RCGC Meeting Recap: Friday, December 11, 2015
By Gerry Kosanovic, President
It was a GREAT day to be a Rotarian. When the club is forced to add another table, it is a sign of a vibrant club and energetic fellowship. The December 11th meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance, then I paid tribute to the late Mario Pastega, describing him as a Rotarian, a family man, a businessman, a philanthropic benefactor, a humanitarian, a patron of his community, an educator, a veteran, and a loyal steadfast true friend to the Corvallis Community. A short video tribute followed in fond remembrance of Mario, who would have celebrated his 99th birthday on December 16th. Ken Haines introduced visiting Rotarians Barb Clauson and from the Pete Sekermestrovich from the Thursday Club, Rob Thompson from Newport, and exchange students Franka Simkova, Cindel Tolava, and our own Franziska. We also welcomed Rotarian guests Terrri Houde, guest of Joseph Bailey, Heather Bodenhamer, guest of Kate Lacey, Erica Jensen, guest of Travis Harper, Carla Francis, guest of Becki Goslow, Gary Pastega, guest of Ken Pastega, Julie Mitchell and Ali Bonokdar, guests of Charlie Mitchell, Tim Euhus, guest of Doug Oxsen, Ryan Huddleston, guest of Lauren Gallegos, and Michele Mincinski, guest of Randy Dobson.
Announcements:
Lee Eckroth is in New Orleans at this time, caring for his wife who is having surgery. The thoughts and prayers of club members are with Michelle and Lee and we extend our sincere wishes for a successful outcome.
Doug Oxsen thanked the volunteers who provided service to CARDV, transporting Christmas gifts from Philomath to Corvallis. Much appreciated annual event.
Ted Anderson & Don Klaus announced December birthdays and membership anniversaries, then leading the club in a not well-tuned birthday song. 😀
Glenda & Stan Baker made one last pitch for the upcoming Holiday Party that will be held at the Country Club on Thursday, December 17th. Stan shared stories from children of poverty that benefit from contributions to the Student Opportunity for Success Fund, our holiday focus for giving this year.
Kathleen Hutchinson announced that the Rotary Day Holiday Children’s Fair needs volunteers and assistance. She is confident that it will be spectacular and fun for kids of all ages.
Pete Sekermestrovich announced that Town & Country Realty is showing a free movie at the Whiteside: Santa Clause 2. All are invited.
Ken Pastega expressed his heartfelt appreciation to all for helping with the annual Pastega Christmas Light Display. He said it’s better than ever and a joy to see, running through Christmas.
Jim Swinyard reminded members that donations to the Rotary Foundation could be deducted from 2015 taxes…contact Jim for end of year contributions.
Dolf Devos announced the Praffle results: winner of the Huskie Praffle: Lu Ratz; winner of the Civil War Praffle: Tom Nelson. Congratulations and thanks to both Dolf Devos and Stewart Laney for the season long work to raise funds for the PolioPlus Foundation.
The featured speakers for the meeting was entertainment – the clear sparkling voices of the Corvallis High School Sparta Capella. The group performed an sampling of their holiday music, captivating the luncheon crowd and entertaining everyone in attendance. We provided them with an appreciation check of $225 to help defray costs associated with their travel and music expenses. Kudos and bravo to this fantastic group of singers.
We ran out of time to hear Andrea Myhre’s vocational – and with apologies have scheduled it for the New Year. Thanks, Andrea for your understanding.
New Member Proposal: Erica Jensen, staff accountant and CPA candidate with Spectrum CPA Group. Proposed by Travis Harper.
The annual “Bragging Rights College Bowl Mania” is back – last year’s winner Van Melick returned the trophy that he won that is now up for grabs. Anyone can enter – always free, fun, and unpredictable. Entry must be received (or post marked) before first bowl game on December 19th. To obtain a copy – see Gerry Kosanovic or e-mail request to: drgerryk@gmail.com
Next Meeting – Holiday Party on Thursday, December 17th.
Next formal meeting on January 8th, 2016 – If I don’t see you at the Holiday Party, on behalf of the Rotary Club of Greater Corvallis, have a great holiday break, a Merry Christmas, and a fantastic start to the New Year.
