Christensen Shares GSE Experience

OPENING: Donald Ira Pendleton was steadfast in his role as Sergeant-at-Arms meeting and greetings members and visitors to the 3768th meeting of SGR. Ray Robinson was back - after an unnerving bout with something-or-other which resulted in a hospital stay - leading the SGR Choir in a couple of verses of "Silent Night." Ken Seefeld invited members to follow him in the Pledge of Allegiance and Les Stoker asked for the blessings of heaven on the meeting and the meal. Greg Basso conducted Horseplay while Kris Neal collected the "filthy lucre" on behalf of 2108 children who will have a Christmas thanks to Coins for Kids.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: Jeff Morby, chairman of the Nominating Committee announced elections on Monday, January 4. Terance White and Phil Hall are running for the office of President Elect (Nominee) to serve in 2012-13. West Martin and Jenny McDowell are running unopposed for two positions on the SGR board and Linda Sappington is running unopposed for the office of secretary. Jeff opened nominations from the club, but none were made.

Ken Seefeld explained the new billing process for dues and voluntary donations, noting billings are now in advance to improve cash flow. Members will soon be receiving invoices for January, February and March. Any questions relating to this change in procedure may be discussed with Ken Seefeld or with President Ken Sizemore.

PROGRAM: Linda Baker introduced speaker Skyler Christensen, who recently returned from travel to Brazil as a member of Utah’s GSE team.

Merry Christmas 2009

President Ken Sizemore welcomed members and guests - whether they have been naughty or nice this year - to the annual Christmas party, also the 3768th meeting of St. George Rotary held this week at the Courtyard Marriott. Sandee Card invited members to follow her in the Pledge of Allegiance. Carl Lamar Rieck, in his second consecutive club meeting in at least a year took time off from his efforts to raise more than $125,000 for Coins for Kids to ask for the blessings of heaven on the meeting and the meal.
President Ken Sizemore announced Ray Robinson is home from the hospital recuperating while being treated with an aggressive regimen of antibiotics.

Jeff Morby announced the slate of candidates for the election scheduled for January 2. Candidates for the office of president in 2012-13 are Terance White and Phil Hall. Members nominated for a position on the board of directors include June McAfee and West Martin. Linda Sappington will run unopposed - unless there are nominations from the floor - for the office of secretary.

There will be no meeting on Monday, December 28.

When the meal was over, Shar Heitkotter and Greg Basso took over for a rollicking good time. Their creative minds resulted in the purchase of a gift for everyone - including a Geezer comb for Lee Sheets; a rubber mallet for Sam McArthur; disco earrings for Kerry Hepworth; New Testament flash cards for Debbie Justice; and, a bound copy of the club blog (with a few additions) chronicling his year as president for a grateful and somewhat emotional Jeff Morby.

Strobell Tells of International Project

OPENING: Donald Ira Pendleton conducted his Sergeant-at-Arms duties, including meeting and greetings members and visitors to the 3767th meeting of SGR, with his usual good humor. Ray Robinson lead the SGR Choir in "You’re A Grand Old Flag" in recognition of Pearl Harbor Day. West Martin invited members to follow him in the Pledge of Allegiance and Richard Isom asked for the blessings of heaven on the meeting and the meal. Sam McArthur conducted Horseplay and Debbie Justice collected the funds on behalf of Coins for Kids.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: President Ken read a few choice "thank you" notes for dictionaries sent by students at Diamond Valley Elementary School.

Chairman Greg Basso reminded members of SGR’s Christmas party which will be held at the Courtyard Marriott on Monday, December 14. Time is 11:45 a.m. - 2 p.m. Spouses are invited.

PROGRAM: Linda Baker introduced Dan Strobell, Chief Operating Officer at Sun First Bank and a longtime member of SGR who shared his experiences in Guatemala where he, his wife Cindy, their children and many friends have built homes and schools and put in hundreds of O’Niell stoves to help reduce the mortality rate among women and young children due to smoke inhalation and burns. Dan and Cindy, who have created the La Casita Foundation, believe the stove project is one more way "Rotary can change lives" and encouraged members of SGR to consider traveling to the central American country in May or June, 2010. The cost - which includes airfare, accommodations and food - is approximately $2500 per couple. See Dan for more information about this life-changing experience.

SGR Hears Optimistic Economic Forecast

OPENING: Jack Petersen managed Sergeant-at-Arms duties meeting and greetings members and visitors to the 3767th meeting of SGR. Ray Robinson lead the SGR Choir in the Christmas carol "Joy to the World." Christina Schultz invited members to follow her in the Pledge of Allegiance and Sam McArthur asked for the blessings of heaven on the meeting and the meal. Jeff Morby conducted Horseplay and Jack Petersen collected the "filthy lucre" on behalf of Coins for Kids.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: President Ken reminded board members of the upcoming meeting on Tuesday, December 8 at 7:15 a.m.

SGR’s Christmas party will be held at the Courtyard Marriott on Monday, December 14. Time is 11:45 a.m. - 2 p.m. A head count of members and spouses is required. Please call Shar, Ken or Linda Sappington to report the number.

PROGRAM: Ken Sizemore introduced today’s speaker. Lecia Langston, Southwest Utah economist from the Department of Workforce Services, shared her optimistic view of the economy, noting "the recession appears to have ended in the 3rd quarter of this year. We’re not all better yet, but we are in the recovery period." Quoting US President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Lecia said of the painful downturn in the local economy, "we’ve always known heedless self interest is bad morals, but now we know it is also bad economics." Among the local employment sector, the hardest hit for job losses were construction (with 2500 laid off) and manufacturing (with 650 jobs lost). Washington County, which for many years was Utah’s fastest growing county and one of the top ten fastest growing counties in the U.S., is now Utah’s slowest growing with the state's highest number of foreclosed homes and housing permits down by more than 50% from 2008 with only 443 permits issued through September 2009. For more information on the economic future for Washington County, see http://www.jobs.utah.gov/ or contact Lecia by e-mail at mailto:lecialangston@utah.gov.

SGR Hears of DRMC's Success and Needs

OPENING: The 3766th meeting of SGR was held at the Dixie Center where the Jubilee of Trees was in its final day. Ray Robinson lead the SGR Choir in a rousing rendition of "America, the Beautiful." Donald Ira Pendleton asked for the blessings of heaven on the meeting and the meal.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: President Ken reminded board members of the upcoming meeting on Tuesday, December 8 at 7:15 a.m.

PROGRAM: Terri Draper, Rotarian and Public Relations Director at Dixie Regional Medical Center, introduced CEO Terri Kane, recently named Intermountain Health Care’s Manager of Distinction. Of her boss, Terri Draper noted, "Terri gives tirelessly to the hospital and doesn’t ask her staff to do anything she wouldn’t do!" The CEO noted, of Dixie Regional Medical Center’s goal to raise sufficient funds to own their own Life Flight helicopter, "98% of ill babies and cardiac patients can be treated right here, but we still make 400-600 flights to the Wasatch Front every year." She also noted the attention Intermountain Health Care has received from the White House in the current discussions on health care reform. "We measure everything we do," states Kane. "Our primary C-section rate has dropped from 20% to 8% because we discourage early inductions." Looking at the Utah model for health care, Kane indicated "coverage is the key, but payment reforms are essential and we are looking at ways to reduce administrative costs while strengthening our ability to provide health information through technology and must address the Medicare physician payment formula. Utah is at the bottom for reimbursement from Medicare."

Kane also reviewed the number of national awards and recognitions received by Dixie Regional Medical Center, including the Health Insights Quality Award for achievements in improving patient care. DRMC, recipient for three consecutive years, is the only hospital in Utah and Nevada to receive this award. The hospital has also been recognized among the Top 30 US hospitals for cardiac care and was in Soliant Health’s Top 20 "Most Beautiful Hospitals."

Club Assembly Reports Board Activities

OPENING: Bob Bramlage managed Sergeant-at-Arms duties greeting Rotarians and guests to the 3765th meeting of SGR. Ray Robinson lead the SGR Choir in a rousing rendition of "You’re A Grand Old Flag." Richard Isom invited members to follow him in the Pledge of Allegiance and Terance White asked for the blessings of heaven on the meeting and the meal.

Ken Sizemore conducted Horseplay on behalf of the dictionary project. Fines were collected by Ken Seefeld.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: President Ken Sizemore read a thank you card from Ada Ann Pratt for kindnesses shown her family by members of SGR following the death of Rotarian Lee Pratt.

Kyle Case was elected to fill the board seat vacated by Jerry Rasmussen.

Greg Basso reminded members of their opportunity to purchase wheelchairs during the holiday season. Last year, SGR members donated 28 chairs. See Greg for more information.

Reed Noble expressed appreciation for help in distributing dictionaries to 3rd graders throughout the district and encouraged members who have still not completed their assignment, to do so before Thanksgiving.

PROGRAM: Because the scheduled speaker did not show up, President Ken called for a Club Assembly asking board members to report on activities relating to their assignments. President-elect Grant Carter announced plans for a competitive membership drive.

Terance White explained the process for nominating new members and encouraged the club to consider those within their circle of influence for membership.

Bill Fowler, who oversees club PR, noted he has scheduled announcements about Rotary meetings, including the date, time and scheduled speaker, on the Spectrum’s community calendar.

Jeff Morby was enthusiastic about ongoing plans to landscape the SK8 Park and his hopes for expanding membership. He also announced the Utah Rotary District Conference golf tournament on Thursday, May 13, 2010 and encouraged members to put a team (or two) together, with proceeds going to Polio Plus to meet the polio challenge.

Linda Sappington reminded SGR the club’s all time high was 118 members. Today there are 73 members with 4 honorary members but about 20% of club members have not participated in any club activities this year. She also reminded members of the upcoming Utah Rotary District Conference, May 13-15, 2010 in St. George and asked for support for the event.

Ken Seefeld acknowledged Kris Neal for her efforts to organize the club’s financial records - noting bills for the first quarter of 2010 will be sent electronically on December 1. He also reminded members of their opportunity to donate above and beyond their dues by making a voluntary contribution to EREY ("Every Rotarian, Every Year") and to Polio Plus.

SGR Learns of HWSG's Success and Future Plans

OPENING: Sergeant-at-Arms Donald Ira Pendleton greeted Rotarians and guests to the 3764th meeting of SGR. Ray Robinson lead the SGR Choir through both verses of "Home on the Range." Richard Brown invited members to follow him in the Pledge of Allegiance and President-elect Grant Carter asked for the blessings of heaven on the meeting and the meal.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: Nick Lang was pleased to introduce Kristen Nelson, new Rotaract President at Dixie State College.
President Ken Sizemore read a note of thanks from Jan Dunham for Rotary support during this difficult time following the death of her husband and Rotarian Don Dunham.

Ken also noted he and board members Phil Hall, Terance White and PDG Jim Coleman all flew to Provo for Saturday’s foundation meeting. He shared with members of SGR the award received for club support of the Polio Plus Challenge to match the Gates donation of $355 million. Only four countries remain with new cases of polio: Nigeria, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and India. Club members are invited to consider traveling to India for an immunization day program. See Ken for more information.

June McAfee announced receipt of the dictionaries. The books are labeled and ready for distribution before Thanksgiving. See June for school assignments.

PROGRAM: Linda Baker introduced Kyle Case, Rotarian and Executive Director of the Huntsman World Senior Games who shared details about the recent 21st annual games (October 4-18) involving "a higher risk" group of athletes. Calling his second year as the Executive Director "incredible" Kyle reminded SGR the games began in 1987 when John and Daisy Morgan were looking for an event which would fill their hotel with participants. In the first year, the number of participant athletes was somewhere between 150 and 200! "Today we are the largest multi-sports event, for people over age 50, in the world." The Games include 26 sports and this year, 8971 athletes "slightly down from last year," 317 softball teams, 127 volleyball teams and brought 2006 new athletes to St. George for the first time. Athletes come from all 50 states, with Utah the #1 state based on the number of athletes competing, followed by California, Washington, Arizona and Colorado. The #1 country, based on the number of participants is Canada, followed by Venezuela, Barbados, Russia and Germany.

Kyle (front row, in blue t-shirt) noted he is very pleased with new innovations in 2009, including a redesigned website and an online registration system, new medals and 3 new countries (Bolivia, Estonia and Virgin Islands) bringing the total number of countries participating, to date, to 61! Based on the state’s formula, Kyle believes the games provided an economic impact of more than $9,300,000 this year. He will be recruiting in China this year in preparation for the 2010 games and his staff is busy preparing for a volleyball "friendship tour"

Members of SGR can help in several ways. According to Kyle "first, you can compete!" Go to the website at http://www.seniorgames.net/ to sign up. Other ways to help include volunteering, being a supporter and a spectator, being an ambassador sharing information and enthusiasm, or being a sponsor. For more information, call Kyle at 674-0550.

All Clubs Hear Future Vision Plan

OPENING: Sergeant-at-Arms Donald Ira Pendleton greeted Rotarians and guests to the 3763rd meeting of SGR. Ray Robinson lead the SGR Choir in a spirited rendition of "America, the Beautiful." Bob Bramlage invited members to follow him in the Pledge of Allegiance and PDG Jim Coleman asked for the blessings of heaven on the meeting and the meal.

PROGRAM: President Ken Sizemore welcomed members of St. George Rotary, Dixie Sunrise Rotary, Red Rock Rotary and Hurricane Rotary, in attendance to hear from Fred Berthrong, Chairman of the District Rotary Foundation. The PDG from Logan noted The Rotary Foundation logo and the Rotary International logo are equal size and shape, indicating the importance of each to the other. Since its inception, TRF has provided funding to support 40,000 Ambassadorial Scholars, 400 Peace Fellows; 30,000 matching grants averaging about $20,000 each; and, inoculated more than 2 billion children to bring about a 99% reduction in the incidence of polio worldwide. "In one day, Rotarians throughout India inoculated 175,000,000 children. We are the ‘boots on the ground,’" said an enthusiastic Berthrong. "But we aren’t doing everything right!"

According to the state leader, Rotarians do not have enough direct control over foundation funds. Processing of grants is slow. Rotarians have good projects, but many are not self sustaining; and, there is not enough partnering between other organizations.

The Future Vision Plan, involving 100 pilot districts - including District 5420 which Berthrong called "a dinky little place in the middle of nowhere but where things get done!" - is a 3-year trial program (2010-2013). The Future Vision Plan will provide for improved efficiency in getting funds into the hands of those who can do the most good; create larger, more sustainable projects; use Rotary’s credibility capital; and, partner with big players around the world.

The six areas of focus in the Future Vision Plan are:
- peace and conflict resolution
- water and sanitation
- mother and children
- basic education and literacy
- disease prevention and treatment
- economic development

Funding to meet the goals of the Future Vision Plan will come from EREY (Every Rotarian, Every Year giving $100 extra in voluntary contributions), more Paul Harris Fellows ($1000 each); an increase in membership in the Paul Harris Society ($1000 or more annually); and, meeting the Polio Challenge to match the $355 million donation from the Gates Foundation.

For more information about the programs of The Rotary Foundation or where the most need is in the world, Fred Berthrong can be reached at pdg5420@gmail.com.

Harding Says Slow Down and Hang Up

OPENING: Sergeant-at-Arms Donald Ira Pendleton greeted Rotarians and guests to the 3762nd meeting of SGR. Ray Robinson lead the SGR Choir in a gentle rendition of "Auld Lang Syne" in honor of Don Dunham and Lee Pratt, both who passed away this week. West Martin invited members to follow him in the Pledge of Allegiance and PDG Sterling Spafford asked for the blessings of heaven on the meeting and the meal. Bill Fowler conducted a fast-paced Horseplay with fines, in support of the Dictionary project, collected by Shar Heitkotter.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: Grant Carter, conducting in the absence of President Ken Sizemore, reminded members Fred Berthrong will speak on the subject of the RI Foundation at an All Clubs meeting at the Holiday Inn on Monday, November 2.

Nominees to fill the vacated seat as Service Chairman include West Martin and Kyle Case. Elections will be held next week.

YouthLINC has 9 applicants from southern Utah so sponsors are needed to send students to Thailand, Peru, Mexico, Kenya. For more information or to sponsor a student, contact Mike Welder or YouthLINC.

PROGRAM: Jeannine Holt introduced Craig Harding of the SGPD. He shared some graphic and occasionally disturbing videos taken of accidents involving speed, or where drivers were distracted with cell phones (which increase the incidence of accidents by 400%), or when drivers were not wearing seat belts. According to Harding, his job is to convince drivers to change their behavior to reduce injury accidents. "Stop trying to make it through the yellow light! Stop using cell phones behind the wheel. Watch for motorcycles and other oncoming vehicles by looking left, right and left again. Back off, slow down and wear seat belts!"

Saying Goodbye

St. George Rotary lost two fine members in October. Leland ("Lee") Pratt, who became a Rotarian in May 1994, passed away on Monday, October 19. Donald ("Don") Dunham, a member since April 2005, passed away on Tuesday, October 20, 2009.

Don was born and raised in Los Angeles. He served in the U. S. Air Force during the Korean War. After his time in Korea, he used his GI benefits to study and graduate from Los Angeles State College, then in 1963 he joined Life Circulation Company, a subsidiary of Time, Inc. The firm later changed its name to DialAmerica Marketing. In his 25-year career with the company, Don became Senior Vice President of Marketing. In 1964, he met and married Janet Dial Nowling. They had two sons, Robert and Richard. Throughout his lifetime, Don was actively involved with several service organizations including Civitan International, Exchange Club and Rotary Club. Don was an ordained deacon and active member of Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church of St. George, Utah which congregation he and Jan joined after retiring to southern Utah in 1989.

Lee was raised by his grandparents and educated in California, then joined the U.S. Air Force in 1950 where he attained the rank of Chief Master Sergeant (Rtd). He served in the Air Force for more than 27 years, including a tour of duty in Korea and 3 tours in Vietnam, where at one time he was the wingman to Air Force legend Chuck Yeager. Lee earned many ribbons and medals during his military service and also spent 17 years overseas with his family in Germany, England, Turkey, and other locales. After Janice, his wife of 36 years, passed away, he met and married Ada Ann Pendleton Wulfenstein and in their 20 years together they successfully blended their family of "military and missionaries." Lee loved to bar-be-que and was most happy when everyone in the family stopped by for dinner. He also loved family reunions, Dutch oven cooking, gardening, hunting with his favorite gun (he called "Old Meat in the Pot"), being a Salvation Army bellringer, garage sales, libraries, genealogy, a good joke, community service in the Huntsman World Senior Games, Ducks Unlimited, Rotary; and, his church. He taught gun safety and wilderness survival, was an avid reader, always a gentleman; cherished his wife and family; and never met a stranger!

As Rotarians, it was our great pleasure to enjoy the company of these two fine men for several years. They will be missed.

SGR Makes A Difference at SK8 Park

Rotarians Allen Hilton, Dan McArthur, Jim Coleman, Reed Noble, Grant Carter, Sam McArthur, Bill Fowler, Richard Isom, Grant Carter, Jeff Morby and Linda Sappington gave up a portion of their Saturday, October 24 to "Make A Difference" at the St. George skate park, also known as SK8 George Park. When the dust had settled, 23 trees had been positioned along the road and many shrubs had been planted at the entrance around the beautiful new Rotary SK8 Park sign.

Make-A-Difference Day is one of several national service days held annually in communities all over the United States. Held on the last Saturday of October every year since 1990, Make-A-Difference Day is an opportunity for Americans of every age and interest to do good in their community. Other national service days include Martin Luther King / Civil Rights Day (the third Monday in January), Global Youth Service Day (either Saturday during April’s National Volunteer Week), Join Hands Day (in late May or early June), DoGood Day (September 11 since 2001 in memory of those who died in the attack on America) . . . and Family Volunteer Day, the next opportunity to join in a national volunteer initiative (held annually on the Saturday before Thanksgiving).

Thanks, once again, for your willingness to give "service above self" in the community. Watch for information about National Family Volunteer Day on Saturday, November 21.

SGR Meets More Candidates

OPENING: Sergeant-at-Arms Donald Ira Pendleton greeted Rotarians and guests. Ray Robinson lead the SGR Choir in a gentle rendition of "America, the Beautiful" to open the 3761st meeting of SGR. PDG Doug Quayle invited members to follow him in the Pledge of Allegiance and PDG Eldon McArthur asked for the blessings of heaven on the meeting and the meal. Greg Basso conducted a lucrative Horseplay with fines, in support of the Dictionary project, collected by Jack Petersen.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: President-elect Grant Carter noted district funds for the dictionary project have been received. June McAfee encouraged participation by club members is distributing the books to assigned schools.

Grant also reminded members Fred Berthrong will speak on the subject of the RI Foundation at an All Clubs meeting at the Holiday Inn on Monday, November 2.

Board members are encouraged to attend the District Membership / Foundation Workshop on Saturday, November 7 in Provo. Watch for more details.

Greg Basso showed his framed Paul Harris Fellow certificate and medallion indicating a local framer did the work and is willing to do the same for other interested Rotarians.

PROGRAM: Terance White introduced three of four candidates running for a seat on the St. George City Council. First to speak, incumbent Suzanne Allen commented on SGR’s "dwindling club membership" and expressed her desire to return to membership in the club in the future. Now in her 4th term in office, "I was in my 1st term when plans for the new replacement airport were put into place . . . and I want to see it finished!" She also noted receipt of $70 million in federal dollars for the completion of an overpass from Dixie Drive to the Dixie Center. "We are players now and we have a seat at the table," said Allen of St. George’s place in Utah government. "We received government stimulus money because we were prepared to receive it with ‘shovel ready’ projects, but we (the city council) still has unfinished projects and ideas we’d like to develop."

Gail Bunker has served six years on the city council and considers herself to be "an advocate for the citizens of this community. I have no regrets about the decisions I’ve made . . . the votes I’ve cast, even when I’ve been the lone voice on the council." Bunker indicated she has been involved in the "Art Around the Corner" project in the historic downtown district and in encouraging the city to hire a fulltime curator at the St. George Art Museum, but "the economy continues to be a huge community problem."

Jimmie Hughes, the challenger for a seat on the city council, is a cattle rancher and a lifetime resident of Washington County. "I think we can all appreciate what our local elected officials have been able to accomplish, but it’s OK to vote for a new face who can see things with a new set of eyes and who has new ideas for the future of the city." Referencing Rotary’s 4-Way Test, Hughes indicated "especially 'is it beneficial to all concerned' should be a litmus test for the city council as well as for Rotarians."

SGR Hears from Mayoral Candidates

OPENING: Sergeant-at-Arms Donald Ira Pendleton greeted Rotarians and guests. Ray Robinson lead the SGR Choir in a tender rendition of "My Country, Tis of Thee" to open the 3760th meeting of SGR. Andy Anderson invited members to follow him in the Pledge of Allegiance and Linda Sappington asked for the blessings of heaven on the meeting and the meal. Bob Bramlage conducted a rousing Horseplay with fines, in support of the Dictionary project, collected by Kurt Johnson.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: President Ken Sizemore reminded members Fred Berthrong will speak on the subject of the RI Foundation at an All Clubs meeting at the Holiday Inn on Monday, November 2.

Board members are encouraged to attend the District Membership / Foundation Workshop on Saturday, November 7 in Provo. Watch for more details.

PROGRAM: Jeannine Holt introduced St. George City mayoral candidates Dan McArthur and Ed Baca. The challenger, Baca is a former police officer who was named Officer of the Year by a Rotary club in his California community after he arrested members of a local gang. His career in law enforcement began at age 20. He has a Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and throughout his career he helped organize such programs as "Community First," "Neighborhood Watch" and a victims assistance program. He says if elected he would probably not change much, but would have a completely different approach in administrative techniques. "I would check and double check, evaluate every department and would be the city manager’s new best friend. And, I have a lot of concern about the city council’s practice of rubber stamping every decision the mayor makes."

Incumbent Dan McArthur, seeking a 4th term as mayor, has deep roots in the community, has learned a great deal as he has watched the city grow up around his family and still has "fire in my belly" for the work of city government. In his 15 years as mayor - and 10 years before that on the city council - McArthur has guided the city’s growth, including the development of a new 1200 acre replacement airport. "Why switch horses in the middle of the stream? Look around you. If you like what you see, I stand on my record. If you have concerns, I’d like to hear about them. Just don’t forget to vote on November 3."

Meet Rotarian Debbie Justice

One of the newest members of SGR is Debbie Justice, the Executive Director and principle grant writer for The Learning Center for Families. A fluent Spanish-speaker - who also speaks a little Japanese -Justice has a great sense of humor and a penchant for fun.

This petite professional woman with a Masters in Family Support Studies is a Paul Harris Fellow and a former secretary of the Red Rock Rotary Club. She was sponsored by Linda Sappington with a classification of Social Services.

Justice, whose hobbies include "volunteering and work," is a transplanted Californian who came to St. George in 1993 to oversee the private, non-profit agency which provides support services through an Early Intervention program to families of children birth to three years of age with signs of developmental delay. Contracted by the Utah Department of Health, The Learning Center for Families works with low-income pregnant women and families who reside in Washington County, Utah, and Colorado City/Centennial Park/Cane Beds, Arizona. She currently serves on the Utah State Interagency Coordinating Council overseeing services for toddlers and the Utah State Head Start Association.

What's Up at Dixie is Program Theme

Donald Ira Pendleton greeted visitors and Rotarians to the 3759th meeting of SGR. After a rousing rendition of "Are You From Dixie" led by Sam McArthur, Paula Bell invited members to follow her in the Pledge of Allegiance. Steve Radmall asked for the blessings of heaven on the meeting and the meal. Grant Carter took the podium for an energetic Horseplay while Jack Petersen collected fines on behalf of Operation School Bell.

The program included Christina Schultz,Vice President of Institutional Advancement; George Whitehead, Assoc. VP of Advancement and Cultural Arts; and Janet O’Riley, Director of Community Education who shared the podium for a presentation on “What’s Happening at Dixie.” They reported the following:

ENROLLMENT
DSC has experienced unprecedented enrollment growth.
Total budget-related FTE is currently at 25% ( highest percentage increase in the Utah System of Higher Education).
Upper division FTE (from spring 2008-2009) was up 46%.
DSC has the largest ever freshman class.

DEGREES
President Nadauld and Academic Vice President Donna Dillingham Evans, have developed a comprehensive plan to roll out degrees over the next few years.
Start date of Fall 2009: (1) music (2) respiratory therapy
Anticipated start date of January 2010: (1) physical therapy assistant (2) psychology
Anticipated start date of Fall 2010: (1) theater (2) theater education (3) music education
Spring 2010 (Regent Submission): (1) math/math education (2) CIT redesign
Nursing has been successfully accredited for 8 years.
Operations Management is underway with a $2.1 million grant and being delivered as part of a DSC/DXATC/SWATC partnership.
Green Construction Management which is a tri-county (Washington, Kane, and Iron) initiative and partnership between DSC/DXATC/SWATC is currently seeking funding.

FACILITIES
Renovations to the O.C. Tanner Amphitheater have been completed due to a generous grant from the O.C. Tanner Foundation.
Sculpture Garden is nearing completion.
New testing center renovation has been completed.
Jennings Communication Building ribbon cutting took place on Sept. 24th. Communication is the fastest growing degree at DSC. It now has 260 majors (more than any other Communications program in the state of Utah).
DSC has a new classical music station (KXDS 91.3 FM).
Dick Nourse Center for Media Innovation is a production company run by students under the direction of DSC faculty. It is the only one of its kind in the United States.
CEC has acquired a new mobile TV production truck which is used to broadcast athletic events around the country and to train students in a hands-on way.
The new Centennial Commons will be the “hub” of the DSC campus and be a cornerstone for advancing DSC to university status.

ATHLETICS
Teams are playing well as evidenced by a very close game with Montana State.
The new Red Storm logo was shown.

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES
Hall of Fame will be held on Oct. 10th at the Tabernacle. Corey Dillon and Patricia Holland will be honored.
Homecoming will be held on Oct. 10th (parade, tailgate, football game, alumni banquet). Jeffrey R. Holland will be the banquet speaker.
The “Business of Art” is a one-day FREE seminar to be held in Kanab for artists and aspiring artists. This will help them enhance their business skills. Speakers from Salt Lake City, Cedar City, St. George, and Kanab will be presenting.
DOCUTAH – The Southern Utah International Documentary Film Festival – will be held from Sept. 16-25, 2010 in St. George and Kanab. The opening gala will be at Tuacahn. There will be a special screening at the O.C. Tanner Amphitheater.

DSC INVOLVEMENT
There are many involvement opportunities with DSC. Christina invited all those involved in the following to stand up: Rotary Bowl, Athletics, Alumni, Scholarship Associates, NAC, Adjunct Faculty, Dixie College Foundation, and Institute for Business Integrity. DSC has involvement opportunities for everyone in any area of interest.

Rotarians at Play

On the community’s busiest weekend of the year, SGRotarians brought their "best ghoul" (or guy), lots of little ghosts and goblins, and their own "inner child" to enjoy the fall evening of October 2 in "agri-taining" play. At the Staheli Family Farm, there were things to ride, things to pet, and things to eat, including a great dinner by Staheli Catering, but the most fun was getting lost in the darkness of a 20-acre, 3-in-1 Corn MaiZE.

Corn mazes actually began in 17th century Europe as formal garden mazes for the wealthiest castles and palaces to amuse kings and princesses. In 1996, Brett Herbst, a BYU graduate in agribusiness, took the concept to a whole new level when he introduced THE MaIZE, the largest human-size cornfield maze in the western United States. In 13 years, he has designed more than 1200 mazes, including the Dixie Lions Round-up design at Staheli Farm. Each design challenges visitors seeking to find their way through the twists and turns. Thrillseekers fortunate enough to stumble onto the correct pathways have exited the maze in less than 30 minutes, but the more directionally-challenged - including the Sappington and Isom families - have wandered the puzzle for up to 3 hours.

In the cold darkness of Saturday morning, October 3, a few hearty Rotarians also enjoyed the chance to take part in the 23rd Annual St. George Mayor’s Walk, as part of the activities of the St. George Marathon. Though the crowd - including business people, school mates, friends, families and lots of dogs - was much smaller than usual, they were no less enthusiastic as Rotarian and St. George City Mayor Dan McArthur sounded the horn at 7 a.m. at Bluff Street Park and led the walk to the finish line at Vernon Worthen Park - only slightly ahead of the winning wheelchair racer.

Playing together is another benefit of membership in St. George Rotary and a great way to "build goodwill and friendship!"

School District Tells of Flu Precautions

OPENING: Sergeant-at-Arms Donald Ira Pendleton greeted Rotarians and guests. Ray Robinson lead the SGR Choir in a spirited rendition of "You’re A Grand Old Flag" to open the 3759th meeting of SGR. Richard Brown invited members to follow him in the Pledge of Allegiance and Paula Bell asked for the blessings of heaven on the meeting and the meal. Grant Carter conducted an rousing Horseplay with fines, in support of Operation School Bell, collected by Nick Lang.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: President Ken reminded members of the Rotary Family Party at Staheli Farm / Corn Maze to Friday, October 2. Watch for more details.

Rotarian Gene Jones has two pinched nerves in his back and is unable to drive.

Fred Berthrong will speak on the subject of the RI Foundation at the Monday, November 2 meeting of SGR.

Ken Seefeld told members the Holiday Inn charges per plate. Members who may take 2 plates cost the club an additional $12 per week.

Board members are encouraged to attend the District Membership Workshop on Saturday, November 7 in Provo. Watch for more details.

NEW MEMBER: Darrell Wright, sponsored by Steve Radmall and initiated by Ken Sizemore, became SGR’s newest member in a ceremony before club members. Darrell is the 76th member of the club.

PROGRAM: Dr. LuAnn Forrest, Students Services Director for the Washington County School District shared the district’s planning for the H1N1 flu pandemic. With more than 25,000 students and 1300 teachers and faculty in five cities, it is imperative for the district to "mitigate, prepare, respond and recover. Every classroom is equipped with a backpack, a go kit and a flipchart outlining emergency procedures," notes the educator. "We are currently dealing with a flu pandemic Level 6 which means you can’t go anywhere in the world without being exposed."

Forrest noted the district is currently taking all necessary precautions, but schools remain open. As the virus continues to affect students, faculty, families and neighbors, the district will take a more aggressive approach such as screening students at the classroom door, increasing time spent at home after diagnosis, keeping family members of infected students home, or dismiss at-risk students (even if they have no symptoms).

H1N1 is highly contagious with the highest death rate among those in the 15-55 age groups, particularly those who are pregnant, obese or with chronic respiratory problems.

Symptoms include a fever of 101 or higher, cough, sore throat, aches and joint pain, fatigue and weakness, headache, diarrhea, vomiting, stuffy nose or any combination thereof.

To reduce the possibility of contamination or contaminating others, cough into your shoulder or sleeve, wash hands regularly and get a flu shot. The seasonal flu shot is available now. The H1N1 shot will be available in late October or early November. For more information, see http://www.wcsd.org/ on the internet or contact the Southwest Utah Public Health Department.

SGR Learns It's Not Easy Being Green

OPENING: Sergeant-at-Arms Donald Ira Pendleton greeted Rotarians and guests. Ray Robinson lead the SGR Choir in a harmonious rendition of "America, the Beautiful" to open the 3758th meeting of SGR. Richard Brown invited members to follow him in the Pledge of Allegiance and Allen Hilton asked for the blessings of heaven on the meeting and the meal. Terance White conducted an energetic Horseplay with fines, in support of Operation School Bell, collected by Jack Petersen.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: President Ken announced a date change for the Rotary Family Party at Staheli Farm / Corn Maze to Friday, October 2. Watch for more details.

PROGRAM: Linda Baker introduced Jim Coleman, a former Utah Rotary District Governor, the former Executive Director of the Dixie Rotary Bowl, and most recently designated as a Green Realtor. According to Jim, "we, as a community and a nation, must do a better job of managing our resources and our energy." The principal broker at ERA Brokers Consolidated Real Estate indicated the Southern Utah Home Builders Association has offered two course in green building, with "green" defined as energy efficient and environmentally friendly practices to lessen the impact of society on the earth. Calling "green the new gold," Jim noted it is currently more expensive to build green because of the add-on requirements for builders. "Is it worth it," the realtor questioned. "The jury is still out!" But, he added, "the time is coming when, in order to sell a home, an evaluation will be required to determine the level of green!"

What are the benefits of Green Design?
- Lower insurance rates because of reduced risk of mold and other environmental hazards
- Flexible design cuts cost of moving employees
- Interactive, well-planned design can avoid errors and delays
- Enhances the existing built environment leading to higher rent
- Green features increase the asset value and brings a higher sales price

For more information on local efforts to go green, see:
* sgcity.org/conservation/
* sgcity.org/energyservices/
* SGSunSmart.com
* Dixiepower.com
* washco.utah.gov/energy.php
* Swenergy.org

Rotarians Honored

Rotarians Linda Baker, Jeannine Holt and Linda Sappington were recently recognized as "Women of Excellence" by the local chapter of Business and Professional Women. Linda Baker was honored as the Professional Woman of the Year in her position as Vice President of Workers Compensation Fund. She currently serves on the board of director for the Southern Utah Home Builders Association, the Washington County Economic Development Council and has been involved for many years with the Chamber of Commerce. Jeannine Holt was recognized in the area of Philanthropy for her lifetime of service to the Republican Party. Linda Sappington was named Public Service Woman of the Year for her efforts as the director of the Volunteer Center of Washington County; as the "mother" of the Jubilee of Trees, and for her ongoing support of numerous community organizations. Congratulations to these three Rotarians who exemplify the true Rotary spirit of "service above self."

Esplin Addresses Planning Myths and Truths

OPENING: Ray Robinson lead the SGR Choir in two verses of "America" to kick off the 3757th meeting of SGR. June McAfee invited members to follow her in the Pledge of Allegiance and Dan Strobell asked for the blessings of heaven on the meeting and the meal. In the interest of time and a full agenda, President Ken called for a 1099 in the amount of $2 per member in support of Operation School Bell.

ANNOUNCEMENTS: President Ken announced receipt of $1221 in funding for this year’s dictionary project. June McAfee will chair the project again this year and distributed a sign up sheet inviting members to participate in getting dictionaries out to 3rd graders in the community.

Thursday evening, October 1 has been tentatively set as the date for the club’s summer family party. This year, it will be held at the Corn Maze at Staheli Farm. Watch for more information.

Thanks to Donald Ira Pendleton for accepting the assignment to serve as the club’s Sergeant-at-Arms.

President Ken was pleased to distribute Paul Harris awards to five members of the club. Grant Carter and Phil Hall received their first Paul Harris award. June McAfee and Ken Seefeld were honored for the second time, and Ruby Robinson was awarded through the payment of $1000 to RI’s Annual Programs Fund by her husband Ray.

PROPOSED NEW MEMBER: Darrell Wright has been proposed for membership by Steve Radmall. Any comments regarding this new membership should be directed to a member of the board.

PROGRAM: Jeannine Holt introduced Gary Esplin, the longest serving City Manager in the state of Utah. He reported difficult economic times have been hard on the city which has seen a drop of $100,000 in car sales and the overbuilding of commercial properties, many which are standing empty. He noted, too, this situation has been "a wake up call for the city and we are working hard to keep the city on track." He reported the city will host the Iron Man competition for the next five years and "we are working to bring more baseball and soccer to the area."

He reported, too, that stimulus funds from the federal government have been used to re-do Blackridge Drive and to develop a "significant exchange as part of the new airport project." He also noted "the passage of the cap and trade bill will significantly affect St. George due to the city’s use of coal fire energy." Other projects on the books or in process include a firestation at the Atkinville interchange. The new airport is on schedule for completion in January 2013 and expected to come in below the original projected cost of $125 million, which includes federal funds and proceeds from the $43.6 million sale of the old airport. The 1200 acre airport will support regional jets, 737 aircraft and the airbus 319, "but never was intended to be an international airport." Quoting Josiah Charles Stamp, the city manager said the city tries to look forward in its planning because "its easy to dodge our responsibilities, but we cannot dodge the consequences of dodging our responsibilities."