Ted MosebachIt was a beautiful day as we walked into meeting today and the pleasant atmosphere continued during the Foundation Moment as Marc Glass reminded us of the significant contribution the Rotary Foundation makes to a better world.  Jack Sayre then led us in expressing thanks to the One who gives all good things. 

 

          We then settled in to a scrumptious lunch. Well, if you like butternut squash.  Now, I understand that some do like it, but I don’t know if that’s normal.  At our table Jim Reik dug into his but I always found him an unusually hale and hearty fellow.  The beef stew on top was very fine and altogether it made what my wife might have described as a colorful presentation.  I do have an appreciation for the visual arts but, still, it was squash.  I enjoyed the stew and ate three rolls. 

 

          There were no guests today and we did not sing the Welcome Song in deference to our busy schedule.  George Agnelli wanted to lead us in the singing anyway but he will need to wait until next week.  I think he’s been practicing his moves.

 

          Bob Buettner, generous Rotarian that he is, paid for his Rotary Anniversary which was missed last month.  Kind of like interest.  Guy Labella had the audacity to call Dan Larson during a golf committee meeting and paid a price.  Frank Collins had his picture in the paper with his favorite Connecticut Governor.  I think it’s a budding bromance.  Ask Frank.Image Dan Russell paid again to mention that the East Hartford Historical Society is selling 18th and 19th century East Hartford pictorial calendars for 2013.  The cost is $12.00.  And President Sheryl paid to announce the free holiday concert featuring the Hartford Chorale, December 2, 3:00 PM at the First Congregational Church of South Windsor.  And Mo Moshovos (did he pay?) shared that there is a free Rachmaninoff sacred music concert with over 60 voices at the St. George Greek Orthodox Church on Friday night, 7:30 PM.

 

Caring Moments:

 

·        George Finch is healing well

·        Jack Ghagan is quite sick in St. Francis hospital

·        Kathy McCabe is upbeat

·        Jean Wishart has a good and bad days at home

·        Andy Andreo’s wife is home recovering from a broken back

 

There is so much for which to pray.  For all that these wonderful friends need, please don’t stop.

 

          The club shared some Mike Malinguaggio stories.  They were delightful and heartwarming.  How we will miss him!

 

 

          Mary Martin reminded us that the annual Holiday Toy Programs, sponsored by the East Hartford Social Services Department, is in full swing.Image  New unwrapped toys, hats, and mittens for children ages 0 top 10 will be distributed by them later in December.  Donations should be received by Wednesday, December 5th.  East Hartford Rotary will collect your donation at our lunchtime meeting or you can bring the item directly to Town Hall. Needed items include: gifts for babies up to 18 months, hats and mitten for children up to five years, and gift cards to places such as Wal-Mart or Target.  Social Services will use the gift cards to fill-in items in categories that are lacking donations.  Checks are welcome too and can be made out to “Town of East Hartford Special Program”.  For additional info, please speak with Mary Martin.

 

          The Board of Directors meets tonight, 5:30 PM at the Y.  Prime Rib and Open Bar courtesy of Brian.  Don’t be late.

 

          George SchoenImage announced that the golf tournament netted $27,000! Absolutely incredible!  To the Golf Committee and everyone who worked so hard for the tournament, on behalf of the whole club and everyone who will benefit over the coming year from the sharing of those funds, thank you so much!

 

          The club will be ringing the bell again this holiday season for the Salvation Army on the four Saturdays in December.  Sign–up charts are available at Wednesday meetings.

 

          The Manchester Road Race could use volunteers.  If interested, please meet Jack Sayre at the Start/Finish line across from St. James church at 8:30 AM.

 

          Wednesday, 11:30 AM, New Generations Committee at the Ridge.

 

          The Club Holiday Party is on Wednesday December 5, at the Gallery.  Dinner choices are Prime Rib, Chicken Marcella, or Stuffed Shrimp.  The cost is $45.00.  A Reservation Sheet is going around at club meetings or contact Ceil Collins.

 

          The fruit sale citrus is coming this week either Friday or Saturday.  If on Saturday help will be needed to unload it at Dan Russell’s.  Please let Peter Klock know if you can help.

 

          Jim Reik won the Raffle and was so excited he smiled.

 

         Image Bob Buettner reviewed what was discussed at the Fireside Chats.  There were 42 participants.  The full report is available on Club Runner.

 

          Next week is wine and cheese so there is no need to drink before you get to the Ridge.

 

          Ted Mosebach