INSPSIRATION
PP Anthony Hollingshead recalled Paul Harris’ words that Rotarians should focus on their agreements rather than disagreements.

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS, Etc.
President Art thanked Steve Hug for his work on the club’s Facebook page. Members have been liking and sharing posts and we recently have had over a thousand hits.

 

Anthony Hollingshead announced that there will be a repeat of the very successful “Bring A Guest” – BAG Lunch -- at the September 24^th meeting.  There’s no charge for guests who are potential prospects for membership, so bring 'em on.

 

Kris David reported that PP Susan Blicker continues to experience challenges with her health. She is at Vibra Hospital of Massachusetts, 4499 Acushnet Avenue, New Bedford, MA 02745 if members would like to be in touch.

 

David Hunter in remembrance of John McCain.

 

Don Saracen for birthdays, including his wife, Cherie.

 

Rob Black for his grandson’s first birthday.

 

Jose David because we’re alive! and that he found the wallet that he lost!

 

Rev Barlow for his 58^th wedding anniversary and his late wife, Yvonne’s sense of humor.

 

Anthony Hollingshead to wish Tom Adams good luck as he returns home to St. Louis.

 

Kristy Clausen for her grandparents 70^th wedding anniversary.

 

Erica Adams for her new home.

Terri Adelman for a terrific trip to Russia.

 

President Art thanked Kris and Bill David for hosting a Sunday afternoon potluck to benefit Polio Plus.

 

Jim Gilcreast in honor of John McCain and the fact they were both contestants on Jeopardy.

 

Jose David shared the impact that the Rotary Youth Exchange (RYE) has had on his life. He described the journey from his native Venezuela to his current status as a college senior studying business and finance at Endicott College in Beverly MA. During high school in Beverly as an exchange student, Jose developed a strong support network including students, the president of Endicott College, and a generous couple who are now close friends helping Jose with his college expenses. As part of his studies, he is currently in a co-op program at Hasbro in Pawtucket. Jose credits Hasbro for continuing to offer co-op opportunities to students with foreign visas which has become increasingly rare.

This support is critical, as is Jose’s own ability to overcome obstacles. When he told his mother he wanted to apply for RYE, she said they couldn’t afford the airfare, insurance and spending money, so Jose worked three jobs to save enough money. When he needed English language skills, he developed them more quickly by speaking only English and became so proficient he landed a lead in Beverly High School’s production of West Side Story. When he was accepted to Endicott and couldn’t afford to stay there, he returned to Venezuela (where he was kidnapped for a short time by a gang who thought his family must be rich to send him to America) worked and attended school until he could return to Endicott.

 

Jose remains deeply connected to his family and his country. In addition to his studies, Jose has several jobs and sends much needed money back to his family in Venezuela. He asks that Rotarians keep the people of Venezuela in their prayers and help spread consciousness about the hardships and extreme poverty his country is facing.