Eleven Rotarians helped themselves to a buffet of Swedish meatballs, noodles, salad and cookies at Delicate Decadence before a visit to the Barre Opera House. President Tony was first on his feet and headed for the table where George and I sat and presented George with a card in celebration of his birthday. George acknowledged with thanks and appreciation. Caroline was next up with several Happy Dollars; one for her guest Mike Brancoff’s presence and others for support from family members. President Tony announced that Karl had broken his ankle in two places while skiing. He will be out for the rest of season---they don’t know Karl. Bertil threw three dollars into the basket because his recent trip to Sweden took three days including six hours on a plane in Burlington.
A Constitutional Moment
Caroline was back in the spotlight with her Constitutional Moment. She reported that the State of the Union was the only speech required by the Constitution: “He shall from time to time give to the Congress Information of the State of the Union, and recommend to their Consideration such Measures as he shall judge necessary and expedient;...” The President is invited by the Speaker of the House and so the date is not fixed, but depends on circumstances as judged by the Speaker.
Rotary International Responds to the Crisis in Ukraine
Back to Caroline who read a statement from Rotary International regarding the situation in Ukraine. At Rotary, we are deeply concerned by the devastating situation in Ukraine and the escalating loss of life and humanitarian hardship there. Continued military action against Ukraine will not only devastate the region, but also risk spreading tragic consequences across Europe and the world. The statement goes on to describe plans that have been put in place for Rotary to “respond and support the horrific and ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.” Donations can be made directly using this link.
Eddie presented a slate of officers and committee chairs for 2022-23: PE: Eddie Rousse; VP: Doug Bullett; Secretary/Asst: Jim Catone: Treasurer/Asst: Ted Goulette and Cindy Locke; Sergeant at Arms: Bruce Fischer; Song Master: Joseph Shadroui; Donations Committee Chair: Eddie Rousse; Youth Programs Chair: Is this something we’ve done? Perhaps Loren would be interested? Or Brenda? “Foundation” 501c-3 Board Chair: Cindy? Club Financial Committee Board Chair: Tom? Rotary Foundation Chair: Alona Tate.
A New Look at the Barre Opera House
After we finished lunch, we moved to the Opera House where President Tony introduced Dan Casey, its director. Dan began his talk with a description of the improvements made in the last couple years through a campaign that raised $1.2 million. The major ones include replacing the rigging, installing new seats, upgrading technology and painting the entire facility. Some others that he mentioned were adding a working kitchen, installing a marquee in the lobby and adding a new lighting booth. Thanks to an anonymous donor, a replica of a curtain that had been used for many years has been installed. Dan told us that the Opera House features 20-25 shows a year and sponsors a vibrant summer school for kids. We also saw three Steinways, one of which was donated by the late fellow Rotarian Dick Shadroui. An informative and enthusiastic presentation was appreciated by the Rotarians in attendance and they showed it with a warm round of applause. Good job Dan.
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first on his feet and headed for the table where George and I sat and presented George with a card in celebration of his birthday. George acknowledged with thanks and appreciation. Caroline was next up with several Happy Dollars; one for her guest Mike Brancoff’s presence and others for support from family members. President Tony announced that Karl had broken his ankle in two places while skiing. He will be out for the rest of season---they don’t know Karl. Bertil threw three dollars into the basket because his recent trip to Sweden took three days including six hours on a plane in Burlington. 
Caroline was back in the spotlight with her Constitutional Moment. She reported that the State of the Union was the only speech required by the Constitution: “He shall from time to time give to the Congress Information of the State of the Union, and recommend to their Consideration such Measures as he shall judge necessary and expedient;...” The President is invited by the Speaker of the House and so the date is not fixed, but depends on circumstances as judged by the Speaker. 
After we finished lunch, we moved to the Opera House where President Tony introduced Dan Casey, its director. Dan began his talk with a description of the improvements made in the last couple years through a campaign that raised $1.2 million. The major ones include replacing the rigging, installing new seats, upgrading technology and painting the entire facility. Some others that he mentioned were adding a working kitchen, installing a marquee in the lobby and adding a new lighting booth. Thanks to an .jpg)
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