Wiggins Speaks About TPAC

The 2007-08 season for the Topeka Performing Arts Center has been scheduled.

"We have five shows lined up this year," said Barbara Wiggins, Executive Director of the Topeka Performing Arts Center. I am really excited about our third show of the year, which is something I have been working hard on, which is partnering with the Topeka Symphony Orchestra. Our first show after the new year will be a performance by the rock band Kansas with the Topeka Symphony Orchestra.

Another big event will take place on March 12, when Ted Neeley who played the original Jesus in the movie Jesus Christ Superstar will be performing in the touring show.

Programming at TPAC is one of Wiggins major rolls as Executive Director.

"I don't travel to many events," she says. "In my roll I have already seen most of the shows, but those I have not, I will watch them over the internet."

Wiggins is the point of contact for the arts center and works with the promoters and artist representatives to then develops contracts and promotional agreements. "When it comes to programming, the buck stops with me," she says. "So if you are interested in seeing a particular event, please feel free to give me a call."

Wiggins explained that she prefers to build in a 150-mile clause into the contracts which prohibits that same show from playing and drawing interest away from the show at TPAC.

"As far as I am concerned, anything that is showing in Kansas City is too close," she says. "People in this community will often go out of town for events."

Wiggins says that she will deviate from that philosophy only if the Topeka show is announced and promoted first.

Rotopeka Podcast

As announced in the September Rotopeka, there is a new format for the Rotopeka. Don't have time to read the Rotopeka, catch it on the Rotopeka Podcast. Click the image below to listen on your computer. We're still working on a better Podcast hosting site which will allow the program to be downloaded.

Member Count at 204

From the Editor

In many ways, technology is changing the way in which we live our lives. Whether it is a parent snapping a digital photo or a grandparent receiving that photo or it is using cellular phones to track an order your company has shipped, we all use technology in different ways.
Service organizations are not immune to technology and we should embrace the power that it provides. The Rotopeka is striving to use technology to help spread the message of Rotary and the service our club provides to our community.

In this issue, the Rotopeka is taking a new step into technology and I would encourage you to join this exciting new world. The Rotopeka is available on the club’s website as well as http://rotopeka.blogspot.com. This new site will include all the stories in the issue along with informative links which you can follow to learn more about Rotary around the world.

One of the more interesting ideas is from a Rotary program called Shelterbox (Story on page 6). This project , based on England, provides relief boxes to needy families around the world. Using Google Earth, this program will take you on a virtual tour around the world, not only demonstrating what it does to help, but where it helps in a way that is innovative and powerful. Not-for-profits are using the technologies in Google Earth in ways that are creating amazing awareness. If you have not used this program, I would highly encourage you to take a look at it.
Rotopeka has served as a monthly publication that is mailed to its members. Through this new technology, Rotopeka is branching out and incorporating the technologies that are just beginning to emerge. Besides the new “blog”, the Rotopeka is available in an exciting new format this month. But you have to visit the website to check it out.

Digital photography also was a focus of one of our club’s presenters this week. My wife and daughter just returned from Disney World and they took 345 photos. I took the advise of our presenter, Mike Worswick of Wolf’s Camera and immediately burned the photos onto a CD and put them in safe keeping. In the next few days, we will send our photos off to be printed and then pick them up an hour later.

There are many ways in which organizations such as Rotary are using the internet to advance their message, not only through traditional means like websites, but through blogs, video podcasts and Google Earth. The world is opening itself up and we are gaining more information all the time that can help us create a better world.
Hop aboard the and see what you can learn.

Message from the President

Good News - the Topeka Rotary Club has approved 4 new members since July.

We are well on our way to meeting our goal for this year. Thanks to those of you who sponsored them.

I hope everyone is looking around - at your co-workers, neighbors and friends for potential members. Feel free to contact them and ask if they might be interested in joining Rotary. Membership applications are at the back of the room. If the prospect is interested, invite them to a meeting as a guest of the club. Let me, or someone one the membership committee know and we will take it from there.

This month I want to write a little about attendance. Normally our club's attendance is about 50% of our membership. For many years Rotary International required that members attend 60% of the meetings, but recently that requirement has been relaxed to 50%. In our recent club bylaw revisions, that was changed to "encouraging members to attend 50 percent of the time".
I do remember when I first joined this club, it was impressed upon me that I must meet the attendance requirement. I was terrified that I would miss one too many meetings and then-President John Knoll would call me on the carpet. But he never did. And gradually I learned that there is more than one way to be an active Rotarian.

With today's busy work environment, many people find it difficult to attend every week. I personally do a lot of work-related traveling and most of the time, it is impossible to interrupt a business schedule and find a Rotary club meeting to attend. Make-up meetings at other clubs are fun if you have a more leisurly schedule but that's not the only way to keep your attendance at 50%. Attending board or committee meetings, doing volunteer service, working on a club project--all these ways count toward attendance, but often they are never reported.

At the Rotary Convention in Salt Lake I learned of an on-line. virtual club where you can sign in and post something. For some people, that is the only way they can participate in Rotary, although I'm not sure I'd find that satisfying if it were the only way to belong.
Belonging is what it is all about -- being active, involved and connected with other Rotarians. It is not about just counting the number of meetings you attend.

So, if you would like to get more involved, with a Rotary service project, or helping with the many club duties such as giving invocations, introducing speakers, etc., let us know of your interest. E-mail me and I will connect you with the correct person.

Joan Wagnon
joan101740@cox.net

RSS: A new way to get your Rotary news

Get Rotary International news delivered to your personalized Web news reader or club home page through the new RSS news feed at http://www.rotary.org/.

RSS, or Really Simple Syndication, is a basic form of Web page that sends news headlines and other Web content to subscribers. RSS users register to news feed sites like the ones listed below and have regularly updated news sent straight to them.

Some Rotary club and district Web sites use RSS news feeds from other sources to complement their existing content. These clubs are encouraged to subscribe to Rotary International’s official news feed, providing the latest links to official announcements, project stories, featured articles from The Rotarian and Rotary International Interactive, as well as other RI media.

Sign up for the Rotary International news RSS now. If you'd like to have your Rotary International news feed sent to one of these services, simply click on one of the following links, to get the latest news updates.

The Rotopeka is also available via RSS Feed by visiting http://rotopeka.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default. The Rotary International Feed is available on the Rotopeka website.

The World at their Fingertips

Watch any news program and inevitably, you will notice that anytime the producers show a location in the world, they will use a satellite image to zoom from space onto the specific location.

Usually, we as viewers just chalk that up to special effects, but the reality is this technology is available to us at home.

Companies like Google and Microsoft have made satellite imagery available to the home user and many have taken the challenge of finding their home or office or favorite vacation spots. But many have found the technology useful in advancing causes of the environment, world peace, and recreation.

The ability to use the internet to promote global awareness is nothing new. But the way in which it can now be done is fundamentally changing how organizations are able to spread their messages.

Ed Wilson, President and CEO of Earthwatch, recently commented, "Google Earth represents a whole new way for us to connect with the world... Not only can we inform people about key environmental issues facing the world today, but we can give them the opportunity to get directly involved".

Environmental organizations can use these maps to demonstrate the effects of deforestation or urban sprawl. Wildlife organizations can view migration patterns of various wildlife. Even human rights advocates demonstrate the atrocities in Darfur.

The window to the world is just opening. Already, the ability to add U.S. Census data is creating ways to better analyze our communities and view them in new ways. The opportunity to add video and photography to locations and share with the world are creating new ways to learn about vacation sites, historical locations and are expanding our understanding of the world.

For Rotarians, we can share the successes of community projects, show friends where you have traveled through Rotary International sponsored projects or create greater awareness for the world around us or even learn where Rotary clubs are located around the world.
To download Google Earth visit, http://earth.google.com/. Install and launch the software. You will need a broadband internet connection.

The Art of Packing for a Flight

Anyone who has tried packing for a business trip or a vacation lately has discovered that there is an art to meeting both the security requirements and airline restrictions for carryon luggage.

Most airlines only allow one carryon bag and one personal item. What you can carry in that bag seems to change from week to week, but there are some common things you can do to help ease the stress caused by long security lines.

One of the first things is a good piece of luggage. According to Walt Hillmer of Hillmer’s Luggage, Leather & Gifts of Topeka, a good bag will last far longer than an inexpensive bag.
“A good rule of thumb is that you will pay two to three times more for a professional bag and that will handle four to six times the wear, but you will get twice the value.”

It is possible to pack for a stay of a few days using only carryon luggage, but it requires planning.
Here are some things to remember:

1. Make sure that you check the current restrictions on liquids and gels. Currently federal regulations prohibit anything larger than 3 oz bottles packed in a single one ounce clear plastic bag. Small, travel sized items are available at your grocery store.
2. Make sure that remove your laptop and camera before going into security. These things are required to be run through the x-ray machine separate. Have these items packed in a way you can quickly pull them from your bag and reinserted quickly.
3. You think those kids are wearing flip flops in the middle of the winter as a fashion statement? Remember, your shoes must be removed and sent through the x-ray machine as well. If you can, avoid shoes that require you to untie or unstrap. Sandals and flip flops are an easy way to speed up time.
4. Hillmer recommends a small ID holder for your driver’s license and airline documents you can carry around your neck. These items often cause the most difficulty because they are so easy to just to lay down and under the stress, they are often left behind. It’s no surprise you hear people called back to the security gate to retrieve ID’s.
5. Remember, just relax. You have as long as you need to get through security. If you feel as if the traveler behind you is pushing you faster than you are comfortable, don’t worry. The odds are you will never see him again. Just enjoy your trip.

For more helpful information, visit the Transportation and Security Administration's Website at http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm

Preserving Memories

The digital camera is revolutionizing photography, making it possible to capture, send and store thousand of photos. But at the same time, the non-stop and ease of pointing clicking has caused the art of the photo to be diminished. That according to Mike Worswick of Wolfe’s Camera.

Despite the ease of today’s photography and the ability to store thousands of photos, Worswick suggested to the audience that it is still important to print out copies as a way of preserving history.

There are a number of ways in which photos can be backed up and yet still remain easily obtainable for viewing.

• Memory Card—These are the cards in which the photos are stored when they are taken. Photos can be printed directly from these cards at photo kiosks.
  
• Hard Drive—Storing the photos on your computer. Make sure that you also have a back up. Computer hard drives tend to only live as long as the computer itself.
  
• Compact Disc—Photos can be stored as individual files are computer software can be used to produce a slide show type presentation. Make sure you label the CD
  
• DVD—DVD’s are an even better storage device. First they hold more photos, but they tend to have a longer lifespan. Again, label the DVD. Photos can be made into movies using your computer software that will play on your home DVD player.
  
• Online Storage—There are many services now which allow digital images to be stored and available for viewing.
• Most importantly, remember to back up those photos and store a copy off site.

Rotaractors Seek Aid for Flood Victims in North Korea

Several Illinois Rotaract clubs are raising money to provide medical assistance for flood victims in North Korea. Working with Rotarians in Shanghai, China, as well as the Red Cross, and other groups, the Rotaractors hope to raise US$10,000 to send medical supplies to this non-Rotary country.

Current relief efforts have not kept up with the demand for antibiotics, food, medical supplies, and other essential humanitarian items. Heavy monsoon rain storms began sweeping the country on 5 August, and continued until 17 August. The rain submerged more than 11 percent of the nation’s rice and maize fields as well as part of Pyongyang, the nation’s capital. According an estimate by the United Nations, more than 200 people died and more than 300,000 have been displaced from their homes.

The Rotaractors hope to raise the money needed in the next month, calling the fundraiser “Operation Flood Relief Now.” The deadline to donate to this project is 15 October 2007.
To help, contact:Gary D. Permenter of the Rotaract Club of Chicago, Illinois, USA at: gary.permenter@gmail.com or 415-670-9160

Harry Briscoe Turns Ninety

Longtime Rotarian Harry Briscoe was recognized recently at a Topeka Rotary Club meeting on his ninetieth birthday.

Briscoe joined the Topeka Rotary Club in 1974.
From all of the members of the Topeka Rotary Club we wish you a very happy and memorable birthday.

Todd Payne Joins the Topeka Rotary Club

Todd was born and raised in Topeka. He is a product of the USD # 501 school system, attending Avondale West Elementary School, Jardine Middle School, and Topeka West High School.

Todd attended the University of Kansas, earning a B.S. in Mathematics in 1994 and a Masters in Accounting and Information Systems in 1998. After attaining his Masters degree, Todd worked for Arthur Andersen LLP as a Financial Statement Auditor in Denver, CO. Upon moving back to Topeka in 2003, Todd continued his public accounting career with Berberich Trahan P.A., and then in May 2005, became Controller/CFO for Brier Payne Meade Insurance, Inc. Todd is also a licensed Insurance Agent now and is actively selling property and casualty insurance.

Todd and his wife, Kelly, have three children: Ethan (5, boy), Perry (2, boy) and Addison (10 months, girl). Todd has been actively involved in sports since youth and still remains an avid golfer, basketball player and trail hiker. Welcome Todd!

Rotary Youth Exchange

The district is currently seeking committee members for the district Youth Exchange Committee. Please contact Stephen Wheatley at wheatleydc@sbcglobal.net. Members need to be interested in youth and other cultures. We have big jobs and little jobs that need to get done. Please contact Steve today if you have any questions or anyone in your club that would like to get involved.

It is also the time of year when clubs should start interviewing potential outbound students. Remember that children of Rotarians ARE eligible for this program. Students need to be between 15 ½ and 18 ½ at the time of travel.

This year we have students from Italy, Germany, Switzerland and Sweden.
Outbounds can choose from many countries around the world to exchange with.
Please contact Steve at the about email address if you have any questions.
He can also be reached at 913-367-2269

U.S. ShelterBox Response Team delivers landmark aid

On her first trip delivering disaster relief for ShelterBox, Trannie Lacquey encountered Maoist guerillas, crossed swollen rivers on foot, and hiked miles in a remote, tension-filled corner of Nepal.
But the toughest challenge, says the grandmother of five, was clearing customs at the airport for 410 ShelterBox relief kits, which would help hundreds of families trapped by the monsoon floods that swept Nepal in August. It took 10 days.

Read More (http://www.rotary.org/newsroom/programs/070906_shelterbox500.html)

Minutes from the August Board Meeting

Secretary’s Report: The minutes of the July 11 meeting were distributed. Following a review by the members, it was M/S (Welch/Lansford) that the minutes be approved as distributed. Motion carried.

Treasurer’s Report: Since Treasurer Gary Knoll was unable to attend, Joan distributed his proposed 2007-08 budget. It was moved and seconded (Wages/Parks) to approve the budget as presented with one change – International Rotary Conference expense to $1500. Motion carried.

July Attendance: 47.84%, 201 members as of July 31, 2007.

Resignations: It was M/S (Parks/DuBoise) that the resignations of Don Rankin & Debbie White be approved with regret. Motion carried.

New Members: It was M/S (Williams/Welch) to approve the membership of Todd Payne, Controller & Insurance Agent with Brier Payne. Motion carried.

Membership Recruitment & Retention: Dvorak reported that membership will be mentioned at the first meeting of each month, our goal this year is 215. Membership applications will be placed by the badge boxes each week.

Greensburg Donation: The general consensus was that each member could make that an individual decision.

Club Database: It was M/S (Williams/Wolgast) that our club database will not be used for any purpose other than Rotary business.

Board Vacancy: It was M/S (Williams/Moser) that President Joan contact prospective candidates for the opening on the board. Motion carried. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned and the next meeting will be on September 12, 2007 at the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library.

Third group graduates from Rotary peace program

The Rotary Foundation’s third group of students studying peace and conflict resolution at a university in Bangkok, Thailand, will graduate from their intensive, three-month program on 14 September. More. Read more about the Rotary Peace and Conflict Studies Program here.

Member access to Rotary International Website

The Rotary International business portal offers Rotarians secure access to RI services.

1. Go to Rotary International Website: www.rotary.org
2. Click on "Member Access"
3. Enter District Number: 5710
4. Enter Club Number: 1634
5. Enter Membership Number: Your membership ID can be found on the address label of THE ROTARIAN magazine. (Omit first digit if it is a "O".)
6. Enter your email address
7. Rotary International will send an email with your password in numbers
8.Enter the RI website and change the password to one you prefer.

Club Responds to Peru Earthquake

Rotarians are moving into action following a powerful earthquake that rocked Peru on 15 August, killing more than 500 and destroying some 35,000 homes (Read more). See where it happened on Google Earth. For more information, visit the Disaster Relief and Recovery page.