ROTARY CLUB OF EVERETT
Meeting number 5561 of September 10, 2024, which was the 11th meeting of President Michael Kvistad, was called to order at 12:03pm. President Michael led the members in the Pledge of Allegiance.
SONG OF THE DAY:
Mark Valentine sang a very pretty ballad entitled, “Still the One.”
INTRODUCTION OF VISITING ROTARIANS AND GUESTS:
President Michael introduced the guests which included Ralph’s wife Kay, about-to-be new member, Cassidy, Russ Hermes introduced his guest, Alexander Morrison, and Wick Temple (from days gone by).
Cassidy’s election to the club was announced.
THOUGHT OF THE DAY:
Kelli Thode delivered the Thought of the Day. In honor of Ralph Quaas’ 60th anniversary as a Rotarian of the Everett Club, Kelli reviewed the “5-way test.”
The club played “Guess Who”, Ryan Willis gave the answers while Betsy Baker-Bold kept track of the names of those who guessed. Ralph was the answer. Janice Ellis was the winner and received the Apple Award.
MEMBERSHIP MOMENT:
Larry O’Donnell gave a testimony to the Service Above Self volunteerism, support and true inspiration of Ralph Quaas for his years in the club. Called him a Volunteer of the Century.
Amy Norman gave a tearful testimony to Ralph for his loyalty and service to the club. She stated that she never saw him turn down a request to help or serve on a committee. She showed a few pictures of Ralph including one as an ugly stepsister and another as a Rotary cheerleader.
ANNOUNCEMENT:
Announcement came from Ed Petersen about service above self, 1 yr ago today the club from Dajabon came to visit. One of their members passed away very recently and had given her house to their club to use for the last 26 years. This is the same house they were welcomed into 9 years ago. They are very sad about the loss of their member but are happy about the completion of the Dajabon project grant and their appreciation of Rotary’s help in its success. Their Greenhouse Project submitted their final report, and the foundation closed the grant. Ed thanked everyone for their participation and support and recommended the grant for publicity. Next trip will be in November.
President Michael reminded us of the resurgence of polio in Gaza, the first case in 25 years, and that November is Foundation Month headed this year by John Olson, PP.
Kari explained a photograph and talked about Ralph joining Rotary in 1961 and his travels to Germany.
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HAPPY DOLLARS AND BIRTHDAY BUCKS:
Bob Bavasi gave Rose Goulet a pin in memory of her father, a little garbage can. He also mentioned her son who works with his daughter.
Ed Peterson celebrated his and his wife Carol’s, 56th anniversary and his 78th birthday.
Amy Norman celebrated her 30th (and Michael’s) anniversary.
Betsy Baker-Bold went to Tennessee to see her new grand-niece.
Wick Temple celebrated 35 years and a grandbaby.
RAFFLE:
The raffle prizes were drawn by Ryan Willis won by Mark Valentine, Kari Quaas, and Amy Norman.
Jim Staniford distributed cupcakes in honor of Ralph.
PROGRAM: Schack Art Center
President Michael introduced Readle Alburn from the Schack Art Center. The Schack is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Readle told us about the development of the Schack, the services it offers including art classes, promoting artists and their development as artists, glass blowing, opportunities for youth including summer camp art groups. She described Oct 12, 1-3 pm unveiling by James Madison and other events.
MEETING ADJOURNED:
President Michal thanked bell-ringers Bob and Ed for their contributions and wished everyone a good week. Meeting adjourned.
NEXT PROGRAM: West Coast Minor League & Washington Wolfpack
Respectfully Submitted,
Barb George
Photography Submitted by,
Walt Greenwood