With the start of school “just around the corner”, what better timing for our returning friends, Sebastian and Judy, to “come” and talk to us about Building Minds in South Sudan! We’ll talk about their inspiring program a little bit later. We met virtually today, and fellow member, Judy, started us off, by leading us in saying The Pledge. Andy shared wise words with us in his Blessing, as he humbly asked Our Loving, Heavenly Father to help us conduct our work with enthusiasm. We welcomed guests, Sebastian, Judy, Sharon and Rose to today’s Zoom Meeting. In addition to these fine folks, 26 Members were online as well. Today’s Program was about Building Minds In South Sudan.

“Welcome, Rose!” said Pres. Matt, and then he began to talk about the main segment of today’s Board Meeting. There was an in-depth discussion about having In Person Meetings. After having had our first in person meeting last week since March, though it was wonderful to be all together, there were many concerns expressed by The Board Members, which included health and safety guidelines. The recommendation was that we continue to meet in person, but we shall do some things differently. We shall take extra responsibility when we meet on 8/24. When you arrive, you will be “greeted” by Tom at the First Station. Next, the Second Station will be handled by Nancy, who will do the routine health check, which will be done verbally. The Third Station will be covered by Laurie, who will take the checks, (which should already be made out for the exact amount). “Health and safety are our priority!” noted Matt. Brenda asked if there were options, and Bruce M. reassured us that he would continue to do Face Book Live for those who preferred to stay home. Tomorrow, 8/18, some members are going to visit our friends at The Redwood to discuss further health and safety measures.

Patrice gave a summary of the rest of today’s Board Meeting. The High School and the Elementary School will be sending out a school supply list. Currently, there is $155 available to spend on supplies, but because of Covid 19, more funds are needed. Members may donate vis-à-vis a check, noting “school supplies” in the memo. Donations will be accepted through August 28^th. Next Wednesday, Susan and Jane will shop for H.S. supplies, and after 8/28, Laurie and Pat will shop for additional supplies. Matt kindly offered to cover the discussion about In Person Meetings, as there were many aspects to consider such as cleaning, spacing, masking, minimal contact, and vulnerable population. It was decided that we will meet in person from now on, but many modifications will be implemented. In terms of the bench dedication for Al Mann, since Jack was unable to be at the Board Meeting, we will check with him about a date for this event. Walk of Life Donation (Foundation): John F. is President of the Foundation Board and will send out an E-mail to its Board in terms of making a decision to add funds from the Foundation to the WoL result. Regarding the Treasurer’s Position, there are currently two persons who are interested in filling this role. There was a conversation about Fundraising. Two generous donations have helped to “close the gap” considerably. It was decided that a committee will be formed to come up with additional ideas for raising funds. John will put this idea before the club. Tom will talk to Liz as well, seeing as how she expressed an interest in becoming more involved. The Membership Application of Rose Hogan has been received and approved by the Board. It will now be shared with the club so that any objections may be considered before inducting our newest member.

When asked if there were any questions or concerns regarding the board meeting, Marianna wondered if the request for (monetary) help for school supplies could be sent out to the Naples Community. Indeed, that is possible, and checks could be sent directly to Susan. Rose added that it might be a good idea to mention this need on the Naples Face Book Page.

Frank talked a bit about Camp O. A Board/Staff Meeting was held regarding the “Virtual Camp”. There are 35 kids participating, and two are from Naples. Each of the campers has been given a “satchel” that contains 10 activities, which can be carried out online. The activities range from craft to sensory learning, and they all serve to give each of the campers an enjoyable camp experience. Frank happily noted that this year, there were more golfers than ever at the Camp O. Golf Tournament!

“Welcome back, Sebastian and Judy!” exclaimed Pres. Matt, and he noted that they do incredible work in different corners of the world. Although we couldn’t have Sebastian and Judy with us physically today, it was great to welcome back these “Old Friends” virtually!  At the start of his talk, Sebastian “oriented” us by displaying a map of South Sudan. Last year, there were 963 students attending the school they had built, and now there are over 1000. Supplies are in dire need, and it was touching to see a picture of pencils being given to the students (by the Newark Rotary).

Sebastian noted that the students were delighted that they could each have their own pencil to keep. (That sure makes one think, doesn’t it?) Bill Cook, who was a professor at Geneseo, has been very influential in the enhancement of education for these young people of South Sudan, so much that the new high school is going to be known as the Bill Cook High School.

In the past, education for girls and women has not been a priority in this region, but now, the tables are beginning to turn, as new possibilities and opportunities are opening up for young women. In being given this chance to improve their status, Sebastian said, “From now on, it is up to you!”

Our club, if you will remember, donated benches to the students so they wouldn’t have to sit on the floor. That being said, Judy called us “a small club with a big heart”! As one would expect, Covid 19 has had an impact on their plans to go forward, but Sebastian hopes that things will improve by next year. We’ll put them on our calendar for next year for sure! Matt also reassured Sebastian and Judy that “our check is in the mail”! Thank you, Sebastian and Judy, it’s always great to catch up with you, and to see the progress you’ve made in improving the lives of your youth!

The Happy Bills were abundant today, as many members appreciated having Sebastian and Judy back with us! The Golfers were pleased with last Friday’s Tournament for Camp O. We’re pleased for Jodi and Mark with the opening of Caruso’s café! Blanche was pleased that there is a lovely display on one wall depicting moments from Naples History! Frank is delighted with the Virtual Camp O. Experience, and the golf. His family was visiting also. Jack and Sharon are taking a trip to the Mohawk Valley, and will visit Sharon’s Mom. Alex’s granddaughter has a birthday coming up, as does Tom. Skip and Judy are pleased with the progress of the Calendars, and Sherry added that even if people don’t wish to add their own dates, we should try to convince them to buy a calendar! Matt added a Fine for “bowing out” of golf, but, Matt, we certainly understand what a busy time this is for you! John F. was pleased about our having two teams to send to the Tourney! Holly and Tony enjoyed being on one of those teams! Nancy was looking forward to her “Rotary Moment”!

Now it was time for Nancy’s Rotary Moment, and though we couldn’t see her, we could imagine in our minds, how she must have looked!! Back in 1997, Nancy worked at the bank next to the Hotel. Since it was near Halloween, she showed up at the Rotary Meeting dressed as a big red tomato! Walt Z. thought that it seemed appropriate that folks should pay a Fine if they didn’t have a costume! (Nancy contested that it was “tough” for Doc Abraham to pay a Fine!!)