“It’s great to see you all!” commented President Matt in his opening remarks this past Monday night, as we enjoyed gathering for the first Evening Meeting of the New Year! I might also add that it was so nice to see some of our “day workers” on board, as well! As part of “the mix”, they helped to bring our total to 23 members. We also welcomed guests, Honorary Member, Katie, Sharon, Cindy Scoda, who has been with us recently for Zoom Meetings, and Susan Dominick. Tonight’s guest speaker, Bruce M., held The Flag in position, as we said The Pledge. Susan gave The Blessing, praising The Lord for the thanksgiving in our hearts, and for His leading us and guiding us over the years.

Pres. Matt had a few updates. He welcomed our guests, and he added that if someone is interested in becoming a member, Mike Joseph is the one who coordinates this. “We are always thrilled to get new members!” noted Matt. There was a reminder from Susan that dues are due. Concerning the possibility of holding the Trout Derby this year, we are hoping to be able to set it up safely. Karen, Nancy, Bruce, Micah, and Sherry are interested in helping. Rose has put in a request from the Bristol Valley Theater. “It’s a gem in our community.” Rose noted. We will add this item to our Agenda for next Monday’s Board Meeting.

“Know, Love, Lead,” these words encompass what tonight’s speaker, our own Bruce McLellan is all about! Special people in our lives, such as our parents and grandparents, often seem to have a profound effect on the way we view life, and how we go about our day to day living. This idea seems to be true for Bruce, who fondly remembers his grandfather’s RCA Radio. Perhaps these treasured memories have helped to influence and inspire Bruce, as he talked about “Launching a Podcast” this evening.

Basically, one could call a “podcast” a form of internet radio, and in listening to it, one’s visual images are conjured up! Bruce did just that for us tonight, as he “rehearsed” his podcast, bringing images to mind that could very well align with many of our own experiences. He recalls having breakfast with his great-grandmother, and though the coffee was strong, and the toast was “charred,” nevertheless he said “M-m-m, Grammy, that was good!” More than his sense of taste, his sense of appreciation for someone was greater. He remembers his great-grandmother as being “a jubilant person.”

Bruce’s dad also had a positive impact on his life, as he calls him “his earliest mentor.” He recalls him as being so kind, and that personal quality is so important now. “Rotary values kindness,” said Bruce, and indeed, it is a precious commodity. “If it’s a choice of being right or being kind, choose kind!” In addition to hearing his podcast, we were also treated to a song by Bruce! The melody and the rhythm are important, but the words tell a story! Many thanks to Bruce for presenting such a great program!

As is typical of Pres. Matt, he always rises to the challenge when it comes to generating a discussion! He elicited some excellent feedback with this question: “If you could create a podcast of your own, whom would you interview?” Here are some of the members’ responses. John F. would interview Abraham Lincoln. Tom would interview his dad. Frank would interview his parents. Blanche would interview the Early Settlers. Jodi would interview her son, River. Sherry would interview Bill Vierhile. Jack would interview his classmate, Paul. Skip would interview his great-grandfather. Robin would interview her dad. Alex would interview Elton John. Rose would interview Jesus! (What a story He would have to tell, eh?)

It didn’t seem as though there were any Fines to be recorded this evening, but there were plenty of Happy Bills! We enjoyed Bruce’s Program. Jack spotted a thrush at his feeder. Micah and his wife are adding to their family, expecting a new baby in July! Bruce was using two cameras. We are happy for Micah. John F. “put in a plug” for Milo!

Karen had the Rotary Moment tonight. She will be involved with the Toastmasters, a program which focuses on communication skills, for example. She is becoming well-prepared to take on her role as Club President next year, and we wish her well! Also, many thanks to Karen for planning the great programs we’ve had so far!

“Everyone has a story to tell,” we were told, and our Rotary Meeting provided a platform for Bruce to share his with us. We were reminded to stay safe and to stay healthy, and on that note, here’s wishing everyone a great week! See you on Monday, 1/18, for the Noon (Zoom) Meeting, when we’ll hear from our friend, Renea Rennoldson.