Granite Chips

 

June 10, 2015

 

After our usual rituals, singing, pledging and giving thanks, we sat down to a lunch of ground beef over penne and a salad. Our first break from this noontime repast came when Tony commanded Presiding President Zack’s attention to give a Happy Dollar because “we were filled to the brim (not our stomachs); every seat was taken.” Karl followed up with three announcements: 1) because of Bob Pope’s generosity, we are giving a granite flag holder to the new Rotary Sunrise Club in Randolph; 2) a thanks to Zack for including a notice of our meetings in the Times Argus; and 3) invitations for the Changeover Dinner are on the tables. After a brief interlude, the Secretary’s Report was given by Sue; she asked Karl to introduce Rebecca Durnaleau, Executive Director of OUR House, which he did. (Since the meeting, her application has been approved by the Board of Directors and is now a candidate for membership.) Next on the unofficial agenda was the murder of Mack the Knife; actually the singing of it, but definitely “scarlet billows started to spread.” (Translation: it was bloody awful. Sue even threatened to join the Rotabarrians.)

Our program for today was a presentation by Max Barrows of Green Mountain Self-Advocates; an organization of people with developmental disabilities who advocate for themselves. Their stated purpose is: “…to take control over their own lives, make decisions, solve problems and speak for themselves. We educate and make the public aware of the strengths, rights, wants and needs of people with developmental disabilities.” We began with an activity which involved reading statements from people with developmental disabilities tied around a rock and kept in a backpack. Rotarians then shared their perceptions of the experience: “they were real; you sensed frustration; there is something to be learned from each other; this was a powerful to increase understanding.” Max explained that the statements tied to the rocks in a backpack represented what people with developmental disabilities carry around with them each day. He then talked about challenges, outcomes and activities of the group.  Among the major activities are: training of trainers; assessing safety; voter education training; leadership training; conducting workshops for schools and community groups; peer-run employment support groups; and sexuality education. The presentation was well-received and many expressed that their understanding of people with developmental disabilities was greatly increased.

Lianne, once again, drew the winning raffle ticket, but, once again, failed to take home the whole enchilada. Better luck next time, Lianne.