Many gifts were bestowed upon us at this evening's Rotary Meeting! First of all, it had been a spectacular late Fall day in our little bucolic corner of the world. Secondly, our hearts were warmed by the fond memories that we shared of our Sweet Marion, who left us recently. Finally, our spirits were lifted as we came to know our Exchange Student, Hjanne, just a little bit better tonight!

President Tom gazed upon the large group of members and guests, and expressed his delight in seeing such a great turn-out for tonight's meeting! Since his gavel was "nowhere to be found", Pres. Tom opened the meeting using Milo's bone as a substitute gavel! We joined him in reciting The Pledge. Pastor Robin was the perfect one to give The Invocation, as she beckoned us each to keep Marion and her Dear Family in our thoughts and prayers. We had a moment of silent prayer in remembering Our Dear Departed Honorary Member. Our song was chosen by Jack, as we all sang God Bless America, and to honor Hjanne, we listened to, and viewed The Belgian National Anthem on the screen. It is a very pretty tune, indeed! 

In addition to the 29 Members present, Laurie had the pleasure of introducing our 13 guests! We welcomed Hjanne, our Exchange Student, who would be tonight's speaker. She was flanked by "her family" which included Amy, Arden, Phoebe, and Frazey. Skip, Judy, and Carrie welcomed family members, Aimee, Charlie, and Grady. Sharon joined us this evening, as well as Chip and his wife, Stuart. Rounding out the list were Marianna and Andy, future Rotary Members.

President Tom chose to insert The Rotary Moment at this juncture, as we remembered Our Marian. Several members shared fond memories of this Dear Lady, recalling her friendliness, good nature, and a personality full of spirit. Pres. Tom even recalled how Marian's husband, Bruce, was his sponsor when he joined Rotary. Our wonderful memories of Marian were elevated, as we viewed delightful pictures of her being "herself"!

To preface the Communication Portion of the meeting, Tom showed a little snippet of "communication" between pups, Milo and Teddy. In terms of "What's Happening?", Patrice gave a summary of the recent Board Meeting. 

• Club Calendar Review: We are set for programs through Christmas. The Annual Christmas Party will be on 12/09. We will do donations for Open Cupboard and a Gift Exchange.
• Communication Update: Based on a recent survey conducted by Matt, it appears that over half of the club is in favor of having our 4th Evening Meeting of the month take place at Hollerhorn. We will try this, every other month, beginning in November. At the end of the (Rotary) year, we'll evaluate how this idea worked.
• Light Up Naples: Sherry is willing to take on the chairmanship of this event, along with the help of Judy. Naples Rotary will be very much involved. The motion was carried that we budget $250 for expenses.
• The motion was carried that The Rotary Foundation add to what was raised by the Walk of Life to amount to an even $16,000. The donation to Hospeace House will thus total $9,600, and the Margery Pawluk Cancer Fund will receive $6,400.
• The motion was carried that a total of $5,000 be donated to the FLCC John H. Brahm III Viticulture Scholarship   Fund. The Foundation will produce a check in this amount, to be given by John French in a timely manner.
• Rotary Archived Records: Mike has offered a suitable space in his basement to store records, should the need arise.
• Literacy Committee Update: Shanna reported that the Little Library is completed, and it will be installed at its appointed location soon.
• Memorial: Steve noted that the Memorial for Al Mann is completed, and that we will pick a date for its formal dedication. Jack will contact Babette and Laura.