Including “zoom” attendees there were 14 Club members in attendance. President Speck recognized two guest this morning; Lisa Hebert and Scott Latiolais who has submitted his membership papers and is now eligible for induction into the Club. Terri mentioned that she will contact Eric Jolly to attend a meeting to induct new members. Terri mentioned that at the Oct.12th meeting Joe Kraft would give the Corley Report as required per Club bylaws.
Gary DiLillo gave an update on the golf outing asking everyone to send in their foursome sheets no later than September 30th and to include those attending dinner. Gary recognized Jeff Appel for donating some fabulous door prizes and $500 to the golf outing.
Jeff Appel spoke about the Lorain Walk to End Alzheimer’s that was held last Saturday Sept. 17th. Jeff thanked the members who participated as well as the Club and members who donated, helping Jeff reach $5,200 in donations. Jeff spoke about how beautiful the ceremony was honoring those whom have passed from Alzheimer’s, the care givers, and those who are inflicted with Alzheimer’s. In all Jeff estimated that 275 people participated in the Lorain Walk to End Alzheimer’s.
Andrew Mangels gave an update on the Foundry outing to be held October 11th at 3 PM. Andrew mentioned that parking was free, that we do not get wet while rowing, and that afterwards Mitchell’s ice cream is served. The event will finish about 5 PM. Andrew talked about all the good things the Foundry is doing to help intercity kids with their schooling. Andrew suggested a trip to a local Brew Pub for refreshments and pizza rather than fight the rush-hour traffic that evening.
President Speck then turned the meeting over to our presenter, Marie Patten Blatter, Executive Director of the Westlake Meals on Wheels. Marie gave a touching informative presentation about Meals on Wheels (MOW), a little history, what they do, how they help, problems they have encountered, and upcoming fundraisers for the organization.
- Meals on Wheels (MOW) was started years ago by a few housewives to help the elderly who no longer could cook for themselves. Today it is a national organization.
- The Westlake chapter serves five communities, Westlake, North Olmstead, Bay Village, Olmstead Falls, and Olmstead Township, all from a tiny kitchen in the basement of the Dover Congressional Church.
- MOW receives no state or federal assistance but relies on the generosity of donors and community support. Those below the poverty level or those that cannot afford the daily $9 cost for two meals are subsidized by MOW so that no one goes hungry.
- With only four cooks MOW serves 168 complete meals every day (1 hot, 1 cold) and last year served over 34K meals. A normal hot meal would be cordon blue, vegetable, fresh desert, baked goods, and drink. The daily cold mean would be fruit, a pasta salad, fresh baked goods, and drink. Meals are not repeated with any regularity. About 20% of the meals are unique for those with special dietary needs.
- MOW relies on 70 volunteer drivers to deliver the meals to the recipients. MOW drivers visit for a short time and may be the only people the recipients see each day. They form a relationship with the people and MOW becomes part of their family. Drivers are keen to spot anything that maybe wrong. MOW will contact relatives or call the paramedics if a driver identifies a need for help.
- The average age of the those served is 84, mostly female widows, but they also serve two younger men who are physically handicapped that live alone.
- MOW is open to anyone who needs them but cannot expand their coverage due to the small kitchen they rent. They simply need a newer and larger kitchen!
- Meals on Wheels has two fundraisers each year, “Night at the Races” on Oct 29th at Wagner’s and “Share the Love” on Valentine's Day.
Club President Terri Speck presented Marie with a check for $1,500 from the club. We had time for our Club “Happy Bucks” and most praised Marie for her fine presentation and the generous work they do for the elderly.
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