Club Meeting – December 22nd, 2016

Today was the first of two holiday season club meetings.  We gathered at our regular Civic Center location to share traditions and memories of Christmases past.  

Ashley Garst recited “Twas the Night Before Christmas” as President Lisa admiringly looked on.  Perhaps reflecting on this being a glimpse of a future Rotary Christmas meeting.

Our Rotary Santa (aka Mark Henrickson)  made a reprise of his Christmas for Kids performance delivering a gift to President Lisa.  Yes, she had been nice!

We then enjoyed the special musical talents of Past President Aaron Garber.  Aaron played and sang a medley Christmas carols.  He finished by inviting all members to sing “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” a favorite of President Lisa.

Jane Johnson told of “Believe It or Not” Christmas gifts she had provided at customer’s requests and of touching memories from previous holiday retail seasons.

Pastor Dan Netting told us two of his favorite Christmas stories that perfectly captured the spirit and meaning of the season.

David “Red” McClung, a respected member since 1953, told club members “Why I Ring the Bell”.  Along with Red’s contributions to the Rotary Club of Salem he has been a member of the Salvation Army for 37 years.  Red spoke of a few of his favorite Salvation Army programs that are supported by contributions to the bell ringers, who brave the cold every holiday season for very worthy causes.

Last but not least was Quinn Mongan, who recited a special SERVPRO rendition of “Twas The Night Before Christmas”.  Quinn’s reading ensured that, if a member didn’t already have a smile on their face, they had one by our meeting’s end.

Our thanks to all the program participants for a good time shared by all!