Rotary Club of Springfield March 20th Bulletin (Mar 19, 2020)

Bert Carter

Given the current events, orders from the governor and recommendations from the CDC, I feel we have no choice but to cancel meetings until at least April 17. This is also consistent with our club policy to not hold a meeting when Springfield schools are closed for weather or another emergency.

I will work with the board of directors to work out how to complete our Raffle drawings.

Please stay safe and healthy during this difficult time.

Bert

FROM THE ROTARY DISTRICT GOVERNOR

On behalf of District Governor Mark Brady:

Dear 7890 Rotarians,

As your District Governor, and in consideration of all the antivirus measures being taken, it is my duty to inform you that all gatherings large or small are now deemed risky business. Mark Maloney has said so in an email and “given us all permission to suspend in person Rotary meetings and events.”
I hereby am giving you permission to do this in 7890.

Let’s keep up what we can by electronic methods so things don’t get out of hand in our projects and future planning. Be sure to notify your scheduled speakers, venues, vendors, etc. I’m sure all will not only understand but support you in erring on the side of safety.

Let’s do this for 30 days, and reevaluate then. This thing may balloon, stay steady, or just die down by then. We’ll never know if all these measures helped the cause of safety, but we can and need to be able to say “we did the best we could.”

Many of our number are over 60, some magic line, and will not it seems tolerate this well.

People quarantined can get food, etc. dropped at their doors by Peapod, and the same with casseroles etc by members. Presidents, form calling trees to find out every member's or prospective member's status. This will be your main job to help watch over your Rotary Family in the time of need.

This can be turned into a positive this way. Nothing is ever all bad, if your eyes and heart are open.

In Rotary Service,

Thank you,

DG Mark

PERSONAL PREVENTION TIPS

Many of the things you do to help prevent colds and the flu can help protect you against other respiratory viruses, including COVID-19:

Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
Clean things that are frequently touched (like doorknobs and countertops) with household cleaning spray or wipes.
Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. Use a tissue or your inner elbow, not your hands.
Stay home if you are sick and avoid close contact with others.

The Gray House 29th Annual Spaghetti Supper

For the past 28 consecutive years, The Gray House has held its Spaghetti Supper which accounts for nearly 10% of the agency’s annual budget and is essential to our operations. Due to COVID-19, The Gray House and the Greek Cultural Center have mutually decided not to hold the event. Instead, we’re hosting a “No Show” Spaghetti Supper!

They recognize that it would be irresponsible to host a gathering of over 400 people, many of whom are vulnerable. However, the need for their services isn’t slowing down. The people most impacted by this pandemic are the vulnerable individuals they serve on a regular basis who need their help more than ever. We are anticipating increased demand for our services, especially in terms of food assistance, due to the economic implications.

In order to ensure they can continue to meet the needs of our neighbors, we hope you’ll participate in their “No Show” Spaghetti Supper! Buy entry tickets but don’t show up! You can make your own spaghetti dinner at home and tune into their Facebook page on Thursday, 3/26! Raffle winners will be drawn via Facebook Live at 5:45pm. Throughout the week leading up to the “event” they will be posting about prizes, recognizing sponsors, donors and sharing the best sauce recipes!

Please consider making a donation for your “ticket” or purchasing raffle tickets. Checks can also be sent to 22 Sheldon Street, Springfield and made payable to 'The Gray House'. Please specify if you would like to buy raffle tickets with your check or if it is a donation. Please share this information with your network to help raise money for our neighbors in need. Spread the word, not the germs!
On behalf of The Gray House, thank you very much.
Sue

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ROTARY MAGAZINE

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