President Alex rang his portable bell at 12:10, leading those in the room in our club’s welcome song and a recitation of the Four-Way Test. Then Maura Callahan offered inspirational words reminding us that small actions, akin to creating ripples, can make significant changes even if individuals cannot change the world.

The group lined up behind our guest, Santo Pirrotta, to enjoy today’s buffet provided by Roma’s – a mixed green salad, two large pizzas, both cheese and meat, and two types of grinders, either tuna or chicken parmesan. Though Guy was elsewhere working, we thank him for arranging today’s bountiful lunch. With just fifteen of us in the room, everything except the salad was gone in a short time!

Alex soon rang the bell to get everyone’s attention and proceeded with today’s club business before our speaker was scheduled to begin.

We were reminded that the District Installation of incoming club presidents and assistant governors will be a brunch at the Log Cabin in Holyoke, Massachusetts. Marc and Bob will be attending.

Alex also mentioned various efforts he has been monitoring including the flag placement on veterans’ graves in cemeteries around town (let Alex know if you want to help with this the morning of May 20, the mobile library, and the pollinator garden at DiPietro Park on Silver Lane. Stay tuned for more information about all of these.

Bob Buettner mentioned that he plans another BBQ at the Senior Center on Wednesday, July 5^th. He will not need many volunteers that day. Stay in touch with Bob if you are interested in being involved.

The Golf Committee continues to meet and work toward a successful, unique spring tournament.

Our speaker today was Ned Morgan. Ned is founder and director of a non-profit called Water Compass https://www.watercompass.org/which is Boston-based but operates in a large, mostly rural area of Uganda. Ned explained how his group’s approach to providing accessible, clean water is making a major difference in the lives of people in the rural areas they serve. He stressed sustainability due to both the technology, solar-powered water pumps as opposed to old-style hand pumps, and the financial model which removes the stigma of having community leaders in charge of collecting fees.

Alex brought the meeting to a close by reading a thoughtful note of thanks from Tim Larson for our club’s having honored him with Paul Harris recognition.

Alex rang the bell to end the meeting at 1:15 PM.

High Gear written this week by Sue Klock. Six weeks in a row but who’s counting? That’s it for Sue for 2023!