Service, Smiles & Sea Spray—You Don’t Want to Miss This One
- $1,000 approved for ShelterBox disaster relief efforts
- Support for York Library’s mental health and youth programs
- New "Ideas Committee"
- Inspiring CoastX presentation featuring hands-on ocean learning experiences
This week’s meeting opened with President Jud welcoming guests Ian Grant and Jiff Cornwell from CoastX, along with Pam Gray from the District and Lynn Ross, guest of Scott Brown. Pam led us in the Pledge of Allegiance followed by the 6-Way Test, setting the tone for another thoughtful and energetic gathering.
Jud had prepared in advance for this meeting by offering “bunny ears” and placed the lyrics to an Easter Classic on all of the tables. In true Rotary fashion, Skip brought some lighthearted fun with a spirited (and memorable!) sing-along of “Here Comes Peter Cottontail”—thankfully carrying the group along the way!
Club Business & Announcements
We had a productive round of updates and meaningful decisions:
- ShelterBox Support
In response to global crises including flooding and conflict in Lebanon, the club voted unanimously to donate $1,000 to ShelterBox. Members will also have the opportunity to learn more at our April 11th event, where a ShelterBox display will be featured. - York Public Library Support
Following last month’s presentation, the club approved $2,000 to support the library’s snack and craft program, along with contributions toward a mental health book collection—continuing our commitment to community wellness. - Upcoming Events
- April 10 – Field trip to Footprint Food Pantry (Kittery, 8:00 AM)
- April 30 & May 1 – May Day Basket assembly and delivery
- April 11 – District Opportunity Workshop being held at Westbrook High School from 8AM- 2:30 PM (reach out to Jackie for coordination!)
- CWAC Kickoff Event – April 11, 1–5 PM at Kennebunk Savings Bank
(Featuring food trucks, live music, ticket sales, and the big car reveal!)
- New “Ideas Committee”
Inspired by PELS, we’re embracing innovation! A new committee—led by Skip—will focus on fresh ideas and new approaches to club engagement.
Kindness Dollars Highlights
From celebrations to gratitude, the room was full of positivity:
- KinderKoncerts received rave reviews—“200 smiling faces!”
- It was reported that Sgt. Ogden of York Police Department successfully completed the 24 plunges in 24 hours for the Special Olympics Polar Plunge, and had expressed appreciation to York Rotary Club for their support
- Wedding celebrations, birthdays, and even a triumphant “car recovered from mice damage” story!
- Opening Day optimism—because everyone’s in first place (and yes… the Red Sox are still undefeated 😉)
All proceeds of Kindness Dollars for the Month of March will support Diane’s nonprofit of choice.
Program Spotlight: CoastX
This week’s program featured an inspiring presentation from CoastX—recipients of our 2025 Sharing & Caring Grant.
Mission: To connect middle and high school students with the ocean through immersive, hands-on learning experiences.
Ian Grant (Co-Founder & COO) and Jiff Cornwell (Director of the Blue Arts Program) shared how CoastX blends science, art, and exploration to transform how students learn.
Highlights of the CoastX Experience:
- Three-Day Ocean Expeditions aboard the Utopia
- Exploration of Wood Island, their outdoor classroom rich with history and ecology
- Hands-On Marine Learning
- Lobster trap hauling
- Wildlife observation
- Discussions on fisheries, conservation, and marine ecosystems
- Creative Expression
- Cyanotype (sun-print) art using found ocean objects
- Watercolor and plein air painting
- Photography and digital editing
- ROV (Underwater Drone) Exploration
- Students piloted underwater vehicles to observe marine life below the surface
One of the most powerful takeaways? Students—often hesitant at first—leave inspired, curious, and deeply engaged. Even those unsure about being on the water found themselves fully immersed in discovery.
The program concluded with a student art show for families, showcasing the incredible work created during the experience.
Closing
The presentation wrapped with a heartfelt video thanking the York Rotary Club for its support—be sure to check it out here ~ https://www.facebook.com/reel/23884345177915157
The meeting adjourned at 8:32 PM.