Members and guests from the Parks gathered for our weekly meeting, President Cassidy began with the Pledge of Allegiance, the Rotary four-way test, and quote from the Dalai Lama
Notes from our Parks and Recreation Guests:
Josh Medeiros & Ariana Theriault: Discussed the growth and success of Downtown Live. The cultural center, which started with one show per month, now offers three shows monthly. They aim to bring in more sponsorships from local businesses for events like the summer concert series. Recent revenue of $50k shows growth. Upcoming events include Soul Sound Review this weekend and affordable ticket options like $5 Throwback Thursday movies and free summer events. Open mic nights also offer local poets a platform. Visit: https://downtownlivect.com/
Amery (Recreation Program): Updates on Pine Lake’s climbing tower and bathroom facility. Amery discussed the summer recreation camps, specialty programs, and increased participation in the 6/30-8/15 timeframe. Programs also include team-building opportunities and the Little Explorers camp for younger children. Gave an update on various recreational activities, including Pickleball and Pony League. Amery highlighted the summer camps from June 30 to August 15, expecting 300 kids per week, with many returning staff.
Aubrey Moniker (Social Services): Shared updates on services for families in need. They support individuals aged 18-55, particularly through the Parent & Child Center. The center is preparing for Child Abuse Awareness Month in April and is focusing on collecting diapers and wipes. With diaper prices rising 85%, donations are crucial. The center serves families with limited resources and works on initiatives like the Fatherhood Initiative and Little Free Library. Also noted, with eviction rates rising and COVID funds disappearing, families are relying on donations for basic needs.
Exciting Ornament Update
This year's Rotary Pewter collectible ornament will feature St. Anthony + St. Ann Church - The design has been sent to Woodbury Pewter, and Tom expects ornaments will be ready by the end of March.
Bristol Rotary was represented at the BBGC/Imagination Bowling Fundraiser. Thank you to Peter who donated a wine basket to the raffle. It was great fun!
Happy Bucks
Tom, worked for the park dept 5 years and outlived 5 superintendents, sad Bob Montgomery died, scheduled a cruise with Terry's help, and headed to Bermuda in August
Ken, Thank you to our guest speakers
Norm, Thank you to our guest speakers
Dale, Thank you to our guest speakers, attended a city govt. where they discussed selling the building, glad it didn’t happen
Judi Ann, thank you parks dept, hope Lee and Claudette are doing will, UConn
John, all you coming in, proud, sad Notre Dame broke the winning streak
Terry, speakers
Laura, house contract, great time in FL, vacation with mom & day, many great memories with parks & rec, swim class, summer gymnastics, art class
Josh, Thank you for inviting us, we have a great team / staff
Bristol Rotary Club corporate dues 2025 are due by July 1, 2025. There is an installment option. Contact Mary or Terry for more information. Thank you!
The Karl J. Schwartz Scholarship Due March 18, 2025
Please share - the application open to graduating seniors from Bristol, Burlington, Plainville, Plymouth, Southington, or Terryville who want to enroll in full-time undergraduate study at an accredited 4-year college or university. https://learnmore.scholarsapply.org/bristolrotary/
Mini Grant Applications Due March 25, 2025
We are currently accepting applications to non-profit organizations and programs serving local youth