CHIPS MARCH 16th, 2015

Jim Rumrill of Ludlow Club, Bill Perkins of South Club, Matt Parker, guest of Joan Watson and Javiera Fuentes, Exchange student

 

Lou spoke of the brainstorming session for the Centennial Project. I believe the date is November 17th. Basically, Lou does not want anyone to be judged by throwing out ideas. We will keep an objective mind and try to remember that we are striving to make a lasting, real impact on the human condition in OUR area of the world (i.e Rutland). This isn't about just donating money, so come up with ideas that will help us lead to the betterment of our community.

 

Jeff W. said the Department of Public Works is hosting a St. Patty's Sewer separation project in the NW neighborhoods, so be cognizant.

 

Tom D. reminded Lou that St. Patrick was also a great leader and Lou reminded Tom that St. Patrick was Italian. Tom announced the chamber mixer.

 

Chuck told us the fundraiser is off to a great start. Let him know if you need raffle tix, brochures, etc. Golf tournament is on June 24th.

 

Joan gave us an update on just how many projects and organizations our service projects committee has helped.

 

Will told us about the committee that is being started between our club and the South Club to foster a relationship to help Boys N Girls Club.

 

We are also going to be sending cases of Girl Scout Cookies to our troops overseas.

 

Matt came in to speak to our club about the experience he had as a teenager in High School when he went to Rotary Outdoor Leadership Camp. He said it was a 7 day leadership program that divided the kids into different jobs or professions. Some were "community leaders", others worker bees, but the goal was to try to make everyone more civic minded and understanding of what it takes to be a leader. Joan would like to start a camp like this for youth in the area.

 

Sonia won the raffle! $35 in little. ....no such luck on the big pot....

 

Javiera Fuentes and Jim Rumrill (Javiera is an exchange student through Rotary from Chile'. Jim is the Exchange Chair for the Ludlow Club. Jim said that the exchange program is life changing for these kids. Jim wants to see clubs become more involved with the students when they are here. He would like a committee set up to really help Caprice as it is easy for one person to become overwhelmed with everything. Jim mentioned the kids love being able to just do things with you. He was taking Javie skiing tomorrow. Simple things like bowling or a movie can help.

Javie told us she is 17 years old and had only taken basic English before coming here. She said that this has been the best year of her life so far. Vermont and USA are now her second home. She said when people invite her to spend time with them, it means a lot to her.

 

Caprice attested to the program and said she gets sooo much more out of it than what she puts it. Very rewarding.