The Dec. 18, 2023, Annual Meeting of the Rotary Club of Jamestown was called to order by President Ruth Lundin who led the Pledge of Allegiance, the Star-Spangled Banner, the recitation of the Four-Way Test, followed by John Healy giving the invocation.

 

A WONDERFUL crowd of Rotarians showed up for this last meeting of 2023 and enjoyed a Make-Your-Own Taco Bar. It was just like old times and appreciated and mentioned by everyone!

 

Visiting Rotarians and Guests: included future Rotarians Zack Agett and Jen Swan-Leuze and Doubletree General Manager Brandon and Catering Manager Jessica, who accepted a tip from the Club for their service over the past year.

 

First up was Mike Roberts of the Auction Committee, who shared his GREAT enthusiasm for the new and improved plans for the Rotary Auction, scheduled for May 18 at Moon Brook Country Club. We are planning a GREAT event and looking for every member to participate in some special way. Mike mentioned several corporations who have already stepped up as sponsors or donated auction items. Mike recently attended an auction event in Warren, PA for the YMCA led by Chuck and Ben Ludwig and related the many changes in posting, registration, bidding, and payment that have been made by the Auction company. Mike’s enthusiasm is contagious, and he hopes everyone will contemplate how they can be a significant part of this wonderful FUN-draiser.

 

The Rotary Club of Jamestown, The Rotary Club of Falconer and the Greater Jamestown AM Rotary Club will join forces again this coming February 24, 2024, to raise funds to acknowledge the Coldest Night of the Year. Members will participate by soliciting pledges as they walk through town to bring attention to those who need assistance to live in the cold in our community.  MORE INFORMATION TO FOLLOW!

 

A REQUEST FROM THE MANAGEMENT OF THE DOUBLETREE HOTEL – Please take only one (1) COOKIE – if there are some remaining after everyone has received one, more will be passed. Also remember that the cookies can be purchased 10 for $9.00 at the Hotel registration desk!

 

A Christmas gift was presented to our exchange student Joaquin by Chris Anderson, compliments of the Club and arranged by Cheri Krull.

 

Thanks to Max Eimiller from all of us for bringing forth the idea of the miniature golf Pub Crawl. The Club made over $1,000. First Place was won by Dee’s team from the Green Door Tavern and Second Place by the male team from John Felton’s Southern Chautauqua Federal Credit Union. Thanks to all who participated and all who volunteered to make it happen!

 

Joelle Washer reminded everyone to look over the wonderful Rotary clothing items that are available to order (SHE SENT YOU AN EMAIL). The many different selections are available in many different colors with a choice of our Club logo or the Rotary International logo. The shop will close on January 7, 2024, and you will be notified when your items are ready.

 

December birthdays were acknowledged for the following: Paul Cesana, 12/1; Andy Goodell, 12/1; Steve Sandberg, 12/2; Greg Jones, 12/4; David Painter, 12/11; Walt Pickut, 12/21; Jim Smith, 12/22; and Ruth Lundin, 12/31.

 

50/50 Raffle: Michelle Jones oversaw the 50/50 which amounted to $75 and was won by hard-working Lisa Goodell.

 

Sergeant at Arms: Doug Conroe levied fines on Dave Painter, Mike Roberts, Amy Rohler, and Russ Diethrick. Happy Bucks were paid by Mark Olson, Walt Pickut, Phil Cala, Emily Cama, John Loyd, Andy Goodell, and Russ Diethrick. LOTS OF FUN – JUST LIKE OLD TIMES!

 

The Annual Meeting of the Rotary Club of Jamestown was called to order by President Ruth Lundin at 12:57. The establishment of a quorum was acknowledged by Secretary Lisa Goodell. Nominating Chairman John Healy presented the following nominees for 2024-2027 Directors of the Rotary Club of Jamestown: John Bauman, Emily Cama, John Felton, and Dan Heitzenrater.

 

They were elected by unanimous ballot.

 

John Healy then read the nominees for 2024-25 Rotary Club of Jamestown Officers:
President, Marion Beckerink; President-Elect, Kirk Young; Vice President, Michelle Jones; Secretary, Walt Pickut; Club Treasurer, George Harper; Past President, Ruth Lundin; Sergeant-at-Arms, Doug Conroe.

 

They were elected by unanimous ballot.

 

The following were nominated for 2024-2027 Rotary Club of Jamestown Community Service Fund Directors:
Lisa Goodell, Eric Harvey, Randy Sweeney, who were all elected by unanimous ballot.

 

RCJCSF, the Club’s 501c.3 will hold their organizational meeting in July and elect officers.

 

Finally, Mike Roberts reported on the recommendation of the Meeting committee. The members investigated 11 different sites and are recommending a six-month contract with the Doubletree Hotel with menus revolving every 13 weeks (3 or 4 lunches will be repeated one time).

 

The Meeting committee is however, recommending a weekly price increase to $20.

 

The committee felt that the parking available and the fact the hotel is handicap accessible is a great plus, if they can improve the quality of the lunch menu, which was assured if we would pay an additional $5.00.
So, as of January 8, 2024, lunch will be $20.00. Thank you to the committee for their hard work.