 | East Hartford Rotary Club High Gear Volume 79 | Issue 22 / December 20, 2023 |
We gathered at the Wethersfield Country Club on a cold and clear New England-style evening for our Annual Holiday Party.
Though there were only 30 of us there, all had a good time. Diane Willett and Wes’s wife, Stacy, Bev Leone, Jeanne McCarthy. Eleanor Agnelli and Chickie Amberg were among out guests It was good to see them again. It was especially heartening to see Wes Willett, Dan Larson, and Ruth Sheehan, all of whom have been recovering from various health challenges.
Ceil Collins was at her usual spot at the entrance to the room ensuring everyone would be given the requested meal. Choices were among beef, chicken and salmon. At our table, all three were enjoyed. Thanks to Ceil for all her hard work making the evening’s arrangements.
President Bob rang the official bell and called the meeting to order shortly before 7 PM.
Bob led us in the Pledge of Allegiance and The Four-Way Test:
Marc Glass and George Schoen gave inspirational messages.
Marc mentioned the non-sectarian nature of Rotary and concluded his message with “a dream of a Polio, Covid and a peaceful free world, we are thankful for our Rotary friends and the meal we are about to share.” George’s words were also focused on the diversity and openness of Rotary clubs everywhere. We thank them for such heartfelt reminders of what we share at a time when such messages are needed more than ever.
Bob took advantage of a few minutes available prior to the arrival of our dinners to make a significant announcement—the big reveal of this year’s Paul Harris Recognition recipients. They are Former Mayor Mike Walsh, Town Council VP, Harry Amadasun, Jr., Immediate Past Club President Alex Wisz, and Ray Maselek, a VP at Goodwin and member and Director of our club.
The Recognition Dinner will be held on the evening of Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at The Wethersfield Country Club.
With that, Bob left the podium, dinner was served, and the noise level rose significantly as everyone enjoyed lively table conversations.
Following dinner, including an excellent carrot cake for dessert, the only announcement was that there would be no meeting next Wednesday, the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day. So, we will next gather at Goodwin on January 3, 2024. The January Board meeting will be January 9, 2024.
President Bob was still enjoying chatting with folks at his table; so, Sue rang the bell at 8:50 PM.
Submitted by Sue Klock