Rotary Log: March 20, 2014 (Interact)

President Dave began the meeting some introductory comments, the Pledge of Allegiance and Four-Way Test.   In honor of Spring, John Rice began the meeting by beginning the Club performance of “Take me out to the Ball Game.” 

President Dave noted that the first day of Spring will occur during the meeting today which commanded some applause.   It was official at 12:57pm.   As an aside, the weather was New England Spring-ish; mostly cloudy, bits of sun, mid 40s.

Guests were announced, which included numerous Interact students, a visiting Rotarian and potential new member, Monica Shepard.

A reminder about the Club Service event on April 19^th was made –if you’d like to help with the softball field, please sign up soon.

A reminder was also given about the upcoming District Assembly, which can be attended in Westbrook.   This is a great opportunity for Committee Chairs, directors and new members to learn more about Rotary’s effort to develop the clubs and secure new members.  Contact Dave to get on the list, and note that contrary to popular belief regarding no free lunches, this opportunity comes with a free lunch.

Justin Finn announced that the Thunderchicken Road Race Committee was meeting after lunch.  See Justin if you’re interested in working on the Committee but missed today’s meeting.

Happy dollars were followed by an introduction to the Interact attendees.   Two members of Interact presented on the success of the Crush Can project (raised $600 for the American Heart Association), and the current Book Drive project that will run through April.

Another Interact member presented on his experience with RYLA, and how he would be a counselor this year, while another Interact member would be an attendee.   President Dave asked Ben Wheeler, RYLA Alumni, to stand at the end of this presentation and stated that “This is what RYLA grows up to be!”

President Dave then noted that the planned speaker was stuck in ice and unable to make the trip to the meeting.    Hopefully the Club will hear the presentation by the New Generations Program at some later date. 

Filling the time, President Dave offered information on the Youth Services offered or supported by Rotary.  It was noted that between Rotaract, Interact, RYLA, Little League, the Jeremy Alex Foundation, Girls Inc., scholarships and other efforts, Rotary funds more than $58,000.00 to youth services and programs.   That’s an impressive figure.  

The meeting closed with a raffle winner, but no match for the $500 bonus.

See you next week.