2015-12-09, Las Cruces High Swing Ensemble

President Alex called the meeting to order at 12:10 p.m.  Since this was the fourth day of Hanukkah, John Pickett shared a prayer designated for Hanukkah. President Alex led us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Ross Ramsey deferred singing until the “pros” got here. After a spirited “meet and greet” time, President Alex presented Nina Salmon and Chris May from Mesilla Valley Hospice with a $557 donation. The can started early with many self imposed fines to support today’s choir. Happy $ flowed freely; Kristi brought one from her husband, he was happy that she couldn’t talk. Mary Ellen was happy that her granddaughter had learned how to survive in Las Vegas from her grandmother. Bobbie was happy that his wife was recovering from a successful surgery. John was happy about the upcoming project at Picacho Middle School to plant trees in the courtyard. He also announced that the Salvation Army needed bell ringers and advocated that the club ring for a day before Christmas.  

THE PROGRAM

Ross introduced the Las Cruces High School Swing Ensemble. This 13 member girls choir is directed by Geri Brink. Their Holiday program included:

Carol of the Bells

Behold – sung in Hebrew

I’ll be home for Christmas

Un flambeau (Bring a Torch) Jeanette Isabella

Ding Dong Merrily on High

Have your self a Merry Little Christmas

            Soloist – Helen Cai

Go Tell it on the Mountain

Silent Night

Give Us Hope

Ms. Brink shared her appreciation for Rotary and how she thought this last tune was a reflection of the hope that Rotary can bring to the community. She closed with a Jingle Bell sing a long, the club never sounded better! The members of the ensemble introduced themselves and included six sophomores, four juniors, and three seniors. As the choir prepared to leave, Ross gave them a check from the collection. Ms. Brink was grateful and appreciative of the gift.

After the choir sang, two of our student guests gave their speeches. Ashton Womble is a senior at Onate High School who plans on attending NMSU and will pursue a career in education or medicine. “Service keeps me humble” is a good summary of her many service events, including washing the feet of the homeless. Alexis Torres is a senior at Centennial High School who plans to attend UNM under the NM Leadership Project. “Society needs service to others.” She was inspired by Richelle’s talk and appreciated the warm welcome she has received this month.

AFTER THE PROGRAM

The club collected $425 for the LCHS choir, enough to cover the bus and buy some music! After much anticipation, Mel got the opportunity to draw the joker. However the card eluded him and the pot continues to grow. President Alex closed the meeting with the four-way test.  

<prior week   following week>

Guests of Rotarians

Visiting Rotarians

Student Guests

Make-ups

Submitted by Greg Fant