THE PROGRAM
President Dave Duncan introduced our April 7th guest speaker, District 7600 Governor Pat Edwards, noting their strong connection and the many conversations they’ve shared throughout the 2025–2026 Rotary year.
Pat brought energy and inspiration as she shared her journey as both a humanitarian and a Rotarian. Influenced by Rotary International President Francesco Arezzo, she reflected on a path that began in Maine, led her to serve as an Emergency Medical Technician in Manchester, New Hampshire, then as a paramedic in Vermont, and ultimately to Virginia Beach in 2014.
Grounding her message in this year’s theme, “United for Good,” Pat connected the work of District 7600 to three key focus areas: membership, polio eradication, and peacebuilding. Pat used a “starfish” analogy to encourage Rotarians to take action and believe in the possibilities when we are all united in action. She identified her starfish priority #1 as the work she has and does with the Haiti National Water and Sanitation and Hygiene Initiative. The initiative identified that the primary cause of health issues in Haiti was a lack of clean water and worked to address this issue to improve overall community health. Her starfish priority #2 includes CART: Coins for Alzheimer’s Research Trust, Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, and Environmental Protection. Pat discussed how these big issues can be impacted, one Rotarian action at a time, and are worthy of Rotarian attention and service.
In closing, Pat identified the local and District 7600 opportunities and encouraged club members to get involved. She highlighted District and Global Grants and the Rotary baseball for Polio on April 22nd. She also stressed the importance of expanding membership, enhancing public image by telling our story, international service, and increasing our ability to adapt.
Pat’s message was simple but powerful – together we can unite to change lives, change communities, and change ourselves.
THE MEETING
The Club welcomed two guests: Kiandra Quinn, Director of Development at from D’Art was guest of LauraBeth DeHority, and Patrick Tamakloe, Assistant District Governor Rotary District 7600, who accompanied District Governor Pat Edwards.
Special recognition was also given for the return of Skip Burton, a Rotary Club of Norfolk member for 43 years.
REMINDERS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
Wine Donation for Suds & Buds
Tom Koller asked for Rotarians to donate at least one bottle of wine for the “wine pull” fundraiser at this year's Suds & Buds event on May 7. Donated wine should be valued at $20 or more and can be brought to club meetings leading up to the event. Tom also asked for members to encourage ticket sales to Suds & Buds by circulating the website or posts on Facebook and LinkedIn.
Clean the Bay Day
Mark your calendars for May 2nd and join your fellow Rotarians for Clean the Bay Day. Be on the lookout for more information to come!
