Would you believe? As I approached the Bar, the amazing Chris said, “Hi Bob, will that be a Bud Light and a Pinot Grigio?” How does he do it?  He has most names memorized and associated with their favorite beverage. After taking the required beverage a trip to the snack table ensued.  It was neatly filled with hot meatballs, an antipasto platter loaded with meats and cheeses, some bruschetta, olives, and breads.  Very tempting.  In addition to the table, bacon wrapped scallops, and stuffed mushrooms were generously passed around to the many Rotarians and guests who were enjoying the opportunity to socialize with one another.

With the “Happy Hour” winding down President Dave Amberg approached the podium and tried to round up his flock as they scrambled to their selected tables.  As the commotion died down, president Dave rang his own Swiss Cow Bell and brought us together.  With a song and the Pledge completed, Marc Glass was summoned to the podium to give the Invocation. He said that we were blessed with many things, food to eat, clothes to wear and shelter to house us.  We should be grateful, but realize that there are many in this world who are not so fortunate.  In the Rotary Spirit we should reach out and practice “Service Above Self”. That being done, our meal was served.

Again, Pam and her staff put together another great meal.  A starter salad of mixed greens preceded the main entrée. Choices at our table were, Filet mignon, prime rib, and salmon.  All were accompanied with roast potatoes and Green beans.  Comments were extremely positive, and most left with enough for another meal.  Dessert was their signature ice cream pie.  Assorted coffees and after dinner drinks followed to complete the evening’s repast.

President Dave brought us back into session and dispensed with individual introductions as we had a bumper crop of spouses, friends, and guests joining us in our Holiday Fest, They, however, would not be spared the opportunity to be serenaded with the Great East Hartford Rotary  Welcome Song!  Art Bradbury and George Schoen led us in a spirited rendition of the above classic.  Dave then thanked Bob and Ceil for their efforts, and Pam and staff for the food and service.  Jack Sayre was also singled out for his efforts at organizing the Salvation Army bell ringing service opportunity.  A job well done with thanks to all who participated!

The highlight of the evening was the long standing East Hartford Rotary tradition of introducing the new Paul Harris nominees.  Paul Harris Committee Chair Jim Watts was called upon to announce this year’s selections.  The three nominees were Mary Martin, Empress of All things Rotary, George Agnelli, world’s greatest raffle master, and Melody Curry, former East Hartford Mayor and now a Connecticut State Commissioner.  These three will be formally presented with their recognitions in March at a date to be determined.  The East Hartford Rotary Club will make a $3,000 donation to the Foundation in their honor.  Nicely done, Jim.

 In the final act of the evening, the raffle masters. Bob Buettner and Ceil Collins came forth and three winners were selected.  The grand prize winner was Kevin Kickery, who won $20 in cash, and $80 in lottery tickets which yielded total of $133 – not bad for a $10 investment. Does working for Farmington Bank give him an investment advantage?  One ticket actually won $100!  Second prize, a huge poinsettia, went to Bob Wood, and Third prize, a musical thingy (actual description) went to Dan Russell.

President Dave wished all a merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and Peace and Good Will to All. The End!

‘til next week, Bob Wood