High Gear, June 26, 2013

Hot, Humid, and Cloudy can be used to identify the start of our Sgt. at Arms Picnic at Wickham Park this Wednesday.  But, but, but the smiling faces and good cheer of our East Hartford Rotarians made everything good.  Dick McCarthy with help from our old friend Bob Richmond got things all set up. Dick deserves a huge THANK YOU!!!  Plenty of ice and cold beer, along with wine and more potent drink were in evidence as we arrived.    Salted nuts, pretzels and cocktail mixes graced the tables to get us started. Manelly Caterers started the cocktail hour (+) with clam chowder and cheese and crackers, veggies and dip.  Jack Sayre had a spray bottle of mosquito repellent which he graciously passed around to all of us sweet blooded people.

Soon to be Past President Sheryl rang the bell and the song started loud and clear.  Art Bradbury waved his smart phone with the American Flag on the screen for the pledge.  President Sheryl gave the invocation and all fines were forgiven. 

Yvette Roming	Brian Liss

Special guest, State Representative Henry Gengra, was introduced and he presented a proclamation from the General Assembly to Yvette Roming and Brian Liss for all their contributions to Rotary. These were given in recognition of the two of them receiving the Paul Harris Award this year.

The Dinner bell rung for the 32 Rotarians present (40 had signed up).  In buffet style, we lined up to a sumptuous feast. Tossed salad to start, then baked beans, potato salad, corn on the cob, BBQ ribs, BBQ chicken, cornbread, and rolls.  As we sat down on the picnic tables under the pavilion, many conversations were carried on by each table. Dessert was watermelon andcookies. They said oatmeal cookies, but I don't think so.  The rain that came did nothing to dampen our spirits or our fun.  Many did not even realize it was raining. Around 6:30 things started to quiet down and we left with doggie bags for those that wanted them. The rain had stopped as we made our way to our cars.  A good end to a great picnic.

 It was good to see Bob Richmond again.  Things are settling down for him and with a little prodding, I think we will see him back on our membership list.  A few latecomers were able to squeeze into the tables and join in to the wonderful camaraderie.  Jay Stewart mentioned that Ruth Sheehan spent another day in the hospital for more treatment on her operation.  She is home again.  Still not on solid foods, but in good spirits and has a very positive attitude.  She misses the Rotary meetings and hopes to be back soon.

Remember there is no meeting JULY 3rd due to the holiday but newly elected President George Schoen will be  ringing the bell July 10th.

This is my last High Gear and my thanks to Doug Willett and Art Bradbury for their tips and help.