We welcomed two visitors today. Tom Egan, Ray Hamlin’s longtime friend, and Paul Salacain of York.

Before the Pledge of Allegiance, etc., Jim handed each member a paper giving each of us a chance to sign up to help at all the events upcoming on the calendar this Rotary year.

For the Moment of Gratitude, Ed Smith read from the old blue book. 

“Thank you, Lord God, for another chance to meet and eat. Beyond that we ask you to bless and magnify our efforts, however small, to serve our fellow men and improve our world through our businesses and professions and in the ritual of daily living.”

In happy dollars, Dr. Joe was pleased that John Clancy attended today. He also noted that three Biddeford Saco Rotarians were winners in our calendar raffle. they expressed the opinion that the calendars should sell at a higher price. Eileen is happy to be well and that her husband, Gary, has returned from some business travel . Nancy seconded Joe’s comments about the price of the calendar. Erin was very happy about the delightful social at Connie’s home. Ed Smith and his wife just celebrated 43 years of wedded bliss. Ray was happy to be accompanied by his longtime friend, Tom Egan, from Victor New York. John Clancy was thrilled to win the calendar raffle on September 28. Brian was thankful for lack of sleep due to his new puppy barking overnight wanting to see Brian’s mom, Theadora Eaton Shore,  who was visiting!  She was in the Wells High School class of 1950, where she played basketball! She also played hoops for the US Marine Corps! Tracy was happy that the rain is done and that the calendar raffle concluded successfully. Rick thanked Tracy and company for the raffle and for not picking his name as he would not want to report winnings to the IRS! Barbara was sorry to miss the social due to a brief illness. Susan was happy that her “business husband” at Aland Realty, Paul Salacain, was with us. Paul was happy to be visiting us. Pete provided this nugget,

“We're up six bucks since last report!

That's a goodly fine gain at last,

Thanks to all who are pitching in,

It's a real improvement over the past!

Our account is up to $542.70.”

Carol had the ticket but drew the 6 of diamonds and the 5 of spades. the pot grows larger!

Jim asked everyone to examine the list of upcoming events and to note any tasks they are willing to pitch in on. Note: the list did not include decorating Rotary Park for Ogunquitfest and Christmas by the Sea. anyone interested in helping in this area should let Jim know. 

Jim briefly explained the key points in the proposed policy and procedures document for the community grants program. Eric moved to accept the document as proposed; several members seconded. The motion passed without objection.

The board suggests that the club donate $400 to the Maine Youth Leadership to fund one participant in the leadership program. Susan moved to approve; Brian seconded. The motion passed without objection. (Note: Ray will review the organization’s non-profit tax filking document.)

For a donation by the club to Rotary International Polio-Plus, two Ogunquit  Playhouse tickets were auctioned. Erin won with a bid of $65.

Jim asked members to consider volunteering to be a club officer or to nominate someone to be a club officer. the board will work toward having a proposed slate of officers by December.

Finally, Jim expressed sincere thanks to Connie and Susan for the splendid social gathering on September 24. 

District 7780 Governor Michele Bois-Gilbody will make her official visit to the club on October 15.

Respectfully,