Meeting Date: Feb 23
Reporter: Don Saracen
INSPIRATION: Mary Brewster
February 23, 1905, was the date of the very first Rotary meeting. Paul Harris, Gustavus Loehr, Silvester Schiele, and Hiram Shorey gathered at Loehr's office in Room 711 of the Unity Building in downtown Chicago.The anniversary is known as “World Peace and Understanding Day.” On that day, clubs "pause, plan and promote the Rotary's continuous quest for goodwill, peace and understanding among people of the world."
ANNOUNCEMENTS, Etc.
Holly showed us how to make Kim Dumpson’s Rotary recipe for Mimosas. Which stands for Members Interested in Meaningful Opportunities for Service Above Self. Fill a glass half chilled Orange juice, half with your favorite champagne, garnish with Orange slice and Rosemary. This is to celebrate Rotary’s 116th Birthday.
President Bryan recognized George Babcock for his vision and leadership with our Literacy Initiative. Our partnership with the Providence Public Schools. George thanked his team members.
Bryan also recognized Art for his multiple Paul Harris awards.
Mary announced two ideas for socializing online. Wine & Painting or a trivia night. If members are interested contact Mary.
HAPPY BUCKS
Margaret $5 for Don because he announced her surgery which was successful.
George $50 for the results of his four year CAT scan which he’s now Cancer Free! Margaret put in an extra $5 for his good news.
Don $5 for Margaret reminding everyone of days when she directed our talent shows.
Jim $5 remembering the talent show performing whose on First with his 9yr old son. Also he’s picking up two signed books from last weeks speakers and donated $100 in the Alley’s name.
Pete $5 for George for his freedom from cancer and the tribute Bryan presented to him
Rob $5 for picking up books from the Alley’s and for getting his first COVID shot
Mary $5 Happy Bucks for her first COVID shot and for her opening at the ART Club
Barry $5 who stopped by the ART Club to see Mary’s wonderful art work
Liz $10 healthy bucks for Maury for successful treatment
Richard $20 for George, Maury and all the vaccinated members, and looking forward to his first shot soon.
Karen $5 for her husband getting his first vaccine. Congrat’s everyone for getting theirs.
PROVIDENCE AND GONDOLAS:
PERFECT FOR EACH OTHER
Our guest speaker, Matthew “Marcello” Haynes, is the owner of La Gondola, the classic Venetian experience in the Renaissance City. Known to his crew as “ll Boss”.
As a college rower looking for a summer job he was hired and fell in love with gondolas. After eight seasons working for his former employers he purchased the business. Being a history major he’s visited Venice numerous times to understand the history and the time honored customs.
Marcello has a well trained professional crew. He described how he’s worked with the tourism industry in Providence to provide locals and tourists alike a relaxing and enjoyable experience. And yes he sings at every opportunity. And will provide music if the patrons so desire.
The conditions on the river, the complete renovation of the city of Providence and its strong ties to the Italian culture, & the magic of WaterFire make the gondolas perfect for this place. We lend authenticity to the city, and it lends authenticity to us.”
