Pledge: Gary McCauley
Prayer: Pete Zucco
4-Way Test: Gary McCauley
Raffle Winners: Joan M, Susan, Alan
Card Game Winner: Kathy C
Gary ran the meeting in place of Pat Devito who has moved to Maryland. Gary started by asking for a moment of silence for 2 members who recently passed away, Bob Antoniac and Ken Roche. They did a lot for Rotary and they will be missed. Gary thanked everyone involved in the planning of the meeting which included bringing in a great buffet dinner with lots of choices. John Giannini is stepping down as club secretary and Joan Michaud has turned over the chair position of Outreach taken over by Tara Winch. Gary thanked them for their outstanding service. Welcome to our District Governor, Tari Marshall-Day who is also stepping down from her position. Gary said that Tari was DG during his rein as president and has been involved in our club's activities and needs.
Tari spoke about the need for Rotary more than ever. Rotary has been around now for 118 years. Women have been allowed since 1988 (not that long ago). The theme for next year is "Embracing Hope" and the new DG is Christene Freedman. Tari talked about our club and how adaptable we have been with people stepping up when needed. When Pres. Pat Devito moved, Alan Schwarz took over and does a fine job! This is an example of Club Service - taking care of its members. Rotary went from 4 to 5 Avenues of Service last year. The new Avenue of Service is Youth Services - helping the future of our kids. Rotary is different now but the spirit of service remains the same. Laima Nori is also stepping down as Assistant District Governor due to her new job. Tari thanked us all for what we do and to stay in touch with the district for any help needed.
Alan said he was glad to take over for Pat Devito saying he has a lot of help and this is a great group and its an honor to lead as President! We have had 3 new members join since he took over, Kathy, Sue and Debra. Though he urges members to come to the meetings, it isn't mandatory and there is no longer a minimum attendance requirement. You will get a lot out of the meetings however. Alan would like to see Rotary signage in Old Saybrook, Old Lyme and Westbrook - the towns we serve.
Time for cake!
