President Craig opened the meeting at 6 PM.  It was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and Prayer.  District Governor Nancy Russell and her husband, visiting Rotarians Brownie (Florida) and Dick May of Pinehurst, NC. 

 

A standing ovation was held for Jim Weidman who so successfully held the Lobster/Steak Extravaganza last week at Balmoral that was enjoyed by many Rotarians and their families and guests.

Gary reported on two incoming Exchange Students, Isabel and Ann, who have already successfully integrated themselves into school life at Inter-lakes.  Dean thanked Heidi, Rick and Wendy for their assistance and commitment.

Ginny asked for volunteers to be part of a work party to support fellow Rotarian Randy Hylek on Wednesday, September 4 at 5 PM.  Randy has been dealing with multiple medical problems recently!

Jim Murray asked that ‘after dinner committee meetings’ be scheduled with him in advance.  He would like us to use a separate location.

Craig announced that Donna and fellow Rotarians will be sponsoring a BBQ on Saturday, October 19 at the Veterans Hospital in Boscawen for approximately seventy (70).  This will be a lunchtime event.  Volunteers will be need on site at 10:30 AM.  Contact Donna if you can help.

Rob reported on the Casino.  All table sponsorships are spoken for!.  Two of three live auction items have been secured.  All Rotarians are urged to solicit advertising for the brochure.  Face-to-face contacts reap the best results!  If you call prospects and they show interest, follow-up with a visit as soon as possible!

 

Brownie is off to Florida early this year!..  Erin almost had Wellington State Park Beach all to herself while on vacation..  Fred showed his pride for THIS exceptional club…  Gary for his wonderful Student Exchange Committee, for Jim Weidman’s hospitality, and LRGH…  Wayne Russell as a tribute to Gary…  Carl for his tie dyed shirt (serious, I forget what it was for) but most notably a GIFT CARD for Jim Weidman to Frog Rock in gratitude for Lobster/Steak at Balmoral…  Dick May for “this great bunch of Rotarians”… Ginny for a calm water paddle on the “Big Lake”.

 

District Governor Nancy Russell took the opportunity of this visit to honor Art and Del as extraordinary, selfless examples of “Service above Self!.  She noted their countless years of service here, across our nation and around the world;  their unselfish giving to the Rotary Foundation exceeding $10,000; their leadership in fighting polio; their international visitations and attendance at overseas Rotary International Conferences; their inexhaustible enthusiasm, dedication and ethic.  This was followed by a lengthy standing ovation!  Art acknowledged the many accomplishments of his Meredith club.

 

Nancy continued with her presentation noting upcoming Rotary Institutes, the District Conference in May in Portland and the International Conference in Honolulu.  Looking ahead two years, she urged that we identify ONE new service project; expand our reach involving NEW members; enhance what we do by “Telling our Rotary Story” and by stepping out of our comfort zone with new ideas and change.  When looking to help others she urged self-respect by asking THEM what they need!  We have the people, the experience and the potential to make great things happen.  Rotary brings HOPE!