“Welcome to our first evening meeting in seven months, and it’s wonderful to see everyone!” exclaimed President Matt with gavel clenched tightly in his fist. Truly. It was great to gather for an evening meeting after such a long hiatus! Twenty-one members met for dinner tonight, along with guests, Mindy and Rebecca. Brenda and Sherry were online, along with Margaret Fargnoli

We joined Matt for the Pledge, then Alex gave The Blessing, asking Our Heavenly Father to bless, and guide us in our work. We welcomed our guests with hearty applause. Tonight’s Program was brought to us by our own (PP), Tom Hawks.

We gave a round of “Congratulations” to the members who have an October Birthday, and that would be Diane, Jamie, Marty, and Rose. The October Anniversaries include Roberta and Warren, and Carrie and Bill. Best Wishes to all!

Skip then reported on the Lucky Ducky Derby, which was held last Saturday. There was a great turnout of Rotarians at the event, as well as volunteers to help “stuff” the ducks. “We had our race in shallow water!” reported Skip, but everything worked out just fine. (Typically, the Race is held in May.)  We made about $645 Skip noted, and he thanked Bill G. for his help. The winner of one $100 prize returned the money to the Club, so that was an unexpected surprise! Some of Skip’s family members were taking home cash, so that made us all wonder if there was a bit of “fowl play!” Laurie had prepared a neatly-made display of the winners, which can be used again next year.

Matt asked Laurie to give an update on the school supplies, which have been purchased for the UPK-12 students. Since there had been such an ample supply of funds available for this endeavor, we were able to purchase supplies for the older students, as well! There were sufficient funds left over, so Laurie talked to Abby Castle, the Art Teacher at the Elementary School, to see where there might be additional needs. Laurie was able to get seven 25-pound boxes of clay for the Art Room, plus 5 headphones with microphones for the kids! The students will be delighted, for sure! Many thanks to Laurie for reaching out to the Elementary School to investigate further needs.

Matt brought us up to date for the remainder of the month of October. Next Monday, there will be a Board Meeting at 10:30. The Program for next week will feature Jennifer Emmons, and she will talk about being “On Duty During a Pandemic”. The following week, (10/26), another one of our fine members will present, and that will be Blanche, who will be sharing “Historical Photographs” with the Club.

Yes, this silly little limerick leads into Tonight’s Program, as Tom talked about his and Michelle’s “Airbnb Hosting During a Pandemic.” Nestled in the hillside, across from his residence, is 930 square feet of pure charm, comfort, and serenity, which his Airbnb offers. Founded in 2008, this enchanting little “hideaway,” sometimes known as “Tom’s Cabin,” has offered many people a chance to relax and rejuvenate, while enjoying the breath-taking beauty of the surrounding Naples Hills, and Canandaigua Lake.

The “cabin.” which was built by the Amish, exudes a welcome feeling from every angle. It has a “bridge” that goes to the second floor, and there are decks on both sides, which afford a remarkable view at any time of the year, but one would bet that Autumn, in its glory, must have an unmatchable grandeur! After hearing Tom describe all the lovely features and amenities of the bungalow, such as a hot tub and firepit, one would have to agree that it truly is a “Shangri-La!”

Tom noted that since February, 38 guests have stayed at his Airbnb. Naturally, Covid 19 Guidelines are being followed, but this getaway has offered people a chance to enjoy some peace and privacy. Tom’s and Michelle’s “Little Corner of the Finger Lakes” has nearly a Five-Star rating, and it doesn’t come as any surprise that he has achieved a “Super Host Status!”

Generally, folks spend an average of two nights, and kids are welcome for an extra fee. Small pets are welcome too! Past Presidents, John, Jack, and Bo were summoned to set a “fee” for PP Tom, because apparently he talked a bit over 15 minutes, and it came with a bit of infomercial aura. The fee climbed to $25! Nonetheless, Tom did a splendid job telling us about a great corner of the world during a pandemic!

The Happy Bills and Fines were as follows. We all enjoyed Tom’s refreshing program about his Airbnb. Steve has appreciated the beautiful Fall colors this year, (a nice dividend during these tough times), and the great steaks at Brew and Brats. It was great to see Bill S. this evening, as he has missed some meetings. Carrie’s and Bill’s boys are doing Fall baseball. Skip and Judy are proud of their grandsons. John F. gave a big “thank you” to Steve! Pres. Matt gave a shout out to John F. for covering for Bruce tonight, handling the Facebook Live equipment. BTW, John noted that the World Polio Day is October 24, but our observance will be at a date to be determined.

Steve shared the Rotary Moment this evening. He was reminiscing about the last time our beloved Al Mann was at Camp O., and he remembers him dancing at 102! Now, that is a nice memory for sure! Hope you’ve all been enjoying the exquisite Fall colors this Autumn. What a bonus this has been in our little neck of the woods! Have a great week, everyone, and we’ll see you on the 19^th !