Renewed, refreshed and rejuvenated, President Bruce was back with us this evening after having spent a well-deserved visit with his family in Maine. He welcomed us warmly to the Meeting this evening, inviting us to join him in saying The Pledge. Jack led us in singing “God Bless America”, and Carrie, who was also our Greeter, gave The Invocation. At this time of the year, when we give thanks for our blessings, Carrie’s words reflected upon gratitude, and how our acts, as Rotarians, can demonstrate this feeling toward one another. Tonight, we welcomed guests, Karin Bowersock, and Morgan Montgomery from Bristol Valley Theater. Along with these two ladies, we also enjoyed having Sharon join us, as she often does. There were 22 Members in attendance, and three of them, Jo, Micah, and Betsy, were with us on Face Book Live. Leandra was also “with” us online. Jo Anne and Albie rounded out the group! Tonight’s Program was, as you might have read, about Bristol Valley Theater and its upcoming Summer Season.
Before hearing about the Summer 2022 Line-Up at BVT, there were some announcements and updates. At the Board Meeting this morning, they talked about reinstating the custom of having “Fireside Chats” to help New Members become aware of “how Rotary works,” and our club will acquire Venmo accounts.
Carrie noted that we will be having an Outbound Exchange Student next year. She is Frazey Neubauer, daughter of Melissa and Karl Neubauer. Like her sister Phoebe, Frazey is looking forward to this experience. Currently, the countries she is considering are Spain, Equador, or Chili.
Rose gave an update on the Light Up Naples Committee. Things are falling into place for the December 11th Celebration. The Snow Globes have been selling well! The Interact Group is going to help also! Rose had a Sign-Up Sheet for any volunteers who would like to bake a dozen cookies for the Scouts to serve at the LUN Event. The cookies can be delivered to Rose’s home, at 10 Cohocton Street, between the 9th and 10th of December.
Jack shared a recent missive from PDG Dave Hannan (retired MD), encouraging members to wear facemasks indoors (when not eating). Considering recent upsurges in Covid 19 in various regions, it’s important to be vigilant. Regular handwashing and use of sanitizers are highly recommended.
Tom, with Jo Anne at his side, spoke of her new role as “Director of Operations” for the Naples Grape Festival. There is going to be transparency in the way the Grape Fest will be operating with its new format. Jo Anne said that she welcomes comments and ideas. “Thanks for all you give!” She added.
Pres. Bruce confirmed that the Win-Win Collection now goes to help the students in various ways.
Skip reminded us of the Christmas Party on December 13th at the Naples Hotel. There will be a Gift Exchange, and The NCS Jazz Band will be providing some musical entertainment!
It’s always a delight to welcome Karin Bowersock back to our Meetings, as she typically lets us know what’s in store for the upcoming Summer Season at BVT. This evening was no different! Pres. Bruce recollected, back in 1990, when he first saw the Bristol Valley Theater, he thought Naples was a “cool town!”
Karin, who is the Executive Artistic Director at BVT, never ceases to build our anticipation when she describes the upcoming Summer Season, and the Summer of 2022 surely sounds exciting! Karin began her presentation by thanking Naples Rotary for all its ongoing support. She described how last season, amid Covid, the BVT navigated through challenging times, and yet still offered an outstanding Summer Selection to the public. Outdoor Performances were the format for the Live Theater last Summer, and though it was a safe approach, Karin doesn’t mind saying “farewell” to the outdoor aspects!
They are going back to the old schedule of having six sequential plays, and they are going to return to a full-sized cast as well! That, of course, will mean that more housing will be needed for the actors and crew. Improved lighting will be an added feature next Summer, which will enhance people’s safety. Play attendees will have to show proof of vaccination, and wear a mask, but they will be able to enjoy live theater from the inside! Subscription prices are going to be discounted in a “Black Friday Deal,” Karin noted. She concluded her talk by giving a brief overview, accompanied by slides, of each of the Summer 2022 Performances, and from her descriptions, it sounds like there is a nice variety planned that is sure to please many a “theater-goer!”
Morgan Montgomery accompanied Karin this evening. She is the Director of Development and Marketing at BVT. Morgan talked about “The Christmas Diaries,” which the BVT will be presenting on December 4th at 7:00. The Performance will feature the “talented teens of BVT.” Morgan wanted to teach the kids the entire process, and that program required five weeks. She hopes to return this coming Summer to BVT to work with the kids. Morgan said there are three ways we can support BVT. We can have a Corporate Sponsorship, we can come to the shows, and we can spread the word! (Jack and Cindy each gave praise to the BVT for a “marvelous job last season!”) We appreciated Karin’s and Morgan’s visit with us this evening, and we’re looking forward to next season. “We hope to see you at the Theater!” chimed in Karin before she left. Indeed, Naples is so fortunate to have the BVT in our community!
Many Happy Bills went into the basket in appreciation of the BVT. Liz and Clyde are headed to Hawaii for a visit! Jo Anne and Albie are closer to becoming Members! Bruce enjoyed being with his family last week. Tom is eagerly anticipating the Grape Fest of 2022. Sherry is pleased that the LUN plans are going well. Jack is thankful for our group. Laurie thanks us all for the support we’ve given her. Judy’s phone rang and Bill S. has missed some Meetings, so they each paid a Fine for those reasons.
Morgan drew the ticket for the Fifty-Fifty. It was #822996, that of Marty. Marty selected the Jack of Clubs from the pack.
Skip had the Win-Win with his question. “What was the original name of the BVT, and what was the year?” The answer was Bristol Valley Playhouse, and the year was 1964! Apparently, his girlfriend was in one of the plays! Jack wondered if Judy was the “stand-in!” 😊
Pat did the Rotary Moment having prepared a little poem about being thankful and hopeful and optimistic throughout the changing seasons.
Speaking of gratitude, here’s hoping that everyone will have a wonderful Thanksgiving, and that we all are able to enjoy time together with our families. See you next week!
