To the editor: Rotary’s annual visit to Kurn Hattin was a blessing for all

Wow! What an afternoon it was on Thursday, Dec. 19 at Kurn Hattin Home for Children in Westminster, when the Chester Rotary made its annual visit. In the 10 years I have been participating, I have never seen the number of Rotarians, Interact members, friends of Rotary, even our District Governor David Hoopes and Kathy,  join together in making this visit one of the absolute best.  It was also one of the most abundant in several other ways.  The gifts taken to the children were all clever, useful and imaginative. And each child received not just one, but several wonderful gifts.  I did not see even one disappointed child. Just the opposite.

A very, very special thank you to the coordinators, Fran Cheslock,  Nancy Davis and Ann Summer and to the many elf helpers.  Of course, to Santa and the Grinch another special thank you. You two were great: Santa with your glowing smile and Grinch with your dancing and good manners (although the kids at the last house gave you a little competition with the dancing.  What fun.)

Not only were the Rotarian/Interact gifts wonderful, but another special thank you to the Vermont Country Store for its most generous gifts of hats, socks and other items.  Everyone loved them. And Susan Spaulding: Is it true that you sent two pizzas to each of the cottages after we left? How thoughtful and generous of you. Another thank you!

Last but not the bit least is the check for $5,000 that Chester Rotary was asked to give by an anonymous donor who wanted to “do something  for children at Christmas.”  We immediately thought of Kurn Hattin and this person said yes.  The check was presented to Kurn Hattin, which was “blown away” with surprise and gratitude.

Thank you all who participated today; those who adopted cottages; TD Bank which acted as our storehouse; the Vermont Country Store; Interact and friends.

Today was a perfect Rotary Day!   It could not have been better. I truly don’t know who got more out of the day: the kids or us.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all. See you next year.

Ronald Theissen
President
Rotary Club of Chester Vermont