Wayne Gersen will introduce Judy Csatari who, in turn, will introduce the Prouty’s Executive Director, Jaclynn Rodriquez.  

 

 

And with our return we will also return to our “traditional” meeting format: convening and noon and beginning with a pledge to the flag, words of wisdom from one of our members, a chance to dine together and have conversations outside of Zoom boxes with the serving to be completed by 12:20, listening to a compelling talk from a speaker beginning at roughly 12:30, listening to equally compelling announcements followed by a talk from one of our Rotary club members, and concluding at 1:15 with our motto. It’s been a while since we did this so it is possible I got something wrong but the important thing is to be there at Jesse’s at noon. 

 

A couple of notes from Rod Thomas, our intrepid meal organizer: the NEW Jesse’s lunch consists of a bacon-cheddar burger, OR a sugar shack chicken burger OR a homemade veggie burger. This grilled burgers will be accompanied by a small salad, a cookie, and coffee, tea, or soda. The cost will be $20 which includes tax and a tip. 

 

 

We will continue with Zoom, which will be “broadcast” via zoom. Those on Zoom who wish to pose a question to the speaker should use the “raise hand” feature and wait patiently for someone to notice. I expect there will be a few glitches in the first week, but we should get them hammered out by May. Here’s the link: 

 

Join Zoom Meeting

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88229582283?pwd=aS9Hd3o1cS9ZK0hQL0ZhUHZXSEdxQT09

 

Meeting ID: 882 2958 2283

Password: 254494

 

The Zoom Room opens at 11:45 AM… BUT, as noted above, the actual talk will not begin until roughly 12:20.

 

 

Wayne Gersen introduced Shari Boraz, Executive Director of the AVA gallery in Lebanon. Shari described a history of AVA, which was originally located on Allen Street in Hanover before moving to its current location just off the Lebanon Green in an old Carter Underwear factory. She reported that AVA is looking forward to celebrating its 50^thAnniversary in 2024 and described the many offerings at the gallery which, in addition to artist’s studios, include after-school programs for school children, a digital art program, and many lectures and art displays that are open to the public. She described the challenges of operating out of a mid-19^th Century building and the investments the Board made over the years to make the space functional. She indicated that AVA is planning to clean out its basement storage area and put items treasures in the basement on sale in late April. 

 

 

Dick Booma, last week’s “Rotarian of the Week”, gave us an overview of his career which included stints at Liberty Mutual insurance (which he loathed), Polaroid (which he loved), and for a “low tech” printing company before he acquired Hanover Transfer shortly after his 55^th birthday. He expressed his appreciation for Bill Breed, who introduced him to Hanover Rotary in 1997 and described the extensive service he has given to the club since then. A Dartmouth, alum, Dick and his family spent as much time in the summer as possible on the Grants in Northern NH. When he isn’t wandering in the woods up there, Dick enjoys cycling and supporting Dartmouth athletics, particularly ice hockey, the sport he excelled in.  

 

 

David Allen repeated his plea for some Rotarians to join the Board so the club can get the benefit of as many minds as possible when planning activities and event and someone to step up to be chairman of the membership committee to take Dick Podolec’s place in July. He also announced that Ryan Flatley is now an official club member and reminded us that on April 16 the Lebanon Rotary Club will be collecting Styrofoam to help keep it from clogging up the landfill (and our garages, basements, and attics). Finally, he announced that club members might consider joining in a community effort to fix up the Old Dartmouth Cemetery on May 6, noting that a free lunch will be provided for those who work the entire day. 

 

Rod Thomas announced we’d be returning to Jesse’s, providing much of the information outlined above and reminding members that we operate in a cash or check economy. 

 

Dick Podolec announced that the Rotary Friendship Exchange will re-start in 2022 with a trip to Scotland followed by a 2023 opportunity to visit Turkey. Details are available on the district eb site. Applications for this year’s Scotland trip are due on May 1.  

 

Bruce Atwood reminded club members that November 17 is our gala and auction. 

 

COMING ATTRACTIONS:  

 

April 13 – Dick Podolec introduces Dartmouth President Phil Hanlon

 

April 20 – Wayne Gersen will introduce Leona Bergman-Gaul who has launched a Welcome Wagon initiative under the umbrella of Vital Communities

 

April 27 – Julia Griffin introduces Rob Hausman from the Hanover Town Office who will provide us with an overview of the town’s DRAFT Sustainability Plan.  

 

May 4 – Wayne Gersen introduces Tom List and Kim Chambers from Hanover Adventures who will tell us about the exciting opportunities they offer

 

May 11 – Kevin Wenger will introduce Eve Loomis, Habitat for the Humanity’s ED

 

We’re now fully booked through June 15! Thanks to those who have suggested speakers and offered contact information… but more ideas are always greatly appreciated! Summer will be here sooner than we think!

 

Wayne Gersen