Seeing that sunshine today sure was refreshing after that stretch of dismal weather we’ve been having lately. We had our first meeting of November this noon, which will be the first of five meetings this month. Today, we had a “Double Program” which was given by Rose, who was first, and then Tom, who followed.
President Bruce opened the meeting, as we joined him in saying The Pledge. He and John F. led us in singing “My Country Tis of Thee”. Sherry very kindly offered to give The Invocation, which leaned toward the Rotary Motto for this year, “Serve to Change Lives”. Jack, looking very dapper in his green blazer, welcomed each of us to the meeting, as he was the Greeter for today. Eighteen Members were at the meeting, along with Sharon, one of our regular guests. In addition, those Members who joined us on Face Book Live were Leah, Frank, Judy, Nardine, Alex, and Robin.
After the Blessing, Pres. Bruce called for a moment of silence after we had learned of the sudden passing of Justin Kickbush, son of Laurie. Our heartfelt love, thoughts, and prayers are with Laurie and her family. We also will keep Jill and her family in our thoughts and prayers, as she recently lost Her Mom.
As is customary at the beginning of each new month, we honored the November Birthdays, which included Nancy, Nardine, Mike, and Sue. Best Wishes to each of you! Here’s hoping you will have a wonderful year!
Liz had an update on the Barn Quilts. Of the brilliant quilts that were scattered alongside the red building at Joseph’s, only two are now remaining. Liz said that a total of $220 was made, and that amount will go toward the Scholarship Fund.
Mike briefly updated us on the Grape Fest. The books are closed as of October 31st. Approximately $7000 was made for the Naples Rotary and the Naples Historical Society. Mike presented the check to Bruce. “Mike was apparently two places at once” kidded John, as there was a picture of him (on the screen) in the doorway at Brew and Brats!
The first of the Two-Part Program this noon was given by Rose, who did an excellent job in summarizing the progress of the Light Up Naples Committee. The date for LUN is set for December 11th from 5-8 PM. The Committee has met four times, so far, and things are coming together, as the plans for that day are being “firmed up”. Starting at the Fire Hall, there will be activities throughout town, with the evening events culminating at the Memorial Town Hall. There will be a “fund-raiser” which will be the selling of Snow Globes at $5 each. They will be available for sale at Caruso’s and Rennoldson’s, and possibly two additional sites. They can be decorated and returned by Dec. 8th to be entered into a contest. Judging will be on Dec. 9th. They will be displayed at Finger Lakes Music. Rose had prepared a Volunteer Sign-Up Sheet for those who wish to help sell the Snow Globes. Each seller will have his/her own box of materials to avoid confusion, and to make things easier. There will be a “Snowman Craft” at the Library that evening also. Volunteers willing to help with activities and decorations are most welcome. An Agenda for the LUN Day will be forthcoming. Sherry plans to include a map of the Village and Activity Locations on the Rotary Face Book Page. She will also prepare a brochure to send home with the schoolkids. The Snow Globes will be available within the next couple of weeks. Fun, food, and festivities, (with even a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus), are sure to make Light Up Naples 2021 a delightful day for the whole family!
Part Two of today’s Program was given by Tom, who is very passionate about next year’s Grape Fest. “September 24th and 25th, 2022, are right around the corner!” said Tom in his typically positive way. He reviewed the Grape Fest of 2021, saying that the books had closed on October 31st. There was a total revenue of $58,000, and after expenses were handled, there was $7,471 for both the Naples Rotary and the Naples Historical Society. Tom thanked Donna, JoAnne, Nancy, and Mike for their hard work in the past, as well as the many volunteers who have helped each year to make the Grape Fest a success.
Tom reviewed the Proposal Resolution, which was passed October 18th, with Tom being approved as the President of what will now be known as the Naples Grape and Arts Festival LLC. He presented The Naples Grape and Arts Festival LLC Organizational Chart, which clearly illustrated how the various components would function under his leadership.
In his review of the Proposal Resolution, Tom clearly defined the rationale for incorporating these changes. He defined this connection between these Committees, (as indicated on the Organizational Chart), as Collaboration.
In “Going Forward”, on a very serious note, Tom indicated that it was important that Naples Rotary continues to uphold its motto embodied in The Four-Way Test. “We have a duty to our community to uphold our principles,” he noted. Being a pillar of the community, and hailing from a very philanthropic family, Tom shared his background and credentials with us, proving that he is well-suited to take on this new role as President of the NGAF LLC. He praised JoAnne for her credentials, background of experience, and skills, as well. “We need to stay positive,” he added. “Let’s make this Grape Fest of 2022 the best yet!”
Here are the reasons for Today’s Happy Bills. We enjoyed both Programs: that of Rose, and that of Tom. Here are two individuals who exude positivity! Jack talked about the Multi-District Polio Event that was held in Liverpool over the weekend. RI President-Elect, Jennifer Jones, was the Speaker, and her message was powerful! Jack noted that District 7120 had a great representation! Bo has the Badge Box all “refurbished”.
Fifty-Fifty: Mike drew Ticket #911. It belonged to Sue, who drew the Ace of Clubs. The Kitty was at $77!
Win-Win: Mike did this segment for us today. There were two questions: 1. What is the fastest growing part of a living creature? Answer: Antlers! 2. How many acres are there in Hi-Tor? Answer: 6,800!
Rotary Moment: Nancy had a memorable R. M. Many years ago, she was the first woman to become a Member of the Naples Rotary Club. She, of course, was a bit nervous, but she said that Skip greeted her, and made her feel welcome! Three years later, she became the President of the NRC!!
Someone mentioned during the Happy Bills that we could “feel” the conviction in Tom’s heart. Indeed, we can appreciate that he is passionate about what he sees in our future. Let’s accentuate the positive, as they say, and neither should we forget Pres. Bruce’s mantra…”one kind word”. Take Care, All! See you on Nov. 8th for the Evening Meeting.
For the Grape Festival Presentation – November 1st
Here is the Face Book Live Link:
