Posted by Jeff Benson on Dec 18, 2018

Because a larger than normal group was expected for our annual Irondale Choir Concert and Carol Sing-Along, the meeting was held in Risdall Marketing Group’s spacious meeting room.  Many thanks to Ted Risdall and staff for their graciousness in hosting the event.  The Exchange provided such a delicious Christmas meal that your editor needed a brief nap before beginning to write this bulletin.  Dave Hoel did a great job of putting all the pieces together for the meeting that is, for many, the best meeting of the year.

 

As many of you already know, Co-President John Marg-Patton passed away last weekend after a protracted battle with cancer.  John’s wife Ruth was present today and talked about John’s final days with remarkable composure.  NBMV Rotarians are invited to attend a visitation beginning at noon on Friday, December 28th, with meditation music at 1:30PM, celebration of John’s life at 2:00PM and reception to follow; all at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 1900-7th Street NW, New Brighton.  If desired, donations may be made to the New Brighton Mounds View Rotary Club.  Click here to download the obituary.

 

Director Jason Etten and the Irondale Choir treated us to an eclectic mix of Holiday music.  First up was the girls Diva Group.  In past years they were the “Diva Dozen” but the great talent pool at Irondale has swelled their number to sixteen.  (See below)

The Guyz Group also numbered 16 this year, and among them were several freshmen.  Hats off to director Etten for attracting so many males to the choir program.  (Photo below)

Both groups joined together for the final two songs, which really showcased these very talented young singers.

 

The concert was followed by our traditional Carol sing-along with the choir.  Many thanks to the Choir, Director Ettten and accompanist Steve Ferkus for fitting us into their busy Holiday performance schedule.  Co-President Cindy Carlson presented a check for $500 to the Choir on behalf of the club.

 

Nicole Ulrich has accepted her nomination as President-Elect Nominee for the 2020-21 Rotary Year.  Congratulations, Nicole.

 

Our club’s 40th Anniversary Celebration is set for February 23rd.  Anyone interested in providing input on the party should show up at Win Insurance Agency, 2704 NE Highway 10, Wednesday December 19th at 4:15PM.  We’d like to invite previous NBMV Rotary members to the party, so if you have addresses for previous members of our club, please get those addresses to George Winiecki.

 

Because the Anniversary Celebration is so soon after the holidays, we will forego the Club holiday party this year.

 

Watch your email for the latest version of the proposed revision of the Club By-Laws.  Contact any Board member with your input.

 

Cindy noted that our Harvest Pack Event was a great success.  The Irondale student body, Eagle’s Club, Lion’s club and NBMV Rotary combined to pack 35,000 meals for those in need.  Meal packs will go to Puerto Rico and also to feed hungry families right here in our own community.  Well done!

 

John Ordway reminded us to get our dues in by December 27 so he can close the books for the quarter.

Our January 29th noon meeting will be our Annual Meeting…all club members are encouraged to attend.