Rotary Spoke 09 14 15
Posted by Edmund Grant
on Sep 14, 2015
Denise DeSimone Speaks to Rotary
On this beautiful, sunny and pleasantly cool Monday, President Dominic kicked off our first really Fall weather meeting. No more dog days of August or depressed media air from “Deflate Gate.” PP Dave S did the Pledge (of Allegiance); PP Spencer B or his ventriloquist led the 1st verse of America; and PP/PDG Jack M inspired us with convocation; no prayers were needed for Tom Terrific, Gronk or the Patriots after Thursday’s opening performance. Following Waxy’s usual buffet vittles, Charlie V led the Welcome song without a lag or gag.
Secretary Julianne D counted 22 Lexington Rotarians and two guests, both sitting at the only fine-exempt table and introduced by PP Jim S. Other than Pres. Dominic fining himself for a cell phone false start, it was such a fine day that there weren’t any.
Happy Dollars however filled the air like intercepted passes and blocked punts. Sgt. at Arms Steve M celebrated the first day of Youth Hockey despite its 94° temperature. PP Dan B and PP Frank S paid for being first-time “empty nesters” (for now) as daughters left for a new nursing job and first year of college. PP Spencer B paid $20 for marital bliss including 2 kids, 2 horses, and still being happy; we are still waiting for confirmation from his wife as to whether the $20 should really be a fine for excessive celebration.
Despite a delay of game, one year moratorium on new banks in Lexington Center, raffle gifts were donated by Walpole Cooperative, Patriot Community and People’s Heritage Banks; Arlex Oil (somehow exempt from Bank regulations), Lexington Colonial Times and Vail Studios also contributed.
Announcements: Sgt. at Arms Steve M said the 50/50 Raffle will be held Friday, Nov. 13, noting the legendary efforts of PP Dave E, who yearly sold at least 75 tickets, and that we need all our members to step up and buy more to replace his loss.
PP Jim S introduced Jim Tarpey, a prospective new member with classification of insurance agent, which has been approved by the Board for the required 7 day notice. We hope he has a sense of humor, he will need it. PP Jim S reported Senior BBQs are scheduled for Sept. 22, 23, 24, with more Rotarians needed for Sept. 23 and 24.
Pres. Dominic reiterated a goal during his year that each member invite a friend for lunch and some fun. I guess our gong show does qualify as halftime entertainment. Pres. Dominic also reminded that member invoices are due within 30 days, and if not paid within 10 additional days thereafter, Rotary Bylaws require suspension of membership.
PP Dan B introduced our speaker, Denise DeSimone, author, speaker, singer and ordained interfaith minister, who spoke of the power of self-care and self-love in the healing process. She gave quite an inspirational talk of recovery, having survived Stage IV throat and neck cancer which led to her book, From Stage IV to Center Stage. Ten years ago she was given three months to live, and 22 months after being told she might not sing again, she sang the National Anthem at Fenway Park in front of 37,000 people. Her story has been shared on Inside Edition, Fox News and NBC’s Daytime Show. She can add surviving our meeting as another accomplishment.
To learn more about Denise and her accomplishments go to: www.denisedesimone.com
PP Jim S scooped the 50/50 Raffle for $55 which gave him enough, we think, to buy 2 copies of Denise’s new book for further inspiration.
Game Over. Fines and suspensions were continued until next meeting but don’t tell the NFL. Go Pats.
Cheers ─ PP Ed G
