While twelve Rotarians were enjoying Tim’s chicken stir fry, Bob Pope was first to rise (the Phoenix again) to ask President Tony to pass the gravel and proposed a fine of one-and- nine on him for the lack of dignity reflected by the flag stand made of a paper cup instead of using the one made of beautiful granite. It is embossed with the Barre Rotary Club insignia and proudly holding an imposing standard sized American flag. Loren tried taking some of the blame because of the “rush job nature” of the improvised excuse for the miniature flag and “stand.” No one bought it and the fine passed. Loren was on the rise again with a dollar announcing a celebration of the life of Christine Litchfield, a long time friend and employee of the Library. It will feature Anything Goes (Mark Greenberg and Ben Koenig) who will be performing a variety of American songs. Joe S. gave two Happy Dollars for the joy of receiving two books that he had recently requested from Aldrich. Nicole rose to remind us of the ambitious agenda ahead of us and to tell us she has a second interview for a job in Barre that she would very much like to have and asked us to wish her luck in securing the position. Joe S. was back to announce that a tribute to his uncle and former Barre Rotarian, Dick Shadroui, was being planned for August 13th at the Barre Opera House. He wondered if former Rotabarians would be interested in singing at that upcoming event. He then went on to pay a fine for his phone ringing, Happy Dollars for Bertil having tested negative for Covid-19 and for the celebration of his and his partner’s anniversary on April 13th.
Announcements
Tom announced that those members who would like to participate in Green Up Day should meet on Saturday, May 7 at 8:00 a.m. in the parking lot in front of Soup and Greens.
Karl announced that there will be a “staining party” at Rotary Park from 1:00 p.m.---5:00 p.m. on the same day. Many more helping hands are needed!
Since Last We Met
Club Anniversaries: Doug Bullet April 21 16 years
On this day in history: 1956 Rocky Marciano retires as World Heavyweight Champion.
1994 South Africa holds its first multiracial elections.
Club Assembly Minutes
Old Business
The March Club Assembly Minutes were reviewed and approved.
The 2021-22 “Proposed” Budget (Charitable and Operational) will be presented at the May Club Assembly as an overview of what was spent.
Ted and Eddie will provide us with an update of the donation allocations status (checks sent and responses received) at the May Club Assembly.
Karl Rinker, nominated at the March Club Assembly, was unanimously elected as member-at- large to the Board of Directors.
New Business
The decision whether or not to move our weekly meeting location was discussed. It was pointed out that we are losing money on the rental of the room at the American Legion and that there would be no fee for the Milne Room at Aldrich. Loren asked that we pay for a sandwich board sign which would indicate to passers-by that our meeting was being held. It would be placed next to the check-in table. It could also serve as a marketing tool for our Club. There are places where our banners can be hung, a television, a projector and a storage closet. George moved and Joe seconded that as of July 1, 2022 we hold our weekly meetings at the Aldrich Public Library. Motion passed unanimously.
b. Nicole provided us with information about the youth protection/background checks requirement for members of Rotary wanting to participate in youth programming. A major question is one regarding who should pay, the Club or the individual. This requirement will be discussed at a future meeting and policy and procedures will be developed.
c. Nicole led us in an exercise to develop a year-long calendar of Barre Rotary Club events. She will distribute it in the near future for review and comment.
d. Ted and Eddie will provide us with an update of the donation allocations status (checks sent and responses received) at the May Club Assembly.
e. Nicole asked members to provide feedback on the 2022-23 budget draft which will be presented in May for approval.
f. Eddie provided members with a detailed email update on the Annual Rotary Breakfast.