These frosty, frigid early days of February “melted” into a warm and cozy atmosphere this noon, as we gathered in person for our first meeting of the month, which happened to be a Hybrid Meeting! People seemed so glad to see each other again, for the first time in a while, and the location couldn’t have been more welcoming! As we enjoyed the rustic hospitality at Brew and Brats, we were able to also be with those members who preferred to join us, via Zoom. Sixteen members gathered in-person, while six members were with us on-line.

President Bruce, whose pleasant face is now wreathed with some prominent whiskers, greeted each of us warmly as we entered the “Side Room” at B and B. The Meeting began as he invited us to stand for The Pledge to our Flag. It was great to hear Jack’s melodious voice once again, as he led us in singing God Bless America. John, our host, gave The Invocation, praying that we may be able to take on the challenges that each day brings, and along with that, the strength to maintain our optimism, as we continue to serve others. The on-line guest was Erika, who presented today’s Program about Happy Tails Animal Shelter. PE John would do the Rotary Moment at Meeting’s End.

At the start of each new month, as is customary, we acknowledge the special dates in that month for some of our members. These members have February Birthdays. They are John F., Bill G., Bruce, Bo, Leah, Steve, and Brenda. Led once again by Jack, we sang a heartfelt round of “Congratulations” to each of these fine folks.

Here are a few announcements that came up during the course of the Meeting. Word from Carrie indicates that we will not be doing the Valentines for Vets. Perhaps we may choose to honor and remember Our Vets at a different point in the year. Tom turned things over to Jo Anne, who told us, (regarding the Grape Fest), that there were a few more applications which have been received this past week. The first Committee Chair Meeting is coming up. Tom will attend these Meetings as the LLC President. Tom added that Jo Anne is doing a great job coordinating everything. (We would expect no less from Jo Anne 😊!) Tom added that a Press Release is forthcoming! “The Awards Committee invites involvement!” exclaimed Tom. Currently, those members on the committee include John F., Bruce, Tom, Karen, and Nancy. There is one opening available on this committee for any member who wishes to be a part of it. Pres. Bruce gave accolades for the “Superheroes” who do so much work “behind the scenes”. He recognized Tom for lining up the Rotary Moment each week, Rose, for garnering a great program each week, and John, who helps with just about everything. Laurie announced that John Edwards would be dropping off 30 Covid Tests at her home this afternoon, should anyone be interested.

For many, they are the constant bright spots in our lives, who offer unequaled companionship and comfort in exchange for food, shelter and affection. We are talking about our furry friends in the form of dogs and cats, who give us unconditional love. “Happy Tails” is a program that offers care, protection and adoption plans for homeless animals. Today we welcomed Erika, who is the Shelter Coordinator for the Ontario County Humane Society. Happy Tails is a not-for-profit organization which was begun in October of 1989. Public events help to raise money in many ways. The goal of its compassionate and caring workers and volunteers is to better the lives of animals and hopefully, the humans with whom they are placed. Their goal is to improve conditions for these innocent animals who sometimes have withstood abuse, cruelty, and neglect. Happy Tails, we were told, partners with the Ontario County Jail whose inmates help to care for the pets, as part of their rehabilitation. HT has also been able to care for “special needs” pets, who have been able to be placed in loving homes. “Happy Tails has been making happy families!” exclaimed Erika. “We are looking forward to continuing compassionate care!”

As many of us are pet owners and/or lovers, a variety of questions and comments followed Erika’s program. We learned that since Betty White’s passing, there has been an increase in donations. Erika advised us that bringing home a new pet requires preparedness! One needs to be ready to deal with the needs, both behavioral and medical, of their new furry family member. Tom shared a cute story of how the Shelter rescued his Milo, after having read his chip. Chipping, if kept up to date, is the fastest way to get your pet home we were told. Surprisingly, there wasn’t as big an increase in pet adoptions as one would think since the onset of Covid. Erika did impart a sweet story of two cats who came to the shelter in pretty rough shape. After a year and a half, the “brother” and “sister” went home together both with improved health! They now happily share a home!

Many Happy Bills were offered today because we enjoyed the Program, but moreover, we were so glad to be with each other once again in person! The set-up at Brew and Brats was perfect for our gathering, and we were able to see the members who were on-line as well! Visibility and acoustics were very good also. John and Sherry were glad to be back home from their vacation, along with Katie, in St. Thomas. Pres. Bruce appreciated being able to spend precious time with a friend.

John did the Rotary Moment for today. Although he was vacationing in a part of the world slightly warmer than here, he still had Rotary on his mind! He was reflecting on his upcoming year as Club President, and the fact that his PETS Training will be starting. He thought about ClubRunner, as well as the District 7120 Training Assembly which will be at Honeoye Central on April 9^th. Rotary always provides connections in so many ways!

Our Hybrid Meetings will continue, as next week, we will again meet at Brew and Brats for the Evening Meeting. We are welcome to come around 5:30 to enjoy fellowship and “refreshments” before the actual Meeting which will begin at 6:00. This coming weekend is the Vintage, Vines, and Valentines Event in town, (and Super Bowl Sunday, as well!) No doubt, many of us will probably see each other then! Take care, all! See you soon!