Events

Andover Rotary Club welcomes 24-25 President Al Timm

Craig Gibson is a well known bird and conservation photographer. His ongoing focus is on expanding awareness about the Winter Crow Roost in Lawrence, MA, the extended Merrimack Valley area, and Eastern Massachusetts. Craig designed and launched the blog and continues to oversee all editorial content. He has also been the lead on initiating and coordinating a range of activities and events with local arts, education, and community groups as well as working with a growing number of conservation and environmental organizations. He wrote and published a comprehensive 14 page report to recap the 2018-2019 winter season, a roost photography guide, and a roost counting guide. Overall, his efforts have raised much greater awareness of the Winter Crow Roost, and he has been a catalyst for a range of new community science initiatives.

In the fall 2017, after tracking the roost since 2010, Craig worked together in close collaboration with other local birders to form the Crow Patrol in the Lawrence area. Over the past seven winter seasons, he has personally documented more than 425 observation nights, while monitoring, documenting, and photographing the overnight staging and roosting of American and Fish Crows. Craig has made over 350 Crow Roost specific postings to eBird, an especially important data portal for open access citizen science projects around the globe. As an active birding videographer, Craig was invited in January 2024 to participate in video upload privileges for his eBird account.

Craig worked closely with staff and leadership at the Essex Art Center in Lawrence, MA to create the “Celebrating the Winter Crow Roost” art exhibit in 2019. The exhibit was a big success with record turnouts and lots of media coverage. The EAC hosted the exhibit for a second year in 2020, with an expanded group of participating artists. He worked closely with staff at El Taller Cafe and Bookstore in Lawrence, MA for a Crow-themed art exhibit that opened in February 2020 and received great acclaim. In an effort to help other bird and wildlife photographers, he wrote and published the “Winter Crow Roost Photography Guide” in late 2020.

Julie was a Marblehead, MA management consultant and author, and she knows how you can suddenly
lose everything with a debilitating illness (or accident.) For her, it was a stroke.

Seven years ago, she had one. She was found by friends three days later on the floor of her apartment
(she lives alone). In those three days, her stroke went from being ischemic (being caused by a blood clot)
to the more serious and lethal condition of having a brain bleed (a hemorrhagic stroke). she couldn’t
talk, and her reading slid back to elementary-school levels: aphasia had taken her words from her. She
suffered the death of between 20-25% of her brain cells – and brain cells don’t heal. Dead is dead! And
she lost the use of the right side of her body.

But she fought back, and she’s since made considerable gains towards recovery. These are the reasons
why she founded Cecropia Strong: a charity that aids folks with disabilities.

In 2006, while watching PBS ‘Antiques Roadshow’, they announced the next show to
air was a Bill Moyers Wide Angle documentary called ‘Unfinished Country’. Previews
about the documentary showed Haitian elections, and environmental concerns, with
a photo of a mountain range with a man on an ATV. The man shown was the founder
of the group ‘Fondation Seguin’, which was featured throughout the documentary.

While already doing business in the Dominican Republic, and having never been to
Haiti, I decided to contact the group from the documentary to offer them donations
and supplies I collected as President of the Plaistow Lions Club. Also, I wanted to
show them the products and services for erosion and dust control that my company
offered. I flew to Haiti, and met with Serge Cantave and Winthrop Attie, who were
the co-founders of Fondation Seguin featured in the documentary.

They were planting more than five hundred thousand trees per year, from a nursery
on top of one of the tallest mountains in Haiti in Parc la Visite. Since the 2010
earthquake, several hurricanes, and political unrest, Fondation Seguin has lost many
members and is no longer active. I co-founded Trees4Haiti.org with VP Winthrop
Attie and we continue to maintain and support the nursery, planting at least
100,000 trees per year.

David has had a successful career as a technology and thought leader, and combines that with his passion and talent as a magician, mentalist and stage hypnotist, to create unique
experiences of Entertainment, Education and Enlightenment. David discovered how the principles of a mystery performer can be used to become an overall better communicator, and using this unique insight, he has developed the Tactical Communication Method. Success in all aspects of business and in life is about relationships and communications. In fact, according to Forbes, more people fear speaking to a group than death! Through audience interaction at in-person as well as digital events, David shares techniques and tools to build effective communication skills with his audiences.

Whether interpersonal or business-related communications, engagement is critical, and is also one of the most misunderstood concepts. As a performer, David has mastered the art of developing rapid rapport with individuals and groups, and used that to create massive success in his personal and professional life and he brings this to organizational events world wide. David, through his lens of a performer, creates interactive experiences to enable his audiences to develop the kind of rapid rapport that they can use immediately and will remember for the rest of their lives.

David has developed and delivered customized experiences for individuals and teams including Sales, Management and Leadership training, as well as university classes. From the living room, to the classroom, to the auditorium, David demonstrates true engagement

About Dr. Parvey:

Dr. Magda Parvey began her tenure as superintendent of the Andover Public Schools in July 2021. Most recently, Dr. Parvey was the Chief Academic Officer for Middletown Public Schools in Middletown, Connecticut. In this role, Dr. Parvey oversaw all instructional programs and was charged with developing robust short- and long-range goals for Middletown’s Strategic Operating Plan. This position was seen as an integral part of the district’s effort to provide all students with rigorous learning experiences and prepare them to thrive as critical thinkers and problem solvers who are college and/or career ready. Her depth of experience and knowledge in curriculum design, instructional leadership and supervision were crucial components to the district’s strategic plan.

Prior to her appointment in Middletown, Dr. Parvey helmed the City School District of New Rochelle as Interim Superintendent, leading Westchester County’s second-largest school system through a time of great transition. A wise and effective decision maker with a strong belief in leading by forming relationships, she provided a sense of calm and stability to the District of 11,000 students. In New Rochelle, she promoted a rigorous curriculum, with a focus on offering access to opportunities for all students. With the faculty, she focused on professional learning, and promoted a culture of learning and collaboration. Her approach was to listen well and to engage her fellow administrators, teachers and others in pursuing the District’s mission.

As a lifelong educator, Dr. Parvey has held multiple leadership positions during her over 25 years of experience in school systems in Connecticut, North Carolina and New York. She is a graduate of Canisius College from which she holds a Bachelor of Arts. Dr. Parvey holds a Master of Science degree in elementary education and a Master of Arts in educational leadership and technology, both from Adelphi University; and a Doctor of Education in administration and supervision from Fordham University.

About Mr. D'Andrea: 

Mr. D’Andrea comes to Andover High School with 23 years of experience in public education. He currently serves as the principal of Cheltenham High School, just north of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Prior to his work at Cheltenham High School, he served as an administrator in Montgomery County (MD) Public Schools for 15 years, including 4 years as the principal of Kingsview Middle School and 5 years as the principal of Northwest High School.

Mr. D’Andrea started his career in education at Anacostia Senior High School in Washington, DC, serving as a biology and chemistry teacher, 9th grade team leader, and academy coordinator. He was named the Washington Post Teacher of the Year for Washington, DC, in 2006. Mr. D'Andrea holds a bachelor’s degree from Vanderbilt University, master’s degrees from George Washington University and the University of Illinois at Chicago, and a graduate certificate in school administration and supervision from Johns Hopkins University. He is very excited about joining the team at Andover High School and plans to relocate to the Town of Andover this summer.

Thomas Hankard, District 7930
Rotary Club of Belle Isle
 
Thomas Hankard joined the Rotary Club of East Boston-Revere in 2011 at the age of 27.
Tom served as Club President in 2013-14 and is a proud member of the resulting Rotary
Club of Belle Isle, serving East Boston, Revere, and Winthrop of which he was
instrumental in forming. He has also served as chair and secretary of the Belle Isle
Rotary Club Foundation.
In District 7930, Tom served as District Registrar for five years starting in 2015 after
being appointed to that role by his Rotary Mentor, the late Past District Governor
Robert C. Wood. Tom served as Governor's Aide to Past District Governor Terry
Rezendes Curran and served as an Assistant Governor for eight years starting in 2016
and was Assistant Governor Coordinator from 2019 to 2021. In addition, Tom has
served on the District Managed Grants, Visioning, Public Image, and Membership
Committees among others. He chaired multiple committees including the District
Conference, Polar Plunge, and Credentials and Balloting Committees. Tom has also
served as District Trainer.   
 
Tom is a proud graduate of Malden Catholic High School, which was named 'Best High
School in America' by US News and World Report while Tom was a student there. He
earned his Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Secondary Education, summa cum
laude, from Merrimack College; and was also elected Class President. Later, he earned
his Master of Business Administration, with distinction, from Cambridge College. 
Professionally, Tom is the chief executive of a financial institution headquartered on the
North Shore which has experienced tremendous growth during his tenure. Prior to his
current role, Tom worked for several regional banks and credit unions specializing in
leadership and management, community outreach, relationship building, growth,
mortgage origination, and loan underwriting. Further, Tom was named a 'Credit Union
Hero' by "Banker and Tradesman." Tom has served on the boards of multiple non-profit
organizations, secondary schools, community and cultural groups, as well as several
regional Chambers of Commerce. 
 
Tom is a multiple Paul Harris Fellow, a Rotary Foundation Major Donor, a member of
The Bequest Society, and also is a member of the Rotary International LGBT+
Fellowship.

Mode Andover is excited to prepare for our 3rd Annual Whoville Event at MODE Andover, located at One Dundee Park, Building One, Suite 6. This heartwarming event is a favorite among our volunteers and brings joy to every child who participates. We transform kids into little citizens of Whoville with wardrobe, hair, nails, and face painting. The day is filled with actors, a DJ, and plenty of holiday cheer, culminating in the Andover Santa Parade.

This enchanting event celebrates the spirit of Whoville, offering children and families an immersive experience filled with makeovers, movie screenings, a DIY hot cocoa bar, and more. As our event's popularity has grown, so has the opportunity to make a significant impact on our community.  

We are excited to announce that this year's Whobilation will continue its tradition of giving back to our community heroes. A portion of the proceeds from Whobilation will be donated to the Andover Firefighter's Relief Foundation. Your support will contribute to the wellbeing of those who tirelessly serve our community and ensure that their dedication is recognized and appreciated.

My name is Kristina Ploof and I am the Volunteer Recruiter for an amazing mentoring program called "Big Friends Little Friends". Similar to the "Big Brother Big Sister" model, this is a community-based program where mentors dedicate at least two hours a month to spend time with a young kid in our community. After being screened it, trained, and interviewed, our mentors are matched with a mentee who we think would be a great fit for them. As a student pursuing a master's degree in social work, I can't speak highly enough about this program and the benefits it has for children in need. Programs like ours make sure that kids are avoiding risky behaviors and, instead, feel motivated to excel in their lives. I look forward to connecting with you all about our program and am hopeful that some of you will join us in this great opportunity to give back to our Merrimack Valley community!

With over 30 years of experience as a business owner and consultant, combined with a 20-year teaching career as an Adjunct Professor of Business at Suffolk University (Boston), John has developed a deep and practical understanding of the financial, marketing, sales, operations, and human challenges that organizations face today.  

John is known for his unique ability to quickly assess an organization’s needs and work closely with leaders to implement strategic, tactical, and leadership initiatives that drive real results. His approach is rooted in both academic rigor and hands-on experience, earning him the nickname “prac-ademic.”  

John’s boundless energy and passion for excellence shine through in every interaction. He’s helped hundreds of individuals, teams, and organizations thrive in their industries by delivering insights with depth, clarity, and a people-centric, data-driven approach that consistently achieves desired outcomes.

John offers one-on-one and group coaching programs specifically designed for CEOs and business owners of small to medium-sized companies and non-profit organizations, guiding them toward success and sustainable growth

John Bottei is a Community Sponsorship and Engagement Specialist at Catholic Charities of Boston. He earned a Bachelor's degree in International Studies from Boston College with a concentration in Ethics and Social Justice. In his current role in the Refugee and Immigrant Services division, he connects community organizations and communities of faith with families served by the agency in eastern Massachusetts. These community sponsorship groups partner with Catholic Charities to provide companionship and support for a family in the transition to their new community, giving members an opportunity to empower the family as they move towards self-sufficiency. John is committed to accompanying those who are most in need in his community, and he strives to do so through his work. 

Vin was an Andover resident for over 30 years before moving to Salem, New Hampshire last May. He is widowed and has 3 children from 23 to 29 including the current JV basketball coach at Andover High (John), a doctor in physical therapy (Emily) and a recent graduate of Endicott College (Alex).

After a successful career in corporate America, Vin decided to combine two of his favorite hobbies – trivia and music to form his current company Trivia and Tunes. He designs and hosts trivia games made specifically for his audience with musical clues. His primary audience consists of senior centers and residences and he has hosted games for fundraisers, private parties, corporate events, organizations and schools. His most memorable game was a baseball opening day trivia game for Dana Farber fundraisers for over 200 people. This game was part of an on-line event highlighted by a Tim Wakefield Q and A session. People love his game as witnessed by his 99.8% satisfaction rate. To learn more, check out his web site at triviaandtunes.com.

Melissa Pennington is a dedicated advocate for youth, with over a decade of experience in the non-profit sector. Throughout her career, she has championed initiatives that go beyond academics, focusing on enhancing opportunities for young people to succeed in all aspects of life. Melissa has spearheaded programs offering mentorship, life skills training, and extracurricular activities, fostering environments where youth can explore their full potential and build the confidence to pursue their dreams.

Her work has centered on bridging gaps in access to essential resources, particularly for those from marginalized communities. From partnering with local organizations to secure funding and create impactful outreach programs, to leading teams that mentor at-risk youth, Melissa’s leadership has consistently brought meaningful change.

Driven by a deep passion for social justice and equality, Melissa is committed to ensuring every young person she serves has the tools, support, and encouragement to thrive outside the classroom. Through her strategic vision and collaborative spirit, she continues to transform lives, one initiative at a time.

 Melissa currently serves as the Associate Program Director at Playworks, an organization dedicated to transforming children’s social and emotional health through the power of play. Playworks partners with schools to create safe, inclusive environments for play, where children can develop crucial skills like teamwork, conflict resolution, and leadership. Through structured recess programs, Playworks helps foster positive relationships and encourages physical activity, supporting students' holistic development.  

Join the team from Ironstone Farm to hear more about what's happening with the herd! We also have new volunteer opportunities!  This week's meeting will be at the Ironstone Farm location.  Members should use 456 Lowell Street, Andover MA as the address for their GPS (Different from the website which says 450 Lowell).  At the entrance are two stone pillars.  Once you pull in you can park anywhere in the lot - including the grass areas.   We will meet in the basement of the big brown farmhouse.  You can walk through the grass down to the basement entrance (door is under the deck).  We look forward to seeing everyone.

Dan Strollo, Executive Director – In Control Family Foundation - a nonprofit offering the nation's first state certified closed course, hands-on crash prevention training.

www.driveincontrol.org

Dan is a father of four with a background in the auto industry, marketing and construction.  He first learned of In Control back in 2006 and has led the organization for over 15 years, reaching 40,000+ students and saving countless lives in the process.  Today, his goal is to educate you on how dangerous driving has become and offer some tips to keep you and your family safer on our roads.

Common Man for Ukraine’s co-founders turned small-town New Hampshire heart into global impact, refusing to stand idly by after the February 2022 invasion. Without a clear path to help Ukraine’s children, the four volunteers reached out and built one. 

Inspired by our Plymouth Rotary Foundation's commitment to Service Above Self, our all-volunteer team efficiently and effectively partners with fellow Rotarians on the ground to deliver impactful relief programs for Ukraine's most vulnerable children.

With every humanitarian trip our co-founders lead, it becomes clear that the needs of Ukraine's children of war keep growing both in scope and complexity.

Starting with an effort to feed the children and heat their safe houses, the toll on their mental health became increasingly clear -- leading to the launch of our trauma counseling initiatives.

Aaron’s Presents is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that offers 1) hands-on, individualized mentoring, 2) materials/services, and 3) logistical help to any child in 8th grade or below who wants to carry out an idea that benefits at least one other person, animal, and/or the environment. We follow the children’s vision as they create and lead a memorable, meaningful, and fun experience by practicing kindness, empathy, and generosity.

In the process, the children discover the value of their ideas and unique qualities and their ability to make the world better exactly as they are at every age and stage. Ours is a new approach to “community service”, because we’re asking kids to start seeing giving not as an occasional obligation but as their larger purpose.

Leah Okimoto started Aaron’s Presents in January 2014 as a way to honor the memory of her son. At other phases of her life, she has composed music for musical theatre, run a legal recruiting firm, tutored and mentored kids, and volunteered at homeless shelters, hospitals, schools and meal kitchens. She graduated from Harvard University in 1998 and currently lives on the campus of Phillips Academy in Andover, MA with her husband and two daughters.

Top Notch Scholars positions inner-city youth for success based on the principles of Intentional Psychology, an approach that’s been effective in helping improve human performance & achievement.

Andover's Leadership Academy is an 12 week course designed to enhance townspeople's understanding of Town government operations and for municipal leaders and townspeople to learn from one another through conversation. The program is designed to advance understanding of and participation in civic affairs as well as to increase awareness of the challenges facing municipal government.

For the past seven years Andover Rotary has hauled in more money from a day of bell ringing for the Salvation Army than any other group in the Greater Lawrence area.

This year we go for our 8^th year. Our secret? Corny music and bad dancing.

On Friday, December 20, from 9:00 to 5:00, in front of Old Town Hall, come ring with us and drop some bills in the kettle.