George Babcock Led the Pledge
(and offered a Trivia question)
What was the first state to ratify the Constitution? (Delaware) and the last? (Rhode Island)
Inspiration from Paul Borrelli
“Love is much bigger than relationships. Love is the way you heal yourself, the kindness you give to others, the gentleness you give yourself during turbulent times, the space you hold for close friends, the intention you use to live in the present, and the energy that changes the world. It's every moment that elevates the human experience and all the small things that make life shine” - Yung Pueblo
He asked us all to share a hug or handshake with our neighbors to create love in the world.
Members on Zoom
Kris David, Don Saracen, Michaela Hermann, Kevin Oates, Rob Brewster, Mary Brewster
Club Announcements
This year is the 25th Anniversary of Shelter Box. The district is hosting an “All Hands” Rotary Roundup 8/28 at 12pm PST/3pm EST on zoom, where they will be focusing on the power of Rotary’s partnership with Shelter Box. PP Kris David pointed out that our club was recognized for giving the largest donation to Shelter Box on our Club’s 100th anniversary. We gave of $22K (because we were the 22nd club in the world). This event happened this past Wednesday.
Legends for Literacy Gala
Don Saracen announced some sponsorship updates, and asked us to keep the ball rolling
Keep Barry Fain in your thoughts, as he went into the hospital on Friday.
Liz Messier is also not feeling well.
There has been an outbreak of Polio in the Gaza Strip and PP Kris David wanted to ensure that we were aware that Rotary International has responded.
Happy Bucks
- Bill Applegate is happy that everything works, and wishes Rob Black a quick recovery
- Anthony Landi is happy that he is moving both kids into school.
- George Babcock is happy because he is turning 79, his wife is also celebrating her birthday, and they are also celebrating their 55th wedding anniversary
- Jane Berkowitz is happy to be back
- Don Saracen is happy because he got to go out on an America’s Cup boat last week which was an incredible experience
- Michael Durant is happy to be back in Rhode Island and experiencing fall
- Pete is happy that progress is being made with the gala, and also wished Rob Black a speedy recovery.
Speaker
Jennifer Remmes, Director of Development at
Insight.
They are celebrating their 100th anniversary next year. The organization was founded by area churches in 1925 as the RI Association for the Blind.
Their mission is to inspire confidence and build skills that help people who are visually impaired and blind to thrive and succeed. They are the largest private provider of these types of provisions in the state, and they service all ages, as well as family/friends affected by those who are visually impaired. The majority of their services are offered free of charge.
The organization provides extensive services to help individuals throughout the process of vision loss. They help with learning tools and resources that are available and have a practice apartment in their office where clients can come and learn how to navigate experiences like pouring drinks or taking prescriptions. They also support caregivers and people who are supporting people with vision loss.
In addition, you can find help with support networks, social workers, wellness assistance (including one of the only visually impaired yoga instructors in the state), and a Caregivers Connect platform. They do lots of activities, outings, and have a summer camp for kids. If you need help modifying your home, they will help you make adjustments as needed.
It is important to know that most visually impaired people do have some vision and can be very independent and do most things, aside from driving. However, losing your vision can be a very emotional and difficult experience. They are dedicated to helping individuals navigate that process.
She mentioned a
great plugin called UserWay that can be added to websites to improve accessibility.
Please sign up as 
