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The Program: VP of Programs Laurie introduced Michael Desplaines as the Rotarian of the Day. She gave some great fun facts about Michael. One of those fun facts is that Michael's first language is French. Michael introduced our speakers of the day –Joey Rothgery and Sigur Whitaker. Joey and Sigur presented on their trip to Lake Como, Italy in September 2019. The trip Gardens of Italy was organized by Norfolk Botanical Garden. Michael was the tour escort. Joey and Sigur shared beautiful pictures and tales of their adventures. Included in their presentation were pictures of palaces, villas, gardens, and even some Italian eye-candy (thanks, ladies). The area they visited is known as the Lake District and is surrounded by the breathtaking Italian Alps. Their adventures began in Milan and ended in Florence. The trip was filled with fun excursions including a water taxi on Lake Como where they traveled by George and Amal Clooney’s Villa; a steep walk up in Moltrasio with Michael’s mother; a balsamic vinegar tasting; a trip to Isola Bella (island) where Sigur, Joey, and Michael declared they were having a Rotary meeting. They visited several gardens and saw many beautiful flowers and trees including: Wedding Cake, Dove, and Monkey Puzzle. They ate a lot of delicious meals and sweets, and walked several miles every day which ensured they didn't gain a pound. In closing, Joey and Sigur shared a picture of their final evening. The picture featured Michael who was all decked-out in his Gucci outfit. The final festivities took place at the Winery Greve in Chianti where they bid their tour Arrivederci! President Jim explained that the Norfolk Rotary Club has a deep interest in literacy so it is our pleasure to donate a book in Joey’s and Sigur’s honor to Chesterfield Academy. The Meeting: President Jim rang the bell to begin the meeting at 12:33 and welcomed everyone to the Norfolk Rotary Club’s first hybrid meeting. Rotarian's attended in person and via Zoom. Chuck Spence sang two songs – "The 4 Way Test", and "Grand Ole Flag". The Rotarians conducted the Pledge of Allegiance and gave an Invocation. No guest at today’ meeting. Announcement and Club Business: - As this is the first meeting in October, President Jim wished happy birthday, and gave congratulations to those celebrating October anniversaries both wedding and Rotary membership.
- Our next Service Opportunity will be on Saturday, October 10th at the FoodBank in Norfolk from 10am - 1pm. The FoodBank has emerged as a strong partner for our club's service effort during the pandemic.
- Bob Latimer Hot Dog Day will be held in December, stay tuned for more details
- Jason Drane shared information on a potential fundraiser, an on-line auction. More information will be shared as the details are confirmed. The on-line platform is called BidOwl.com.
- President Jim shared info on an upcoming event being hosted by Rotary International on October 24th – the Polio Telethon. Look for details of this in the next President's Message email.
- October is Polio month for Rotary, so in an effort to raise some funds he auctioned off a home-made, made-from-scratch, Key Lime Cheese Cake made by President Jim. The bidding began with Jeff Wells at $25 and ended with Joe Massey offering $105 with the caveat that the pie be consumed by all Rotarians attending the in-person meeting at NBG.
Happy Bucks/Fines - Jason Drane suggested that all Rotarians at NBG should pay a $5.00 pie plate fine
- President Jim said, that is “fair to all concerned”, and then gave Jason a $5.00 fine for calling the plate fine
- President Jim gave happy bucks for his wedding anniversary, a recent trip to the Virginia Zoo and Go Army Team!
- Michael gave $5 happy bucks for his friends finding of a 1966 Rotary Song book
- Tom Ambler gave happy bucks for his son
- Marty Raiss gave happy bucks for her son’s closure on a house and moving back to Norfolk
- Jim O'Brien gave happy bucks for his new puppy, a border collie
- Lorna Cochrane gave happy bucks for her sister’s horse winnings.
The next meeting will be an all ZOOM meeting on Tuesday, 11/13, the speaker will be Tina Gill, President and CEO of UPcenter. Meeting adjourned at 1:36pm |
