Pledge led by President Pete Brock
Inspiration
Anthony Landi referenced teamwork expressed by the winning team Philadelphia Eagles after the Super Bowl game. They credited their win to the teamwork they practice daily not only in preparation for a game. Anthony compared the Eagles’ teamwork to that of the Rotary members’ teamwork and the work we do to impact the community throughout various projects.
Today’s greeter
Tyler Peart. He brought soccer mugs and refrigerator magnets for Rotarians attending the meeting.
Guests/Visiting Rotarians
Tammy DeBarros visiting from the New Bedford club.
On Zoom
Lew Hassell, Benjamin Hadsell, Barry Fain, Luis Lourenco
Announcements
Our March 27th Barker Playhouse evening is sold out but the Cranston club may have available tickets for those who still want to attend the “Into the Woods” performance and reception. Attending Rotarians are invited to bring food and perhaps beverages for the reception.
Blood Drive. Chair Michaela Hermann reported the project is still pending.
The Coat Drive project goes to the Board for approval.
Slate of Officers. Chair Sharon Garland reported the committee is looking to fill 5 seats. Ballots will be mailled to the membership shortly. Please respond soon once you have received the ballot.
Anthony Landi reported that a Rotary Foundation Appeal email was sent to the membership asking for donations. A Gala Donations letter was sent to donors on January 31st for tax purposes.
Happy Bucks
The Applegates on behalf of the Valentines for Veterans project. Bill and Holly presented Club valentines to the veterans last week. Holly has invited a veterans’ representative to speak to the club in the near future. The VA Hospital posted this on their website.- Rob Black on happy to be back at the Club. He reported that his PT is going well. He also celebrated his daughter’s birthday and her husband’s.
- Tammy DeBarros gave a $100 donation to the Literacy fund.
- Donations from Tyler Peart and Cap Willey
- Kevin Oates/Happy to be back in Rhode Island from Florida
- Emily Bernstein’s return from a celebration in Chicago
- Pete Brock’s son John finding a home to rent in Portsmouth thanks to the Applegates.
Guest Speaker
Matthew Spoehr, Deputy Director of U.S. Small Business Administration
Matthew and his team work with, and assist many unique local small businesses and organizations which are the engine of our state and national economy. Since joining the agency in 2012 he has served in several roles with proficiency in areas such as commercial lending, federal procurement and contracting certifications, and stakeholder relations. Matthew is a graduate of Bryant University.
Following his presentation several club members asked the following questions.
What is the number of businesses served in 2024? 3,000
Is the Providence Place Mall turning into condos? No definitive answer at this point
What is the threshold for small businesses? It depends on your industry; you should use the NAICS (classification code) associated with your business, and the estimated revenue and/or number of employees.
Has the SBA agencies been impacted by the new administration? Fluid; case by case basis.
All recipients receiving federal funds are being reviewed by the new administration.
Past President Stephen Hug died in the hospital this past Friday, 2/14/2025. We will post information about services once we have them. 
