There was a nice turn-out of 34 members, plus five guests, at today’s Noon Meeting on this somewhat gloomy October day. Nevertheless, vivid colors are beginning to fill the Naples Valley, and it is a pretty place to call home! President Tom beckoned us to rise, and recite The Pledge with him, as Jack chose God Bless America to lead us in song. The Blessing was given by Patrice, and our guests were announced by Laurie. They included the program presenters, Gordon Estey and Sueann Townsend, along with Chris, Sharon, and Karin.

Seeing that it is the beginning of the month, the October Birthdays and Anniversaries were observed. Led by Jack, we sang a heartfelt round of “Congratulations” to Marty, Jamie, and Diane for each having a birthday this month, and to Warren and Roberta for their anniversary.

Per Pres. Tom’s request, we applauded fellow member, John French, who, being a very busy man, waltzed into the meeting a tad bit late. Tom then proceeded to show a short video clip of John, who was busy at work, promoting Arbor Hill wines, of course! Also, a picture of a T-shirt in memory of JHB III was shown. There had been a celebration at Randall-Standish Vineyards as a tribute to him. Tom shared a letter from Judy, thanking Naples Rotary for the flowers we had sent. We wish her a speedy recovery! Guest, Karin Bowersock spoke next. The BVT is announcing its Summer Season on 10/26. All are welcome!  The Fall For The Arts is ongoing, with the Fiddlers of the Genesee being featured this weekend.

In terms of “What’s Happening?”, Tom highlighted some upcoming Club Calendar dates. One special event on the roster is the Joint Club Picnic, coming up on the 15^th. Be sure to get your money to Skip if you plan to attend! The Camp O. Dinner will be on 10/19. The World Polio Day will be 10/24. John F. spoke briefly about this event. This will be our 3^rd World Polio Day Observance, and it will again be held at Brew and Brats. We are encouraged to bring a dish to pass, along with friends, while B and B will offer liquid refreshments. It will start at 5:00, and it will be livestreamed, as well.

Today’s Program featured Gordon Estey and Sueann Townsend, who represent the “New Theatre in the Finger Lakes” which will now be known as the Fort Hill Performing Arts Center. This mid-sized theatre is being constructed from the auditorium at the former Canandaigua Academy. Renovations are currently taking place, as the renderings of the completed facility were available for us to view.

The completion of the facility will include the installation of over 400 seats, and it is scheduled to open in January of 2020! Viewing the floor plan of the newly-renovated area, it was clear to see that the FHPAC will be well-equipped, with many amenities, including an historical memorabilia display area, as Gordon told us. He is the Stage Operations Manager, while Sueann is the Executive Director. There will be a part-time bookkeeper as well, thus the FHPAC will be lightly staffed.

Sueann said that the “word is getting around”, and that artistic events are being planned for the new theatre. She stated that many regional organizations need a space this size, and the FHPAC is “filling a niche”. Sueann added that there is currently a “seat campaign”, and donors can purchase a seat. Plans for the theatre include having much equipment available, so that organizations won’t have to travel with so much gear. There are 14 weeks of events already planned! Indeed, this new mid-sized theatre will certainly have a positive impact on our region! Many thanks to Gordon and Sueann for visiting us today, and for telling us about this wonderful new facility!