Now that the mask mandate has been rescinded locally, we will gather again in person at the country club for this week's meeting. Because of the critical importance of doing all we can to protect each and every club member, the tables will be spaced and we will seat no more than 6 at a table. Some members in attendance will not have been fully vaccinated, so please wear your mask to and from your table. Obviously, if you are feeling unwell or still feel the need to preserve greater distance, please stay home. We will accommodate you by making sure you can attend by Zoom.
Our speaker will be Bob Hermes, who will focus on the importance of reading and outdoor activities as we raise children.
Rotary on the Move
Rotary has not been idle during the pandemic. Through grants from The Rotary Foundation and the initiatives of local Rotary clubs, Rotarians are providing for those in need.
In the Washington D.C. area alone, the Metro Bethesda club provided $53,000 to support three local nonprofits on the frontlines. The Columbia Town Center donated nearly $60,000 worth of personal protective equipment to local senior care facilities. The Rotary Club of Annapolis organized its yearly crab fest as a drive-through. The Rotary Club of Baltimore launched a $30,000 initiative to help feed first responders during the crisis. The Rotary Club of College Park, mobilized volunteers to distribute meals.
Are we doing enough? Is there a local need we could be meeting?
Voting Results
The slate of candidates who will assume office on July 1, 2022, was unanimously approved last week. Most of the candidates either retain an office or "move through the chairs" of the presidency. However, we are pleased to see Jesse Mahugh in the line to the presidency and Bill Bronson assume the importance office of secretary. Congratulations to you both and heartfelt thanks to all of you board members who dedicate so much time and talent to Rotary Club of Great Falls.
The dues increase was also approved recently. If you have paid your annual dues for this year already, don't forget to pay the $35 dues increase at your earliest convenience. For those of you who pay quarterly, please add an additional $17.50 to your remaining payments.
Last Week at Rotary
In our annual tradition, last week we were entertained by student musicians from one of the local schools. This year we heard from the string orchestra of East Middle School, conducted by Lisa Shull.
Playing perhaps the most challenging of musical instruments, these students showed a remarkable prowess, even tackling the "winter" portion of Vivaldi's "Four Seasons" with aplomb. Lisa joined the students in this number and it was impressive to see students and their teachers performing as one.
In this season of gift-giving, what a gift to these students -- and through them, to the entire community -- to be able to offer a music program of this caliber to the children of Great Falls!
We also enjoyed the presence of the spouses of several members and two special guests last week. Trisha Harp Gardner, who has led the City-County Health Department through the challenges of the pandemic, joined us as she embarks on a new job with the state. Rotarians extended our thanks for her service ... and, of course, exulted in the joy of having a Harp at our holiday program again. Evening Rotarian Eric Hinebauch also joined us and we congratulated him on his new position as a City Commissioner.
Another nice holiday luncheon!
Milestones
Happy birthday on December 20 to honorary member Ken Munski! What a stellar member he has been! Also of note, December marks Fred Anderson's 30th anniversary as a Rotarian. That's a lot of years of service above self. Thanks for all you bring to the club, Fred.
Weekly Wisdom: Onset of Winter
Find out where joy resides and give it a voice beyond singing. For to miss the joy is to miss all.
