As in any previous year, we are looking forward to a wonderful period of growth, progress, and camaraderie that exemplifies the Stratford Rotary's mission: service above self. There will be some exciting changes coming, as well as directives from Stephanie and I. Together as a club, we will be able to celebrate these achievements as we accomplish them, which are highlighted by the four-way test.
Our meeting agenda will be a bit different this year; meetings will be for informational and clarity purposes only. Any deep dive discussions on any subjects will be tabled to a 1-hour Zoom meeting that will be set up by Dominic. Any and all parties interested are welcome to join the Zoom for further discussion. Any vote needed will then be brought up at a meeting. Speakers will be held to 20 minutes with a 5-minute QA. Lunch will be ready for the start of our meeting. Anyone wanting a guest on their designated date must confirm the date of the speaker with Jack Cratty only. The thought process behind these changes is to be respectful of everyone's time. That is why the meetings will be 1 hour strict. There will be a 15-minute social time before the meeting, and feel free to stay after as long as the Riverview bistro allows.
Committees are the backbone of every Rotary Club; ours is no different. PLEASE, if you have not joined two committees, find the ones that interest you the most and sign up. If you have any questions or concerns, I am available to help direct you to which committees need help. Many hands make light work, and together, we will achieve more.
I am proud to announce that my president's projects for this year are:
- The Connecticut Burns Care Foundation. Which is a 501c3 that supports burn survivors 8-17 all around the world attend our Aurther C Luf burn camp.
- The New Paradigm Theater. Is a nonprofit professional theater that has joined the Stratford community. During their summer rehearsal and performances, children ages 8-17 have the opportunity to learn from industry professionals, which end up culminates into a Broadway experience for the audience. This year's show is Hairspray, which will be at Stratford High School. Which envelops students from both Stratford and Bunnell High School.
I want to thank Harold Watson for his service and dedication this past year. His persistence to the definition of service above self goes above it's own definition. I look forward to a great year with all of you.