The Program:
Rotarian Rachel Bellis introduced Dr. Michael J. Allen, Old Dominion University assistant professor of political science and geography. He focused on the impact of climate change is having now and will have in the future on Hampton Roads -- a phenomenon he maintains is not political since scientific rain gauges and thermometers do not lie. A U.S. Army Corps of Engineers study released last month shows it will take $1.8 billion investment to help protect Norfolk from rising seas and increasingly powerful coastal storms. That amount does not include measures needed in other Hampton Roads cities to alleviate flooding.
A proposed plan would ring Norfolk with a series of flood walls, storm surge barriers and tidal gates. Allen pointed out that sinking land beneath Norfolk exacerbates the effects of global sea level rise. By 2076, the Corps of Engineers study predicts Norfolk's sea level will rise 11 inches to 3.3 feet. Allen said the proposed measures are designed to shield thousands of properties from flooding by major storms and to protect critical infrastructure that serves the Navy base, However, preventing flooding at the Navy base itself is outside the scope of the project The Defense Department identified about 1.5 feet of sea level as a tipping point for the base that would dramatically increase flood damage risk.
The Meeting:
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Fred Walker reported that Bob Ash is making progress in a long recovery after his kayaking accident. Our bookkeeper Ann Morgan is recuperating from some health issues. Everyone was happy to have Rotarian Dean Rogis on the mend and at the meeting.
Alan Nelson facilitated guest introductions that included: ODU Rotaract officers Michelle Tapia and Eri Martinez attending with Steve Schultz, sponsor of the ODU chapter.
Mavis McKinley, a trust officer with AMG National Trust Bank, attending with Barbara Lifland. Rev. Brian Haroff of Royster Presbyterian Church attending with Chip Vogan, ; Patrick McKEnna of the Virginia Beach Justice Initiative attending with Ned Alderman,
Past President and Nominating Committee Chair Bryce Burton announced the 2018 slate of board officers and seven candidates for director.
Past District Governor Chuck Armason updated Rotarians on the good that their donations to the Rotary International Foundation do -- including half of the money coming back to the district in three years to be awarded as district grants.
Chip Vogan, director for membership, challenged Rotarians to keep bringing guests who are potential members. After the end of the month he will serve wine to the table that had the most guests visit during November.
Sharon Laderberg highlighted upcoming Rotary events, including a tour of the new Norfolk courts complex. Gary Boswick mentioned volunteer activities and the Bob Latimer Hotdog Day on December 1 -- a long tradition that involves free lunches at Bob's favorite hotdog restaurant.
The book “Among a Thousand Fireflies" will be donated to Ingleside Elementary, our school of the week, on behalf of our speaker
Congratulations and Fines:
Rotarians donated to our charities for a variety of reasons. Eleanor Schoonover is happy her DAR Chapter event raised $3,000. Sally Hartman celebrated her recent cross-country train excursion and Rotarian Will King being named our region's Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser as part of National Philanthropy Day. Chuck Spence is happy about the University of Virginia's football team win. Bryce Burton announced his daughter was accepted at Louisiana State University. Bill Burnette welcomed a new grandchild; Pam Tubbs let us now that, Sigur Whittaker was honored at the recent District 7600 Foundation banquet for her outstanding work on the District Grants Committee.