HIGH GEAR: PAUL HARRIS AWARDS DINNER April 18, 2012
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It was a rather large crowd at the Gallery consisting of members, awards recipients, their spouses, children and grandchildren. The hour of mingling, enjoying ones favorite drinks and plucking goodies from the passing trays was well under way when the writer arrived.
Although President Peter rang the bell on time, it took a while to get everyone’s attention that the Rotary Song was well under way. By the time the people in the rear of the hall joined in, Pledge of Allegiance was in progress. Besides this obvious attention lag, there must be an explanation also for the off key and out of synchronized rendition of these vocal endeavors from a group known for their singing prowess. I can assure the guests and family members who attended, that we are usually much better.
Sue Klock gave a beautiful invocation reminding us of our core values, service to others and the joy of being a Rotarian.
Our Master of Ceremonies, none other than our own Dan Larsen with his witty comments and occasional jokes entertained us well. He made us observe the striking persona look alike of Neil Cunningham and Paul Harris. He thanked Bob B. and Janice F. for their huge efforts in organizing this event that was attended by well over 100 people.
My description of the main event below might have inaccuracies that will require corrections at next week’s High Gear because I was multi-tasking between being social and taking notes.
The main event started with the announcement of the award winners Rachel Buck, Emanuel Moshovos, Sheryl O’Connor and Charles Clarke. Art Bradbury introduced Rachel Buck who was born in England and a long time friend of the Bradbury Family. As a teacher at CBIA, she was awarded Teacher of the Year. She is very active in community services.
Judge Burrell introduced Emanuel Moshovos. They have known each other for forty years. He pointed out the Moe has been with the East Hartford Rotary for 43 years, is an active leader in the Greek Orthodox Church and is the president of the largest Greek-American Fraternity in the United States.
Sheryl O’Connor was introduced by Frank Collins. Sheryl has shown leadership, worked hard on projects and has accomplished a lot within her short five year tenure at the Club. This award preceding her being the President of our Club for the year 2012-13, speaks itself about her dedication and foresight.
Charles Clarke, who is celebrating his 55th wedding anniversary next month, was introduced by William Saunders. Born in Hartford, he started work in construction at age 13, suffered an injury serving the Nation, later joined the National Guard and retired from work in 1999. He is active in community and civic activities, including but not limited to being the Flag Chairman for the Veterans, running the Koats for Kids program and serving at the Habitat for Humanity.
Dan Larsen, after interjecting another joke, requested the awards recipients and the people who introduced them to come to the front for receiving their medal from Peter and Sue Klock. The pin and the certificate will be mailed or presented at a later date for reasons unknown. Photo moment followed the medal presentation, hugging, kissing and all formalities that go with such an occasion.
The formal part of the evening was declared closed.
Editor's Note: Last week's High Gear was not delivered due to some server problems at Clubrunner. While we are sorry for the inconvenience, it was beyond our control. We have included it below for your edification.