President Renate called the meeting to order at 12:15 p.m.
Members present:
Renate Alexander, Betty Galligan, Jennifer Hyde, Christina Sorensen, Steve Propatier, Steve Henderson, Lori DiPersio, Scott Haggerty, Will Farrell, Tom Foley, Valerie Perry.
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
Betty Galligan led the singing of God Bless America.
Announcements:
The Scholarship Luncheon, which was originally scheduled for May 4, must be cancelled, due to the Coronavirus. The checks will be mailed to the students. Steve Propatier noted that Channel 9 in Seekonk will video the students receiving their checks, but they will not be ready by May 4. A suggestion was made to have the students join a Zoom Meeting on May 4, but it was decided that there would not be enough time to put it all together.
A discussion was held on the grant process, and Betty mentioned that the grants can only be used for the food banks, which eliminates the plan to apply for a grant for gift certificates. Lori questioned about the pencils for the backpack program. The price will be checked.
Will mentioned his Webinar, which will be held at his office.
Tom Foley purchased a couple of gift cards from Avenue N, which Betty will pick up. These will be used for some of the health care workers.
Steve Propatier mentioned that the Golf Tournament will be discssed soon when he meets with Dick Wood. He said they should be making the decision by May 20.
Steve Propatier announced that another check for Ella was received for $35.
GUEST SPEAKER
Today's Guest Speaker was Cheryl Faria, a member of the East Providence Historical Society,, who gave a presentation and virtual tour of the John Hunt House. This meeting will serve as one of our bi-annual Million Dollar Meals.
Cheryl gave the background on the Historical Society, noting that it was founded in 1965, and it is a 100% volunteer group. There are currently about 200 members in the society.
The John Hunt House was built for John Hunt Jr., and his wife Rachel Carpenter, in 1751. From 1751 to 1854, five generations of Hunts lived there. The grounds include 44 acres, which are used for various outdoor activities.
The Historical Society is trying to raise $100,000 to hire part-time workers at the site. They would like to do more classes for children.
For more information on the John Hunt House and the E.P. Historical Society, please visit
There will be a virtual Rotary Social on Thursday, May 7, 2020 at 5-6 pm. Lori DiPersio will be sending an email with details on how to access the site.