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President Benjamin opened the meeting on time (second week in a row) asking Aaron Donahue to lead the pledge. This was followed by the Thought of the Day from PP Gordon Fell who stated what surprised the Dalai Lama was “that man sacrifices so much in his life in anxious living that when he dies, he never really had a chance to live.” This was followed by PP Ed Gauld leading a sing-along of “Home on the Range.”
Special guests included Rotaractor Zack Foster, Angus McClure former UCLA Assistant football coach and guest of Bill Roen, and Matt Uan someone who use to own an AI business but has since sold it.
President Ben announced collection of donations are now being accepted by WVRC for the fire victims. School supplies and shoes are needed but gift cards and blankets are also welcome. Bring your donation to this Thursday’s meeting.
PP Steve Day then took the microphone to present Paul Harris Fellow multiple-year pins thanking the recipients, PP Nancy McCready 2-year pin, Jim Crane 3-year pin, and John O’Keefe 4-year pin for their $1,000 annual donation.
PP Tom Barron who was out with a cold (get well soon Tom) was not able to introduce his speaker this week, so President Benjamin did the honors.
James Andrew Dickman has always been fascinated by history and storytelling. Born and raised in a family that valued education and literature, James began writing in his youth and has maintained a personal journal since 1977. After earning a degree in English Literature from UCLA, he managed a family deli-meat business before dedicating himself fully to writing. His experiences in life, from managing a business to engaging with different cultures, enrich his novels with authenticity and depth. Now a published author, he spends his time between writing, enjoying family life with his wife and grandchildren, and engaging in community activities. He finds comfort with his animals and spending time in nature as well.
As a lover of history, Jim wrote a patriotic, historical romance novel about the American Revolution: “The Rebel, Isidor Samuels,” which was published last year. The book begins in Newport, Rhode Island in 1775. It is about espionage during and before the Revolutionary War and, the how and why the war started. It is also an inspirational coming of age love story about two young lovers torn apart by the Revolutionary War and other evil forces. The novel follows Isidor a young man caught between his revolutionary ideals and the complexities of love and loyalty.
It is a very popular book and one among many the author has written.
The author had a few books for sale but, you can also get it online at Amazon and other bookstores.
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