I decided to begin this week’s High Gear article on Monday so that I can adequately cover the detail of the Duck Race, one of our two major fundraisers for our club each year. The time and effort that has been put forth by club members is a testament to what we are as individuals and as part in a larger group. But the day began with such tragedy in Orlando and then one of our own Rotarians, Jack Sayre, was seriously hurt simply volunteering one’s time to the day’s activities. I shall not dwell on the sadness I feel—by the time you read this, many American’s will be moving on with their lives and somehow capable of compartmentalizing the shootings. But, never let hate win—we are better than that and as Rotarians we bring something special to others lives.

 

Jack was hurt while attempting to start a truck that we would use for the Duck Race activities. As he inadvertently released the emergency brake, the vehicle rolled and he fell under the wheel. The result was many broken bones, ankle, femur and ribs, and a stay in the ICU unit of St. Francis Hospital.  Thank goodness for the quick response of Marc Glass and the EMT’s to minimize his injuries. More later in this writing.

 

Sunday was festive and volunteers were out in force. The weather and the river were cooperative. The river rats of Alex Wisz, Alex’s son, John O’Conner and Mike Kerrigan ensured the trip down the Hockanum by the reluctant ducks would be smooth and competitive. Officer Roner provided security and traffic control (no donuts) and the EH Public Works assisted with the “duck dump”. Happy Jack Martin announced the race, and the legion of fans crowded the finish line to see what duck would paddle the fastest. Dan Larson seemed to be everywhere as he encouraged the ducks to their final destination so he could get home for a nap.

 

As the ducks crossed the finish line and the winners were secured in their plastic bins, Dave Amberg slipped on some mud and almost ended up in the Hock. He smiled and went about his duties but this writer knows he is sore at home and providing Chicky no help with today’s household chores. Be careful on the mud! Mary Martin was quick to tally the winners and make announcements much to the dismay of some of the observers whose names were not announced.

 

For the record, the winners were: Dan Russell won the grand prize of $5,000, second place and winner of $1,000 is Chris Lindbloom and the 3rd, 4^th and 5^th winners of $250 were Jaden Goddard, Larry Frazier (donating to the scholarship fund) and Greg Davis. We picked up, washed the ducks and loaded the trucks. Many thanks to Alex for the food and Dan for the drinks.  It was another successful fund raisers considering the other events that day.

 

Jump to Wednesday‘s lunch meeting that was spectacular in weather and attendance. The room still has a subtle tone to it as most carry on small chit chat and a good number show up close to bell ringing time and that doesn’t allow this writer to extract much in the way of printable dirt.

 

Nick Cecere was busy with Sargent at Arms duties. President Marc was dressed up because he was going to South Windsor Rotary for their dinner meeting. Mo Moshovos cracked Bob Buettner and me up for trying to give me money for his granddaughter’s accomplishments. I was going to keep the donation but Bob insisted he go see Nick.

 

In jest, I asked our esteemed president what I should do if I will be away for most of July and can’t make a meeting. His response fell in the “I don’t care what happens in July” category. I say we reelect him!

 

The Mayor was present along with three of her town hall staff. Was it the meatballs that drew them in or a chance to hear a guy speak about the meatloaf he is dealing with in Hartford? I noted Mary Martin checking out the desert first before dinner was served. How does she stay so slim this writer wants to know? And Neal Cunningham put on someone else’s badge in error but we all know his name anyway.

 

We sang with aplomb, honored our country and Dave Amberg provided our weekly inspiration. Short, sweet and pertinent to what we are all feeling today. Off to lunch of pasta, meatballs, garlic knots and salad. I heard there was carrot cake but it was a no show on my table. The welcome song was offered by Chuck Clark and Herb Tischofer. Good job, gents. Sargeant of Arms Nick Cecere had lots to report today with a particular emphasis on Jack Sayre and hopping for a quick and complete recovery. I wish I had room for them all but this is running long so please excuse the omissions of the many grateful and generous Rotarians. We heard from Dan Russell that his wife, Betty, has been moved to Manchester Manor as she continues her recovery. We sang happy Birthday for Janice Freschlin. Nick read a wonderful story about forgetfulness that had us rapt with interest. But I can’t remember what he said as he walked away.

 

We had many guests and are grateful for their support. We received a final tally on the Duck Race. Our esteemed George Agnelli sold 524 of our 1976 tickets sold. A standing ovation was in order. Bill Saunders had checked in on Tony Pagano and Tom Westbrook. He would like to start a cheer committee so if interested see Bill. A great way to stay in touch with old friends. Dan Larson read a moving letter that was penned by Mark Sheinberg, President of Goodwin College, that was sent to alumni and friends of the college. Its focus was clearly on giving us comfort but inspiration in these times of despair. The simple message is that each of us can make a difference. Thanks Mark and thanks Dan for sharing. Dan Firestone won the raffle. Sheryl O’Connor introduced the goals of the Rotary Foundation and the Major Gifts Committee. This is an initiative to raise $1,000,000 over a two year period. Much more to follow on this important fundraiser. Alex again thanked all who helped with the Duck Race. I’d like to think we made his job easier but he really busted his hump on this. Nice job, Alex.

 

As promised earlier, here is more on Jack Sayre’s recovery. He did have to have surgery to help some of his broken ribs heal correctly. So on top of being run over, a ride in an ambulance, time in the ICU, surgery and looking up at Marc as he asks “are you all right”, he is recovering well. I do have an answer to Marc’s question but it is not printable!

 

And lastly, our featured speaker, Hartford Mayor Luke Bronin was introduced. He spoke candidly about the state of affairs in Hartford and the dire financial situation they are in (a $40 million deficit this year and next) with no source of additional revenue and cuts that are already to the bone.  His focus is on regionalization and the concept that all towns in the capital region will either benefit from Hartford’s recovery or be drawn down with them as property values erode and large employers depart with the failure of our capital city. There was much to learn from his presentation and I would ask you all to follow this closely in the newspapers and on the internet as he works to bring Hartford back from the precipice.

 

I must say I am drained from this report. Its content, length and the emotion I have tried to convey have has left me wanting for a cold beverage. The meeting today was full of content and I cannot put everything in here that would do it justice. If you can make a meeting, please do so. I also apologize for leaving many names out as I tried to make this as brief as possible. So, I shall say good bye for now and look forward to reading the next High Gear.