RONE
Reporter: Mary Richardson
April 16th
Presiding: Rodney Green
Invocation: Gary Young – May 1st is the National Day of Prayer. Gary read an invocation that he wrote especially for this occasion.
Fellowship: Nancy Gentes told us about the Easter Bunny. He was first introduced in the 1700’s by German immigrants to Pennsylvania. Legend has it that the rabbit would lay colorful eggs as gifts to children who were good. The children would make nests for the bunny and sometimes even left out carrots in case he was hungry. Over time, the bunny’s delivery has expanded to include chocolates and toys. Easter baskets have gotten more elaborate over the years as a trip to the store will show.
Birthdays: Steve Martin, today, April 16th!
Rotarian Anniversaries: Kathryn Tracey, 6 years on April 17th.
Rotarians with guests: Steve Martin had Jennifer Zeronsa from United Way, and Susy Hurlbert introduced Eileen Dolan.
Membership Minute: Paul Gaffney reminded us again that there will be a member recruiting effort at the Whiskey, Wine, & Cigar event on May 7th. There will be an information table set up for anyone interested in membership.
Announcements: Rodney Green:
Rodney announced that Happy Dollars today would benefit Barbara Stanley, a victim of the fire on Otis Street in Norwich. Barbara’s sister, Eileen, read a very moving account of Barbara’s hardships as a result of the fire.
In addition, the Happy Dollars Committee is working on a donation.
Happy Dollars: Mike Matera
Many people stepped up to help Barbara and all generously expressed their care and concern:
Mike Matera, Rodney Green, Gary Young, Kevin Wickless, Michael Vaz, Bill Champagne,
Atalya Champalath, Pat Marshall, Steve Martin, Nancy Gentes, Cary Trantalis, Molly Bruno, Margarida Martins-Querido, Paul Gaffney, Barry Shead, Bonnie Johnson, Jim Daly, Jennifer Zeronsa, and Mary Richardson.
Auction: with Cary Trantalis. A very cool two-piece coffee brewer from Portugal was taken home by Susy Hurlbert.
Lottery: with Barry Shead. Paul Gaffney, Mary Richardson, and Atalya Champalath all struck out. Bill Champagne was the lucky winner of the cookies!
Program: Jennifer Zeronsa from United Way talked about coordinating with local Rotary Clubs that will participate in the Epic Day of Service on May 17th. The meals are designed by nutritionists to be healthy. They are also cost-effective to produce. Steve Martin is the lead for our club and will email information again soon. For those who have not participated in the event, it is a lot of FUN!
Bonnie Johnson us in The Four Way Test to close the meeting.
RONE Reporter – Mary Richardson