President Thor Homme called the meeting to order at noon. Tara Moenning gave the invocation, Dave Evans led us in song and pledge, and Phil Moenning presided over the introduction of many guests and visiting Rotarians. Scott Thompson shared a Christmas story.

Announcements

• President Thor asked Rotarians to to show their gratitude for the Rodeway Inn staff when the tip jar comes around.
• There will be no meeting on Dec. 29.
• Scott Thompson will lead the Jan. 5 meeting, as Thor will be out of town.
• Roger and Verlene Thorp’s anniversary open house begins at 2 p.m. today.
• Bob Brunson is back in the hospital and hoping to be back home soon.

• Sue Fereday was surprised and happy that her daughter-in-law is pregnant.
• Randy Skeie was happy that his daughter Lori and wife Verjean were joining us today.
• Jack Overly was happy to share the news that Mary’s tests came back “all clear.”
• Pete Sumey was happy for Mary Overly and for Sue Fereday.
• Jack Dinsmoor was happy to return to the club he joined 23 years ago and pledged to bring John Sypher back as well.
• Visiting Rotarian Richard Kimple was happy that his Ellinwood, Kansas Rotary Club exceeded its fundraising goal for a splash pad project, with thanks to our club members for donations.
• Wayne Newsom said he was happy for Rob Ludlum, who always contributes to Happy Money.
• Trudy Collar said she has taken a work leave of absence until April, and her first order of business will be to help her daughter settle into a new job in Australia.
• Anne Slack was happy for the Salvation Army Bell Ringers and asked for volunteers to help her husband Gordon fill out his duty roster.
• Thor Homme was happy to see Pete and Lois enjoying the celebration. 

Program

Brad Rosenbaum introduced his guest and one of today’s musical entertainers, Will Thomas. Will played several pieces on mandolin. Pete Sumey and Dave Evans then led carols, accompanied on keyboard by guest Tim McLemore. Pete and Dave added three new tongue-twisting verses to “Deck the Halls,” courtesy of Pogo the Possum. They also sang while club members passed the poinsettias around each table until winners were determined.

Adjournment

Thor thanked Karol Rinehart for facilitating the party, the Sinnotts for the poinsettias and the Overlys for the roses. Thor ended the meeting with The Four-Way Test and Christmas wishes.

Submitted by Rita DuChateau, scribe