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Welcome to The Rotary Club of Akron, Ohio

Due to Covid-19
our Club is currently hosting
online meetings using ZOOM.

Please see the list of meetings below you may wish to join.

For Zoom information see below or

email us (click here) with your request to attend.

You have the option to join via your computer or just by phone if you prefer.

Meet Our 2020-2021
Club President
Robert S. McGregor, MD

View our other Club Leaders

View Calendar of
Weekly Speakers
& Our Events

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Join our Club Meeting at NOON via ZOOM
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/989441809

June 15, 2021

STEVE MILLARD, CCE
President and CEO
Greater Akron Chamber

Steve Millard is President & CEO of the Greater Akron Chamber and in that role is responsible for leading the Greater Akron Area’s Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce serving Medina, Portage and Summit Counties. Steve’s work is focused on leading the chamber’s efforts to drive jobs and investment in the Greater Akron region, improve the region’s competitiveness and to advocate for the needs of the business community in the region with its elected and appointed officials.

Prior to joining the Greater Akron Chamber, Steve served as Executive Vice President of the Greater Cleveland Partnership; President and Executive Director of COSE (the Council of Smaller Enterprises); as a supply chain management consultant with Accenture (at that time Andersen Consulting) and as a supply chain specialist with GE Healthcare (at that time GE Medical Systems).

Steve is a certified chamber executive, serves on the Boards of Leadership Akron, the Summit Education Initiative (data based school performance collaborative), ConxusNEO (regional workforce intermediary) and Medical Services Company. He is a frequent adviser to businesses and a regular facilitator for strategic planning and leadership team retreats.

Steve has a BS in Transportation and Distribution Management and a BS in Finance from Syracuse University and his MBA from Case Western Reserve University.

June 22, 2021

JACQUELINE FLAHERTY-RICCHIUTI, CEO
Keep Akron Beautiful

Jacqui Flaherty-Ricchiuti was named the Executive Director & CEO of Keep Akron Beautiful (KAB) in December 2014. Keep Akron Beautiful is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to improve Akron’s quality of life through beautification and responsible environmental management. A city and private sector funded agency, Jacqui is responsible for raising over $800,000 annually to operate the agency by extensive grant writing. Keep America Beautiful, Inc. awarded the agency second place recognition in 2014 for comprehensive program excellence of affiliates serving similar populations and Akron has been a President’s Circle Award annually since 2003.

Mrs. Ricchiuti is a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Jacqui is a trained Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) - Guardian Ad Litem with the Summit County Juvenile Court System, advocating for children in the custody of the Summit County Children’s Service. Since 2012, Jacqui has advocated for eight families, ensuring at the end of the case the children were in safe homes.

Jacqui serves the community in other ways, such as dedicating herself as the Recycling Coordinator for the Akron Marathon since 2013; as the Marketing Coordinator and ten year volunteer for the Summit County Italian Council, which puts on the Akron Italian-American Festival at Lock 3 Park; and serves as a volunteer for multiple events at the Carovillese Club in North Hill, a nonprofit club celebrating her families Italian heritage.

Jacqui is a dedicated Junior League of Akron Sustaining Member. After joining in 2011, Mrs. Ricchiuti has served the League in a variety of capacities. In 2012 she joined the Membership Council and in 2013 & 2014 she helped organize member events, as part of the Membership Council. In 2014, Jacqui served as a co-chair for the Early Bird Bustle 5K Run/Walk at Old Trail School, which raised over $3,000 to do educational programs with the Boys and Girls Club on childhood health and wellness through the Junior Leagues’ Kids in the Kitchen program. Jacqui served the League as the Vice President of Communications in 2015 and served as one of the 2016 ShowHouse Co-Chairs. Jacqui planned the League’s signature fundraiser and event, ShowHouse, with two other event chairs, raising $30,000 for the ShowHouse and $60,000 for a capital campaign that she helped to organize. Jacqui was the Vice President of Nominating & Placement for the 2016-2017 League year and became a Sustainer in 2020.

Jacqui is an alumni member of Leadership Akron Class 34- she graduated in June 2018 and was part of the Women’s Network Community Leadership Institute through Leadership Akron in 2016. She also is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

Jacqui began her career as an event planner for a local running event and knew her true passion was to get into non-profit work. She heard of an opportunity to fill a Program Manager position with Keep Akron Beautiful, from a trusted friend and advisor, who is now a board member of Keep Akron Beautiful. Mrs. Ricchiuti was promoted to CEO in December of 2014.

Jacqui is a graduate of Wadsworth High School. She received her B.A. degree in Business & Organizational Communication and Public Relations from The University of Akron in 2011. As the Philanthropy Chairman for Alpha Gamma Delta Sorority, she worked hard to raise money for Juvenile Diabetes through the Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation, by hosting and planning events such as Alpha Gam Lip Jam (a lip synching competition) and held an Alpha Gam Man Competition to raise funds. Jacqui attended skill-building conferences sponsored by The Association of Fraternal Leadership and Values, The Association of Junior Leagues; The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency- Division of Natural Resources, Keep America Beautiful and The Association of Fundraising Professionals.

Jacqui and her husband, Bruno, were born and raised in the Akron area, Jacqui in Wadsworth and Bruno in Green. Currently, Jacqui and Bruno reside in West Akron. Jacqui’s parents still reside in Wadsworth. Jacqui is one of four children, two of her siblings live locally, and her brother lives in Las Vegas, NV. Jacqui welcomed her first child, daughter Giuliana, in June 2018 and her second daughter, Mia, in December 2020.

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Charles Billington, Vorys Cleveland, RC of Akron Risk Management Presentation

Posted by Terrence Dalton

The Rotary Club of Akron had the pleasure of listening to one of our own at our Tuesday, June 8, 2021, club meeting. The purpose of this week’s presentation was to inform Club members of the purpose of our Risk Management Committee and how every Akron Rotarian can be part of our risk management efforts when participating in Club sponsored activities/events. VIEW THE MEETING VIDEO - CLICK HERE

And who would be better than Chaz to be the Chairperson of our committee. Chaz is a partner in the Vorys Cleveland office and a member of the labor and employment group. He has significant experience advising in-house legal counsel and HR leaders on a wide range of labor and employment matters, including: the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA); the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA); the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC); collective bargaining, labor relations issues and the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB); drafting and implementing employee handbooks; providing management and employee trainings; and assisting with HR related issues associated with both mergers and acquisitions. For the past fifteen months COVID-19 has consumed a large percentage of his workload!

Chaz received his J.D. summa cum laude from Cleveland State University Cleveland-Marshall College of Law and served as a senior editor for the Cleveland State Law Review. He also served as a research editor for the Cleveland State Journal of Law and Health. He received his B.S. and A.A.S cum laude from the University of Akron.

Who are the Risk Committee Members?

The committee is comprised of Chaz Billington, Dr. Robert McGregor, Pat O’Neill, Terry Dalton, Sam Lupica, Jacinto Nunez, John Reyes, and Michael Gladysz.

Why Does the Committee Exist?

To provide oversight across the Club for all categories of risk to ensure that proper practices are in place to identify, understand, and manage risks.

What are the Committee’s Responsibilities?

A few of the committee’s responsibilities include:

Create a culture of risk management throughout the Club
Conduct risk assessments and develop risk management plan for Club operations and activities
Identify and continuously audit the Club’s insurance plans, policies and needs
Assess and prioritize risks associated with Club operations and activities
Communicate risk management-related advice and recommendations to the Board
Determine how to manage identified risks and develop risk response plans
Communicate with Club leadership, membership, and volunteers regarding safety, risk management, and risk response plans

What Does the Committee Do and Not Do?

The Committee makes recommendations to the Board of Directors

The Committee does not approve or disapprove any particular event or proposed action of the Club.

What Has the Committee Done This Year?

Consulted, advised, and helped plan risk mitigation efforts with the Chili Open
Analyzed Club insurance coverage to identify any gaps
Monitored local, state, and federal COVID related guidance
Discussed several proposed events
Created forms like releases and waivers for in-person events

When Do Fellow Rotarians Need to Reach Out to the Committee?

When Club members are planning a Rotary-sponsored event or member-attended events.

If We Are Planning an Event, What Does the Committee Need from Akron Rotarians?

Description of the event
Anticipated date(s)
Any proposed/existing safety/health protocols
Contact person
Turnaround time

When Does the Committee Meet and How Do We Contact the Committee?

The Risk Management Committee meets the 4^th Tuesday of the month at 11:00 a.m. prior to the Club meeting. You can contact Chaz at cfbillington@gmail.com or 330.322.3603 or Terry at tdalton1226@gmail.com or 330.815.1525

The Risk Committee encourages all Rotarians to reach out to the committee if you have any concerns about anything you might be concerned about from a risk perspective for the Club or individual members.

Yours in Service -

Terry Dalton
RC of Akron Secretary
Scholarship Chair
Risk Committee Member

Service Project June 12th: Volunteers Needed Please

Posted by harig

The Akron Rotary Foundation, a 501 C3 is partnering with The Well Community Corp, also a 501C3 to provide landscaping enhancements to 5 homes located in the Middlebury area of Akron. This project is designed to rehabilitate the housing in a depressed area of the community that dates back to the founding of Akron.

The Rotary Club of Akron's commitment is to provide materials and volunteers to enhance the appearance of the home by trimming and cleaning up existing landscaping as well as planting of annual and perennial flowers, and mulching of flowerbeds to brighten the curb appeal and encourage other property owners to do likewise.

We are in need of three-four people for each of the five houses so 20 volunteers to trim shrubs, plant flowers and rake out beds.

When: 9am - Noon on Saturday, June 12th

What we ask that please you bring: Shovels, gardening tools, rakes, trimmers, work gloves and smiles!

How to volunteer: Contact Steve Buie at 330-701-2970 or via email at sbuie@learningrx.net

Location of project: 51-89 Eber Avenue. Steve will have a map link to send to those who volunteer.

Board Retreat

The current board and incoming board members held a retreat in June. This was designed to help these leaders transition, learn about their various communication styles, and plan for the 2021-2022 Rotary Year.

Anne Graffice, EVP, Hall of Fame Resort & Entertainment

Posted by Terrence Dalton

The Rotary Club of Akron had the pleasure of listening to a presentation on the Hall of Fame Resort and Entertainment Company, the driving force behind the development of the Football Hall of Fame project at our Tuesday, June 1^st weekly meeting. Our speaker was Anne Graffice, Executive Vice-President of Public Affairs. Anne joined Hall of Fame Resort & Entertainment Company (NASDAQ: HOFV, HOFVW) in December 2019. In this role, Ms. Graffice oversees community, investor, media and government relations, and manages all corporate social responsibility initiatives for the Company.

View the presentation - Click Here

In July 2020, Ms. Graffice was a key component of the transaction that made Hall of Fame Resort & Entertainment Company public through a merger with a Special Purpose Acquisition Company.

Previously, Ms. Graffice successfully served in a similar role at the Pro Football Hall of Fame, which she joined in May 2016 as Vice President of Development & Strategic Adventures. She served as the Hall’s primary corporate and community relations contact, and oversaw diversity programs and policies; controlled development and engagement for the Hall of Fame Village powered by Johnson Controls; and developed programming for the Center for Excellence.

What is the Hall of Fame Resort and Entertainment Company?

The Hall of Fame Resort and Entertainment Company is a multi-dimensional Sports and Entertainment Company. They are comprised of three divisions. The first is their Themed, Experiential Assets which includes themed attractions, hospitality, and live entertainment. The second area is their Media company which is comprised of original content, High Profile Partnerships and Sponsorships. The third company, which has grown more quickly than anticipated because of COVID-19 is their Gaming company which is comprised of Fantasy Sports, e-Gaming and Sports Betting.

The concept behind these growth areas is to make the Hall of Fame Resort and Entertainment Company a Destination Asset for Greater Northeast Ohio and beyond.

The Hall of Fame Resort and Entertainment Company has divided up the development of the Destination asset into three phases:

Phase I which is completed and created about $250 million in assets is comprised of

Pro Football Hall of Fame
Tom Benson HOF Stadium
National Youth Football and Sports Complex

Phase II (Double Tree by Hilton hotel opened in downtown Canton in Nov, 2020) (A $30 million dollar renovation)

Approximately 120 acres developed to create the following:

Hall of Fame Indoor Waterpark
The Eleven, a Hilton Tapestry Hotel
Constellation Center for Excellence (75,00 sq. ft multi-use office building, center and hub for research and development for sports. Will also have a huge scoreboard in the front of the building.
Center for Performance – an indoor fieldhouse, home for the NFL Alumni Association and their academy. It could be used for auto shows, indoor garden shows, indoor football games, indoor training facilities, etc.
Retail Promenade – There will be two of these with 10-12 different storefront businesses.
Play-action Plaza – an outdoor interactive green space.

Phase III (Up to $300 million in new assets across 600 acres of available land)

Includes potential for additional attractions, dining, lodging and accommodations housing options, etc.

What is the Hall of Fame Resort and Entertainment Center Approach for Success?

An opportunity to invest in the most powerful sport in America
Leveraging powerful brands across an integrated platform
Delivering unique experiences for loyal consumers
Maximizing media content and sponsorships
Significant long-term growth potential for their shareholders
Exceptional leadership with proven track record

What has been happening and can happen at the Hall of Fame Resort and Entertainment Center pre COVID and post COVID?

More than 70 events were held in 2019. This included stadium, youth sports and private events.

The Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium can hold live events, concerts and performances, weddings, corporate retreats, and indoor/outdoor parties.

The National Youth Football and Sports Complex and hold youth sporting events and tournaments, sports academies and athletic clinics.

The Center for Performance can house indoor sporting events, NFL Alumni Academy sports/events and convention space for events.

The Constellation Center for Excellence can provide meeting space and speaking engagements.

The Premium Hotels (Double Tree and the Eleven Hilton Tapestry hotels) can provide meeting space for meetings, conventions and banquets, weddings, corporate retreats, and indoor/outdoor parties.

The indoor waterpark can be rented for events and private parties

The Play- Action Plaza provides green space for recreation, events, and informal gatherings.

To learn more about the Hall of Fame Resort and Entertainment Center growth plans, etc. I encourage readers to view the recording: click here or copy and paste this link https://youtu.be/VAc4_DdzK0w.

Having heard Ms. Graffice’s presentation, I am sure you will be eager to follow the development of this destination spot and frequent the events that will be occurring now and in the future. An asset that Northeast Ohio should be very proud of.

"End Polio Now" Night at the Indians 2021

WE ARE BACK!!!!

“End Polio Now ” Night at the Indians 2021

Once again the annual Rotary Night at the Indians can be held without restrictions. While we missed last 2020, we are glad to be back now and raising money for End Polio Now.

On July 22, 2021, the Cleveland Baseball team will play the Tampa Bay Rays. And Rotary will be there too—in the Terrace Club, walk on the field with “End Polio Now “ T shirts, having the First pitch raffle and other exclusive raffle auctions. Now we just need YOU!!!

Please see the attached flyer and get your reservations in as soon as possible.

We need you at the “End Polio Now “ Indians game.

Stew Buchanan

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FORM

Howard Parr Talked About Civic Theatre Restoration at Club Meeting

Posted by Terrence Dalton

The Rotary Club of Akron had the pleasure of listening to Howard Parr, Executive Director of the Akron Civic Theatre at our Tuesday, May 18, 2021 weekly Club meeting. Mr. Parr provided some history of the Civic Theatre as well as a preview of the fantastic results from the most recent restoration and expansion of the existing location.

View the recording of our meeting by clicking here.

Howard Parr has more than 25 years of professional experience in arts, entertainment, and consulting. His work includes organizational development and strategic planning, as well as program management and event production.

Howard has served as executive director of the Akron Civic Theatre since September 2007. He served as The Civic’s Director of Development and Planning from 1999 – 2004, during which he directed the capital campaign for the theater’s $22.5 million expansion and restoration project. In addition to his work on the capital campaign, he was talent buyer for in-house programming (through 2002 – 2003), as well as for the first season of Lock Three Park, an outdoor performance space immediately adjacent to the Civic Theatre.

History of the Akron Civic Theatre:

Long recognized among the community’s cultural landmarks, the Akron Civic Theatre has a rich and spectacular history. It has provided the community with a venue for quality entertainment and live performances for over seventy years.

The theater was built in 1929 by Marcus Loew and designed by famed theater architect, John Eberson. The interior structure was fashioned after a Moorish castle featuring Mediterranean decor, including medieval carvings, authentic European antiques and Italian alabaster sculptures.

Among facilities of its size, the Civic is one of only five remaining atmospheric theaters in the country where patrons experience a twinkling star-lit sky and intermittent clouds moving across the horizon, all while sitting inside the auditorium.

Restoration and Expansion:

The current $8.5 million capital campaign builds on the rich history of the Civic Theatre. The transformation is creating a better entertainment experience and more ways for all of us to enjoy the “Jewel on Main Street.” Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the economic impact of the Civic Theatre was an annual $8.1 million dollars with an annual attendance of 135,000 individuals. In addition to the events held at the Civic Theatre, the Civic administration also provides the box office services for EJ Thomas Hall and participates with the Akron Civic Commons which is an initiative that looks at the city’s public spaces. In addition, the Civic Theatre also provides booking and technical support for Lock 3 events.

The current capital campaign which in the home stretch, is restoring the Grand Lobby and the Arcade. In addition, there will be a 200+ seat performance space. This new space will be in the adjacent Whitelaw building with residential housing in the upper floors. This new performance space will allow the Civic to host 100 smaller events and will allow more full-theater events in the main stage. The Civic will also construct an outdoor deck which will allow individuals additional ways to interact with the Civic and surrounding downtown venues. The Civic will be installing a huge outdoor digital screen. This digital screen will allow the Civic to broadcast select shows, giving you outside access to their programming. They will also hare events via live Facebook broadcasts, podcasts and more.

While visiting downtown, experience an exciting collection of public art around the Civic. You will find murals on the sweeping exterior walls of the Civic along South Main Street and West Bowery Street.

The Civic will be holding a grand re-opening the week of August 14 with a gala event on August 14^th.

To view some of the before and after pictures of the Civic Theatre restoration, I encourage you to view the recording of Mr. Parr’s presentation.

To search for upcoming events at the Civic, please visit their website at www.akroncivic.com.

Thank You Rotarians!

Posted by Amanda Warner

Thank you to everyone that came out for our Spring Clean-up days at Rotary Camp! Camp looks great and we appreciate all your hard work and energy to help us get ready for summer! Our first group of staff will be moving in next week into freshly clean cabins.

Thank you again, and we hope to see you back sometime this summer!

Amanda Warner
Akron Rotary Camp

Thank you to our Paul Harris Fellows

We proudly recognize and thank the following individuals whose outstanding generosity to the The Rotary International Foundation (TRF) demonstrates a spirit of giving which helps sustain and improve the lives of others.

Each of these members reached a new milestone in their donor legacy as multiple Paul Harris Fellows (PHF). You will find more information below about the recognition levels and how you can become a PHF.

Left to Right:

Nathanael Billow - Paul Harris + 2

Dr. Robert McGregor - Paul Harris +3

Dr. Douglas Hausknecht - Paul Harris + 4

John Margida - Paul Harris + 5

Paul Harris Fellow/Multiple Paul Harris Fellow

Donors of US$1,000 or more to the Annual Programs Fund, PolioPlus, or the Humanitarian Grants program, or people who have that amount contributed in their name, can be recognized as Paul Harris Fellows. Each new Paul Harris Fellow receives a commemorative certificate and a pin. At each new level a new stone is added to their pin to reflect their Paul Harris level. Click here for more about Donor Recognition.

Recognition total	Pin level
US$2,000 to 2,999.99	one sapphire
3,000 to 3,999.99	two sapphires
4,000 to 4,999.99	three sapphires
5,000 to 5,999.99	four sapphires
6,000 to 6,999.99	five sapphires
7,000 to 7,999.99	one ruby
8,000 to 8,999.99	two rubies
9,000 to 9,999.99*	three rubies

*Major Donor levels begin at $10,000

Become a Paul Harris Fellow

Click here and learn more about the PHF program and how you can participate.

The Rotary Foundation transforms your gifts into service projects that change lives both close to home and around the world.
Since it was founded more than 100 years ago, the Foundation has spent more than $4 billion on life-changing, sustainable projects.

TRF distributes a portion of donations made to the Annual Fund to our District to support local Club grants. Only donations that are designated to the Annual Fund qualify to be redistributed to the District / Clubs.

We are proud that 92% of funds are spent on actual program awards and services it delivers. TRF provides 100% accountability & transparency and has received Charity Navigator's highest level as a 4 star charity.

Our mission
The mission of The Rotary Foundation of Rotary International is to enable Rotarians to advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education, and the alleviation of poverty.

What impact can one donation have?

For as little as 60 cents, a child can be protected from polio.
$50 can provide clean water to help fight waterborne illness.
$500 can launch an antibullying campaign and create a safe environment for children.

Donate Now

We know that the RI Foundation is helping Rotarians do good in the world, here are some figures to help put it in perspective:

Five years of global grants by area of focus and total funding

Basic education and literacy $53,261,360

Community economic development $54,118,305

Disease prevention and treatment $151,761,859

Maternal and child health $35,233,163

Peacebuilding and conflict prevention $18,659,168

Water, sanitation, and hygiene $100,657,464
and (effective officially on July 1, 2021) RI added The Environment as our newest Area of Focus and is already taking donations toward that cause.

Tiffanie Ferguson of CHC Addiction Services Presentation Recap

Posted by Terrence Dalton

The Rotary Club of Akron had the pleasure of listening to Tiffanie Ferguson who serves as the Clinical Director at CHC Addiction Services at our Tuesday, May 11^th weekly meeting.

View the video of our meeting by clicking here

CHC Addiction Services is a private, not-for-profit, 501(c)(3) corporation. They are an addiction services agency providing comprehensive prevention, treatment and recovery services for addictive and compulsive behaviors and disorders.

Tiffanie has been an employee of CHC Addiction Services for the past 17 years. She is dually licensed as a clinical counselor and chemical dependency counselor supervisor. Previous to her role as Clinical Director she was instrumental in the development of CHC’s adolescent substance abuse treatment and detox programs at the height of the opiate epidemic. Tiffanie speaks and trains regularly to clinicians and the public at large about the best practices in addiction treatment, trauma-informed care, co-occurring disorders and much more.

CHC Addiction Services’ mission is to treat, inspire, support, and empower individuals and families impacted by the disease of addiction. CHC Addiction Services has made it their lives’ work to help those on the road to recovery, regardless of social or economic factors. They believe that substance use disorders are progressive, fatal illnesses that may require several treatment strategies for successful recovery. CHC provides individual, family and group counseling, medically-assisted treatment (MAT), residential treatment and much more.

CHC Addiction Services believes that total well-being is a key factor to successful recovery. Therefore, they provide quality medical treatment, housing, case management and child- care services in addition to their counseling and therapy services.

Not unlike many other agencies providing substance abuse and/or mental health services, CHC Addiction Services has seen an increase in substance abuse problems during the pandemic. In addition, there has been an increase in the use of Fentanyl or other drugs with Fentanyl mixed in with them. Some of this increase has been attributed to social isolation and a decrease in social support/recovery groups. CHC has used teletherapy during much of the pandemic and now provide a combination of virtual services as well as face-to-face services following CDC guidelines.

CHC provides a variety of treatment programs. Some of these include:

Adult Counseling Program: The Adult Counseling Program at CHC Addiction Services is designed to provide education, treatment and support for individuals with addiction ranging in severity from mild to severe. Since co-occurring disorders are common among those with substance use problems, CHC Addiction Services employs Master’s level clinicians who are well-equipped to teach patients effective recovery skills to improve the quality of their lives.
Adolescent Treatment: CHC Addiction Services offers many options for adolescent treatment. This program centers around long-term abstinence. Programs include Community-based treatment, Outpatient Counseling, and Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT).
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): CHC Addiction Service’s Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is designed to promote the recovery process through group and individual counseling, case management, vocational development, community support groups and re-integration programming. The Five Week program is a total of 15 group sessions. Patients who complete the IOP program are recommended to continue with aftercare programming as well as ongoing individual counseling sessions.
Medication-Assisted Treatment: CHC has a wide range of treatment options, including programming for all three FDA-approved medication assisted treatment medications. CHC’s first Opioid Treatment Program (OTP) began in 1974. Patients in medication assisted treatment (MAT) receive both medication and counseling services as a part of their treatment. MAT is a highly effective, evidence-based practice in which medication stabilizes brain function and allows the patient to return to optimal functioning.
- Methadone is the most widely used and studied treatment for opiate addiction. It has been identified as the most effective treatment. It is a long-lasting, synthetic narcotic that acts in a way similar to morphine or other narcotics. When used in proper doses, methadone does not create euphoria, sedation or analgesic effects. It is used as a maintenance treatment to stop cravings.
Women’s Recovery Program: CHC Addiction Services has been providing specialized women’s programming since 1990. The program focuses on gender-specific, trauma-informed care and seeks to eliminate barriers to recovery that often affect women, including lack of transportation and child-care. The program also highlights the stigma of substance use in an effort to treat both substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders.
Residential Programs: Residential treatment is the highest level of care for substance use disorders. The need for residential treatment is determined after looking at an assessment of needs. Staff works with potential patients to complete the intake process and insurance companies to complete the necessary steps for entering treatment.

CHC Addiction Services accepts a variety of insurance programs.For individuals with no insurance, services are available through funding provided by the Summit County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services (ADM) Board.

For additional information on the programs listed above, I encourage readers to visit CHC Addiction Services at chcaddiction.org.

Club Inducts Donna Skoda as our Newest Rotarian

Welcome to The Akron Rotary Club
DONNA SKODA, MS., RD., LD

Donna Skoda was sponsored by Cheryl Warren and has presented to our Club as well as many others throughout the area.

She is married to Dennis Skoda, CPA, CGMA who is a Financial Executive. Donna's mother Phyllis, who is 93, also resides with them in the Akron area.

She has spent the past 25 years rescuing Pug dogs and currently has five, Peyton, Beijing, Lucy, Fefei and Barron. She enjoys gardening and cooking her favorite is Italian dishes.

Donna serves as the Health Commissioner for the Summit County Public Health. She has worked in community based public health programs for over 25years. Her current responsibilities include overall management of the health district including the assessment and epidemiological components within the Health District, data and information systems and general strategic planning for the health district in the community. She has served as staff for the Summit 2020: A Quality of Life Project from the beginning and continues to assist with the local management.

Previously, she was employed in Cuyahoga County for 15 years implementing community-based programs in the areas of nutrition and many other areas in public health, the community and within hospital systems. She is a registered, licensed dietitian with a Master’s degree in Public Health and Nutrition from Case Western Reserve University.

Watch the recording of our weekly meeting - click here.

Student Scholarship Program - Part III

Posted by Terrence Dalton

On April 27, 2021, our Club honored students in the career fields of Business and Hospitality/Tourism.

Each student receives a $1,000 scholarship from the Akron Rotary Foundation.

Terry Dalton serves as a member of the Akron Rotary Club Board of Directors and as the Club Secretary and has chaired the Rotary Scholarship Committee for about 10 years. Any members interested in helping are encouraged to reach out to Terry at 330-815-1525 or via email to tdalton1226@gmail.com.

Thanks to Akron Rotarian, Kevin Smith, who participated in the interview and selection process. View the weekly meeting by clicking here.

About the Scholarship Recipients:

The Students of the Year recognized April 27th were (photos L-R)
Dei Juane' Burt, Jade Urdiales and Miranda Honaker.

We were pleased that two of the students were available to join our meeting [click to view recording].

These students are extremely accomplished students and active community volunteers.

Click here to view bios of all the April 27th recipients.

Dr. Rob McGregor Speaks at Stow Rotary Club

Akron Children's Hospital, Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Rob McGregor, and Tony Gutowski, Director of Government Relations spoke at the Stow Rotary Club on April 28, 2021. Their topic was COVID Silver linings: Pediatric Healthcare and Advocacy Opportunities. Dr. McGregor has provided many insights throughout this pandemic and guests at this presentation learned how Akron Children's pivoted during the pandemic and the exciting steps they are taking to further meet the needs of all of our communities.

North High School Interact Service Project

Our North HS Interactors out serving their community!!

Akron Public Schools Virtual Library: Calling all Storytellers

Posted by Julie Brandle

Thank you Akron Rotarian Lorrayne Gervase (photo

right)
for volunteering to read a story for the APS Virtual Storytelling initiative.

If you are interested,
contact Julie Brandle at jbrandle@metisconstruction.com
for more information and guidelines.

Julie Brandle, DGND, Assistant Governor - S Summit and Medina Cluster
Past President, Rotary Club of Akron, Ohio
Cell 330.858.6672 | jbrandle@metisconstruction.com

Akron Rotary Foundation

Posted by Doug Kohl on Dec 15, 2020

Those of us who serve on the Rotary Club of Akron Foundation board wish you the best as 2020 comes to a close. Many members of Rotary have asked what the Akron Rotary Foundation does as opposed to Rotary International Foundation. Some even didn't know a local foundation existed. Below is a communication to help concisely answer what your Foundation focuses on and supports. Please read on (click on image to enlarge)...

If you have the ability, we hope you will include the Akron Rotary Foundation in your year end giving. You can click here to donate now or simply send a gift by US Mail to the Rotary Camp. Thank you for your consideration and let's have a great year in 2021!

https://www.akronrotary.org/sitepage/akron-rotary-foundation

Akron Rotary Foundation & Rotary Members Helps Refugio de Ancianos San Cristobal in Medellin

Claudine Schooley shared the following thank you sent to the Foundation and Club Members. The report of how the funds were used along with photos are also included below their thank you.

Rotary Club of Akron

District 6630 Ohio

Mrs. Claudine Schooley

Dear Rotarians,

As legal representative of the Refugio de Ancianos San Cristobal in Medellin I wanted to express my deepest appreciation for your kind donation to our institution.

Your donation is very important and will help us maintain a dignified and brighter life for our 60 seniors, all of them coming from a previous life of neglect and abuse.

Please remit our appreciation for your generosity to the members of your club.

Warm regards

DORA LUZ MEJIA PIEDRAHITA

Director

AYUDAR A UN ANCIANO ES PREPARAR NUESTRO INCIERTO FUTURO

Teléfono 216 16 58 - 216 16 40

Nit 890 984 879-8

Personería Jurídica 12191

Report on the $500 donation from Akron Rotary Foundation

When Claudine Schooley first reached out to me about a donation to buy food for families on the dam where the Alberto Chedrani School is located, they were suffering from the pandemic. Many people lost their jobs, others could not even leave the area due to government restrictions.

Then, in November, two tropical storms impacted Honduras within 10 days. The general area of the dam was among the hardest hit, and thousands of families lost everything in the floods.

2020 was a truly tragic year, and this year will be complicated, too. This is why I am so happy and grateful for your donation of $500 for food for poor families on the dam. It brings a ray of hope in a time of great suffering. Thank you so much for allowing us to serve.

With the funds, equivalent to 12,192 Lempiras, we purchased 300 lbs of rice, 200 lbs of beans, 50 lbs of coffee, 82 lbs of sugar, 144 lbs of wheat flour, 75 lbs of spaghetti, 50 lbs of fat, 50 tomato sauces and 270 lbs of corn flour. This is the basic Honduran diet. The kids at El Refugio packed 50 bags for equal number of families. We think that each bag feeds a family of six for up to a week.

We distributed the bags all along the dam, all the way from the beginning to the school. We handed one bag to each mother or grandmother present and took many pictures.

I hope you can feel how happy these families are to receive your gift.

Again, thank you so much for your kind donation.

Dr. McGregor Leads Q&A About Covid Vaccines

Dr. Robert McGregor is the Chief Medical Officer of Akron Children's Hospital and Professor of Pediatrics at NEOMED. He spoke to our members about Covid and Covid vaccine status and distribution plans evolving in Akron as well the pros & cons of the new Covid vaccines. He then opened up an interactive and fairly lively Q and A session. View the presentation by clicking here or on the above graphics.

As CMO, Dr. McGregor is a voting member of Akron Children’s Hospital board of directors, and his CMO responsibilities include: implementing the hospital’s strategic plan; overseeing all provider clinical care delivery; directing medical education; and overseeing physician and nurse practitioner recruitment contracting and retention. During his tenure he has facilitated re-design of the quality oversight structure and has recently taken over the oversight of the Research Institute. For the past 11 months Dr. McGregor has serves as co-incident commander beside the Chief Operating officer and has been instrumental in working with the hospital and community throughout the pandemic on safety protocols. Prior to Akron Children's, Dr. McGregor was the pediatrician-in-chief and interim pediatrics chair at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children in Philadelphia and a pediatrics professor at the Drexel University College of Medicine.