High Gear, September 25, 2013
Another spectacular September day drew a good crowd to the Ridge where we listened to a Rotary themed invocation from Jim Fallon and dined on acorn squash stew. Reviews at our table ranged from “tasty” and “one of my favorites” to “what is that” and “what’s for lunch.” A chocolate mousse dessert soothed over the differences.
Guests today included good friend, John Mitchell from the South Windsor Club
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| John Mitchell | Diane Willett |
, Al Bates a 24 year member of the Putnam Club who is a potential transfer due to his new job at Riverside Health Center, and the inimitable Diane Willett, in town for a funeral and a
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| Ted Mosebach |
visit to her favorite jewelry store who decided to drop in for lunch. Ted Mosebach and Brian Liss led an enthusiastic version of the Welcome Song.
Despite repeated problems with the microphone, Dan Firestone was gleeful about his haul as Sergeant At Arms. Peter Klock paid a dollar per year for his birthday and that’s a lot of dollars. His partner, Sue, matched his contribution and called it his birthday gift. Ned Lynch paid a dollar per year to turn 55 and asked all those who are above and below 55 to sing the birthday song. Most of us joined in. Sam Leone contributing generously for his birthday
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| Sam Leone |
and his club anniversary, noted his 34 years in Rotary, his Past President and Paul Harris status and the fact he is still going strong at the age of 78. Dan Russell corrected the date of his anniversary and paid to do so.
Ruthie Sheehan couldn’t resist rejoicing in the misfortune of others and paid to denigrate the baseball franchise in the Bronx. Ned Lynch, to his credit, was content with celebrating the Red Sox pennant. Ever gracious Doug Willett paid to congratulate the Red Sox fans in the audience for the infrequent accomplishment of their favorite team. Both Brian Liss and Dan Firestone survived last Saturday’s physical ordeals. Well done, guys.
The day’s announcements were as follows:
· District Foundation Dinner is November 7th.
· A Foundation Seminar is scheduled for October 30th at the Ridge. All are welcome.
· Marc Glass is in a cast with another to follow soon. Hopes to return at our next meeting.
· Peter Klock reported that the Club has received a check for $33.95 from Arcadia Publishing, our share of the sale of 35 copies of our book of photos of East Hartford.
· Neal Cunningham suggested that those who are volunteering for the Water Station show up at 7:30 a.m. and not to worry about whether they were able to register on line or not.
· Steve Jacoby is in need of Job Shadowing slots for EHHS students on October 23rd. Pick up the students at the high school at 8 a.m., have they visit the business until noon, and finish with lunch at the Ridge. Please give it some thought. This is one of our longest running services to the community.
· Doug Willett reminded all that the Fireside Chats begin on September 30th and run through October 10th. Please to sure you notify your chat leader if you are unable to attend.
· Bill Saunders reported on another successful Golf Tournament and thanked multiple folks for their contributions. Please see the attached addendum.
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| Bill Saunders |
The raffle was won by Jay Stewart this week. Makeups were reported by Mike Derr at Ofallon, MO, Steve Jacoby – two in Rocky Hill, Frank and Ceil Collins – 5 at the Zone Institute and 1 at the Golf Tournament, and Sue and Peter Klock – 5 at the Zone Institute.
Our speaker today was Mike Speciale, Executive Director of the New England Air Museum at Bradley International Airport. Mike, a highly effective and entertaining speaker, took us through the history of the Air Museum and the many twists and turns that led to its present state since its inception in 1959. Fires, indoor rain fall, heavy snow and tornados all played a role in the Museum’s evolution. The Museum has been in its current location since 1981
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| Mike Speciale |
and has grown to three exhibit buildings with a fourth in the planning stages.
The Air Museum has over 80 vintage aircraft including the oldest surviving airplane in the U.S. dating back to 1870. It also has exhibits, simulators and demonstrations and conducts many special events, group tours and educational programs. It is available for birthday parties, rental for special events, and its simulators allow you the chance to fly multiple types of aircraft. It is at 36 Perimeter Road off RT 75 in Windsor Locks. Great program and definitely a future place to visit.
That’s enough for this week and I am ready to turn the writing over to Mary Martin who will take us through the month of October.