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Rotary Log for November 17, 2016
By Suzanne Rapoza
Photos by: Jim Rini
President James brought the meeting to order as Al Lantinen led us in song. New member and greeter, Ashley then led us in the Four Way test. Reverend Allen gave the invocation.
Guests to this week’s meeting included Ryan Borden, Jerry Hillard and Karen Kindle. Gary Konicsberg was put on seven day notice and Andy Chase received applause celebrating five years in Rotary.
James thanked Neal Ouellett, Janice Wood, Dave Underhill and Bob Herold as 100 for 100 coordinators. Stanford Cross was also thanked for coordinating the color guard and Taps during last week’s meeting. James then read aloud the heartfelt letter of gratitude that was sent from Peggy Nelson and her family. Rotarian donations to Peggy’s family will be used for a bench at the cemetery in her granddaughter Jillian’s name.
Then the meeting moved onto club announcements. Janice Cassidy let us all know that this year’s ornament is now available. This season it depicts the new Sarah Long Bridge and costs $15…
Cleo asked everyone to be sure to sign up for tree sales….
Leo announced that a Holiday Kickoff event is being held at Mombo November 29th. It promises to be a fun filled evening before we all start shopping and gift wrapping!
Finally Ben Wheeler reminded us again that we are entering the “enforcement phase” for tree sign ups. Changes to tree sales this year include a now “pipped out” trailer and new birdseed wreathes available for sale. The communication committee will be giving out stickers and putting up posters around town to promote tree sales.
Happy Dollars were back and there was much to be happy about! The highlight of happy dollars was when Judy sang. The raffle winner this week was Walter’s crew and they also won the $350 bonus!
Dave Holden then introduced the speaker, Scott Lombardo. Scott gave an inspirational presentation about the veteran martial arts program, V MAT, which he founded. Scott is a 6th degree black belt in American Isshinryu Karate under Grand Master Ernie Temple. He earned his 6th degree black belt in New Jersey. That was before moving to the Seacoast and “paying it forward” by creating this much needed non-profit organization. Scout wanted to offer Martial Arts instruction to amputee students, the wheelchair bound and vets suffering from PTSD, stroke or traumatic brain injury. To do that, he spent years re-designing Isshinryu to meet these varying needs.
When a veteran returns home from battle, the transition process can be very difficult. The camaraderie, discipline and balance required in Martial Arts training is similar to what is needed to handle the stress of daily life. Scott’s students learn about the benefits that Martial Arts can have on the human mind, psyche and behavior. Terminology during class is taught in Japanese. He has seen this technique improve the speaking abilities of those with traumatic brain injury. Classes are taught every Tuesday night at the Community Campus in Portsmouth. Instruction is 100 percent free for all veterans. What Scott and his team do for the veterans of the Seacoast is as incredible as it is invaluable!
Respectfully submitted, Suzanne Rapoza
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