Today, the memorable occasion of the Solar Eclipse left many of us with some recollections of this afternoon's event, when the Naples Valley experienced momentary twilight around 3:20. Though the clouds came rolling in, truly, this was a moment that we'd all remember!

Things were a bit brighter this evening, as Cindy greeted us warmly when we came to The Redwood. We joined President Liz in saying The Pledge, while Jack chose "God Bless America" to lead us in song. In his Invocation, John reminded us of the "Peaks" and "Valleys" that we experience throughout our lives, and how we can learn and benefit from each. Along with 24 Members, we welcomed Guests, Greg Bendzlowicz and his wife, Jodi, along with Diane, Sharon, and Sawyer. Greg would be giving tonight's Program, and Jack would have the Rotary Moment. 

President Liz had several announcements to share with us. * First, Cindy introduced Our Guests. * The Solar Eclipse Glasses can be turned in at the District Training Assembly, or at the Naples Library. * Be sure to sign up for the District Training Assembly, which is this coming Saturday. Registration begins at 7:30 AM. * The Spring Dinner will be at Engine 14 on April 22nd. A Euchre Tournament is coming up, sponsored by the Penfield Rotary Club. * Rotary Lite will be this Wednesday, April 10th, at Brew and Brats from 6-8 PM. * Micah noted that an Optional Workday for Camp O. will be on Saturday, April 20th. * The Camp O. Golf Tournament is June 8th. (That is also the date of the Memorial Celebration for Bill Cooper). * A Memorial Day Parade Organizer is needed. * Liz read a note from Hospeace House, thanking us for the $100 Donation in memory of Ed Joseph. * Monte Carlo Night is May 4th. See Jo, Rose, or Sue for tickets. 

Sue spoke a bit about the 2024 Trout Derby. "It had been a wonderful day!" Sue exclaimed. There had been great prizes and donations. Sue thanked all the Committee Members who had helped. She thanked all who came, and she noted that we had netted over $3000!

Micah then got up, and spoke, noting that 95 fish had been turned in, and that it had been a really good year! "We signed up 342 Anglers!" Micah said with enthusiasm.

We welcomed retired Police Officer, Greg Bendzlowicz this evening, as he told us a little bit about himself, and his aspirations for the future. Greg, who had been invited by Nancy to speak, had been District Lieutenant for the City of Geneva Police Department. He had also been County Supervisor for 8 years in Geneva (District 3). Having grown up near New York City, Greg and his family found Naples to be "a welcome change" when they moved here over 2 years ago. He recalled his experience working for the Village of Waterloo and doing Firearms Training. In 2000, he became a detective, and handled many major crimes in the Geneva Area. He even landed an appearance on the television program, "America's Most Wanted"!

Greg's additional interests led to Politics, when his friend, Don endorsed him for a position on a Health and Human Service Committee, and he was even elected to a third term! Upon coming to Naples, he noted that there was a nice voter turnout in Naples comparatively. Having remembered living in Franklin County, which was very rural, Greg noted how small locations can see changes over time. He sees Naples as a place with lots of "purposeful involvement". He appreciates our school system, and he finds our community to be a benefit to his family! "Here I am!" Greg exclaimed. Nowadays, he is delivering medication for the Naples Apothecary. (Nancy appreciates that!)

At this juncture, Jack inserted a "Rotary Moment", when he mentioned that the Famous Naples Grape Pie had made its appearance on the TV Program featuring Kelly Ripa. She should have savored that incomparable taste!

Jo had the Ace of Hearts ready! The Kitty was at $174 tonight! Greg drew Ticket #2254, which was that of Alan. Alan fished the Jack of Diamonds from the pack.

Micah noted that we'll find another time to present Albie's painting to its Winner, Hunter, who couldn't be with us this evening.

There were plenty of Happy Bills in appreciation of the Trout Derby and Greg's Presentation. Carrie and Grady had had a great trip to Costa Rica, while Bill went to Florida! Marty appreciated the work Skip did in preparing the Great Grape Derby Tickets. That event will be May 4th also!

Clyde and Liz have appreciated all our support, as she helps her dad with his health care these days. Also, Jo Anne and Albie asked us to keep their daughter, Stacey in our thoughts, as she is to have surgery this week. They also mentioned that their Granddaughter, Jordan became engaged!

Pres. Liz closed the Meeting tonight, as we all recited The Four-Way Test.

PS Rotary Lite, last night, at Brew and Brats was very enjoyable! There were nine of us there, and we sipped, and munched, and chatted! Many thanks to John and Sherry for their hospitality!

PPS Don't forget to mark your calendars for the Spring Dinner on Monday, April 22nd, at Engine 14!