Logo for: Rotary Old Saybrook

OS Rotary Meeting 03/11/26

Meeting Greeter: Tara Winch

Pledge of Allegiance, Four Way Test, and Prayer: Tara Winch
Sergeants Report: Mary and Marty
Raffle Winners: Gerry Carlone, Teacher; Tim Ferraina, Student; Tara Winch, ??
Happy Bucks: Most were for the students, teachers, administrators, and parents. Others were for the Rotary Club and all that we do students and the community. Some for the surprise Spring like weather we are having. Do not forget the UConn women’s and men’s basketball teams!

Student of the Month: Technology

L-R: Meredith Thompson (Last weeks SOM for World Language, Lyme-Old Lyme)
Technology: Kyle Litevich (Westbrook), Timothy Ferraina (Old Saybrook), Alexander Glaras (Lyme-Old Lyme)

Ms. Winch listed the criteria for the award, explained its link to the International PolioPlus Project and then introduced the students, teachers, and administrators. 

Timothy Ferraina: Old Saybrook High School
     Principal, Mr. Anastasio, and teacher, Mr. Carlone, described Tim as a kind and thoughtful person as well as a quiet and effective leader. In the classroom, he is the “problem solver”. Tim only chooses projects that he knows will challenge him. Do not be fooled by his serious work ethic, his quick wit will surprise you! Outside of the classroom, Tim is involved with anything “outdoors”. During the summer months, he is a youth counselor for a camp in Maine. He is on the baseball team and enjoys other “outdoor sports”. Tim plans on attending Central Connecticut State University and becoming a Tech Ed. Teacher. 

Kyle Litevich: Westbrook High School
     Assistant Principal, Ms. Gallagher, and teacher, Mr. Pessoni, described Kyle as a dedicated and independent learner. One who thoroughly enjoys “taking an original idea and seeing it through to the end”. He is on the baseball team and last season was the proud recipient of the “There is no I in Team Award.” Kyle’s goal is to become a heavy equipment operator. He will be joining the Operator Engineer’s Union with the goal of starting his own business. 

Alexander Glaras: Lyme/Old Lyme High School
     Assistant Principal, Mr. Bushnell, and teacher, Mr. Derry, described Alex as a well-rounded student. He is a National Merit Scholarship finalist, a member of the State Championship Crew Team, a recognized scholar-athlete, and an Eagle Scout. His Eagle Project involved the construction of an outdoor theater at Rocky Neck State Park. His true passion is the Robotics Team. As captain of the team, Alex leads by example, eager to share his problem-solving ability and his machining skills. Alex plans on attending college in the Fall where he “can play around with big machines”.

Meredith Thompson: Lyme/Old Lyme High School; World Language
     Assistant Principal, Mr. Bushnell, and teacher, Mr. Wang, described Meredith as a “quiet powerhouse”. Her course work includes many AP courses, she is President of the Chinese Honor Society, and participates in all of the Drama and Musical productions. In the classroom, she is a very positive influence on her fellow students. In addition, her outstanding work ethic and logical approach to problem solving make Meredith an excellent role model. She has been accepted to the University of Connecticut’s School of Engineering where she will focus on Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering.

Agenda Items

New Member Induction: The Club welcomes Cary Wallach as its newest member. Cary has recently retired and is looking for ways to become involved in the community.

Wine Tasting Event: Pete and Marty provided updates on the event to be held on April 10th. See Marty for more tickets and Pete for auction items. The big push starts now!!!

President Elect Leadership Training: Nancy, Pete, and John provided a summary of “lessons learned” at the recent training session. Networking with other Clubs was the most important take away from the conference.

Outreach: The Club approved a $250 donation to the Goodwin School PTO’s Walkathon Fundraiser.

Harbor News: Check out the full-page article about Rotary’s upcoming events. Thanks, Joan. Job well done!   

Four Way Speech Contest: Semi-finals on 3/21; Finals on 4/11. See Joan or Chip for details or to volunteer.

Committee Chairs: Please submit your budget requests for next year’s budget to Kathy by March 25.

Next Meeting at Noon on 3/18. This will be a Zoom only meeting. Bill Tait from Essex Financial will be our speaker.