Enthusiastic local Rotary members joined the Bronxville team on the October 6th Westchester Walk to End Alzheimer's. Over $750K was raised, with donations still welcome, towards the $1 million dollar goal.
In recognition of World Polio Day, the Rotary Club of Bronxville, in collaboration with the Scarsdale and Larchmont, and Bronxville Women's Club, has invited Mike McGovern, Chair of Rotary International Polio Plus Committee, to speak at the Bronxville Library Yeager auditorium the evening of November 7th, from 7 pm - 8:30 pm.
As the largest volunteer service organization in the world, Rotary International embarked on a mission to rid the world of polio, an infectious disease that at its peak killed or paralyzed hundreds of thousands of people every year. In 2022 Rotary International contributed $86 million to close critical protection gaps. Mike has been involved in the international effort to eradicate polio 40 years ago. He will talk about what is going on in Pakistan, Afghanistan, and the issues involving oral vaccine and injection immunization efforts. DRFC (7230) Eric Storberg will be the guest Emcee for this event. All are welcome.
This year Bronxville Rotary had a table at the fall sidewalk sale on Friday, September 27th to share news about its latest programs and encourage people to join. For more than 115 years, Rotary's "people of action" have used their passion, energy, and intelligence to execute sustainable projects. From literacy and peace to water and health, we are always working to better our world.
Ruth Walter, Susan Johnson, and Valon Nikci
On September 25 th Doris Benson and other Bronxville Rotary members presented President & CEO of Westhab Rich Nightengale a check for $30,000. This represented the balance of a grant secured by Bronxville Rotary and its other partners – Rotary Districts in New York and Taiwan, The Rotary Foundation and the Reformed Church of Bronxville. The grant was for continuing childhood literacy work and to support the library within the community center at Dayspring. Westhab is a housing-first, comprehensive community development approach to end homelessness and build just and vibrant communities.
At the Rotary International Convention in Singapore, Bill Gates thanked Rotary Members by video for their role in polio eradication. His message celebrates the incredible progress we've made and reminds us that critical work remains to be done.
Our goal is to raise US$50 million for the PolioPlus Fund in 2024-25. Every dollar you donate, up to $50 million, will be matched 2-to-1 by the Gates Foundation. We encourage each club to contribute at least US$1,500 to PolioPlus. Clubs that meet this goal will receive a certificate of appreciation recognizing their vital contribution to this global effort.
You can find social media messages, educational and event materials, and more in the End Polio Now Resource Center to support the fundraising efforts of the Rotary Club of Bronxville.
Thank you for your leadership and your dedication to Doing Good in the World. Together, we end polio.
Sincerely,
The Rotary Foundation
Bronxville Mayor Mary Marvin (center) was a surprise guest at the Bronxville Rotary Club meeting on May 20th. She wished long-time Bronxville residents Bob and Adaire Warner a fond adieu from the entire village and thanked them for their decades of community service as the Warners prepare to move to Maine to live closer to their grandchildren.
By Susan Johnson
May 8, 2024: Rotary Clubs in Bronxville, Eastchester and Scarsdale will once again “Get Behind the Wheel” and collaborate on a second annual environmental day of service on Saturday, May 18th from 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (rain date May 19th), to clean up and beautify a section of the Bronx River Reservation, located near the Tuckahoe duck pond at the cross section of Garrett Avenue and the end of Tuckahoe Road.
If you would like to join in this day of service, please meet us at the Bronx River Duck Pond at 9am on May 18th.
The objective is to remove the invasive vines and scrub brush that have thrived and developed a stranglehold on trees over the years that will ultimately kill them–and have some fun while doing it!
Robert DelTorto, President of the Bronx River Parkway Reservation Conservancy, will train and supervise the volunteers, who will also plant native trees and shrubs along the banks of the river to help restore its ecology, preserve, and protect a beautiful section of the local landscape.
“Please join us for an inspiring day of humanity and fellowship for a fun day, focused on interacting with each other while delivering an important community service. Our hope is this event will become an ongoing collaboration in support of the Bronx River Parkway Reservation Conservancy,” said former member of the Westchester County Legislature Ruth Walter. She will chair the event, along with Rotary Board member Dr. Eduardo Saponara.
The idea for the collaboration with BRPRC on last year’s Day of Service came about after Ruth, a Board member of the Bronxville Rotary and the Bronx River Parkway Reservation Conservancy, met and volunteered with BRPRC president Robert DelTorto at the Bicycle Sundays vine cuttings (held regularly during the summer). She was drawn to Bob’s unwavering dedication to Westchester County Parks.
Bronxville Rotary to Host Annual Fundraiser on May 10
By Susan Johnson
Bronxville, NY (March 29, 2024) -- The Bronxville Rotary Club of New York will host its 2024 Annual Benefit from 7-9 pm on May 10th at the Siwanoy Country Club in Bronxville. The primary beneficiary is 914United, a nonprofit team of change agents advocating for at-risk youth and formerly incarcerated individuals residing within the lower Hudson Valley. The organization’s mission is to help justice-impacted individuals, including those who are out-of-school or involved with gangs, change course, and uplift their lives through community resources and skills development.
Founded by Jonathan Alvarez who spent 13 years behind bars, the ethos of the organization is based on his own experience as an incarcerated individual, offering case management and mentorship services, interactive workshops, and one-on-one coaching. This year’s event honoree is John W. Priesing, who has made an outstanding contribution to the SUNY Westchester community college system.
“You can transcend your environment. I am a walking example of that,” Jonathan said.
“We provide a team of seasoned role models whose genuine dedication and community value lies in supporting and mentoring those living within at-risk environments. Our aim is to assist youth in successfully transitioning into adulthood and provide returning citizens with essential support they need to sustain productive living.”
“Through the experiences they have lived, Jonathan’s team at 914United helps individuals who have been negatively affected by the criminal justice system become leaders and sustain a positive and constructive lifestyle,” said Bronxville Rotary President Louis Maggiotto.
Tickets are $300 each and benefit the Bronxville Rotary Foundation. To purchase tickets by check, please make check out to Bronxville Rotary Foundation, noting 914United, and mail it to Trustco Bank, Attn: Barbara Carlsson, 5-7 Park Place, Bronxville, NY 10708. If you wish to purchase tickets online, please click here:
If you cannot make the Gala but wish to make a donation, please mail a check to the address above and state in the subject line “914United Donation Only” or make a donation online below.
A diverse group of local professionals and community leaders committed to service above self, the Bronxville Rotary Club is proud to support local organizations that share its vision of social justice and community development and the Club’s efforts to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
The club is actively recruiting new members. Anyone interested in joining Rotary’s 1.4 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers -- who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change across the globe, in our communities and in ourselves -- to visit our website (https://bronxvillerotary.com/), follow us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/bronxvillerotary) and Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bronxville_rotary/.
AT THE MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. BREAKFAST IN BRONXVILLEBy Susan Johnson
January 22, 2024 – Bronxville, NY
Despite the winter’s first big freeze, the Reformed Church of Bronxville was packed for the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. breakfast on January 15th, hosted by the Eastchester Community Action Partnership (ECAP) under the auspices of its Director Denise Chin.
Through its Foundation, the Rotary Club of Bronxville was a primary sponsor of the event. Bronxville Rotary Club President Louis Maggiotto said, “As we join together this morning to pay tribute to one of our greatest Americans, the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., we reflect on one sermon Dr. King preached, in which he said, ‘All life is interrelated… somehow, we’re caught in an inescapable network of mutuality tied in a single garment of destiny.’ As we mark the life and legacy of Dr. King, the Bronxville Rotary Club recognizes a mutual destiny shared with our neighbors. We commit ourselves to working with ECAP towards improving the lives of all those in their communities and the lives of all the people of our world.”
By Susan Johnson
January 3, 2024 -- Bronxville NY
Through its Foundation, the Rotary Club of Bronxville will be the primary sponsor of the 37th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast, Monday January 15, 2024, hosted by the Eastchester Community Action Partnership (ECAP), Denise Chin, Director. All are invited. The event will be held at The Reformed Church of Bronxville, 180 Pondfield Road. Doors open at 8:15 am; breakfast service begins at 8:30 am and the program starts at 9 am. Tickets are $35. For more information, please call ECAP (914) 337-7768.
This year’s keynote speaker will be Dr. Belinda Miles, President, SUNY Westchester Community College. Social Justice Award winners this year are Maxwell Pearce and the Asbury Crestwood United Methodist Church in Tuckahoe. Mr. Pearce, a professional basketball player-ambassador known as “Hops Pearce” for the legendary Harlem Globetrotters team, known for its showmanship and fun antics. Having served as brand ambassador for several high-profile companies, he is also an accomplished mixed media artist weaving together the worlds of activism and sports in his hometown of Tuckahoe, NY, to increase local youth’s exposure to passion beyond sports. He and volunteers from the Church are very active in ECAP’s after school program.
Bronxville Rotary to Host Annual Fundraiser on May 10
By Susan Johnson
Bronxville, NY (March 29, 2024) -- The Bronxville Rotary Club of New York will host its 2024 Annual Benefit from 7-9 pm on May 10th at the Siwanoy Country Club in Bronxville. The primary beneficiary is 914United, a nonprofit team of change agents advocating for at-risk youth and formerly incarcerated individuals residing within the lower Hudson Valley. The organization’s mission is to help justice-impacted individuals, including those who are out-of-school or involved with gangs, change course, and uplift their lives through community resources and skills development.
Founded by Jonathan Alvarez who spent 13 years behind bars, the ethos of the organization is based on his own experience as an incarcerated individual, offering case management and mentorship services, interactive workshops, and one-on-one coaching. This year’s event honoree is John W. Priesing, who has made an outstanding contribution to the SUNY Westchester community college system.
“You can transcend your environment. I am a walking example of that,” Jonathan said.
“We provide a team of seasoned role models whose genuine dedication and community value lies in supporting and mentoring those living within at-risk environments. Our aim is to assist youth in successfully transitioning into adulthood and provide returning citizens with essential support they need to sustain productive living.”
“Through the experiences they have lived, Jonathan’s team at 914United helps individuals who have been negatively affected by the criminal justice system become leaders and sustain a positive and constructive lifestyle,” said Bronxville Rotary President Louis Maggiotto.
Tickets are $300 each and benefit the Bronxville Rotary Foundation. To purchase tickets by check, please make check out to Bronxville Rotary Foundation, noting 914United, and mail it to Trustco Bank, Attn: Barbara Carlsson, 5-7 Park Place, Bronxville, NY 10708. If you wish to purchase tickets online, please click here:
If you cannot make the Gala but wish to make a donation, please mail a check to the address above and state in the subject line “914United Donation Only” or make a donation online below.
A diverse group of local professionals and community leaders committed to service above self, the Bronxville Rotary Club is proud to support local organizations that share its vision of social justice and community development and the Club’s efforts to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
The club is actively recruiting new members. Anyone interested in joining Rotary’s 1.4 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers -- who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change across the globe, in our communities and in ourselves -- to visit our website (https://bronxvillerotary.com/), follow us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/bronxvillerotary) and Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bronxville_rotary/.
New Board Members Announced by The Rotary Club of Bronxville
By Susan Johnson
The Rotary Club of Bronxville named Lou Maggiotto as its next President, succeeding James Smith, for the fiscal year commencing July 1, 2023. Lou has been an attorney in Bronxville at Nobile Magarian & DiSalvo for more than 20 years and was President of the Bronxville Chamber of Commerce Board for one year. In his hometown of Hastings-on-Hudson, Lou has been the Acting Village Justice and member of the School Board. Professionally he was an Associate at Kaye Scholer (now Arnold and Porter), General Counsel at Hartz Mountain and Chairman of the Board of the Association of Corporate Counsel. Lou and his wife Susan have 4 children and 10 grandchildren.
“I have long admired Rotary’s commitment to community service that we’ve seen in action for many years in Bronxville and around the world. It is my privilege to be at the helm of this organization focused on improving the quality of life for future generations and work with its talented and dedicated members,” said Lou.
Outgoing Bronxville Rotary President James Smith is Downstate Regional Officer of Trustco Bank in Westchester, Rockland, Bergen, Orange, Putnam, Duchess, and Ulster Counties. As Rotary President and Program Chair he created an innovative speaker’s program for weekly meetings. He presided over the 2023 Annual Gala which netted over $45,000 for Neighbors Link and the recent Day of Service on May 20th, volunteering for the Bronx River Parkway Reservation Conservancy (BRPRC) to clean up and beautify a section of the Bronx River Reservation. James and his wife Kristen have two daughters, Madison and Mackenzie.
New Rotary Club officer:
- Eileen McCabe, Vice President, and Director
Current Rotary Club officers:
- David Stern, Vice President
- Matt Metz, Treasurer
- William Zambelli, Secretary
New At Large Directors (three-year term expiring June 2026):
- Gary Finger
- Susan Johnson
- Nicky Standard
Current At Large Directors (two-year term expiring June 2025):
- Valon Nikci
- Eduardo Saponara
- Ruth Walter
At Large Directors (one-year term expiring June 2024):
- Joel Benoliel
-
Richard Pink (to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Anne Coyle-Lemberger. He will be eligible for a full three-year term in 2024)
-
Mark Welshimer
Actions Regarding the Rotary Club of Bronxville Foundation
The Nominating committee also recommended that Peter Thorp, upon expiration of his term as Trustee for the Rotary Club of Bronxville on June 30, 2023, be re-selected for a new five-year term commencing immediately following that date. Under its Trust Agreement, the Foundation has five Trustees, all having five-year terms that expire each year on June 30th.
The Nominating committee also recommended that Peter Thorp, upon expiration of his term as Trustee for the Rotary Club of Bronxville on June 30, 2023, be re-selected for a new five-year term commencing immediately following that date. Under its Trust Agreement, the Foundation has five Trustees, all having five-year terms that expire each year on June 30th.
Rain Did Not Dampen Enthusiasm for Rotary Clubs’
Extraordinary Day of Community Service
by Susan Johnson
Less dressed up than the weekend’s spring prom goers, 48 members and volunteers of Rotary Clubs in Bronxville, Eastchester and Scarsdale rolled up their sleeves for the “Get Behind the Wheel” environmental day of service on Saturday May 20th. All volunteering for the Bronx River Parkway Reservation Conservancy (BRPRC), everyone helped clean up and beautify a section of the Bronx River Reservation near the Tuckahoe duck pond at the cross section of Garrett Avenue and the end of Tuckahoe Road. BRPRC president Bob DelTorto trained and supervised the volunteers.
Some cut while others gave a forceful heave ho to pull out invasive vines and scrub brush that developed a stranglehold on trees over the years and enjoyed some fun and spirited rivalry while doing it. Native trees and shrubs were also planted on the reservation to help restore its ecology, preserve and protect a beautiful section of the local landscape. Volunteers also picked up bottles, cans, and other trash. At the end of the day everyone competed against each other to build the largest piles of debris for removal by the Parks staff.
On Wednesday nights at 7:30 pm, look for the guy with the bright orange vest in front of Mt. Sinai West Hospital (10th Avenue & 58th Street). That's Billy. He's giving away suits. He gives them to the homeless so they can "look nice and get a job."Billy Preston has been doing this, or something like it for almost twenty years with the Midnight Run. If you donate suits or shoes or a neck ties in the bin behind the Reformed Church, it's likely that Billy and a group from Bronxville Rotary will fit them to one of his wards. Billy says, "Last week was a good week. We gave away twelve of our twenty suits." At our Monday lunch meeting Rotary members called Billy "a remarkable blend of compassion and toughness and an inspiration to us all."
What You Can Do
Billy says, "Give Shoes". We're desperate for shoes. The suit helps but it's nice if our guys aren't wearing sneakers." Starting in September (it's not open during summer) you can put suits, shoes and accessories in the bin in the little parking lot behind the Reformed Church.
Former Bronxville resident Tania Weiss makes an excellent case for Cancer Support Team. We discovered a wonderful photo of Tania and Alan on the web site which we can't resist reproducing here.Cancer Support Team is the only Westchester based nonprofit home care program, licensed by the New York State Department of Health, providing access to essential health care services, professional nursing, social work counseling, case management and other supportive services free of charge and without regard to insurance coverage to our patients at any stage of the illness.
What You Can Do
Give any time but the annual gala is May 9 at the Bronxville Field Club (the day before ours). If you can't stand two consecutive days of beneficial fun, then certainly consider contributing to this excellent cause. Online tickets available at https://cancersupportteam.org/events-page/registration/
A Call to Membership
At a recent meeting Cecily Smith reminds us that Rotary is becoming "21st century Inclusive," screening the short (3 min) youtube video "All That We Share." To join, contact any of our officers (listed in the left column). Check out the Rotary FOUR WAY TEST which asks:
- Is it the TRUTH?
- Is it FAIR to all concerned?
- Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
- Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
GiGi's Playhouse
Jennifer Cook (yes she grew up in Bronxville) changed our view of Down Syndrome. She is volunteer co-president of Gigi's Playhouse Westchester in Ardsley where exercise and educational programs improve lives for individuals with Down syndrome, their families and the community. Gigi's provides support, tutoring and exercise. Improvements in muscle tone and fine motor control can improve speech, and mobility. Training in literacy and math can maximize opportunities for daily achievement and lasting acceptance. 
What You Can Do
60% of Gigi Playhouse Westchester funding comes from their yearly Gala tickets, journal ads, sponsorships and an online auction. The gala is on March 23rd. Information is available on their web site: https://gigisplayhouse.org/westchester/gala/.
Groundwork Hudson Valley
Bridgette Griswold (Executive Director) gave a spirited presentation on the Groundwork Hudson Valley. The Yonkers-based organization works with community residents to restore the urban landscape, promoting long-term economic and environmental neighborhood renewal. Groundwork has uncovered polluted rivers, turned an abandoned train line into a new greenway, and transformed vacant lots into urban farms and playgrounds. Their Science Barge is an important educational resource on the Hudson River.
The National Park Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service consider Groundwork’s youth programs among the best in the nation. Groundwork Hudson Valley won the 2017 Outstanding Careers & Technical Education Partner of the Year Award from Yonkers Public Schools and the National Park Service 2016 Centennial Volunteer Challenge Award among others.
What You Can Do
Join their impressive list of major funders. Contact Sara Brody, Director of Development at sarab@groundworkhv.org. Or join the Green Team (photo below).
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