These Weeks at Rotary

Even though your Spoke reporter has been on hiatus, the Salem Rotary wheel has been turning. With one amazing presenter and two rounds of committee meetings, the following is a recap of what occurred the last three weeks.

Debbie Stokes

With sadness, Claire Kallelis shared that Debbie Stokes passed away on January 16. A fixture at the hotel and at our Rotary meetings, Debbie was a kind and thoughtful woman who worked diligently to make sure every guest felt welcomed and had what they needed. She brought kindness and integrity to her work every day, and her care for people, both colleagues and guests, defined her professional life. Joe Amico joined Clarie at the podium to further recognize Debbie’s compassion and efforts. She will be missed by all who knew her.

Morocco: A Journey Through Symbol, Story & Place

Natalie Blue regaled us with stories and reflections from her women’s retreat in Morocco, using the country’s geography, history, and cultural symbolism as a framework for personal and collective inner work. Natalie first questioned whether she could go on this trip but forced herself out of her comfort zone into this immersive experience. She set off to explore herself and returned with some clarity, amazing stories, and sisters.

Her presentation highlighted key locations—including Marrakech, Essaouira, the Atlas Mountains, and the Sahara Desert—and explored how their historical, architectural, and sensory qualities mirrored themes of presence, embodiment, rhythm, and transformation. She was very intrigued by the beauty and craftsmanship of the doors she saw during her adventures and shared several photos that she will compile into something at a later time.

She explored major sites such as Marrakech’s medina and Jemaa el-Fnaa and had an action-packed adventure across the country. There were camel rides, palace tours, hiking, a sunrise hot air balloon ride, port visits, shopping, a cooking class, glamping, an oasis, amazing food, and so much more. Natalie noted that the contrast of the cities and the beauties of nature made it an especially magical trip.

Club Updates

President Ryan shared the following updates before the committee meetings began. The board approved funds allocations for the following organizations:

•    LEAP for Education - $1,000
•    Salem Little League - $300
•    North Shore Concert Band - $500
•    Salem Academy Charter School - $1,000
•    Citizens Inn - $500

The board also approved Birthday Fund recognitions in memory of Sean Clarke and Debbie Stokes and in honor of the birth of FJ Murphy’s new child. Please use this note as a reminder to contribute to the Birthday Fund on your birthday! For those of you who are not familiar, Rotarians typically donate $1 per year (or more) on their birthday to support recognitions and other initiatives that fall outside the scope of funds allocations.