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Our invocation was offered by Ben Durbin and then Keith Olson led us in song. To honor a request of long-time Rotarian Mike Wollan, who died on April 30th, we circled our song leader and sang Let Me Call You Sweetheart twice, with the assistance of Mike's children, Greg Wollan, Vicki Wollan Smith (and her fiancé, Craig McKown), and Debra Wollan, recorded and to be replayed at the upcoming nuptials of Vicki and Craig. Kathy Austvold introduced her good friend, Mary Beth Schindler, while Mike Clark introduced his wife Dawn and Keith Olson introduced his wife Kim, and their grandson Lucas. Also with us was Anthony Nordan's daughter, Debra, who lounged comfortably in her baby carrier throughout most of the meeting. Honorary Rotarian Elaine Olson was also in attendance, as were Sunrise Rotarians Stan Sethre, Carolyn Glesne and Richard Kegan (the latter, Anna Wasecha's spouse). President Steve talked about the tree planting scheduled for Monday afternoon, May 7th, which has now actually occurred, just in time for the nice rain we have received since Monday evening. Steve was well prepared for the planting, placing a large tank in the back of his pickup and filling it with water. He was assisted in the effort by Stan Carignan, Dave Johnson, Keith Olson, Bob Russell and Pepe. We planted 75 sand cherry brushes on the south side of the City water tower on Highway 27 and two apple trees at the Community Garden. At the latter, we were replacing one tree that was not doing well but Steve indicated he was going to take it home, replant it and see what comes of it. Pepe was the chef and program for the day, doing an excellent job at both, with help from Deanna and Bill on the food side of it. The main dish that was served is called cochito, which is pork pieces that are marinated in various spices, including dried pepper. Served along with it were a rice dish that had corn in it and a salad. The meal was excellent, as was the appearance of the piñata Pepe had made for which some contributed $1 to purchase one or more of the 28 chances to pull the right string that would cause it to open and spill its contents. Alas, the 28th string did not do the trick but Pepe turned the piñata upside down and all the candy and Mexican trinkets fell to the floor for those interested to take. All in all $821 was raised for Pepe to pay toward his Youth Exchange Trip to the east coast in June. He thanked everyone for contributing, Deanna and Bill for helping him, his host families, and our Club for sponsoring him. He also went six for six on the Rotary MinutePlus Insurance questions concerning Cinco de Mayo, so no one at the tables had to pay in $1.00 for missing a question. We had good attendance at the meeting and it was well worth attending. Thanks Pepe! |
