Rotary Club
of East Hartford
High Gear
Russell Hampton
National Awards Services Inc.
Sage
ClubRunner

Volume 1 | Issue 39

Today's weather was a typical early Spring day - warm and breezy during the day but cooler as we approached the Gallery - but still a great setting for our annual Paul Harris celebration.  Ceil Collins and Bob Buettner were at their usual spot welcoming tonight's attendees and passing out their appropriate meal tickets. We thank them for another job well done.  It's great they remember who gets what, as many signed up weeks ago and perhaps hadn't a clue what they actually had chosen.
 
Attendance for tonight's event was reminiscent of days long past as almost 100 Rotarians, friends, and guests showed up to join in the festivities and honor our three recipients.  It was great to see!
Mark your calendars
As people approached the bar, most were greeted by Chris's friendly smile and their name and beverage spoken like they were here just yesterday.  He sure has an amazing recall! 
 
A trip to the bar was followed by a journey around the hors-d'ouvre table laddened with a variety of snacks including cheese, pepperoni, crackers, meatballs and assorted fruit - almost a meal in  itself!
 
As usual, small groups engaged in a variety of conversations, and were momentarily interrupted by the passing of other pre meal treats - scallops and bacon, fried shrimp and pigs in a blanket. This gathering is truly a special event in the Rotary year!
 
But like all good things, Happy Hour must come to an end.  President Bill Saunders called us together with our typical opening ritual, the song, the Pledge to our great flag, and thoughtful Invocations from Art Bradbury and Dan Firestone.  Guests Frank Wargo, District Governor, Marty and Carol Fins, Past ADG, Mayor Marcia LeClerc, and all our home grown East Hartford Rotarian Leaders were quickly introduced by president Bill.The Welcome Song was started by Art and Dan Larson.
 
Bill thanked those who helped make this evening special - Peggy Schoen for the program, and Larry Hangland for printing it, Jim Watts for his continuing role as Paul Harris coordinator, and Pam for all she does for us. The staff then began serving the meal.  First, a salad, followed by the choice of entree -filet mignon, roast beef, salmon, or chicken - all from the supersized menu!  Potatoes and vegetables completed the plate.  Dessert as usual was a large piece of ice cream pie.  Nobody went home hungry, but many left with a take- out container!  As usual, a great meal!
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2017 P H Fellows - Lionel, Marc, Kevin
President Bill called us to order and welcomed the many guests gathered together tonight to support our three Paul Harris recipients. Of special note was the contingent from the East Hartford Woman's Club. It was special to see such support.
 
Bill then introduced Jim Watts, Chair of the Paul Harris Committee.  Jim, like Bill before him, mentioned how special the Paul Harris evening is in the life of the East Hartford Rotary Club.  It is our opportunity to give special recognition to those of us who have, in the eyes of their peers, truly demonstrated the meaning of "Service Above Self". What better way is there to recognize this Motto!
 
Jim then introduced our first recipient, Mark Glass.  Mark has been a member of our club for 8 years and has been totally involved in our Club's activities, as well being active on the District level. He is continuing up the Rotary ladder and hopes to become a District Governor in the near future.  Mark thanked the Club for this honor and continues to be a most active Rotarian.   
 
Next, Sue Kickery was called upon to introduce her husband, Rotarian Kevin.  The introduction mentioned some Yankee guy named Steinbrenner, and some reference to Kevin's 5 per cent Oscar the Grouch hidden personality.  The Kickerys were surprised to find that two of their children, Kate and Scott showed up to join in honoring their Dad.  Although Kevin has been in Rotary only a few short years he has truly jumped in with both feet. He is a fresh idea man on the Board, and has volunteered to help the club in so many ways.  His acceptance talk was an outstanding example of his "Service Above Self". He is truly a caring individual!  
 
Chuck Clarke provided the introduction for Lionel Lessard.  Lionel has been a Rotarian for more than half his life. He has embodied the spirit of "Service Above Self" in so many ways as he has worked and supported a large number of community activities.  He has worked with youth in many sporting venues.  He has been an ardent supporter of so many of our Club's fund raising ventures over his long career.  He is a kind and gentle man.  He thanked the club for this recognition and showed great sincerity for all the Club has meant to him.  He ended his talk with a Toast to former Rotarian and Friend, Steve Tamiso.  This was a wonderful and meaningful way to end the introduction of the New Paul Harris Fellows.
 
District Governor Frank Wargo was then called upon to make the formal presentations.  He stated that this was a recognition, not an award.  These people were recognized because they made an effort to make their community a better place, and the Club's contribution to the Foundation on their behalf continues to support Rotary's great work around the world.  It's the gift that keeps on giving.
 
With the formal presentations complete, President Bill concluded the meeting by thanking all those in attendance and wishing them Godspeed!
 
A great evening, great crowd, and a great tribute to our new Paul Harris Fellows.
 
Bob Wood, Designated Pinch Hitter!