Rensselaer Rotary 11-04-2014

Hello Rensselaer Rotarians!

 

Nineteen members present today, plus guests Russ Martin and Mike Pruitt. The meeting was chaired by President-Elect Chris Widner, filling in for President John Balvich who is visiting his mother in Florida. Members who had not yet voted were fined $1. Jeff Gastineau provided some optimistic advance information about the upcoming RCHS football game vs. Wheeler.

 

Mindy Beier distributed fliers about the Rotary Run/Walk for Warmth, scheduled for Tuesday, November 18. We will meet at 24/7 that day, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., for lunch, socializing, exercising--all for a good cause. WLQI will be broadcasting onsite to promote the event.

 

The funds we raise will buy new coats for the local children attending the Saint Joseph's College Gallagher Charitable Society Christmas Party on Saturday, Dec. 6, from 9 to noon. On that day, children and their families will receive lunch, Christmas gifts, a bag of nonperishable food items, as well as coats, hats, and gloves for the children. Coats or monetary donations can be dropped off at 24/7 Club Fit, Hillcrest Dental, Fifth Third Bank, Randle and Sammons Law Office.

 

Rotary's goal is to raise $2500. for the event. If each member raises $100., we would more than hit our goal. You can support the event by donating, or collect pledges for money per minute that you walk/run at 24/7. Can you help to get donations from local businesses?

 

Fr./Dr. Bill Stang has been with the Gallagher Charitable Society since its origin in 1977. Its goal from the start was to help local children in need. It was always student-run. Mindy Beier first became involved with it when she was a student at SJC.

 

In recent years, Rick O'Dette, SJC baseball coach and today's guest speaker, together with the baseball team, adopted the Gallagher Charitable Society, thus giving the Christmas event great continuity. Rick has been involved with this event since 1977 and has seen it evolve and continue to expand to serve over 300 people at the annual party, providing a meal, clothing for kids, books, toys, food items, and more. Three baseball players accompanied Rick to our meeting and all love participating in the event. All stressed how it makes them more appreciative of what they have, and their obligation to "give back." Fifty baseball players and about fifty other students organize and implement the event. Bill Stang added a reminder of the gospel account of the "widow's mite." Some of the College's lowest paid employees are the most eager to help and give whatever they can.

 

Next week's topic: Boy Scouts. See you then!

 

Anne-Marie Egan

Secretary, Rotary Club of Rensselaer