PpWhat a pleasure it was to see so many members’ smiling faces online, today, as this added to the abundant warmth and sunshine that prevailed! There were 26 of us, including our guest speaker, Pam Venuti. Pres. Tom opened the meeting, as we joined him in reciting The Pledge to Our Flag. We remained standing, as we listened to a recording of “God Bless America”. Tom also conveyed his eloquence in giving the Invocation, and in asking The Lord to keep us safe, and connected during these challenging times. As mentioned earlier, our special guest today was Pam Venuti, who presented the program, “Thrive to Survive”.
Under “What’s Happening?”, Pres. Tom noted that next week, John Smarge, from the Naples, Florida Rotary Club, will give us an overview of “what’s happening” in their neck of the woods. Skip noted that the Lucky Ducky Derby, slated for May 9th, has been postponed. Jamie also mentioned that the ballots for the Robert Allen Award will be forthcoming. Jack stated that the Naples Angels are not very busy at this time. Sufficient funds are available, should we know of anyone in need, and we can let the Naples Angels know. The number to call is 585-374-5277.
“Rotary connects the world”, as Pres. Tom said, and at this time, there is no greater need for connecting with one another, albeit in various, innovative ways. PE Matt introduced today’s special guest, Pam Venuti, who presented her topic, “Thrive to Survive”. Thrive to Survive began in Geneva, and the program encompasses 5 counties: Ontario, Seneca, Schuyler, Yates, and Wayne. The program provides financial and physical support to families of those facing, and dealing with cancer. In the hopes of “making a difference for others”, this group was formed in 2012, consisting of five board members. Their goal was to provide unique services to those families, in the hope of alleviating some of the hardships that accompany this journey. Their meetings take place at the Geneva Public Library once per month, and anyone who has dealt with cancer is eligible…survivors and caregivers included. Pam noted that survivors qualify for assistance, and that grants are available to assist them. There is also another means of support (information) available, and that is through notecards, brochures, and gift cards to Wegman’s. “There are miscellaneous needs outside of money”, we were told, and this is where random acts of kindness come into play. “Cancer Distraction Bags” have been created, as helpful items for cancer patients to bring to appointments, as a means of distraction. These “bags” were distributed at area cancer centers. Five hundred of them were created, and 300 have been distributed. These bags contain a variety of “helpful” items that would serve to keep the cancer patients a bit more focused and positive. The Board has created a resource list of available help, and they have partnered with the Geneva YMCA. They have also created a 12 week “Exercise Group” that affords emotional support to all those involved. Their means of support is gleaned from fundraisers, local businesses, and the generosity of others. Pam reported that since 2012, help to 800 plus cancer survivors has been provided! Thank you for making a difference, and improving our communities, and many thanks, Pam, for all that you are doing to help others, and for sharing your story with us! Frank added that in terms of donations, one may go to the website https://www.thrivetosurvive.org or mail to PO Box 1146, Geneva, New York 14456.
As you can imagine, our Fines and Happy Bills focused on the content given us by Pam. Many of us have been touched by the effects of cancer, either individually, or through family members. Nevertheless, it affects each and every one of us in some intrinsic way. Here are today’s Fines and Happy Bills collectively…John F. had his cellphone ring, and he was happy about today’s sunshine. Marty had missed meetings and he appreciated the program. Jack’s pup barked, he enjoyed the program, and he’s glad the golf courses are reopening. Penny was “late to the meeting”, she enjoyed the program, and she’s happy to see the sun. Leah has missed some meetings, and she liked the program. Blanche has enjoyed the sun, and the program, and she was a bit late. Jamie and Bessie ate lunch during the meeting, and they liked the program. Pat liked the program, the sunshine, and a former colleague, Mary Hanlon, was on the Thrive to Survive Board. Frank was glad about the sunshine and the program. Skip and Judy enjoyed the program. Carrie liked the program, and her family was touched by cancer. Matt enjoyed the program. Karen enjoyed the program, she liked seeing the sunshine today, and she has been making masks for those who need protection during the Covid 19 Pandemic. Thank you, Karen! Jodi has missed some meetings. Brenda enjoyed the program, and she has missed some meetings. Nancy appreciated the program, and she is glad to see the sun. Pres. Tom enjoyed the program, for as you all know, this issue hits close to home for him.
Our Leah, who joined us from sunny Florida, reported that in her area, as in Naples, there are foodbanks set up to help others. Penny, whom we were glad to see on board today, reported that she had gotten in touch with John Almekinder. Concerning the “yard signs” for the 2020 Grads, the cost is $7.50 per sign. John is able to do personal or generic signs, and Penny will send out that contact information. Penny is also creating masks for those in need. Thank you, Penny for your service above self! Jack and Jodi have also let the membership know that our Alex is finally home from a long period of convalescence. It would be nice if each of us could send her a little note of support, cheer, and concern as she regains her health and strength. It seems that would surely be appreciated on Alex’s part.
In terms of Happy Bills and Fines, as I mentioned before, many, many thanks for being so specific in terms of what you “owe”. I have tried to keep track of everyone’s “Fines”. At yesterday’s meeting, it was suggested that we send our money directly to Susan. I talked with Susan earlier today, and she said that she does not mind that our Fines etc. be sent directly to her. Her address, in case anyone needs it, is as follows: Susan Doty 210 South Main Street Apartment 6 Naples, New York 14512. Thank you everyone for your generosity!
This concludes the report of this week’s happenings with the Naples Rotary Club. My wish for everyone is to stay healthy and remain positive. We will get through this, God willing! Until we “see” each other again, online, love and blessings to each and every one of you! See you on the 27th!
