First VP John Curran filled in admirably for President Don Zillman, who will be back from New Mexico for our next meeting. John welcomed three visitors, including a son and grandson of two of our members, and one visiting Rotarian, Moises Silfren, from La Romana, Dominican Republic.
Moises (photo at right with Roger Fagan) thanked us all for our efforts with the “3-H Project" over the past many years. Moises, whose parents are Haitian and who was born in a sugar field bate, has seen our good works in his position at the Good Samaritan Hospital in La Romana. He thanked us for helping the poor-but-proud people who work so hard in the area and his words were rewarded with a check, presented by Roger Fagan, for $5250 for water filters. This wonderful gift made the trip, with his family (who wanted to experience a Maine winter and were rewarded heartily!) all the more enjoyable for Moises, who is an active Rotarian and former District Governor on his home island.
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Past President Alan Nye offered an uplifting invocation, asking for many “new” blessings in the new year and hoping to find many wonderful “Rotary projects, successes and friends” in the year to come.
Past President Jim Willey led the Pledge of Allegiance and Past President Russ Burleigh tickled the ivories for both “God Bless America” and “Old Lang Syne,” which was led by Ron Bennett, who is celebrating 50 years of wedded bliss this week.
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Mike Fortunato offered an update and a reply to a recent Portland Press Herald article regarding The Long Creek Youth Development Center, where Portland Rotarians have been serving up monthly good cheer for over four years now. After seeing the holiday joy in the eyes of these troubled youth during the December visit, Mike feels strongly that the center is giving these 56 young people the structure they need and hope that they deserve. Congrats and thanks to everyone from our club who has touched the lives of these young folks.
Past President Russ Burleigh offered up thanks to all who have given yarn to his wife Joan, who continues with her amazing efforts at supplying hand-knitted mittens to children in need. With 140 pairs offered up to students at Lyseth School, there were enough to go around to kids at both Riverton and Presumpscot Schools at well. This is a wonderful and longstanding effort by a very generous family. Thanks to the Burleigh/Steinbergs and to all of the Portland Rotarians who have provided wool and cash to help aid in this much-needed project.