A beautiful spring day meant each one of us joining today’s meeting, whether in person at Goodwin, or via Zoom, gave up a bit of sunshine. That said, it was a great meeting and well worth attending! There were 15 Rotarians in the room plus two online.
Alex rang his portable bell at 12:11, followed by recitations of the pledge and the 4-way test. Maura Callahan, our newest Rotarian provided a beautiful inspiring message beginning with Margret Mead’s quote: "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed individuals can change the world. In fact, it's the only thing that ever has." Certainly, this applies to our East Hartford Rotary Club!
Peter Klock introduced our guest, long-time Rotarian, Tom Reynolds, who recently joined the Glastonbury Club. Tom moved from Ledyard to Glastonbury and works with the Manchester Community College Foundation. As our guest, Tom led the way to a great lunch buffet. Thanks again to Guy LaBella, working with Roma’s, the group enjoyed two kinds of pizza, as well as tuna or chicken parmesan grinders, and a salad of mixed greens.
During caring moments, we learned that two of Ruthie’s grandsons were able to attend the final game of the Final Four. She held up a souvenir flag as proof.
Alex provided updates on:
- Our pollinator garden project which he hopes will be the focus of our club’s participation in the Rotary Day of Service on May 20th,
- Possible participation in Libraries without Borders, being promoted by our local library,
- Revival of the Academy of Finance at East Hartford High School.
Anwar introduced JonDarr Bradshaw, a US Army pilot who had a long professional relationship with NASA, and is now actively engaged in promoting programs for young people promoting STEM, science, technology, engineering and math. JonDarr recently joined the E Club of World Peace. While it would have been interesting to learn more about his club, this program was so packed with information about his work with young people and a global robotics competition, there was no time for anything else. Though it is not possible to detail here the mission of the organization, FIRST, thanks to Anwar, here is a link to investigate: https://www.firstinspires.org/ Most importantly, this group is bringing excitement about STEM to disadvantaged youth, especially children of color, living in areas where schools often lack funding. He mentioned how impressed he is that young women are taking the lead in the groups he mentors.
Alex rang the bell about 1:15 in order to allow time for the Golf Committee to meet immediately following our meeting.
Reported by Sue Klock, High Gear scribe for April.
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