CASH IS KING

Posted by Sr. Thomas Sawyer 
 
Foundation Rep and Past District Governor, Edward King was the guest speaker of today's program chair, Tom Sawyer. King praised the club for both its commitment to raising funds for the Foundation, as well as actually participating in many of the programs supported by Foundation Funds. Tom pointed out that since the club was founded we have donated $69,930 dollars to the Foundation. Over the years, 53 club members have become Paul Harris Fellows, some have become multi-Paul Harris Fellows and many more are sustaining Paul Harris Fellows. At the end of the luncheon two members were presented Paul Harris Awards. Past President Michael DiCicco was presented an honorary Paul Harris Award in recognition of his outstanding efforts and accomplishments during his year as president. Unfortunately, Paul Yanovitch was not in attendance to receive his PH Award.
Vera Cassinelli was presented a Paul Harris pin with 4 sapphires as well as a Paul Harris pin with 5 sapphires in recognition of her endless support for the Rotary Foundation. Following a "brief explanation" about how a member can become a Paul Harris Fellow, Rotarian Robert Bonnell Sr, reached under the table and plopped $500 in 5 stacks of $1 bills on the table and said " is this how you become an instant PH Fellow"? Yes-that is a great way to become a PHF. It may be the first time a club member has become a PHF with $500 one dollar bills, but it sure works and works like instant pudding. We will add 500 points to Rob's stash of cash and the award will be on its way to Rob in no time. And the best news - it's all part of Rotary's united effort to build world peace. It can start in many ways. Rob's willingness to share his "wonderful winnings" from the Chambers Auction Raffle will go a long way to help someone, somewhere. Thanks Rob. I am sure you shocked Ed KING and gave him a story to tell for years to come. Days like this cause legends to be born and grow and grow and grow. And a special "thank you" to the Rotarian that slipped me a check after the meeting, adding to his existing Paul Harris Award total. I think we will use that to boost matching funds from the Bill Gates Polio Plus Challenge. Thanks everyone- it truly was a fun day.