What a delight it was to see that sunshine pouring down its invigorating rays upon "Our Valley", albeit a typical, chilly, late November day! Since we'd had a Board Meeting earlier this morning, coffee cups had been filled, and fellowship had already begun. Sherry continued to spread the warmth this noon, as Our Greeter.

President-Elect Karen, standing in for President Liz, who, along with Clyde, is still in Hawaii, welcomed us to this Noon's Meeting. We joined Karen in saying The Pledge. Jack had us try "You're A Grand Old Flag" again this week...this time with much more gusto! We had a little lighter turnout in attendance this week. There were 22 Members today, and our Guests were Nathan Hayes from Cumming Nature Center and our "ever-faithful" Sharon. Today, at Our Program, we would learn more about the Nature Center. Rose gave the Rotary Moment.

PE Karen shared a few important announcements. She read a note from Monica Kastner, from the Naples High School, thanking us for the many backpacks that were delivered this Fall. She called our "Annual Mission" an "Incredible Kindness", as there seemed to be a collection of backpacks to suit every student's taste!

Rose gave a quick update on Light Up Naples. She noted that help is needed both in setting up and tearing down. Explore Naples is going to be spearheading a House Decorating Contest. The Group called "Pickle Mafia" will be performing at BVT on December 16th from 5-7 PM. Two people are needed to man the table in the Lobby.

Jack reminded us that the Community Concert is scheduled for Sunday, December 3rd, at St. Januarius Church, at 2PM. There are going to be some Members from Naples Rotary who will be part of the entertainment!

John noted that on November 21st - November 22nd, there will be a "Food Giveaway" at the Open Cupboard. This outreach is for any family or person(s) who might be in need at this time.

PP John gave a recap from this morning's Board Meeting. "Giving Tuesday" is November 28th. This represents an opportunity for organizations to give to a worthwhile cause. Thus, The Board voted to donate $300 to Miss Julie's School of Beauty. The Naples Rotary has acquired a Storage Unit, located on Tobey Street, to be used to house all of our Rotary Materials. Sherry and Jo have agreed to help get everything organized and inserted into the Storage Unit. The District Conference will be in Saratoga Springs on April 26th - April 28th (2024). Our Christmas Party will be on December 11th at Engine 14. We are in the process of lining up a Caterer. There will be a Gift Exchange again this year, among Members and Guests, and the price limit has been set at $15. We are asked to bring non-perishable food items for the Open Cupboard.

Today's Program, as mentioned earlier, was given by Nathan Hayes. Nathan, who has a Degree in Natural Resource Management from West Virginia University, is the Director of the RMSC Cumming Nature Center, and he overlooks the operations of CNC. 

Cumming Nature Center has always been a delightful place to visit for Naples Area Residents and Visitors, not only because it offers a picturesque "retreat", but it helps to revive those who come, by putting them in touch with the beautiful natural surroundings of our unique, exquisite area. Nathan proceeded to tell us about all the wonderful things that are happening these days at CNC.

Tucked back in the woods, the proposed "Treehouse Village" is the newest undertaking at CNC. Based on the pictures that Nathan showed us, this proposed "Aerial Structure" seems to encompass the perfect "Nature Encounter" for all ages, and it is sure to provide a unique experience for those who will partake of it!

Cummings Nature Center has provided a variety of Programs that have been geared towards learning styles of all kinds. Annual Events such as "Maple Sugar Weekends", Fermentation Fest, Orchestra in the Pines, Bio Blitz, and Wild Walks have served to inspire many!

During the Pandemic, between 60 to 80 kids were served, and "Outdoor Education" was opened on-line! Kids developed a newfound love of the backyard! Outdoor Education plays a big part in children's development, and Programs such as The Walden Project have proven to be very beneficial in helping kids with unique learning styles to grow and thrive. Many of the participants are youngsters that have been, and are being homeschooled, Nathan noted. CNC, in addition to a Summertime Getaway, (in terms of Programs and Camps), can be a "Magical Wintertime Place" as well!

The Treehouse Project, Nathan noted, is a Capital Campaign that is being handled through RMSC. Many great strides have been made thus far, and the goal is to re-create "Timeless Childhood in the Woods". Its inspiration comes from Children's Classics such as "Where The Wild Things Are", and other notable favorites. "Children are curiosity driven", Nathan noted, and "That sparks the lessons!" 

Another Ongoing Project at CNC is the "Beaver Tower Fundraiser", and their goal is already in the process of being successfully reached. Nathan concluded with the thought that CNC, and all of its Programs and Projects can become an "Economic and Tourism Engine of the Finger Lakes"!

The Ace of Hearts was back to "Square One" this week, after Nancy's "big win" last week! The Kitty was at $16.00 today. Kevin's Ticket, #1905 was selected, and Kevin drew the Ace of Spades!

Our Happy Bills this noon were given in appreciation of Nathan's excellent Program. Rose's "Rotary Moment" had us all wanting to be on the LUN Committee, as she was very "cryptic" in talking about all that transpires at the meetings!

We recited the Four-Way Test before we each went our separate ways, but I think it is fitting to conclude with the Words of Wisdom that David had for us today. "Life is as simple as this. Ask yourself: What do I want? Why do I want it? How will I achieve it? Perhaps this prompt serves as a "Springboard" for us, as Rotarians, to continue to do good, and to create hope in the world!! Happy Thanksgiving, Everyone!!