“Hello, and welcome!” spoke President Tom, as he opened today’s Noontime Online Meeting. What a delight it was to see so many members’ smiling faces, all coming from the comfort and safety of our individual homes. There were 33 of us taking part in today’s Zoom Meeting, and what was so special is that we all could see each other, just as if we were physically in each other’s presence! Thank goodness for today’s modern technology which has helped us to remain “connected”! Thanks too, for Tom’s and John’s expertise in bringing about these last two online meetings, to keep us “together”, and informed!
Tom led us in saying The Pledge, and from his vehicle, perched on a knoll in Penfield, Jack carried us through The National Anthem. Steve gave The Blessing, and he asked The Almighty One to continue to give us the strength and perseverance to carry on our service to others during these challenging times. There were no “human” guests today, however, Tom’s pup, Milo, and Laurie’s pups, James and Jackie, were close by! Today’s program featured Andy, who talked about the “Rotary Responders”.
In terms of “What’s Happening”, Tom explained that the Calendar of Events will be looking somewhat different these days, because of the changes brought about by Covid 19. Next week, Matt will be the guest speaker, and he will talk about what’s happening at the District Level. John F. gave a brief tutorial, “How to Wave 101” to let us know how to signal when we wish to speak or respond during the meeting.
“Rotary Connects the Community!” said Andy, as he prepared to give an update on the progress of the Rotary Responders, thus far. At our last meeting, on 3/16/2020, there was concern expressed regarding the needs of some folks in the Naples Community during this critical time. Based on these concerns, expressed mainly by Andy and Marianna, a committee was formed to address those needs. Later that week, a group of members, (Marianna, Andy, Steve, Laurie, Bo, and Pat), met at Steve’s Apartments to discuss how we, as an organization, could help meet those needs. Steve came up with the name, Rotary Responders.
Marianna and Andy met with Mayor Schenk and other officials to discuss the parameters of Rotary Responders’ offer of help. The boundary, (of service), is within the NCS District, and there have been four areas of division established. Strategies for food shopping and delivery were discussed. Marianna put out a request on FB, and to date there are about 22 volunteers who are willing to help the RR. Jennifer, from Hospeace House, reached out, as well. She published an informational packet that outlines specific facts and guidelines to be followed during this pandemic. Before offering their services, it is important that the volunteers be apprised of the information contained in this publication. (John F. gets the “Cecil B. DeMille Award” for bringing this information to the community, via FB Live, according to Andy!)
Andy went on to explain how the goals of the RR align with the principles outlined in The Four-Way Test. He shared positive feedback from recipients of food delivery. Jack also shared that the Naples Angels have had a few calls for assistance, and that he knows where to reach us if they need more help. Frank pointed out that the number of Meals On Wheels requests may increase at this time, as well. Mandy, from Roots, is supplying soup for the senior shoppers on their appointed shopping days. Frank will check to see if there are other restaurants in the area that would be willing to do this, and he will supply Andy and Marianna with that information. It is so rewarding to help others, especially during this time of great need and uncertainty among many. Andy summed it up well, when in closing, he said, “We’re promoting a sense of internal peace!”
Next, Pres. Tom requested that we state our reasons for donating Happy Bills. He added that this was the perfect time to give “our two cents” worth. Tom also asked that each member’s reasons be listed, as well. Before stating each one’s HB reasons, it is important to note that the following were among the top reasons the Membership donated Happy Bills. They were: 1. Keeping in touch online, 2. the Rotary Responders, 3. Rennoldsons’ Market for their wonderful cooperation with us, and 4. Mike Joseph’s music.
Here, we have each person’s Happy Bills. Frank- RR, and “forgot” his name tag. Marianna- RR. Jack- Cooperation among all and youth involvement (Mahina). Bruce M.- TY to Marianna and Andy, and Mike’s Music. Susan- TY RR and Steve and Mindy. Steve-RR Group and Rennoldsons’. Susan- a nice donation of $ from Warren and Roberta. Tom- a check sent from Leah. Brenda- RR, Andy and Marianna, and son in NYC. John F.- TY RR, A and M, TY to Tom for Zoom, Mike on Open Mic. Sherry- John is home, stop by Brew and Brats for takeout. Nancy- hanging in there. Deb- “Rotary Remote”. Liz and Clyde- keeping safe (self-quarantined), also concern for National Park employees. Skip and Judy- TY to all, “laying low”, and Mike. Robin- Program (RR), and RIP, Jack Samter. Robin wanted to add that there will be a Celebration of Life for Jack at a later date. John M.- Jack S., RR, and harmless wart. Marty and Jill- RR. Bill C.- MM, BD. Steve R.- Be careful! Don’t get complacent! Brenda- Be careful, this too, shall pass. Susan- friend in ICU- This is real, be careful. Karen- wants to be on the RR list. Laurie- This is a reality check, people are scared. Carrie and Bill- RR and Mike’s music. Bo and Pat- RR and keeping a safe distance on the golf course...
Carrie and Bill shared that our Exchange Student, Hjanne, has moved in with her third host family, The Nortons. Her birthday is coming up on April 5th, and we thought it would be nice to send her a card. Her address is Hjanne Houben, c/o the Norton Family, 5545 Jones Way, Canandaigua, New York 14424.
As the meeting drew to a close, the Rotary Moment was given by John French. He said it was “the fine work of the Rotary Responders”. Thanks to everyone for today’s wonderful participation, it was great “seeing” everyone! Stay safe and well, and we will see each other on April 6th, at noon, for our next Online Meeting.
