High Gear - August 16, 2023

Hello folks,

The day started off overcast with light rain prior to the group showing up at Glenbrook Sports Center, off Oak Street in East Hartford. This was a social gathering more than an official meeting and President Bob arranged for the gathering to run from 11:30- 1:30pm, and we used every minute of that time to.

No formal meeting practices were followed as this was a social gathering

25 people showed up with a good mix of members, family, and friends. We dined on hamburgers, hot dogs, potato salad and Cole slaw and had chocolate chip or raisin cookies for dessert. Many a great conversation took place and the good cheer that was present certainly nullified the earlier rain and clouds overhead.

Once lunch was served and digested our host Rose Rainville from Glenbrook spoke to us and gave a history and mission of the Spots Center. She mentioned how its roots were tied to our club with past members, George Lucas, the Stewart and Bradbury’s who built the original swim and tennis club, and her own father who designed and built the original pool in 1963, that is still there today. She reminisced about how her life was spent helping at the facility and how beneficial it was for her and all the children who attended swim & tennis lessons. Tennis courts have been replaced with soccer fields, but she sees that legacy continuing in all the former students/members who now give back by now working as instructors and lifeguards for the next generation.

It is amazing the history the past & present members of our club have of this place and equally confusing that only a few current Rotarians were aware of this place prior to our meeting today. This place has been a staple of East Hartford for many years and Rose wants to continue that legacy and with her positive personality and passion for the facility she will no doubt restore its glory.

With all his information absorbed, Bob adjourned the meeting at 1:44PM

Your scribe,

Alex W