Dr. Frederick Abramson (last week’s breakfast speaker) wants to end the single-mother poverty-pregnancy cycle. His background in business and genetic science led him to create Fresh Start Science as a new type of lifechanging program. This non-profit program starts by testing the mother and child for 100 different normal genes that show natural talents, tendencies and affinities.

The DNA cross-section identifies inputs to her personality, weight control, creativity, behavior and other everyday characteristics. This baseline blueprint becomes the working template for coaching and mentoring, which helps the single mother build self-esteem and a can-do attitude. The program then connects her to appropriate community resources to give her a fresh start in life. Participating single mothers will not be charged.

Paula Rothenberg (last week’s speaker) is passionate about her agency. The impact of a cancer diagnosis hit home for her when her father died of Leukemia and she became aware of the life-changing impact of dealing with cancer, as a patient and as a loved one. She helped create Hope Connections in 2007 so others could find solace in a caring community. It is a non-profit organization who helps people who have been diagnosed with cancer and their loved ones cope with the emotional impact of the disease through participation in professionally facilitated programs that provide emotional support, education, wellness and hope. Funded by the generous support of individuals, corporations and foundations, all programs are provided free of charge.

Last week’s club meeting featured the first club assembly of the new Rotary year, with reports by President Gary Lett, Vice President Joe DiPietro, Treasurer Steve Vaccarezza, and Directors Claes Ryn and Jim Manley. Unfortunately, about one half of the club’s officers and directors were absent.

President Gary reported that…..

1. the club’s roster book will not be renewed this year, and that its contents would be reproduced in the club’s web site. Lasse Syversen (our web manager) confirmed the plans;

2. All club members will be part of a committee to secure breakfast speakers;

3. Rob Follit will again be in charge of membership;

4. Gonzo Accame will head up our publicity committee.

There were reports from two directors—Claes Ryn on Vocational plans, and Jim Manley, International (no activity).

Treasurer Steve Vaccarezza presented a brief financial report which, in essence, assured the membership that its financial situation is in good shape, in addition to which the club has been able to transfer $5,000 to it foundation, with the possibility of another $2 to $5,000 (who needs a fund raiser!).

The final report was by Vice President Joe DiPietro and was perhaps the most important report of the morning as it treated the ongoing problem of raising funds. Last year’s results were most disappointing , and Joe spoke to the importance of setting goals, involving outsiders (non- Rotarians), better planning for the traditional bike ride events, and the importance of club members