Heidi convened the meeting precisely at 6:00 pm. She mentioned the speakers and potential new member, Jordan Murray. The Pledge of Allegiance was followed by Heidi reciting a prayer about individuality and the need for a common bond. In the Need-to-Know category, she informed the members that great white sharksavoid for a year any area where killer whales, Orcas, have been.

 

While dinner was being served and enjoyed, Kurt Webber, a former past president of Gilford Rotary (2012-13) spoke about Camp Resilience, on whose board other Rotary past presidents have served. Camp Resilience serves service members, veterans and first responders whose experiences have triggered PTSD, or similar mental ailments. That is the camp’s mission and need. The need is addressed through outdoor activities, such as sailing, and mental health workshops. The also is an equine assistance program. Thereare retreats lasting 3-4 days at no charge to the attendee, but for travel. The actual cost per person is $600. Since 2014 there have been 95 retreats, which include members of the board, volunteers, staff and the Board of Advisors. Peer to peer contact is the most effective treatment. There have been partnerships with VAs. The testimonials have demonstrated the very positive impact on the attendees. A discussion followed and Kevin presented $600 dollars to the camp, in part because of a relative who fought in the battle of the bulge. Rotary presented a $5000 check to Camp Resilience.

 

Heidi made an announcement about the Lakes Region Symphony's upcoming performance at Plymouth State. A unanimous vote increased the expenditure the board could approve to $2000 without having to go to the full membership. Another unanimous vote, with a third to Teresa’s motion by Jim McFarlin, authorized $1500 to the Grange for 20 flags and flag posts. Gary spoke about Interact and the corn maze at Moulton’s. Donations were made to Interact of $2300 by John and $2886 by sponsors. And he mentioned that 2300 pairs of socks have been donated, with 700 by Rotarians.

 

Dan Whitney then spoke about the Spirit Program at the High School. Amanda Downing, the scheduled speaker about Spirit and principal of the high school, could not be there because the girls’ varsity soccer team had won the semifinals and would be playing on Wednesday night. (The team did defeat Pinkerton Academy!) The Spirit program stands for conflict resolution instilling shared values among the students. Speakers address the student body as part of Spirit. Amanda has brought her request to Rotary for $1800 to bring speakers to the school. A motion was unanimously approved to provide the needed $1800. Dan is hoping that Amanda soon could address Rotary about Spirit. Rotary approved a $1800 check for Spirit.

Teresa mentioned the drive through senior dinner on December 4^th, and a signup list was circulated. She also mentioned the need for gift cards. Happy Dollars were offered by several members, including Bob Kennelly for his grandchildren and his 45^th high school reunion. Heidi offered $10 for her new grandson. Gary offered happy dollars for Halloween and the kids. Kevin offered happy dollars for his 2-and-a-half-year-old grandchild, who is speaking and even telling one of Kevin’s stories. Tiffany offered happy dollars for the NH special Olympics. Rick Goodby spoke about the Philadelphia Phillies and Eagles.

 

Dell Clough is in hospice (and unfortunately since has died).

 

The raffle was held, and Heidi led the 4-Way Test. The meeting was adjourned at 7:10 pm.