Logo for: Rotary Old Saybrook

OS Rotary Meeting 06/10/26

Pledge of Allegiance/Prayer by Gary McCauley
Raffle Winners: Chip A, Charlie R and Nancy M
Happy Bucks: Members shared gratitude for the beautiful day, visiting family, outgoing
and incoming Rotary officers, a trip to France, hope for New York Knicks win, and
tonight’s Concert on the Green.
Introduction of Guest: Joan Winters introduced Pat Wylie. Pat returned to live in Old
Saybrook, where he lived previously and was active in the community. He is interested
in renewing his community involvement. All welcomed him.
Presidents Report: Jan Perruccio
End-of-Year Goals Wrap-Up: Jan reviewed the established 2025–2026 goals and
asked participants to work in groups to assess whether the goals were met and identify
ways to move forward in the 2026–2027 fiscal year. Each table spent 15–20 minutes
discussing goal progress and developing ideas and strategies for the year ahead.
Feedback was that food insecurity was well addressed during food drives, ongoing participation in Meals-on-Wheels, new Estuary Oven, Thanksgiving Turkey drive, Thanksgiving Food Basket
     Food Distributions. Food insecurity is still an issue and ideas for collection on non-perishable food during meetings, food drives during summer when population is higher and working with local food pantries to stock outdoor distribution cabinets for those who cannot come during the times the food pantry is open. Also, exploring summer feeding program with OS Social Services is another potential opportunity.
     Literacy was addressed during Day of Service, Dictionary Program and Reading
Program. There are opportunities to teach English as a second language, to explore
more mentoring opportunities within the school system to encourage multi-generational
reading sessions. Another Literacy Day is planned but with locations/times that are
more convenient for children and families.
     Jan collected the information formulated and will collate into accomplishments and
ongoing goals.
     New Officer Inductions – June 22 at The Kate 6 PM: Jan asked attendees to submit payment. All arrangements for the evening’s venue have been finalized.
Update – Sergeant-at-Arms: Officers will move forward with selection decision about a candidate for this position.

Macaroni Dinner Update: John Aforismo
No new update currently.
Scholarships: Charlie Renshaw reported that 11 graduating high school seniors will
each receive a $3,000 scholarship: six from Westbrook High School, two from Old Lyme
High School, and three from Old Saybrook High School. The presentations will be done
at each schools' respective award ceremony.
2026–2027 Dues: Annual dues are $240 and are due at the June 10 or June 17
meeting, or by mail. Confirming how many members will continue with Rotary is
important for determining the Rotary International contribution.
Summer Concert: First concert tonight - June 10. Martha has asked all who are on the
team to arrive by 6 PM for set-up.
New Business:
     The Coat Drive recently held was successful and provided about 40 new coats, as well as hats, scarves, and gloves for children; it was agreed the coat drive should be continued.
     Raffle: Last year’s e-bike raffle was successful. John and Gary proposed a raffle this year featuring gas and grocery gift cards: $2,000 for groceries redeemable at any store
nationwide and $250 for gas. The goal is to sell 2,000 tickets at $10 each, with a potential profit of $15,000. This plan was approved by the club membership.
     Arts and Craft Fair: Chairpersons are Jan Perruccio and Nancy Morin
Upcoming Events:

  • July 12: An awards night for Rotary Clubs will be held in Norwich. All interested in
    attending should contact Nancy Morin
  • October 3: District Rotary Meeting in New London. It includes a high-speed boat ride to an island location along the river.

Meeting adjourned. Next meeting June 17 Noon VFW