Wow! What an excellent turnout, and group of guests we had at today’s “Virtual Connection”! Pres. Tom opened the meeting, as we joined him, from our homes, in reciting The Pledge. We continued to stand, as we listened to God Bless America. Patrice gave The Blessing, asking Our Lord to help us choose “peace over panic” during these trying times, and to place our trust in Him, as we continue to serve others. In addition to the 28 members in attendance today, we had the pleasure of “meeting” John Smarge, from the Naples Rotary Club in Florida. John was today’s program presenter, and along with him, were His fellow club members, Jane, Jeff, Lisa, Rick, and Tony. Added to this list was Janet Tenreiro, as well!

Under “What’s Happening”, Pres. Tom announced that, next week, Marty would be back for an “encore presentation”. We’ll enjoy hearing from Marty again, as he talks about World Class Off-Road Racing. Andy gave an update on the Rotary Responders, noting that things continue to go well. He and Marianna are receiving about 2.5 calls per day requesting assistance.

The special guest today was John Smarge, current President of the Naples, Florida, Rotary Club. John introduced his fellow members, who were also “at the meeting”. Just as Rotary connects the world, Pres. Tom noted that we were making a connection with our “sister city” of Naples, Florida, and albeit virtual, it was certainly enjoyable! PE Matt gave the Introduction, and he gave a brief overview of our club. “One of the prettiest corners of NYS”, said Matt. “Though we wish we had the Florida sun!” We are a very active club, and since the onset of Covid 19, we have been meeting online. We continue to think about, and plan for programs that will fit into the cadre of present-day circumstances.

John began his presentation by noting that, although there are other “Naples” locations throughout the US, the Naples, Florida location is the only other “Naples” that has a Rotary Club besides us! John has had a connection to our “neck of the woods”, as he had lived in Watkins Glen for a period of time. Back in November of 1951, the Naples, Florida Rotary Club was launched, as 24 businessmen met at the Naples Beach Hotel. Until the recent Pandemic set in, this had been the meeting place for the NRC for 69 years! He was 23 when he joined the club, and though the club was elite and restrictive, his persistence paid off, and he became a member! During the 90’s, the membership ranged around the 150 mark, as “Snowbirds” would often join them during the Winter months. Today, their membership is at 109, with 25% of the members being women. The ages of the members range from 29 to 92! (I think we are 23 to 96!) John highlighted the fact that last year, they had a “membership explosion”, as 25 new members were added to their group! “It’s the best hour and a half of the week!” noted John.

After giving an overview of the Naples, Florida RC, John went on to pinpoint some of the broader areas, and local programs his club supports. NFRC supports RI charities, of course. Internationally, they are a part of the “Handwash” Program, which helps the country of Haiti. It was interesting to learn of NFRC’s local programs and fundraisers. Some of these included “Learn to Earn”, (their biggest activity), “Meals of Hope”, “Cadillac Raffle”, and the “Naples Food, Wine, and Beer Fest”. (This sounds familiar, doesn’t it?) All of these fundraisers served to raise plenty of money to support various causes in their neighborhood. John admitted that he truly missed the camaraderie of (physically) being with his club since the Coronavirus set in, and that some of his closest friends have been gleaned from the club. I think we would have to admit the same is true for the Naples, New York Club! He is looking forward to shared fellowship, either in person, or virtually! He attributes the inspiration in his club has come from all ages! He also reminded us that this Saturday, (5/2), on Facebook Live, there will be a “Covid 19 Telethon” at 11:00. Many thanks to John and his team for spending some time with us today, and for helping the “Lakes” and the “Ocean” to connect!

“Twas time for Fines and Happy Bills. Agreed, that we all enjoyed John’s program, and that we were pleased to get to know a little bit more about our “Sister City”. Here are the individual bills. Bruce is glad for the club, Pres. Tom, and Mike. Marty and Jill liked the program, and they thought our two “Fests” were quite similar. Matt liked the program, he is looking forward to hearing from Marty, and NCS rated #12 in a recent poll! Jack was glad to see everyone, he has friends in Naples, Fla., and he enjoyed some golf over the weekend. John F. has met Lisa, and he is looking forward to hearing from Marty again. Nancy liked the program. Andy missed some meetings, and he liked the program. Frank liked the program, and he likes Naples, Fla. Carrie’s boys participated in the Turkey Hunt, and she had a toilet paper delivery. She also liked the program. Blanche liked the program, and she is proud of Naples CS, her Alma Mater. Pat and Bo enjoyed the program, they had “Zoomed” with their kids, and they wish good health for all. Mike liked the program, and he enjoyed “seeing” everyone today. John, (from Naples, Fla.) gave a donation to our Naples, NY Club.

Warren had the Rotary Moment. Many years ago, Jim Tilburg invited him to a Rotary Meeting at Edgerton’s Party House. Eventually, Warren became a member under the leadership of Walt Zerrahn. He acquired the “Treasurer’s Briefcase”. He thanked Pres. Tom, and he and Roberta have enjoyed the Zoom Meetings. He added, “Let’s continue to be safe and healthy!”

P.S. There have been two “Online District Meetings” thus far, and they have covered items that would have been addressed at the District Assembly, had it taken place. The areas that have been discussed have been Membership, and Corporate Membership. The meetings have lasted about an hour, and they have been very informative. The next District Online Meeting will be 5/6 at 6:00, should anyone be interested.

It was great to “see” so many at today’s meeting! We’ll gather online again, next week, to hear from Marty, and to have some fellowship. Until then, stay safe and healthy, everyone!