After fifteen Rotarians and two guests recited the Pledge of Allegiance, Arthur Zorn, our fearless conductor, led us in two versions of My Country ‘Tis of Thee, the standard one and the Zorn-Rotarized version.
Immediately after the last note was sung, Tony was on his feet with another plea to members who intend a meeting that they need to sign up and if not partaking of the victuals, so indicate in the box for comments. Patrick suggested a yes or no after the query: “Having the meal?” would solve part of the problem. Caroline interjected with a Happy Dollar for Patrick “equating Rotary with logic.” Bob Pope popped in with “Give us menus!” No solution was offered for how to get members to register in the first place. Tony will undoubtedly take the potpourri of advice that was served up on registering and having a meal or not and chew on it. Solution forthcoming. Until then, the number of meals will be determined by the mystical powers of President Eddie.
Introducing the New Director of the Library
Caroline rose to request an introduction of Garrett’s guest, the newly appointed Director of the Aldrich Public Library, Kristin Baumann. She hails from Block Island, off the coast of Rhode Island, and lived there for forty years. She has worked in many positions in the library and received her degree in library science from the University of Rhode Island. She believes that libraries strengthen communities, impact families and reconnect people whereas the internet “disconnects’ people. She moved back to Vermont because of family ties and looks forward to her work at Aldrich.
The Floor is All Yours
President Eddie took the floor to report that he had visited 802 Coffee and spoke to the owner (Bob Pope asked if he sold him an annuity.) about Rotarians coming for a tour and lunch. The request was warmly received and so President Eddie will shoot for a November 1st date for the tour.
President Eddie then announced (Jim missed it) that he and Sandy celebrated their anniversary. This editor could not verify the date since it is not listed in his personal profile. Perhaps he knows where it appears on our website.
Since Last We Met
Birthdays: Reta Sanders October 13
On this day in history: 1975 The TV sketch comedy and variety show Saturday Night Live debuted on NBC and became a landmark in American television.
On this day in history: 1776 Benedict Arnold fights valiantly at Valcour Island. While Valcour Island resulted in a tactical victory for the British, in the long run the battle proved to be a strategic victory for the American quest for independence.
Let the Dollars Roll In
Tony gave a Happy Dollar (50/50) for the great artwork hanging on the walls courtesy of Art Zorn and for Art bringing so much to our meetings.
Art followed suit (with whole dollars) by explaining the work previously displayed at the Supreme Court building has been distributed to various locales and are for sale: the Senior Center, Aldrich, Berlin Congressional Church and Lost Nation Theater are among the places where one can view his work. He expressed his gratitude to the community for its support.
Nicole threw a Happy Dollar in the basket as she recognized that Art and Dan were amazing people.
George added to the coffers with another Happy Dollar for Art’s paintings which are hanging in our meeting room.
Caroline offered a Happy Dollar because Paul is here, noting that was no small challenge to get him to attend our meeting.
Happy Dollars were generated by nuptial activity: Patrick’s daughter, Sarah, was married and Dan announced his own wedding date for next September 14th.
Tom gave a Happy Dollar for surviving a situation of his falling while water skiing, a sailboat bearing down on him and Karl to the rescue in his boat.
Tony jumped in with a Happy Dollar in anticipation of performing his duties inducting newly elected members into the club.
Bob Pope gave a Happy Dollar because President Eddie met his expectation that the duo would meet at 8:00 am to tee off. And they did!
Potential Future Meetings
Caroline suggested a service project meeting at which we would make crafts to donate to a crafts fair at St. Monica-St. Michael school.
Another meeting might feature the owner of Simply Subs.
Spaulding has asked us to come to lunch to hear about the experiences of two RYLA students who attended the leadership academy at Lyndon last June.
Paul is Inducted
Tony took center stage to conduct the induction ceremony for Paul Haigh which he did with his pleasing relaxed style. Caroline, sponsor, presented Paul with the Rotary member pin and Tony presented a kit which included a membership certificate among other helpful Rotary items. Paul was welcomed warmly by the Rotarians assembled.
Announcements
Caroline announced that on Tuesday, October 24, in observance of World Polio Day, she and hopefully Joe will be soliciting donations downtown and painting fingers purple to identify a donor. She is asking the club for $50.00 for expenses. Tom moved and George seconded that we authorize Caroline to spend up to $50.00 for costs incurred in carrying out this event. Motion approved unanimously.
Nicole asked the club to support her in going forward on a talent show fundraiser. Some potential contacts have been made and there is interest in pursuing the endeavor. If anyone is interested, let her know.
Nicole offered the idea of conducting a clothing swap similar to one she has run for years at Norwich. She is thinking of using the BOR for the event. The event could include other nonprofits and service clubs in the Barre Area. Since Norwich holds its event in the fall, she is thinking of spring for ours. She will present the particulars to the club at a future date.
Until next time, that's all folks.........