This Week, Wednesday, March 23, 2016
Ken Fox, recipient of the National Green Building Award will be with us. Topic: Green Building.
Last Week, March 16, 2016
Pres. Jerry called the meeting to order. Denise Current led us in prayer. Pres. Jerry assumed a dual role leading Newton Rotary's a cappella chorus in “God Bless America.” I think the rain later in the day may have been Kate Smith's tears. Unfortunately, our rendition of the song will probably not be heard in the seventh inning of a Yankee's game this season.
Volleyball Tournament
By the time the newsletter goes to press, the tournament will be over and the 2016 champions crowned. The daring, dauntless Team Newton was a dark horse in this year's competition (age is starting to show). Team Stocker Bus was again a championship contender. Hopefully, ice packs and heating pads are back in storage and aches and pains are easing. Stock prices for Australian Cream soared this week.
Sergeant at Arms
Take note, there's a new Rotary sheriff in town, Jim Taylor, aka “Wyatt.” Thinking of not paying a fine levied by “Judge Jerry,” think “OK Corral.” Reminder: stuff your pockets with George Washingtons just in case! Jim collected three late fines, pin fines, badge fines, Irish fines and quote dollars on this date. The “Good Old Days” are here again!
Quote Game
Pres. Jerry offered quotes from Vladimir Putin and our Presidents. The game is very challenging and very fair. Wrong answers support the Club Treasury; so do correct answers. Remember: You have to be in it to lose a dollar! Everybody's a winner. You got to Pay to Play. Pres. Jerry also shared a “Useless Fact,” which concluded that left handed Knights were assumed to be descendants of the devil. Hopefully, all Rotarians will be dining right handed next week!
Guests
Pres. Jerry welcomed our guests:
Shannon Harford
Katie Dudziec
Debbie Gascon
Heidi Mountford
Announcements
Wallkill Valley Rotary is sponsoring Grapes & Hops, a wine and beer tasting on April 29. Pres. Jerry has the fliers for those interested. Tickets – $25 per person; $15 for non-drinkers.
May 14 is Wallkill Valley Rotary's 70th Anniversary celebration at the Lafayette House.
Pres. Jerry will share information re: Fireside Chats at this week's meeting.
Happy Dollars
- Carolyn Ottenbreitt gave $5 happy dollars for her daughter who returned from a concussion to play on her team, winning a District Championship. Next up, Nationals.
- Denise Current for returning from AC to a wonderful surprise birthday celebration.
- John Iliff announced that the Unity Church Choir will perform Sunday, March 20, 4 p.m., at the Newton Methodist Church.
- Sherm Tomasino for the Spring Fest at the Fairgrounds.
- Mike Hannifan for his dad, fellow Rotarian Jerry, who is recuperating from hip surgery.
- Matt Hannum for the marriage of his brother; Len Pasculli officiated.
- Bud Luthman for the relocation to the Spring House Bar & Grille. Once a doubter but now a believer.
Awards
Pres. Jerry and Carl Lazzaro were recognized by Rotary International for their sponsorship of new members.
Past Pres. Steve McNally received a pin for 15 years of service.
Alice Vigilette received a floral bouquet for all she does for Newton Rotary.
Ditto – John Roberts who some wondered might just share the floral arrangement with his wife “Here dear these are for you.” Good move!
Heidi Mountford spoke to the Club about Katie's House, Inc. Katie's House is a non profit 501 C3 organization providing housing, services and activities for people with Intellectual Disabilities. The first house opened in 2007 and in 2012 the second house opened. A third house will be opening in 2016. Two homes are for young men and one for young women. All donations go directly to support the homes and programs provided.
Frank Smith of the Northern N.J. Veterans' Memorial Cemetery spoke to the Club regarding the creation and development of the cemetery in Northern New Jersey. Frank shared the need, history and logistics inherent in the formation of the cemetery as well as the extensive bureaucratic entanglements confronted in the creation and realization of the project. The cemetery is located on North Church Road in Sparta on land donated by Sparta Township. Currently, seven interments have taken place on the site.
Dewey Budd won the 50/50! When asked later how much he won, Dewey said “I don't know. Dottie has the envelope.” The cumulative continues to grow.
