President Betsy led the Pledge.  Richard led us in prayer noting those who have passed and those who are recovering 

 

Guests:  Phil Polmemus; Donna Beck; Bruce, Scott, Craig and Brian Sanderson; Brownie, Steve and Janna Moiberg

 

Announcements:  The Board of Directors has voted to approve, subject to a vote of the membership, a donation of $20,000 to the Friends of Meredith Park and Recreation in support of efforts to renovate the Skate Park; making it more permanent (concrete) and low maintenance.  Peter Thorndike, Chair of that campaign, reported that they have raised close to $100,000.  Total cost will be around $236,000.

 

President Betsy announced that our next meeting will be the annual Youth Exchange Buffet.

 

New Member:  Harry Reichlen was sworn in by Membership Chair Fred to the welcoming applause of all members present.

 

Happy Dollars:  Betsy welcomed Jimmy Wallace; Ted announced that his firm, Meredith Insurance will be moving to the new building at Lake Street and Route 3 in August; Donna welcomed Jimmy and spoke of her river cruise in Europe; Mike acknowledged the efforts of Peter Brothers in making the Pavilion a reality; John Moulton noted a wonderful wedding celebration of locals at the farm; Carl put $$$ on Inter-Lakes Track and Field finishing second in the State Division II Championship through the effort of four girls!  Bonnie welcomed our new member; Dean enjoyed his recent vacation; Jim McFarlin wanted to welcome Jimmy back but forgot his name!!!! Enough!

 

Program:  Mike introduced the Chairpersons of the very first Rotary Fishing Derby (40 yrs. ago):  John Sherman and Bruce Sanderson.  The club’s initial goal was to “break even”.  The winning fish was worth $5,000!  John and Bruce, youngsters at the time, chaired the event three years running; gained at the time important sponsorship of Pepsi which covered all the costs.  Selling tickets ‘from a tent on the ice’ greatly lacked the comforts we have today.  The Derby grew big and it grew fast…  topping out at 8,700 sold one year.  Fish and Game contributed significantly to the Derby’s growth and success.  John and Bruce reminded some of us of when tagged rainbow trout were released in anticipation of the Derby and the big prize ($100,000) was to catch specific numbered fish.  That number, drawn earlier, was as secure as if it were locked in the MVSB vault or was it?

Bruce and John noted the hard work of hundreds of Rotarians (Shifts were not hours long but weekend long!)  over the years, and in particular, the effort of Rotarian wives and beginning in the early 80’s female members!  That acknowledgement was followed by tumultuous applause!  Also, fondly remembered were the contributions of Charles George, Joe Cerutti, Ken Boucher and others. 

 

Note:  This evening’s program was video taped for posterity!    It was much appreciated by all present.