Speaker:Rabbi Mendel Mintz from the Aspen Jewish Community Center (AJCC) shared his personal journey that led him to be inspired to come to Aspen, from his Brooklyn upbringing to his ordination by the Chief Rabbi of the State of Israel. In 2003, he purchased the land, and after a 10-year journey, the Jewish Center became a reality.
The AJCC is a Chabad, a sect in traditional Judaism that is independent. Their only connection with other Jewish centers is their ideology. “We use the mind to connect to the heart,” said.
Rabbi Mintz wanted to use his stature as a rabbi, which means teacher, to create an open, inclusive place for children and adults to gather, learn, worship and connect with the broader community as an events hub for everyone. Over 150 people per day use the Center for all kinds of classes.
Some interesting answer to Rotarian’s questions:
A Solving problems starts at home – what we do in a moral, ethical way has an impact on others and helps others.
A. I never mention the persecution of the Jews because it’s not relevant to me or to today. What I can control is what we do and how we live. Persecution, guilt, suffering isn’t the way we should look at the world.
A My job is to build character and give my kids self-assurance and self-esteem. I never talk to them about anti-Semitism. “My children don’t have a contract with God for an easy life and never will.”
Guests: Chris Peterson, Visiting Rotarian from Mt. Sopris Rotary (and future District Governor), Chuck Omelson (Christina King), Ed Foran (Emily Burr), David Kudish (Maurice Emmer), Warren Klug (Kathy Klug)
President Craig said Disabled Vets week was a great opportunity to show we care.
Maurice Emmer said that the parents of our Rotary exchange student will be here April 15-17. He’s trying to find opportunities for Rotarians to meet with them.
Cathy Klug’s office hosted a lunch Wednesday at Doer Hosier with seven deans talking about whether the cost of college is worth it.
John Moore is receiving multiple thank you letters from the non-profit recipients of the Ducky Derby funds, including Mountain Rescue, Literacy Outreach, Summit 54 and Youth Zone.
From Teri and Tony Caine “…You are making a big difference in the lives of more than 600 young students.”
From YouthZone – “Thank you! We’re expanding our program working directly with schools and law enforcement, hoping to eliminate the juvenile justice system!”
Susan Gomez announced that Michael Connelly will be Deputy Duck! (See what happens when you miss a meeting?)
District 5470 Training Assembly & Rotary Round-up Conference – April 20-22 – Glenwood Springs!
Chris Peterson – Glenwood Springs Rotarian and AG encouraged all incoming officers and board members to attend the Training Assembly. He is hoping that our local Valley Rotary Clubs will show up in force on Friday and Saturday to hear the first female Rotarian, Dr. Sylvia Whitlock, speak for the opening keynote lunch on Friday, plus many more panel discussions, including stories from the first females in each club. They need sponsorships - $100 for a business card size ad up to $500 for the back cover of the program book. Deadline April 10. Email: chris@alpineace.biz.
President Craig announced that the Rotary Club of Aspen will pay the registration fees for ANY Rotarian who wants to attend! (i.e., FREE!) To take advantage, register by going to this link, then submit a receipt for reimbursement by our Club.
Happy Bucks: Craig was happy to meet a new neighbor (Clarence). Mike Hoffmann thanked John Keleher for averting disaster by discovering a burning napkin in the breakfast line and stamping out the fire. Former Rotarian Ed Foran was happy to be back as a guest. Christina King thanked the grant committee for the donation to the Aspen Strong Foundation. Heidi Hoffmann is excited for Ride for the Pass on May 20. Cathy Klug is counting the days until her daughter gets home from Afghanistan. Todd Brewer is happy to have breakfast with two neighbors. Also, last weekend was the last chance for Aspen Sports donations to the ACES Kids Science fund from your purchases. Jeanette Darnauer announced the CD Release Concert Sunday night of local singer songwriter Ellen Stapenhorstl. Sean Hathaway donated the $100 he received from a student hockey player as a thank you for the season!
2017 Ducky Derby Sponsorship Committee met last Friday for a discussion and update on sponsors to date. They also set the next three sponsorship meetings, held at Mountain Chalet downstairs in the room next to the dining area:
Friday, April 14 at 4:30 p.m.
Friday, April 28 at 7:30 a.m.
Friday May 12 at 4:30 p.m.
The Weekly Newsletter of the Rotary Club of Aspen.
