After the Pledge of Allegiance, I offered the following thoughts in connection with truth, fairness, goodwill, and beneficence as cited in Rotary’s Four-Way Test. First, some truth – the position of membership chair is vacant, and the positions of treasurer and secretary could become vacant on July 1. In fairness, these tasks should be handled by many club members. One definition of goodwill is a friendly or helpful attitude toward others. One’s sense of self benefits from volunteering, and the club benefits from that volunteerism. Please consider signing up.

 

Rick shared some thoughts for the moment of gratitude. Appreciation can make a day, even change a life. Your willingness to put into words is all that is necessary. Gratitude is thankfulness expressed in action.

 

Before lunch, Erin gave an update on this year’s holiday luncheon at Jonathan’s on Thursday, December 5, at 11:45. She’ll send out a signup genius for the December 14 S’mores in the Cove activity as well as the December 15 Christmas by the Sea parade. Brenda will drive her car in the parade. 

 

We’ll enjoy a Yankee Swap ($25) at our December 19 meeting.

 

In happy dollars, Susan had good news. Her sister came out of cancer surgery to find that no chemo or radiation treatment is required. Brenda reported that we have hit $2,250 toward our $3,500 Rotary Foundation goal for the year. The club is matching dollar-for-dollar donations to PolioPlus. She spoke of lingering after-effects of the concussion she suffered in October. Ed glumly remembered Aaron Judge dropping a routine fly ball in the World Series. Hannah has the weekend off. Several members offered remarks thinking of those affected by the apartment building fire in Wells. The contributions committee proposed a $500 donation to support the fire victims. The club voted unanimously in favor. Eileen was happy to vacation in Italy and happier yet to return! Tracy’s niece is engaged. Connie had a nice birthday. Melanie reported that Bread and Roses will donate pies to a Wells fire relief effort fundraiser. Russ said he was going to cook alligator but all he had was a croc pot! 

 

All praise Pete’s poetry! 

 

“Thanksgiving Day is just about here,
   May we all enjoy our gatherings this year,
With turkey and stuffing and all of the rest,
   And be thankful for those things with which we are blessed!”

 

Dr. Joe picked two non-winning cards, the 3 of spades and 6 of diamonds. At the Biddeford-Saco club raffle, Joe did not win, Vickie did not win, and our club did not win!  

 

Rick reported that the agenda for the December 12 board meeting will be sent to all club members. Please RSVP “Yes” if you wish to partake of the post-meeting pizza. Rick called attention to the December 8 Spirit of Giving drop-off party at Maine Street Ogunquit.  

 

I wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving!

 

Ed Seppa