November Update from Zander

Update from our Club President Zander Abbott
 
To my fellow Brunswick Rotary Club members,
 
It's been a busy November for our club, and I am excited about what we have in store for December as we close out the calendar year.  First and foremost, we been busy participating in local events (like the exceptional team who represented our club in the annual DBA bed races - check out our website for a photo) and raising money to support our local community.  Club treasurer Fred Horch delivered a check to Tedford for $365.82 to purchase Thanksgiving Turkeys and meals for our community members served by Tedford housing.  This exceeded our club "green bottle" goal - thanks to all for your generosity!
 
Looking ahead, we just kicked off our annual Amaryllis Sale which is a major fundraiser for our club.  A special thanks to Dee Perry for setting up the annual project - please check out the website, pick your favorites, and order them as gifts for friends and family.  Our goal this year is $2,000!
 
Another annual event that makes our club proud is the Bell Ringing with Salvation Army.  Under the leadership of club member extraordinaire Mark Alexander, we can sign up on our website and help support the cause from 9a - 6p on December 14th.
 
I hope to see you all next week for our Monday noontime meeting.  We will be hearing from the local Curtis Memorial Library leadership team about new and special programs at the library.  After our club meeting, we will be hosting our monthly board meeting - please feel free to attend and listen.
 
Lastly - Save the date for our 100th anniversary dinner on Sunday, May 18th, 2025 at 5:30pm at the Brunswick Hotel.
 
Happy holidays to you and yours,
 
Zander
President Zander Abbott
November Update from Zander 2024-12-02 05:00:00Z 0
Our Rotary Holiday Fundraiser 2024-11-26 05:00:00Z 0

Walter H. “Doc” Phillips Award presented to Surrey and Hugh Hardcastle

2024 Walter H. “Doc” Phillips Memorial Award was presented to Surrey and Hugh Hardcastle

 

In 2019, Harpswell and the Brunswick Rotary Club lost a beloved member, Walter “Doc” Phillips. Alongside his wife Joan, Doc was a pillar of the community, contributing to the Conservation Committee, Harpswell Land Trust, and Rotary for over 40 years.  To celebrate his legacy, the Brunswick Rotary Club established the annual Walter “Doc” H. Phillips Memorial Award in 2020. A plaque at the Harpswell Town Office Building honors each awardee. The recipients should be community members who have shown dedicated involvement in areas that were dear to Doc, such as land conservation, volunteerism, service to others, education, water quality, and science programs. The award is presented annually on Doc’s birthday.

 

This year we are happy to announce that the recipients of the Walter H. “Doc” Phillips Memorial Award are Surrey and Hugh Hardcastle.

Their contributions to the Harpswell community through various initiatives and organizations have been truly remarkable.

 

Surrey’s Contributions:

  • Harpswell Aging at Home (HAH): Surrey is a key member of the HAH Steering Committee and leads the Food Team. This team coordinates the “Meals in a Pinch” program, delivering meals to those in need, and has provided over 4,000 meals this year. Surrey also organizes “Lunch with Friends,” bringing residents together to share meals and camaraderie.
  • Community Involvement: Surrey is deeply involved with the Islands Community Church and is a founding member of the Knit Wits, a group dedicated to community service through knitting.

Hugh’s Contributions:

  • Harpswell Aging at Home (HAH): Hugh serves on the HAH Steering Committee and leads the Transportation Committee. This committee coordinates drivers to assist residents in Harpswell, Brunswick, Topsham, and Bath who are unable to drive, ensuring they can attend appointments and run errands.
  • Local Organizations: Hugh is on the Board of the Orrs Island Library and serves as its Treasurer. He is also involved with the Islands Community Church as a member of the Worship Committee and Treasurer. Additionally, Hugh has served as the Treasurer of the Carpenter Boat Shop, contributing to its mission of providing boatbuilding and life skills training.

Bowdoin College Involvement:

  • Host Parents: Surrey and Hugh have been linked to Bowdoin College as Host Parents, fostering relationships with 15-16 students over the years. They have sponsored meals for returning athletes and connected students with HAH activities.
  • Common Good Program: They have supported Bowdoin’s Common Good Program, which trains students in community development. This program involves students researching local non-profits’ needs, raising funds, and learning to write and submit grants.

Surrey and Hugh’s initiative, drive, enthusiasm, and genuine interest in others have significantly shaped a better Harpswell community. Their dedication to service and community engagement is truly inspiring.

 

Photo: Joan Phillips, Surrey & Hugh Hardcastle

Walter H. “Doc” Phillips Award presented to Surrey and Hugh Hardcastle 2024-11-17 05:00:00Z 0

Running the Brunswick Bed Race 2024

 
The Rotary Club of Brunswick joined in the Brunswick Downtown Association’s [BDA] Bed Race Saturday morning.
 
We had the use of a BDA bed and decorated it with Rotary banners.  We added posters that told about projects and events the Rotary has done over the past year: the Bike Rodeo, Turkeys for Tedford, student grants, Toolboxes for Africa, reading with First Graders at Kate Furbush School, apartment prep for New Mainers, Beach Cleanup on Bailey Island, Games on the Mall, Tool Trailer for Habitat for Humanity, Community Awards,  Treats and Tents for Halloween, Polio eradication from the earth, and Valentines for Vets.  We’ve been busy!  
      Rotarians guiding The Race Bed were Steve Baldwin, Peggy Siegle, Curt Dale Clark, and Marc and Lori Burkhart. Unfortunately we did not win but now we have experienced racers - so next year could be a different story!
      The Rotary Club of Brunswick meets every Monday at noon (except for holidays) at Martin’s Point Community Center, 114 Bath Road in Brunswick. We have a speaker at most meetings representing the community, an organization, various organizations or other topics of interest. The public is always welcome. Join us for a meeting and learn about the Rotary!
 
 
Running the Brunswick Bed Race 2024 2024-11-12 05:00:00Z 0
Thank You to All Our Veterans 2024-11-11 05:00:00Z 0
The Rotary Club of Brunswick Beach Cleanup 2024-09-06 04:00:00Z 0

JULY 4TH FUN & GAMES

THERE WILL BE FAMILY FUN FOR EVERYONE!
Join us on the Brunswick Town Mall...
 
JULY 4TH FUN & GAMES 2024-06-13 04:00:00Z 0
Memorial Day 2024-05-27 04:00:00Z 0

28th Annual Bike Rodeo and Family Safety Day

    We had a great time at the 28th Annual Bike Rodeo and Family Safety Day on Saturday, May 18 at the Brunswick Park’s and Recreation Department, with 150 children participating in a variety of activities. 

    Children took their bikes thru a course, with instructors from the Masons and Brunswick Rotary making sure they stopped, yielded, looked both ways, and stayed on course. The course itself was chalked out and signed by long time Wheeler and Bike Rodeo organizer Rich Cromwell with his trusty assistant Mark. The Brunswick Police Department registered the children’s bikes, with a very large orange fox giving high fives to all. 

    Rotarians George, Carla , Gary, and Larry greeted the children as they arrived, and checked in with them. Rotarian Patty was the MC for the event. A big thank you goes out to our local Walmart for donating 6 new bicycles and to the bag stuffers for the gift bags given out to children once they had completed nine stations in the event. 

    A total of 12 bicycles were given out to Charlotte S age 5, Barbara J age 11, Rosemary S age 9, Levi S age 6, Emerie L age 4, Sophia L age 11, Vivian W age 6, Sebastian S age 7, Leo D age7, Isaac K age 7, Henry S age 8, and Molly B age 6, Ice G age 8, Chris A age 5, Finley H age 8, and Ella O age 6! They all received water bottles with gifts inside from Center Street Cycle. Another wonderful event for children coordinated and put on by various local organizations in Brunswick.

And there were many organizations there supporting and educating the children and adults too

    The Brunswick Fire Department brought the Smoke House so children could learn how to react to a fire, if they were ever in a dangerous situation. 

    Center Street Cycle manned two bicycle safety tents, making sure every part of the children’s bicycles were in great shape, and  functioning properly. 

    Cub Scout Pack 648 brought an archery station for the children to try their skills at, and also to teach archery safety. 

    Merrymeeting Wheelers Bicycle Club fit new bike helmets (donated by the Brunswick Rotary) to heads large and small, making sure everyone had the ability to abide by the rules of the road. 

    Martin’s Point Tent with Rotarian Lisa at the booth talking about ticks, and educating on how to check for ticks and how to remove them, and how to be safe outdoors in the summer. 

    Be Smart, a gun safety organization, had a booth to talk to parents and children about the dangers of unsecured guns, and gun safety in the homes. 

    Sabrina, Tom, Aaron, David, and Rosalind, all from Brunswick Parks and Recreation Department were crucial in the planning, set up and execution of the event. Our publicity sponsor, Mid Coast Hospital provides all the material that went out to the schools, and advertising. They had their own booth manned by Melissa, who spoke to children about the dangers of prolonged sun exposure, and how to avoid sunburns. 

    The Maine Wardens Service brought their truck and boat to display for children to view. 

     This year’s event was a great success and we are all looking forward to a wonderful summer! 

28th Annual Bike Rodeo and Family Safety Day 2024-05-22 04:00:00Z 0
Vertical Victory Project 2024-03-18 04:00:00Z 0

Hannaford Community Bag Program

Support the Brunswick Rotary Club this month (March) and the Hannaford Community Bag Program!
Buy a reusable Community Bag in March. For every $2.50 reusable Community Bag purchased throughout March 2024
from the Hannaford’s store at Cook’s Corner, 8 Gurnet Road,
the Brunswick Rotary Club will receive $1.
It's a great opportunity to raise money to help our community.
 
Hannaford, 8 Gurnet Road, Cook’s Corner, Brunswick Maine
Hannaford Community Bag Program 2024-03-01 05:00:00Z 0
Getting Apartments Ready for New Mainers 2024-01-01 05:00:00Z 0
Walter H. “Doc” Phillips Award presented to Gayle Hays 2023-11-19 05:00:00Z 0
Students Awarded $1000 Grants for 2023 2023-10-09 04:00:00Z 0
Claude Bonang Presented with Paul Harris Award 2023-09-21 04:00:00Z 0
Celebrating Community at the BDA Barbeque 2023-09-10 04:00:00Z 0 Brunswick Rotary Club
Pencil Boxes Delivered to Kate Furbish 2023-09-10 04:00:00Z 0
New Rotarians Roger Ryberg and Carolyn Dow 2023-08-08 04:00:00Z 0
The Rotary Presented a $1000 Grant to Benedita Nanga 2023-08-08 04:00:00Z 0
2023 Games on the Mall 2023-07-09 04:00:00Z 0
Tent or Treat on Halloween 2022-11-03 04:00:00Z 0
Susan and Steve Weems receive Walter H. ‘Doc’ Phillips Award 2022-11-03 04:00:00Z 0
Amaryllis Holiday Fundraiser 2022-10-25 04:00:00Z 0
World Polio Day Recognized 2022-10-25 04:00:00Z 0
Toolbox Initiative Receives District Grant 2022-09-13 04:00:00Z 0
Rotary Club welcomes new member 2022-08-29 04:00:00Z 0
Club awards scholarship to Brunswick student 2022-07-06 04:00:00Z 0
Rotary welcomes new president 2022-07-06 04:00:00Z 0
Mt. Ararat student honored for service 2022-06-30 04:00:00Z 0
New member welcomed into Club 2022-06-15 04:00:00Z 0
Bike Rodeo 2022 2022-06-15 04:00:00Z 0
New member joins Rotary 2022-05-16 04:00:00Z 0
Carlene Byron represents Brunswick Rotary at the District Conference 2022-05-16 04:00:00Z 0
Rotary Clubs exceed $10,000 goal for Ukraine relief 2022-05-14 04:00:00Z 0
Rotary visits Maine State Music Theatre 2022-05-11 04:00:00Z 0
Three Rotary clubs achieve $10,000 goal for Ukraine support 2022-04-28 04:00:00Z 0
Brunswick Rotary Club to recognize Daniel Atkins with Paul Harris Fellow Award 2022-04-25 04:00:00Z 0
We are excited to welcome Corinna Goodwin as our newest member. 2022-03-21 04:00:00Z 0
Peggy Siegle recognized as Honorary Paul Harris Fellow 2022-03-10 05:00:00Z 0
Rotary delivers Valentines for Veterans Rota L Knott 2022-02-10 05:00:00Z 0
Brunswick Rotary Club honors four members with prestigious Paul Harris Fellow Awards Rota L Knott 2022-02-10 05:00:00Z 0
Rotary Club of Brunswick dedicates historic plaque recognizing Skolfield Shipyard 2022-02-10 05:00:00Z 0

Support the Club's Community Fund

Your purchase of a journal package for just $25 helps fund Club community projects such as the annual Bike Rodeo, Games on the Mall, and Christmas gifts for children in need in our community.  Each Journal package includes the journal with beautiful Rotarian-taken photos, twelve matching note cards with envelopes, and a raffle ticket for a weekly cash drawing for $25.  Check out the package here:  https://drive.google.com/file/d/19oxCtXdLMiQmIKzKwL4WPSSG-tFrM97Q/view?usp=sharin
Support the Club's Community Fund Michelle Lester 2021-12-08 05:00:00Z 0
Club Members work on the Tom Settlemore garden pergola and swing Michelle Lester 2021-09-19 04:00:00Z 0

Beach Clean-Up Day

The Brunswick Rotary Club joined other coastal Rotary Clubs in Rotary District 7780 in cleaning up local beaches on Saturday, September 11, 2021.  Click below to review the day in pictures!
Beach Clean-Up Day Michelle Lester 2021-09-12 04:00:00Z 0
Leadership Changover 2021 Michelle Lester 2021-07-18 04:00:00Z 0
In-Person Meetings Resume July 12 Michelle Lester 2021-07-01 04:00:00Z 0

“Games on the Mall” Postponed

The Brunswick Rotary Club is sorry to report that Games on the Mall is canceled for July 4 due to expected weather conditions.
We hope to reschedule this fun family event later this summer. We are looking forward to seeing the community again!
“Games on the Mall” Postponed Michelle Lester 2021-06-27 04:00:00Z 0
Annual Walter H. "Doc" PhillipsMemorial Award Recipient Recognized 2021-06-24 04:00:00Z 0
The Brunswick Rotary Club Selects Local Student for Grant 2021-06-07 04:00:00Z 0

Have you registered yet for the 2021 district virtual conference?

June 4  6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
June 5  9:00 to 11:30 a.m.
$20 fee – all proceeds go to Polio Plus
*Guests Speakers*Entertainment*Memorials*Recognition*Celebrations*President's Forum* *Presentation of Walter Foundation to Frank and Marty Helman
 
Friday night’s festivities also include a virtual auction.  All proceeds will go to the annual fund. Follow this link to register:  https://go.rotary7780gives.org/conference2021
 
Bonus!  There is an additional online auction with items ready for your bids. Follow this link:  https://go.rotary7780gives.org/conference2021/Auction
 
Have you registered yet for the 2021 district virtual conference? Michelle Lester 2021-05-17 04:00:00Z 0
New Paul Harris Fellows Recognized 2021-05-03 04:00:00Z 0
Rotary International Adds Seventh Area of Focus Michelle Lester 2021-04-11 04:00:00Z 0
Annual Walter H. "Doc" Phillips Memorial Award Recipient Selected Michelle Lester 2021-03-22 04:00:00Z 0
Valentines for Veterans Carolyn Bulliner 2021-02-17 05:00:00Z 0
Global Grant Recipient Named in Forbes’ List Claudia Frost 2021-01-31 05:00:00Z 0
Annual Regifting Auction Michelle Lester 2021-01-09 05:00:00Z 0
2021 Calendars Still Available Michelle Lester 2020-12-30 05:00:00Z 0
The Brunswick Rotary Club:  People of Action 2020 Michelle Lester 2020-12-19 05:00:00Z 0
Brunswick Rotary Club Recognizes Maine CDC Leader Michelle Lester 2020-12-16 05:00:00Z 0
Tom Farrell Recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow Michelle Lester 2020-11-24 05:00:00Z 0
Dominican Republic Hospital Fights the Coronavirus with Rotarian Assistance Michelle Lester 2020-11-01 04:00:00Z 0
Million Mask Challenger Tour Michelle Lester 2020-11-01 04:00:00Z 0
Amazon Smile 2020-10-25 04:00:00Z 0

The Gathering Place District Grant

 
 
The Brunswick Rotary Club has received approval on a district grant to purchase a large outside awning for The Gathering Place. This will allow more people to socialize at the center and still observe social distancing guidelines. Three club members, Larry Bernstein (President), Fred Horch (President-Elect), and Carolyn Bulliner (former President) joined a team from The Gathering Place to relocate trees and shrubs in preparation for the installation this morning.
The Gathering Place District Grant Michelle Lester 2020-07-21 04:00:00Z 0
Annual Walter "Doc" Phillips Award Presented to Linda Blanton 2020-06-26 04:00:00Z 0

Walter H. "Doc" Phillips Memorial Award
First Recipient Award Ceremony Announced

The Brunswick Rotary Club is pleased to announce that the first recipient of the Walter H. “Doc” Phillips Award is Linda Blanton. Linda will be recognized on Thursday, June 25 at 4:30 p.m. in a brief ceremony at the Harpswell town office prior to a Selectman’s meeting. Space is limited so those interested in attending should contact the Brunswick Rotary Club via their facebook account.
 
 
Walter H. "Doc" Phillips Memorial Award First Recipient Award Ceremony Announced Michelle Lester 2020-06-15 04:00:00Z 0
No Games on the Mall 2020 2020-05-18 04:00:00Z 0
Local Rotary Clubs donate $3000 to  Midcoast Hunger Prevention Program Michelle Lester 2020-05-11 04:00:00Z 0
Brunswick Rotary Club Meetings Resume Monday, March 30 2020-03-25 04:00:00Z 0
COVID-19 "Tiger Team" Makes Recommendations 2020-03-25 04:00:00Z 0

COVID-19 Update

During this time of uncertainty and confusion, the Board of Directors is working hard to determine how best to serve our community.  We will continue to provide updates to the membership as available via Facebook, website and email messages.
COVID-19 Update 2020-03-22 04:00:00Z 0
Club Suspends All In-Person Activities 2020-03-16 04:00:00Z 0
Walter H. "Doc" Phillips Memory Lives On 2020-03-08 05:00:00Z 0
Paul Harris Fellows 2020 David Taft 2020-03-08 05:00:00Z 0
The Brunswick Rotary Club Announces Midcoast Maine's Got Talent 2020 talent show 2020-02-05 05:00:00Z 0
Historic Sites of the Mid Coast Region Michelle Lester 2020-02-05 05:00:00Z 0
Rotary: What's in it for me? Michelle Lester 2019-12-16 05:00:00Z 0

Stuff the Bus! 

The Brunswick Rotary Club announces "STUFF THE BUS" to collect foodstuffs for the Midcoast Hunger Prevention Program.
Stuff the Bus! Michelle Lester 2019-11-20 05:00:00Z 0
Rotary International Announces Progress in Eliminating Polio Globally Michelle Lester 2019-11-16 05:00:00Z 0
Brunswick Rotary Club Hosts Annual July 4 Games on the Mall  2019-08-05 04:00:00Z 0 4th of July,Brunswick Rotary Club,Games on the Mall,Independence Day
Avoid Long Distance Running at the Brunswick Rotary Club's Patriots' Day Half-K on April 15th! 2019-03-19 04:00:00Z 0

Midcoast Maine's Got Talent Returns on May 17, 2019

Posted by Jennifer Iacovelli on Jan 31, 2019
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The Brunswick Rotary Club is proud to sponsor Midcoast Maine's Got Talent for the eight year. The talent show will be held on Friday, May 17, 2019 at 7:00pm in Brunswick High School's Crooker Theatre and will feature 20 acts.

Midcoast Maine's Got Talent Returns on May 17, 2019 Jennifer Iacovelli 2019-01-31 05:00:00Z 0
Essence of Elegance Fashion Show & Wine Tasting: November 15, 2018 Jennifer Iacovelli 2018-10-16 04:00:00Z 0 Brunswick Rotary Club,It's all Good,Maine,Universal Promise,community fund,event,fashion show,fundraiser,wine tasting

The Rotary Club of Brunswick Provides Additional Computers for the Teen Center

Posted by Jennifer Iacovelli on Aug 23, 2018
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The Rotary Club of Brunswick has been awarded a $5000 grant to purchase nine laptop computers, mouses and a securable computer charging cabinet for the Brunswick Teen Center. This competitively awarded Rotary District 7780 grant was approved mid-July and awarded based on its quality and positive community impact.  The $5000 check was presented to Jordan Cardone, Teen Center Director, and Stacy Frizzle, Executive Director of People Plus/Teen Center during the August 20 Rotary meeting. A following ceremony at The Teen Center unveiled the new computers to the delight of the teens.
The Rotary Club of Brunswick Provides Additional Computers for the Teen Center Jennifer Iacovelli 2018-08-23 04:00:00Z 0
Save the Date (11.15.18) for our Fashion Show Fundraiser! Jennifer Iacovelli 2018-08-20 04:00:00Z 0 Brunswick Rotary Club,Hilton Garden Inn,It's all Good,fashion show,fundraiser
Buy a Reusable Hannaford Bag & Support the Brunswick Rotary Community Fund! Jennifer Iacovelli 2018-07-12 04:00:00Z 0 Brunswick Rotary Club,Hannaford,community fund,fundraiser,reusable bags
Join Us for "Games on the Mall" on July, 4 2018 Jennifer Iacovelli 2018-06-11 04:00:00Z 0 4th of July,Brunswick Rotary Club,Games on the Mall,Independence Day,Maine,family event
Coming on Friday, May 18: Midcoast Maine’s Got Talent!  Jennifer Iacovelli 2018-05-07 04:00:00Z 0 Curt Dale Clark
24th Annual Brunswick Bike Rodeo & Family Safety Day on May 19th Jennifer Iacovelli 2018-05-03 04:00:00Z 0 Brunswick Rotary Club,bike rodeo,events,family safety

Midcoast Maine’s Got Talent 2018!  Seeks Contestants
 

Posted by Jennifer Iacovelli on Mar 13, 2018
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The Rotary Club of Brunswick is now accepting applications for Midcoast Maine’s Got Talent! 2018.  The seventh year of this fun and well-attended local talent show will be held on May 18th, at 7 p.m., at the Crooker Theatre in Brunswick. Deadline for applications is April 16th.
Midcoast Maine’s Got Talent 2018!  Seeks Contestants  Jennifer Iacovelli 2018-03-13 04:00:00Z 0 Brunswick Rotary Club,Maine State Music Theater,Midcoast Maine's Got Talent,Teresa Gillis,application,event,talent show
Brunswick Rotary Club Announces Fashion Show & Wine Tasting Jennifer Iacovelli 2017-10-16 04:00:00Z 0 Brunswick Rotary Club,It's all Good,Tedford Housing,The Daniel,Universal Promise,event,fashion show,fundraiser,wine tasting
Rotarians Help the Houston Area With the Gulf Coast Disaster Relief Fund 2017-09-07 04:00:00Z 0

2017 Midcoast Maine's Got Talent

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Brunswick Rotary Club presents Midcoast Maine’s Got Talent

Friday, March 31, 2017 - 7:00 PM
Crooker Theatre
116 Maquoit Rd. Brunswick
 
Adults $12 ~ Seniors & students $10 ~ Family $30
 
For more information, email: midcoastmainesgottalent@comcast.net
2017 Midcoast Maine's Got Talent Claudia Frost 2017-01-02 05:00:00Z 0
Art Feeds the Heart Fundraising Auction 2016-11-01 04:00:00Z 0
Growstown School Recognized 2016-10-21 04:00:00Z 0
4th of July Games on the Mall 2016 2016-07-30 04:00:00Z 0
Brunswick Students Honored 2015-10-26 04:00:00Z 0

Dennis St. Pierre Honored

On February 24, 2015, Dennis St Pierre, a member of the Rotary Club of Brunswick, Maine, was presented with a merit award by our District Governor Larry Furbish, at the World Understanding and Peace Dinner in South Portland.
The guest speaker at this dinner was Rick King, International Rotary President for 2001-2002. It was absolutely fascinating hearing him tell his story about how Rotary has made a difference in his life, and in the World! The crowd was completely silent as we listened to his compelling words. It made me so proud to be a Rotarian!
 
Dennis was honored as an outstanding “new” Rotarian who has stepped up and understood what being a Rotarian is all about. Dennis has taken on significant responsibility in his short tenure, and has made a great impact to our club. His passion for helping people, his energy and his creative mind are the traits that set him apart.  Please join me in congratulating Dennis on this great honor!
Dennis St. Pierre Honored 2015-02-25 00:00:00Z 0

Midcoast Maine Has Talent

Posted by Michael Sfirri

Midcoast Maine Has Got Talent - But you knew that. Now is your chance to be part of it.  On Saturday, May 9, the Rotary Club of Brunswick, Maine will present some of Maine's finest singing and dancing talent on the stage of the Orion Performing Arts Center in Topsham.  To be part of the action, download an application here:

http://bit.ly/1MVfw8Q

 or get one from one of our fine sponsors. 

Or keep your inner Elvis bottled up inside and just come out for an evening of wicked good entertainment.

 

Midcoast Maine Has Talent Michael Sfirri 2015-02-22 00:00:00Z 0

Brunswick Rotary Supports MCHPP Pack a Backpack Program

Brunswick Rotary President Gary Torow presents a check to Ethan Minton, MCHPP Program Director
 
On Monday, December 8, 2014 the Rotary Club of Brunswick Maine presented Midcoast Hunger Prevention Program with a check for $3000 to support their Pack a Backpack program. As the MCHPP website explains, 

Every Monday morning, over a thousand students in the greater-Brunswick area arrive at school hungry. They leave school on Friday afternoon and simply don’t have enough food at home to provide the nutrition they need on the weekend. It affects their ability to concentrate. It affects their ability to learn. It affects their ability to do all the things many others take for granted. It doesn’t have to be this way. For around $5 a week, we can supply a student and their family with enough food to get through the weekend so they don’t go hungry.

The Rotary Club presentation is in addition to a $1000 check presented previously. The money was raised primarily through a Pack a Back Pack 4ME event in October. 

Brunswick Rotary Supports MCHPP Pack a Backpack Program 2014-12-09 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of Brunswick Receives Global Grant

The International Rotary Foundation awarded a $35,770 Global Grant to the Rotary Club of Brunswick for a project to train teachers to recognize common illnesses in Lusaka, Zambia. The local club has partnered with the  Nkwazi Rotary Club of Lusaka as well as “Healthy Kids/Brighter Future,” a local non-profit, and the N’Gombe Health Clinic, in Lusaka. This alliance will bring health screening, health education and treatment for common illnesses to 16,000 of the poorest and most vulnerable children in Zambia
 
The genesis of this project came from a visit to a Brunswick Rotary Club meeting last March from Lonnie Hackett, a Bowdoin College senior. While Lonnie was a student at Bowdoin College, he had an opportunity to travel to Zambia during summer break in 2011 to teach English and math. While there, he noticed an alarming gap in his students’ knowledge of basic health care including common and preventable childhood diseases, sanitation, and HIV/AIDS education and prevention.  
 
Lonnie traveled to rural Nepal in the summer of 2012 where he observed a school-based healthcare model that he believed could be modified to fit the vulnerable children in the N’Gombe district of Lusaka, where the poorest children live and attend school.  
 
During his senior year as a biochemistry major, Lonnie garnered the knowledge of any global health expert who would listen to his goal of establishing a program to train teachers as health care providers within the 50-public schools that serve children who suffer from treatable diseases. He established “Healthy Kids/ Brighter Future” to bring medical services and health education to children in need.  
 
Rotary International is one of the largest not-for-profit service organizations in the world, with approximately 1.6 million members actively participating in thousands of local clubs spread across 161 countries around the world. Rotary International Foundation contributes nearly $100 million every year toward humanitarian programs in which Rotary members participate and voluntarily raise funds.  
 
The Rotary Club of Brunswick was chartered in 1925 and currently has an active membership of 70 community leaders. They meet weekly, except on holidays, at noon on Monday in Brunswick.
 
Rotary Club of Brunswick Receives Global Grant 2014-10-22 04:00:00Z 0

Curtis Memorial Library Honored

Posted by Michael Sfirri
Kate Egan, president of the Curtis Memorial Library Board of Directors, and Brunswick Rotarian and retired US Navy Captain Charles "Chuck" Mull, stand in front of a bronze plaque marking the 130 year old library as a historic site. The Brunswick Pride and Heritage Committee of the Rotary Club of Brunswick sponsored the plaque's creation and dedication, honoring the library that began in 1883 as a single room at the town hall with a collection of 1300 books. The current library location opened in 1904 and is the 13th location honored by the Brunswick Pride and Heritage Committee. For a full listing, click on the Brunswick Pride and Hertiage link.Image
Curtis Memorial Library Honored Michael Sfirri 0

Rotary Food Drive a HUGE Success

Posted by Michael Sfirri

ImageAs you can see from the photo the food drive Saturday February 23 was a HUGE success! Over a ton of food was collected for MidCoast Hunger Prevention Program as well as $310.00 in cash. Thank you to everyone who spent time at Shaw's on Saturday and to everyone who made a donation to help feed those who's plates are empty. We are Rotarians and we do make a difference!

Rotary Food Drive a HUGE Success Michael Sfirri 0

Brunswick Rotary Announces Hometown Idol 2013

Posted by Michael Sfirri

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The Rotary Club of Brunswick, Maine wishes to thank all who participated in the Second Annual Hometown Idol and helped to make it a successful event. We would especially like to thank our sponsors for the event, without whom it would not be possible. Thank you again and we'll see you next year.

Brunswick Rotary Announces Hometown Idol 2013 Michael Sfirri 0

Brunswick Rotary Builds Swing Set for Homeless Children

Posted by Michael Sfirri

The Brunswick Rotary Club recently installed a new swing-set at the Tedford Housing – Family Shelter on Federal Street in Brunswick. “There had been a swing set there but it had to be closed a few years ago as it was deteriorating and no longer safe,” says Don Kniseley, a member of the Rotary Club and former director of Tedford Housing. “Tedford did not have funds to replace the playground equipment at this time so we received a Rotary International Foundation grant and matched it with Club funds to purchase and install the swing set.”

Craig Phillips, current Tedford Housing executive director says that this is an important new addition to their work with homeless families and children. "When families are in such a stressful situation, having safe and appropriate outdoor play space really means a lot. We very much appreciate the Brunswick Rotary Clubs thoughtfulness and hard work."

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Brunswick Rotary Builds Swing Set for Homeless Children Michael Sfirri 0

Rotarians on the Mall

Posted by Michael Sfirri
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Brunswick Rotarians spent a delightful Thursday morning on April 26 spreading mulch on the Brunswick Mall,
sprucing up the appearance of the centerpiece of our town.
Rotarians on the Mall Michael Sfirri 0

Holbrook Wharf Recognition

Posted by Michael Sfirri
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Saturday, June 11 marked the dedication of the Rotary Club of Brunswick's plaque recognizing Holbrook Wharf as a unique and historical location in the MidCoast of Maine. The Brunswick Pride Committee of the Rotary Club have been identifying and recognizing those places that make our Midcoast area special and unique since 2000, and this is the 10th location to be so honored. In the photo, President Sue Chadima (left) endures the rain during the dedication ceremonies.

Holbrook Wharf Recognition Michael Sfirri 0

BBBS Golf

Posted by Michael Sfirri
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Brunswick Rotarians Connie Hartley and Carol Taylor enjoy a moment at the 19th hole of the Big Brother Big Sister golf tournament this summer.
BBBS Golf Michael Sfirri 0

Brunswick Recognition Award 2

Posted by Michael Sfirri
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Lauren Kennedy and Stacia Brezinski, both seniors at Brunswick High School were honored recently by the Brunswick Rotary, for their "diligence and persistence in community service". Rotary Club representative Valerie Campbell noted that both students exemplify Rotary's commitment to service above self.
 
Brezinski was described by her guidance counselor Mike Halmo a great choice for this recognition. She is involved in the Youth Advocacy Group, Gay Straight ALliance, The Theatre project, Midcoast Chapter of the American Red Cross, to name a few.
 
Kennedy is also exemplary in her community involvement.  She volunteers at Mid Coast Hospital, the Coastal Humane Society, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, and Curtis Memorial LIbrary, and has spent countless hours working as a mentor for a an underpriveleged youth.
 
Both Students were also selected as one of 40 students to train with the Center for Preventing Hate.  As student leaders their role is to  raise awareness on how to prevent hate and violence in their school and community.
Brunswick Recognition Award 2 Michael Sfirri 0

Brunswick Rotary Recognition Awards

Posted by Michael Sfirri
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Ashley Dufresne and Matt Stasinowsky, both seniors at Region Ten Technical High School, were recognized at Brunswick Rotary for their diligence and persistence in community service.  Valerie Campbell, shown with Dufresne and Stasinowsky, noted that both students exemplify Rotary's commitment to service above self.

Ashley Dufresne of Brunswick High School and Matt Stasinowsky from Freeport High School both find time in busy high school and work schedules to volunteer in their communities.  Dufresne, a student in the Region Ten Marketing program, volunteers at school flu clinics, has chaperoned a field trip to Boston for students with special needs, and is currently organizing a school fund raiser for Make-A-Wish foundation.  "When I see that smile on a kid's face," she explained, "that makes it all worthwhile." 

Stasinowsky studies Firefighting at Region Ten.  He recently earned firefighter status as a volunteer with the Pownal Fire Department and also helps with fundraising with the Pownal Fire Company.  Sundays, he helps clean stalls and care for horses at a local horse rescue farm. Both students plan to go on to college, Dufresne in medicine and Stasinowsky in education.  Valerie Campbell, Brunswick Rotary's Student Recognition Coordinator, awarded Dufresne and Stasinowsky with plaques recognizing their commitment to community service.

Brunswick Rotary Recognition Awards Michael Sfirri 0
Emily Marsh Speaks at Rotary Michael Sfirri 0
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