Operation We Care Highlights Rotary Program
Gallipolis Rotarians were treated to a special program by some of the participants of “Operation We Care.” PDG Mel Simon introduced the guests to the club emphasizing the importance of Rotary’s Fourth Avenue of Service—International Service. Pictured above in the front row are Dr. Donna Mitchell, Lydia Simon, and Lisa Koch. In the back are Bethany Dixon, RN; John Mitchell, RN; Lennie Davis, MSN BSN; Dr. Mike Kinnerly, (Also a member of Pt. Pleasant Rotary); Ethan Pariseau; President Bonnie McFarland; and PDG Mel Simon.
PDG Mel felt that it was time our club heard from other participants involved in the medical mission. Mel asked each of our special guests to provide their own comments about their experiences in the Philippines. Dr. Donna Mitchell was thrilled for the opportunity of student nurses like Ethan to experience cross cultural opportunities. Others indicated the amazing resiliency of the Philippine patients who came through a Tsunami a few months ago. All boasted of the warm and friendly hospitality of the people and the 11 host Rotary Clubs.
Today’s meeting was opened by President Bonnie and our invocation was provided by ADG Matt Willis. Bonnie welcomed all our guests today including Dr. David Lawrence, Dean of Professional Studies at the University of Rio Grande, and guest of PDG Mel. Rotary filled the room today with all of our guests and an excellent attendance by members.
New Member Induction—President Bonnie asked Melissa Kimmel to come forward and assist in the induction of our newest Rotarian, Zac Fosler. Zac is the Executive Director of the Gallia Metropolitan Housing Authority and becomes our 41st member. Zac’s enthusiasm and interest in Rotary is apparent and the assembled members and guests welcomed Zac with a hearty ovation of applause.
Fellowship—Gordon Amsbary presided over an abbreviated version of club fellowship today, but did take a moment to assess a couple of late arrivals—Debbie Saunders and Chris Marazon. Chris also is celebrating a birthday this week, so the entire assembly sang “Happy Birthday. Gordo concluded with a few words of wisdom.
Split-The-Pot—Jim Morison ran STP and asked Lisa Koch to draw the ticket for the small pot of $10.00. Our lucky winner today was Dan Whiteley! Dan carefully drew from the ‘ever-shrinking’ deck only to miss the large pot of $148.00 by drawing the two of hearts! Dan assessed the Foundation Fine against any Rotarian in attendance who wasn’t wearing jeans!
Rotary Coin Box—President Bonnie congratulated Rotarian Dave Smith for turning in a heavy coin box for his contribution to the Rotary Foundation. This is a reminder to all members that using these coin boxes is an easy and painless way to make your $100 annual gift. Be sure to get your box next week!
See you at the meeting next week!