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Rotary Log for Aug 10, 2017 By Al Lantinen Photos by Sara Treacy President Ben opened the meeting by asking John Rice to sing the song. Nothing unusual there, except that John protested he was already doing the blessing. That drew a collective laugh. “I know,” Ben replied. “I forgot to ask someone to sing.” So John did both—possibly a Rotary first. Ben called out Kevin Shultz for his hard work in improving our Adopt-a-Spot in downtown Portsmouth. It really does look great again! Guests and visiting Rotarians were introduced and birthdays announced. Seems like half our membership was born in July or August! Leo Gagnon asked all to set aside August 28, from 5-7 for our Rotary Social. It will be an evening sail out on the Piscataqua aboard the Gundalow. More info is forthcoming, but I can state from experience, it’s a great trip. Dennis Moulton recapped the Rotary Cross Country race, thanking all volunteers for their hard work. Leonard Seagren plugged the Parade of Sails that took place last Sunday. He predicted it would be quite a sight and it was! Happy dollars were collected but, so far, July seems happier than August. John Lyons won the raffle at $46, no match. Our program began with Ramona Dow reviewing the work of the Basic Needs Committee. It’s good to be reminded of the many non-profits we support through this worthy group. To mention only two: Operation Warm Coat delivered more than 100 warm coats to children and adults. The peanut butter drive sent 311 jars and $510 to area food banks. Many non-profits are now benefiting from a stream-lined grants application process on our improved website. The committee suggests and the BOD agrees that we align ourselves with a single non- profit, changing each year. This will permit us to raise our awareness of an individual non-profit. Further, it affords us additional volunteer opportunities! This year’s non-profit of choice is the Richie McFarland Children’s Center. Richie Board member Beverly Hudson presented an overview and a personal view of the Center. The main thrust there is the individual assessment and treatment of children with developmental delays or disabilities. Early intervention has been shown to be essential in maximizing each child’s potential. At home assessments are done from birth to age three. Physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy are provided according to an established plan of care. Outreach programs at libraries, children’s centers and parenting groups educate and inform the community about early childhood development. We are proud to be associated with Richie McFarland Children’s Center. Respectfully submitted, Al Lantinen |
