As the coronavirus crisis grips the nation the Rotary Club of Asbury Park moved its meetings online this week, with 29 members logging on to participate.
Thanks to Jackie Boruch for organizing the event and teaching members not only the mechanics of meeting on Zoom but the etiquette, such as muting when your dog is barking in the background.
President Brian Mullins lead the meeting as usual, with a prayer from Parson Jeff Bassett and time for happy dollars.
The group agreed that members who wish can donate the money they would have spent on lunches to a fund to buy meals for medical personnel at area hospitals.
Falcos Catering has offered to make and deliver the meals, which will be sent on a rotating basis to various departments and shifts.
Members will soon receive a link from Brenda Skinner that will take you to the Rotary Foundation website where donations can be made online.
For those not online, donations may be sent to the club’s P.O. Box, 512, Ocean Twp.
All donations are tax deductible.
Meals will also be delivered at home to individuals who need them.
President Brian said several donations have already been made to the program.
Going forward an attempt will be made to have speakers join us in the Zoom meeting room to give their presentations.
Tama Campbell said the scholarship committee is contacting the guidance departments at area high schools to move forward with the annual scholarship program, although she was not sure how much they would be this year.
Many people expressed support and admiration for doctors, nurses and all hospital personnel working through this crisis.
Dr. Amy Peardon explained the changes she is experiencing as a pediatrician at Jersey Shore University Medical Center.
She said she is conducting video chats with patients and staff are still in need of PPE, personal protection equipment.
“It’s a whole different world,” she said. “We are figuring it out as we go along.”
Sandy Brown said both his son and daughter-in-law are doctors working at a Massachusetts hospital.
HJ closed out the meeting with a moment of meditation and deep breathing and wishing all, moments of calm and peace.