The Boothbay Harbor Rotary Club members are a diverse group.  We have different views on religion, politics, and probably even the weather. What unites us is the Rotary Foundation motto Service Above Self. Even though we might have different religious or political beliefs, we really believe we can make a positive impact in the world and being a member of Rotary makes that easier and much more fun. 

Last Thursday our own Melody Rees and Phil Kemp talked about a project that Melody started in 2011 in Coastal Kenya with Emmanuel Khoti, a native of Kenya. They are both nurses and share a vision of working together to provide improved access to healthcare and comprehensive support to families with HIV in the Gongoni Region of Coastal Kenya by constructing a multi-purpose health clinic. Phil joined the project in 2015. Medody talked about the people in the region, how kind and welcoming they are despite their extreme poverty. The clinic is now under construction because of their efforts. Melody and Phil shared pictures of the ongoing project including the “bio-digester.” It was inspiring to see this vision turn into reality. This is an amazing project that will make a huge difference for many people.

This Thursday is our annual High School Senior Night, one of the best nights of the Rotary Club year. We welcome all the BRHS seniors to share dinner with us. We get to meet each one, learn what their plans are and come away feeling optimistic about the future because they are all so enthusiastic, fun and from our own hometown. We also get to present five “Service Above Self” scholarships, three for college attendees and two earmarked for vocational school or training. It's a fun night. Come join us and help applaud our young people for their accomplishments and their hopes and dreams. 

We have partnered with the Boothbay Art Foundation. They will be showing their members work at the Clubhouse. Right now, the walls have a wonderful, varied display. This is going to be a beautiful partnership.

The Windjammer Days Parade is Wednesday, June 24 and we're in it again. Meet at the s chool parking lot at 2 p.m. so we can decorate the float. There's no candy throwing this year as requested by the Chamber of Commerce. But, we'll have music, our lighthouse, tinsel and other decorations. The theme is the U.S. Navy, so if you have a Navy uniform wear that with pride. If you have any ideas or suggestions, talk with Lois the Parade Committee Chair. It's always fun. 

The Bike Shed is open for bike lending every Saturday from 9 to 11 a.m. and Thursday from 5 to 6 p.m., 66 Montgomery Road, Boothbay Harbor. Just bring a $100 deposit that is returned when the bike is returned in good condition. We also need a local address and a phone number. 

The big, gray Rotary Club Barn is open every Saturday from 8:30 to 11 a.m. at 66 Montgomery Road, selling furniture, dishes, pots/pans, tools, boats, collectibles, just about anything.  Your donations and purchases support many local and international programs including “Service Above Self” scholarships, the Seasonal Workers bike project, monthly support of the Community Fridge and so much more.

Join us any Thursday at 6 p.m. for dinner and a fun meeting at our Clubhouse, 66 Montgomery Road. You’ll be glad you did.