Logo for: Rotary Old Saybrook

OS Rotary Meeting 11/08/23

Pledge: Alan Schwarz
Prayer:  John Aforismo
Four Way Test: Alan Schwarz

Raffle: J. Perruccio, J. Manfredi, and three guests.

Happy Bucks: Many for the students, teachers, administrators, parents, and the Rotary. John and Gary were happy for their River Cruise trip in France and the start of the UCONN Basketball season.

Program: Student of the Month – Math

L-R: Trevor Jones (Westbrook HS), Stella Geronimo (Lyme-Old Lyme HS), Marissa Astur (Old Saybrook HS)

  Superintendent of Schools, Jan Perruccio, reviewed the history of the SOM Award, its involvement with the Polio-Plus Program and the opportunities for student participation in The Rotary. She then introduced the student, teachers and the administrators from each school district.

Westbrook High School: Trevor Jones
Principal, Ms. Winch, and teacher, Mr. Hanssen, described Trevor as the student who is at the top of his class, a member of the NHS, the INTERACT Club and one who exemplifies “Service Above Self”. They noted his exceptional leadership skills both in the classroom and on the athletic fields. Trevor “raises the bar” in the classroom with his work ethic, communication skills and his willingness to help his classmates. Trevor plans to study Aerospace Engineering.

Lyme/Old Lyme High School: Stella Geronimo
Assistant Principal, Ms. Manfredi, and teacher Ms. Leen, described Stella as a student who has not only won many academic awards but is also a member of the NHS and the SNHS. She volunteers at a local hospital and is an accomplished musician. She is an active participant in class discussions and goes above and beyond in her commitment to helping her fellow students. Stella is a valuable member of the Math Team. In her spare time, she earned a Black Belt in martial arts. Stella plans on studying Biochemistry with a career in Public Health Science.

Old Saybrook High School: Marissa Astur
Principal, Mr. Anastasio, and teacher, Ms. Barnes, noted that Marissa has taken at least nine AP courses and is a National Merit Scholar. She is the stage manager for Drama Productions, tutors other students, and is well known for her ability to spread happiness throughout the school community. As far as her Math ability goes, Ms. Barnes says, “I always check my answer key with Marissa’s test. She is never wrong and I’ve been to known to make a few mistakes”. Marissa will be studying Biological Science with a goal of entering a Pre-med Program.

Reports and Announcements:

   Marty provided an update on the Torchlight Parade being held on December 9th. Gary has volunteered to supervise the donation and pick-up of the food for the marchers. Gary has a list of potential donors. Contact Gary if you would like to help.

   Commodities Exchange: Gary and Pat S. will be meeting with Carl Fortuna to discuss possible safety concerns as well as the Rotary’s liability. Thank you Sheila, for producing and displaying the professional signs that will organize the drop off procedure.

   Evening Meetings: Starting in January, our first Wednesday meeting will be at 6:00pm at the VFW. The second Wednesday meeting will be at 7:00am at Saybrook Point. The third and fourth meetings will be at NOON at the VFW. The fifth meeting of the month will be an evening meeting at a site TBD.

   Golf Tournament: Next year’s golf outing will be held at Fox Hopyard on Sept. 9, 2024.

   District Foundation Meeting: Nancy will give a full report at the next meeting. She was impressed with our students who participated. They were excited about participating in future Rotary activities and had some interesting ideas for Rotary involvement in a reading project.

   Outreach: The Club voted to donate $1,000 to Special Olympics this year. Maui Relief Fund will conclude next week. Final totals will be announced at the next meeting. It looks like we are going to reach our $10,000 goal!! Congrats to the Committee and all those who volunteered and donated.

Next meeting: November 15 at NOON at the VFW.