Happy Dollars
Larry Haber, happy to soon be on his way to his annual Portland, Maine trip, gave a "shout-out" to his 100 year old uncle who had his aortic valve replaced and spent only 2 days in the hospital! What's possible in medicine today is truly amazing!
Paul Mikkelson shared some sad news as it has been reported that Joe Kelly is no longer with the Red Sox. Kelly, with whom Paul's wife was in love, has moved to the Dodgers. Paul also shared some happy news as he attended a performance that included Bill Barnes and his orchestra last Saturday evening at Simsbury;'s Eno Hall and it was "out of sight!" Paul encourages all Rotarians to attend future concerts.
YOUR EYES ONLY: Larry Sullivan, thankful for last Saturday's event, Breakfast with Santa, in Canton, managed to make his secret batter without any lumps, noting only that several nosy Rotarians were poking around. Still, and thankfully, his formula remains top secret to this day. [Burn this Happy Dollar report after reading.]
Robin Dinicola was happy to report that our own Christine Heath had successful leg surgery and is recovering.
Sue Budde was appreciative of the Miller and Stevens families for hosting their annual Rotary Christmas dinner, and also of Phil Ferrari who is scheduled to speak about his experiences helping in Uganda at the West Avon Congregational Church on Sunday, December 15th.
Salin Low offered her gratitude for the Miller Foods dinner and also for Larry Sullivan's special batter, and then unexpectedly, suffered a sudden Capri moment. With no physician present to treat her, Rotarians watched in rapt amazement as Salin, Capri-like in her delivery, described a recent Wall Street Journal article that concerned pervasive loneliness among aging Baby Boomers. The article described Baby Boomers as "the biggest and loneliest generation", tending not belonging to organizations. Salin went on to contrast this with how fortunate we are to have Rotary, and a community. She encouraged everyone to make this clear to future generations so they will not be "as lonely as we are. So join Rotary!"
Linda Pendergast, husband Paul visited New York City and as is her family's custom saw the Rockettes, along with her daughter and her daughter's family. They also and saw the new movie production of To Kill a Mockingbird, which is based upon the book of the same name, and which is Linda's favorite book, one she first read at age 13, just 7 years ago! Said Linda, "I loved the movie." She had entertained some concern about Jeff Daniels in his role, but "it's fabulous", said Linda.
Rollie and Karen Sterrett visited Salt Lake City to see their three Utah-based grandchildren, ages 16, 13 and 10. They plan to spend Christmas with another set of grandchildren, located in Belmont, Massachusetts. Rollie wishes everyone a Merry Christmas!
Katelyn Kaplan bought a house, and found packing to move a challenge with a 9 month old to entertain. Now settled in, she's glad to be back at Rotary!
Jolly Lux's Uganda field work in September and October included the performance of some surgical procedures in their clinic, despite not yet having a license to do so. The work was completed competently and professionally and saved several lives, despite the red tape involving the license. The Clinic now has full approval from the local Diocese, which includes a 10-year duration land use agreement for the clinic. All those having had surgery are reportedly doing well!
Heather Pantano announced we are just $900.00 away from achieving the amount necessary for receipt of the maximum Salvation Army funds match, and encourage Rotarians to bring us the rest of the way!
Alicia Canning took her granddaughter to old Sturbridge Village recently, and last Saturday her other daughter came up north so that for the first time, all seven of her grandkids were able to be together. Very special memories for Alicia!
Dale Bronson thanked those who had signed up for the upcoming FAVARH holiday party.
Announcements
Mike Mezheritskiy announced that a new cafe has opened inside the New England Pasta Company restaurant, and that some of his clients go there. Steve Morris and he discussed holding a Rotary meeting there one day. More information to come.
Calendar of Upcoming Events
Bell Ringing on December 22 - Hank Frey is still looking for a few more ringers for the Saturday before Christmas. When we ring on the weekend, 90% of the money stays in the Farmington Valley. And it's a good time to visit with another Rotarian. Contact Hank to learn more.
Taste of the Valley will be held Saturday, March 30 at 6 PM. More information to come, but we will need some new restaurants as several of our past contributors are no longer in business. Next committee meeting is Tuesday December 18th, 5 PM at Dish & Dat.
Induction of New Members
None today.
