Good morning Rotarians, happy Thanksgiving week. 

Last week we had planned to go on a field trip to Forbins Finest but had to cancel last minute due to several staff members at Forbins being our sick. So we had an open meeting at the library instead. 

Updates

Eddie gave an update on the BOR Concession Stand, things are off to a good start and he is looking for help to staff the stand for the season. 

Assistant District Governor Louisa Tripp was with us last week. She provided some updates and reminders, the next regional training is happening on December 13 in Burlington. District training in Lyndonville will be held on April 18 and is a great event for all to attend. 

Find upcoming events HERE

Louisa also let us know that the district is looking for a new Assistant District Governor to take over her spot starting July 1, 2026. As an AG you visit area clubs quarterly in Northfield, Montpelier, Barre & Central VT, updating them on news, events and answer any questions they might have. If you're interested in this position or know someone who might be reach out to Louisa. 

Jim postponed our Rotary Magazine quiz until December 3rd when hopefully more will be in attendance. So if you haven't had a chance to read your magazine there's still time. 

Happy Dollars

Caroline started us off with happy dollars, she was happy for Louisa being able to join us and for the Gamers 4 Good group having a celebration for two of their members relocating to PEI, where they hope to start another G4G when there with one of the local Rotary clubs. She brought leftover sheet cake to share with her. 

Eddie shared that he traveled to PA to purchase and pick up a 2014 Porsche. On his way home he stopped in NYC to see his daughter Olivia  where they had a nice dinner and were able to catch up. 

Doug shared that he had a wonderful, and warm trip to NC recently. 

Tony shared that he would like to locate a Lionel passenger car for his Christmas Train set to help his grandson Miles celebrate his first Christmas. 

Doug also offered a nice update on the Guatemalan Chocolate Project. We donated $1,000 to the project and also heard from Elisa during one of our meetings. Some highlights of what they were able to do with the money we provided were being able to purchase an electric molino (grinder) to make it easier on the women so they don't have to grind the cacao beans by hand. They also purchased a special refrigerator just for the chocolates helping to avoid cross contamination. The women were able to create a logo and hire another teacher to learn new techniques. Some of these included learning to make cake pops and chocolate bombs. The women have been busy selling their products at bazaars, other public events and on a daily basis in the lobby of the organization's office. 

Elisa's time with the project is ending in December but has been working closely with those who will help this project continue into the future. With a goal of the current participants eventually teaching new participants who would like to be involved in the project. 

Reminders

No meeting this week, November 26th. Enjoy Thanksgiving with your friends and family. 

Our holiday party will be held on December 17th at noon. Feel free to mark this on your calendar, an official invite will be coming out soon once we solidify our lunch menu.