05/29/15 BITS & PIECES
President Kris convened our meeting by welcoming with 52 members and 5 guests in attendance. He welcomed back our snow birds, including Alan Levenson. Peggy Westcott gave our invocation, recognizing those military veterans who served our country and giving homage to our fallen comrades after Memorial Day last weekend. Dave Putnam led us in the pledge and Russ Burleigh played 'God Bless America' in a baritone key.
President Kris called Emily McEntee to conduct our weekly raffle, which was up to $1173. Our speaker drew Nan Heald’s name to try and find the Queen of Hearts from the remaining cards. But alas, Pine Tree Legal could not benefit, as Nan drew the Ace of Hearts.
Guests that were introduced included Past President John Tewhey, previous members Rich Cantz and Claire Owens, along with guests Andee Payne and Megan Devlin.
Janelle LoSciuto took the podium to promote the "Book Box." The Boys and Girls Club will be the beneficiaries of new or gently-used book donations age-appropriate for their primary and secondary school age children. You may bring in books to our meetings and the Club will ensure they arrive at the "Book Box."
Justin LaMontagne was seeking volunteers for quarterly chairs for the Program Committee. While you are considering that also consider contacting Justin if you have suggestions for a good program for our centennial year 2015-2016.
Peter Ingram promoted our Jewell Island cruise on Casco Bay for Thursday evening, July 9, 2015. (There will be no regular club meeting on July 10th.) Bring a friend or three for a fun cruise with light refreshments. A balmy evening and beautiful sunset is guaranteed. See club secretary, Loretta Rowe for your ticket reservations: lrowe@maine.rr.com
Mike Fortunato is seeking needed volunteers for June 1-3, our largest Club fundraiser, the Maine Outdoor Challenge. And don't forget the Lobster Bake on Wednesday, June 3rd, if you have pre-registered....5:00 p.m. at the Am Vets Hall, 148 North Road in Yarmouth.
Ellen Niewoehner announced a new initiative with our long-term involvement at the Long Creek Youth Development Center. We have adopted the Cedar Unit, which constitutes thirteen boys whom we plan to visit for one evening on a monthly basis. Consider participating with us in making a difference in the lives of these young men. You both will benefit from the investment of a few hours of your time.
President Kris asked the irrepressible Jim Willey to come forth and accept the club's donation check to the center of $1000. Jim announced that the contribution would be used to assist repairing musical instruments donated to the Youth Center. Several other musically-gifted altruists donate their talent teaching music to the youths. Jim also told us about the Salvation Army’s "Champion for Kids" event he recently attended where the keynote speaker spoke about the search for extra-terrestrial life. Jim must have said the word "billion" as many times as Carl Sagan did during an episode of his Cosmos show. We love your enthusiasm, Jim!!
Happy Dollars - two members Peter Goffin and Bill Ross were happy for their sons’ graduation from their colleges; John Tewhey was happy to be with us; Jim Willey said, to no one’s surprise, that he is just happy to be here; and Mike Fortunato is happy that this time next week, the Maine Outdoor Challenge will be over.
Dave Putnam introduced principal, Kevin Stilphen , of Portland Arts and Technology High School (PATHS), who introduced our newest recipient of a Youth Service Award, Katie Joseph.
President Kris announced that our Rotary International grant for the 3-H Project (Hearing, Hearts and Hands) in the Dominican Republic has been approved and we are working on another District grant. Your foundation dollars at work.
Amy Chipman, Foundation Chair, came to the podium to announce another Circle of Five ($200/yr Foundation donations), formed by Erik Greven, Erik Jorgensen, Janelle LoSciutto, Rusty Atwood and President-elect Bowen Depke. A drawing was held and Erik Jorgensen’s name was selected to be our newest Paul Harris Fellow from this circle. For more information on how you can become part of a "Circle of Five," contact Amy at: amy.chipman@rbc.com