President Phil Siegle called the meeting to order.
The invocation was provided by Jennifer Pence, sharing a John O’Donahue poem
“For One Who Is Exhausted, a Blessing”
by John O’Donohue
When the rhythm of the heart becomes hectic, Time takes on the strain until it breaks; Then all the unattended stress falls in On the mind like an endless, increasing weight.
The light in the mind becomes dim. Things you could take in your stride before Become laborsome events of will.
You have traveled too fast over false ground; Now your soul has come to take you back.
Take refuge in your senses, open up To all the small miracles you rushed through.
Imitate the habit of twilight,
Taking time to open the well of color
That fostered the brightness of day.
Draw alongside the silence of stone
Until its calmness can claim you.
Be excessively gentle with yourself.
Gradually, you will return to yourself,
Having learned a new respect for your heart
And the joy that dwells far within slow time.
Visiting Rotarians and Guests: Rotarian and Burlingame Schools Superintendent Marla Silversmith introduced BIS teacher Annie Miller. Rotarian and Burlingame High School Principal Jen Fong introduced BHS teacher Jessica Welch. Our guest speakers, Oliver Jolis and Ben Lambright, were also introduced.
Announcements:
The Rotary Club of Burlingame and Hillsborough is preparing for several upcoming events. Christine Krolik announced the Hillsborough Memorial Day Parade on May 26th, encouraging members to participate and sign up for a table at the event.
Doug Person announced a membership momentum meeting scheduled for 11 AM before next week's regular meeting, where new membership ideas will be discussed. Additionally, Jennier Pence informed us that there will be a kickoff meeting next week to organize the fall fundraiser at Topgolf, with a call for new people and ideas to make the event successful.
Mike Heffernan took the mic to perform one of his favorite duties, recognizing the Outstanding Teachers of the Year. The Rotary Club has been awarding scholarship money to students for a while. They then decided to recognize the teachers who have been instrumental in the students' success. The club honored Annie Miller, a social studies teacher and professional development coordinator at Burlingame High School, and Jessica Welch, a teacher of students with exceptional needs at Burlingame Intermediate School. Both teachers were recognized for their dedication and contributions to their students' growth and development. The club also acknowledged the support of the school district in their efforts.
Program:
Benjamin Lambright and Oliver Jolis discussed their transition from Peninsula Humane Society to becoming an independent nonprofit organization, Treasure Paws. They highlighted their goal to generate at least $70,000 for Peninsula Humane Society through their thrift store operations, offering pet supplies at a 15% lower cost than retail. The duo emphasized their commitment to supporting local animal rescues, providing resources and supplies to small, community-based organizations. They also shared their personal journeys, emphasizing the importance of community and the need for pragmatic solutions to societal problems.
The discussion focuses on the concept of thrift stores and their potential to address various societal issues. Burlingame and Oliver explain how their store, Treasure Paws, aims to reduce waste, promote sustainability, and support community welfare. They highlight their process of curating items, minimizing waste, and creating a cycle of reuse. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of quality, craftsmanship, and the value of storytelling in promoting a culture of permanence and respect for well-made items.
Benjami discussed the company's commitment to employee care, emphasizing their comprehensive healthcare, fair wages, and PTO policies. He highlighted the company's resilience during economic downturns, citing a 35% increase in sales during the Great Recession and a surge in sales during the pandemic. Burlingame also mentioned the company's plans to expand, with Oliver Jolis pitching the idea of setting up a store in Dubai. The company's focus on community-centered ethical business practices was also emphasized.
Regenerative Agriculture for Climate Adaptation & Economic Resilience
Dr. Anil K. Bhargava will discuss his recent work on regenerative agriculture, aimed at achieving the triple win of social, environmental, and economic benefits to low-income agriculture and food producers in developing countries, who are suffering disproportionately from recent climate change and shocks. As an economist, Dr. Bhargava has worked on all sides of this issue--from extended field work in rural communities and NGO and international organization consultancies to sustainable finance and corporate social responsibility positions and publishing in leading academic journals. His newest project in India brings together artificial intelligence and remote-sensing data with the economics and financing of farmer-led transitions from conventional to regenerative agriculture.
