The Governor Lends a Hand (Literally)

Shortly after helping ourselves to a buffet, Governor Phil Scott arrived to talk about Wheels for Warmth and draw three raffle tickets for sculptures of his racing cars. He remembered listening to WDEV’s Trading Post and about  the Karen Kitzmiller Coat Drive. He started thinking about how he could help in a  similar way with such an endeavor. He came up with Wheels for Warmth in 2005. Tires are collected, inspected and separated as to those that are recyclable and to those that are saleable. Recyclable ones are sold and sent to Maine and those that are road worthy are sold for “pennies on the dollar” to those who cannot afford new tires. Money raised is given to community organizations, such as Capstone, which distribute to those who need to meet the costs for heating. Cooperating organizations include Casella, Bourne, DuBois and WDEV. Since its inception, the program has contributed $600,000 for fuel assistance and has sold or recycled a total of 70,000 tires. The Governor drew three winning tickets for his racing cars donated by Tom Lauzon which he had purchased at the Barre Art Splash Auction. Based on raffle ticket sales, $2,562.50 was donated to Wheels for Warmth and an equal amount went to the Rotary Club of Barre which sold the tickets. The three winners were Brian Zecchinelli, Swenson Granite and Rock of Ages.

Nicole Reports

Nicole reported that Abby Doyle has left for Tanzania and will spend six days on site assessing the progress of the international project started over ten years ago. She also told us that three Barre Rotarians are sponsoring children in Tanzania. She thanked us for the donation of $500 which allowed her to buy gifts for twenty five Tatum Totes, a United Way sponsored program, for children in need.

A Constitutional Moment

Caroline's focus this week was on the notion of a person serving two terms as President of the United States. It was brought to light that one can serve only two terms, consecutive or not, as a result of the passage of 22nd Amendment. 

Since Last We Met

On this day in history: 1969 President Nixon announces that the Vietnam War is ending.

1980 John Lennon is shot.

Guests: Ciindy Locke (Soon to be a Barre Rotarian.)

Joslyn Letourneau (Guest of Joe Preddy.)

The Governor’s Presence Generates Happy Dollars

Caroline, Cindy, Doug and Tony all threw dollars in the basket, a majority with the tag “being happy that the Governor was here.”

World Santa Wrap

On Saturday, December 11th about twenty wrappers gathered to wrap 120 boxes of coats, hats, mittens and books for those in need as identified by the Salvation Army. After the wrapping session, those assembled enjoyed a potluck brunch and each other knowing that others would be warmer this winter due to their efforts.

Until next time, that's all folks,,,,