Logo for: Rotary Old Saybrook

OS Rotary Meeting 02/11/26

Meeting Greeter: Tara Winch
Pledge of Allegiance, Four Way Test, and Prayer: Tara Winch
Sergeants Report:
     Raffle Winners: Charlie R., Kathy, and Susan
     Happy Bucks:  Many were for the students, parents, and educators. Others were for the beautiful day, the “heat wave,” new members, and our guests.
     
Guest: Kevin Andersen

Program: Student of the Month – World Language
Tara Winch reviewed the history of the Student of the Month and the Rotary Club’s connection to the PolioPlus project. She then introduced the students, faculty, and the administrators from each school district.

Old Saybrook High School: Joao Victor Contin
Associate Principal, Mr. Plotkin, and teacher, Ms. Zumbaum, described JV as a student with high character, a strong moral compass, and a genuine care for others. He is known as a “fighter”, not afraid to stand up for what is right and his fellow students. In addition to a challenging selection of courses, which include AP and Independent Studies, JV is a member of the Soccer and Crew teams and a member of the Jazz Band. He also plays Mr. Plotkin’s favorite instrument, the accordion! JV plans to attend college next year with a goal of becoming a Physician.

Westbrook High School: Heloisa Goncalves Oliveir
Principal, Mr. Talmadge, and teacher, Ms. Ferro, described Heloisa as an excellent student dedicated to learning. At the present time, she is taking 4 AP Classes, 2 UConn Classes, and 2 Honors Classes! She entered the eighth grade with limited ability in the English Language. Through hard work and incredible drive to succeed, she overcame this challenge and became the “student that thrives in our school community”. Helosia plans on attending college next Fall enrolling in a Nursing Program.

Agenda

Induction of New Member: Tony Sharillo was formally inducted into the Rotary Club. He said that already he feels “valued and welcomed”. We look forward to working with Tony for years to come.

Chip Adams provided updates on the Four Way Speech Contest (4/25) and the RYLA Leadership Conference (4/11). See Chip for details.

Wine and Beer Tasting: Marty and Pete with an update. Reminder to fill out the proper forms for the auction items and the sponsorships and return them as soon as possible. April 10th is just around the corner – sell those tickets! Joan then gave some valuable tips on how to convince people to become donors or sponsors.

Outreach: Tara read a thank you note from SCORE. They really appreciated our annual sponsorship.

The Donald A. Adams Outstanding Rotarian Award: This award is given to a Rotarian who has had a meaningful and lasting impact on the Club and our District. See Jan P. for nominating details.

A new oven, at the Estuary, has been installed and is working. Meals on Wheels is happy again. Joan displayed the plaque which will be installed at the Park and Rec Center. The plaque will annually recognize outstanding achievement.

Next meeting: 4/18 at the Cuckoo’s Nest at noon. Speaker: Cindy Carrasquilla from Goodwill