Wasn't it refreshing to see that sunshine pouring down upon us today, along with the lovely milder temperatures? Twenty-nine members, along with five guests, gathered for a bite of lunch, fellowship, and a great program today. President Tom opened the meeting, as we joined him in reciting The Pledge. Jack led us in singing God Bless America. Steve R. said The Blessing. Steve thanked God for all of the resources that enable us to serve others, the members, and, of course, the sunshine! Laurie introduced today's guests. We were pleased to have Kelly VandeSande, Kasey, Dylan, Hjanne, and Sharon join us. Jack announced all of our February Birthdays. We sang a hearty round of "Congratulations" to the following members: Marianna (3), Suzanne (12), John F. (14), Billy (15), Bo (24), Leah (25), Steve R.(27), Brenda (28), and Deb (28).

Under Communications, here were a few items worth noting. Sherry passed around a Sign-Up Sheet for members to volunteer their help at Vintage, Vines, and Valentines, which will be this weekend on Feb. 8th. There was a reminder from Jack that Marriage Vows will be renewed at 4:00. He will be officiating! Mike passed around a bucket, so that members could help Tom Pawluk, in advance, with the MCP Cancer Fund. Gary also had a sheet available, for solicitations from businesses around the community to help with this year's Trout Derby. Many members who have sought donations in the past have been listed, and they can choose to do the same again, if they wish.

Now, it was time for another "Ray of Sunshine" in our day! Pres. Tom introduced Kelly VandeSande, our Elementary School Nurse, and moderator of the Operation Santa Program for the past four years. Along with Kelly, were three of her "Elves" who helped to make a special Christmas for many in the Naples Community this year. They were Dylan, Kasey, and Hjanne. Operation Santa, a school ministry, which was begun over 70 years ago by School Nurse, Pauline Mckenna, and School Teacher, Pauline Moscato, has continued to brighten the Christmas Holidays for many Naples families over the years. This year, 48 families, and over 120 children were served, along with 56 Seniors. At the start of this year's Operation Santa, 48 student showed up. Kelly wondered if they really understood what this commitment entailed. One of the students summed it up so well..."Mrs. V., we're all here because we're doing a good thing!" That, in itself, pretty much sums up the caliber of many of the students we have here at NCS! They all stayed on.

Dylan, who spoke first,  was reminded of how paper Santas were sold at the Elementary School to help raise money and awareness for Operation Santa, and Kasey admitted that she wasn't sure that she had made the right decision to help with O.S. at first. Then, later on, she realized that she "had made an impact" on others, and that she had made a good decision to help with O.S.!

Deserving recipients are gleaned through applications which are completed by families in the School District. Forty-eight "Elves" this year worked to shop for, wrap, and assemble gifts for so many in our area. Included were food coupons for families, and plants for Seniors. Typically, essentials are purchased for the children, along with surprise gift items that they would enjoy. The students shop at Target, which is very cooperative. Of course, confidentiality is of utmost importance, and the students are fully aware of this. one comment that Kelly made was that she would like to get feedback from the families as to how they enjoyed the gifts.

Many thanks to Kelly for her leadership in the O. S. Program, the students for their dedicated help, Jack and Sharon for being the "distribution coordinators", and the fellow members who made deliveries. Together, we served, and we made a difference!

It was time for Fines and Happy Bills combined! Robin, Brenda, Steve, Nardine, Bruce, Mike, and Tom had missed meetings. John and Bo didn't have their badges. Bill S. made out well at a Super Bowl Football Pool! Jack enjoyed Hjanne's cookies! We all thoroughly enjoyed today's program!

Fifty-Fifty: The Kitty was at $58.00. Karen's ticket, #554, was drawn. Karen drew the Queen of Spades. Win-Win: Skip came up with this one. Who started Operation Santa? It was Pauline McKenna, and it was over 70 years ago! Rotary Moment: Jack had a recent picture of their Exchange Student , Nicole, and her beautiful family. They will be visiting the States soon! Robin asked us to pray for her friend, Dick, who recently passed. He was from a Palmyra church, and was also a Rotarian.

Hjanne was with us today, as mentioned earlier, and she had brought her cookie orders with her. She will be baking more for this weekend! More orders were taken for these delicious Belgian treats! She will put the money she earns for her Senior Trip to Boston. Frank said he was born and raised there, so he would be the perfect tour guide, eh? Matt also noted that applications for Naples Graduates of Distinction are being accepted.

Chocolate Cake Bakers, get your recipes out! The Chocolate Cake Contest is a new addition to VVV this year! It's going to be a sweet weekend! See you then!