In an example of group fearlessness, a stalwart band of Rotarians assembled for the second virtual noontime meeting. Leading the next chapter in our ethernet adventure, President and embodiment of Rotarian virtues, a.k.a. President Mike, called the group to order with a virtual bang of the gavel.
Invocation-Despite a laudable attempt to mime invocation, Barry was superseded by Keith Caplet who did an impressive job of extemporaneous invocating.
Fellowship-Ray used this opportunity to entertain his audience with a variety of puns. One Ray did not use, but could have, is this: Thanks for teaching me the definition of plethora…it means a lot.
Happy Dollars-With Rodney! Rodney described the byzantine process of applying for state and federal monies. (A pretty fair description it was!) he later noted that Olde Tymes had contributed 120 to the staff at Backus Hospital. Huzzah! Jim Konrad has been working from home for weeks, yet looked pretty stable. He noted some changes forthcoming, in particular, the Bulletin’s Historically Speaking column will feature more voices-a tip of the fedora to Bill Champagne and Regan Miner. Gary reported that his washer was fixed, likewise, his tractor and the shower was almost there. Bill Champagne lamented that 3 friends recently lost parents. Being largely confined to the home he has relentlessly engaged in yard work and plastering. President Mike cleaned his shed and espied an expired mouse who shall remain nameless. Katie hurt her eye but was exceptionally brave at the E.R. Annah Perch expressed great joy at being part of the group and working at NFA. Nancy and her husband had been in recent contact with their daughter, a health care worker who has been screening patients in New York. It has been scary but they are very proud of her. She also described a virtual birthday party for her grandson. Susy allowed that she was enjoying the opportunity to walk her dog and found the solitude a nice change.
Announcements- Kathryn Tracey will receive dropoffs at Berkshire Bank for Happy Dollars and No Show Gala; a request from Mike to donate weekly meeting fees ($15) to help struggling agencies received general assent. On Fridays, the District is sponsoring a virtual cocktail hour. BYOB, but please, nothing with a screw top or described as fortified wine. A good time will be had by all. President Mike also hopes to have the Lowneys speak at a future meeting.
Auction-Our first virtual auction! Live, from his domicile, Jim Konrad offered an Olde Tymes gift certificate. A flurry of activity resulted in Susy emerging with the winning bid.
In closing, Mike shared how nice it was to be at home with two great kids. To her surprise, Susy was selected to lead those virtually assembled in the Four-Way Test.