Minutes complied by Diane Eckberg

The November 23, 2021 meeting was called to order by President Jim Street at 7:48 a.m. at the F.A.R.M. Cafe in Boone, NC.  

After the Pledge of Allegiance, Sergeant at Arms Nick Friedman collected Happy Dollars.  This listing is incomplete, as the Secretary could not capture all of the information while on Zoom.

1. Nick Friedman was pleased to introduce guest Dr. Leon Patterson.  Nick is happy to be back and has 4 dozen eggs for sale/CART donation.
2. Mac Forehand is feeling better and happy to be back.
3. Gary Plaag shared the bittersweet news that his father passed away, ending a 7 year Alzheimer journey.
4. Brian Irving shared that the Interact Club participated in the wood ministry on November 20.
5. Ben Henderson enjoyed a James Taylor concert.

Announcements

1.  Ben Henderson reminded all that fruit orders for home/business delivery can be placed through December 12, 2021.  Cash donations are welcomed as well.

2.  John Cooper announced that Boone Sunrise Rotary is officially partnering with ASU and the Appalachian Theatre in hosting Jazz Fest the weekend of June 10-11, 2022.  We’ll be soliciting sponsorships and assisting at the Fest activities.  Stay tuned for more information.

3.  Ben Henderson shared that Club Member Roger Wright passed away on Sunday, November 21.  Information regarding services will be shared when available.

4.  Gary Moss and Lynne Mason announced a Holiday Club Service Project:  Hunger and Health Coalition’s “Sharing Tree.”  Gift cards from local grocery stores and cash donations will be collected.  Suggested minimum for the gift cards is $25.  Stay tuned for more details.

5.  Jim Street announced that there is not an available site for the November 30 meeting so it is cancelled.  In lieu of that meeting, members are encouraged to gather at the Watauga Community Recreation Center (231 Complex Drive) on Wednesday, December 1 from 4-6 p.m. for a Hot Chocolate Social.  The Hot Chocolate Social is part of Western Youth Network’s “Festival of Trees.”  Wreaths will be available for purchase, and visitors can tour the center.  

6.  F.A.R.M. Cafe Director of Operations Elena Dalton spoke about their key programs, including Kids Eat Free, Food Recovery and Redistribution, Token/Pay it Forward, and Local Food Purchasing.  Donations and/or volunteering are encouraged to cover meal costs.  Efforts are underway to expand and upgrade the current building, which will cost $40,000+.  To learn more, visit https://farmcafe.org/

7.  Jim Street advised that Hanes Boren and Nick Friedman are researching 3 venues for the December 14 holiday party.  Details to be announced soon!

Program

Brian Irving introduced Steve Marks, who talked about “Assuring Quality of Life by Being Prepared.”  Steve addressed End of Life Preparedness and Disaster Preparedness.

Regarding End of Life Preparedness, Steve urged everyone to have conversations with loved ones before the need arises.  He also complimented the staff at Watauga Regional Medical Center for its compassion.

Regarding Disaster Preparedness, time has dramatically changed the most important “must haves.”  While water was the number one item to have on hand 20 years ago, today a cell phone with plenty of battery capacity/backup is key.   In addition, water, non-perishable foods, medications, flashlights, batteries and pet supplies are important to have in the event of a disaster.

After the reciting of the 4 Way Test, President Jim Street adjourned the meeting at 8:28 a.m.