Posted by Doug Willett

Quipping that “it feels like Groundhog Day”, immediate Past President Dave Amberg manned the podium today equipped with the medallion of office and a dainty “tinker bell”. The more robust traditional bell was strangely missing, as were several Rotarians. It was a modest crowd here to celebrate the first day of August and the beginning of the wind down of the summer season. There was not a guest in sight.

But no matter. The buffet featured beef tips with chicken flavored rice (a strange but tasty combination), veggies, salad and rolls. Brownies for dessert. ‘Tis enough, ‘twill serve.

Conversation at the table ranged from the wild fires in California and the devastation to familiar sites such as the town of Reading where Neal and Doug once played in an ASA Softball National Tournament (1 o’clock game in 105-degree heat) to Bob Buettner’s flower magic, including spray painting hydrangeas from white to purple to save a customer a few bucks. It was an enjoyable discussion among good friends.

Lacking a Sergeant at Arms, Marc Glass did the “happy dollar” thing once again and circulated among the tables extorting donations. Highlights from the comments were recognition of Bill Saunders 76th birthday and George Agnelli’s 54th Wedding Anniversary. Eleanor Agnelli has an express ticket to heaven and, no doubt, Bev Saunders will be keeping her company on the trip.

On the announcement front:

·      George Schoen – six weeks left to Golf Tournament. Stuff starting to come in, so we have got a start but time to ramp it up – sponsors, raffle prizes, registrations, all are needed. Of need are $20+ gift cards for envelope stuffing. Every Rotarian is expected to do his/her part. Next Committee meeting on August 18 at 11:30 at the Ridge.

·      Next Wednesday evening (5:30 start) is the Sgt At Arms Picnic at Kevin Kickery’s home. Be sure to let Ceil Collins know if you are coming and your choice of meal. This one is free; costs are covered by all those fines you paid during the year.

·      President Kevin is requesting that everyone be sure to return via email their committee assignment preferences. If no one volunteers for a committee, it may well be eliminated. Do it today, if you have not done so yet.

·      PP Dave noted that Bev Leone is home in a boot resting uncomfortably after her fall on a cruise ship. Hopefully she will be ensconced in a lawn chair at next week’s picnic.

Finally, if a tree fell at the Klock’s house, might the sound heard be the frantic buzzing of angry bees? Peter passed around a rather impressive yellow jacket nest garnered from a fallen tree in his yard recently. Sue quietly commented “Honey, if you want honey, nature has it price.”

I leave you this week with the Club still searching for it’s next President Elect,

Doug Willett