Art Norwalk quoted from a blog post reminding us that, with the election coming to an end for two years, we should remember that the needs of people in our community require our attention every day of every year.

 

Holly recognized members who served in the military asked for a moment of appreciation in honor of Veterans Day.

 

The Childhood Literacy Committee (members George Babcock, Art Norwalk, Bryan Cook, Connie Donnelly, Mary Cullen, Pete Brock), presented comprehensive innovative proposal to the Rotary Board and Foundation. Both unanimously approved. This will be presented to membership at our Dec 1^st meeting. We will also be looking into a virtual fundraiser.

 

Kris thanked members who wrote 100 cards to veterans for Operation Quarantine. She delivered masks to Ray Rickman, Melissa at Rise, and to Walter for Thundermist Health Center. Kris is working with Steve to come up with a holiday list for gifts for foster kids. Working with Christy on food insecurity for the beginning of the year.

 

Margaret $1 for the positive news on a vaccine.

 

Walter $5 thanks to Kris he and Ann delivered masks to Thundermist where their son Michael was Director of Opioid addiction. This month marks one year of his passing.

 

Kris $1 Happy Birthday for the U.S Marine Corp.

 

$1 Anthony saying hi to Herb down in Vero Beach, Fla.

 

Jim $3 he’s happy, thanks to fellow Vets, asked about San Miguel party. Kris is working with Bob on that for Jan.

 

Nondas $1 happy about Kamala Harris as the first woman VP Elect.

 

Wendy $3 Nondas, Scott MacKay and Alan for being alumni of Tulane University.

 

Herb $10 Happy Buck Margret, Nondas agree with Kamala Harris, Anthony for looking sharp, Jim in the spotlight.

 

Scott MacKay, political commentator on The Public’s Radio, opined that Biden’s win over Trump was a victory of competence over chaos. Biden had the most votes in history and Trump was second. It shows we are a divided nation.

 

He advised that we should remember the name of Mike Donilon, a RI native who has been one of the closest advisors to Joe Biden. You’ll be hearing more about him.

 

Locally we have a new Speaker of the House. Joseph Shekarchi, who’s close to the Governor and known as a moderate.

 

State challenges: a budget with a river of red ink, unemployment and virus spike and pandemic fatigue. Jack Reed, Jim Langevin and Cicilline all won reelection.

 

Congressman Cicilline is looking to move up in leadership. Sheldon Whitehouse will gain extra seniority on the judiciary committee. Gov. Raimondo may be considered for a cabinet position?