George is working with a team of folks at RiverWoods Durham who are taking steps to host an Afghan refuge family. The group has found a rental home in Portsmouth. There is a need for volunteers to assist with transportation and teach English. Donations of furniture also would be appreciated. On another note, George is planning another visit to Colombia to visit the schools where our recent projects have been focused. Brenda spoke about The Rotary Foundation at the Sanford-Springvale Rotary Club. Ed thanked Erin, John Clancy (in absentia) and Casi Haye for their good work arranging and publicizing the distribution of holiday meals to senior citizens. Joanie joyously announced that her niece and her niece’s husband recently adopted a trio of children from Colombia. Dr. Joe was thankful that Vickie accompanied him and for the many benefits to him of his 45 years as a Rotarian. In a gesture of gratitude, he will donate $45 to our club. Richard was just plain happy to be with us as he so often says. Pete reminded us that the Stars for Troops project remains active. He then offered his Clynk report… “Now CLYNK is called us ECO-Warriors; A High-five from the Recycler gang. We’re right up there with the best of ‘em, And now with the top guys we hang!” $811.80 in the account.
Carol drew the Ace of Hearts on the first try to walk away with 78 dollars!
Susan announced that Heath has signed up to be our president next year and Alice is in line to follow him! Those present at lunch expressed much gratitude at the news. Susan enthusiastically gave a brief report on the activity related to the Canines for Clean Water project. Seventy-five people have signed the pledge to be responsible about dog waste. Elizabeth Ford requested details on how the $4,500 grant is being used; Susan will provide the budget breakdown. The November beach cleanup is at 11 am this Saturday (today.) Susan and Brenda reminded us that Giving Tuesday is November 30.
Joanie met with Wells High School Interact students and their advisors, Kevin Fox and Rachel Graceffa. The club has collected donations of food to be distributed this Tuesday to area families in need. Erin moved that our club contribute $300 to the effort; Brenda seconded. The motion passed.
We’ll be busy in December. Kennebunk Police Chief Bob MacKenzie will speak to us on December 2. On Thursday, December 9, we’ll be handing out boxed meals to seniors between 3 and 5 pm. The next day from 4 to 6, s’mores are on the menu in Perkins Cove along with the Christmas tree lighting. Then, on Saturday, we’ll have a couple of cars in the Christmas by the Sea parade! We’ll have a $20 Yankee Swap at our December 16 annual meeting when the 2022-23 slate of officers will be presented. Phew!
