Rotary Log October 30, 2014
The meeting began with a moment of silence for the passing of iconic Boston Mayor Tom Menino. John Rice then led the club in a chorus of “This Land is Your Land.” The song was to acknowledge upcoming state-wide and national elections.
Leonard Seagren introduced new member Coast Guard Chief Boatswains Mate David Andreesen.
David is officer-in-charge of the Portsmouth Harbor Coast Guard station. He is a 15-year resident of Kittery. David mentioned that he has visited Rotary clubs across the United States. He feels that the New England chapter and our club in particular take action seriously.
President Trish called for Happy Dollars. Sue Philbrick, one of our wait staff, responded with $10.00 thanking us for support during a time of personal difficulty. Moe Sullivan gave $20.00 as promised for obtaining her PHD.
Guest speaker this week was gubernatorial candidate Republican Walt Havenstein. Walt began his speech with happy dollars for his two granddaughters. He also thanked Stella Scamman for her recent support. Walt explained that his reason for running was because there are fewer and fewer job opportunities in our state. He gave the example of his son moving to Texas to further his career because there was no work here. A consistent theme during the speech was alignment of state high school and college education with local job opportunities.
Rotarian Walter Liff wanted to know where Havenstein would find the 25,000 new jobs that he has mentioned in past debates. Havenstein replied that he would introduce a competitive tax structure giving more opportunity to private sector new businesses.
Rotarian Russ Grazier asked if Havenstein favors taxing non-profits that earn more than $2 million annually.
“I am not for that,” Walt immediately replied.
There were questions relating to college debt and lack of available trade workers. Walt again stressed the need to align skills with work opportunities while in school. He suggested bringing trade classes back into schools. Havenstein further noted that it’s not good when people earn more by just staying at home. Those same people should be entering the work force, he maintained, and understanding the “nobility of work.”
The meeting concluded with announcements. Christmas tree sale sign-ups are still available.
Thanksgiving dinner volunteers are needed. Christmas wreath orders open until Thursday November 6th.
Submitted by Tristan Shanley
Photos by Jim Rini http://www.clubrunner.ca/portal/Journals/JournalDetails.aspx?accountid=6644&jid=61517
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