Jim Gilcreast led us in the pledge.

 

Following the attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec 7^th, 1941 Wendy’s Dad and his best friend signed up to serve in the arm services. As Jews they felt it was very important to serve their country in combat against autocracy’s and dictatorships. They rolled up their sleeves to get Typhoid, Small Pox and Tetanus shots in their patriotic arms (pre Polio shots). As a child he flew her on a military transport to Oahu Hawaiian Island where they visited Pearl Harbor to honor the solders and sailors who served and died.

 

President Holly, recognized today's guest as our speaker Nicole Brien husband, Jon Brien, who is also a Rotarian. Holly welcomed our members on Zoom and thanked President Elect Steve for subbing for her the past three weeks. She presented him with a gift to keep him warm while running. Holly and Bill had a very enjoyable trip to Italy and a cruise with very strict restrictions. As soon as they disembarked in Spain they were surprised and pleased to see a huge and very impressive Rotary sculpture. Prior to leaving she attended the district conference were she received a 3^rd place award for our clubs contributions of $3,500 to Polio plus campaign. Thank you Kris for her leadership. Sharon Johnson has been confirmed as a District Governor Nominee Designate.

Mary announced the Good Works Committee will wrap up their collection of hats, scarfs. She is also working on a pen pal project. Looking for volunteers. Liz indicated there will be a game night in January. Date TBD.

Art was presented a special Paul Harris plus 8 award for contributing $8,000 over the years.

Arthur Robbins, Richard Applebaum, Kevin Oates, Bryan Cook

 

Holly introduced our speaker Nicole Brien who is President of the Woonsocket Rotary Club and co-founder of Just for you Giving Center. She is president of Bourget & Associates, Inc. in Woonsocket. Bourget & Associates is a nationwide provider of a wide variety of due diligence and business financial consulting services to meet client needs. She is a two time Breast Cancer Survivor and one of the youngest members of the Gemma Foundation. Just for You, a giving center helps families in the Woonsocket area meet clothing and other basic needs for Foster families. They have school aged children who have experienced anxiety returning to school in the same outfits day after day even pajamas because that’s all they brought with them from their previous home. Many times a baby in emergency placement come with no appropriate clothing, blankets or diapers. Significantly, funding vouchers have been reduced over the past several years resulting in more need. That is why the Rotary Club of Woonsocket decided to do something to help foster families, homeless, and disadvantage children by opening Just for You, a giving center closet filled with new and gently used clothes and items. They are located at 245 Main St. Woonsocket.