Michael Durand led the Pledge of Allegiance
Guest
Jamie Black (Rob’s brother)
Inspiration
Mary Cullen discussed the notion that life is about service to others, and Rotarians do genuine acts of service every year.
Announcements
Remember to use the app for parking, promo code ROTARY.
Barry Fain – Get well wishes.
Nondas Voll is in hospice. Thoughts and prayers are appreciated.
Thank you to the nominating committee and all candidates for for the board. Congratulations to board member electees – Emily Bernstein to be secretary.
New members board. Members including Emily Bernstein, George Babcock, Jane Berkowitz, Anthony Hollingshead, Sam New, and Troylynda
New executive committee members will begin their terms in July.
Consider any ideas on how Rotary can be more visible in the community.
Upcoming events for Rotarians
- This Saturday at Cape Cod Tech
- March 2 – We have been invited to join a candle pin bowling tournament. We are hoping for four people at Timber Lanes in Abington, MA on March 2. Entry fee is $100 per team. Deadline to enter is 2/18.
- March 23 – Rotary Leadership Institute
- March 24 – Afternoon Providence Bruins Game ($22)
- May 3-5 – District Conference
- Rotary After Dark in February – stay tuned
- April 27 – There is a webinar on kidney transplants (Kidney Disease Impact Conference)
Tent Dinners: Mary Brewster
Our club has made a commitment to raise $900 to support the Ghana Global Grant by holding tent dinners. Four dates are available for tent supper dinners. Casual dinner, just sign up and go. First is on 2/10. Please give your host $50 if you are able. Benefits charitable efforts in Ghana. Dinners are a great opportunity to meet people, and it’s for a great cause. Contact Mary for more information.
Literacy Program Efforts
Art Norwalk explained that 500 books have been donated for the vending machine. We are working on a date to put labels on the books, and your volunteer efforts would be appreciated. Art will provide more information when the date is established.
Happy Bucks
You can pay online!!
- Pete – extremely happy because his friend and co-worker is here to speak to us today about the Patriots charitable foundation and they work that they do.
- Michael Durand – Was grumpy today, but his attitude improved when he visited the RI state house prior today’s meeting. Michael recommends taking a tour of the state capitol if you have not already.
- Chris Spear – Providence metro member is promoting a food packaging event on April 27. Group will put together 10,000 meals. More info to come in the newsletter.
- Anthony Hollingshead – recognized great work of the membership committee. Committee has, and continues to, do a fantastic job.
- Maury Ryan – Rotary book club remains strong, and you consider joining.
- Bob Murphy – happy bucks looking through the Patriot foundation and recalled sponsorship of an effort with the San Miguel school, and an experience where students took photos with Tom Brady.
- Mary Brewster – Just returned from Barcelona, also is excited about a 2/18 art show.
- Rob Black- brother Jamie is joining today
- Alex David- Saw Troylynda’s father perform at the Blue Room. You can sing with the band and listen to lots of talented musicians.
- Jamie Black – Visiting from California. Celebrating his mother’s 95 birthday. Jamie is also excited about the 49ers in the Super Bowl.
- Liz Messier - Rhett Butler (dog) has been found.
- Art Norwalk – Played bridge with Barry Fain, and Barry is recovering and doing well. Also, Art had a long conversation with Nondas Voll. Please consider calling.
Speaker
Donna Spigarolo, Director of Patriots Community Relations and Patriots Foundation
Donna was born and raised in CT. After staying home with her young children, Donna returned to career life, and wore many hats. Donna met Pete Brock years ago. Eventually, Donna went to work for Patriots Alumni, and now 20 years have transpired. A key focus with youth football access and participation.
Patriots foundation was started by Robert and Myra Kraft (MHK) in 1994. Patriots foundation stands on several pillars:
- Education
- Female Empowerment – sports participation
- Healthcare
- Holidays
- Homelessness / Hunger
- Military
- Volunteerism
- Youth football
Donna provided a multitude of examples of significant charitable undertakings and community involvement.
Foundation has supported organizations including Youth in Action, Man Up, Women’s Refugee Care, and many others. The Foundation serves all six New England states, not just Greater Boston.
Donna gave several examples of foundation grants including Play 60, Inspire Change, and the Young Woods School.
