Category: Meeting Minutes

Sept. 8, 2016 Minutes
Submitted by Tommy Fulton, Contributing Editor
Call to Order: The meeting was called to order by Les Greer. Father Gregory F. Lucey gave the invocation, followed by Gordon Korb, who led us in song, accompanied by Bill Oppenheimer at the piano. Tom Martenstein introduced our guests along with visiting Rotarians.
New Members: Rick Harvey introduced Russell Schmitz as a new member.
Announcements: There is a board meeting next week, Sept. 15th. New member orientation will be October 11th.
Program: Rick Harvey introduced our speaker, Dr. Christopher Puto, President of Springhill College.
Dr. Puto began by mentioning how proud Mobilians should be to have three great universities in our area, University of South Alabama, University of Mobile and Springhill College. With respect to Springhill, he mentioned that they have 395 freshmen and 43 transfers this fall. That includes students from 26 states and 8 foreign countries. Springhill was founded in 1830 and has been in Mobile for 186 years.
Dr. Puto described the Strategic Planning Process underway at Springhill, which engaged every element of the campus. There are 50 planning units involved in the process, which led to 10 Key Strategic Goals. He also informed us that there are 28 Jesuit colleges in the United States, of which Springhill is the 3rd oldest. He also emphasized the fact that Springhill is the only one who offers “no frostbite.”
The planning process focuses on the 4 Pillars of Faith, Learning, Justice and Service. The result of the Plan is 130 Tactical/Operational Goals, all of which are tracked through software, which will help inform staff and supporters of the College. Perhaps one of the most interesting new focus is “Vocation and Discernment – Pathways to Purpose. This program helps students discern how they will affect the world into which they graduate.
Dr. Puto then described a very successful process, with support of alumni, which substantially reduced short-term debt. As of March, they had commitments to reduce a $27 million debt to zero.
Springhill’s dedication to service is evident in the fact that the 1,200 students enrolled have contributed 25,000 hours of service to the Mobile area. Dr. Puto then fielded questions from the audience.
The meeting was adjourned at 1:00 pm.

Minutes of the September 1, 2016 Meeting
The Rotary Club of Mobile
Call to Order: The meeting was called to order by club president Les Greer at 12:15 PM. Wayne Miller offered the invocation and then Gordon Korb led the club in song accompanied by Bill Oppenheimer on the piano. Tom Martenstein welcomed guests of members and visiting Rotarians.
Recognition: Bill Sisson was recognized as the newest Paul Harris Fellow.
Program: Paul Giardina – Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile
Rick Harvey introduced Paul Giardina, a fellow Rotarian and Executive Director of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile. Paul gave a brief history of Ronald McDonald houses noting that McDonald’s is not an owner of the houses but rather a regular supporter. A penny per Happy Meal sold goes to the organization he explained. Currently there are 350 Ronald McDonald Houses in the world with the majority located in the U. S. near hospitals.
Paul said that the purpose of each of the houses is to provide a home away from home for families of hospitalized children. The Ronald McDonald House in Mobile opened in 2000 with 12 bedrooms. A capital campaign allowed the facility to grow that number to 38. Each has a private bath and there are common areas as well as a laundry and playroom.
Some 60% of the children of families staying at the Ronald McDonald House are infants born prematurely. The average family will stay weeks or even months, he said adding that through 2015 over 800 families have been served. At Christmas “Santa’s Workshop” arrives allowing the families the convenience of selecting toys for their children without leaving the property.
Local support is vital he said and recognized the fact that three of his board members are also members of the Rotary Club of Mobile. Paul said that their website provides a wish list, explaining it can be as simple as picking up an extra bottle of laundry detergent and dropping it by the facility.
Les thanked Paul for being our speaker and noted that in his honor a donation has been made to Rotary International.
Tom McGehee

Minutes of the Rotary Meeting – August 18, 2016
By: Henry R. Seawell, IV
Invocation, Song, Music and Pledge
Les Greer called the meeting to order. Reverend Beverly Gibson gave the invocation. Tommy Blankenship led the Song and Pledge, accompanied by Bill Oppenheimer on the piano.
Introduction of Guests and Visitors: Tom Martenstein. Two new members of the organization were introduced, including State Farm agent Ken McElhaney (Intro by Henry Callaway) and Wilmer Hall’s Pratt Patterson (Intro by Sally Greene).
Announcements: Rotarians with 100% attendance were honored, the most impressive of which was John Moses, who has demonstrated his devotion to the organization with 33 years of perfect attendance. Our Club was visited by Rotary International President John Germ, who provided us with a special message regarding membership. As part of this effort, Les Greer implemented “Table Talk,” whereby each table was tasked with identifying one or more prospective members to bring to the next meeting.
Program
Speaker: Anna Katherine Ray, Sponsorship & Community Outreach Chair / Girls of the Run South Alabama, was introduced by Matt Head.
Anna Katherine Ray serves as the Sponsorship & Community Outreach Chair of Girls of the Run South Alabama (“Girls Run”), an after-school program for 3rd to 5th grade girls. The program is designed to support both physical and emotional well-being for these young ladies and – over the course of twelve weeks of training – prepare them to complete a Five Kilometer Race.
The genesis of Ms. Ray’s involvement in Girls Run was her 4th grade daughter, who was having some challenges developing her confidence, which challenges were impacting her school experience. Girls Run became an excellent confidence booster, and Anna Katherine’s daughter discovered an abundance of untapped potential. After completing the Girls Run program, her child had demonstrated the ability to face adversity head-on and the confidence to become a successful young lady.
The scope of Girls Run is impressive. Over the course of twenty (20) years, Girls Run has shared its program and mission with over one million young ladies – over 180,000 this year alone.
The meeting was adjourned.

Rotary Club of Mobile
Minutes
25 August 2016
Rotary Tidbit: Les Greer opened with a quote by Gandhi. He proceeded to highlight Rotary’s positive impact on the eradication of polio.
Members from other clubs: Jay Ison from Mobile Sunrise and Cullan Duke from Mobile West.
New members: Sumpter McGowin provided the introduction of new member Clint Flowers.
Announcements:
Les Greer reminded members that the annual gala would be held on October 5, 2016. He commended John Dukes on his efforts on what will be a successful event.
Ernest Ladd presented the Tarpon Tournament Awards. After acknowledging the efforts of John Toomey, co-chair of the Tournament, Ladd proceded to announce the winners. He presented plaques and checks to the recipients. Award winners were as follows: Ashton Boykin, First Jack (24.8 pounds); Jay Ison, Second Jack (24.3 pounds); Noel Nelson, Second Place Tarpon; Alex Arendall, Third Place Jack; and Ernest Ladd, 1st Place Tarpoon.
Program.
Following Matt Head’s introduction, Commander Daniel G. Straub thanked those assembled. He expressed that it was an honor to speak before Rotary and thanked several colleagues for being in attendance. A short video of the USS Montgomery, the subject of his program, was shown. After the video, Commander Straub provided an account of the vessel. He stated that the USS Montgomery was the second ship to bear the name of Alabama’s state capital. Straub explained that of the US Navy’s eight literal combat ships, USS Montgomery was undoubtedly the best. He said that the vessel received a “flying broom” or clean sweep during its congressionally mandated acceptance trial as but one testament to the ship’s attributes. The Commander informed the audience that while the Montgomery ‘s top notch crew had been in Mobile February, they had only moved onto the ship six week’s ago and that they would be departing to home port of San Diego upon the Montgomery’s official commission (10 September 2016). Commander Straub stated that eth Montgomery measures 418 feet in length by 104 feet in depth. He stated that the 3500 ton vessel travels at 50 miles per hour and adapt to an incredibly low draft of 14 feet. It was noted that 4,000 Alabamians labored to build the boat. Straub went on to allow that the aforementioned figure did not take into account service providers. Public and private partnerships included the the City of Mobile, County of Mobile, and City of Montgomery, as well as the involvement of Senators Richard Shelby and Jeff Sessions and Congressman Bradley Byrne. Commander Schaub spoke highly of his crew of 53 three by saying that ranked among the best sailors in the fleet. After reiterating the date of the Montgomery’s commission, Schaub noted that bell of the first USS Montgomery would go on the maiden voyage of her successor. Additionally, teak salvaged from the USS Alabama had been employed the vessel’s deck. He noted that these physical ties connected the new ship to a martial tradition embracing the Spanish American War, First World War, Second World War, and Korean War. The adaptability of the ship and its technological ability were mentioned. In closing, Commander Schaub stated the USS Montgomery was an exemplar of the more defensive stance of the US Navy. In short, the ship was built to fight for our country. The Commander closed his presenation and opened the floor for questions. Questions included inquiries pertaining to the ride and range of the vessel.
The presentation received considerable applause.
Birthday announcements followed by mention of the location of the next meeting ensued.

Minutes of the August 11, 2016 Meeting
The Rotary Club of Mobile
Call to Order: The meeting was called to order by club president Les Greer at 12:15 PM. Saty Pucha offered the invocation and Tom Martenstein led the group in our song and the Pledge of Allegiance. Jeff Zoghby welcomed visiting Rotarians and members’ guests.
New Members: Tom Roberts introduced Wade Gordon, a Client Advisor at Oakworth Capital Bank and Sumpter McGowin introduced Stephen McNair, owner of McNair Historic Preservation as the club’s newest members.
Announcements: Les made the following announcements –
• A board meeting will take place on August 18.
• Please pick up a new Roster as you exit today.
• The club will recognize members with perfect attendance at the meeting on August 18.
• The annual club gala will take place on October 5. Please mark your calendars.
Program: Amanda Sibert – Mobile Young Entrepreneurs
Matt head introduced Amanda Sibert who currently serves as the Executive Director of Mobile Young Entrepreneurs. Ms. Sibert said that the goal of this local organization is to pair seasoned business leaders with young entrepreneurs hoping to start a business.
She explained that the idea rapidly grew from a Facebook post and that the first scheduled meeting attracted 500 participants. She added that the term “young” refers not to age but rather spirit and that the goal of the group is to convert stumbling blocks into steps.
After answering questions, Ms. Sibert was given a certificate by Les Greer thanking her for speaking today and noting that in her honor a gift has been made to the Rotary International Foundation.
Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 12:50 PM.
Tom McGehee

June 30, 2016 Minutes
Submitted by Tommy Fulton, Contributing Editor
Call to Order: The meeting was called to order by Ernest Ladd, Jr. Kate Carver gave the invocation, followed by Tommy Blankenship, who led us in song, accompanied by Bill Oppenheimer at the piano. Tommy Blankenship introduced our guests along with visiting Rotarians.
New Members: Rick Harvey introduced Russell Schmitz as a new member.
Announcements: The new rosters are ready. Peggy Bugg has them at the table. Ernest Ladd, Jr. gave a recap of the Tarpon Tournament.
Program: Matt Head introduced our speaker, Johnny Gwin, with Deep Fried Studios. His topic was “What the Heck is Podcasting?”
Mr. Gwin described podcasting as “on-demand radio.” It provides better targeting through narrow-casting, rather than the more familiar broadcasting methods. Gwin said that podcasting is to radio as blogs are to journalism and news. Podcasters endeavor to be storytellers through audio, so that the listeners use their own “video” in their own minds. He believes this medium is more authentic and personal than other means of communication.
According to Mr. Gwin, the average age of a podcast listener is 30 years old, as compared to 45 for AM/FM and 57 for broadcast TV. This medium is great for Corporate or Personal branding. One of his more popular offerings is called “Pulpit to Pew”, which allows the minister to delve in a little deeper to her weekly message.
Our speaker gave 5 steps to creating an effective podcast.
1) Have a great idea;
2) Buy a good quality microphone;
3) Find a good editor-or edit yourself;
4) Stay consistent-Plan & Schedule;
5) Learn Social media.
Some of Gwin’s favorite podcasts include “Hello, Beautiful Nerds”, by Roman Mars and “Serial”, which is one of the most downloaded podcasts of all time. He wrapped up by telling us that there is a podcast at www.rotaryclubradio.com
Ernest Ladd, Jr. presented a certificate to Mr. Gwin acknowledging a donation in his name to one of Mobile Rotary Clubs charities.
The meeting was adjourned at 1:00 pm.

Minutes
The Rotary Club of Mobile
July 21, 2016
Call to Order: The meeting was called to order by Les Greer, club president at 12:15 PM. An invocation was offered by Wayne Miller and Gordon Korb led the group in song and the pledge. Tom Martenstein then introduced visiting Rotarians and members’ guests.
Announcements: Les Greer made the following announcements:
1. A board meeting will take place following today’s meeting.
2. There will be no meeting on July 28. The Captain’s Reception will take its place at 5:45 PM at Ruth’s Chris. The Tarpon Tournament will take place on Saturday, July 30.
3. On August 3 Frank Harkins has arranged to take a group to visit Camp ASCA. Please let him know if you would like to go with them.
Program: A Visit from the District Governor – Barry Cavan
Barry Cavan, a retired employee of Montgomery’s Catholic Social Services was introduced by Ernest Ladd. Barry recognized a number of fellow Mobile Rotarians with whom he has had a good working relationship over the years.
He likened the work of Rotarians to the Good Samaritan. Rather than ask “What might happen to me if I help that injured man?” Rotarians, like the Good Samaritan, instead ask “What will happen to him if I don’t help him?” And he added how appropriate this year’s theme is: “Rotary Serving Humanity.”
Barry also reminded the group that this is the 100th anniversary of the creation of the Rotary Foundation. In 1916 it started out with $26.50 and today is in excess of $1 billion. More than $1.5 billion has been spent on projects around the world, he said, with some 2.5 billion children immunized against polio. This year reported cases of polio are down to just 17 worldwide from a high of 385,000.
Les thanked Barry for speaking today and presented him with a certificate noting that in his honor a donation has been made to Rotary International.
Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 12:55 PM.
Tom McGehee

Minutes of the Rotary Meeting – June 23, 2016
By: Henry R. Seawell, IV
Invocation, Song, Music and Pledge
Robbie McClure called the meeting to order. Steve Dill gave the invocation. Rotarians engaged in a remarkably well-orchestrated, a cappella version of the National Anthem.
Introduction of Guests and Visitors: Tom Martenstein.
Announcements: Rotarians were reminded of the Passing the Gavel Ceremony, which took place on July 14th.
Program
Speaker: Pamela Patterson, Executive Director of Distinguished Young Women, was introduced by Rob Diehl.
Distinguished Young Woman, formerly America’s Junior Miss, has been a vital part of the Mobile landscape for 59 years. Pamela “Pam” Patterson presently serves as Executive Director of Distinguished Young Women. Her interest in the organization began when she and her family opted to act as a host family. The competition was held from June 23 – 25 and featured 51 contestants, one from each state and the District of Columbia. Tara Moore from Easley, South Carolina won this year’s event.
Distinguished Young Women seeks to promote scholarship, leadership and talent. These extraordinary young ladies are quite accomplished; several of them have already started their own non-profit organizations. In addition, this year alone, more than $2 Million in cash scholarships have been awarded to the contestants. The academic prowess of the ladies is equally impressive, with an average contestant ACT score of 32.
The Distinguished Young Women footprint is rather large. According to Patterson, over the 59 years of the program’s existence, more than 745,000 people have participated in the program in some manner, whether as a contestant, host family, volunteer or otherwise. Interestingly, the largest feeder program for the finals in Mobile is located in Idaho. There are 411 state and local programs throughout the country that offer candidates an opportunity to compete. The competition also introduces very talented young women to the Mobile area. Apparently, they like what they see, as 6 state winners are presently attending the University of South Alabama and 37 state winners are enrolled in an Alabama institution of higher learning. Pam is to be congratulated for the excellent work she is performing for Distinguished Young Women to carry on the tradition of excellence for this local gem.
The meeting was adjourned.

Minutes
The Rotary Club of Mobile
July 14, 2016
Call to Order: The meeting was called to order by Robby McClure, club president at 12:15 PM. An invocation was offered by Chip Hale and Tom Martenstein led the group in song accompanied by Bill Oppenheimer. Tom Martenstein then introduced visiting Rotarians and members’ guests.
New Member: Jeb Shell introduced Tom Nelson of Hargrove Engineers + Constructors as our newest Rotarian.
Program: Passing of the Gavel
More than two dozen past presidents of the Rotary Club were recognized as they passed the gavel from the oldest living president (Bartee Greer 1964-65) to our newest. The gavel was finally placed in the hands of Les Greer as a record number of Greer family members looked on.
Robby McClure then reminisced on a year spent “making good things happen thanks to good leaders and leadership.” He noted that the club is fiscally sound and this is in great part due to the impressive number of new members who joined over the last twelve months.
Les Greer then discussed his plans for the coming Rotary year. He praised the organization’s efforts in eradicating polio worldwide – from over 350,000 cases down to just 26. He announced that he is forming an Advisory Committee to be composed of past presidents and said he hopes to use their insights to make the club even better. Les said his goal is to increase membership to 300 – a 5% net increase. He reminded the members that our enthusiasm in Rotary is contagious.
Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 12:55 PM.
Tom McGehee

June 30, 2016 Minutes
Submitted by Tommy Fulton, Contributing Editor
Call to Order: The meeting was called to order by President Robby McClure. John Pisarkiewicz gave the invocation, followed by Gordon Korb, who led us in song, accompanied by Les Greer at the piano. Tom Martenstein introduced our guests along with visiting Rotarians.
Announcements: Les Greer made a presentation to Robbie McClure after visiting a Rotary Club celebrating its 104th year in existence. Ernest Ladd, IV reported on the Tarpon Tourney and the associated Captain’s meeting. The Captain’s meeting will take place of the July 28th regular lunch meeting and will be held that evening at Ruth’s Chris. The tournament is July 30th. The passing of the gavel will occur at the regular meeting on July 14th.
Program: Bob Chappelle introduced the speaker, Hayley Van Antwerp, who is the Executive Director of Innovation PortAL.
Innovation PortAL is charged with transforming Southwest Alabama into the innovation and entrepreneurial hub of the Gulf Coast. This effort was inspired by a similar effort in St. Louis. They will be serving start-up firms, as well as growing businesses. Therefore, Ms. Van Antwerp emphasized incubation and acceleration as the keys to success.
The effort will include a coding boot camp, which will aid those interested in the practical use of coding in order to obtain high tech jobs. Also, to help with product development, the speaker described a “souped-up” 3-D printing capability for prototypes. They will host a meet-up group, “Mobile MakerSpace”, which will encourage innovative interaction and partnering with 35 existing programs.
Access to funding sources will be an important asset, as well as collaborative office space. The emphasis will be on local organizations, who will grow from our own community. One example she used was Southern Light, described as “hyper-local.”
Before beginning this effort, studies by a well-respected consultant showed that our market will support such a process. Ms. Van Antwerp shared that they already have commitments for more than $2 million, and have applied for a grant of $2.9 million for the Economic Development Agency. Their future home will be in the Threaded Fastener building on St. Louis Street in downtown Mobile.
Ms. Van Antwerp finished with a Q&A session.
The meeting was adjourned at 1:00 pm.