The lengthening shadows that were cast on the hillsides by the late afternoon sun, set the tone for the wonderful Evening Meeting we had this past Monday night. President Matt’s warm welcome “It’s great to see everyone!” set the tone for what would turn out to be a very pleasant hour. We joined Matt in saying The Pledge, followed by Judy, who gave The Invocation. “Dear Heavenly Father,” began Judy. “Thank you for our members. Help us to enjoy doing good, and to enjoy helping others.” There were 28 members in attendance and we welcomed guests, Sharon Fredericks and Rick Constantino. Tonight’s Program was given by Rick. The Rotary Moment was provided by Tom.
For starters, there were several updates and memos to be shared with the Membership, since it had been a very busy weekend! Susan says that Reggie is foraging for food, and he is doing very well with his lessons! Pres. Matt took part in the Commencement Ceremony at St. John Fisher College this past weekend (more to come). He said that Bruce had “pulled out all his tricks,” covering the Great Grape Derby last Saturday on Facebook Live. Rose mentioned that there will be a concert at BVT at 2:00 on May 22nd. Ushers are needed!
Marty and Jill thanked everyone, who had helped at the Great Grape Race. The Naples Creek was flowing, and the Derby was very successful! They noted that we earned about $1600! Almost all the 800 tickets were sold, and so many, many “grapes” were dumped into the Creek! Evidently, the “winning grape”, #169, was an “orphan” grape that had been returned unsold! In second place was a ticket sold by Bill Grove to his draft person. Another winner donated the winnings back to the Club! Kudos were given to Laurie, Nancy and Judy for their tabulation. The spheres ended up at the Big Digger. About 30 people were on hand to watch the Race. Many thanks were given to Skip, who for many years had been heavily involved with the Lucky Ducky Derby, and whose tradition was maintained in an innovative way this year. Also, thanks were given to Jill, Jodi, Vicky, John, Sherry and Jack for their help. (If I’ve forgotten to mention others who helped, I apologize! I was trying to “catch” all the names Marty was giving at the meeting!) Kudos were also given to Sue Dominick, who bought new “waders” so that she could plunge right in and help!
A little further to the south, on Saturday, delectable aromas wafted from the Grove Boys’ grills, as a simultaneous event, - their famous Chicken Barbecue, was reeling in passersby! Spearheaded by Liz, her crew of Clyde, Bill S., Jack, Holly, Rose, Betsy, Cindy, Bo and Pat helped to serve the delicious chicken dinner in a “drive through” fashion. “The weather wasn’t working for us, but many members and neighbors came!” exclaimed Liz. All but four meals were sold! About $764 was made! It really worked out well to have both events take place on the same day. Fortunately, the raindrops held back until the very end! Maybe that unseasonably cool weather perked people’s appetites! Even Milo came through the line three times, driven by “his human!”
Jack gave an update on the proposed Watershed Clean-Up, which will take place this coming Saturday, May 15th. Eight Rotarians have signed up to help so far. Jack has asked that everyone meet at 25 Reed Street (the Fredericks’ home) at 9:00 AM. You can bring spears or grabbers if you wish, but bags will be provided. Be sure to bring gloves and dress appropriately for this kind of task! (Jack assured us that this is not going to be a “yard clean-up!”)
The 2021 District Conference was held virtually this year last Friday and Saturday. John F. was able to “attend” the Conference, and he talked a little bit about the event. Friday was the Business Meeting and Trivia Contest. Saturday Morning, the “Wrap-Up” and Memorial Service took place. Naples Rotarians who were remembered were Walt Z. and Marian C. John said that The Conference will be “live” in 2022! The District Change-Over Dinner will be July 1st. Skip added that Naples Rotary Change-Over Dinner will be held at Brew and Brats on June 28th. It will be catered like in the past, and this too shall be “live!” It was great to hear/see messages from the French Household, as everyone was bedecked in Hawaiian shirts, looking very stylish, indeed!
Last week, we enjoyed hearing about a local Finger Lakes business, FLX Denim. This week, we had the pleasure of learning about another local business, FLX Music Supply! Rick Costantino, who was tonight’s Program Presenter, was born into a musical family. His mom was a singer, and he himself, was introduced to the drums at a very early age. Having received his schooling in Victor, he received his Associates Degree at FLCC. He has performed on and off the stage since his teen years, and he has been an instrumental part of the Bands known as “French Hill Funk” and “Hayley and the Jets.” With this rich musical background, it is easy to see why Rick has been successful in setting up his store, FLX Music Supply, here in Naples! He had previously been affiliated with the Music Store in Wayland. Having decided to make some changes, he had set up a “Pop Up Shop” at BVT. Eventually, he became the owner of his own Music Supply Store right on Main Street in Naples! He deals with sales, rentals, and services, focusing on piano, stringed instruments, drums, percussion and woodwind. He also offers lessons! Jack noted that FLX Music Supply is a great store with quality equipment. Rick would be interested in doing an “Open Mic” sometime at Brew and Brats as well! After entertaining some questions at the conclusion of his talk, we learned that Rick’s most cherished instrument is his wife’s grandfather’s saxophone! He also told us that the acoustic guitar helps to vent his emotions. Rick said that he appreciates Naples, and that he loves when folks stop in. Many thanks to Rick! We appreciate having this new business in our community, and we wish him well!
There were many reasons for us to be happy tonight, since the Happy Bills were a-plenty! We enjoyed Rick’s Program, and we welcome this new business into our community. We are grateful to Marty, Jill and all their helpers for a successful Grape Derby. We thank Liz, and her team of helpers, along with the Grove Boys for a great Chicken BBQ. John appreciated the “plugs” for Brew and Brats. The “Gang” at the French Maison was enjoying Hawaiian pizza to go along with their Hawaiian shirts! Bruce did a Podcast featuring Tom and his book. Matt enjoyed treats from our baker, Katie. Matt also paid a Fine for not having been present on Saturday for the GGR and the CBBQ. He was at Commencement at St. John Fisher. This leads to a unanimous appreciation of Pres. Matt from the Membership, as Matt received his Doctorate on Saturday at SJF. Congratulations, Dr. Matthew Thomas Frahm!!
Tom had two extraordinary Rotary Moments this evening. “A lot happened this weekend!” exclaimed Tom. Naples Rotary had entered the competition for the Club District Award at the District Conference. Tom’s video of the Walk of Life rendered Naples Rotary 2nd Place out of a total of 66 clubs!! Rock on, Naples Rotary!!
The second part of Tom’s Rotary Moment, of course, focused on Matt, who received his Doctorate on Saturday. Tom has sent us a link, so that we will be able to view Matt’s video in its entirety. The link is https://vimeo.com/547752739, and Tom has also sent us a copy of Matt’s Commencement Speech. After reading Matt’s inspiring words, it’s clear to see why we are so proud of him! Not only has he accomplished much in the field of Education and Leadership, he has also led the Naples Rotary Club with skill, strength, and positivity throughout a most challenging, unprecedented year! Tom summed it up perfectly. “It has been an absolutely wonderful year!”
