06/01/18 Bits & Pieces

President Don Zillman opened the meeting by welcoming 52 members, 1 visiting Rotarians and 6 guests. He called on Julie L’Heureux for the invocation which focused on mentoring. After the Pledge of Allegiance, Past President Russ Burleigh led us on the keyboard with the singing of 'God Bless America.' President Don introduced visiting guests and Rotarians (including assistant Rotary District Governor Bill Anderson) and also made note of the June Rotarian birthdays and anniversaries in the club.

Mike Fortunato (lobster, steak or chicken) brought us up-to-date on our major fundraiser, the Maine Outdoor Challenge, scheduled for the beginning of next week in Freeport. His focus was the meal choice at the dinner on Wednesday and whether those attending had made their choices. Basically, if you haven’t passed on your wishes directly or by way of your team leader, you’re getting lobster.
 

Casey Hartford from Big Brothers Big Sisters spoke about the mentoring program and made a special request for male mentors, since they have 19 boys ready to be matched up with mentors. It takes only an hour a week to become a Big Brother or Big Sister and the need is great. Call 207-773-5437 or visit www.somebigs.org to volunteer.
 

Past President Laura Young talked about the reading program at Lyseth School in Portland and the need for volunteers on Tuesdays and Thursdays, July 5th through August 9th. Contact Laura directly (lyoung@mainecf.org) for more information about this opportunity to “get more than you give.”

Past President Dick Hall, as a follow up to his recent email sent to members, spoke about the Rotary Foundation and the importance of giving an annual contribution. He requested that every member of the club make a donation to the Foundation. Dick was also the subject of a friendly tease by Assistant District Governor Bill Anderson for having misplaced the “Pyramid of Peace Award” at the District Conference. This award was for the club’s efforts in meeting all six Rotary Areas of Focus. So that it wouldn’t be lost again, Bill – with a good natured grin – presented the award directly to President Don.

Erik Jorgensen was made a Paul Harris Fellow +2. Club members stood and applauded this outstanding achievement. Congratulations, Erik!

(Photo L-R: Erik Jorgensen and Past President Dick Hall.)
 

(Photo L-R: Dave Putnam, Zoleka Mngqibisa, and Director Kevin Stilphen)

Dave Putnam introduced Director Kevin Stilphen, who introduced our Youth Service Award recipient from Portland Arts and Technology High School (PATHS), Zoleka Mngqibisa. After listening to her many accomplishments, it was clear that this recognition was well deserved.

The weekly Rotary raffle was conducted by Tom Nickerson and Past President Bob Traill graciously picked the Ace of hearts – leaving the sum to be even larger next week. Sorry Bob!

(Photo L-R: Past President Bob Traill and Tom Nickerson.)