Valentine Spirits & Nubble Secrets
Rotary Recap February 13, 2026
- Valentine’s spirit filled the room as Susan led the meeting with festive décor.
- Updates on the $5,000 Caring & Sharing grant, Four on the 4th, and the April 11 community event.
- Nubble Lighthouse keeper Matt Rosenberg shared stories of island life, wildlife, and rescues.
Rotary Recap – February 13, 2026
With President Darcy away, Susan stepped in as “Darcy for the day,” opening the meeting just before Valentine’s Day. The room was festively decorated thanks to Sean and his crew, setting a cheerful tone for the morning.
Kindness Dollars & Member Updates
Members shared updates, good wishes, and a few laughs:
- Several members shared health updates and positive news.
- Valentine’s Day wishes and hopes for warmer weather were shared around the room.
- Russ noted that Dinon might be in the market for a new watch, prompting a few good-natured donations toward the cause.
- Dinon also reminded members that the York Chamber is accepting nominations for Volunteer and Business of the Year, due next Friday.
Club & Committee Updates
Caring & Sharing Grant
Cindy shared that the club will again offer a $5,000 Caring & Sharing grant. The process includes a public application followed by committee review. Larry and Scott volunteered to serve on the committee, and additional members are welcome to join.
Cindy shared that the club will again offer a $5,000 Caring & Sharing grant. The process includes a public application followed by committee review. Larry and Scott volunteered to serve on the committee, and additional members are welcome to join.
Four on the 4th Dates
Planning is underway for the 4 on the 4th event, with sponsorship discussions in progress. Members were asked to save the dates for July 3 and 4 and plan to assist with Rotary’s efforts if possible.
Planning is underway for the 4 on the 4th event, with sponsorship discussions in progress. Members were asked to save the dates for July 3 and 4 and plan to assist with Rotary’s efforts if possible.
April 11 Community Event
Brad announced plans for an April 11 gathering at the KSB grounds. Rotary will host a tent to connect with the community, with live music and Walker’s food truck expected. The event will also help launch the Four on the 4th initiative and sponsorship opportunities.
Brad announced plans for an April 11 gathering at the KSB grounds. Rotary will host a tent to connect with the community, with live music and Walker’s food truck expected. The event will also help launch the Four on the 4th initiative and sponsorship opportunities.
Local School News
Brit shared that the York Middle School Jazz Band recently performed in Westbrook, and the high school drama club will present Beetlejuice at the auditorium in March.
Brit shared that the York Middle School Jazz Band recently performed in Westbrook, and the high school drama club will present Beetlejuice at the auditorium in March.
Guest Speaker: Matt Rosenberg, Nubble Lighthouse Keeper
Matt Rosenberg joined the club to share stories from his nearly 15 years as the lighthouse keeper at the iconic Nubble.
He explained that he originally applied for the position after seeing it posted in the newspaper while recovering from a knee injury. What began as a summer job turned into a long-term role caring for one of York’s most recognizable landmarks.
Matt described the unique challenges of the job:
- He rows to the island in a small boat, as he is not allowed to use the tram.
- The lighthouse complex includes five buildings, all of which have undergone major renovations during his tenure.
- The tower dates back to 1879 and features a historic lens now paired with modern LED technology.
He also shared memorable stories from the island:
- A famous lighthouse cat, Mr. T, once swam back and forth to the mainland to hunt.
- Seals are frequent visitors, especially in summer months.
- On one memorable Memorial Day weekend, a deer swam to the island and later gave birth there. The fawn was eventually rescued and transported to a wildlife rehabilitation center.
Matt noted that one of his most regular duties is mowing the lawn—something he finds relaxing compared to the busy decision-making of his work as a teacher.
To see a "peek" inside the Nubble Lighthouse check out this cool Facebook Reel created by Matt: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1960530564810993
The meeting concluded at 8:31 a.m. after a fascinating look into life at one of York’s most beloved landmarks.
Want to learn more about our Community, and how we help others? Come to a meeting and check us out! Friday's 7:30 am at the Center for Active Living, 36 Main Street, York Beach, Maine.