High Gear, January 18, 2012
T'was almost a winter-like day - cool and windy, but with a threat of some snow over the next few days! The Scholarship Committee was meeting, and Treasurer Mark and Raffle Chair Spurgeon were busy doing their appointed jobs. In a hurry President Peter scurried to the podium to call us to order! The song, the pledge, and Dave Amberg's thoughtful invocation thanking God for all the blessings we have received, the longer days, and the utilization of all our talents as we undertake our many projects, concluded our opening. The meal was quickly served and was quite good - London broil, rice, beans, and a nice cupcake.
The meeting reconvened with the introduction of our only guest, Sandy Worth, Dean of Students at Goodwin College. Dan Larson and Guy LaBella led us in the Welcome Song. Sgt. at Arms Dan Larson - continuing to do double duty - announced a goodly take led by Tom Westbrook's birthday and 42 years in Rotary, Steve Tamiso's 81st birthday, Guy LaBella's 5th year in the club, Dan and Betty Russell's 9th anniversary, Brian Liss in honor of his son's loss of his first tooth and for Jay Stewart's and Bob Wood's efforts at promoting the YMCA, and Herb Barall for his grandson's 11 points for Suffolk University. Sue Klock for her son's tear producing wedding toast, withTed Mosebach, and Peter Klock futher adding to the coffers.
Today's announcements: 1. Jean Wishart is in Hartford Hospital after suffering a heart attack on Monday. 2. Bill Leone continues to do better at the Glastonbury Health Care facility and is getting the necessary physical therapy. 3. DG Sue Klock announced that RI had met the $200,000,000 Gates Foundation Challenge and also received another $50,000,000 to aid in the elimination of Polio. Great News! 4. Several members are going on a Winter outing in Grafton, Vermont on February 7-9. If anyone is interested in joining the group give Bob Wood a call. 5. President Peter announced that the Annual Meeting, followed by a Club Assembly will take place next week (2/25). Election of officers and a vote on an amendment to the by-laws will take place (increasing the number of board members to include possible past presidents) . He also gave the Club a Homework Assignment! In order to be eligible for a Presidential Citation EVERY member of the club must donate to the Foundation. The Assignment - If one member makes a contribution for a non contributing member in order to meet the goal of 100% club participation - does it meet the 4 way Test? Think about it! 6. Yvette Roming spoke on the Duck Race (6/3/12) and noted we will be getting back to selling hot dogs and hamburgers, a throwback to fun times past! There will be a very important meeting on February 2nd, 5PM, at the main community room at Goodwin College. 7. President Peter spoke about his efforts to revitalize the EHHS Interact Club.
Frank Collins substituted for a no show speaker. He spoke on the topic "What is Rotary Beyond the Local Club". He outlined the various ways one can serve beyond the Club level. A first step would be to become involved at the District Level by being active on a district committee. The next level, open to past presidents, would be District Governor, which he noted we have produced 7 to date! Beyond the DG, one could choose to try and become a International Director, and then become one of the RI officers. Many opportunities exist for those willing to serve RI in this ever changing climate. Thanks, Frank for the explanation of "Rotary Beyond the Club".
Congratulations to Jay Stewart for her make-up at Glastonbury - haven't seen too many of these lately!
'til next week - Bob Wood