Bob Holert introduced our BBRC’s own Steve Waltar, estate planning attorney and novice mount climber. Steve’s topic was “Conditioning and Philanthropy: Climbing Mount Rainier while Supporting Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research”.  Katherine DeStephano gave an update on the 2013 Bellevue 10K/5K Run and Kids Dash to be held April 28, 2013.  Ruben Ladlad, Director of Community Service gave an overview of most of BBRC Community Service annual activities/projects

Bob Holert introduced our BBRC’s own Steve Waltar, estate planning attorney and novice mount climber. Steve’s topic was “Conditioning and Philanthropy: Climbing Mount Rainier while Supporting Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research”.

Steve recently fulfilled a dream by climbing Mount Rainier with a friend and small guided team. At the same time, he was raising money for Fred Hutchinson research work to fight breast cancer. A number of members indicated they had made the climb in their “more youthful state”. His presentation covered both the conditioning and training for the climb as well as the climb. The day of the climb was clear and sunny which resulted in a number of great pictures in all directions. He provided a lot of show and tell about climbing equipment and the little things that make or break your chance to reach the summit. He had a great visual map of the climb and multiple beautiful pictures of what was seen going up and coming down! The question – does the preparation and climb including the physical effort help teach self-discipline, training and goal setting for all areas in life or is it just a lot of huffing, puffing and sweating? The answer, a fair amount of each.

BBRC members enjoyed a great visual show with some specular photographic shots from the top of Mt Rainier and during the climb and gave Steve warm applause when Pres Chris rose. Steve stayed after and had a lengthy chat with a number of fellow BBRC members

Sargent at Arms Tim Johnstone stood at the entrance and announced “Ladies and Gentlemen – The President of the BBRC”.  President Chris, as is his tradition, opened with a music selection, a part of “I’m A Man” by the Sonics. Megan Sweeters and Tom Smith were Greeters and Christine Rose and Past Pres Cary Kopczynski served as Hosts. “Return member” Megan Sweeters lead the invocation and flag salute, followed by Tom Smith who introduced visiting Rotarians,

guests and visitors. President Chris reminded the BBRC of TRF

participation through the EREY program and ask all BBRC members to please participate so we again have 100% participation for the 2nd year in a row.

Katherine DeStephano gave an update on the 2013 Bellevue 10K/5K Run and Kids Dash to be held April 28, 2013. This is BBRC’s primary fund raiser.More information on teams and tasks with follow each week up to the event. It raises the bulk of the money BBRC uses for the broad range of BBRC’s annual charitable service/work. Examples are the Adoption Party, Major Grants, Student of the Month, Sammamish High School College scholarships,Vocational Service collaborative project with At Work and Bellevue Club – to help people with disabilities get employed, Rotary First Harvest, Preserve Plant Earth, Thanksgiving Operation Turkey Drop, Interact, Rotaract, Holiday giving tree, DECA(Distributive Education Clubs of America – training high school leadership), Wash Business Week (Summer Camp to aid high school leadership and business training), Antigua Computers for the World Project (in-conjunction with Newport High School students), Dictionaries for 3rd Graders, New Member project, Rotary Youth Leadership Awards(RYLA) and Chess in school projects etc.

Please contact Jim Carney with your ideas for sponsorship opportunities and to help Jim & Katherine identify potential New Sponsors from outside BBRC!! Sponsorship $$$ are a significant part of what $$$ BBRC raises through the 10K. Please do your part and also put the April 28th date on your calendar.

Ruben Ladlad, Director of Community Service gave an overview of most of BBRC Community Service annual activities/projects (in excess of 15 see paragraph above) -some of which also have an International Service component.The big picture is BBRC is actively engaged in numerous activities/projects focused on families and youth and this is where BBRC spends the biggest part of its charitable funds. Ruben gave an overview description of each project/activity and what is planned for the rest of this year and next year. Rotary year 2012-13 has been and will continue to be a busy one for BBRC. Please make certain you are active in one of BBRC committees and at the same time enjoy the fellowship of your fellow BBRC members.

Remember that the 2013 BBRC Annual Planning Retreat will be held Saturday May 4th at the District 5030 Conference at the Coeur d’ Alene Resort. Please mark it on your calendar and plan to be there. We need 50+ BBRC members to be on stage to support our own DG Steve Lingenbrink and help pass the banner to the new incoming District Governor.Plus its a fun event with great fellowship and will expand your Rotary education.

Never be afraid to try something new. Remember, amateurs built the Ark; professionals built the Titanic. -Anonymous

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