Lindenhurst Rotary

Events

It was a night of fun, entertainment, information, fellowship and progress. For the first time the Lindenhurst Rotary Club joined with the Kiwanis Club of Lindenhurst to host our 8th Annual Community Fellowship Dinner.

Rotary President Jean Carney was unable to attend so Bill Smith, President Elect, filled in. We were honored to have, as our guest speaker, First Assistant Chief of the Lindenhurst Fire Department, Steven Smaldon. We enjoyed his highly informative presentation on hurricane preparedness and learned little known details about his Canine partner and more notably, best friend.

Evie, Rotary's past President and current Secretary provided an outstanding performance with her musical talent sharing center stage with her accompaniment, Terry and Chris Seidl.

Evie spoke on our involvement in various projects both locally and internationally and we especially thank the Kiwanis Club for their generous pledge to Lindenhurst Rotary's water project.

We were also honored with the presence of Suffolk Legislator, The Honorable Wayne Horsley and The Honorable Mayor of Lindenhurst, Tom Brennan, also a Lindenhurst Rotarian, along with members of the Village Board.

We thank all those who attended and shared this event and we look forward to a future of accomplishments.

Their mission statement:
"The Interfaith Nutrition Network addresses the issues of hunger and homelessness on Long Island by providing food, shelter, long-term housing and supportive services in a dignified and respectful manner for those who seek our help. We are a not-for-profit, volunteer-based organization with a dedicated staff, a broad base of community support and a commitment to educate the public about these issues." Following a wonderful presentation about the Interfaith Nutrition Network at one of our recent meetings, members set about spreading the word about the need for coats and gloves to stock the free boutique at the INN. Our community came through in a big way, keeping the staff at our designated drop off location, the Rainbow Center, busy accepting donations.  Along with coats, we received shoes, clothing, accessories, shampoo, soap and more!

On Thursday, February 21, members delivered a truckload of supplies to the INN and were provided a tour of the facility. To say the least we were amazed by the quality of both the facility and the service provided to these folks in need. The experience was truly humbling when arriving at 10:00 am, there was already a line of people, children included, that ran the length of the large main room. Most were patiently waiting their turn to "shop" in the boutique, others were registering for their turn at a shower.   Sad as this realization was, it was difficult to be too sad when standing in this main room with it's colorful artwork, of past events, hanging as mobiles from the ceiling and collages on the wall. Nothing goes to waste in this cheery place!

In the recesses of this large facility were the many volunteers busy stocking shelves and bins with donated items, preparing food, and carefully wrapping utensils in preparation for the lunch that would be served shortly.   It was almost disappointing that we weren't staying for lunch. Not only did everything look delicious, the cafeteria space was spotless and inviting!

Above left is District Governor, Bob Tedesco with Lindenhurst's new President, Jean Carney. Top right is Rotarian, and Lindenhurst's Mayor, Tom Brennan who recognized Neil Lederer, Lindenhurst's Superintendent of Schools and Monsignor Daniel Hamilton of OLPH for their outstanding service to our community. Bottom right, Jean performs one of her first jobs as President and passes her pin as President Elect to Bill Smith

District Governor Installs new officers, Bill Smith, President Elect, outgoing President, Evie Sosner as Secretary, Maryann Weckerle as Vice President, Doug Madlon as Treasurer and Carol Tanner as Sergeant At Arms.

And after the evening's business is complete, Lindenhurst's Rotarians pose for a picture as they let loose and enjoy the fellowship Rotarians are well known for throughout the World.

Lindenhurst Rotary held its annual Snapper Derby, an event that supports community fun and pride.

Lindenhurst Rotary Club welcomed Dave Ardam, at his official visit on 8/23. Dave is 2007-2008 District Governor for District 7260. Pictured left to right are, Ben Bathija, Maryann Weckerle, Jean Carney, Dave Ardam, Evie Sosna, Carol Tanner, Doug Madlon

Right are Jean Carney, Lindenhurst Rotary's new President, Barbara Poldino, Evie Sosner the new Secretary, Pat Chiodo, Anna Jaeger and center is Carol Taner the new Sgt. at Arms. The event was another successful and deeply appreciated Ice Cream Social held anually at the Rainbow Center.

District 7260 Conference was held in Gettysburg, PA this year and it was as informative as it was fun. The warmth and fellowship was enjoyed by all and the sights were educational and at times breath-taking. Here are a few pictures of the event and there are more in the photo album. Please enjoy.