Today was our last Meeting in December, and our last Meeting of 2021, but the year wouldn’t end without a memorable Program, which was the result of Rose’s strategic planning! The topic was “Holiday Traditions”, and we’ll talk about that in more detail, a little bit later.
President Bruce welcomed us to today’s Noon Meeting, and he invited us to rise, and join him in saying The Pledge. Bruce also chose “My Country Tis of Thee” to lead us in song. Patrice gave The Invocation, asking Our Dear Heavenly Father to bless and protect each of us, and our families in the coming New Year. There were no guests at today’s Meeting, however, our little group of 20 made for a cozy gathering. Betsy and Robin joined us online, and Clyde and Liz tuned in from Hawaii, (making us all feel just a little bit jealous!)
There were a few updates to be shared with the Membership. First of all, Bruce said that we would be sending flowers and a sympathy card to Jo (Cornish), whose grandson passed away recently. Our love and prayers go out to Jo and her family. It was decided at this morning’s Board Meeting, that we would make a substantial donation to the people of Mayfield, Kentucky. We would also be “passing the hat” later, at the Meeting, to help those neighbors in need. We were glad to have Sue with us today also!
Rose gave a very thorough summary of how well this year’s Light Up Naples went on December 18th. She said that it was well-attended, and though there were a few last-minute changes, everything went well! Though the NCS Band and Chorus were not able to perform, the Trinity Bells chimed beautifully from the Trinity steps! Santa and Mrs. Claus arrived by ambulance, the Naples Firemen provided yummy chili, and the Scouts offered hot cocoa and delicious cookies. The bonfire added warmth and a nostalgic feeling as well! Kendyl, at the Naples Library, had a cute snowman craft for the kids to do, so there would be a take home souvenir! The Snow Globe Contest was a hit, as well! The Most Artistic was Jessica Middleton, the Most Imaginative was Shelly Priest, and the most Holiday Spirit was Siobhan Ness. There was a total of 50 Entries! Rose went on to thank all those who helped to make LUN a successful event this year. She thanked the Committee, (Sherry, Laurie, Karen, and Pat), also Bo, Kristin and Ben, Mike, Rick, John Steff, the Trinity Bells, Kendyl, and Derek. Specific businesses that Rose acknowledged were Luigi’s, Caruso’s, Rennoldson’s, Neapolitan Pizza, as well as the Naples Fire Department, the Scouts, and all the members of the Naples Community who came to enjoy a memorable evening. Many thanks to Sherry, who spearheaded the Committee, John, who did a lot of legwork, and to Rose for the fine job of reporting each week on the progress of LUN! It was wonderful to have our annual “Welcome to the Holiday Season” event return this year!!
In keeping with the “Spirit of the Season”, today’s Program, entitled “Holiday Traditions”, featured several members who were glad to share some of their personal Christmas Family Customs with the Membership.
Since Rose was already at the podium, she took her turn first, telling us that her family had Slovak roots. Roasted fish, egg drop soup, and luscious pastries were a part of her family’s Christmas fare. Going to Midnight Mass, was of course, memorable, as was the opening of presents. Rose remembers her cousins making homemade painted ornaments, but one of her fondest memories would be the shoe prints made by her dad!
Jack recalled how baking special holiday cookies made a fond family memory. Now, son, Jonathan has “taken over the role”, and his baking skills have risen to the challenge! Special ornaments have been passed down from Sharon’s Mom, Carolyn, and among some of them are treasured porcelain figurines!
Blanche remembered putting their Christmas tree up on Christmas Eve. Her family enjoyed turkey, ham, and leg of lamb at Christmastime. In the spirit of the season, they would invite people (who had no pace to go) over to share their family meal.
Cindy shared that music played a major role in her family’s holiday celebration. The kids played in the band and were members of the chorus. In high school, they went to the RPO! Cindy mused at the fact that she remembered a “pine needle pillow” that always smelled so good!
Sue, whose background is also Slovak, reminisced about the “big dough”, which was essentially a sweet bread that contained fried cabbage inside. Her son, Josh continues to prepare this family favorite. Of course, music was important to them also, as they would gather around the player piano, and have a good old fashion “sing-along”!
Sherry said that on her dad’s side of the family, opening a present that contained new pajamas (the night before Christmas) was customary. Gathering, as a family, on the stairs for a photo was a tradition that came from her mom’s side.
John added that going to his cousins in Spencerport was a family tradition. Their holiday fare consisted of Spanish rice and oyster stew! They would listen to the story of The Night Before Christmas. (Now, they watch a movie according to John!)
Mike told us that his family always gathered together and invited the neighbors over. They played Christmas games. There would be a potluck meal, and folks would bring a dish to pass. This year, he plans to make “one stop”…his parents!!
Pat and Bo talked about the Swedish Custom of observing St, Lucia Day on December 13th. Their daughters, and now their granddaughters, dress in white gowns and wear (battery-operated) candles in the form of a crown on their heads and sing the Hymn for Santa Lucia. Saffron buns and coffee are served on this day.
Tom reflected on the wonderful memories he had of Christmas, as a child. Coming from a large family, he recalled that there would be 45 people at Mum’s! They family would attend the Candlelight Service at Trinity, and they would fill the back pew! Fond memories were conjured up, as he remembered all the kids spending the night together!
Bruce rounded out the collection of Christmas memories shared, as he told us about growing up in Maine. Just for fun, he went back to using his New England accent, as he spoke! He was only 8 years old when he set out in the snowy woods to get the family Christmas tree, axe in hand, and snowshoes on his feet. Well, those woods in Maine are deep, you know, so he sank up to his armpits in the snow! Somehow, though, he managed to muster up his strength, get the tree, and make it back home in time for turkey dinner!
Hearing from so many about their family holiday traditions was not only very entertaining and enjoyable, but one can see how many of our customs overlap in certain ways. Above all, the common thread for each of us is family, and friends who are like family. It is in these bonds that we share with our loved ones that give us hope, meaning and purpose throughout our lives! Thanks to Rose for coming up with such a great program idea!!
As you could well imagine, many Happy Bills came tumbling forth in appreciation of today’s novel, yet timely Program! We were very pleased that the Light Up Naples Event turned out so well. Albie was glad that there hasn’t been much snow! Rose said that there is going to be a “Mystery Speaker” at the January 10th Meeting!
The Fifty-Fifty Kitty was up to $196 today! Karen’s Ticket, #264 was drawn. Karen picked the Ten of Diamonds from the pack.
The Win-Win was provided by Blanche today. The history question was: When was the Tellier House built? The answer: 1794.
The Rotary Moment was courtesy of Cindy. Cindy, who is a Clinical Laboratory Scientist, was happy to receive the recent E-mail from Karen Parkhurst. Rotary urges getting the Covid vaccines. Rotary International and the Rotary Foundation are committed to providing science-based information to Members. The vaccines are safe and effective, and getting the Booster is the best prevention. Just as Rotary has worked to eradicate Polio, we must respond to Covid 19!
John rounded out today’s Meeting with a cute story involving Andy. Apparently, a little girl asked him if he was the real Santa Claus. “Yes, I am!” answered Andy. “I’ll even tell you where you live!” With that being said, the child yanked at his beard, and discovered that it was real!! Oh, to believe like a child…
In closing, Pres. Bruce showed us a video that he had taken last Saturday at Light Up Naples. Truly, it looked like a magical day for many! “Merry Christmas to all!” exclaimed Bruce.
P.S. Don’t forget Tom’s Holiday Open House on December 27th! Merry Christmas, everyone!
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