Wednesday, August 13th, 2025
Guests:
Jamie Simpson and the Little League Team
Chris Allen
Liz Marino - Presenting
Speaker: Jamie Simpson & Eric Denu
Birthdays - August 9th - Liz Smith
Anniversary - August 5th - Eric and Janice Denu 19 years!
RotaryAnniv. - August 8th - Spence Putnam 13 years!
Attendance - Liz Marino, Nancy Foster, Heather Foster-Provencher, Bill Cunningham, Jack Brown, Karen Brown, Spence Putnam, Paul Horn, Mike Kellogg, Geoff Conrad, John Barstow, Larry Jones, Ben Fuller, Jason Larocque, Kevin Newton, Jim Needham, Eric Denu, Fred Kenney, Neil Mackey, Tim Hollander, Kati Larocque
Announcements -
-Geoff Conrad Captain of Bocce Team #1
-Neil Mackey Captain of Bocce Team #2
Fines:
Happy Dollars:
- Liz S is happy that the little league joined us this morning!
- Larry is happy to catch a ride home with Mike K!
- Mike K is happy that Jack B brought Chris!
- Spence is happy about surviving the birthday bash for his grandchildren and send off celebration for one who is travelling to Japan!
- Fred was happy about his upcoming vacation to Nova Scotia and that when he returns his Daughter and SIL will have closed on a house!
- Eric was happy about his anniversary and that the little league team was here to speak to us!
- Liz M was happy about the little league team joining us for breakfast and for Eric filling in as speaker!
- Natalie was happy that the team was invited to have breakfast with the club!
Speaker #1 - Jamie Simpson & Middlebury Little League Team
Jamie Simpson is the coach of the State Champion Middlebury Little League Team. He is very proud of all the hard work and dedication that the team has exhibited during their season.
The teams practices 5 times a week with 12 players. He thanks Rotary for the check that was presented to the team and gives a shoutout to all the parents that give their time to ensure the athletes have a fulfilling season!
Speaker #2 - Eric Denu
Eric discussed his experiences and observations from the recent Rotary International convention in Calgary. He highlighted the importance of personal connections made through face-to-face interactions, especially in an international context. Eric also reflected on recent changes in leadership and the activities that foster community involvement and collaboration.
The convention spans four days, and attendees are encouraged to arrive early or stay after for sightseeing. Attendees engage in informal discussions rather than just formal speeches.
There is flexibility for local clubs to pursue independent projects, although larger initiatives may require coordination with parent clubs.
Eric's Highlights/Main Points:
- The importance of international presence and networking within Rotary is significant for building relationships.
- Leadership transitions can occur on short notice and require adaptability.
- The organization offers both fun and fundraising experiences, fostering camaraderie among members.
- Local initiatives can be independently managed, promoting grassroots involvement.
- Eric emphasized the value of in-person connections over virtual ones.
- Francesco (Italy), the newly appointed Rotary International president,
stepped up unexpectedly due to the previous president's withdrawal.
- The convention includes focused discussions on humanitarian
issues, including but not limited to human trafficking.
• Networking opportunities are emphasized alongside fundraising for relevant causes.
- Upcoming conventions are planned, with Taipei as the next location which Eric may attend.
In conclusion Eric spoke to the dynamic environment of Rotary International,
where personal connections, adaptability in leadership, and community involvement are pivotal. The next convention in Taipei promises to continue these traditions, offering opportunities for members to engage
and contribute meaningfully to various causes.
Cow Tag: Bill Cunningham Cow Tag #43
Bill donated the money back to the club!
Thank you Bill!