Last Week, Past President (three times) Gary Lett talked about the challenges North Bethesda Rotary faces. We need more active members as does Rotary International. From our current members we need better attendance and more participation in events. We talked about fund raising events. The fellowship of members and guests at the picnic after the bike ride was better this year. Parties at Steve and Carla’s houses are always fun but we should use them to promote more outside participation.

Last week, From his book on Southern Brig Gen John McCaustand, Jim Johnson talked about Lt Gen Jubal Early’s Shenandoah Valley raid into MD and on to DC in July 1864. Gen Lee pulled Early’s 15,000 infantry and McCaustand’s 1,000 cavalry out of Richmond to put pressure on Washington.

The Rebs raided Harper’s Ferry, threatened to burn Hagerstown and Frederick for $20k and $200k ransom on their way to Rockville. Union Gen Lew Wallace’s 5,000 infantry fought a delaying action just long enough for Gen grant to get troops up from Petersburg to defend DC. Early’s infantry came down GA Ave and were stopped at Fort Stevens in Siver Spring while McCaustand’s cavalry made it to Tenleytown with very little resistance. ( McCaustand claimed he could captured DC with more troops).

Last Week Tammy Schmidt talked about the Friendly Visitor Program under The Mental Health Association of Montgomery County. The Friendly Visitor Program is staffed by volunteers that visit clients that are mostly over 70 (and 60% over 80) that live in their own homes, group homes, or assisted living facilities. Common among the aged is depression, grief, loneliness, and limited resources.

Volunteers must be 21 or over; enjoy the company of seniors; are good listener; attend volunteer orientation and on going training: and visit an hour a week and commit to a year of service. The Program’s goals are to relieve loneliness, help clients remain in the community, and monitor their health.