President Andrew called the Zoom meeting to order with 53 people in attendance.
 
The pledge was led by Michelle Myers-Nelson. John Pencer inspired with a Paul Harris (Rotary founder) quote regarding relishing a chance to change and pivot, which could be well used in these times.
 
Visiting was prospective new member Felix Lee.
 
Rotarian anniversaries were noted for December, notably Julian Rodriguez at 30 years!
 
Sadly, long-time member Harvey Knoernschild passed 11/29/20. A moment of silence was held, and members shared fond memories of his giving nature, and brilliant career as a surgeon. Greg Butterfield noted his fondness for potato salad at the buffet, and John Colwell played tennis with him.
 
The Blue Badge was presented to Ensy Afdari.
 
Dan Snyder reminded all that emails will be sent to members who have not yet responded to the Rotary Foundation pledge drive. Dan will be happy to assist with corporate matching if your employer offers it. Help your donation have a bigger impact!
 
On social media this month Maddie Smith was highlighted with a quote about being inspired by her father. Amy reminded all to reach out to her if you’d like to be featured.
 
Doug Brent announced the new officer slate determined by the Nominating Committee. Nominations and Voting will take place at the next meeting.
 
President Elect - Mike Norcia
Vice President - Lisa Cheskin
Secretary - Doug Brent
Treasurer - Ed Bowen
Asst. Secretary - David Hubbard
Asst. Treasurer - Dan Snyder

Director - Jeff Barnett
Director - Meghan Burton
Director - David Wells
 
Sergeant at Arms - Gregg Butterfield

Scholarship Committee member - Tony James
Investments Committee member - Henry Vitkovich
The following positions are not up for election, but carry over to 2021-2022 based on the role these people held this year.
President - Nicholas Welzenbach
Immediate Past President - Andrew Stearns
Director - Rachelle Lopp
Director - Chris Potter
 
Members shared backgrounds of their favorite gifts.
  • Randy Cobb showed his Red Rider BB Gun, noting he never shot his eye out.
  • Tina showed a hand drawing her son made of the importance of a mama lion’s love.
  • Tom Boyce remembered his first very own new bike as a kid.
  • Haryl showed his special Mickey Mouse watch.
  • Patti shared how on Mother’s Day a few years ago her daughter smiled the first time in 3 years, having emerged from debilitating depression and anxiety.

20 for 20:

  • Gary Allison donated due to the SJSU amazing 5-0 start to the season.
  • Nicholas announced the Campbell toy drive for disadvantaged youth. Go to https://campbelltoyprogram.com to give
 
Next week’s program will feature a special President’s brunch-ish tribute program, as we aren’t able to have our usual festive affair. Sad face. Thanks Henry and Suzanne for bringing us some cheer.
 
Judy announced we need to “Get to it” and increase our giving for the Christmas Giving tree program. Members indeed got to it, using the link Dan put in the chat box, and donations surged during the meeting. Way to multi-task! Link is on our club website to give, and it’s all virtual this year. No shopping required.
 
Tina thanked the St Luke volunteers, and shared Randy and Kathy’s festive “ornament” eggs…so creative!
 

Our Speaker

The speaker was Dr. Randy Rowe from Teen Challenge, a place providing therapy to those suffering from addiction. Two graduates spoke of how the program helped them.
 
“Teen challenge was the best decision of my life, I am no longer dependant on alcohol. I look forward to the future now.”
- Chelsie