Stories

“Dinner for 2 - Anywhere in the World,” a Bristol Rotary fundraiser for Bristol Food Banks, raises $29,500

All proceeds from the fundraiser went directly to support our local food pantries - East Bay Food Pantry and Thrift Shop and Friends of St Elizabeth Food Pantry. These food pantries have served individuals and families in need in our community, offering groceries at no cost to community members who require assistance. As Rotary provided funds during Covid, the need continued, as many school lunch programs continue to be affected by budget cuts and more needs arose.

Seeing the continuing and growing need of these outstanding Food Banks, Bristol Rotary created a Sweepstakes, that with the purchase of a $25 ticket, the winner would get a dinner for two anywhere in the world, including flight tickets and lodging at the hotel of their choice. The total value of the prize would be $10,000. Over 1,000 people participated, and on November 17, the winner was selected from a drum containing the names of all the participants.

The winner was Linda Medeiros from Portsmouth, RI who is currently planning her trip which we will share with you when a decision is made. However, the sweepstakes raised $19,500, to which Bristol Rotary donated another $10,000 for a total of $29,500. As seen in the picture below, $14,750 each was presented by Mary Jo Tavares, President of Bristol Rotary (center), to Amy Castro, President of the Friends of St. Elizabeth Food Pantry (left) and Emily Mushen, Executive Director of the East Bay Food Pantry and Thrift Shop (right).

All parties were thrilled with the results and thanks goes to all members of the community and of Bristol Rotary who made this possible.

“Help us Help Others”

Rotary Club of Bristol Announces Winner of “Dinner for 2 – Anywhere in the World” Fundraiser

**Bristol, RI** – November 18, 2024 – The Rotary Club of Bristol, Rhode Island, is thrilled to announce the incredible success of its “Dinner for 2 – Anywhere in the World” fundraiser! The fundraiser, launched in August, offered for $25 a ticket, dinner for 2 anywhere in the world for an upper limit of $10,000. The much-anticipated winner was drawn Sunday, November 17th during a celebratory event at the historic Linden Place in downtown Bristol.

In the presence of community members, representatives from the East Bay Food Pantry, Friends of Saint Elizabeth’s, and Rotarians, the atmosphere was electric as Rotary President Mary Jo Tavares expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of this campaign. Tickets raised $19,500, to which Bristol Rotary matched with $10,000 for a total of $29,500. Proceeds from this fundraiser will directly support the East Bay Food Pantry and Friends of Saint Elizabeth’s, helping to fight food insecurity and provide vital assistance to those in need. Each pantry will be getting $14,750.

“This fundraiser could not have been possible without the dedication and teamwork of so many people,” said Tavares. “From those who purchased tickets to the incredible volunteers who helped spread the word, this was truly a community effort. Together, we’ve made a

difference.”

The winner of the “Dinner for 2 – Anywhere in the World” is **Linda Medeiros from Portsmouth, Rhode Island, who purchased her lucky ticket from Bristol’s own Ryan Fonseca. Congratulations, Linda—get ready for the trip and dining experience of a lifetime!

Bristol Rotary Club was founded in 1929 and is a member of Rotary International which has over 34,000 clubs worldwide with over 1,200,000 members. Each club serves a community like Bristol and generally is made up of many of the businesses and professionals of the town. Bristol Rotary has been donating to the charitable needs of this community every year to over 20 local organizations serving the community. The Club raised funds from many donors and through fundraisers. Last year, the Club distributed over $100,00 to local charities in need, which is why are motto is “Help Us Help others.

Ian McClellan joins Bristol Rotary

Ian McLellan owns Hill House Graphics, in Bristol, RI. After running a commercial printing company for a decade, Ian started and has been running Hill House Graphics to Help Small Businesses and Organizations make a Big Impression with design and production of Commercial Signs, Vehicle Wraps and Graphics for more than 15 years. Ian is supported in all things by his partner, Tina and they have raised two adult children who are currently both in college full time. One at URI majoring in Pharmacy, and one at Rhode Island College with a double major in Business and History. This past January, Tina a career nurse, donated a kidney to Ian and truly gave him the gift of life after he suffered from kidney failure in 2017 and had been on hemodialysis from then until the successful transplant surgery. With this new lease on life Ian knows that future possibilities are boundless. Ian believes that you get out of life in direct proportion to what you give. He brings that philosophy with him to Bristol Rotary. Welcome aboard Ian!

Picture below: Ian - on the left, his sponsor Doug Gablinske – center, and President Mary Jo Tavares - right.

The Autism Project

On September 18, our Speaker was Joanne Quinn, the Executive Director of The Autism Project, who’s primary function is to provide information, education and support to parents, education professionals, and now the workforce on how to successfully engage with individuals with an autism spectrum disorder. Bristol Rotary has been a consistent supporter of The Autism Project as they work to improve the lives of autistic people. Autism now affects 1 in 35 births in this country, with no known cause, and whose impact is accelerating world-wide.

Chuck MacDonough joins Bristol Rotary

On September 18, Charles "Chuck" MacDonough was sworn in as the newest member of our Rotary club. Chuck works at George Mason University - RPRC in Research and Development. He is an active member of the Bristol Fourth of July Committee for over 15 years and served as their past Chair and Vice Chair. He also serves on the Capital Project Commission and is a regular moderator at the polls. He will be an excellent addition to our club and brings many talents, skills and is a "tech guy", whose experience that will enhance our club's efforts. He resides in Bristol. Maria Cesario is his sponsor.

Below: Chuck is on the left; Maria is next to Chuck; and President Mary Jo Tavares is in the foreground.

Bristol Rotary donates a Computer Lab to Franklin Court Independent Living

To assist the residents of Franklin Court Independent living to have access to today’s technology, Bristol Rotary donated funds to purchase two computers and a printer. The residents will be able to contact their family and friends; access their banks, medical portals, social security sites; and explore and enjoy many other things that are now available on-line.

In the picture below, Mary Jo Tavares, President of Bristol Rotary (standing), is attending the opening of the new Computer Lab with resident Genevieve Drummond at Franklin Court Independent Living.

Two new members join Bristol Rotary Club, Vicki Boyle and Jennifer Little

In the picture below, President Mary Jo Tavares is swearing in our two new members. From left to right: Vicki Boyle, Jennifer Little (professional name), and Maria Cesario (Jenn’s Sponsor) and Mary Almeida (Vicki’s sponsor).

Something more about Vicki and Jenn:

Virginia "Vicki" Boyle was the Chair of the Arts and Applied Arts Departments at Mt. Hope High School. She retired after a 40-year teaching career that included New Bedford High School. She was recently appointed Program Director for the Community String Project in Bristol, where she also directs the Adult Guitar Ensembles. Vicki Resides in Bristol.

Jennifer "Jenn Little" Graney Sebolt is a marketing social media professional. She is the owner and digital creator of Jenn Little Media. She is a member of the East Bay Chamber and the Bristol Fourth of July Committee. She resides in Bristol.

Welcome to Bristol Rotary. We are sure they will both make major contributions to our Club’s success.

A Thanks for Bristol Rotary's Support

Bristol Rotary's New President & Board for Fiscal Year 2024/2025

After a year when Bristol Rotary broke new records in donations to local charities and in increasing our membership by 25%, Paul LaFleur steps down and Mary Jo Tavares steps in as the new President for Fiscal Year 2024/2025. Paul volunteered to be President for the past 2 fiscal years, as we were coming out of the difficult Covid slump, and lead the successful return of Bristol Rotary.

In the collage below, at the top, Mary Jo has been inducted as President by Betty Galligan the Assistant District Governor of District# 7950. In the middle picture, the new Board for fiscal Year 2024/2025 is sworn in. Left to right is: Mary Almeida, Cesar DaPonte, Maria Cesario, Cid Rodrigues, Marty Roussel, Sandra Andrade, Mary Jo Tavares (new President), Bruce Cox (future President), Paul LaFleur (past President), and Ken Watkinson.

In the pictures at the bottom, two members receive the prestigious Paul Harris Fellow Award which is awarded in Rotary to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the Club. They were awarded by Paul LaFleur to Maria Cesario on the lower left and Marty Roussel on the lower right. Maria for excellent financial management of the funds in the Charities Foundation, and Marty for his consistent outstanding leadership and contributions to Bristol Rotary over the past 41 years.

DECA Team Thanks Bristol Rotary

Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) is a high school and college program for students interested in business, as emerging careers in: marketing, finance, hospitality and management. This year Mt. Hope HS had 41 students compete in the State of RI Competition. Of those, 9 placed first or second in their event which qualified them for the International Career Development Conference (ICDC), which this year was held in Aneheim, CA.

With donations from Bristol Rotary to help them get to California, those 9 competed alongside 23,000 students from all over the world. 6 reached “competency” in their respective events. Competency is a high level of performance in a given event category. The 5 students shown below all reached a level of competency in their chosen events. They came to last week’s Bristol Rotary Meeting, not only thank Rotary for their support, but also to talk about their experience. They were poised, confident and articulate, and demonstrated why they are winners.

Picture below, left to right: Michael Almeida Co-Advisor, Arden Wilkes, Bridget Williams, Sydney Dichiappari, Ella Quesnelle, Olivia Labonte

Johnathan Birs joins Bristol Rotary – again!

Johnathan Birs was a Bristol Rotarian from 1995 to 1997 until he moved out of the area. With his company office now in the Bell Tower Plaza, practically walking distance to DeWolf’s, he has come back to us. John is President and owner of Capital City Financial Corporation and the sister company Bristol County Consultants. The former company is becoming the premiere Mortgage broker in Rhode Island, while the latter company provides strategic tax planning and preparation of tax returns for both personal and corporate clients, currently numbering over 800.

John Birs has been a Mortgage Consultant since 1994. He is a 1983 graduate of the University of Massachusetts Amherst with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics. John is a member of the Rhode Island Mortgage Bankers Association, served as President of the Board of Directors for the East Providence Chamber of Commerce, is a member of the Blithewold, Garden & Arboretum’s Board of Directors, and a member of its Finance Committee.

John has been happily married for over 26 years and has two beautiful daughters.

John, we’re delighted to have you back!

Bristol Rotary's Support for the Food4Kids Program

At the East Bay Food Pantry and Thrift Shop (EBFP), the Food4Kids (F4K) began as a program to supplement meals for families with school-age children when schools are not in session (weekends, vacations, holidays). There was a significant increase in the use of the program following the expiration of COVID-era SNAP benefits in March 2023 (which came after the end of free school meals for all, in Spring 2022). The number of visits has remained high throughout 2023 (650 kids) and higher into 2024 (450 kids, so far through March). They receive shelf-stable items, and they also can pick up milk, eggs, yogurt, cheese, and fresh fruit to help keep their kids nourished and healthy.

Inflation over the past couple years, coupled with increases in visits to EBFP and F4K, has resulted in a significant increase in cost to run these programs – currently F4K program costs $2,900 per month. The Food4Kids budget has more than doubled since 2021, making reliable support even more crucial to ensure that this essential program continues. “Bristol Rotary is such a valued partner in our community. We are grateful for your consistent support”, said Emily Mushen, Executive Director of EBFP, speaking at the Rotary Meeting on April 17.

Bristol Rotary is proud, once again, to help DECA at Mt. Hope High School reach the DECA International Competition in Anaheim, CA.

What Is DECA? Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) is a high school and college program for students interested in business, as emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management.

The Mt. Hope High School DECA club once again finds itself in the enviable position of having ten (10) students qualify for international competition! This year Mt. Hope had 41 students compete at the RI DECA Career Development Conference, that is up from 26 last year. Of those who competed, 11 placed in the top three of their events, with 10 students earning an invitation to compete this April at the DECA International Career Development Conference (ICDC) in Anaheim, California with over 20,000 U.S. and international students. Of the 10 students who qualified, ALL will be representing Mt Hope and RI DECA

“We were very grateful last year, not only for Bristol Rotary’s generous financial contribution to help students attend ICDC in Orlando FL, but also for your genuine support and interest in DECA and our students’ business education,” said Mike Almeida (Co-Advisor, MHHS). Bristol Rotary subsidized almost 25% of the total cost of the trip for the Mt. Hope DECA team to the DECA International Career Development Conference in Anaheim. See the team below, showing the DECA symbol.

Back Row L-R: Preston Brodd, Sabian Mihalos, Maria Cesario (Rotary Found,ation) Vania Qandeel, Arden Wilkes, Bridget Williams, Paul LaFleur (President, Bristol Rotary), and Michael Almeida (Program Director).. Front Row L-R: Sydney DiChiappari, Olivia Labonte, and Isabella Brando. Not shown: Ella Quesnelle.

Bristol Rotary has Bingo Fundraiser for Bristol Educational Grants

Last Thursday, Bristol Rotary ran its annual Bingo fundraiser to provide educational grants to support both college bound Bristol students graduating from Mt Hope High School and other private schools, as well as to Bristol students who will be attending Trade or Vocational schools. The fundraiser, at St. Elizabeth Parish Hall, was a success and well attended by almost 200 people. There was food, drinks and fun games other than Bingo. Through the entusiasm of the participants, and with some donations from other sources, the Bingo evening raised over $17,000 for Bristol Students.

Bristol Schools are encouraged to help their students apply for these grants. To do so, please send a note with name, address and cell # to “Bristol Rotary Educational Grant Committee, P.O. Box 469, Bristol RI 02809.” You will be then sent a form requesting more information on the nature of the Grant request.

Donations are also gratefully accepted. “Help Us Help Others”

Donation Requests

Donation Requests

Bristol Rotary Bingo Fundraiser

Please join us for our Bristol Rotary Club BINGO NIGHT

Thursday, MARCH 21, 2024...

To purchase or reserve tickets contact the members listed below

Bristol Rotary Bingo Fundraiser

Please join us for our Bristol Rotary Club BINGO NIGHT

Thursday, MARCH 21, 2024...

To purchase tickets contact the members listed below.

Warren Rensehausen, Bristol’s Director of Parks and Recreation joins Bristol Rotary

Warren has been in the recreation field for 38 years starting here in Bristol at the former YMCA, moving onto assistant director for the Bristol’s Parks & Recreation department. He then became Director of the West Warwick recreation department and the Fairhaven recreation department in nearby MA, returning to Bristol to take on the director’s role 2 years ago.

He has lived in Bristol all of his life and here with his wife of 27 years and their 4 Children. Warren has been community minded all of his adult life volunteering with King Phillip Little League, Bristol Youth Soccer the former Bristol Mustangs football, Bristol East Bay Fast Pitch softball league and The OLMC Catholic Athletic League athletic programs.

Warren (below left with President Paul LaFleur) is also an Active member in Bristol’s Knights of Columbus Council #379,the State Council of the Knights where he is a RI District Deputy and a member of the Patriotic Division of that order, where he currently serves as the Faithful Navigator of St Pius Assembly 1060 out of East Providence.

Mary Liz Oliveira

Please welcome to Mary E. Oliveira who joined Bristol Rotary recently. Mary is a former teacher of Portuguese and Spanish in Southern New England and teacher of the English language in Lyon, France, where she lived for two years. There, in Lyon she also worked as events coordinator for Advanced Computer Research Institute which employed multi-nationals. She speaks several languages and is an avid international traveler and student of history and world culture. Mary is a graduate of Southeastern Massachusetts University (now University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth) with post graduate studies in local universities, including Brown. She has also served in Public Relations for the fashion industry and written and produced for a designer, in various media outlets, fashion shoots and shows which included New York Fashion Week. Welcome, Mary. Below being inducted by her sponsor Mary Jo Tavares and President Paul LaFleur.

Dr. Mark Johnson Joins Bristol Rotary

In January 10, 2024 Dr. Mark Gregory Johnson joined the Bristol Rotary Club and Bristol Rotary was delighted to have a new member of his caliber.

Mark, grew up in Rocky River, a suburb of Cleveland Ohio, went to Duke University: 1970-1974 B.S. and to University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine 1974-1978 to get his M.D.

Subsequently he did his internship at the Hospital of St Raphael in New Haven where he did his residency in Diagnostic Radiology and a fellowship in Computed Tomography (CT) & Ultrasound (US).

He joined the Naugatuck Valley Radiology Associates and Saint Mary’s Hospital as a radiologist specializing in CT & US until retirement on September 1, 2019

He and his wife wife, Grace McLaurin Steere, M.D. fell in love with Bristol, Rhode Island and moved here in 2008. They have two daughters, Laurin in Boston, MA and Kristin in Charlotte, NC. Mark is also and active member of the First Congregational Church (FCC) in Bristol, RI.

Welcome to the Club, Mark!

Winter Gala 2023

Bristol Rotary's biggest fundraiser of the year was on December 9th, 2023, from 6pm to 10pm, at the Bristol Yacht Club. All proceeds went to Bristol Rotary's Charities. See the schedule of events below.

"Help Us Help Others"

Please scroll down to see the Live Auction items.

Bristol Rotary Raises Funds to Renovate a Girls Orphanage in San Miguel, Azores

On September 30^th, Bristol Rotary completed a 2-part fundraiser at the Bristol Sports Club to renovate the orphanage for girls of Casas de Acolhimento Residencial de Criancas e Jovens Nossa Senhora dos Anjos, in San Miguel. Working with the Rotary Club of San Miguel, our sister club, the fundraiser raised over $20,000: $10,000 from the event itself and another $10K matched by Bristol Rotary’s Charities Foundation. The funds were wired after the event and the renovation has already begun. Congratulations to all who participated.

The “Fado Night” fundraiser was a great success not only for the financial results but for the outstanding concert and singing of Sonia Bettancourt, seen below.

Fundraiser for the East Bay Food Pantry

The East Bay Food Pantry (EBFP) has helped residents of Bristol, Newport and Providence County to reduce hunger and increase nutrition since 2009 – particularly through the Covid years. On October 22, 2023, the EBFP has planned a fundraiser at the Bristol Yacht Club called “Uncorked 2023” with a goal of raising $10,000. EBFP is offering 3 levels of sponsorship: Platinum for $2,000, Gold for $1,000 and Silver for $1,000.

Bristol Rotary has been a consistent donor to the EBFP, having donated almost $15,000 since 2020. We are proud to have become a Platinum Sponsor.

Below is Emily Mushen Executive Director of the EBFP, receiving a check for $2,000 from Martin Roussel, Former President of Bristol Rotary and Member of the Board of Directors.

Bristol Rotary Donates to Maui Fires Relief Fund

Bristol Rotary along with Rotary Clubs around the country met the call of the Hawaiian Rotary Club to donate to the Maui Fires Relief Fund. The strength of Rotary Clubs is being able to come together and have a measurable impact on people in need in a tragedy like in Lahaina, Maui.

Fado Night for the Orphanage in Azores

Fado Night:

Thank you for your support!

Help Us Help Others

Bristol Parks and Recreation

Our speaker at our lunch meeting on August 2 was Warren Rensehausen (below), Director of Bristol Parks and Recreation. Warren thanked the Club for our $900 donation to their summer camp program, covering the cost of three additional children. He spoke about the many improvements to the Rec. Dept., including six pickle ball courts, renovations to the playgrounds including Rockwell Park, Bristol Marina, Town Beach and Fatima Drive. He is looking at designs for a Town Beach performance stage, which will be open for concerts, as well as a drop-down movie screen for outdoor movies, with that beautiful background. They also plan to put in a 30x60 Splash Pad - sprinklers that come up from the ground. The Rec. Dept. also offers many programs, like volleyball, Maritime Center for indoor activities, bowling at Dudek on Thursdays, Tech Talk and much more. As a life-long Bristolian, Warren is dedicated doing great things for Bristol Parks and Recreation.

Bristol Police Chief Kevin Lynch joins Bristol Rotary

On August 2, 2023, Bristol Rotary was extremely proud to have had Chief Kevin Lynch become a member of Bristol Rotary.

Chief Lynch has led a distinguished 35-year career in law enforcement and public service across police departments and state agencies in Rhode Island. Chief Lynch has served as Chief of the Bristol Police Department since 2019, and previously served as Commander of the Cranston Police Department and Deputy Administrator of the Public Utilities Commission for the State of Rhode Island. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Roger Williams University’s Criminal Justice program, which is ranked among the top 10 percent criminal justice programs in the country, and teaches in the Criminal Justice program and Policing, Public Safety and Security program at RWU’s University College.

Paul LaFleur, Bristol Rotary President, said, “Chief Lynch is no stranger to community service which is the primary function of Bristol Rotary and Rotary Clubs around the world. We welcome his advice, counsel and participation.”

Below, Bristol Rotary Board Member and Treasurer, Cidalia Rodrigues (left) who inducted Chief Lynch (right) into Bristol Rotary.

Bristol Rotary Supports BWTB5B’s Parenting, Education and Support programs

“The Bristol Warren Thrive by Five and Beyond (BWTB5B) is a group of 20 social service and educational agencies, faith organizations and individuals that serve families in Bristol and Warren. Since 2013, we have been meeting monthly to share information about our programs to better serve our families. We also run Parenting Workshops, Professional Development programs and Community Presentations such as the 2022 RI Kids Count Data in Your Backyard Event, at which over 50 community members came together to hear data about the needs of families in our community. In past years, we held six large resource fairs for the community, sharing resources and entertainment for approximately 800 people. This year we are pivoting to join other events to give us time to focus our attention on addressing issues and needs that arose from the Data in Your Backyard event. Our areas of focus are: Increasing Student Attendance in Preschool to Grade 3, Supporting the Mental Health and Wellness of all Children and Promoting Proactive Early Childhood Programs. To enable us to host some of these events and projects related to the areas of focus, we have been asking our donors to help support our work. Bristol Rotary's Charities Foundation has donated $2,300 to help pay for workshops, website work and toolkits for schools. We thank Bristol Rotary for their support and look forward to working with them and our other generous donors.”

Below on the left, Emily Pearce-Spence, & far right, Donna Ramos Razza (BWTB5B); center Elizabeth Habecker (Bristol Rotary).

Bristol Rotary Board 2023/2024

At our July 12th meeting, the new Board for the Bristol Rotary Club was sworn in. The members of the Board, left to right, are: Maria Cesario, Elizabeth Habecker, Cidalia Rodrigues, Angela Cabral, Paul LaFleur (President), Mary Jo Fidalgo-Tavares, Jacques de Labry, Marty Roussel, Sandra Andrade, and Bruce Cox. Their titles and roles can be found on the Bristol Rotary website on the right side of the page - "bristolrotaryclub.com."

Paul Harris Award Winners

At our first meeting of the new fiscal year, three members of Bristol Rotary received the prestigious Paul Harris Award for continuous and exceptional contributions to Bristol Rotary Club over the years. They are (left to right): Mary Jo Fidalgo-Tavares presenting the awards (future President) and Elizabeth Habecker (past President); then Mary Jo and Angela Cabral (past President); and finally Paul LaFleur (current President) and Mary Jo. Congratulations to all three.

Education Support from Bristol Rotary

Annually, Bristol Rotary donates financial awards to selected outstanding and deserving students from schools in our community. Below, is Bristol Rotary Board member Cidalia Rodrigues giving those awards to two outstanding high school graduates: Marina Abrev on the left, and Shivani Mehta on the right. Marina is a graduate of Saint Mary Academy - Bayview. Marina is planning to go to the Fordham University in NY in the Fall to study Brain and Cognitive Sciences, and Communications. While Shivani will attend Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta. Shivani will major in Neuroscience. Both women have excellent academic records, have been leaders in their respective schools, and have helped their communities. We wish them good fortune in their chosen fields. Well done!

Bristol Rotary plugs the gap for Recreation Summer Program

A message from Director of Parks and Recreation for the Town of Bristol, Warren Rensehausen (below left), noted that the Summer Camp registration has increased to close to 450 children this year, up 10%. The Program runs from June 21 to August 4^th. The fee for the Summer Program ($300 per child) includes a T shirt, bussing from 5 locations, if needed, and lunch daily. In addition, the Program offers scholarships for families who would have difficulty paying the $300 fee. They were able to cover 15 families through grants and donations, but 3 more families came forward asking for help that the Program could not cover. Bristol Rotary offered to help and donated the last $900 needed to provide for everyone. Let’s give all our kids a great summer.

Below, left to right is Director, Rensehausen, Assistant Director, Tim Shaw, Bruce Cox, President of the Bristol Rotary’s Charities Foundation, and Mary Jo Fidalgo-Tavares, President-Elect of the Bristol Rotary Club for the upcoming 2024 year.

M25:35 Ministry

At our meeting on June 21, our speaker was Chuck Anastasia (below). Chuck is a volunteer leader of the M25:35 Ministry at St. Mary of the Bay Church in Warren. M25:35 refers to Matthew chapter 25, verse 35, "I was a stranger and you welcomed me." Chuck talked about his experience working with the Diocese of Providence and DORCAS International assisting refugees and immigrants settling in Rhode Island. Over the past year, the M25:35 Ministry furnished apartments with donated furniture, housewares, linens, and clothes for six families arriving from Democratic Republic of Congo, Myanmar, Sudan, Syria, and Venezuela. M25:35 also provided assistance for Ukrainian refugee families and arranged volunteer drivers for refugee's medical appointments. M25:35 seeks to ease the burdens of those who—often having suffered from war, oppression, poverty and political turmoil—come to the United States in search of the opportunity to live in peace, safety and freedom. Bristol Rotary was pleased to donate to M25:35 and to support their magnanimous work.

King Philip Little League Sounds Great

King Philip Little League (KPLL) was founded in 1952 and believes in the power of youth baseball and softball, to teach life lessons that build stronger individuals and communities. We should all be proud of their achievements and the hard work that their volunteers have put in for the league’s success.

The KPLL are in the beginning of their playoff season and then will immediately jump into their all-star season. During these games, numerous baseball families and fans from around the State will be in attendance. But to have the best season, the KPLL needs an upgrade to their sound system. Having an upgraded sound system will allow them to make clear announcements of the action on the field, help in fundraising efforts, and announce awards – so that the spectators can be part of the action.

In the picture, below (left) President Paul LaFleur of Bristol Rotary is presenting a donation of $1,400 to KPLL volunteer Jennifer Mello (center) for the improved sound system. On her left, is Bristol Rotarian Ken Watkinson. Have a great season KPLL!

New Member Glenn Donovan

We are happy to welcome Glenn Donovan as a new member of Bristol Rotary. Below Glenn is congratulated by Paul LaFleur, President of Bristol Rotary.

Glenn Donovan is a retired Radiation Safety Technologist serving 37 years at Lifespan Hospitals. He also taught in their Nuclear Medicine and X Ray Technology schools. He is currently volunteering as a court appointed child advocate and a long-term care ombudsman. Glenn also serves on the Bristol Conservation Commission. He is also the husband of another Bristol Rotarian, Susan Donovan, State Representative Bristol/Prudence Island District 69, Chair of the Health and Human Services Committee.

Welcome aboard, Glenn

Bristol Rotary helps the DECA team from Mt. Hope school compete nationally

DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America) is an association of marketing students that encourages the development of business and leadership skills through academic conferences and competitions. This school year, at Mt Hope High School, we had 26 students compete at the RI DECA Career Development Conference. Of those, 17 placed in the top three of their events with 11 students earning an invitation to compete this April at the DECA International Career Development Conference (ICDC) in Orlando Florida with over 18,000 students. Of the 11 students who qualified, 8 represented RI DECA and competed at the Conference. This is an incredible achievement and the students have worked very hard to attain their goals.

Below are the 8 students who competed. Rear Center, is Maureen Gauthier DECA Advisor for Mt. Hope. To her left is Paul LaFleur, President of Bristol Rotary who delivered Bristol Rotary’s donation to help the team get to Orlando, and far left is Christina Vieira, Bristol Rotarian assisting Paul, who participated in DECA when she was at Mt. Hope as a student.

Bristol Rotary's April Giving Program

This year, due to our generous donors, (who have responded to our motto “Help Us Help Others”), Bristol Rotary donated over $40,000 to a variety of charities that help our community. That also includes charities that are helping Ukrainian refugees resettle here - like Dorcas International and the 2^nd Baptist Ukrainian Church. The latter, not only helps refugees from the current conflict but also from the takeover of Crimea in 2014.

Bristol Rotary not only makes donations during the year, but sets aside a Board Meeting in April as our April Giving event - using funds donated to Bristol Rotary from a variety of fundraisers for that purpose.

In the pictures below, one or more Bristol Rotarian is bringing a donation to the representatives of the charity or project. There are some familiar names, but this year we have emphasized several school projects. Due to a shortfall in funds, we donated to supplement the budgets for Art programs at Guiteras, Colt Andrews and Rockwell schools. In addition, we contributed to the DECA program at Mt. Hope HS, the Kickemuit Science Olympiad and, a student competition established by MADD. In the center, is a list of other donations made this year. It includes organizations that help both young and old, mentally challenged or physically challenged by war or relationships, music and art. And, thanks to one Rotarian couple, we even managed to send an ambulance, full of medical supplies and winter clothing, to Ukraine!

It's been a very good year – help us help others - next year.

Bristol Rotary donates to the Science Team of KMS

The KMS Science Team gets a few miles down the road with help from Bristol Rotary

Kerri Krawczyk (front left), the veteran Science Olympiad coach at the Kickemuit School, recently led her team to a spot in the 39thScience Olympiad National Tournament which will take place on May 19 and 20^th. As reported in last week’s Bristol Phoenix, the team is looking for donations to transport the team and parents to Wichita State University, at a cost of approximately $20 to $30 thousand dollars.

Below Paul LaFleur (front right), President of Bristol Rotary, contributes to the ride with a check from Bristol Rotary for $4,000 and encourages other businesses and local organization to help grease the wheels. “We are all proud of these outstanding local students!”

Bristol Rotary among the top donors to The Autism Project at Imagine Walk

Sunday, April 30, The Imagine Walk fundraiser, which has been run annually by The Autism Project of Johnston, RI came to Goddard Memorial Park. The Imagine Walk contributes to The Autism Project ‘s mission to “support children to young adults with autism, their families and the many professionals who work to support them. They touch more than 7,500 people each year through their direct programming, training, outreach, and parent consultants.

The Autism Project is a ‘Hub of Hope’ that supports autistic people, their families and caregivers, community members, and educators to build a more neuro-inclusive community for all to be successful. A world where individuals with an autism spectrum disorder are valued participating members of their communities.”

Bristol Rotary raised funds in 2015 – 2016 to bring The Autism Project to the East Bay to provide closer support to the over 2,000 families in the East Bay affected by autism spectrum disorders. Support is still critical, as the rate of children born with autism has grown from 1 in 68 in 2016, to 1 in 36 today – per the CDC.

Below center left is Joanne Quinn Executive Director of The Autism Project, center right is Bruce Cox, President of Bristol Rotary’s Charities Foundation. Also, Bristol Rotary Board Members, left Maria Cesario and right Jacques de Labry.

Bristol Rotarians helping to save lives in Ukraine

Ken Watkinson, from Bristol Rotary, working with Tom Carroll, President of Paramedic Systems & Alert Ambulance, managed to donate an Ambulance to be sent to Ukraine through the unique channel of the Second Baptist Ukrainian Church. The Second Baptist Church through donations, have already sent four large containers to the Ukraine. Bristol Rotarians, Ken & Mary Watkinson, with help from the Bristol Rotary Club, have managed to bring 50 truckloads of supplies for the soldiers and civilians: such as PPE defibrillator, heart monitors, winter jackets, hygiene bags, and warm clothes to the church. The Church in turn packages the goods in containers and sends them to Ukraine.

Alert Ambulance is donating the ambulance and all the necessary equipment inside. Life of an ambulance in the Ukraine is 60 days. This ambulance will be brought over to the Ukraine via container. Once there, it will be painted in camouflage and will go right into the battlefield to help the wounded. Soldiers are transported from the war zone via pickup truck then they will be placed into the ambulance and brought to the hospital.

The Bristol Rotary also donated $1000 which will go toward obtaining wound VAC kits to be placed in the ambulance. Vacuum-Assisted Closure kits (VAC) assists in the closure of wounds, a type of therapy to help wounds heal faster.

Below, is Ken and Mary Watkinson (center) delivering the check to Slavik Krishchuk (right) Mission Director for the Second Baptist Church, and his brother Leonid Krishchuk (left), Pastor of the New Life Church in Lutsk, Ukraine.

4 new Members join Bristol Rotary

Bristol Rotary is growing! Four new members joined Rotary at the luncheon on March 22, in addition to Chef Sai of DeWolf at the last meeting. Below from left to right are Cesar DaPonte (of Northwest Boats & CC Marine in Bristol ) and his sponsor Maria Cesario, Christina Vieira (Commercial Lines Account Manager of John Andrade Insurance) and her sponsor President Paul LaFleur, Hannah Araujo (Owner of Victoria Flowers) and her sponsor Lisa James, and Dawn Jenkin (Director of Rogers Free Library) and her sponsor Marie Knapman. All new members will make a significant contribution to Bristol Rotary and the community. They will "Help us Help Others."

Active Shooter Threat - Bristol

Chief of Bristol Police Kevin Lynch (left) and Lieutenant Stephen St. Pierre brought a timely and important story to Bristol Rotary Meeting of how to prepare and deal with an active threat to your business, school, property or home. The Chief emphasized that Bristol was named, not only the safest town in Rhode Island, but also the safest University town. However, that doesn't mean that, in this day and age, we should not be better prepared to deal with threats to our well being. Lieut. St. Pierre presented a detailed PowerPoint video reviewing all the stages of such an attack, beginning with being always aware and watchful of your surroundings and people coming into your establishment; how to deal with the threat when it happens (run, hide and fight as the last resort); to how to help the wounded when the police have eliminated the threat. This is an important presentation that should be seen throughout Bristol. Bristol Rotary is making it available to you on this website by clicking below. It will download the presentation on your computer to be watched on your time schedule. Pass it on to your friends and family. Thanks Chief and Lieut. St. Pierre for keeping us safe!

Click here to download the PowerPoint presentation which you can view on your computer.

Ukraine Support Goes Local

Rotary International initiated a program asking all Rotary Clubs to offer financial support to Ukraine early in the invasion by having Rotary Clubs all over the U.S. and other countries contribute to Rotary's Disaster Relief Fund. This fund was to be dedicated to Ukraine and and sent to Rotary Clubs in-country as well as in neighboring countries. Bristol Rotary's members donated over $3,000 at the time. Bristol Rotary wanting to continue the support as more and more refugees were sent to our area, teamed up with Dorcas International, a local 501(c)(3), dedicated to helping and integrating Ukrainian families locally. Through a fundraiser, Bristol Rotary was able to contribute to Dorcas for their immediate needs. See near the top of the picture, Paul La Fleur giving a check to Dorcas representatives, the first of checks totaling $5,000. But, that was the beginning, throughout 2022 Bristol Rotary focused on local help to Ukrainians, not only those families arriving during the current conflict, but also those left homeless during the first Russian invasion of Crimea in 2014. Both groups of refugees still had families left behind and were eager to help them too. Working with the local 2nd Baptist Ukrainian Church, Bristol Rotary led by Ken and Mary Watkinson, Bristol Rotarians, and supported by the Club and other Bristol donors, have collected, packaged, and delivered to the Church over 45 truckloads of medical equipment, hygiene kits, warm clothing, bedding, winter coats and other vital items. The value of these contributions are in the tens of thousands. These were processed at the church and distributed to the refugee families with the remainder sent to their families and friends in Ukraine. These shipments in containers were also paid for by donations from many other supporters including Bristol Rotary. The containers make their way into Ukraine by special underground routes using air, trains and trucks. This local support to our local congregation of Ukrainians will continue to be one of Bristol Rotary's charitable projects for "as long as it takes."

Lynn Smith, Linden Place Historian

At our Bristol Rotary lunch, Lynn Smith (Linden Place Historian) treated us to a fascinating lecture on the history of Bristol, both the ugly slave trade business of the DeWolf family as well as several stories of the almost 600 enslaved people in Bristol, from it's founding in 1670 to 1808, when the slave trade was officially outlawed. This included Indigenous People who were also enslaved. Linden Place has been reexamining its history as part of the Rhode Island Slave History Medallion Project. They will be sharing the stories that have been uncovered about the house, its inhabitants, and most importantly the enslaved and free black people connected with Linden Place and our community. As part of this project, one goal is to create a safe space at Linden Place to discuss this difficult topic. Lynn had so much to share that she will be invited again to speak at a future meeting. This is not a lecture to miss. Come join us.

Sai Viswanath

Sai Viswanath, Owner and Executive Chef , of DeWolf Tavern at 259 Thames St, in Bristol, has joined Bristol Rotary as an active member. Sai has hosted Bristol Rotary lunch meetings for the past ten years and was very supportive of Rotary during the Covid years, as we were both challenged to keep going. By joining Bristol Rotary, Sai wants to participate in the charitable support of our community, which is the mission of Bristol Rotary, as a way of paying back the community that made DeWolf Tavern so successful. Below Sai (center) is being sworn in by Paul LaFleur, President (left) and supported by his sponsor, Jacques de Labry.

Bristol Rotary Club BINGO NIGHT

Please join us for our Bristol Rotary Club BINGO NIGHT MARCH 29, 2023...

To purchase tickets contact the members listed below.

Or, send an email to jdelabry@gmail.com to reserve ticket(s).
Please indicate how many tickets you would like.

East Bay Food Pantry

The new Executive Director of the East Bay Food Pantry (EBFP), Emily Mushen, briefed us on the impact the EBFP has had in the East Bay during this transition year of 2022. She reiterated their mission to "engage, educate, and empower the East Bay in creating a hunger-free community." She thanked Bristol Rotary for our continued financial support not only last year, with the Food for Kids program, but for our donations at the height of the pandemic, when food insecurity was at its most challenging. See below Emily's further comments and EBFP's incredible performance through out last year.

Bristol Rotary Supports Art Programs in Elementary Schools

Due to budget cuts, Bristol Rotary donated $1,000 each to the three elementary schools in Bristol to restore more fully their art programs. Below, Paul LaFleur presents a check to the school to support the art teacher's program: center picture is Rockwell School, teacher Sarah Jacobs; upper left is Guiteras School, also Sarah Jacobs; upper right Colt Andrews, teacher Lynne Ramos. See full story below.

Winter Gala Fundraiser

On December 3, Bristol Rotary held their annual fundraiser to fund donations to over 20 local charities that the Club supports every year. Fun was had by all and just as important, through the generosity of donors and participants, our goal was met and exceeded. Click on Read More to see how to apply for a donation.

Bristol Rotary’s Charitable Support for Ukraine

Above: President Paul (left), Steven Gallo, Operations Manager (center), Maksim Krishchuk (right), Ukrainian Response Coordinator, both of Dorcas International

At Wednesday’s lunch meeting (9/13/22), President Paul LaFleur handed a check to representatives of Dorcas International, a 501c3, who has launched a program to support Ukrainian refugees coming to Rhode Island with a variety of services to ease their relocation. Bristol Rotary has raised close to $8,000 through donations and fundraisers since April 2022 to help Ukraine and Ukrainians both here in RI or through Rotary Clubs in Ukraine and surrounding countries.

For more about information about what Dorcas International of Rhode Island is doing for Ukrainian refugees, click on Dorcas International on the left side of our website (bristolrotaryclub.com) under "Downloads." Or click here.

Bristol Rotary Country Western Night

[ Click here to buy tickets ]

Bristol Rotary's honors Chef Sai of DeWolf Tavern

Bristol Rotary has been having its luncheon meetings at DeWolf Tavern for over 10 years. Chef Sai Viswanath has made his restaurant welcoming and the home of Bristol Rotary all those years. And, the food is always excellent! The real test of this relationship was during the pandemic. Despite all the pressures that DeWolf and all the other restaurants faced during Covid, Chef Sai always accommodated Bristol Rotary and the changes we were forced to make. We both did what we could to help each other out. Here, Elisabeth Habecker, President of Bristol Rotary (fiscal year 2021/2022), offers our thanks the Chef Sai for his unfailing support and hospitality to the Club. On the right, Chef Sai counters with his thanks to Bristol Rotary - at the meeting where a new President, Paul LaFleur, is inducted for fiscal year 2022/2023.

Paul Lafleur becomes the President of Bristol Rotary

Paul LaFleur is sworn in as the new President of Bristol Rotary for the fiscal year 2022/2023 by Assistant District Governor, Betty Galligan, at the Rotary lunch at DeWolf Tavern. Paul has been a Rotarian for 25 years and has been President 3 times. On the right, is Elizabeth Habecker, former President of Bristol Rotary for fiscal year 2021/2022, and Betty Galligan and Paul. Lower Right, is John Andrade, President of John Andrade Insurance, who came to honor Paul's induction. John is not only Paul's boss but has been his mentor for decades. John Andrade has been a Rotarian for 59 years and was President of Bristol Rotary in 1965. Welcome Paul!

Joyce Watts - Global Outreach

Joyce Watts, the Director and inspiration for Global Outreach, spoke about their broad services for people in need. Global outreach and its partners are dedicated to putting this mission into action by providing a full range of charitable, human service, educational, religious and community development activities.

David Harrington Curator of Linden Place

David Harrington, curator of Linden Place, spoke at our Rotary lunch meeting of the evolution of Linden Place from being the home of prominant Bristolians to a center for charitable and artistic events in Bristol. The history of Bristol is embodied in the beautiful house which was the home of DeWolf's, Colt's and Ethel Barrymore, as well as the families and historical activities they represented.

Haiti's Child Update

Ken and Mary Watkinson updated us on the situation in Haiti and specifically on the children's school in La Mothe, with over 200 students, that they have been selflessly helping with medicines, clothing and financial support. Bristol Rotary has held several fundraisers in the past to help this cause as well. It is called Haiti's Child. In short, the situation in Haiti continues to be very dangerous with lawless gangs controlling the country and stealing or attacking any source of money or goods. The Watkinson's have suitcases full of medicines that have not been sent to Haiti for fear that they would be stolen. However, the support continues to be collected here while we continue to find new ways to get it to Haiti.

Haiti's Child Update

Maria Cesario

Maria Cesario joined Bristol Rotary and is being pinned by President Liz and her sponsor Mary Jo Fidalgo-Tavares. Maria recently retired from Textron where she was Senior Tax Accountant. She has now formed her own tax consulting company, called World Consultancy Services. Maria also continues to serve on the Bristol Fourth of July Committee as Correspondent Secretary. Welcome to Bristol Rotary, Maria.

The Autism Project

Our Speaker for our Bristol Rotary lunch on March 16 was Joanne Quinn, Executive Director of The Autism Project, which serves Rhode Island with support services for families with children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and other developmental disabilities. They also train teachers and professionals on methods and practices. In 2015 and 2016, Bristol Rotary teamed up with The Autism Project to fund and create The Autism Project - East Bay Support Center, to bring these services to the under-supported East Bay of Rhode Island. With participation from all the towns in Bristol County, the joint project raised the highest level of donations in Bristol Rotary's history. The Center was opened in September 2015.

Zach Rivers speaks to Bristol Rotary

Zach Rivers, is owner of Judge Roy Bean and he is the President of the Bristol Merchants Association (BMA). He explained that "BMA is an association of Bristol Merchants and organizations who enhance the business environment for the profitability of our members through mutual cooperation by common marketing advocacy, event hosting and sharing of best business practices." In addition, there was discussion of how BMA could help Bristol Rotary help the Community through collaboration on charitable projects.

Margueritte Heenehan joins Bristol Rotary

Margueritte Heenehan, volunteer administrator for many churches and support groups in the community, is being inducted into Bristol Rotary. Here she is being pinned by her sponsor Marilyn Mason, with President Liz Habecker in support.

New Chair of Bristol's 4th of July Celebration

Chuck MacDonough, the new General Chairman of Bristol's historic 4th of July Celebration, spoke to our Rotary lunch at the also historic DeWolf Tavern. Chuck reviewed the cost and complexities involved in putting on the Celebration. He also summarized the many fundraising activities to fund the over $400,000 cost of the event. Become a Sponsor at "fourthofjulybristolri.com".

Last Bristol Rotary meeting of the year with lots of giving!

At our last Bristol Rotary meeting of the year, we celebrated not only the Christmas to come but three fundraising projects we ran to help the community. First, our Local Food for Local Friends program, that over 5 months, distributed 525 meals from local restaurants to grateful seniors from the Senior Center and Franklin Court Independent Living. Second, our Bingo fundraiser at St. Elizabeth's Auditorium that hosted over 160 people who helped raise funds for financial grants (scholarships) for some of our High School graduating Seniors. Lastly, in early December, we distributed Food Gift Certificates for $70 each from Seabra Market to Benjamin Church Senior Center, the Ladies Auxiliary of the Bristol Fire Department, and Franklin Court Independent Living. These gifts will allow the recipients to buy the food they would prefer for Christmas. What ever may be left over from these projects will go to the food pantries in our area. Considering the kind of year we've had, we are grateful to have accomplished these projects before Christmas. If you'll notice on the right of the picture, not to be left out, everyone at the lunch brought gifts that we shared with each other.

Launching Bristol Rotary's annual Christmas Food Gift program, gift certificates for $70 are given for distribution to Maria Ursini and Donna Wilson of the Senior Center and Jennifer Mancieri of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Fire Dept.

President Liz, at our December 1 meeting, launched Bristol Rotary's annual Christmas Food Gift Program by giving envelopes each containing gift certificates from Seabra Market worth $70. They will be distributed to the needy in our community by the Benjamin Church Senior Center, the Ladies Auxiliary of the Bristol Fire Dept. and Franklin Court Independent Living. Shown in the first picture are Maria Ursini and Donna Wilson from the Senior Center, and in the second picture, Jennifer Mancieri from the Ladies Auxiliary. All donations to purchase the certificates were made by the members of the Bristol Rotary Club.

At our meeting, Mike Rielly, Bristol Town Crier and also the town's Santa Claus told us how much the enjoyed both roles. He is also humbled because forty years earlier, his grandfather James Rielly had fulfilled both roles for 18 years.

Barbara Palumbo thanked for her outstanding job running the Bingo Fundraiser for scholarships

On November 17th, Bristol Rotary ran a Bingo fundraiser to create financial grants (scholarships) for graduating Seniors in our community. Barbara Palumbo, a Bristol Rotarian, showed her experience and mastery at running the game. Here, President Liz Habecker thanks Barbara for making it not only a fun evening, but also a financially rewarding one.

Bingo Fundraiser to provide financial support to our High School graduates

Last night, Bristol Rotary held a Bingo Night, for almost 200 people, to raise money for educational grants for our graduating High School students. The evening was successful in providing a fun night for all who came and in raising funds to support our students. Barbara Palumbo masterfully ran the games while the rest of the Rotary team made sure everyone else was having fun - providing food, drink and other games of chance. We look forward to next year!

The Ladies Auxiliary of the Bristol Volunteer Fire Department

Our speaker this week was Jennifer Mancieri, President of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Bristol Volunteer Fire Dept. This group provides invaluable service to the victims of a fire disaster and to the firemen fighting it. Most significant is the support of the families who have survived such a disaster - by feeding and clothing them and helping to relocate them. In addition, they help the victims with the recovery process; as well as filling out insurance forms to initiate the recovery. They are a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Corporation and gratefully accept donations.

Bristol Rotary brings you Bingo Night

Bristol Rotary will host a bingo night on November 17, 2021 to raise money for educational Grants to be given to graduating local students. Come help us help them - and enjoy yourselves too! On-line, buy tickets at "bristoyrotaryclub.com/bingo"

Haiti - Good Work, Bad Situation

Glen Donavan a retired RN and Timmy Phongsamphanh a medical student and EMT (originally from Laos), spoke at the Rotary lunch about their involvement in helping a school in Haiti. The school called "The Land" is for 200 students in the city of La Mothe. They spoke and showed a movie of the team at the school where they had provided medical support, food, clothing and financial assistance to help them have a more survivable existence. The team also includes two Bristol Rotarians, Mary and Ken Watkinson. Glen also covered the tragedy that Haiti has become over the past few months.

District Governor Billy Roberts

The new District Governor, William (Billy) Roberts, came to visit Bristol Rotary and praised our accomplishments, our management and our processes. Billy is Governor of District 7950 which encompasses 65 Rotary Clubs throughout Southeast Massachusetts, Cape Cod, the islands and the State of Rhode Island. In total the District and it's Clubs have over 2,000 women and men working for their local communities with the guiding principle - "Service above Self."

Edward Carusi, Director of Social Services and Welfare for Bristol updates Rotary on the EDP Program

The Emergency Dialer Program (EDP) is a free service provided by the Town of Bristol for people who want the security of having a button to push to get Emergency Services to their home. It is run by Ed Carusi, Director of Social Services and Welfare and supported by outside donations primarily from Bristol Rotary. The device is installed, typically in the home of an aging or physically impaired person who would like to remain independent knowing that help can be on the way as soon as the button (which can be worn like a necklace) is pushed. EDP is installed and maintained regardless of the financial means of the client - free of charge. The battery backed up device is installed on a land line to insure that it works in a power failure. Many lives have been saved using EDP. Call Ed (401) 253-4831) to order one for you or a loved one, or to find out more.

President Liz meets with the Communications Committee

The Membership, Fellowship and Communications Committee is one of the two committees established at the beginning of President Liz's term. The other one being the Fundraising and Budget Committee. Great plans being generated by both.

Barbara Palumbo, speaks about drug overdoses during the pandemic at Bristol Rotary Meeting

Barbara Palumbo, Coordinator of the Bristol County Prevention Coalition, spoke about the effect of COVID 19 has had on substance abuse in Rhode Island. Drug overdoses increased over 2019 by 25% to 384 deaths in 2020. 3 out of 4 were males between the ages of 45 to 54. Fentanyl was the most OD drug used, but sales of alcohol went up by 55%.

2 guests at Bristol Concert series sponsored by Bristol Rotary

At the Michael Dimucci Concert on the Town Common, sponsored by Bristol Rotary are the one and only Joan Roth and President Liz.

Bristol Rotary Lunch Meeting - Aug. 4

Maria Cesario and Bruce Cox were the guest speakers. Maria, as a new member of Bristol Rotary, gave us her background since coming to the US in 1967 from the Azores, her distinguished business career, and her involvement in the 4th of July Committee's activities. Bruce Cox, a 32 year member of Bristol Rotary, took us through his transition, from joining a local Rotary Club to becoming a Rotarian in the broadest sense, and what it has meant for his personal growth.

Our first Meeting in the new Fiscal year

Our first open meeting of Bristol Rotary since the Pandemic. Next time, we'll be back to our old spot upstairs at DeWolfs. President Liz is presiding at the end of the table. Please notice our Joan Roth up front. Good to see her.

Bristol Rotary presented two Scholarship awards to MHHS' Julia Borgia and Matt Bracket. Presenting from Rotary is Cid Rodrigues and Pres. Paul LaFleur

Bristol Phoenix praises Bristol Rotary's consistent philanthropic activities during the pandemic.

Bristol Rotary donations during the 2020/2021 Fiscal year. We were able to do our part during the Pandemic and help others get through it.

Joanne Quinn, Executive Director of The Autism Project (TAP), thanks Bristol Rotary for their continued support during the Pandemic where adaptation allowed TAP to continue to serve the Community.

Ed Carusi, Director of Social Services for the Town of Bristol, thanks Bristol Rotary for a recent donation which purchased new Emergency Dialer devices to help the elderly and disabled to continue to live at home alone safely.

Article in the Bristol Phoenix about Bristol Rotary's Virtual Food Drive. Here Paul LaFleur gives the first $4,000 to Karen Griffith of the East Bay Food Pantry. Next goal is to raise $20,000 for food banks- see article below.

Virtual Food Drive - Bristol Rotary helping the Food Banks feed the explosion of families in need because of Covid

Bristol Rotary Pres. Paul Lafleur donates a $4000 check raised from the community to Karen Griffiths, Exec. Dir of the East Bay Food Pantry. Other Rotarians Mary Jo Tavares, and Marty Roussel. $4K feeds 66 families of 4 to 6 each for a week. Our next goal - 333 families or $20K.

Please join us at Dewolf Tavern on March 4th. Our guest speaker is Barbara Palumbo from Bristol Prevention Coalition.

Rotarian Paul Lafleur, discusses the new Program Charlie's Fight. Charlie's Fight is a new program dedicated to helping address Substance Abuse in our Middle Schools & High Schools. More Information is coming soon.

Aliyah Carrion, president of Rotaract at Mount Hope High School, discussed her teams plans for 2020.

Please join us at Dewolf Tavern, December 4th at 12:15 PM. Our guest speaker is Aliyah Carrion, a Mount Hope High School student. She will talk about how she plans to start an interact club to inspire young community leaders.

Please Join us and bring a friend to our next Rotary meeting on Wednesday, October, 9th at 12:15 at Dewolf Tavern. Our guess speaker Allen Langer will discuss "Selling in Today's Environment"

Dear Rotarians, please join us and bring a friend to our next Rotary meeting on Wednesday, September 25th at 12:15 p.m. at Dewolf Tavern. Our guest speaker is Dr. David S. Weed who will speak about the Sowams Heritage Area Project

Dear Rotarians, please join us this Wednesday, September 11th 12:15 p.m. at Dewolf Tavern. Our guest speakers this week are Sarah Withers and Jillian Kenny from the DECA leadership program.

New

New

Please join us this Wednesday, August 21st at 12:15 p.m. at Dewolf Tavern for our weekly meeting. The speakers are Jean Cotta and Christine Nolan from
Trinity Village

Rachel-Rose Komanapalli
Aug 07, 2019 12:15 PM
The Borgen Project addressing global poverty via legislation.

Angela Cabral finished an outstanding year as President of Bristol Rotary (center). Here she honors (clockwise) Ken and Mary Watkinson , Paul Harris Award; Christine Geremia, Rotarian of the Year; and beloved Joan Roth, Music Legend and Historian.

Posted on Jun 26, 2019

Amy Bratsos, Coordinator for Mosaico's Sense of Pride Program, discussed how Mosaico inspires community for the kids of Bristol & Warren.

Cheryl Martone from CASA, discussed how the organization advocates for children involved in family court

THANK YOU to everyone who supported the Bristol Rotary Club “Great Gatsby Gala" at Linden Place on March 30, 2019. It was a great success Roaring 20's style, with a net profit over $20, 000!

Charlie Enright, renown world class competitive sailor spoke about his racing experience throughout the world.

Bristol Rotary's Great Gatsby Gala

Posted by Angela Cabral on Mar 30, 2019

Jack Hendrickson, discusses how the Tomorrow fund helped him and his family through his battle with Leukemia. Jack has been in remission since the age of 8! What an inspiration!

Mark Alano officially inducting our newest Rotarian, Conroy Outar from JA Patty

The Bristol Rotary and Warren/Barrington Rotary Clubs were co-sponsors of the recent Bodacious Bee event for The Bristol/Warren Education Foundation last weekend. Both clubs also joined together in participating in the Spelling Bee contest.

Olivia Jacques, President of Rotaract updated our group on the incredible things her chapter continues to accomplish. Look out for more information on there Saint Patrick's Day Fundraiser!

Our fellow Rotarian, Vincent Geremia, a retired Anesthesiologist talked about his job and how it changed over the years. He worked at Charlton Memorial Hospital in Fall River for 35 years. He was in the U.S Navy for 7 years including serving in Vietnam.

Matthew Perry, enlightened the audience with the history of Silver Creek!

Rotarians Ingwor and Ivo Holmquist from Gstad, Sweden discussed there travels and the relationship between Sweden and America

Shannon Rozea from Thrive Outside, talked to us about there mission! They partner with schools and organizations to create, and sustain outdoor learning environments for kids!

Scott Mackay, Political Analysis for NPR, updated us on the Rhode Island office races!

Welcome new Bristol Rotary Member Catherine Sousa!

Ronnie Newman talked about how her work with Foreign Exchange teenagers from all over the world!

Peter King, owner of Water Rower, talked to us about the companies story and how they continue to innovate in a competitive market place!

Jane Lavender, chair of the Bristol Art Museum, talked to us about the museums upcoming events!

Please welcome Brenda & Vince Geremia to Rotary!

Edward Fitzpatrick, The Director of Media Relations at Roger Williams University, talked to us about the First Amendment!

2018 Bristol Rotary’s 2nd Annual Mt. Hope Bridge 5K Run

Jack Dusel gave his classification speech! Jack told us all about his journey from growing up in New Jersey to where he is today!

Stephen Randolph from Edward Jones, gave us his classification speech, so we could get to know him better!

Congratulations to Mark Alano for being awarded the Paul Harris Award. The Paul Harris Award recognizes members for there generous Donations!

Congratulations to Mary Jo Tavares on being awarded the Paul Harris Fellow Award. This award recognizes those for honoring others and there selfless contributions to Rotary!

Robin Tremblay from Linden Place, gave us a historical overview of Slave training in Bristol!

Olivia Jacques, President of Rotaract talked about the amazing work they have accomplished and their future vision!

Please welcome our newest Rotary member, Burton Bagby-Grose!

Colleen Kelley Mellor, author of Boomerrrang talked to us about what inspired her latest book. The book is about Colleen and her husband Paul's journey to find the perfect retirement community!

Posted on May 14, 2018

Bob Flanders, the Republican Nominee for U.S Senate, talked to us about how he will help Rhode Island residents if elected!

Posted on Apr 20, 2018

Passing of fellow Rotarian, Rudy Alano

Posted by Angela Cabral on Apr 19, 2018

Rudolph A. Alano

August 13, 1932 - April 18, 2018

Our hearts are heavy and saddened by the passing of our fellow Rotarian, Rudy Alano on April 18th. He was a true gentleman and great Rotarian. We will miss him dearly. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Below is the link for his funeral arrangements and obituary.

http://www.chiampafuneralhome.com/m/obituaries/Rudolph-Alano/Memories

Jack Martin & Erica Adams from Providence Library, talked to us about the libraries transformation to more of an educational model! The library is currently in the process of raising money for renovations!

Bishop Tobin from The Diocese of Providence, talked to us about how there parishes serve the Rhode Island Community!

Cheryl Martone, from CASA, talked to us about how the program helps abused and neglected children.

Posted on Feb 26, 2018

Jimmy Ferreira, long time Rotarian, remembers his friend and ours Fred Bruno, who passed away recently. He talked about Fred's contributions to Bristol Rotary, their friendship and the legacy they both left behind. Fred will be missed.

Posted on Feb 16, 2018

Welcome Sargent Ricardo Mourato, our newest Bristol Rotary Member!

Lisa, The Chief Operational Officer from Rhode Island Food bank, talked to us about how they help the people of Rhode Island. They distributed over 9 Million pounds of food Last year!

Posted on Jan 26, 2018

Ferdinand A. Bruno: Feb. 15,1929 - Jan. 21, 2018. Fred was the heart and the joy of Bristol Rotary for 53 years. We will miss him terribly. Our condolences to Joan and the family - and to our Club family.

Posted on Jan 23, 2018

Mary & Kenneth Watkinson, talked to us about the deplorable conditions and desperate needs of the children of Haiti.

Posted on Jan 15, 2018

Mount Hope High School Vocab and Jazz Ensemble, performed a beautiful Holiday Concert just for us!

Sargent Ricardo Mourato from The Bristol Police Department, talked to us about his Lock Box Program! The
Lock Box program gives police access to house keys.

Posted on Nov 29, 2017

Matt Gray, Managing Partner from Ragged Island Brewing Company, talked to us about his brewery! They're open Thursday-Sunday in Portsmouth, RI.

Posted on Nov 15, 2017

Sierra Zschirnt from the Confetti Foundation, talked to us about how the foundation helps throw birthday parties for children in the hospital. There goals is to ship 1200 Boxes per year!

Posted on Nov 15, 2017

Younhee Shin from Korean Spirit & Culture, talked to us about the culture in Korea!

Posted on Nov 08, 2017

Nellie Gorbea, Secretary of State, talked to us about how she has made voting easier and more efficient!

Posted on Oct 26, 2017

Lisa Raiola, talked to us about how Hope & Main helps food entrepreneurs jump start early stage food companies.

Posted on Oct 18, 2017

Elizabeth Russell becomes Bristol Rotary's new President for the 2017/2018 fiscal year. Here being sworn in by Lori DiPersio, Assistant District Governor for District #7950. Congratulations Beth!

Posted on Jun 21, 2017

Mary-Jo Tavares, President of Bristol Rotary, and Bruce Cox, President of its Charities Foundation (front row) accept a check for $1,000 from the employees of the East Bay Manufacturers for the Autism Project - East Bay Support Center.

Posted on Aug 30, 2016

Providence Journal political columnist Ed FitzPatrick shares the inside story on covering State and Local politics for the "ProJo"

Posted on Jul 28, 2015

Andrew Augustus,WPRO radio on air reporter and young Bristolian, shares his enthusiasm at becoming a reporter and the fun of working his way through the media web

Marilyn Smith gives her Classification talk - from Bristol to California to Episcopal Minister

Posted on May 19, 2015

Rose Mary Grant, Principal of the Highlander Charter School, gives an impressive talk about the results achieved by Highlander. She also donated space at the school for our Autism Project - East Bay Support Center

Posted on May 12, 2015

Dan McKee, Lieutenant Governor of Rhode Island, promotes "Advancing Rhode Island" by improving the climate for creating new businesses

Posted by Jacques de Labry on May 05, 2015

Three Bristol Rotarians are honored as Men Who Make a Difference at the The Women's Resource Center Gala; Chris Woodard, David Barboza and Ryan Fonseca

Posted by Jacques de Labry on Apr 30, 2015

Bruce Cox representing the Bristol Rotary Charities Foundation briefs the Bristol Town Council about our sponsorship of the Autism Project - East Bay Support Center and receives a $1000 donation (click on this title to read the briefing).

Posted by Jacques de Labry on Apr 28, 2015

Dr. Stephen Sheinkopf, psychologist and professor at Brown and Bradley, informs us about the nature of Autism and commends Bristol Rotary for funding an Autism project

Posted by Jacques de Labry on Apr 28, 2015

Nellie Gorbea, newly elected Secretary of State for Rhode Island gives us her rationale for qualifying to vote

Posted by Jacques de Labry on Apr 22, 2015

Dr. Geoffrey Berg, of Citizens Climate Lobby, addresses plan to solve climate change by taxing the carbon footprint and providing a payout to everyone.

Posted by Jacques de Labry on Apr 14, 2015

Bristol Rotarians and friends tackle the annual Food Drive, including Town Administrator, Tony Teixeira

Posted by Jacques de Labry on Apr 14, 2015

Trish Vasseur, announces the British Motorcar Festival on July 12 to 14 at Colt Park. Celebration of all things Bristish

Posted by Jacques de Labry on Apr 14, 2015

Main speaker was Ray Gallison, State Representative and newly appointed Grand Marshal of the 230th Bristol 4th of July Parade

Posted by Jacques de Labry on Apr 07, 2015

Once again David levies a summary judgement fining a classy old gentleman for wearing a pocket handkerchief!

Posted by Jacques de Labry on Apr 07, 2015

Bill Rizzini, guest of Doug Gablinske, was a past President of Bristol Rotary and former President of Roger Williams College

Posted by Jacques de Labry on Apr 07, 2015

Alexandra August tells us about the 4K Run for Cancer in which she will participate and raise money for the Young Adults Cancer Fund. The "Run Across Country" from SFO to NYC will take place this Summer.

David, in summary judgement, levies a fine on Mike Davis for just showing up!

Posted by Jacques de Labry on Mar 31, 2015

Rotary's Clergy: Marilyn, Liz and Mark, (only David Lucy missing) continues to lift the spiritual level of the club. Here hearing Deb's confession.

Posted by Jacques de Labry on Mar 31, 2015

Mike, Jack and Bruce always in good spirits. Or was it the spirits? Later, Bruce told us about the Volvo Ocean Race opportunity for BRCF

Posted by Jacques de Labry on Mar 31, 2015

We were honored to have Paul Suttell, Chief Justice of the RI Supreme Court speak. He gave us the history of the Court's motto NON SUB HOMME SED SUB DEO ET LEGE. If you don't know what it means, you were checking your smart phone.

Posted by Jacques de Labry on Mar 10, 2015

Paula Andrews presents a donation of $1,000 from BankFive to the Board of the Bristol Rotary Charities Foundation. Thanks also to Jack Dusel who initiated the solicitation.

Posted by Jacques de Labry on Mar 10, 2015

Judy Fortier and Jim Compagna (considered an Easter Seal Champion) remind us how important Easter Seals are in helping people with disabilities. Easter Seals was started by a Rotarian, Edgar Allen, from Elyria, Ohio in 1919.

Posted by Jacques de Labry on Mar 10, 2015

Our very timely speaker Michelle Muscatello, WPRI Meteorologist will commit to tomorrow's weather forecast but we'll have to wait 24 hours

The reverent Reverend Lucy rejoins us after completing his snow and Lenten duties

Jock Hayes recounts the success stories from the funding support given by the Bristol Warren Education Foundation

Posted on Feb 24, 2015

Our speaker Betsy Santariasci tells us about her cooking start-up incubator at Hope and Main

Posted by Jacques de Labry on Feb 10, 2015

Acting President Jack Dusel decreed that we will have fun - and we did

Posted by Jacques de Labry on Feb 10, 2015

Fred Pacheco [1935 - 2014] A sad farewell to a true Rotarian in every way

Posted by Mike Davis on Dec 22, 2014

Christy Nadalin, author of Legendary Locals of Bristol, with great stories about some of them

I take my lobster and do what?

Dr. Ed Ianniccilli, a Bristolian, author of "growing up Italian", gives us insight into immigrating to America

Senator Sheldon Whitehouse speaks at Bristol Rotary and opens the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance

Sen. Whitehouse reviews his top three priorities: Cyber Security, affordable and quality Healthcare, and the impact of Climate Change on Rhode Island

Luau

Posted by Louis Victorino on Sep 08, 2013

Chris, the great successful people of the world have used their imagination and they think ahead and create their mental picture in all its details, filling in here, adding a little there, altering this a bit and that a bit, but steadily building - steadily building. You and your wife did a great job on the Luau. It was a great time and raised money for a great cause. Thanks Chris for being a great Rotarian!

Awards Luncheon and Passing of the Gavel

Posted by Eric Sponseller on Jun 25, 2013

Deb Metaxas, past president for 2012-13, passes the gavel to Chris Woodard our new president for 2013-14.

Below: Deb Metaxas Awards Roland Cook for 43 years perfect attendance!

Installation Dinner June 20, 2013

Posted by Eric Sponseller on Jun 19, 2013

Congratulations to Christopher Woodard, Bristol Rotary Club's President for 2013-14!

Above: Mr. and Mrs. Chris Woodard

Mount Hope High School Robotics Team

Posted by Eric Sponseller on Jun 11, 2013

Mount Hope High School Robotics Team

Mr. Garrety and two students represented the Robotics team from Mt. Hope [High School], which the club has sponsored. The team has done well in successive years by achieving to the level being able to go to the World Championships in New York and placed second overall. They have a partnered relationship with businesses in the region to include: East bay Manufacturing, Technico, Roger Williams University, and Rhode Island College among others. (Source: Warren Poehler, 6/12/2013 meeting minutes)

Recent Speakers

Posted by Eric Sponseller on Apr 23, 2013

Sgt. Joseph Medeiros

Joseph Medeiros - Recipient of the silver star and purple heart in Korea, from Bristol, RI

Recent Speakers

Posted by Eric Sponseller on Apr 02, 2013

Christiana Quinn

Christiana Quinn - Preparing children for college

Bob Haynes will be missed...

Posted by Eric Sponseller on Mar 21, 2013

Dear Fellow Rotarians:

I was just informed by Robert S Haynes daughter, that Bob Haynes passed away peacefully in Florida this past Monday [March 18, 2013].

Cidalia Rodrigues, Past President, Rotary Club of Bristol

Congratulations to new member, Angela Cabral!

Posted by Eric Sponseller on Feb 12, 2013

Left to right: Fred Pacheco, Angela Cabral, and Marty Roussel

fireside chat

Posted by Louis Victorino on Aug 26, 2012

Bristol Rotary is holding a fireside chat for all new Bristol Rotary Club members on 9/5/12 at 5.30pm

REDLEFSEN'S Rotisserie & Grill

Banquet room

444 Thames Street
Bristol, Rhode Island 02809

(401) 254-1188

Hor d'oeuvres provided by Bristol Rotary

Cash bar

Agenda

1. Introduction of new Rotarians

2. What is Rotary?

3. A 5-minute presentation by each Committee Chair

4. Louis Victorino (what Rotary has done for me)

5. Cid Rodrigues (Her experience as last year’s club president)

6. Fred Bruno( Senior Active Rotarian)

7. Questions / comments

New Rotary members

Paula Andrews
Robert Haynes
Eric Sponseller
Christopher Lowis
  Gina Helm
  Sherrill Ferreira
Sandra Dugan
  Jacques DeLabry

Please make every effort to attend because we hold this event only once a year.

RSVP to:lou@eastbaymfg.com

Guest speaker Ken Marshall, State representative & Senior Deputy Majority leader, attributes RI success to groups like Rotary.

Posted by Jacques de Labry

After the Big Snow Storm of 2015, a small, hearty band of Rotarians crawl out of their snow caves to sing Mandalay, maintaining tradition!

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Ed Achorn, ProJo Editor of the Editorial Page, depicts the challenges of the ProJo and print media

Posted by Jacques de Labry

At our joint Rotary Clubs dinner and meeting, David Sarlitto from Ocean State Job Lot humbles us with the size and scope of their food program

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Bob Capone recounts his rivetiing experiences as a medic during his service in Vietnam

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Recovering from a scheduling mishap, Bristol Rotary adapts and rises to the occasion with Pizza!

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Rotary members come all out to make the Christmas Baskets this Saturday

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Big Surprise today - a return visit to Rotary by the Governor-elect of Rhode Island - Gina Raimondo

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Susan Donovan brings Habitat for Humanity's good work to the East Bay

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Rotary's Million Dollar Meal at Franklin Court and entertained by the talented Mt. Hope High School Chorus

Posted by Jacques de Labry

From Lively Lobster to Wasted Lobster through Erik's questionable tutelage

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Tony Avila gave his Classification talk - from immigrant to Bristol Entrepreneur to Rotarian

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Katherine Lucey speaks about Solar Sisters that makes entrepreneurs of women in Africa while providing life changing solar lighting

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Joanna Coppola is interviewed for an Phoenix article as a user of the Emergency Dialer Program, a donation of the Bristol Rotary Charities Foundation

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Susan Blicker extolls the Lifelong Learning Collaborative as a means for mature adults to participate in continuous learning and culture

Posted by Jacques de Labry

For Veterans Day, some of Bristol Rotary's veterans muster: Jack, Bill, Jacques, Fred and Mike

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Ed Carusi of the Emergency Dialer Program gets the first 501c3 donation from the Board of the Bristol Rotary Charities Foundation - minus Fred Bruno

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Welcome! Two new members get read their rights by David: Tony Avila and Rev. David Lucey, with sponsors, Paula and Rev. Mark.

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Bristol/Warren School Superintendant Mario Andrade lays out his strategy for his District.

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Valerie Perry, our new District 7950 Governor addresses the Bristol Club with enthusiasm for Rotary's goals

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Chris Woodard, 45 after 3 rounds of boxing at the ICON Club with Jared Gardiner, 25. Only possible if you have been an ex-President of Rotary.

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Bristol Police Chief, Josue Canario, symbolizes the great job the Bristol Police does for the community. Cid gets him coffee.

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Two new members are merrily inducted into Bristol Rotary - Marie Mauricio and Elizabeth Almeida. Welcome!

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Our Angela, " I was honored to win the Mirror Ball trophy at the Dancing with the East Bay Stars fundraising event last Saturday night"

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Sen. Whitehouse reviews his top three priorities: Cyber Security, affordable and quality Healthcare, and the impact of Climate Change on Rhode Island

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Senator Sheldon Whitehouse speaks at Bristol Rotary and opens the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Dr. Ed Ianniccilli, a Bristolian, author of "growing up Italian", gives us insight into immigrating to America

Posted by Jacques de Labry

I take my lobster and do what?

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Speaking of Legends, here's one in the front row

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Christy Nadalin, author of Legendary Locals of Bristol, with great stories about some of them

Posted by Jacques de Labry

The Bristol Rotary Secret Service - black is the new black

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Ryan Fonseca, representing the Montaup Country Club Board gives generous donation to Bruce Cox, President of Bristol Rotary Charities Foundation

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Manny Correira, Rotarian, Grand Marshal and an accomplished Bristolian gave us his insights into newspaper reporting

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Full house at the 9/17/14 Meeting - Summer vacations are over!

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Bob Whitcomb explained the divisions in the Islamic world and its complexities

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Bert Upson relates his moving, first person account of the 9/11 tragedy at the World Trade Center

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Luau 2014 - you missed a heck of a party

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Last 2 speakers: 8/20 John Laughlin WPRO Host & Iraq Vet, and 9/3 Janet Coit, Dir. of DEM

Posted by Jacques de Labry

The Bristol Rotary Chorale

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Liz Habecker , Adriana Burns and Dan Ferreira share their classification talks. Only Dan turned into a duck!

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Near the 200 anniversary of the Star Spangled Banner, Joan Roth gives us the history. There will be a test on the 2nd stanza.

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Kevin Fisette, from Goodwill, gives David a certificate of appreciation for Bristol Rotary's support of the joint event in June

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Bob Kerr shares a moving account of his reporting in Vietnam and discusses the future of print journalism

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Bill Reynolds proves that he is as an accomplished speaker as he is a writer

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Bristol Rotary lunch gets a beautiful day and an outing by the water

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Laughter and merriment abounds at the USA vs. Italy Polo match for Bristol Rotary Charities

Posted by Jacques de Labry

John Bell updates us on the great work at Transitions, Guatemala. Josh Leitao thanks the club for funding his visit to the FIMRC clinic in Nicaragua

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Kristen Bond gave us a moving depiction of the importance of music to the deprived kids of Central Falls

Posted by Jacques de Labry

David Barboza opens his first meeting as President and reviews his goals for the year

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Chris Woodard winds up his term as President and gets a standing ovation

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Wendy Fachion alerted us to the dangers of Genetically Modified Organisms in our food supply

Posted by Jacques de Labry

This year's new theme for Rotary International - "Light up Rotary"

Posted by Jacques de Labry

David presents his goals for his 2014/15 term - "Have Fun" had the most applause.

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Chris Woodard our current President passes the baton to our new President David Barboza - or maybe it's a fork

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Reverend Mark and Louise begin to get rowdy

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Great turn out at the Elks for David's induction, award and fellowship night

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Doug Gablinske has been awarded the prestigious SRA membership designation by the Appraisal Institute

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Amy Schram from BBB floods us with information - some of it relevant

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Marilyn Mason offers an higher dimension to collecting for Bristol Charities

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Rotary Charities Foundation and Goodwill team up to collect over 8K lbs of electronics and almost $500 in donations for BRCF. Part of the team below.

Posted by Jacques de Labry

New young Rotary members get inducted by our President: Ryan Fonseca sponsored by Mary Jo and Danial Ferreira sponsored by Chris

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Halsey Herreshoff offers a fasinating perspective on his family's achievements

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Chris announces the formation of Bristol Rotary Charities Foundation, the new 501c3

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Ed McGuire explains that it isn't only the NSA that's hacking our electronic devices

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Why is this man smiling? Paul anounced that he and the lovely Tammy are engaged!

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Cookie Rojas regaling us again with PawSox activities

Posted by Jacques de Labry

New larger digs; DeWolf's must really like us!

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Jimmie helps us remember Cookie with both touching and hilarious memories

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Brandi models our new club tee shirts

Posted by Jacques de Labry

We are blessed to have Liz in Bristol Rotary

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Joe Bains - Interesting History of Prudence Island (until he got to the ticks and chiggers)

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Delightful visit from German Rotary District 1930, here singing the German National Anthem: L-R Jessika, Anselm, Katrin, Christine and Jorg

Posted by Jacques de Labry

At lunch on 4/30, Ken Totushek sang his songs and cheered us up

Posted by Jacques de Labry

The ladies of the 2nd Story Fundraiser: L-R Beth, Deb, Sandra and First Lady Lisa

Posted by Jacques de Labry

The Dusel family takes over meeting! R-L: Proud Grandpa, Jack, Charlotte, Kate, Cathy, and son Chris

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Steve Hudak brings son Aidan during Spring break. Chris prepared to start a food fight.

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Keith Mahoney with a powerful talk on Recycling

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Spring is here! Our Joan donning her Easter finery.

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Happy Birthday Bill McCaw. May we have 90 more please!

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Another icon of Bristol Rotary, Joan Roth, pays tribute to Bill

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Guess whose 90th birthday it was - the fearless Captain Bill McCaw

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Bruce Carlsten, our speaker Wednesday, sings the praises of Community String Project

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Welcome our new member, Adrianna Ferns and her sponsor, Brandi Gifford - 4.9.14

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Doug and Christine - Doug must be standing on a box. 4.9.14

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Jack Dusel is very happy with his lunch - 4/9/14

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Steve receives Club pin from his sponsor Marie Knapman. Welcome Steve!

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Steven Hudak is inducted as a new member of Bristol Rotary

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Cookie, you will be missed by us all.

Posted by Jacques de Labry

March 26, 2014 was a sad day for Bristol Rotary, our friend Cookie passed.

Posted by Jacques de Labry

The Pacheco Family, good to see Fred again ...and talking

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Catherine Zipf, Architectural Historian, hoping for restoration of the Longfield House

Posted by Jacques de Labry

John Bell telling us of the terrific work done by Transitions of Guatemala

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Lauren Gablinske plans to run the Boston Marathon to raise donations in her brother Derek's memory

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Shayne Simpson partners with Hasboro Children's Hospital "Race for $20K"

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Rosemary Mahoney talks about her book Dispatches from the World of the Blind

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Rosemary Mahoney talks about Dispatches from the World of the Blind

Posted by Jacques de Labry

We wish her the best because she is the best. Come back to us soon, Joan

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Fred Bruno - our Matlock, celebrates 40 year anniversary as a member of Bristol Rotary

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Marilyn Smith Mason - congratulations to our newest Bristol Rotary member

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Two Episcopal ministers hugging - awkward!

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Our president- Takes pictures, runs meetings, cooks the lunch, performs brain surgery, pays early fee.

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Thank you to the Bristol Fire Department, Rotary Volunteers and Cid for a successful Food Drive

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Food Drive volunteers brave the cold and sort the donations to the Bristol Good Neighbors Soup Kitchen

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Rotary super volunteers Brandy and our prior Pres. Deb

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Volunteer and Fireman Team up to fill food boxes

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Meeting of 1/15: Chris in the Rotary spirit offers some soup to an old guy.

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Meeting of 1/15: David does his hilarious fish impersonation for Marilyn, Pat and Liz.

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Meeting of 1/15: Lou insists that Christine and MaryJo are legal aliens

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Meeting of 1/15: Chris painfully recounts his dental surgery

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Mt. Hope High School Vocal Ensemble at Rotary Meeting at Franklin Court

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Mt. Hope Vocal Ensemble at Million Dollar Meal

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Chris Woodard, President Bristol Rotary Club and Dietrich Bilger, District 7950 Governor

Posted by Jacques de Labry

District 7950 Governor Dietrich Bilger speaks at Bristol Rotary Meeting

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Luau Scooter winner (left) Gary Dame

Posted by Jacques de Labry

Rotary Luncheon - August 14, 2013 - On the Deck at DeWolf Tavern

Posted by Eric Sponseller

Today's speaker... Buddy Cianci, WPRO talk show host and former mayor of Providence

Buddy Cianci

Jack Dusel addresses the Rotary Club

Jack Dusel

Newest Bristol Rotarian: Angela Pacheco Cabral

Posted by Mike Davis

Angela Cabral gives her Classification Talk at the July 31st meeeting. No stranger to Rotary, she was sponsored by her Dad: Fred Pacheco, Past President and Paul Harris Fellow.

Past speakers

Posted by Eric Sponseller

Michelle Moniz Mar 20, 2013 Sovereign Bank

Above: Michelle Moniz from Sovereign Bank (left), and Deb Metaxas, President (right). Michelle talked about identity fraud at our March 20 meeting.

Dan DaPonte

Above: Dan DaPonte, Chair RI Senate Finance Committee

Jock Hayes

Above: Jock Hayes, Bristol-Warren Education Foundation (left), and Marty Roussel

Ann and Arthur

Above: Ann Wiard and Arthur Donnelly, Bristol Good Neighbors Soup Kitchen & Food Pantry

Angel Taveras - Mayor of Providence

Above: Angel Taveras, Mayor of Providence

Rotary gets ready to explore Lisbon

Posted by Louis Victorino

Rotarians from around the world gather each year to exchange great ideas, connect with old and new friends, have fun, and advance the work of Rotary. The 2013 RI Convention will take place in Lisbon, Portugal, 23-26 June. From the bustling House of Friendship to breakout sessions to preconvention meetings, the RI Convention is your way to connect with the family of Rotary.

Annual Rotary Awards Night

Posted by Louis Victorino

Tulip Poplar trees

Posted by Eric Sponseller

The Rotary Club of Bristol donated two new Tulip Poplar trees at the entrance of the new Bristol Community Center at Colt State Park, formerly the Army Reserve Center. The tree planting was conducted with the assistance of Da Ponte’s Landscaping. Present at the event was President Cidalia Rodrigues, Vice President Christopher Woodard, Rotary members Louis Victorino, Eric Sponseller, Mark Alano, Paula Andrews, and Sandra Dugan including Recreation Director Walter Burke.

Scores of volunteers fill food pantry’s shelves

Posted by Louis Victorino

Bristol Rotary donates 4th ShelterBox... and more

Posted by Mike Davis

On Wednesday, January 27th, the Bristol Rotary Club donated two more ShelterBox units in addition to the one donated on January 20th in memory of Club President Forrest A. Edward, who pledged the donation during the "Rotary Cares, Rotary Shares" event he organized this past summer. The Club is continuing to solicit donations from Rotarians and others for as many additional units as possible. All donations are consolidated and forwarded to ShelterBox U.S.A., Inc., a 501(c)(3) CharitableTrust administered by the Lakewood Ranch Rotary Club in Bradenton, Florida

Each ShelterBox unit provides shelter and bedding, stove, and cooking and eating utensils, basic tools, and water purification to support up to ten people for up to 90 days.

The ShelterBox humanitarian disaster relief project is supported by contributions from Rotary Clubs throughout the world.

Click on this URL for the latest Rotary Update from Haiti: [ 28 Jan, 2010 ]

http://clubrunner.ca/dprg/dxhome/dxstoriestab/_storyitem.aspx?did=7020&index=8525&linkcat=4&tail=2&dir=f

Click on: "District 7020 News" at the upper left of our Home Page for continuous updates and a blog from Rotarians working in Haiti.

Forrest Edward's children named Honorary Rotarians

Posted by Mike Davis

The children of the late Forrest and Marilyn Edward were honored guests at the Bristol Rotary Club meeting on Wednesday, January 13th.

By acclamation of the Club members they were inducted as Honorary Rotarians and invited to attend all Club meetings and events as guests of the Club. Kimberly Johnston of California, Scott Edward of Newport, Lorie Hicks of Nevada, and Craig Edward of New York, and their spouses and families expressed their gratitude for the impact that Rotary service had on their parent's lives throughout the years.

Howard E. Kestenberg appointed Club President

Posted by Mike Davis

By unanimous vote of the Board of Directors on January 11th, 2010, Howard Kestenberg [President Elect 2010-2011] has been appointed President of the Bristol Rotary Club effective through June 30th, 2010. The Board gratefully acknowledges the procedural advice of District 7950 Governor Terry Humfreys.

Howard was sworn in by the Past Presidents in attendance at the Club meeting on January 13th, 2010.

FORREST A. EDWARD 1934 -2010

Posted by Mike Davis

With deepest regret and profound sorrow the Bristol Rotary Club learned of the death of its President, Forrest A. Edward, on Wednesday, January 6th, 2010.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, and constant companion in Rotary, Marilyn June Edward, on February 5th, 2008.

He was fatally stricken at her gravesite on Tuesday, January 5th, 2010.

The members of the Bristol Rotary Club express sincere condolences to Forrest's brother, Horton; to Forrest's children, Kimberly, Scott, Lorie, and Craig; to his grandchildren, Gretchen, Robert, Elizabeth, Nathaniel, Rachel, Rebecca, and Steven; and to his great-grandson, Malcolm Ray.

Condolences may be offered to the Edward family by clicking on this URL:

http://obit.memorialfuneralhome.com/obitdisplay.html?id=743155&clientid=memorialfuneralhome&listing=All

Champagne Gala 2009 a SPARKLING SUCCESS!

Posted by Mike Davis

The night of October 18th was filled with music, conversation, and... bargains galore as the champagne and hors d'oeuvres sparked the bidding on dozens of silent auction items... all to raise funds for Bristol Rotary Club community projects this year.

(JOIN THE FUN: Click on "PHOTOS" at the upper left on the HOME PAGE)

Service [surr-viss n.] Above [uh-buv adv.] Self [sehlf n.] Dictionaries for Kids!

Posted by Mike Davis

Getting a jump-start on Rotary International Literacy Month coming in March, 2010, the Bristol Rotary Club donates 270 Children's Dictionaries to the third graders in the Bristol/Warren Regional School District...
(Click on: "PHOTOS" at the upper left of the HOME PAGE)

Bristol Rotarians and Full Channel TV brighten the Holidays!

Posted by Mike Davis

With the help of a matching grant from Full Channel TV, Bristol County's provider of Digital Cable TV, Internet Access, and Residential Telephone service, The Bristol Rotary Club was able to purchase, pack, and deliver 50 Thanksgiving Dinners with all the fixings for area families in need. The project was funded by personal contributions from the Rotarians to earn the matching grant...
(SEE THEM AT WORK: Click on "PHOTOS" at the upper left on the HOME PAGE)

'08-'09 I.P.D.G. Steve Silverman on RI Foundation goal

Posted by Mike Davis

Immediate Past District 7950 Governor Steve Silverman and his wife, Amy-Jo Aaronson, bring the Rotary Foundation's message to all clubs: "use all means to support "POLIO PLUS" and its $200 million dollar challenge grant this Rotary year! The Club offered best wishes to Steve on what appears to be a full recovery from medical procedures that temporarily sidelined him this past spring!

District Governor visits, gets "the bird"!!!

Posted by Mike Davis

'09-'10 Rotary 7950 District Governor Terry Humfryes, with his wife, Mary; paid his annual visit to meet with the Club's Directors and address the members on this year's Rotary theme: The Future of Rotary is in Your Hands. As part of an "inside joke" suggested by his predecessor, P.D.G. Steve Silverman, he received one more of the inumerable pink flamingos that will come his way as he visits all the Clubs in the District.

ROTARIANS and RYLARIANS join forces for "Rotary Cares, Rotary Shares"

Posted by Mike Davis

Rotarians from the Bristol Rotary Club and Clubs throughout District 7950, joined by RYLArians and Police, Fire & Rescue, Red Cross, and Blood Center volunteers all came together for the first "Rotary Cares, Rotary Shares" family day at the Bristol Town Beach.

"RYLA" program participants on hand for "Rotary Cares"

Posted by Mike Davis

RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Award) leaders from District 7950 were on hand with past and present "RYLARIANS" to explain the many Rotary programs exhibits in the pavillion at the Bristol Town Beach for "Rotary Cares" family day.

Bristol Fire & Rescue volunteers for "Rotary Cares" event

Posted by Mike Davis

Volunteers from Bristol Fire & Rescue offered Blood Pressure Screening (and a moment or two in air-conditioned comfort) at the Bristol Rotary Club's "Rotary Cares, Rotary Shares" family day at the Bristol Town Beach. (see related 8/20/08 story, below)

Rhode Island Blood Center BLOODMOBILE at "Rotary Cares" Project...

Posted by Mike Davis

The mobile unit of the Rhode Island Blood Center was set up and in full operation accepting donations from Rotarians and the Public from 10 AM until 2:00 PM at Saturday's "Rotary Cares, Rotary Shares" event staged by the Bristol Rotary Club at the Town Beach.

Bristol Police "E-Z Child ID" unit in service at "Rotary Cares" event

Posted by Mike Davis

The Bristol Police Department's Mobile Command Center was on hand at the Town Beach for "Rotary Cares" day to demonstrate the new "E-Z Child ID" project by members of the Fraternal Order of Police. The system was purchased with a participating grant from the Bristol Rotary Club.

ShelterBox USA at "Rotary Cares" event

Posted by Mike Davis

The public information unit of ShelterBox USA set up their tent (literally)at the Town Beach as part of the Bristol Rotary Club's "Rotary Cares" family day. The Bristol Club has committed to raise $1,000 each year for this international instant response disaster relief program, which airlifts thousands of fully equipped emergency shelters and life-sustaining supplies to areas ravaged by disaster.

Rhode Island Red Cross at "Rotary Cares" day...

Posted by Mike Davis

The Disaster Preparedness mobile field education unit of the Rhode Island Red Cross participated in the Bristol Rotary's "Rotary Cares" family picnic day at the Town Beach.

"Bristol Rotary Cares"

Posted by Mike Davis

What could be better than an end of summer picnic for Bristol Rotarians at the Town Beach? Turning the day into an opportunity for the whole town and its visitors to meet the Rotarians, learn about Rotary and its programs, and take advantage of the services that the Club supports throughout the year!

"Saved by the Bell..."

Posted by Mike Davis

Outgoing President Mike Davis is presented with an engraved comemorative Rotary Bell in appreciation of his service to the Club...

"Hail to the Chief..."

Posted by Mike Davis

Forrest A. Edward is sworn in as the 81st President of the Bristol Rotary Club...

New Rotary year begins for Club Officers...

Posted by Mike Davis

The Officers of the Bristol Rotary Club for 2009-2010 were sworn in at the July 1st meeting...