The Program ​

Cy Grandy introduced Rotarian Lisa Sands, director of development for Virginia Opera. Lisa is a vocal member of our club who enjoys bringing good programs to our meeting. After reviewing the four operas slated for this season, she noted that our region's own Court Watson, a Governor's School for the Arts graduate living in New York, designed the sets and costumes for Samson and Delilah, the first opera of the season. The Puccini opera, The Girl of the Golden West, will be directed by Lillian Groag, who has done excellent work here before. A Midsummer Night’s Dream, the third offering, will be performed in English. Lucia di Lamermoor by Donizetti will close out the season.

Russell Allen, president and CEO of Virginia Opera noted that the company is in its 43rd season and going strong. It strives to expand and improve the quality of their performances. He highlighted the Young Artists program, which fosters emerging singers. He is proud of Virginia Opera's in-school touring programs, which introduce young audiences to opera in a format that is accessible and authentic. He invited Rotarians to come see one of the school programs in action. 

Singer Melisa Bonetti, one of the Young Artists, then sang three selections accompanied by pianist Shelby Rhoades. Melisa grew up in Queens, went to a performing arts high school that was near the Metropolitan Opera and earned a master's degree from the Cinncinnati Conservatory of Music. She sang a seduction aria from Carmen and another aria from Samson and Delilah. Melisa is the backup for the lead singer so she knows her songs. Finally, she did a lively rendition of “I Feel Pretty” from West Side Story in celebration of the late composer Leonard Bernstein’s 100th birthday next year. Everyone was totally capivated!

The Meeting

Pam Tubbs led us in singing. President Gary led the Pledge and the Four Way Test. He issued his own test at that point and invited us to sit down. But we passed our test and waited for the invocation by Tami Aloisa. Our School of the Week is Coleman Place Elementary.

Visitors

Former Rotarian, the recently retired Cynthia Carter West brought Dianna Starkey from Virginia Arts Festival. Anthony Mia brought Caleb Cooper from the YMCA of South Hampton Roads. Alan Nelson introduced his sister, Frances Hixson, from Dallas. Sally Hartman introduced Allison Focke from the Virginia Arts Festival, who has taken Cynthia's position as head of public relations. 

Announcements

President Gary announced that hurricane relief donations to Rotary districts in Texas and Florida can be made through the District 7600 through its donor advised fund or by mailing a check to the district earmarked for hurricane relief.

Lois Kercher introduced our newest member, Jason Drane, head of Radiology at Sentara Norfolk General. President Gary also noted that a deceased member, Hil Strode, left a bequest to our Norfolk Rotary Endowment of over $11,000. This is a sizeable bequest and an example of how to provide help for future needs in our community. 

President Gary wanted everyone to remember that on October 11 we will have a “Guest Meeting Day” and bring guests to hear a program on the 100th anniversary of Naval Station Norfolk. 

Happy Bucks & Fines

George Nottingham was pleased to announce the birth of his first grandchild. Joe New was happy to report his 50th wedding anniversary.

Marilyn Gowen celebrated her 33rd wedding anniversary. Eleanor Schoonover donated $5 because she got to see a tiger swim at the Growlfest on Saturday.

Sigur Whitaker reported that her high school was named the “Prettiest High School in Indiana” by a major architecture review.

Al Carmichael reported his daughter is in China to adopt a baby.

Jim O’Brien contributed because he was happy to see Bill Jonak back at a meeting after being ill.

Gary Boswick celebrated his 28th anniversary at the Growlfest. 

Raffle

Al Carmichael won tickets to the opera. 100% tables were 11 and 18. A guest won the little pot and donated it back to Charities.  Thank you.