Those milder temperatures today, sure seemed welcome after these past few days of arctic-like weather! As we gazed at the steady drip, drip, drip of the eaves outside the dining room at The Redwood this noon, we were reminded that February is here, and that means it's a short month! (Although the days are getting longer!) Nevertheless, in glancing at the calendar, it seems that February is going to be a busy month, just the same!

The blending of friendly chatter and warm greetings buzzed about, as 22 Members and 6 Guests gathered today for our first Meeting of the month. Jack invited us to rise for The Pledge, followed by our singing "My Country Tis of Thee". Reflecting upon February being Peace and Conflict Resolution Month, Jack's thoughts were about how our continued service to others should foster peace, hope, and goodwill throughout the world.

Our friendly Greeter, Frank, introduced today's guests. Joining us today were Kari Buch and Caitlin Farnung, (from United Way), Christina Bliss, (from Naples Open Cupboard), Anna and Uryu, (our Exchange Students), and our former Naples Rotary Member, Rose, (who promises to visit regularly)!

There seemed to be quite a few announcements today, beginning with Jack. He reminded us that the District Learning Assembly will be April 5th at Midlakes, which is located on Route 488, going toward Phelps. The District Conference will be in Corning this year from May 2nd-4th. Jack noted that the DC is a time of both learning and fellowship! He also read a Thank You Note from the Area Exchange Students, who were treated to a tasty breakfast at Trinity Federated Church on Sunday. The kids were very polite, according to Jack. There were about 30 altogether, and Jill and Marty were on hand to help too!

Rose shared a few words with us. She said that she feels like a "Dual Club Member", as she now seems to have ties with both the Naples Rotary Club and the Victor-Farmington Rotary Club, of which she is now a part. Farmington will host a "Taste of the Finger Lakes" on March 23rd. This Wednesday, February 5th, at 12:15, the Victor-Farmington RC will host the great-grandson of Mahatma Gandhi at Ravenwood. If one is interested in going, please be sure to let Rose know before then! Jo noted that there will be a Euchre Tournament coming up soon to benefit Hospeace House.

Sherry reminded us that Vintage, Vines, and Valentines will be celebrated in Naples this coming Saturday, February 8th.The cost is 25.00 online, and 30.00 at the door. Jack will again be presiding over the Renewal of Vows, and he told us that there would be music on hand as well! We can look forward to music from Jim Strickland and Sharon McHargue, The Fiddler! Jack may even sing a song too! Blanche talked about the Chocolate Cake Contest that day, and Rose said that there would be "Fishing for Love" at the BVT!

Led by Jack, we sang "Congratulations" to our February Birthday Folks. This included John F. on the 14th, Bruce M. and Billy G. on the 15th, Bo L. on the 24th, and Brenda K. on the 28th. Best Wishes to each of you!

Today's Program featured Kari Buch and Caitlin Farnung, who represented The United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes. They were here to tell us about the "Alice" Program. "Alice" stands for Asset Limited Income Constrained Employed. The Alice Program provides a way to think differently about poverty. It was noted that the federal poverty level for a single person in 2025 is 15,060. How can those that are accessing Federal Programs be helped? The Alice Program, though not a constant, is designed to help those who are below the household survival budget. There are many factors that can be taken into consideration; among some of them being housing, transportation, food, healthcare, and childcare. Financial hardships vary by location, but the fact remains that they are existent in all areas.

As a means of helping us to understand more fully how it must be for those families undergoing economic difficulties, a Group Activity was planned. Each of the tables (of attendees) was given a hypothetical "Family". Each "Family" had its own profile, therefore rendering group decision-making as to how its allotted "coins" should be spent. The "Chart" that each family was given included the areas of Housing, Childcare, Savings, Transportation, Food, Technology, Livability. and Healthcare. Each Group was prompted to work, as a team, as they attempted to spend the "money" judiciously. It was a challenge given each family's circumstances, yet we could understand how real-life families have to cope with these on-going decisions on a daily basis! At the conclusion of the activity, each "family" was given two extra coins that could be used to meet additional family expenses.

In conclusion, Kari and Caitlin noted that "Alice in Action Through Allyship" can be accomplished in ways such as building partnerships, donating, and volunteering. 

Judy announced that the Ace of Hearts was up to 95.00  today! Caitlin drew the Ticket of Kristina, who picked the Ten of Clubs from the pack.

Many Happy Bills were offered in appreciation of the wonderful Program that was delivered today. Other reasons included were that Judy and Skip were feeling better, the Murder Mystery at Brew and Brats was lots of fun, and the Exchange Student Breakfast went well! We were even treated to a snippet of "I Wish I Were a Brew and Brats Wiener" from our musical Rose!

John and Sherry had a nostalgic picture to share for the Rotary Moment. It featured a young John Brahm receiving an award at the Trout Derby from 44 years ago!

Before he brought the Meeting to a conclusion, with the reciting of the Four-Way Test, Jack encouraged us to do whatever we can to promote peace!