Rondequoter

Terri Bastuk took notes tonight.   Thanks Terri!

Lily reminded us about the St. Patrick’s Day event on Wednesday, March 11th at St. Ann’s Home.  She would like Rotarians to be there by 6:15 pm to help bring residents downstairs.   We will be handing out carnations and enjoying Rochester Academy of Irish Dance.

Amber Wilk, secretary for the Greece Rotary Club stopped by to remind us about their Pasta dinner which took place on Sunday, March 8th.

In other news, Rochester Rotary reached out for assistance with another Citywide Service project.  It will take place at the Urban League of Rochester 265 North Clinton Ave, on Saturday, March 21st, from 8:00 am - 1:00 pm.  This is the same time as the Rochester Southwest breakfast at the Chili Diner, 949 Chili Avenue from 9:00 am -12:00 pm. Registration is required.  

General Announcements:
Our club needs to prepare a basket for the District Conference which will be held at Holiday Valley in Ellicottville, May 1-3, 2026.

Dave Shaheen shared that the reverse draw will be Wednesday, May 13th at Glendoveers.

Brandon appreciates the support of the club while he coaches lacrosse this spring. Steve will conduct the meetings in Brandon’s absence. 

Bob Scheidt shared that he is retiring on July 1st.  Party details to come. 

Kenn  is still looking for members to join PolioPlus.  He will do the paperwork. 
 

Christina Bartusek, Program Director for UpLift Irondequoit was our speaker. She shared that the organization is the primary advocate for prevention and reduction of youth substance in Irondequoit.  UpLift collaborates with many community partners (Town Officials,  School Districts, Police Department, Irondequoit Library and Rec Center, etc.) to implement programs that are related to the prevention and education of youth substance use. 

UpLift participates in activities such as Drug Take Back Day, National Night Out, youth kickball tournaments and hidden in plain sight demonstrations.  

When asked about current issues, Christina shared that vaping continues to be an issue with young teens and there is now a vape detection device that can be used in school bathrooms.  Some local businesses continue to sell flavored vapes which appeal to young users.  There is only a $250 fine for businesses who sell flavored vapes, and the fine doesn’t seem to be much of a deterrent. She also stated that more kids are struggling  with mental health, and they are self-medicating. 

UpLift is always looking for volunteers to assist with their events or participate on the board.

Hannah Kristensen from ROTEX District 7120 of the Finger Lakes Region stopped by the club.  ROTEX helps with the orientation of inbound and outbound exchange students.  The local group was founded in 2009. 

The ROTEX Club and Rotary Youth Exchange of the Finger Lakes are participating in a polar plunge on  April 12, 2026, at The Beachcomber on Conesus Lake.  This fundraiser supports local Rotary camps for children with disabilities and youth exchange programs and scholarships for students to participate in international youth exchange.   
 

Many fines for Dave’s management of the reverse draw, Bob’s retirement, the wonderful meal that was served tonight, Peter’s surgery, John, Peter for the outpouring of support he received.  Fines were put in for our speaker and our guests, foundation and polio.