Rob presided over today's hybrid meeting, which was attended by 9 members on Zoom, 3 in person at Cafe Spiga, along with 5 guests who braved the snow-lined streets and freezing weather to attend, including PJ Middle School's Most Motivated Student of the Month, Josef ("Max") Joyner, his parents, his social studies teacher, and PJMS Principal Dr. Bob Neidig. Nancy reminded us that fees owed as the result of December and January Sergeants' fines and happy/sad dollar donations are now due (if amounting to $5 or more) and can be paid via check made out to Port Jeff Rotary and sent to her (Nancy Uzo, Mather Hospital, 75 North Country Rd., Port Jefferson, NY 11777) or brought to the next club meeting. Kim announced that she will be planning a Virtual Bingo Fundraiser for March: a 1 hour-long event, including, perhaps, 4 games at $20 per card. She welcomes help in designing and running the activity. Interested in volunteering? Contact Kim at kzettwoch@portjefflibrary.org. (Proceeds from this event can go to a number of deserving organizations selected by Archana's Donations Committee). Jennifer announced that the Brookhaven Coalition of Chambers of Commerce and the Terryville, Port Jeff Sta. Chamber of Commerce are offering awards/grants to local small businesses. For more information, go to the Chambers' web sites. Rebecca thanked all of the supporters of our successful 2021 Super Bowl Pool. The 100 squares quickly sold out; our club earned $1,000 from this event; and a number of our members were winners -including Michael B. and Cindy. Bravo! (If you owe money for the purchase of a square or more, kindly send your $ to Nancy A.S.A.P. so that she can distribute the winnings.) Dennis reminded us that today was Open Cupboard Collection Day. Kudos to Pat, who left an especially large donation on his porch for delivery to the Cupboard (along with Sharon's and his own). Rob noted that the club's Winter Golf Classic Survey results are in: the majority of respondents are in favor of holding the event outdoors in May, along with the auction, but without pre-game or post-game parties/gatherings. Michael is seeking more volunteers for his committee that is planning this event. Rob asked Dennis to introduce Dr. Bob Neidig, who in turn introduced us to Joseph "Max" Joyner, this month's Most Motivated Student honoree. Max, who boasts an extremely high GPA, was praised by his teachers as a school leader, who is always helpful in a respectful manner. His algebra I teacher noted that Max is always willing to offer insightful responses that are both thought-provoking and exhibit conceptual understanding of the topic. Max helps and motivates his peers in all classes, is described as hardworking, conscientious, kind, a joy to teach- a student who is a very social person, a natural leader, who looks out not only for himself but also for the well-being of others. He thoroughly completes his classwork, and even requests extra work so that he can be better prepared to learn more and build on previous learning. Last year, Max was a Science Olympiad participant. Max has endeared himself to all of his teachers who are thrilled to have this opportunity to honor him because he is such an an exceptional, mature, dedicated student. Dr. Neidig summarized the reasons for celebrating Max: "His maturity, thirst for knowledge, compassionate nature, and leadership abilities will continue to propel him to accomplish great things in his schooling and beyond....Thank you for inspiring all of us." Congratulations, Max! In the photo below, Max is joined by his social studies teacher, Mrs. Graceanne Fallon, who is delighted to help us salute this special student. Sharon was today's Sergeant, and the theme of her questions dealt with the history of women in Rotary. She was able to raise some money via fines, but also from Happy Dollars, many of which honored our Most Motivated Student and his parents. Mike S. is counting down the days to the imminent birth of his baby. And we sang for Sal- HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SAL! |