High Gear, March 5, 2014

We gathered for our first meeting in March with a cloudy sky hovering over the Ridge and temperature in the low thirties. Still too early to expect spring but I did detect a touch of spring enthusiasm in our voices singing the Rotary Song. After the Pledge of Allegiance and a very thoughtful invocation by President George, we sat down for a lunch of Tilapia, wild rice and green beans followed by bread pudding topped off with whipped cream.

Today was not only Ash Wednesday but also the second visit by Yvette since the birth of her daughter Briana, who was in tow in a very comfortable means of transportation. Briana’s presence clearly brought down the average age of the club attendees today.

Among the guests were Earle Tarbell from East Windsor Rotary Club and our Speaker Eileen Buckheit. Larry Hangland and Larry Frazier with Briana in his arms charmed the guests with the Welcome Song.

Sergeant-At-Arms, Dick McCarthy reported a hefty earning for: three birthdays (Bob Wood, Larry Hangland and John O’Connor), four club anniversaries (Anwar Hossain-6 years, Yvette Roming-5 years, Jay Stewart-6 years and Dan Larson-17 years), Marc Glass for getting compliments about his son’s marvelous presentation last week, Jack Martin for a successful surgery ( I did hear someone asking what was taken out!), Dan Larson for honoring his favorite jeweler (2 watches? with Daylight Savings starting this Sunday some of us will need two watches!), Sue Klock, John O’Connor and Brian Liss for various announcements. Bill Saunders’ grandson’s report on Medicare is making its way to the Congress. My apologies to anyone that I missed.

Announcement:

1.         Sue Klock will hold a Rotary Information meeting in Windsor and needs a projection screen (which was immediately offered by 2 members, saving $150).

2.         John O’Connor spoke about the YMCA’s Strong Kids campaign and the upcoming meeting on March 22, 2014 in the morning at the High School (which should not conflict with the Mayor’s Ball in the evening).

3.         There will not be any report by the Sergeant-At-Arms during the next two club meetings.

4.         Call Marc if you have not already signed up for the March 12, 2014 evening meeting at Goodwin College. Guests eat free (and members too, if they bring a guest). IS THAT CLEAR???

5.         President George wanted everyone to know that there is still time to sign up for the District Conference.

6.         Please contact Ceil at 860-568-3497 or ceilcollins@aol.com for Paul Harris Dinner info.

Caring Moments:

1.         Mary Tamiso is recuperating from a bad fall requiring 50 stiches to her face.

2.         Ned Lynch suffered a shattered leg while skiing and is facing a long recovery.

3.         Scotty Howat’s funeral will be at First Church in So. Windsor at 10:00 AM on Saturday.

4.         Al Turner will need a hip replacement to rectify the problem caused by his recent fall.

Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers. Cards and phone calls will also be welcome.

Bob Buettner had the winning ticket # 9661.

Our guest speaker Eileen Buckheit, the East Hartford Development Director, was introduced by John O’Connor. She talked about all the new and exciting developments that are bringing new businesses, increasing the grand list, enhancing tax revenues and creating employment. Most notably is the proposed 450,000 sq. ft. UTC Research Center that has the potential of earning $10M in Building Permit Fees for the Town.

Have a good week.