Co-President Laura Young rang us in, and Anna Klein-Christie led us in the Pledge. Charlie Frair stepped up to deliver the opening invocation sharing that he has a fun new gig this summer: lecturing on cruise ships about the American Revolutionary War. He noted that today, June 12th, marks one of the most important yet least-celebrated milestones leading up to American independence. In 1776, the colony of Virginia adopted the Virginia Declaration of Rights, primarily penned by George Mason. 22 days later, the Declaration of Independence was signed—Thomas Jefferson borrowed heavily from Mason’s work when drafting it. With the nation's 250th anniversary on the horizon, it was the perfect historical note for the day.

 

WELCOMES: We welcomed a wonderful crew of guests and celebrated several major life milestones. Co-President Laura kicked things off by introducing her parents, (photo) in town celebrating their 60th reunion at Bates College this weekend. Laura is also hitting a new decade tomorrow (Happy Birthday tonight!), and her husband just wrapped up his very last day of teaching and is heading into retirement—and a surprise party! Guests of Bill Blount, Jim Willey, and Katharine Nagle were also welcomed. 

 

USM PROMISE SCHOLAR:  Roxanne Cole introduced longtime friend of the club and USM President/CEO Corey Hascall, who shared an update on the USM Promise Scholars Program and introduced our student guest. Founded in 2017, the program fully funds college degrees for first-generation USM students while providing academic, professional, social, and financial support. Corey reported that the initiative has raised $21.5 million toward its $25 million endowment goal. Promise Scholars achieved a 92% retention rate—the highest at USM—graduating in four years at unprecedented levels. We also heard from Grace, a rising sophomore studying Computer Science focusing on machine learning and AI engineering. Grace explained how the scholarship changed his trajectory by removing major financial barriers allowing him to concentrate on research and innovation. His work includes developing predictive software that could aid cancer and Alzheimer’s research. He shared his interest in addressing rural “food deserts,” reflecting his commitment to using technology to solve community challenges. The presentation highlighted the life-changing impact of educational opportunity and the remarkable achievements of the students it supports.

 

FLAGS FOR HEROES: The 10-Day Countdown is ON! Charlie Frair took the mic to deliver an urgent, passionate update on the Flags for Heroes project. Because everything is scheduled much earlier this year, we only have 10 days left to secure sponsors. Currently, only 12 Rotarians have signed up. Charlie reminded us that the $100 sponsorship doesn't just honor a hero in your life—it is our club's primary fundraiser to fund local scholarships, food banks, and international service work.

Action Item: Go to FlagsForHeroesMaine.com today or this weekend to sponsor 1 to 5 heroes so the committee can finalize the plaques.

Sea Dogs Game: We still need volunteers for the on-field flag ceremony before the Portland Sea Dogs baseball game on July 5th. Game tickets can also be purchased directly on the website.

 

DUES: Our indispensable Treasurer Dick Hall  (photo) gave a swift dues update: 59 paid, 42 unpaid. To spare anyone from public embarrassment, he skipped the "stand up if you paid" exercise, but the message was clear—get your checks in before you leave! This marks his final month as Treasurer after years of dedicated service. Thank you for keeping our books balanced!

 

FOUNDATION CIRCLES: It's as exciting as the NBA Draft! At our next club meeting,  Foundation Chair Jerry Wall will draw the winning recipients from 3 of our "Circle of Five" groups, to receive a Paul Harris Fellow Award that they have earned through their individual contributions. Join us on June 26 when we see who "wins" this round! 

 

END RUN: Finally, the club shared a bittersweet moment as it was revealed this was Laura’s last meeting as Co-President. Bowen presented her with a bouquet of flowers, thanking her for stepping up to the plate without a moment's hesitation. Laura thanked the club and her co-president, noting what an honor and pleasure it has been to serve.

Portland Rotary recently welcomed Emily Davis, Director of Recovery Friendly Workplace (RFW) Maine, for a thoughtful and personal presentation about recovery, workplace culture, and the role employers can play in supporting their employees. Emily was introduced by Niki Merrill

 

Emily shared her own recovery journey, noting that June marked five years since her last drink or drug use. She was candid about how recovery has allowed her to be a better employee, friend, and family member, while highlighting the importance of the support systems that helped make that possible.

Recovery Friendly Workplace is a statewide program that provides free education, training, and resources to employers. Originally launched in New Hampshire in 2018, the program came to Maine in 2023 and has already grown to include approximately 90 businesses across all 16 counties.

 

A key message of Emily's presentation was that recovery does not happen in isolation. Because most adults spend a large portion of their lives at work, the workplace can play a significant role in helping people succeed in recovery or encouraging them to seek help when needed. Employment provides structure, confidence, and connection—important ingredients in long-term recovery.

 

Emily noted that substance use disorders affect workplaces whether employers realize it or not. Rather than asking businesses to become counselors or treatment providers, RFW helps create environments where employees feel comfortable seeking help and accessing resources without fear of stigma. The program offers training, consultation, resource information, policy guidance, and ongoing support.

 

One phrase Emily emphasized was, “The opposite of addiction is connection.” She explained that simple conversations can help break down misconceptions about addiction and recovery, creating understanding and encouraging people to seek assistance earlier.

 

Employers interested in becoming a Recovery Friendly Workplace begin with a simple letter of interest and a brief orientation. Participating organizations can access training opportunities, workplace resources, and certification recognition. The program also provides tools such as Narcan response kits and direct access to advisors for guidance and support.

 

Emily's presentation was a reminder that recovery is happening every day, and that supportive workplaces can make a meaningful difference in helping people rebuild their lives and continue contributing their talents to their communities. Photo: Niki Merrill and Emily Davis

June 26 - Portland Rotary Year in Review with Bowen Depke

July 3-  No Meeting, Happy 4th of July

July 5-  Portland Sea Dogs, Flags For Heroes Field Presentation

July 10 - Justin Lamontagne, Our New President - Plans For The Year

July 17-  Road Trip, Lunch at Hadlock Field

July 24- Matthew Saxton, Shelter Box

July 30 - Club Social

July 31- No Meeting