The Program
Michael Desplanes introduced guest speaker Stephen Kirkland, who was appointed Executive Director of Nauticus in 2013 after serving as Assistant Executive Director since 2001. Kirkland was Cruise Director for Carnival Lines from 1996-2001. He recapped Nauticus attractions that provide a dynamic, interactive museum that explores the economic, naval and natural power of sea. It features hands-on exhibits, marine life, 3D movies as well as Battleship Wisconsin, Sail Nauticus Academy, Decker Half Moone cruise terminal and Victory Rover naval base tours.
He noted Nauticus is on a six-year growth spurt, hosting 370,000 visitors in 2019 and just celebrated 25th anniversary.
Kirkland is most proud of providing water access for underserved youth by establishing the non-profit Sail Nauticus Academy, which has served over 2,500 sixth to eighth graders. Winter visitation has increased with Dickens’ Christmas Town. In addition to cruise line originations, Norfolk is seeing a big increase in port-of-call visits with German and British lines. Next up for Nauticus is extensive revamping of third floor exhibit space, which will require a capital fund raising campaign.
A book was presented on behalf of speaker to school of day Willoughby Elementary.
The Meeting
President Lorna convened the luncheon with recitation of pledge of allegiance and four-way test. Julie Keesling delivered the invocation. Musical accompaniment was provided by Eleanor Schoonver and Frank Whitman.
Visitation report was delivered by Bob Powell. Dean Rogis is undergoing diagnostic tests and his wife is experiencing vision issues.
Chip Finch announced guest introductions: prospective member Dave Duncan, past president Clarke County PA, club; Angela Kerns introduced Richard Groover, an accountant at Wall Einhorn & Chernitzer; and our Rotary intern Amanda Akemi Sato Teixeria from Brazil. President Lorna also noted new TCC President has submitted membership application.
Nine Paul Harris Fellow Pins were presented by John Padgett, Sigur Whitaker, and president Lorna. Pictured above from the left are: Al Carmichel (PHF +2), Colin McKinnon (PHF +3), Bob Kuhlo (PHF + 1), PDG John Padgett, Michelle Nettles (PHF + 1), Steve Schultz (PHF +1), Angela Kerns (PHF + 2), Michael Desplaines (PHF + 3), Bernie Cohen (PHF + 6), Bill Clendenin (PHF + 5), president Lorna, and Foundation chair Sigur Whitaker.
Updates were given on upcoming community service opportunities and special events including Pints for Polio and Engage Norfolk. Details are provided elsewhere in Rotations.
Happy Bucks:
- Jeff Wells in remembrance of volunteer efforts in Haiti,
- Barbara Lipskis, video clips of those who did not attend the Christmas party being “elfed”,
- Michael Desplanes near collision with Sally Hartman in parking garage,
- Bob Ashe’s 51st wedding anniversary,
- Steve Schultz, Honolulu visit with family and first grandchild,
- Jim O’Brien, Army vs Navy football game,
- Jim Allison article on retirement from Salvation Army.
Bill McInnis conducted the raffle.