Rotary Log for February 20, 2020
A sunny, brisk winter's day set the stage for the well-attended luncheon. The newly renovated PCC is more welcoming than ever. A smiling PP Ben Wheeler greeted members and visitors. President Leo called the meeting to order, then led the Pledge of Allegiance. Al Lantinen directed the group in song. Ann Bliss offered the invocation.
John Sullivan and Cleo Villaflores
Guests included Matt Mowers, guest of Barbara Miller and John Sullivan, guest of Cleo Villaflores. Also, Karene Wallis (Rick’s bride) and Lara Dubois, invitee of Priscilla MacInnis. Other guests and hosts were Haley Burns and Judith Salisbury (James Petersen) as well as Claudette Barker and Frank Nappo (Aileen Dugan).
Happy Birthday wishes were extended to a long list of February celebrants. Even the founding fathers of our club were acknowledged. Food connoisseur Justin Finn offered up one single/lit cupcake for all to enjoy. Special anniversary honors were bestowed on those celebrating Rotary membership milestones. A whopping 220 years of service to be proud of.
General announcements included a call to attend the upcoming District Training Assembly, New Generations (Interact) event and the March 19th Poetry Hoot. Also plugged were Portsmouth Listens and volunteer opportunities at Crossroads.
Josiah Babcock reminded members that the Communication Committee is updating the club website. He asked for everyone’s support as committee members reach out to confirm info.
Karen Conard and Chris Oberg are on 7-day Notice.
The week’s 50/50 drawing of $53 was claimed by Rotarian Larry Murphy. With no match, the $150 bonus rolls over.
The Executive Director of Pinetree Institute, Dr. Larry McCullough, was the keynote. Larry has been actively involved with our club. A member of our regional steering committee, tackling substance use disorder. Larry was introduced by PP David Underhill. His message: ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) education is a life changer.
To be specific, what happens through stages of life is influenced by experiences that precede them. These experiences also influence health over one’s life span. In helping folks, we need to focus on “what’s happened to you” versus “what’s wrong with you.” The ACEs methodology is powerful. ACEs education can lead to reductions in substance misuse, suicides and many other health challenges.
Our club donated $10,000 in seed money to support a master-trainer program. Regional partners are close to the $20,000 mark in contributions. In the Spring, this initiative will educate almost 900 people on ACEs and trauma-informed care. The program’s effort will clearly show that community engaged folks can make a difference. They can change the future.
President Leo ended the meeting on time. In my humble opinion, probably this was one of the best programs ever. Rotary in motion!!!
Respectfully submitted, Nancy E. Notis
Photos by Tube Loch
