Rotary Log for December 20, 2018

 

President Cleo opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance. Al Lantinen led us in song, Bill Powers directed the 4-Way Test and John Rice intoned the invocation.  

Guests and visiting Rotarians were introduced and general announcements presented.  Neal Ouellett says that the Nominating Committee is presenting its slate of nominees at the January 10 meeting.  Crossroads, this year’s  charity partner, has a need for food prep help this Saturday. All are invited to step up for a turn.

Christmas Tree Sales were deemed a success, selling out with several days to go.  Hearty thanks to all who worked so hard at this major fundraiser. And a tip of the hat to Mother Nature, too, for the warmer than usual weather!

New member Valerie Dyer was introduced by Peter George. The northern Maine native is said to be a potato expert. That would seem to be hard to avoid if you come from “the County.”  Welcome aboard, Valerie!

 

 

Jon Flagg presented his Historical Minute.  It seems the price of the meal in 1942 was $1.25! That’s about $19.26 in 2018 dollars so our luncheon fee  really hasn’t changed much.  Gas retailed at a paltry 15 cents a gallon back then. But that’s about $2.34 in 2018 dollars, nearly the same as what gas is worth today. And you were longing for the good old days!?

 

 

The club honored our wait staff, Steven and Melanie. They took home cash gifts to which we all contributed.  Thank you for a job well done all year long!Albie Sampson won the $50 raffle prize. No match.

 

 

Dave Holden, in Cuzin Richie’s absence, introduced our Christmas entertainment, Shelli LaTorre. The Dover resident is an accomplished pianist and vocalist with a versatile repertoire. Shelli opened with “Linus and Lucy” from the Charlie Brown Christmas special. The instrumental piece was written by Vince Guaraldi for the 1965 animated film. To those of us who were around then, the tune conjures up many Christmas memories.

 

 

Two old rock tunes followed, recalling the days of vinyl records and radio listening. I believe Eartha Kitt would have approved of her playful rendition of “Santa Baby.”  Sad that it might not be considered PC today. Shelli further displayed her vocal talent and versatility with “White Christmas,” “Winter Wonderland,” and “What are you doing New Years?” I, for one, feel her choices were great.  A fine ending to a great year for the Portsmouth Rotary.  Until next December, Happy Holidays!