It was a few days before Christmas
When at the Naples Hotel
The laughter and merriment
Of Rotarians did swell!
Just one year ago,
We gathered virtually.
This year, it was delightful
To celebrate in reality!
Bruce called us to order,
And the room came to life,
As we stood to salute
Our beloved Stars and Stripes.
To hear beautiful melodies
Wouldn’t take long
As Jack’s beautiful voice
Led us in song.
We were grateful tonight
For the fellowship we share,
As President Bruce led us
In fervent prayer.
Our thoughts were with Bruce,
And our sentiments did rally,
As we prayed for protection
For our sweet “Village in the Valley”.
Such joyful chatter arose
From that little room below,
For together with the Musicians,
We numbered 60 or so!!
Enjoying live music
Was an added thrill,
Entertained by the Jazz Band
Led by Conductor, Phil!
Those talented young musicians
Dressed in black, red, and white,
Pumped out a plethora of tunes
For our listening delight!
Two Members’ children
Were part of the Band.
Charlie and Mahina
Played music so grand!!
Our spirits were lifted,
That was for sure!
We thought they had finished,
But they did an encore!
Our thanks go to Phil
And the Jazz Band from NCS.
Once again, you have proven
Naples kids are among The Best!!
A Naples friend is in need,
This we would learn,
Steve passed the hat
To help Naples Fire Chief, Verne.
The hat quickly filled up
With donations, you see,
We all are praying
For Verne’s recovery.
Jack did some research
And his discovery did yield
There exists a Rotary Club
In the town of Mayfield!
Our hearts have poured out
To “Our Neighbors” in grief.
Bruce said that The Board voted
To send them some relief.
We have friends here at home
Who are also in need,
And this time of year,
Open Cupboard helps feed.
There were oodles of groceries,
And many items more,
Left by each of us,
As we entered the door.
The fare for the evening
Had such lovely appeal.
A “Charcuterie Table”
Preceded our meal.
Thank you, Lock, Stock, and Barrel,
The food was just great!
It really was special
Each being served our plate!
At cozy tables, and along the bar
We each sat down to dine.
And we saw the need, so we all agreed
Atmosphere and company divine!
The tasty meal, we so enjoyed,
We eventually did complete.
Then it was time to delve into the gifts
Which was surely an added “treat”!
Our Gift Exchange
Was even better still,
Our customary trade
Was hosted by Carrie and Bill!
As the numbers were chosen,
The fun had begun!
Marty was the first,
As he drew Number One!
And on went the “trading”
Til the pile was deplete.
Our Annual Custom
Made the evening so sweet!
It was an evening to remember,
And before our “final sip”,
We gave heartfelt thanks
To Planners, Judy, and Skip.
We thanked Our Hosts also,
At the Naples Hotel.
Having such a nice venue
Made things go so well!
Soon the time came
For us all to depart,
Then Fellow Member, Tom,
Shared thoughts from his heart.
Grateful to be part of Naples Rotary.
No doubt, he’s not alone,
For he has invited everyone
To an Open House at his home!
Yes, it was a few days before Christmas,
And said Bruce at the Hotel,
“Goodnight and God Bless!”
Dear Friends, all is well!
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