The warm glow of the Christmas lights and decorations at The Redwood, along with Cindy's welcoming smile, seemed to usher us, with joy, tonight, as we gathered for our Evening Meeting. Though it seems hard to believe that the end of November is here, it's reassuring to know that the Holiday Season is upon us, and Naples NY Rotary continues to be very busy!

PE Karen, standing in for President Liz, who is still in Hawaii, led us in reciting The Pledge. John gave The Invocation, noting that in Rotary's mission of serving others, we must strive to make a better world. Jack led us in singing "God Bless America". There were 19 Members in attendance tonight, and we welcomed the company of Lanny, (husband of Jill), Tim, (from the Honeoye Rotary Club), and Mike, (our Guest Speaker). Tonight's Program was about Abilities Movement, presented by Michael Tuller. 

Starting off this Evening's Meeting, there were a few announcements to share with the Membership. It was reiterated that we were going to donate $300 to Miss Julie's School of Beauty in recognition of Giving Tuesday. The "Pickle Mafia" Musical Group will be performing at BVT on December 16th from 5-7 PM. The District Assembly, held in April, will be in Saratoga Springs this year.

Skip and Judy passed out flyers describing the Christmas Party. That is always a sure sign that some fun times are "on the way"! Our Annual Holiday Gathering will be on December 11th at Engine 14, so be sure to post this memo on your fridge, and let Skip know if you plan to attend. "The more, the merrier", as they say!

Rose gave a quick update on Light Up Naples. Decorating (at the Memorial Town Hall) will begin at 10:30 AM on December 2nd for Committee Members, and those wishing to help. (Hopefully, it won't be too cold outside!)

Jack reminded everyone that the Annual Holiday Concert will be this coming Sunday, December 3rd at 2 PM at St. Januarius Church. There will be a nice variety of music, Jack noted, and there will be yummy cookies to munch on afterwards!

Cindy noted that the sale of the Christmas (Disc) Ornaments is taking place at various locations about town, (Caruso's, Rennoldson's, and The Apothecary). The ornaments are being sold as "kits" which would be fun to assemble, and we encourage you to get one! 

Tonight's Program, as mentioned earlier, was about Abilities Movement, and it was brought to us by Mike Tuller, who is the Executive Director. Mike gave everyone a folder that described the Abilities Movement Program in depth, but essentially, AM is designed to provide health and wellness activities to those who have physical and developmental disabilities.

Mike, who has had over 20 years' experience in the field of managing programs for people with disabilities, is the founder of Abilities Movement. Mike love sports and outdoor activities, so it makes complete sense that he would be the founder of such a worthwhile program. His experience in the field of Adaptive Physical Education had given him the impetus to start an agency such as this, in order to help people with various needs realize their potential.

Abilities Movement, a not-for-profit organization, was created to encourage and enable people with a myriad of physical and neurological needs, by providing fitness, sports, and outdoor activities. Mike noted that in working with people of differing abilities, a "network of support" serves to help them overcome social and emotional barriers. The goal is to provide these individuals with "functional fitness", and a reasonable degree of independence. 

Surprisingly, we learned that many sports such as basketball, soccer, golf, kayaking, hiking, biking, and Winter sports can be adapted to the person's individual needs, and that, in itself, can serve to provide someone in this "situation" with a feeling of fulfillment in many ways!

The AM Program can be very impactful, as it promotes community integration and a healthy living curriculum. Workers will drive to the clients' residences to work with them! Mike shared some stories with us about specific clients who had their lives "turned around" by AM! This Program had given them the hope that was needed to give them a new lease on life!

Mike concluded his presentation in saying that if one wishes to become involved in AM, he or she can become a volunteer, which is always appreciated. Donations are welcome, as well. He left us with the message that AM builds the community, increases hope, and supports families. "Feel free to reach out!" Mike exclaimed.

Since Nancy's "Big Win" recently, the Ace of Hearts was at $33 tonight. The Ticket picked was that of Frank, #1986! Frank drew the Queen of Clubs from the pack.

The Happy Bills this evening, were for the Program, and there were a few other reasons too! John was pleased with how the Open Cupboard is progressing, with its goal of helping others in need. Over 200 meals were delivered at Thanksgiving! Our Nancy is beginning to feel better! Jack has a new truck! Bo and Pat had had a nice visit with their family in Massachusetts. Rose is in love with her new grandson, Ezra! Tim was happy to have been with us this evening. (He will be transferring to our Club soon!)

The "Rotary Moment" was perfect tonight, during this "Season of Giving"! John marveled at the number of Thanksgiving meals that were provided the Naples Community from some very generous sources; those being the Open Cupboard, Caruso's, and the Naples Council of Churches. We are blessed, indeed, to live in this wonderful community, don't you think?

PE Karen drew the Evening Meeting to a close, as we recited the Four-Way Test. Have a great week, and no doubt, we'll see one another at the Community Christmas Concert! Take Care, one and all!!