Bathed in the glow of soft, muted lighting, encircled by the warmth of friends and family, and savoring delicious cuisine...these were part of the wonderful experience we had at Hollerhorn last night, for our last Evening Meeting of November. Indeed, it almost seemed like a "Pre-Thanksgiving Celebration", as we were also treated to a very special program, compliments of our own Phoebe, who spoke about her recent year abroad.

President Tom extended a warm welcome to the many Members and guests who filled the room, and he asked us to join him, as he led us in saying The Pledge. Patrice gave the Invocation, thanking The Lord for all His Blessings. In addition to the 27 Rotarians in attendance, there were also 21 guests who came to dine with us, and to hear Phoebe tell of her year in Austria. Joining us for dinner were Tom and Margaret Fargnoli, Pepi and Ann Neubauer, Ardie Neubauer, Tony and Holly Dusenbery, Michelle Galindo, Sue Widmer, Jeanne Schenk, Sharon Fredericks, Marie Lopez, Alex Boulton, Marc Kreuser, Nardine Paquin, Scott C., Kathleen Duserick, Lori Maynard, Andy and Marianna Beigel,and of course, Phoebe! Many thanks to Laurie for diligently recording all of our guests, and for announcing our visitors each week! Our many voices sang in unison, as Jack led us in God Bless America. 

Before the special program began, there were a few items to share. Before the Meeting, there had been a Light Up Naples Committee Meeting. As a help to Sherry, Karen "passed the hat", in order to raise some extra funds to help with the lighting at this year's Light Up Naples Event. The generosity of everyone is greatly appreciated!! Sherry and John had the 2020 Rotary Calendars ready this year, before Thanksgiving, as promised! Our orders were distributed to us. Laurie and Patrice talked about the Oratorical Contest. They had met with the High School Juniors in Tom Mannella's class to talk about the Contest, and it appears that we will have some participants. The students will have the month of December to prepare their speeches, and the first Semi-Final Contest will be January 11th here at the Naples H.S. More information on the Oratorical Contest will be forthcoming. Skip had flyers to distribute telling of our Annual Christmas  Celebration. This year it will take place at Hunt Hollow Ski Lodge on December 9th. The cost is $30 per person. 

Marianna and Andy Beigel have been steady visitors at many of our meetings, and last night, we were pleased to welcome them as New Members of Naples Rotary! They have proven themselves, in many ways, to be worthy candidates , and thus, we are delighted to have them join Rotary! Our club continues to grow! We are now over 60 members! Pres. Tom was recently asked, "How does Naples do it?" I think just one visit to a Club Meeting would answer that question!

Then it was time for the "Highlight Of Our Evening", as Phoebe took the podium. Encircled by the beautiful artwork of her talented Mom, Phoebe began by thanking the Naples Rotary for supporting, and "believing in" her. She then proceeded to show many beautiful slides of Austria, and the many places she visited throughout her year of study. It was interesting to hear Phoebe tell of the differences between the schools in Austria as opposed to those in the United States. Phoebe became very close to her host families, and as she talked about them, her emotions swelled. An experience studying abroad not only provides a young person with a greater understanding of the world, but friendships and ties are established that last a lifetime. For Phoebe, this was so true! She said that her (host) families "too k care of her" and that "she felt like a daughter". She was able to enjoy the traditions of each family, as well. Phoebe's acquisition of the German Language impressed us, as she spoke to her Grandfather, Pepi, when he asked her a question! She said that by December, she was "thinking in German". The Naples Rotary can well be proud of this young lady in whom we've invested our support! She truly made a wonderful Ambassador! Phoebe concluded her talk by saying that "Every moment spent was the best moment!" We truly appreciated her spending " a few moments" with us!

The Fines and Happy Bills collected could be grouped into the following areas. These were the reasons for which we felt joy, appreciation, and pride: Phoebe's Program, Our New Members, Karl and Melissa, Carrie and Bill for their involvement in the Youth Exchange Program, The Celebration of Life for Sally and Darryl, Light Up Naples, Our Many Guests, Charlie Grove's successful hunting, the delicious food, and the welcoming atmosphere of Hollerhorn, and finally, for Our Club!

For the Fifty-Fifty, The Kitty was at $205. Tony's ticket, #348, was drawn. Tony picked the Ace of Diamonds. There were a couple of Rotary Moments last night. Phoebe mentioned that she was so grateful that the Club paid for her ski trip, and that she met up with family members, as well. Another Rotary Moment was when the hat had been passed, over $210 had been collected for Light Up Naples!

Hope everyone will have a wonderful Thanksgiving!