Meeting to Order:  President Gary called the meeting to order and led us in the flag salute.

Invocation:  Delivered by Maureen.

Visiting Rotarians:  Shannon (“Beer Man”), Terrell and Orphalee (ADG) Smith

Guests:  Ken’s guest, Dale Holt and Randy’s guests, Gary Tetrick and Matt  Dorsch and Tim’s guest and wife of our presenter, Harriet Barberi.

Birthdays:  Dan Baker (1-11) and Rotary Anniversary for Nancy T.  (Jan. 5th 2006)  Congrats to both! 

 

Returning Rotarians: We were all returning from our holiday “break”.  Gary T. returned from Colorado.  Brian returned from San Antonio where he and Jody enjoyed the “Alamo Bowl.”  Maureen enjoyed herself in Pennsylvania with family and Max returned from a trip to Colville with his Father-in-law.

 

Announcements: Orphalee began the announcements with her pride for all Whatcom County Rotary Clubs.  Julie announced that the invoices for meals are being sent.  RYLA will be April 26-29 and we need candidates.  Candidates must be between 18 and 25 and can be related to Rotarians.  Rocky is having foot surgery and will miss some meetings according to Ken, who said Rocky hurt his foot by kicking someone without his shoes on.  (This editor happens to know that Rocky is having foot surgery just because he is old!)    Eric and Susie expressed their thanks for the holiday tips.  Tim V had disparaging things to say to those who had not read his whole email pertaining to the wine tasting fundraiser on 1-11-12 at Sound Beverage.  Anyone is welcome to attend and order wine.  Starts at 5:30 and there will be an 18% “kickback” to the club.  RSVP to Tim at his email address. Marlene and Julie reminded everyone of the Jewelry Party to be held at Metcalf/Hodges Bldg. on Jan 30.  Starts at 5:30, adult beverages and snacks will be provided.  Bring friends and spouses and “associates” will be on hand to help you pick out Valentine’s gifts.  (Rocky’s daughter, Sylvia and Marlene’s daughter, Allison are the sales people and they will donate 25% back to the club.)  

 

Happy Bucks:  Brian, Ken and Scott sat at an unhappy table and had to be forced to think of good things.  Brian (with no $) found the Alamo bowl to be fun and San Antonio people very friendly.  Ken was $5 happy for 2012 and never thought he would live this long.  Scott looked like he was faking his “unhappiness.”  Bill G. was happy for traditions that prevail…namely table seats and he was happy for today’s speaker.  He also wanted people to know that if Vets needed a memory box, they were welcome to come to his shop.  Max noted that accountants may need a life.  He invested in a “Smart TV” and wonderful remote.  Sharon was also happy for her smart TV and noted she was able to set hers up by herself.  Julie’s TV cost $60 to reprogram so grandparents were warned.  Greg T had $10 for a good holiday and no broken bones in 2011.  He was also happy to celebrate 10 years in his own office without being shut down.  Maureen was happy that Tim had arranged the wine fundraiser and was also happy to have spent the holidays with her little nephew.  Pete R was happy for a good Christmas and Chuck also enjoyed visiting with family.  Dan P had $10 for his 10th anniversary “that [he] did not see coming!”  Marlene was happy that her granddaughter will be born this week and another one is due in August!  $120 and Jake is not sure why he’s happy.  He figured his life has been good, so maybe he will be good.  Tim V. threw in an IOU for his make-up on Randy’s boat, and to Rick for all his help on the website.  Gary T. was happy to see his grandkids in Colorado.  Laurie was glad she didn’t get a smart TV and threw in $20 for the Rose bowl and the Duck’s success. 

 

Finemaster:  Max Legg fined Jake for his memory.  Anyone wearing short sleeves.  Anyone who drank Crusin’ Coffee for the social media of writing on the cups.  Randy was fined because his guest arrived earlier than he did.  Maureen and Marlene for not only having the same names, but sitting next to each other.  Gary was fined for surprising Orphalee, but Gary made Orphalee pay the fine.  Sharon was fined because she knew how to pronounce Krzysiek and Mel was fined for commenting on the “lady mayor” of B’ham. 

Banners:  Chuck saw the word “new” in every banner and figured out it represented the New Year.

 

Program:  A very interesting program by John Barberi, describing his distinguished military career which began in the Merchant Marines and ended some 23 years later retiring from the U.S. M. C.  John informed us of his many adventures on the high seas as well as the rules of enlistment.  We thank you John, not only for the presentation, but for a career of service!

 

Drawing:  Tyler drew 5 of Spades…the pot grows!