New member Roger Hill (L) is presented with his new membership packet by Richard Fox, Esq. (R)
CSH Rotary Club Meeting – February 4, 2026
The Charlotte-Shelburne-Hinesburg Rotary Club gathered for a special meeting featuring a new member induction, Pie for Breakfast updates, and a heartfelt community service activity.
New Member Induction: Roger Hill
Richard Fox had the privilege of welcoming Roger Hill as the club's newest member. After the traditional posting period with overwhelmingly positive feedback (and perhaps some strategically placed $20 bills, Richard joked), Roger received his welcome package including a collar pin, Four-Way Test coin, and membership certificate.
Roger introduced himself: a retired nurse with 25 years of experience, he has a wonderful wife, two married children who are both teachers, and one grandchild with another on the way. One son teaches in Bennington while the other is at Middlebury High School in special education. Roger thanked Chris Davis for inviting him to visit—a reminder that people often just need to be asked.
Richard emphasized this point: "He came here because he was asked." Many people would love to be involved but are waiting for an invitation. Members were encouraged to invite friends and neighbors not just to meetings, but to service projects where they can experience Rotary's impact firsthand.
Paul Harris Recognition
Carol presented recognition awards:
- Lori York received a blue stone pin for her generous contributions
- Additional recognitions were given for continued support of the Rotary Foundation
Members were reminded that contributions can be made throughout the year.
Shelburne Winter Carnival Recap
Thanks to everyone who volunteered Saturday afternoon. Kids had a great time making crafts, and it was an easy, repeatable event—perfect for engaging families and promoting the upcoming Pie for Breakfast event.
Valentine's Service Project
The club received leftover craft supplies from the Winter Carnival, so members spent the second half of the meeting making Valentine's cards for donation. Recipients will include Pathways Vermont and local senior centers.
"This is a low-effort thing that puts a bright spot in someone else's day," Catherine explained. Members were encouraged to make one or two cards—no artistic talent required, though some members produced impressive creations while others embraced a more "elementary school aesthetic."
The fellowship of crafting together while chatting embodied what makes Rotary special.
Pie for Breakfast: Full Court Press
Jessica provided an extensive update on sponsorship efforts. Current status: $6,500 raised (including a WCAX sponsorship Amanda secured), with a goal of $15,000. Last year the club raised over $11,000 in sponsorships.
Brainstormed Sponsor Targets:
- Utilities: Green Mountain Power, Vermont Gas (both have community giving budgets)
- Local businesses: Shelburne Athletic Club, Race Vermont, Shelburne Fitness Club
- Regional players: Gonzo's, Kwiniaska, Hack Club, Beta Technologies
- Banks: M&T Bank (Union Bank has historically contributed)
- Construction: PNC Construction, Poly Construction, Vermont Construction Roofing
- Food/beverage: Pizza 44, Cushina, Backyard Bistro, Blue Whale
- Retail: Spa at Shelburne, Sisters of Anarchy, Hacks
- Other: VIP Tire, Dutch Mill, Willowhouse, vital delivery, Spare Time
Members claimed several targets:
- Brandon: Shelburne Fitness Club, Race Vermont
- Richard: Vermont Gas connection through senior VP in Hinesburg
- Jessica: Kwiniaska (Charlie connection)
- Other members took Sisters of Anarchy and various local businesses
Tips for Success:
- When a sponsor says yes on the spot, ask for a check right there
- Bring a window cling or poster to give them
- If teaming up, wear Rotary gear and share the mission
- Post posters on community bulletin boards (libraries, town halls)
Every sponsorship matters. If everyone in attendance put up just three posters, visibility would increase dramatically.
Bylaws Subcommittee
The club's bylaws need refreshing. Jim, Carol, and Matt volunteered to serve on the subcommittee. Catherine will send them the current documents.
Speech Contest Reminder
February 18 during the regular meeting. Topic: "How can we be instruments of peace?" Members with connections to high school students in Charlotte, Shelburne, or Hinesburg should encourage them to participate.
Food Shelf Reminder
Harriet thanked members who continue bringing items for the food shelf—donations are always appreciated and always accepted.
Happy Fines Highlights
- Several members celebrated the slightly warmer weather
- One member torched their 20-foot diameter, 12-foot high burn pile—flames reached 30 feet
- A member won at Mahjong yesterday
- February marks the halfway point to spring
- Next week, one lucky member will be in Aruba
- Lori shared bittersweet news: their 18.5-year-old rescue dog was put down Friday, but Shelburne Vet did a wonderful job. Also celebrating 30 years since her proposal to Dan
- John is recovering from back surgery and doing well—a card was passed for signatures
- A member is happy for longer daylight at 4 PM
- Brandon noted Coast Guard and rescue crews saved people from a floating iceberg at Charlotte Beach—grateful for dedicated first responders
- Roger contributed for the entire club, grateful for the warm welcome
- The Seahawks are doing something worth following
The meeting closed with members continuing to craft Valentines and share in fellowship.
Looking Ahead
- February 18: Speech Contest during regular meeting
- March 14: Pie for Breakfast
- Board meeting tomorrow at Shelburne Town Hall
- SCS Middle School production of "Hans Christian Andersen Jr." at CVU—February 6-7 (Richard's reminder)
The CSH Rotary Club meets Wednesdays. Keep up the sponsorship outreach—every conversation counts!
The Charlotte-Shelburne-Hinesburg Rotary Club gathered for a special meeting featuring a new member induction, Pie for Breakfast updates, and a heartfelt community service activity.
New Member Induction: Roger Hill
Richard Fox had the privilege of welcoming Roger Hill as the club's newest member. After the traditional posting period with overwhelmingly positive feedback (and perhaps some strategically placed $20 bills, Richard joked), Roger received his welcome package including a collar pin, Four-Way Test coin, and membership certificate.
Roger introduced himself: a retired nurse with 25 years of experience, he has a wonderful wife, two married children who are both teachers, and one grandchild with another on the way. One son teaches in Bennington while the other is at Middlebury High School in special education. Roger thanked Chris Davis for inviting him to visit—a reminder that people often just need to be asked.
Richard emphasized this point: "He came here because he was asked." Many people would love to be involved but are waiting for an invitation. Members were encouraged to invite friends and neighbors not just to meetings, but to service projects where they can experience Rotary's impact firsthand.
Paul Harris Recognition
Carol presented recognition awards:
- Lori York received a blue stone pin for her generous contributions
- Additional recognitions were given for continued support of the Rotary Foundation
Members were reminded that contributions can be made throughout the year.
Shelburne Winter Carnival Recap
Thanks to everyone who volunteered Saturday afternoon. Kids had a great time making crafts, and it was an easy, repeatable event—perfect for engaging families and promoting the upcoming Pie for Breakfast event.
Valentine's Service Project
The club received leftover craft supplies from the Winter Carnival, so members spent the second half of the meeting making Valentine's cards for donation. Recipients will include Pathways Vermont and local senior centers.
"This is a low-effort thing that puts a bright spot in someone else's day," Catherine explained. Members were encouraged to make one or two cards—no artistic talent required, though some members produced impressive creations while others embraced a more "elementary school aesthetic."
The fellowship of crafting together while chatting embodied what makes Rotary special.
Pie for Breakfast: Full Court Press
Jessica provided an extensive update on sponsorship efforts. Current status: $6,500 raised (including a WCAX sponsorship Amanda secured), with a goal of $15,000. Last year the club raised over $11,000 in sponsorships.
Brainstormed Sponsor Targets:
- Utilities: Green Mountain Power, Vermont Gas (both have community giving budgets)
- Local businesses: Shelburne Athletic Club, Race Vermont, Shelburne Fitness Club
- Regional players: Gonzo's, Kwiniaska, Hack Club, Beta Technologies
- Banks: M&T Bank (Union Bank has historically contributed)
- Construction: PNC Construction, Poly Construction, Vermont Construction Roofing
- Food/beverage: Pizza 44, Cushina, Backyard Bistro, Blue Whale
- Retail: Spa at Shelburne, Sisters of Anarchy, Hacks
- Other: VIP Tire, Dutch Mill, Willowhouse, vital delivery, Spare Time
Members claimed several targets:
- Brandon: Shelburne Fitness Club, Race Vermont
- Richard: Vermont Gas connection through senior VP in Hinesburg
- Jessica: Kwiniaska (Charlie connection)
- Other members took Sisters of Anarchy and various local businesses
Tips for Success:
- When a sponsor says yes on the spot, ask for a check right there
- Bring a window cling or poster to give them
- If teaming up, wear Rotary gear and share the mission
- Post posters on community bulletin boards (libraries, town halls)
Every sponsorship matters. If everyone in attendance put up just three posters, visibility would increase dramatically.
Bylaws Subcommittee
The club's bylaws need refreshing. Jim, Carol, and Matt volunteered to serve on the subcommittee. Catherine will send them the current documents.
Speech Contest Reminder
February 18 during the regular meeting. Topic: "How can we be instruments of peace?" Members with connections to high school students in Charlotte, Shelburne, or Hinesburg should encourage them to participate.
Food Shelf Reminder
Harriet thanked members who continue bringing items for the food shelf—donations are always appreciated and always accepted.
Happy Fines Highlights
- Several members celebrated the slightly warmer weather
- One member torched their 20-foot diameter, 12-foot high burn pile—flames reached 30 feet
- A member won at Mahjong yesterday
- February marks the halfway point to spring
- Next week, one lucky member will be in Aruba
- Lori shared bittersweet news: their 18.5-year-old rescue dog was put down Friday, but Shelburne Vet did a wonderful job. Also celebrating 30 years since her proposal to Dan
- John is recovering from back surgery and doing well—a card was passed for signatures
- A member is happy for longer daylight at 4 PM
- Brandon noted Coast Guard and rescue crews saved people from a floating iceberg at Charlotte Beach—grateful for dedicated first responders
- Roger contributed for the entire club, grateful for the warm welcome
- The Seahawks are doing something worth following
The meeting closed with members continuing to craft Valentines and share in fellowship.
Looking Ahead
- February 18: Speech Contest during regular meeting
- March 14: Pie for Breakfast
- Board meeting tomorrow at Shelburne Town Hall
- SCS Middle School production of "Hans Christian Andersen Jr." at CVU—February 6-7 (Richard's reminder)
The CSH Rotary Club meets Wednesdays. Keep up the sponsorship outreach—every conversation counts!