After the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance, Susan summarized, for the moment of gratitude, the Loving Kindness Meditation. The web provided this overview: Loving-kindness meditation, historically known as Metta, originated from ancient Buddhist teachings over 2,500 years ago to cultivate boundless compassion, benevolence, and friendliness. Then Pete lead the way in the Four-Way test.

In happy dollars, Rick’s new dog wandered off but returned home on its own. Eileen was happy about Pride events. Elizabeth Cutler has taken fiendish delight in playing and winning at NYT Crossplay online with a friend from her youth who now resides in New York. Susan reported on the status of three members: Brenda has returned home from recent Rotary International activity, Connie had outpatient surgery and Richard occasionally gets out to a restaurant for lunch. Ed Smith enjoyed a recent visit with Richard. Pete paid tribute to outgoing president Rick and president-elect Jim.  

“May the sun stand still for Rick, 

as he captures all its brilliant new sunrises,

Let’s all thank him for his past service,

Also wish Jim good luck as he supervises!”

Ray and Kay visited their daughter and grandchildren in Cincinnati. Pam Gray and Andy attended the district conference in Bridgeton Lakes Region. Carol and I enjoyed a nice day at Maine Coastal Botanical Garden. Barbara and her husband had a good winter in Florida although he suffered a foot injury from which he is now recovering. Dr. Joe was happy that Vickie attended with him today. 

Carol Brennan drew the 6 of spades and the jack of diamonds. The pot grows bigger!

Rick auctioned off the rhubarb that Ed smith donated. Eileen won with a bid of $20.

Erin distributed packets of  Super September Calendars to all members. We have all of June, July and August to sell before prizes are awarded starting on September 1.

Dr. Joe took the floor to present a Paul Harris Award to Eric Nixon. Joe said, “I’m particularly proud of you for having stepped up to be club treasurer.” (see image below.)

Jim Anliot nominated me to assume the position of secretary for Rotary year 2026-27. The members in attendance approved.

Pam Gray summarized the proposed initiative by District 7780 and District 7850 to merge. Currently our club is a member of 7780 which covers western Maine and a small portion of southeastern New Hampshire. District 7850 covers northern New Hampshire and northern Vermont along with a small southern portion of Quebec. After some discussion, a vote of members was taken and passed unanimously to endorse the initiative. 

Members are reminded to sign up for the Changeover on June 18 at 5:30 PM at the clubhouse in The Forest: 54 Pointed Fir Boulevard in Wells. There is no lunchtime club meeting that day. 

Respectfully,

Ed Seppa