Our first meeting of October started off today, with a bit of joviality, but what a great way to keep our good spirits going, right? We rose to join Pres. Matt in saying The Pledge, and then PP Jack gave The Blessing. Though each of us is unique, and we have our differences, we thank the Heavenly Father for the common bond that we share in being a part of Rotary. We ask His blessing upon us as we endeavor to serve others.

There were 27 members in attendance at today’s meeting, along with 2 members, (John F, and Penny), online. We welcomed guests, Aren Jensen, our program presenter, and his Mom Becca, along with Sharon, wife of Jack, and Margaret, Mom of Jodi. We were safely distanced, of course, but it was great to see such a nice turnout today.

Before the program began, there were a few announcements. Next week, we will have our first Evening Meeting since last March, when the Pandemic set in! Pres. Matt reminded us that we can come at 5:30 for a bit of “socializing,” if we wish, before the Meeting begins at 6:00. Past President Tom will be the speaker for the Evening Meeting, so that is sure to be a delight for all to enjoy.

Matt told us that the opening of school (for the month of September) has gone smoothly. It seems that it has been that way with the Naples Rotary Club so far, meeting “in person” for the last few weeks. Matt reminded us to be diligent, however, in terms of Covid 19. It is important that we continue to exercise caution by wearing our masks, when up and about, and gathering, and implementing safe measures when we are leaving. Our attention to these details will ensure the safety and well-being of all.

Liz gave an excellent summation of the recent Fund-Raising Committee Meeting. Last week, a group of us met, and we came up with a variety of great ideas. It had been a very productive meeting with our having looked at the 20-21 Calendar, in terms of events. Currently, the Committee is investigating ways that we can celebrate “Light Up Naples” in creative, yet safe ways. Liz had spoken to our Mayor, Brian Schenk, and it appears that we can “celebrate” in a safe manner, within our Naples Community, keeping in mind that large crowds must be avoided. The Committee will be meeting again tomorrow, 10/06, to explore ways in which we “can think outside the box."

The Lucky Ducky Derby is approaching! It will take place this coming Saturday, 10/10. Skip has the list of those who have volunteered to help. The stuffing of the ducks will start at 11:00, with the actual “Derby” to take place at 1:00. This year, the “launching” of the ducks will occur at the point where the two streams come together, but of course, this will depend on how much water is “available” at this point. It will “end” by the Digger.

Skip needs some volunteers to help at the Lucky Ducky Derby on 10/10. Jane will be in charge of the “Leader Board”, and she will require a few helpers as well. Thanks to Nancy, Blanche, Laurie, Rose, and Alex, for offering to help.

The Eastern Cities Fellowship Dinner will be virtual this year, due to Covid 19. Pres, Matt would like us to “put on our thinking caps”, to try to come up with some creative ways in which we could “participate” at this year’s dinner.

Today’s Program was brought to us today by Aren Jensen, our Rotary Exchange Student from last year. (Rick Steves, from WXXI, would’ve had a perfect match when it came to a travelogue presentation, as Aren “rose to the occasion” today, with his overview of Brazil!)

Aren began his presentation by speaking a bit of Portuguese, and it is certain that Marty understood him completely, as he himself has had extensive experience in Brazil with his RIT students! Aren, with the accompaniment of his beautiful slides, began to tell us of his year of experience in Brazil, and it is clear to see that Aren gleaned much from that year abroad! Brazil is the 5^th largest country in the world, and it comprises the majority of South America, made up of 26 “states”. The city of Sao Paulo is the economic center of Brazil. It has a large population, - larger than all of Argentina combined! Aren spent his time in the city of Araras, which means “Macaws,”  a species that is literally endangered. Aren’s slides depicted beautiful flowering trees, luscious fountains, and elegant architecture, which was evidenced by the view of the beautiful church. 

Brazil enjoys a great climate throughout the year, with “Winter” being May through August, and ”Summer” being September through April. Though there are storms and flooding at times, the climate is generally great! Aren highlighted the various “physical features” of the country of Brazil. This beautiful country is made up of waterfalls, coastal mountains, plateaus, sugar cane fields, coffee production, coastal mountains, grasslands, (pampas), and 460,000 miles of coast. Aren stated that some areas smelled of coffee and chocolate! How good does that get?

The school setting is very small, it literally was made up of one hallway, with classrooms on the side, noted Aren. The classes are generally small, consisting of between 18-20 students. Aren mentioned that he had his picture taken with another student at the beginning of the school year. Didn’t he see that same picture on billboards along the highway, saying that it was “the best school?"

In spite of  Covid 19, Aren enjoyed his school year, and he learned the language quickly, having been immersed with his Host Families, and acclimated to their way of life. He spent 6 months with his first host family, since he spent only 3 weeks with his second host family. Due to Covid and the advanced ages of the second family, he returned to his first host family. He completed his stay with his third host family, who was very involved in Rotary.

Aren gave us a “little taste” of Brazil, as he highlighted some of the sumptuous food delicacies of the country of Brazil. These tasty treats ranged from “healthy” ice cream to cheesy bread, chocolate balls, cheesy chicken drops, to Brazilian BBQ, not to mention rice and beans with every lunch! Now that sounds delicious, doesn’t it?

In terms of the culture, Aren says that that the people of Brazil are among some of the friendliest people he has met. Their “zest” for life includes a love of soccer (futbol), carnivals and outdoor parties. The diversity of the Brazilians can be seen in their way of life, including their colorful homes! When asked about learning the Portuguese Language, he   admitted that total immersion into his “host families” resulted in his learning the language quickly. Actually, only 4 per cent of the population speaks English.

Aren is bound to do great things in his life, that is for sure! His future plans include enrolling in the University of Barcelona to pursue a career in Business Administration. His most favorable memory of his year of experience in Brazil was of the friendliness and hospitality of the people. Aren, thank you for spending time with us today, you are truly a young ambassador of our country, and an example of the promise that our youth holds for the betterment of the world!

Today’s Happy Bills (and Fines) were centered on the delight we experienced upon hearing of Aren’s year in Brazil. Frank noted the great “plug” Mike J. gave for Naples on the local news. Jodi was glad to have her Mom with her today. She has also been a great help at the Café. Bruce and Betty are back with us, yeah! Pres. Matt said that this was part of the “Rotary Story…” We all work together to bring about good results!

The Rotary Moment was stellar today! Immediate Past President, Tom, produced the Gavel! (No more fines impending for Pres. Matt, thank goodness!) Also, PP Tom reflected upon watching John French in the production area. It reminded him of a “young JHB III”! Finally, PP Tom presented President Matt with a Rotary Citation for this past year for Naples Rotary’s tenacity during this most challenging year!

It has been wonderful to see many members “in person” these last few weeks! We look forward to hearing from our own Tom Hawks at next week’s Evening Meeting! Have a great week, everyone! Be thankful for our blessings, as we relish these beautiful Fall days. See you on the evening of October 12^th!