John Adams led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Inspiration
Inspiration was provided by Bill Applegate.
"The history of every country begins with the heart of a man or a woman." — Willa Cather
Why did I come up with this quotation today
Most people think Cinco de Mayo is the Mexican Independence Day – it isn’t. Today commemorates the Battle of Puebla in 1862, where a smaller, outmatched Mexican army defeated the much larger French forces. It serves as a powerful reminder that:
- Determination can outweigh resources.
- Unity creates strength where there was once vulnerability.
- Heritage is built through moments of bravery.
Rotarians on Zoom
Don Saracen, PJ Fox, Craig Creller, Stacy Boothman
Happy Bucks
Pete Brock recently graduated from the University of Colorado. His graduation was Saturday, and a massive celebration ensued. Despite believing that he stuck out like a sore thumb, Pete felt at home hanging out with the other New England area graduates of “various ages.” Congratulations, Pete! (See Note at the end of this column.)
Liz Messier is happy about our Cinco de Mayo lunch.
Holly Applegate is happy for Pete Brock.
Sam New celebrated Pete’s graduation.
Several others congratulated Pete as well.
Bill Applegate was happy about the Cinco de Mayo lunch.
Announcements
Simone Fargiorgio offered two tickets to PPAC performance of Kimberly Akimbo May 9.
A cake was offered for dessert!
Speaker
“Rotary Speaks” is a program where Rotarians can discuss the things that they are doing and involved in. The idea is for newer and seasoned Rotarians in the club to learn more about each other.
Long-time Rotarian Liz Messier highlighted the growth of the club and the opportunity that this presents for newer members to establish themselves. When Liz lost her husband at age 34, she was facing an uncertain future as a single mother. Liz began a career as a corporate trainer at RIH. Liz’s children have grown up happily and successfully. In 1989, Liz joined Holly Applegate at Residential Properties, and later became the company Rotary rep. In 2024, Liz retired but became deeply involved in the theater community at The Players, pursuing a lifelong interest. Liz considers The Players as her home away from home. In 20 years as a Rotarian, Liz has always found satisfaction and fulfillment as a Rotarian.
Yani Hernandez, a newer member of the club, began by telling a story about her friend whose mother needed assisted living after a fall. This led to the creation of her company, “With Love.” The mother, Joan, is now thriving in an assisted living community in Somerset, MA. Yani’s career is helping families navigate the challenges and complexity of managing long-term care. Yani works directly with families, often on a “hands-on” basis, touring facilities for their loved ones. Yani also has a very active four-year-old. Her significant other is an electrician. Yani is an exercise enthusiast, focusing on heavy lifts and other longevity-related exercises. She also enjoys baking sourdough. When Yani began thinking about community organizations, she found Providence Rotary where she looks forward to offering positive impact as a board member going forward.
*Note:
Here are two links from the University of Colorado graduation.
https://cubuffs.com/news/2026/5/1/football-50-years-later-pete-brock-finishes-what-he-started-at-colorado
https://youtu.be/cZw1nitqaLY
