We all made our way into the small dining room. Very crowed and we made it without the help of greeters or maybe I missed them We had all tables filled. A great day.

The invocation was by Maj. Tim Foley. It was very meaningful and directed to Rotary and service above self.   The pledge was by Maxi “the Italian” B.  The patriotic song, God Bless America, was led by Lynne Neuman and without piano. Good job Lynne.

 

The lunch was Mexican wit tortillas and mixed vegetables and beef.  Guests were selected by Graig Allen.  Notable among them was Virginia Butler, Les’s better half, and Max Schauer who was with the Speaker Rici Viola.

There were many announcements: a thank you from Joan, Jim and Harry for the sponsors and attendees of the EOTY.  It was a great affair.   Peter McCormick, who just arrived on cue. He said he represented teacher’s view and complimented Joan and Jim for the great way that they selected the teachers and conducted the program.  Julia was next mentioning all those that have birthdays, anniversaries, and when you joined Rotary. We sang the usual off key happy Birthday, again without the piano. Where is John when you need him?  Julia and Suzy had invitations for the Holiday Party. Asking for RSVPs.  Julia was also passing out suspicious bags for support of a good cause.  Inka reported and mentioned the Guatemala trip in February.  It has sold out with 120 Rotarians and others going. What great way to see another part the world and see what the Annual Fund humanitarian projects provide for needy areas. Our donations at work! Where are they going next?

Phyllis announced the volunteer opportunities at the Boys and Girls Club for Thanksgiving volunteer support. Also to bring canned food this Friday.

Then Jim and I were up to honor Virginia Butler and Les Fishman for being named the PV Chamber Citizens of the Year. Our Club honored Virginia with a Paul Harris fellow certificate and pin. Les was awarded an additional level of PHF. We are very proud of our Power Couple!

The raffle winners were Mary Jane and Steve Day.

Finally at 1:15 Inka introduced Rici Viola a San Pedro member and the property manager at the port.  She gave an excellent description of Global Projects with participation with District 4250. She described what District 4250 does locally with the giving of ecological stoves to 985 families that were using open fires before. Over 7000 people benefit from the stoves.  There are six Global Projects in Guatemala that are underway funded by the District 5280 and the many Rotary Clubs of 5280. They are:

Rici hurried through her excellent presentation and stayed after to answer questions. Jim reached for the bell, a little late, but no one left. Rici should be invited back.