At the Nov 21 meeting, Rotary Club President, Gudiel Crosthwaite, called the meeting to order.
Before the presentation by the speaker, there was brief discussion of several items.
There was mention that the Rotary Club has registered to be a parade participant for the Fri, Dec 6, Annual Candy Cane, Christmas Parade. More info will be provided about the financial results of this event.
There was discussion of the great success and enjoyment of the Second Food Festival at the home of Lupe and Ramon Rodriguez in Lynwood, on Fri, evening Nov 15. President Crosthwaite thanked everyone who helped make this event successful.
There was mention of gift booklets to give out as part of a Thanksgiving event at a Senior Home.
President Crosthwaite introduced guest Elsa Chagolla, who is new LUSD staff member, Executive Director of the district’s Educational Foundation. Also guests Laura Soloraza, Maria Viera and Ana Borraza were introduced.
President Crosthwaite mentioned that he attended the memorial service for Juan Enciso, on Wed afternoon, at Plaza Mexico, which event was attended by several City of Lynwood Council members. Martina Rodriguez mentioned that she would attend a memorial event for Juan Enciso at the Cemetery in Long Beach.
Daniel mentioned that he would attend the meeting to be held at Bateman Hall, that evening on community discussions about the LA River, in particular, about changes to the southern half of the 50 mile long river, that begins in the San Fernando Valley and ends at the ocean in Long Beach. The questions are how the LA River and adjacent areas can be made more attractive for recreational purposes and outdoor enjoyment.
Daniel introduced the speaker, J.D. Whitaker, who is the City of Lynwood Manager of Public Safety, and other responsibilities, to speak on the history and significance of Harriet Tubman.
J. D. Whitaker used a PowerPoint presentation to talk about the significance of Harriet Tubman. He outlined the current movie, “Harriet” that presents her life. He noted that there is some controversial aspects of her life, in leading members of her family and ultimately about 300 slaves from the South to the area of Philadelphia, during the Civil War. Her accomplishments are known as “The Underground Railroad.” J.D. noted that the actress in the movie, is not African American, rather she is from Great Britain, so she is African – British. J.D. mentioned John Brown, as partnering with Harriet She served in the Northern Army, and in part served as a spy for the North. She was recognized by President Lincoln for her service. She always carried a pistol. She had eight siblings and several husbands. She sometimes dressed as a man for her work in the Army.
J.D. mentioned some current issues that go back to the days of slavery, such as the controversial issue of reparations for African Americans. Also he talked about several Supreme Court decisions relating to civil rights. And he mentioned the proposal to have Harriet Tubman pictured on the US twenty dollar bill. J.D. talked about the proposal to obtain approval from the City of Lynwood to have a sign posted at one or both ends of Harriet Tubman Lane adjacent to the Lynwood City Hall.
Daniel Miller Public Relations/ Community Outreach Lynwood Rotary Club