The meeting was called to order.
Guests were Bill Wilson (a guest of President Doug’s), and Carol Goedde of San Jose Rotary Silicon Valley who is looking to join our club.
Inspiration was by Jean Marc Blanchard. He told the story of a struggling man who saved a run-away stroller from traffic. A video of the event went viral and he received many notes of support, making him realize his value. Never underestimate that a 10 second compliment to a stranger could change a life.
Jean Marc visited a Rotary club in Serbia since he was there on work. He retold the meeting details and exchanged banners. He recommends we all do this when traveling.
President Doug thought it was good timing to share Rachelle Lopp’s video created for the 100 yr celebration. She articulated how she sees the value of Rotary in pulling together our community in these toxic times. Indeed she was well spoken and we are lucky to have her as incoming President Elect.
Suzanne announced that the CrabFest is sold out, at the earliest point ever, but to reach out to her to be put on a waiting list if tickets open up.
Signup sheets were circulated for help on day of event.
Announcements:
- Thank you to Cindy Gentile putting lunches together and for the delicious desserts brought in by Michelle, Marjory, and Karen. Andrew Howard then promptly got up to get some ha!
- Patti said she visited Sarita at a care facility she has been in since November. She welcomes visitors. Anyone can drop in to say hi at Westwood Post Acute Care on Petersen in San Jose. Lydia noted as chair of the We Care committee to let her know of members with health or other issues, and that she sent a card to Sarita.
Jean-Marc Blanchard gave our inspirational message with gratitude to the Southern California firefighters and to all those first responders of 9/11. Twenty-three years ago, we saw the World Trade Center collapse. There have been 371 people who have died of ground zero related toxins. Jean-Marc spoke about Timothy Stackpole who suffered fourth and fifth degree burns over 40% of his body when he was severely injured in a fifth alarm fire. He returned to full-duty and was promoted to Captain on September 6, 2001 and died on 9/11 doing what he loved. He was a hero, not only because of how he died but more importantly, how he lived. The greatest high in life is by helping others.
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