An event filled meeting for Wednesday March 30, 2016.   After the sweat filled work out led by President Nasrin, Steve Scerra recognized members whose Rotary anniversary was in March. 
  • Nora Giralt - 1 year
  • Jim Stickler – 4 years
  • Bill Gard – 8 years
  • Nasrin Moghadasian – 11 years
  • Ernie O’Dell – 34 years
  • Ted Wendorf – 59 years!
Our speaker was Cozette Vergari.  Cozette spoke about Rotary attracting new, young professionals to membership and staying relevant as an organization.
She asked the assembly for their ideas on staying relevant.  Suggestions were: Maintain a positive spirit; Stay physically, mentally and emotionally engaged; Be useful to others; Be open and adaptable to change.
She spoke about a new membership classification, Young Professional.  This designation has only two requirements, that they pay the RI dues and they are less than 40 years old.  The local club may define all other terms of membership, with the objective of being flexible about finances and meetings.
Cozette’s Club, Westchester, has allowed Young Professionals to meet separately outside the club for a less costly meal and to participate as they choose in the Club events.  However, these individuals are full members and are asked to serve on committees and participate in the club activities.  Westchester has attracted 10 members into this program.
She also described the results of the Rotary Summit at UC Berkeley.  The attendees were separated the first day by age, under and over 40, and asked to develop a list of concerns and suggestions.  When the two groups were combined on the second day, their lists were very similar.
Cozette emphasized that Young Professionals want to be respected for their knowledge, experience and capabilities and be listened to as equals.  They also want to learn from the more mature members.
For her wrap-up, President Nasrin encouraged everyone to eat better and include oranges and nuts In their daily diet.