A happy group of Rotarians came out on a sunny, warm, and “blue-sky” day at the Doubletree. President Marion Beckerink presided over the meeting, which started with the National Anthem led by Caitlin O’Reilly.

President-Elect Michelle Jones introduced Matt Clark of the Doubletree, who with Brandon O’Dell, will form a Doubletree membership to the club.

Michelle announced that she will meet with members one-on-one to discuss what type of meeting schedules we like and what members enjoy or don’t enjoy about Rotary. She encouraged us to contact her if we have feedback for her before she becomes President.

John Felton thanked the members who assisted him with interviewing students at Jamestown High School and said he would possibly organize a similar procedure for Falconer High School. The Rotary activity helps students learn interview skills.

Tory Irgang announced Join CHQ, a community fair from noon, Saturday, March 29, at the Reg Lenna. A documentary and a local short film featuring local groups and Marion (!) will be shown. Area clubs and non-profits will have tables to chat with attendees about volunteer opportunities.  Tory said studies indicate that people live longer and better-quality lives when they volunteer. The Community Foundation, Live CHQ, Choose CHQ and the Chautauqua Collective sponsor the free and fun event.

Emily Cama invited everyone to next Tuesday night’s FARCH gathering at the Ice Arena from 6-8 p.m., which will include a potluck dinner, an open bar, and the opportunity to try curling and bumper cars from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Please sign up on the Rotary website and remember to bring a dish to pass. The activity is open to all family members and is “kid-friendly.”

Cheri Krull said applications for Junior RYLA are ready. It’s a May 2-4 leadership opportunity in Ontario for 15-18-year-olds. Anyone interested in applying to attend from our club should contact Cheri. Our club pays for the weekend.

Jen Swan-Leuze explained that we need a volunteer to read any Wednesday in March from 1:15-1:45 and possibly in April, to read with children about the “Rotary Ideals” materials. She thanked

Diana Meckley has already done it two times. Contact Jen if you’re interested in helping.

Joni Blackman announced the March birthdays of Doug Conroe and Dudley Ericson, March 10; Robert Anderson and Cheri Krull, March 23; Gail Donus, March 21; and Pat Kinney, March 28. Doug won the free lunch.

Caitlin O’Reilly noted that the Doubletree is proposed for membership, with Brandon O’Dell and Matt Clark joining. Jennifer Lundmark of Cummins joins at the end of the month.

Dewey Jones won $30 for the 50/50 with tickets sold by Matt Clark. Dewey contributed his winnings to the club.

Doug Conroe fined Tim Edborg, Jason Sample, Amy Rohler & Kristin Melville for various items in the paper.

For Happy Bucks, Tim Edborg recounted the horrifying experiences he and his wife had traveling to California; and then after during the California wildfires to have Lianne’s treatments at the City of Hope and the UCLA Medical Center. They had scary experiences, including having to escape from the fires. Lianne is being treated every other week in California, and Tim is traveling back and forth. He thanked us for our prayers.  On a fun note, his nephew was at the Oscars with his girlfriend Miley Cyrus!

Sue Jones reported that her brother-in-law, who had a cardiac arrest, is now doing well. Ruth Lundin said she enjoys the birds starting their spring songs gradually—first the chickadees, then the cardinals, the mourning doves, the red-wing blackbirds, and now the bluebirds. Jason Sample talked about Paint CHQ, a mural festival in September. There are community meetings about it coming up, and he’s asking artists and others to volunteer.

Mike Roberts said Dan Overcash, who always attends online, has been a Rotarian since 1977.

The Ag Day reading at Bush School is filled, and Diana Meckley suggested that someone organize it at Ring School.

Heath of Australia, our exchange student, will be in Les Miserable at JHS from 3/13-15.

Tory Irgang could use more volunteers for the spring grant reviews. At least 40 organizations are applying for money. If interested, contact Tory.