Rotary minutes 9/23
President Bob Guerette tapped the brass bell at 7:15 bringing the gathered Rotarians together. After the pledge to the American flag Rotarian Bob Beaumont offered the morning prayer.
Happy /Sad dollars…. Joel Merry gave a dollar celebrating the kayak paddle he had at his camp over a beautiful weekend. Bob Davis welcomed the speakers (more later) with 2 Washington dollars. Tom Connelie gave a dollar to welcome a new puppy into their home. Rotarian Fred Burgess gave a happy dollar celebrating his 22nd wedding anniversary with a trip to Baxter State Park. Presisdent Bob celebrated a trip to Bible Point in Aroostook County, a place President Roosevelt visited in 1878.
The presidential trivia question of the week asked by Gordon: Who was given a $20 speeding ticket ? answer: US Grant, for riding his horse too fast. It was NOT an OUI.
Bob Davis introduced our speakers, Brian Robinson and Anita Ruff of the Oasis Clinic. Anita shared that Oasis is servicing the community providing health, dental and behavioral issues to many in our area not insured. In recent years the clinic moved to new quarters on Baribeau Drive, at the sight of the old Brunswick Hospital. Two dental suites were added providing care for 102 patients last year. The volunteer dentists come from as far away as Bangor. All dental procedures are provided with the exception of dentures.
Oasis Health Clinic provided over a million dollars in care to 357 people last year. Much of that was for prescription assistance. Local medical doctors, nurses, mentl health professionals volunteer their services. There is a population of about 2000 people in our area who fall between the cracks without health and dental services.
Oasis Treasurer noted that much of the budget of $375,000 budget came from individual and corporate contributions. Just retired Oasis Medical Director, Dick Corbin, was recently recognized by the Maine Medical Association for his outstanding volunteer service.
Next week, Ocotber 1, Ron McLaughlin will offer his sporting insights as we ramp up for the World Series.