05/12/17 Bits & Pieces

President Laura Young welcomed 53 members, 6 guests and 1 visiting Rotarian to the meeting. Alan Nye gave a Mothers’ Day  invocation honoring mothers and quoting from Ralph Waldo Emerson, Erma Bombeck, Abraham Lincoln and others. 
 

Queen Peggy Wescott led us in the pledge to the flag; Kathy Grammer led us in singing the national anthem; President Laura introduced the visiting Rotarian and guests; and she thanked all those that assisted with today’s meeting. 
 

We sang “Happy Birthday" and wished "Happy Rotary Anniversary" to those Rotarians celebrating their important dates for the month of May.
 

Past President Roxane Cole shared a ‘Rotary Moment’ and reflected on some of her proudest achievements during her year as Club President in 1999-2000. Roxane discussed going to the Rotary International Convention in Singapore and hearing a Rotarian discuss giving a tree to speakers at their club. She brought the idea back to Portland Rotary and, working with the City of Portland arborist, established Rotary Grove on the Eastern Prom Trail. She is also proud of our contribution to the Armillary in front of Casco Bay Lines on the waterfront, depicting Portland Rotary in the sphere.

Ben Millick conducted the raffle for $2,223. Bruce Moore’s name was picked out of the vessel, but he picked the wrong card – to the relief of all those Rotarians still hoping for this huge Rotary prize. Better luck next week to those entering the jackpot! The cards are down to 4!
 

President Laura announced that we raised $932 from our event at the Allagash Brewing Tour. The proceeds go to the United Way of Greater Portland’s Summer Feed and Read Program to help purchase books for the program. Accepting a check from President Laura is Katie Camplin from the United Way.

Past President Bill Blount thanked all those who participated in the 2017 Spring Rotary Tennis League and encouraged those interested to consider joining the fun. For more information or interests, please contact: Eric Jorgensen at ejorgensen@maine.rr.com or Bill Blount at wblount1@gmail.com.