“It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas!” Signs of Holiday Cheer are popping up everywhere, and our little village of Naples is a sure sign of this annual trend. “It’s an exciting time, and Light Up Naples is this coming weekend!” exclaimed President Bruce, as he welcomed us to today’s Noon Meeting. “Another Noon Meeting?” you ask. Well, those five Mondays in November are what threw us off track, you might say!! However, The Redwood looked simply resplendent, all bedecked in red and green, and it seemed so welcoming to us, as we ushered in our first Meeting of December.
We joined Pres. Bruce in saying The Pledge, being followed by melodious Jack, as he led us in the singing of The Star-Spangled Banner. The Invocation was given today by one of Our Newest Members, Jo Anne. She said, in her fervent words, that she sees God’s Guidance in the Members of Naples Rotary. She prayed for His Continued Guidance, and for the health and well-being of each of us in the Naples Rotary Club, as we make it a priority to serve others. We were a cozy group of 16 today, and Jodi, Liz and Nardine joined us on Face Book Live. We welcomed guests, Chris Abraham, our Program Presenter, and Tracey Dello Stritto, (representing the Partnership for Ontario County).
Since it was the start of a new month, we were compelled to honor “Our December Folks.” Led by Jack, we sang a hearty round of “Congratulations” to the following: Gerry, Albie, Jo, Dan and Betty.
Here are a few “Updates” that were shared at Monday’s Meeting. John F. reported that the Rotary International Convention will be from June 4th through June 8th, 2022.The cost is $475 if one registers early. John added that the trip would only take 23 hours to drive! Now that would be a “haul” for sure!! 😊 John also mentioned that on Dec.13th, “Welcome to the World of Rotary” would be available via Zoom.
Tom mentioned that the Naples Grape Festival Survey is due Friday, December 17th. Here is the link to complete the Survey. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/RWDB7GB. Tom really appreciates our feedback! He reflected on the life of his Dear Friend, Beth, who recently passed and who was very special to his family. He commented that Jo Anne had really spoken from the heart in giving The Blessing, and added that it was important to focus on our loved ones, - those who mean the most to us throughout our lifetime(s). It is in keeping connected to one another, to those whom we love, and to those who’ve made an impact upon our lives that is so important, and that makes all the difference! How true, Tom! In terms of the GF Survey, Tom reported that we’re meeting our deadline, which is 12/17. Many have responded thus far! Tom and Jo Anne will meet subsequently, and they will give us an update as to where we are going.
Skip reported next on the Holiday Party, which is coming up soon!! Our Annual Christmas Celebration will be in-person this year! Hallelujah!! We will be “downstairs” this year in the “Tipping Glass” room at the Naples Hotel! Now doesn’t that sound delightful! We are each asked to bring a $10 gift for the Gift Exchange, as well as non-perishable items for the Open Cupboard. We will be treated to the music of the NCS Jazz Band, and the menu sounds delectable! Now that’s the way to bring on the Christmas Spirit!! (P.S. June really needs volunteers at the Open Cupboard if anyone can spare a bit of time.)
Rose, who has graciously offered to be “Our Spokesperson”, gave an update on Light Up Naples. Sherry had ordered more Snow Globes, and half of them went to the Apothecary, and half of them went to Luigi’s to be sold. The completed Snow Globes are due this Wednesday, 12/8, at FLX Music. The judging will be on 12/9. On 12/11, the Winners will be announced. Everything is progressing nicely in terms of our preparations for LUN on Saturday, 12/11! Our quaint village of Naples is looking so festive, and our annual celebration promises to be a memorable event!
His Grandparents, Doc and Katy, were Icons and Pillars of the Community with their love of horticulture and the people of Naples. His Dad, Darryl, an accomplished artist, and well-known Neapolitan, has traces of his talent throughout the area. Today, we welcomed the Third Generation of this remarkable family to our Meeting…Chris Abraham, who, like his Grandparents and Dad, has a commitment to our community; specifically Our Youth. Today’s Program was entitled “The Naples Youth Corporation,” and Chris Abraham was here to tell us all about it.
Chris, who is a graphic artist, began a screen-printing business in 1997. He has worked with Arbor Hill and Brew and Brats, having developed a great relationship. He has been instrumental in the development of the 18-Hole Disc Golf at the Community Park. Currently, Chris has a new project which has captured his attention, and this is the Naples Youth Corps. Chris gave us a peek into the past, talking about how back in 1960, the property from NCS, served the youth of Naples as Scout Houses. In the 1980’s, our very own Nardine was a part of the Naples Youth Center Inc., in which she offered counseling. At that time, their facility had been in a “portable”, which resembled those used by the school to house classrooms. Eventually, the buildings were taken down, and Chris admits that were unclear time restrictions, and that perhaps it had been a hasty removal. Chris showed us a picture of The Little Library that had been erected on the premises. A book exchange is provided, with the encouragement of “take one, or leave one.” Fortunately, it appears that this source of quality books, for the taking, is being utilized! Chris has worked with the NCS Cross-Country Team in establishing 5K and 10K Runs, with the initiative of NCS student, and CC Member, Jude Rischpater.
Chris talked about the current initiative of the Naples Youth Corps, and that is the Youth Needs Survey which encompasses the following items: 1) Access to free or affordable mental health services, 2) Safe apprenticeship, 3) Safe place to skateboard and 4) Safe place for Performance Art.
The goal of the Naples Youth Corps is to develop a partnership with Naples Central School, the Village and Town, and the Naples Rotary Club. “The future looks bright!” noted Chris, displaying a sketch created by architect Matt Rischpater, which showed some plans for the area which they occupy. There is a Three-Phase Future Plan for the Naples Youth Corps. First, they hope to have a safe, hard-scaped area for skateboarding and congregating. Next, they hope to have a “Three Season” Outdoor Shelter. Finally, they would like to have a “Green Building,” with a focus on the educational part. Ideas would be generated by the kids.
Current expenses average about $900 annually, Chris told us. They are going to evaluate the Survey and the responses received. “Communication will be pivotal!” Chris said. The goal is to have “connections for all kids.” “Keep us in the loop!” Chris added at the completion of his presentation. Collaboration is important!! (Possibly we could enlist the help of Interact?)
As we came to the segment of our Meeting that focused on the Happy Bills, we recollected that this expression was derived from our Dear Late Member, Bill Vierhile, who loved youth. Chris’s Grandfather, Doc Abraham, was also an avid Rotarian…such a legacy! Today’s wonderful Program was, of course, a prompt for the many Happy Bills that were donated. Light Up Naples ran a close second! John had to pay a Fine for being “plugged” 3 times, his cell phone rang, and he and Sherry had a taken a trip to the Carolinas to see family!
Jack reminded the Membership that this coming Sunday, December 12th, there will be a Farewell Party for Pastor Robin at Trinity Federated Church. The Service is at 9:30, and the Bells will be playing in Robin’s honor. Jack urges us to “swing by”!
The Ace of Hearts was elusive again today. The Kitty rested at $178. Tom’s Ticket, #3196 was selected, and he drew the King of Clubs.
John had the Win-Win. Near and Dear to Neapolitans, how long was the Green Thumb operative? 52 years!
It was a day for “the J’s”! John had the Rotary moment as well! He gleaned his thought from the Rotary Magazine that dwelled on the idea of “being a part of something bigger than yourself”. Fighting disease, providing clean water, giving neo-natal care, working toward a safe environment, and seeking peace…as Rotarians, that’s how we do that!!
Hope to see many Fellow Members at Light Up Naples this weekend! Our next Meeting on December 13th will be our Christmas Party! Cheers!!
at week, everyone! See you on December 6th!
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