Who needs Punxatawny Phil; Ed Smith cautioned, “Winter is not over, stay tuned.” Then he introduced guests Judith Woodbury, the speaker today, and Bill Wilson, George’s brother, a member of the Red Lodge, Montana Rotary club. Ed sadly reported the passing of Jim O’Connell, a 47-year veteran of the Ogunquit Fire Department. Richard thanked all for the support provided through his and Mary’s illnesses. Elizabeth Ford owned up to her picture in the Sentinel for the Day of Warming. Pete went to Wells Elementary School earlier in the day to read to students and learned the hard way not to park in the bus lanes. (We all need a little training from time to time, don’t we.) Pete welcomed Melanie Tromblee back to our club. Clynk stands at $131.85. Melanie is glad to be back with us. Joe was happy because he “was not Peter today” and because Tracy, Carol and Kerry updated him on every bargain and restaurant in the area. Joe attended a Biddeford-Saco club meeting at the Biddeford Middle School where lunch was served by 7th and 8th graders in the culinary program. Tracy’s mom, who has been treated for lung cancer, had a clear CT scan and does not need to be checked again for 6 months. Kerry wished us all “Happy March.” John was happy to have Mary’s company at lunch today. George apologized for missing the reading day. I reported on the District Recovery Initiative meeting at York Hospital. Erin was especially happy to be leaving for Georgia to visit Lexi.
Bill Wilson picked the 50/50 ticket, which was held by Carol. She drew the Jack of Hearts and the Ace of Spades leaving $45 on the table.
Erin officially welcomed Melanie. She also thanked the members who read at the school today. The next board meeting is Thursday, March 7, at the Chamber of Commerce at 4:00. Later at 6:00 that evening is the social at Cornerstone with the Wells Rotary club.
Pete introduced Judith Woodbury, his sister-in-law, to tell us about Dress a Girl Around the World. The organization, with 1600 chapters around the world, has made and donated a million and a half dresses. Jackie Dewey started the organization in 2009. Dresses go to 16 foreign countries as well as some U.S. locations. She also told us of meeting Elias Thomas at one of our holiday luncheons at Jonathan’s where they shared stories of their respective service project experiences. Elias showed keen interest in Dress A Girl. Later that day, he contacted Judith to drop off two suitcases and four bolts of fabric he and Jane had just purchased at Mardens. Judith said that could make up to 80 small dresses; she was very impressed. (Judith's photo is below.)
Judith then read the Dress a Girl prayer: “Because I am a girl, I am the poorest of the poor, … , because I am a girl I can change the world.”
