costa Rica trip is $1,599, double occupancy (add $430 for a single room).  
 
For further information, please contact PDG Dan Geraldi (daniel@geraldi-law.com) or Howard Tours (info@howardtours.net, 510-834-2260). 
 

Yours in service,

Woody Fridae
District Governor

Camp Royal 2026 – Investing in Tomorrow's Leaders

One of Rotary's signature youth leadership programs is Camp Royal, an annual leadership conference sponsored by Rotary District 5160 for outstanding high school students preparing to enter their senior year. Since 1979, Camp Royal has provided young people with opportunities to develop leadership skills through workshops, team-building activities, communication exercises, and service-oriented learning.

This year's program featured keynote speaker Jessica Busman, who challenged students to think differently about leadership. Her message focused on leading with authenticity, integrity, empathy, and courage, encouraging participants to understand their own values before leading others.

The District 5160 Camp Royal program is designed to help students strengthen their leadership abilities while building relationships with fellow students from throughout Northern California. Rotary clubs sponsor students to attend because they recognize that investing in young leaders helps strengthen our communities for years to come.

The District website also features a reflection from a 2026 Camp Royal participant named Kaydence, who wrote that Camp Royal helped her discover the importance of empathy, courage, and integrity. She shared that the experience taught her "that being a leader is not about shouting the loudest, but about being real," and that it encouraged her to become a better listener and to face challenges with greater purpose. These reflections illustrate the type of personal growth Camp Royal seeks to inspire in every participant.

The Rotary Club of Brentwood is proud to support Youth Services programs such as Camp Royal. By investing in today's young people, we are helping develop the ethical, compassionate, and service-minded leaders of tomorrow.

A New Rotary Year Begins

Welcome to the first Friday Check-In of the 2026–2027 Rotary year!

President Nigel Jesson officially opened his first meeting this week, setting the tone for what promises to be another exciting year for the Rotary Club of Brentwood. With new opportunities to serve, strengthen friendships, and make a positive impact throughout our community, the year is already off to a wonderful start.

Nigel began the meeting with a lighthearted lesson on the British expression "Hobson's Choice," reminding us that sometimes the choices before us aren't as complicated as they first appear. Fortunately, when it comes to Rotary, the choice is easy. Every week we choose to serve, to give back, and to make our community a better place.

Welcome to a new Rotary year—we're looking forward to the journey ahead!

BTW, the expression comes from  the late 16th and early 17th centuries when Thomas Hobson worked as a licensed carrier of passengers, letters, and parcels between Cambridge and London, England. He kept horses for this purpose and rented them to university students when he wasn't using them. Of course, the students always wanted their favorite mounts, and consequently, a few of Hobson's horses became overworked. To correct the situation, Hobson began a strict rotation system, giving each customer the choice of taking the horse nearest the stable door or none at all. This rule became known as Hobson's choice, and soon people were using that term to mean "no choice at all" in all kinds of situations.
 

One of the best ways to begin a Rotary year is by rolling up our sleeves and getting involved.

Members were reminded of two outstanding opportunities coming up on Saturday, July 25:
 

Kohl's for kids


 

Home Team

Forget the Wild West—for one week only, Sergeant-at-Arms Erin Summit traded in her sheriff's badge for a referee's whistle and brought a little World Cup excitement to Brentwood Rotary! ?????

Erin wasted no time making her presence known, handing out Yellow Cards with confidence—including the first official fine of the new Rotary year to Past President Steve Gursky... just because! Clearly, Erin isn't afraid to make an early statement! ??

Not even President Nigel escaped unscathed. In one of the morning's funniest moments, Erin issued the President a RED CARD, proving that no one—not even the club president—is above the rules!

The fun continued with plenty of member confessions, enthusiastic purchases of Squares on the Board, and the debut of brand-new Fine-Free Badges, which raised an impressive $250 for the club.



Just when Erin thought she had everything under control, President Nigel introduced a surprise addition to the festivities—a Rotary Club of Brentwood Swear Jar! Let's just say a few dollars quickly found their way into the jar, proving that old habits can be hard to break! ??

It was a hilarious, high-energy Sergeant-at-Arms segment and a terrific way to kick off a brand-new Rotary year. If this opening performance is any indication, we're in for plenty of laughs in the months ahead!

 

Bringing Hope to Families Facing Childhood Cancer

Few challenges are more overwhelming than hearing the words, "Your child has cancer." In an instant, families find themselves navigating hospital stays, treatments, emotional uncertainty, and countless unexpected challenges.

This week's featured speakers, Denise Rundall and her daughter Deanna, shared how Dillon's Dream was created to walk alongside those families, offering hope, encouragement, and practical support during one of the most difficult seasons of their lives.

Dillon's Dream is dedicated to supporting children battling cancer and their families through compassion, community, advocacy, and hope. While medical professionals focus on treatment, the organization works to provide many of the comforts and experiences that help families simply feel supported.

Among their many programs are:

Hospital care bags for children and parents
Craft activities for children undergoing treatment
Holiday toy drives ensuring every patient and sibling receives gifts
Family experiences at SpiritHorse Ranch
Special outings to places like the Sacramento Zoo and Urban Air Adventure Park
The annual Stroll for Gold fundraiser

The organization currently supports pediatric patients receiving treatment at hospitals including John Muir Walnut Creek, Kaiser Oakland, Kaiser Santa Clara, Kaiser Roseville, and Sutter Sacramento, with plans to expand even further.

Denise also shared sobering facts about childhood cancer.

Although childhood cancer remains the leading disease-related cause of death among children in the United States, pediatric cancers receive only a small fraction of overall cancer research funding. Even when treatment is successful, many young survivors experience lifelong health challenges resulting from their therapies.

Beyond the medical challenges are the emotional and financial burdens carried by entire families. Parents often leave work to care for their child, siblings struggle with the emotional impact, and expenses for travel, lodging, meals, and medical care quickly add up.

Denise reminded us that organizations like Dillon's Dream exist because families should never have to face these challenges alone.

She concluded by encouraging everyone to get involved—whether by volunteering, donating, supporting community fundraisers, or simply wearing gold during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month each September.

Thank you, Denise, for sharing Dillon's Dream's inspiring mission and for reminding us how compassion and community can make an immeasurable difference in the lives of children and families facing childhood cancer.

Dillions Dream will be our non-profit of the year!  Congratulations!

After weeks of anticipation, the moment everyone had been waiting for finally arrived!

This week's 50/50 Raffle winner, Christine Canales, stepped forward with the chance to draw the elusive black marble. With the room watching in anticipation, Christine reached into the bag and... success! ?? She pulled the winning marble and claimed the $73 jackpot!

But the story didn't end there.

In true Service Above Self fashion, Christine immediately donated her entire winnings to the Pennies for Polio bottle that was making its way around the room. ??

Inspired by Christine's generosity, Past President Mike Crosby raised the stakes even higher by announcing that he would match every dollar collected in the Pennies for Polio bottle.

What began as a lucky draw quickly became another reminder of what makes Brentwood Rotary so special. A little fun around the raffle table turned into meaningful support for Rotary's global effort to eradicate polio once and for all.

A heartfelt thank you to Christine and Mike for demonstrating that sometimes the biggest winners are the children around the world who will grow up in a world free from polio.

Now that's a winning combination! ???????
 

ShelterBox is working with trusted partners in Venezuela to assess the situation and better understand the shelter needs of affected communities.

Over recent months, we have strengthened partnerships and preparedness efforts across the region, putting us in a strong position should a ShelterBox response be required. We also have emergency shelter and essential aid pre-positioned in Barbados and Panama, enabling us to move quickly if support is needed.

As assessments continue, our team is drawing on experience from previous earthquake responses—including those in Turkey and Syria, Morocco, and the Philippines—to inform response planning. Those responses have included emergency shelter, shelter kits, solar lights, blankets, and other essential household items to help families stay safe and begin recovering after disaster.

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My dear friends,

As members of Rotary, we are all united across cultures, languages, and communities. Together, we share a responsibility not only to bring about change but also to ensure that the effects endure. That is why this year, we are called to Create Lasting Impact. When we work alongside communities, invest in people’s skills and leadership abilities, and measure our progress, we ensure that positive changes can continue in our communities and in ourselves long after a single project ends. When we focus our efforts and work together, we can maximize our impact in the year ahead.

A New Rotary Year Begins – Let's Make It One to Remember

Dear Brentwood Rotarians,

I hope everyone enjoyed a wonderful Fourth of July weekend with family and friends.

It is both an honour and a privilege to write to you for the first time as President of the Rotary Club of Brentwood.

Over the past few weeks, I've had the opportunity to attend the Rotary International Convention in Taipei, Taiwan. It was an unforgettable experience. I met Rotarians from around the world, attended inspiring presentations, and came home with plenty of new ideas.

I also came home with a few stories!

Like navigating Taipei's incredible subway system while trying to decipher station names in Mandarin... discovering that an umbrella is apparently essential travel equipment... and learning that when 15,000 Rotarians all decide to go to lunch at the same time, patience quickly becomes a Rotary virtue!

One thing became very clear during the convention: no matter where we come from, Rotarians share the same passion—to make our communities and our world a little better than we found them.

That message fits perfectly with what many of you shared during our Brentwood Rotary Vision Retreat.

Together, we identified some common themes:

• Building stronger friendships and member engagement.
• Creating meaningful service opportunities for all ages.
• Growing our membership by sharing the Rotary experience we love.
• Supporting our youth and local community.
• Having fun while making a difference.

Those weren't my ideas—they were yours. My goal this year is to help turn those ideas into action.

One thing you'll hear me say often is that Brentwood Rotary already has everything it needs to be an outstanding club. We have talented members, generous hearts, tremendous experience, and a remarkable history of service. My role is simply to help bring out the very best in all of us.

I also hope we'll continue to laugh together. Rotary should be rewarding, but it should also be enjoyable. Friendships are what keep us coming back week after week.

As we begin this new Rotary year, I invite every member—whether you've been with the club for thirty years or thirty days—to become involved. Attend a project. Invite a guest. Join a committee. Share an idea. Ask a question. Volunteer for something new.

Every member matters.

Thank you for the confidence you've placed in me. I look forward to serving alongside each of you, and I genuinely believe our best days are still ahead.

Let's make this a year filled with friendship, service, laughter, and impact.

See you on Monday July 13th which will be our first meeting of this Rotary Year!

Yours in Rotary,

Nigel Jesson
President 2026–2027
Rotary Club of Brentwood

The club’s HOST program assisted the mother & son, Bonnie & Ronnie to settle into their new home.  Club members Helen Howlett, JoAnn Klement, Fran Bowman, Bruce Beadle, Jessica Busman (& her 2 wonderful daughters, Grace & Charlotte) and Glenn Huxtable met at their home in Summerset 4 where they’d been living for about 4 months.  Despite living there for that long, they had not been able to unpack and enjoy their home because Bonnie had both hips replaced and Ronnie is non-verbal.  Bonnie spends most of her time & energy focused on Ronnie. 

We spent about 3 ? very productive hours assisting in every area of the home & garage.  We accomplished all of the following, and more: 

• Moved the China cabinet into position, plugged it in and assembled it. 
• Unpacked dozens of boxes of belongings and placed them where Bonnie requested in the kitchen, bookcases, China cabinet, etc.
• Both shower heads were properly installed
• Plugged in power units for both beds so they can electronically adjust the settings for better comfort & sleep
• We moved a number of furniture items into their new locations, including an entry table, bookcase, headboard, dressers, nightstands etc. 
• We hung 10 pieces of artwork, 7 decorative plates & 1 mirror
• Reconnected a kitchen cabinet door
• Connected the dryer vent to the dryer & slid dryer into place so they can shut their laundry room door.
• Broke down dozens of boxes and moved them & a barrel of leaves to the back yard for composting
• Organized her garage, including boxing up her Christmas tree and putting holiday decorations up on shelves

While helping we enjoyed fellowship and a delicious meal of pizza, sodas & water with Ronnie & Bonnie.  Ronnie enjoyed the company and showed his appreciation with many hugs and by directing each of us to various points & projects in the home. 

Bonnie wanted to share the following message with the club, “I cannot thank all of you enough for helping to make this house a home for Ronnie and me.  I am overwhelmed with your kindness.  God Bless all of you.”

Thanks to all of the volunteers for making a major difference in their lives.  Bonnie originally became aware of the Brentwood Rotary Club through our HOME Team program which helped her with some projects in November.  A big thanks go to JoAnn & PP Dana who met her on that HOME Team visit & saw that she’d benefit from more time and volunteers.  That’s just what the HOST program is designed to do, Helping One Senior at a Time. 

Today, as we honor Martin Luther King Jr., we are reminded that the Civil Rights Movement was not only a struggle for equal laws, but a call for moral courage, service, and collective responsibility. Dr. King challenged individuals and institutions alike to move beyond words and into action—an idea that resonates deeply with Rotary’s mission.

Dr. King believed that “everybody can be great, because everybody can serve.” That belief sits at the very heart of Rotary’s guiding principle: Service Above Self. Whether advocating for civil rights, expanding educational opportunity, addressing hunger, or building peace, the work of Rotary echoes the same conviction that motivated the movement for justice—that lasting change is created when ordinary people commit themselves to the common good.

The Civil Rights Movement succeeded not because of one voice alone, but because communities organized, collaborated, and refused to accept injustice as inevitable. In much the same way, Rotary brings together people of diverse backgrounds, professions, and perspectives to identify needs and take meaningful action—locally and globally. From promoting peace and understanding, to supporting education and economic development, Rotary’s Areas of Focus align closely with Dr. King’s vision of a more just, compassionate world.

Dr. King also warned against complacency, reminding us that “the time is always right to do what is right.” As Rotarians, this challenges us to continually ask how we can use our time, talents, and resources to lift others, confront inequity, and strengthen our communities. Service is not passive; it requires intention, empathy, and perseverance.

On this Martin Luther King Jr. Day, may we reflect not only on the progress that has been made, but on the work that still lies ahead. Let us recommit ourselves to Rotary’s mission and to the enduring belief that through service, partnership, and moral leadership, we can help bend the arc toward justice—right here in Brentwood and far beyond.

 

Learning from History: Investing in the Next Generation

Rotary’s commitment to service and education is also reflected in its long-standing support of youth leadership and civic learning initiatives. Across the country, students participating in programs such as the “Road to Selma” civil-rights learning experience benefit from funding and encouragement commonly provided by local Rotary clubs through District Grants and club-level contributions. These opportunities allow students to travel to historic Civil Rights landmarks in places like Montgomery, Birmingham, and Selma, including the iconic Edmund Pettus Bridge.

These short-term, high-impact educational projects bring history to life, giving young people a deeper understanding of the sacrifices, leadership, and moral courage that shaped the Civil Rights Movement. More importantly, they foster critical thinking, empathy, and civic responsibility—values that closely align with Rotary’s mission to promote peace, community engagement, and lifelong learning. By investing in experiences that connect students directly to America’s history, Rotary helps ensure that Dr. King’s legacy is not only remembered, but carried forward by future generations.

A recent visit to Año Nuevo State Park offered far more than a scenic coastal walk. It became an unexpected lesson in stewardship, patience, and respect for the natural world.

From the moment you arrive, Año Nuevo makes one thing clear: this is a place that asks visitors to slow down. The trails are carefully laid out, the boardwalks deliberately positioned—not for convenience, but for protection. You are guided gently through the landscape, reminded that here, humans are guests.

As we walked closer to the shoreline, the reason for this care became unmistakable. Dozens of elephant seals rested on the sand, entirely at ease in their environment. There were no fences separating us—only distance, education, and trust that people would do the right thing.

What struck me most was the quiet cooperation between people and nature. Rangers and volunteers patiently answered questions. Educational displays explained not only what we were seeing, but why it matters. Even the skeletal exhibits—powerful reminders of size, strength, and vulnerability—told a story of life cycles that continue only if we allow them to.

(Photo: Educational skull display at the visitor area)

Standing on the beach later, watching the sun drop toward the horizon, footprints scattered across the sand, I couldn’t help but reflect on how temporary our presence really is. The ocean keeps moving. The seals will return year after year. The land remembers how it is treated.

(Photo: Beach and sunset image)

Video at the Beach near Ano Nvevo

 

Places like Año Nuevo don’t remain this way by chance. They exist because generations before us made thoughtful choices—choosing preservation over convenience, education over access, and long-term responsibility over short-term gain.

As Rotarians, we often speak about Service Above Self and about leaving something better than we found it. Environmental stewardship fits naturally within those values. Caring for our planet isn’t separate from caring for people—it is inseparable from it.

This visit reminded me that meaningful change doesn’t always begin with a project or a program. Sometimes it begins with awareness. With respect. And with asking ourselves what kind of legacy we want to leave behind.

 

In 2020, Rotary International formally recognized Supporting the Environment as one of Rotary’s Areas of Focus. This reflects something many of us already understand: protecting our planet is essential to improving health, supporting communities, and creating sustainable futures.

As Rotarians, we are uniquely positioned to turn awareness into impact. In the months ahead, I invite our club to begin exploring how we can align locally with this global priority—whether through education, partnerships, youth engagement, or hands-on service right here in our region.

This might include inviting an environmental speaker, supporting a local conservation effort, engaging our Interact clubs, or identifying a service project that reflects Rotary’s commitment to stewardship and sustainability.

If you have ideas, interests, or experiences you’d like to share, I encourage you to help start the conversation. Stewardship begins with awareness—but it is sustained through collective action.

Together, we can help ensure that places like Año Nuevo State Park remain not just protected, but respected, for generations to come.

Pumpkins & Pancakes Was a Hit!

Adams Middle School’s annual Pumpkins & Pancakes event was a fantastic success this year! Families, students, and community members came together for a warm, festive morning filled with good food, great company, and wonderful music.

A huge thank-you to Mr. Fallon and our talented band students, who delivered an outstanding performance that energized the entire event. Their music set the perfect tone and showcased the hard work and dedication they put into their craft.

We also extend our appreciation to the volunteers and supporters who helped make the fundraiser possible. From serving pancakes to organizing activities, your efforts created a memorable experience for our school community.

Thank you to everyone who came out to support Adams Middle School. Your participation helps strengthen our programs and makes events like this truly special. We can’t wait to see you again next year!




 

The National Institute of Health (NIH) in Islamabad, home to the Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio Eradication, has confirmed two new cases of poliovirus in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. One case was reported from the Tank district, and the other from North Waziristan.

The affected individuals are a 16-month-old girl from the Union Council of Mullazai in Tank and a 24-month-old girl from the Union Council of Miran Shah-3 in North Waziristan. These latest cases bring Pakistan’s total number of polio cases in 2025 to 23, with 15 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, six in Sindh, and one each in Punjab and Gilgit-Baltistan.

Polio is a highly contagious and incurable disease that can cause permanent paralysis. The only effective protection against it is the Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV), which should be given repeatedly to all children under five during each vaccination campaign, in addition to routine immunisations.

Despite significant progress in the fight against polio, the detection of new cases, particularly in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, remains a major concern. This highlights that children in hard-to-reach areas, or those with low vaccine coverage, remain at risk.

In response, the National and Provincial Emergency Operations Centres (EOCs) are working tirelessly to ensure the success of upcoming high-quality vaccination campaigns. To curb the spread of the virus, the National EOC for Polio Eradication has put together an extensive vaccination schedule for the low transmission season.

The first campaign of the season is scheduled to run from September 1 to 7, 2025, and in southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a targeted campaign will begin on September 15. More than 28 million children under the age of five are expected to receive polio drops through a door-to-door vaccination effort.

The primary goal of these campaigns is to vaccinate every child in the affected districts to strengthen immunity and close existing protection gaps. Parents and caregivers are urged to ensure their children receive the polio vaccine during this and every future campaign.

Polio eradication is a collective responsibility. While healthcare workers on the frontlines continue to administer vital vaccines, parents and caregivers also play an essential role by ensuring their children complete all vaccine doses, including routine immunisations.

Communities can further protect their children by supporting vaccination efforts, combating misinformation, and encouraging others to vaccinate.



taken from Social Media News Source  www.thenews.com.pk

The Rotary Home Team (RHT) of the Brentwood Rotary Club helped 9 local seniors with about 20 projects.  9 Rotarians gathered on the morning of July 27^th, split into 3 teams and completed a variety of tasks that were very appreciated by the people we assisted. 

We replaced quite a few smoke detector batteries, light bulbs & HVAC filters (the most common requests we get, as it helps keep seniors off ladders).  We also programmed a thermostat, hung shelving in a garage, lubed a rollup garage door, assembled some chairs, adjusted a side garage door to shut properly, re-installed a window balancer, trimmed rose bushes & citrus trees, moved a heavy table, etc.

All of this was completed by our wonderful RHT volunteers in just under 2 hours.  If you’ve never participated in a RHT event, I’d encourage you to do so.  Sometimes what we do feels like such a small thing to me.  However, it’s always sincerely appreciated by those we help and it is very rewarding to see just how much so, when we meet them.  Mark your calendars, the next service date is Saturday, September 28^th! 

Thanks to all the Rotarians who joined me to improve these seniors lives.:  Bob Gibbs, Helen Howlett, JoAnn Klement, Tim Dahl, Peggy Ann Valley, Dana Eaton, Eric Soiland, and Bruce Beadle.  

If you know of anyone the Brentwood Rotary Home Team can assist with simple tasks we can do more safely than they can do for themselves, please have them call 888-204-5573 and leave a message.  Do you have questions about RHT?  Call me, Glenn, at 925-437-5247.

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