Walking into the Memorial Clubhouse and turning right, into the large conference room, gave one a sudden fright. Looking at the measly spread of dishes on the tables gave cause for alarm. Gadzooks! Is this our buffet lunch? Happily, the next objects in view were wine and champagne glasses already topped off with - you guessed it - wine and champagne. And a wave of relief passed quickly over us all with the realization that the "buffet lunch" was actually a spread of appetizers set out to go with the afore-mentioned liquid refreshments. The noise level was noticeably raised in concert with the consumption of the aforementioned liquid refreshments. And we were off to a good start on the last meeting of 2004. When the noise level had reached the appropriate level, Pres. Dan ushered us in to our dining tables, calling upon George Stewart for the Invocation.
Good thing we had no speaker scheduled for today, because George took his own time and a speaker's time and then some. However, in fairness, the Blessing that George delivered was excellent, meaningful and most appropriate to the place of Rotary in the World (in spite of the fact that some Rotarians, veterans of the "eat your lunch asap" philosophy, had finished their lunch before George had completed the Blessing) . Another Amazing Feat of E. H. Rotary hard to beat anywhere.
If any of us who were a bit drowsy after a few sips of the fruit of the grape, Pres. Dan got EVERYONE'S attention with a powerful swipe at the Bell that woke up some off duty firemen at the new safety center.
Thus Pres. Dan moved us into the business of the day calling upon Larry Frazier to introduce our only guest, the venerable former member Fred Campbell, and then asked Larry to lead us in the Welcome Song, a strong rendition despite the somewhat reduced cast of characters (characters? characters? What does he mean by that?).
Special thanks to Sgt. Jack Ghagan for his fine compliments on the undersigned's identification of new grandfather(s), singular and/or plural, to which I now add congratulations to all the Club grandfathers (and grandmothers, too). I don't want to leave anyone out. That does it, Jack, so you can pass the Badge of Office on to the next Sergeant and rest on your laurels. And always remember that the High Gear editor has the last word. But before resting, Jack announced anniversaries for Bill Saunders (43) and Fred Campbell (54). They have very understanding wives! And lest we forget, Larry Churchill lost a century somewhere, dating his lunch card 1905. Or was he simply honoring the significance of that date to Rotary? Larry? Or is that the forgetfulness you were talking about?
Sad notes: George Schoen's father-in-law died this morning. Scotty Howatt is not doing well at the Hospital. Still, no calls or cards.
With best wishes for a happy and successful New Year to all,
GWB
High Gear -- December 22, 2004
What a great night for the Rotary Holiday Party! Ninety-two Rotarians, spouses and friends journeyed to this Manchester restaurant for the annual yuletide bash. The weather was warm and pleasant, everyone was in a festive mood and the ambience was great at the Adam’s Mill Banquet Hall. Candle centerpieces adorned each table and the food was plentiful and excellent.
President Dan commenced the formal part of the evening by calling on Don Hallquist to lead in singing the welcome song. Art Bradbury gave the invocation and asked those assembled to remember those Rotarians not able to be with us this evening because of illness – Scotty Howat, Tom Galvin, and Bob Wood. He also suggested we keep Helen Davis’ daughter, Randy Davis Gagne, who is undergoing cancer treatment, in our prayers.
Sergeant-at-Arms Report:
Jack Ghagan, representing the illustrious Sergeant-at-Arms Committee, reported that in keeping with the holiday spirit all customary fines would be suspended for the evening. He further noted Bev Saunders was celebrating a birthday. Congratulations Bev!
Paul Harris Awards:
President Dan announced the selection of three Rotarians to receive the club sponsorship for Paul Harris Awards this year. They are: Dave Amberg, Sue Klock and Peter Klock.
He further announced that he was giving his wife, Hope, a Paul Harris Award.
Congratulations to each of you for receiving this high honor from Rotary. The actual awards ceremony will be held later in the year.
Announcements:
Special thanks go to Bob and Nancy Richmond who, as a committee of two, handled all details for the Holiday Party. It truly was a great event and we appreciate your time and efforts on our behalf.
The Annual Meeting is scheduled for next Wednesday, December 15, 2004 – for the purpose of electing officers and directors for the coming Rotary year, which commences on July 1, 2005.
Special thanks go to Frank & Ceil Collins for the beautiful table centerpieces.
Cookies4Heroes:
The Rotary Club of Stuart, Florida, along with local Rotary Clubs, is sponsoring this Cookies4Heroes Program. The club asks anyone to identify Heroes among us such as Police Officers, Fireman, EMTs, Armed Services Personnel, etc. And arrange to send them a GiftPack of cookies. The cost for this GiftPack is $20.00 (plus S&H). In addition to providing a service to those Heroes in our lives, the designated local Rotary Club will receive $5.00 from each order. If interested, the Internet addresses is: Cookies4dough.com – then click on Cookies4Heroes – Local Community, or Cookies4Heroes – Armed Services.
That’s it for this edition of our weekly newsletter. May each of you have a joyous holiday season and a happy, healthy New Year.
Don Cramer, aka The Retired Hornet
Happy Holidays! Today was a real change of pace. There we were singing R-O-T-A-R-Y (No Piano from Don Hallquist, but he did start us off in song). And where were we singing? In the Training Room of the new Safety Complex of the East Hartford Police and Fire Departments now on School Street and running south from Tolland towards Burnside Avenue. The new main entrance is located on Tolland Street.
Pres. Dan called upon Gil Wishart who opened our meeting with a well-constructed prayer. Why "well-constructed"? Well, we had this new facility to see, consisting of an older building, to which the new construction made a sizeable increase in useable area on several floors. Thus Gil's invocation was most appropriate. Pres. Dan read a letter of thanks from Rotary District 6960 in Florida for the help which our Club and others around the Country gave in responding to the plight of the residents in this hurricanes-swept area of Florida.
Following a boxed lunch in the new Training Room (the lunch not necessarily being everyone's first choice but adequate for the occasion), Mayor Tim Larson introduced us to the respective Chiefs of the Police and Fire Departments, who spoke briefly to us on their particular uses of the new facility. A graphic display of the old and new was presented showing all three levels of the structure and the approximate area of 93,000 square feet. Thereafter, we broke up into groups of five or so and, with the help of police and fire personnel toured the respective new additions and became educated on the the facility and the advantages which the new space gives to them in their respective missions. Within the limits of the budget allowed for this new facility, they have arrived at state of the art status in the equipment and space needed to carry out their responsibilities. The ease of communications within each Department has been greatly improved in this multi-station facility. Not only have the day-to-day operations been made more efficient, but the handling of major emergencies has been considered and space and facilities have been allocated to deal with such an event. Both Chiefs made mention of how morale in both Departments has risen as the police officers and firemen have become used to working in the new building.
Announcements: Pres. Dan reminded us that there will be no noon meeting next week, the annual Holiday Dinner Meeting being scheduled for that evening at Adam's Mill in Manchester starting at 6:00 P.M. Each couple should bring one unwrapped toy to give to the needy children of younger ages.
Roy Spiller asked for volunteers to fill in for the Annual Bell Ringing. He needs people for 12/11/04 at 3 to 4 P.M. and 6 to 7 P.M.. He also needs help for several hours on 12/18/04. Call Roy if you can work any of these into your schedule.
Reminder: The Annual Meeting is scheduled at the Ridge on Wednesday, December 15, 2004 at 12:15 P.M.
High Gear -- November 24, 2004
Respectfully submitted, Gerry Brady
High Gear -- November 17, 2004
A grand group of Rotarians gathered at the Ridge to enjoy the fellowship of the club. After opening ceremonies, including a prayer of thanksgiving from Dave Amberg, the group enjoyed a warming fall dish of chicken pot pie, salad with balsamic vinaigrette dressing and, my favorite, chocolate cake.
We had a number of very special guests today. Hope Firestone joined us from the West Hartford club and offered us the opportunity to buy natural holiday wreaths from their club for $25. A list went around, but if you missed it, contact Hope to order a wreath. Dan and Hope also shared with us the welcome to the world of their first granddaughter, Rachael. We had the honor of celebrating the 80th birthday of Jay Stewart. She was appreciative of our attendance at her party - and we sang pretty well! Representative Chris Stone, a former member, joined us too. We were also glad to welcome Gail Greaney back after 6 months of absence. Thank goodness the New Alliance Bank is settling down! Celerick Stephens, who is one of the GSE students going to Argentina in April for District 7890, thanked us for our support of his trip and assured us that he is very excited about the opportunity. We will hear from him again when he returns.
A surprising visitor was the Tin Man from the Wizard of Oz. On closer inspection, we discovered our own George Agnelli, still in costume from the kick-off party for the YMCA’s capitol campaign. Darlene Roberts announced that George was wearing the costume, as promised, in order collect $5 contributions to the club from the many Rotarians at the party. We also found out that Loretta Dienst is chairing the campaign with Frank Collins as honorary chair, and George Agnelli as head of the Gifts Division. He is looking for more volunteers to contact businesses for donations.
Don Hallquist is home and doing well. Send him cards! Dan Russell returned from Australia, where he visited 4 Rotary Clubs and was glad to see that the spirit of Rotary camaraderie and fun goes all the way around the world. Speaking of around the world, Carol Krantz shared pictures of her daughter in Iraq. She looked beautiful in her uniform standing in front of Sadam Hussein’s palace. A real reminder that we are all part of one small world. Mary Martin handed out brochures for the EH Holiday Fest Week-end and pointed out the dedication of the gazebo on Friday evening and the Dance Festival on Saturday evening that is co-sponsored by Rotary and the Circle of Life Arts for All program. Sue Klock reminded everyone to be kind to the High Gear Editor by submitting the names of guests and announcements in writing to the editor.
Sergeant of Arms, Larry Churchill, gladly collected contributions for George Agnelli’s costume as well as from George himself for the 75th Anniversary of Anderson’s Jewelers and for coming in late. George Stewart paid well for Jay’s birthday, and Art Bradbury paid 2 days in advance for his birthday. We also gave a rousing version of the birthday song to one of our guest speakers, Beth Harvey, celebrating her Sweet Sixteen with us. Doug Ouellette was surprised to find George & Jay Stewart named in an article about Jessica Moore in an Anchorage Alaska newspaper. And there was some problem for Spurge Stokes about leaf collection in West Hartford. A good day for the kitty, part of which was won in the raffle by Carmen Piscatello.
Make-ups:
Bob Brown – Manchester – 11/16 --Jack Ghagan and John Mozzicato – Laughlin NV – 11/3 and BHC Rotary – 11/4 --Frank and Ceil Collins – Williamstown MA – 11/16 and NYC, UN NGO Women Concerns Luncheon --Dan Russell – Australian Adventure at Burleigh Beach Club, Sydney Cove, Cairns sunrise & North Burleigh – Thanks for the banners, Dan.
Dates:
Dec 1 – Rotary meeting - new safety complex (police and
fire station) on Burnside Ave.
Dec 3 – Dedication of the Rotary Gazebo – Town Green, 6 PM
Dec 8 – Holiday Party, Adams Mill Restaurant, $35, see Bob Woods
Feb 5 – Hartford Centennial Bell Ball - $75, see Dan Firestone
Feb 8 – 10 – Ski Trip
Guest Speakers:
Steve Jacoby introduced members of the EH High School Interact Club, Midge Lenihan, Advisor, Laura Foran, President, and Beth Harvey, Vice-President. Steve congratulated EH for sponsoring one of the 22 clubs in our District. He said that there are Interact Clubs in 110 countries, providing 200,000 young people with the opportunity to learn about service above self.
Laura told us about her experiences at the week long World Affairs Seminar sponsored by RYLA in Whitewater, Wisconsin. She now has friends from around the world and a partner from Thomaston, CT, with whom she is raising money to fund a children’s wing of a hospital in Haiti. To do this, they are making and selling Holiday Wreaths for $10 each. Contact Steve this week to order yours.
Beth talked about some of the other activities of the club including working for Rebuild EH, having a successful bake sale, and participating in the Giving Tree with the Salvation Army. She also showed off her Interact T-shirt with the motto, “Service is the rent we pay for being human beings on this earth.”
The meeting was closed with one verse of “America.”
Next week will be a Wine and Cheese party at the Ridge with a special Thanksgiving message from Art Bradbury.
High Gear -- November 10, 2004
A brisk, bright day greeted EH Rotarians back to Sunset Ridge for our meeting.
President Dan led the welcomes, especially to Carmen Piscatello who came right
back to work as head of the raffle for the day. Guests today included Cynthia
Reik, Jim’s wife, and her walking buddy, Marilyn Pet, and our speaker, Jennifer
Parker. In the absence of music man, Don Hallquist, Tom Westbrook led the
Welcome Song, and Ted Mosebach gave thanks and asked that we live the 4-Way
Test. Once again, all together now, the third test is, Will it build
goodwill and better friendships?
I’m sorry to say that I did forget something from last week, the Make-up list. The secretary gave you all credit, but it’s important that we are reminded that making up is fun to do (isn’t that a song?).
Roy Spiller – Vernon – October 13, 18, 27.
Don Cramer – Fort Myers Beach, Florida – October 7, 14, 21
Bill Saunders – Fort Myers Beach, Florida – October 28
Frank & Ceil Collins – Wayne NJ – Reception for President Estess, Rochester NY – Eastern Cities Dinner, Hartford, CT – Hartford 25 Year Club, W. Springfield, MA – E Club Charter Night, New York City – Rotary UN Day, Fairfield, CT – Rotary Club
Steve Jacoby – Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic - Rotary Foundation Conference, Glastonbury CT – 10/27
Lunch today was a delicious dish of Beef Bourguignonne, steamed celery and carrots, white rice with wheat berries and wild rice, and bread pudding for dessert. Thanks again to Krause for their good food and service.
Sergeant of Arms Larry Churchill reported a slow day in the donation bucket with only a birthday for Larry Frazier, an anniversary for Mary Martin, and something about no green card for Carol? He had thought of a scheme to get us all to pay a buck as a welcome back gift, but was going to abandon the idea until Jim Fallon encouraged my table to anti-up. When we did, so did many others – brought in an extra $50. Thanks to all for these contributions.
Announcements:
-Ribbon Cutting for the new gazebo on Friday, Dec. 3 at 6pm at the EH Town Green.
-Salvation Army Bell ringing sign-up sheets for the first three week-ends in December available through Roy Spiller.
-Don Hallquist is in Hartford Hospital awaiting an artery cleaning. I hope he has good music to play during the operation. I understand that helps both patient and doctor.
-President Dan has nomination forms for any past president who would make a good District Governor.
-Paul Harris nominations being accepted by President Dan or Jim Watts.
-Hartford Rotary club will be having a celebration in honor of the RI Centennial Bell visit at the Bond Hotel in Hartford on February 5, 2005, $75per person. See President Dan for tickets. The Hartford Club was selected to have the bell because it was one of the first 100 Rotary Clubs established.
-**Correction** - this writer mistakenly announced that dues would be going up by $400 when in fact it is only by $4.00. President Dan is refusing to accept resignations based on my mistake.
-Board of Director’s meeting Monday, Nov. 15 at the EH CCC. All members welcome.
-President Dan has free, complimentary, no cost tickets to the Rockville Rotary Holiday Craft Fair on 11/27.
-Bill Saunders talked with Roger Nicholson, who just returned from a Heifer Project meeting, saying that he and Anne are doing well and that he has settled on a Rotary Club to join in the Pittsburgh area. But it seems they are having trouble finding a good church!
-Bob Richmond is circulating the list for our Holiday Party on 12/8/04. Cost is either $30 or $35 – I couldn’t catch the conclusion of the debate.
-Next week, at the Ridge, speaker Steve Jacoby will be talking about the Interact Club.
-George Stewart won the raffle.
Speaker:
Jim Reik introduced Jennifer Parker from the Wadsworth Athenaeum, a Cornell Graduate, and daughter and granddaughter of Rotarians. She hadn’t expected to speak to us today but her boss, Nicole Elkon, was indisposed Jennifer may have only been at this job since August but she certainly knows a lot about her establishment. From the history of the artists and exhibits to the construction of the 4 buildings, to the storage of the artwork, the special programs, the plans for expansion, and the parking situation, she knew it all. New Director Willard Holmes has decided to change some of the expansion plans previously announced for the Athenaeum. They will not close for the next 2 years, instead they will buy the Hartford Times building, move in there while the 4 existing buildings are restored to their original condition. Much of their permanent collection will travel during this time, keeping it safe and providing income for the museum. Programming will continue and more parking will be built on Front Street. For now, people are encouraged to park in the Morgan Street lot and take the free “Art Bus” to the Athenaeum. Several Rotarians are members of the Athenaeum and testified that it is a good deal. Join the Wadsworth and enjoy art, culture, music, films, book talks, docent tours and much, much more.
Respectfully submitted, Pat Porteous
The gathering at S. Congregational Church was somewhat quieter then usual. Our
favorite music man, Don Hallquist was not there to welcome our arrival.
Fortunately, the west wind didn't blow in Mary Poppins, nor did I see Pooh on
this Blustery Day, but there was a good group of EH Rotarians - enough to occupy
each table. I noticed an avoidance of political conversation; instead there was
lots of talk about house renovations and car repair stories. I wonder what that
was about!
With the ringing of the bell, there was a low, slow start to the Rotary song -
but the group gradually gained momentum in order to complete a rousing version
of our opening ritual. We also stumbled a bit over the 3rd statement in the
Four Way Test. Let's all try to remember that the 3rd question is "Will it
build goodwill and better friendships?" Gil Wishart offered a prayer of
gratitude. The lunch was a delicious plate of baked stuffed chicken, broccoli
au gratin, candied sweet potato and apple crisp for desert.
President Dan called the meeting to order at 11:40 in order to have time for the
many announcements. Here we go:
" Next week we meet at home on the Ridge, with speaker Nicole Elkon, Director
of External Affairs, Wadsworth Atheneum.
" Carmen Piscatello is home again and doing better, Don Hallquist's surgery
was postponed because he is not feeling well.
" We received a thank you note for our $500 contribution to the Cambodian
Project.
" If any past president would like to be nominated for District Governor see
President Dan for application forms. He also has registration forms for the
conference celebration in Chicago next summer.
" The RI Council on Legislation has voted to increase our annual dues by $400
per person over a 4 yr period. This is warning that our EH dues will have to
increase to meet this new level.
" Jim Watts announced that it is time to nominate candidates for the Paul
Harris Awards. The group will meet at the Ridge on Dec. 1 at 10:30 am to review
the applications.
" Carol Krantz announced problems with the fruit sale. Basically, we would
be unable to get our order in on time for a before Christmas delivery. After
discussion and suggestions, a motion was presented and passed to have the Board
propose an alternative fund-raising project.
" Bob Richmond announced that the Holiday Party would be on Dec. 8. Details
to follow.
" Bob is also announced that our Nominating Committee is now accepting
nominations for our Board of Directors. See him or Neil Cunningham for
applications.
" This week is the deadline to buy tickets to the Annual Foundation Dinner on
Saturday, November 20, honoring Frank and Ceil Collins. See Neil immediately
for tickets.
" Art Bradbury is appearing in the production of "Jekyll and Hyde" at the
Little Theater of Manchester the first 3 weekends in November.
" Glen Peterson is getting ideas for this year's Literacy Initiative. He
asked how many people might be interested in reading to students and talking
about the importance of reading in one's life. There was enough interest to
encourage Glen to plan this for Read Across America Day in early March.
" Steve Jacoby presented the club with a banner from Rudyard Margarita
Monta's Bazil of District 4060 in the Dominican Republic where he attended a
District Conference on the RI Foundation.
" Notify Sue Klock if you are having any trouble with High Gear.
" At a special meeting of the Board it was decided to sponsor a
representative to the GSE exchange team to Argentina. He is a young man from
Middletown who works in EH at Pratt and Whitney.
Our 2 guests were Craig Williams from E. Hampton in Construction Products, and
Bob Wood's guest, Liwu Guo, one of the teacher's from China who is here for 6
months teaching Chinese to American students. The Welcome Song was ably lead by
Tom Westbrook. Larry Churchill was the Sergeant at Arms and creatively charged
each person a dollar if your candidate lost, and a dollar to celebrate if your
candidate won. Jim Sheehan paid for a birthday and Rotary anniversary. Ceil
Collins also paid for an anniversary. After a request from Spurge for no
kissing, Mary Martin, who kissed no one, won the Raffle.
Our speaker today was our own Frank Collins. His topic was to answer the oft
asked question, "What do you do at the United Nations?" He explained that he is
the Senior Representative and has 4 assistants in New York City, and other
representatives in Geneva, France, Rome, Asia and Africa. RI is one of over
2000 NGOs (non-governmental organizations) represented at the UN. RI has "consultive
status" which means we are one of the few organizations that can present "white"
or opinion papers to the agencies of the UN. One of Frank's jobs has been to
organize the Rotary International day at the United Nations, which will be this
week-end. With 1,000 registrants planning to attend the adult and young person
sessions, it sounds like an exciting week-end in New York! The main part of
Frank's job is to decide which other organizations RI will work with and on what
projects. Frank is using the priorities of International President Glen as his
guideline. The first priority, the Family of Rotary is an internal project and
does not impact the UN. The second, Literacy, is well organized and we have
representatives on the international task force. Health Concerns is the third
priority and presents Frank with some decisions. We will continue to work with
the WHO, CDC, and UNICEF on the polio eradication project. He will meet with
organizations who have specific geographical health concerns to explain that
local Rotary clubs may chose to participate in their initiatives once they have
presented the ideas to the local groups. Frank will help connect local RI
groups with the organizations. For example, RI is sponsoring a table at the
Women's Concerns Worldwide luncheon and has invited the woman Ambassador from
Thailand as their guest. He will also try to find clubs in the 22 countries
that UNICEF has targeted for pure water projects.
I hope I got it all!
Pat Porteous
Don Hallquist played show tunes as well as “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” to greet the assembled members on this beautiful autumn afternoon. Much of the pre-meeting and lunch discussion focused on the beloved Red Sox. We were served a lovely lunch of prime rib, roasted potatoes, and steamed zucchini with ice cream cake for dessert.
Announcements
Foundation Dinner Honoring Frank Collins
Sat Nov. 20 at the Windsor Marriott. Tickets are $40/person.
Reservations must be made by next week. See or call Neal Cunningham.
Carmen Piscatello is in the hospital.
East Hartford High’s Thanksgiving football game against Manchester will be played at Rentschler Field. Renting the field is expensive and they are selling program advertisements to defray the costs. Call the high school, 622-5200, if interested.
Mike Livingston concert will be held at the cultural center on Sat, Oct 30 @ 8:00. Proceeds to support “Focus on Recovery.” Call Pat Porteous for details.
Next Week’s meeting 11/3 will be at the church. Back to the Ridge on 11/10.
Nominations for Paul Harris Awards are available. Copies are also on the web site.
Mr. Larson took the floor and complained (at great length) about possible irregularities in a recent raffle. Photo evidence was provided and the attorney general’s office may be contacted.
Dan Russell sent a letter from Australia. He recently made up a meeting on a yacht in Sydney Harbor.
CPTV’s annual wine auction will be held on Oct. 31, Halloween. They are desperate for volunteers. If interested please call David Cruthers 275-7280.
Fruit Sale materials will be available next week.
20 lb. cases of oranges, grapefruit, or apples are $14.
20 lb cases of mixed oranges and grapefruit are $14.
25 lb cases of mixed oranges, grapefruit, and apples are $19.
Bill Saunders announced that the Golf Tournament raised $23,000.
Make-ups
Bob Brown, Manchester, 10/26
Sue & Peter Klock, e-Club, 10/27
Sergeant at Arms
George Agnelli took delight in collecting money from many members.
Scotty Howet, 85th birthday
George Schoen, paid in support of the beloved Red Sox
Others paid for pictures in the paper, Rotary anniversaries, coming late, leaving early
Raffle
It was with painful irony that Dan Larson, who had vociferously complained about a recent raffle drawing, won himself.
Program
Pat Porteous introduced Kim Beauregard, the directory of Inter-Community Mental Health. She gave members an overview of the program. The non-profit agency is the local mental health authority for the six towns of East Hartford, Glastonbury, Wethersfield, Newington, Rocky Hill, and Marlborough. The agency helps people with mental and behavioral health issues live in the community. They provide in-patient and out-patient services, trauma services, and crisis programs. Much of their work relates to rehabilitation programs. As a non-profit agency they must cope with financial issues in the face of ever growing state and federal mandates as well as ever more people seeking out behavioral health services. They are trying to work with people in the community to identify and address behavioral health needs with may relate to youth issues, crises, or other mental health issues.
Submitted by Glen Peterson.
Maybe it was the artistic atmosphere, but from the very beginning President Dan almost lost control of the meeting. Closely grouped tables helped simulate a cabaret environment, as months of normal seating patterns were disrupted and patrons mixed at random. The cabaret buffet offered a choice of picnic lunches—turkey, roast beef, or vegetarian sandwich; a salad, a pear, and an oversized chocolate chip cookie.
Announcements:
President Dan thanked Reggie and Herb Barall for letting Rotary use their space at “Circle of Life: Arts for All” for our meeting this week and for providing us with our luncheon program.
John Shemo, through his able messenger Todd Andrews, announced that the ways and means committee meeting scheduled for October 27 has been cancelled and will be re-scheduled. Bill Saunders leaped from his chair, wily leader that he is, and announced that the golf committee would claim that abandoned spot for its own gathering at 11:30 at South Congregational Church next week.
We will meet the next two weeks at South Congregational Church and return to the Ridge on November 10.
Our Rotary zone has nominated Michael K. McGovern from Maine for a director’s spot on RI’s board of directors for 2006-2008.
The executive board voted to: 1) donate $500 to the Rotary Vietnam Physical Rehabilitation Center in Cambodia (several weeks ago Inge Dunham from Lakeville told us about its work), 2) give $500 to the Rotary International Solar Cooker Project, 3) put an ad in the East Hartford Women’s Club annual dinner booklet.
November 6 is Rotary U.N. Day. (President Dan has registration forms; the deadline is October 23.)
The Town of East Hartford is asking for volunteers to receive emergency disaster training. The training session is scheduled for Wednesday, November 3.
Carol Krantz announced that we will be having a citrus sale again this year—Peter Klock is getting oranges and grapefruit from Texas. The fruit will be delivered the second Saturday in December.
Our speaker next week will be the new director of the Intercommunity Mental Health Group, Kim Beauregard.
The Rotary Gazebo, newly installed in the center green, will be dedicated during the annual Holiday Fest on the first Friday night in December. Jack Ghagan and Leo Christmas are presently finishing up the electrical work.
Doug Willett announced that former mayor Bob McNulty is in Hartford Hospital with congestive heart failure.
Carol Krantz pulled the winning raffle ticket for Dick McCarthy—again! Sergeant-at-Arms Bill Leone claimed he was kind to all of us today because of the closeness of the dining quarters, but he failed to fine himself for his dereliction of duty. Two honest souls volunteered their fines: Frank Collins for his new Cadillac STS (he offered everyone a ride around the block—but no further); and Larry Hangland for his 40th wedding anniversary.
Program: Our host and hostess, Herb and Reggie Barall, introduced two of the guest dancers for today’s program—Ester Cortez, a student at East Hartford High School, and her partner Michael. They both help Reggie teach dance to children on Saturday mornings. Herb admitted that Reggie really runs their studio—and him as well. And she certainly does a better job than Herb does with technology. After several false starts from the control room, Ester and Michael performed intricate Latin steps with high energy, a full body flip—and no loss of breath!
Reggie then introduced professional cabaret dance performer George Kaminski and his two charming partners, Barbara Barry and Nancy Jewett—both of whom wore competition ballroom dancing dress. Their selections included romantic bolero, tango, American style rumba, and the foxtrot. But the smoothest dancer of all was Reggie herself, resplendent in a flowing dress of various shades of lavender. She really lucked out because her normal partner Herb had faked an automobile accident and a bruised hip to keep from having to embarrass himself in front of us all. The program ended with Reggie telling us about some of the work her dancers do, such as helping high school students prepare for the Seniors Ball and their own senior ball.
Make-ups: Steve Jacoby and George Schoen at the Rotary Leadership Institute in Chicopee. Frank Collins at the U.N.; the Rotary Leadership Institute in Poughkeepsie; the U.N. representative meeting in Evanston, Illinois; as a speaker at the East Hampton, CT, Rotary Club; as a speaker at the Avon, CT, Rotary Club; at the Zone 31/32 Institute in Cambridge, MD; and as a speaker at the Springfield, MA, Rotary Club. Ceil Collins at the Rotary Leadership Annual Meeting at Poughkeepsie; at the East Hampton, CT, Rotary Club; at the Zone 31/32 Institute in Cambridge, MD; and at the Springfield, MA, Rotary Club.
Respectfully submitted, Bill Secord
Our Rotary Bell, having spent a peaceful week at church, rang out once again for our gathering at South Congregational. George Stewart led us in thanks and asked for blessings upon our Boy Scout guest speaker and those Scouts who do good in this world and grow up to become contributing members of Rotary. The buffet, one slow table at a time, consisted of stuffed chicken (Cornish game hen, perhaps), ziti with huge meatballs, pasta salad, green salad, rolls and butter, and fruit-filled jello.
Make-up: John Shemo at South Windsor, CT.
Art Bradbury welcomed our speaker Will Sime and his father Jim. High-kicking Dick LeMieux led the Welcome Song to the tune of what at first sounded suspiciously like the Marseillaise, but what must have been just the faulty fingers of Don Hallquist. Sergeant-at-arms Bill Leone complained about the lack of birthdays, but reaped plentifully in anniversary fines: Bill Flynn, 26 years; Larry Frazier, 37 years; Jim Reik, 12 years; John Shemo, 11 years (second time around); and Glenn Peterson, 1 year (after serving a number of Rotary years in Connecticut’s Northeast Kingdom). Dan Larson paid a fine for something, but Lord knows what—it could have been anything. Mary Martin paid for her spouse’s having walked around on television wearing a Viking helmet and telling people to stay out of their gutters. Carmen Piscatello—with a warm round of applause for his healthy return!—blundered badly and allowed Bill Leone to pull his own number for the raffle. (Bill returned the money to the Sergeant-at-arms fund, secretly he thought—but no good deed goes unrecorded!)
Announcements:
Program:
Will Sime, assisted by master projectionist Jim Sime, recounted his adventures in restoring and enhancing the garden, landscaping, and picnicking facilities in the courtyard of the East Hartford Middle School. Will took on this project as part of his Eagle Scout requirements. The East Hartford Rotary, the East Hartford Women’s Club, the middle school PTO, and Discount Trophy were among the groups and businesses that provided Will with the funds and materials he needed for the project. A total of $620 dollars were donated along with plants and lumber, some of which was sturdy South American walnut. Much of the landscaping work had to be done during Will’s April vacation. The building of picnic tables took place in the Sime’s basement and garage. The garden now includes displays of the official state flowers of each of the New England states—including the endangered trailing arbutus of Massachusetts and mountain laurel of Connecticut (which is also on the endangered list—who smuggled in that beautiful laurel plant?) This project—with all its labor—has added significantly to the atmosphere and educational environment at the middle school.
Respectfully submitted, Bill Secord
Maestro Don Hallquist, wearing a snobbish golfing polo, bounced show tunes off the walls of South Congregational Church’s multi-purpose room, as we once more enjoyed their hospitality. The peripatetic bell brought us all to our feet for song and prayer and the Rotary Four-way Test. The substitute kitchen produced perfectly prepared al dente ziti with a tangy tomato sauce laced with sausage, a garden salad, and a variety of crunchy cookies. A cheery Glen Peterson led the Welcome Song for our only guest (and his boss), Superintendent of Schools Marion Martinez.
A cloud of doom, however, appeared over our flock with the realization that George Agnelli had assumed the mantle of Sergeant-at-Arts from Darlene Roberts. But only one major confrontation occurred—when Doug Willett insisted upon his rights to Freedom of the Press as last month’s High Gear editor. The two cousins reached a compromise when our own “W” agreed to pay a fine for vulgarity—but not for defamation of the clergy. Other fines included: Dean Rolland paid 60 happy dollars for 60 happy years of married life; Mo Belanger paid for his 73rd birthday and for no singing by the club; John Mozzicato paid for Jack Gagnon’s 55th wedding anniversary and trumped Mo by paying for the club to sing to him anyway; Jack Gagnon paid a happy dollar for Carmen Piscatello’s coming home from the hospital; Don Hallquist paid for a birthday in September and for no singing (he gets tired getting up and down every week); Pat Porteous paid for her birthday and for a beautifully off-key version of Happy Birthday; Dick McCarthy paid $10 for a new car he claims he bought for his wife; Gerry Brady paid for using his cell phone during our solemn ceremonies; and Bill Flynn paid for the wonderful party at Neil and Rosemary Cunningham’s home last weekend.
Make-ups: Dan Russell at Rockville, Andy Andreo at Westerly and Las Vegas, Skip Guillemette at Manchester.
Announcements:
Program:
Herb Barall introduced our speaker for the day, Superintendent of Schools Marion Martinez. She spoke about the strategic planning process the school system has gone through over the past six months. The process included a “bottom-up” approach to developing a plan and included members of the public in the planning process so that the results would be supported the whole East Hartford community. Part of the planning committee’s discussion included the role of moral leadership and the importance of stewardship. Other initiatives that Dr. Martinez is proud of include the implementation of full-day kindergarten for all and the hiring of a literacy coordinator for grades K-8. The rumor is that “fly tying” is being proposed as a course next year for eighth grade boys to keep them occupied. Dr. Martinez concluded her talk with her statement of belief that the scores of East Hartford students on such tests as the CMTs can be raised—by as much as the double digit figures she observed during her tenure as assistant superintendent in Clinton.
The meeting ended with the unconscionable badgering of the gracious superintendent by such erstwhile gentlemen as George Stewart, Art Bradbury, Bill Flynn, George Agnelli, and others.
Respectfully submitted, Bill Secord
High Gear – September 29, 2004
Our Rotary Meeting day started off overcast with remnants of Hurricane Jeanne passing through. Not bad but enough to put a damper on the post meeting golf game. The crowd was slow to gather as noted by the tune “It’s A Small World After All” wafting through the hall. Our piano player remains oh so clever and creative – he is aging well! President Dan expressed his thanks for surviving his recent shoulder operation. Tom Westbrook led a spirited Welcome Song for our two guests, Reid Fraser, New Alliance Bank, and Muhammad Ansari, from the Open Hearth.
Darlene Roberts completed her first turn as Sergeant At Arms today. She has shown a lot of promise in this role and with a little more coaching from Carmen, she should take her place alongside such notable “pain in the butts” SAA’s as Dr. Tom, Dan Larson, and Bill Flynn. Peter Klock had it all going on today, getting to celebrate his birthday while his wife, the long suffering Susan, paid the fine. Hey, you got to use that M.I.T. PhD once in a while.
Several announcements today. President Dan reminded one and all about Rotary Day at the Big East this Sunday and tried to read Thank You notes from the American Lung Association and the Intercommunity Mental Health Group for recent Rotary donations. He also made note of the East Hartford School Business Partnership newsletter which featured E.H. Rotary prominently in its recent issue.
Neal Cunningham is still looking for a few more volunteers for the October 9th Water Station at the Greater Hartford Marathon. He also announced that the First District Democrats will be honoring Moe Belanger for his community service at its October 17th annual dinner. See Neal for tickets.
Sue Klock reminded everyone about Rotary Day at the United Nations on November 6th. See EHRotary.org for registration forms. There will be a Membership Committee Meeting on October 5th at 7:30 a.m. at the East Hartford Golf Course Restaurant.
Our program today was on the Open Hearth, a shelter and substance abuse program operating on Sheldon Street in Hartford since 1884. Adult men are able to come here for a structured program designed to allow them to reenter the community as productive, successful citizens. The program stresses old fashioned values of hard work and personal responsibility. The Open Hearth has 25 employees and serves up to 75 men in the program with another 25 beds available for overnight shelter. It has a $1.7 million dollar budget and relies on state, federal and private grants and donations. It has many success stories and even sponsors an alumni association. It is perhaps best known for its sale of fire wood to local homeowners. Thanks, Jackie, for another interesting and worthwhile program. Next week we’ll hear from the Superintendent of Schools.
Which brings this scribe to the end of my tenure as High Gear editor. So let me indulge in a few personal notes. One, I am looking for a garage to park a car for the months of November – March. Anyone aware of the availability of same, please contact me. Second, my wife tells me I’ve been picking on Ruthie for years for her blind devotion to the hapless Red Sox, so I want to apologize. But I have to ask one thing before I do – hey, Ruthie, who’s your daddies? Finally, my thanks for being part of the East Hartford Rotary family. There is no greater bunch of people, even if some of you are Republicans. Go, Huskies, SH-TT on PITT! WDOUGW
High Gear for September 22, 2004
South Congregational Church, our home away from home for
the next few weeks, was the location today for our annual District Governor's
Visit. The gathering was on the small side and somewhat quiet and decorous, due
no doubt to the lack of piano, badges, and bell. Or, perhaps, the setting in a
church hall; the presence of the Governor; or even a hangover from the Monday
Golf Tournament contributed to the quietude. Dan Larson, performing very much
against type, delivered a thoughtful and sober grace before our meal.
Our guests, in addition to the Governor, were ADG Dick Borden from Manchester,
and, appropriately attired in sackcloth and ashes after her beloved Bosox's
disastrous weekend in the Bronx, Ruthie Sheehan. Sergeant At Arms Darlene
Roberts noted fines for Dan Russell and Dean Roland, both celebrating 31 years
in Rotary. Todd Andrews paid for a 14th wedding anniversary and George Schoen
paid for a birthday. Lack of pins, coats, and couth made up the balance of
today's take.
President Dan reminded the Club of Rotary Day at the Big E on October 3. He has
discount tickets available. The Empress thanked her volunteers for representing
the Club on Rebuild Together Day, last Saturday, held in monsoon rains. The
Rotary Good Guys included Dave Amberg, Dan Dienst, Jack Ghagan, Peter Klock, Sue
Klock, Marcia Leclerc, Mary Martin, Glen Peterson, Darlene Roberts, George
Schoen, and Gil Wishart. Neal Cunningham is still looking for a few more
volunteers for the Greater Hartford Marathon Water Station on October 9th.
Bill Saunders, looking ten years younger now that the pressure is off, reported
on our very successful fund-raiser on Monday. After much pleading, begging, and
drawing of blood, the Club came through to the tune of 136 golfers, 90-100
sponsors, over $7700 in raffle prizes, and $850 in silent auction donations. A
precise accounting is pending late returns. Great job, Bill and the Golf
Committee. President Dan is postponing plans for the raffle.
District Governor Dick Seidman is no stranger to our group and his presentation
this day was relaxed and avuncular. He praised East Hartford both for its
contributions to the leadership of the District and our ability to do good work
and have fun at the same time. He summarized the overall purpose of Club
Administration as "keeping members, getting new members, raising monies for the
Rotary Foundation and local projects, doing the good work of Rotary, and having
fun." He noted that East Hartford excels in all of these.
He also noted some important up coming dates: October 3, Rotary Day at Big E;
November 6th, Rotary Day at the United Nations; November 20th, Rotary Foundation
Dinner, honoring Frank & Ceil Collins, at the Windsor Marriott; February 5th,
Rotary Centennial Celebration at the Bond Hotel Ballroom; May 6-8, District
Convention in Providence; June 18-21, Rotary International Convention in
Chicago.
He closed by noting PDG Jeff Tager's proposal that each Club consider donating
10 books per Rotarian to local children, and that the Club consider his own
request that we donate 5% of our fund raising efforts to the Rotary Foundation.
This would go a long way to meeting our Club Foundation goal and provide the
District with significant Foundation funds for local projects when 50% of our
District's donation is returned to us in three years. Whew. Fifty four visits
down, seven to go.
Our program next week is the work of the Open Hearth. See you at South Cong. Go
Huskies. WDOUGW
High Gear for September 15, 2004
Signs of Fall are visible in the drive up from Niantic today. The first trees are starting to turn in the Deep River and East Haddam areas and leaves are sprinkled on the ground at roadside. While overcast this morning, there is a crispness to the air that heralds colder days ahead.
Nothing cold inside the Ridge, however, as we gather for our weekly repast. Our meeting today is out of the ordinary in that we rush though our normal program and start our speaker’s presentation a half hour early at twelve-thirty. This adjustment proves difficult for some as our more normal dinner chatter clashes with the introduction of guests, sergeant at arms report and announcements. The result is the kind of cacophony that reminds one of the Red Sox dugout when Francona is issuing instructions.
Sharing our open faced bacon and turkey sandwich were guests Kate Evans and John Mitchell from South Windsor, Art Hayes from Glastonbury, Anson Mooney from Hartford and ADG Dick Borden from Manchester. Major fines paid were from Herb Barall for 52 years of wedded bliss (well done, Reggie), and Bryan Hall, for moving into town and a Channel 3 TV appearance.
President Dan reminded one and all that we will be meeting at South Church for the next several weeks and that the District Governor will be making his official visit next week. Ties and jackets are mandatory. Sunday, October 3rd is Rotary Day at the Big E and a good crowd is encouraged. Bring the kids and the grandkids and see Dan for special priced tickets.
The program today was outstanding. Dr. William McAllister, who spoke to us last spring, returned to present a fascinating look at the work of his Forward Surgical Unit in support of our Special Services forces in the early days of the Afghanistan war. The bravery, sacrifices and dedication of these soldiers was inspiring, as they moved well beyond their mission to bring a little light and joy to an impoverished people. Jackie Danise assures me that this presentation is the new standard of what we can expect from future programs. We’ll see what the Governor brings to the table next week.
The Golf Tournament is Monday at Manchester Country Club. Thanks to all who have contributed to date. Let’s pray for fair weather. It’s a big sports weekend coming up – Ryder Cup, Huskies at B.C., Red Sox at the House that Ruth(ie) Built. The leaves are turning. It must be September. Go, Huskies. WDOUGW
High Gear for September 8, 2004
Better to live in New England than Florida, at least in hurricane season. That thought crossed minds today as the weak remnants of hurricane Frances moved across our area amid warnings of yet another hurricane bearing down on the Sunshine State’s west coast.
The Ridge exhibited its typical pre-meeting bustle today as the Golf Committee conducted its session with the days dwindling down in the side room; our speaker setting up a slide presentation in the main hall, and the club wise men holding court in the entrance foyer.
Our only guest today was our speaker, Inga Dunham, P.P. and P.H. of the Salisbury Club and the Chair of the District International Service Committee. After a spirited welcome song lead by the startlingly animated Bill Secord (with help from Don and Glen Peterson), Inga joined us in a lunch of pot roast, potatoes, and broccoli topped with a jello dessert.
Sergeant At Arms Darlene Roberts, entirely too comfortable in shaking people down, levied fines on Mary Martin for her birthday, Doug Willett for his first grandson, and at least one fine at every table for lack of pins, jackets, socks, couth, late arrivals and early leavers.
Today’s announcements were few. Reminder that we move to South Church beginning September 22; District Governor visit on September 22, so jackets and ties are expected on the men of the Club – the women of the Club are expected to look decent; Thank you’s from students we sponsored for RYLA leadership seminar and the Whitewater Conference; Bill Flynn reports that Dr. Tom in hanging in there with his chemo but would enjoy cards and/or contacts.
Lots of makeup’s turned in today – Loren Andreo (5), Steve Jacoby (2), Don Cramer, Lionel Lessard, Art Bradbury, George Schoen, Frank Collins.
Inga’s presentation was on the Cambodia Project and the District’s goal of raising $50,000 to assist the land mine victims in this war ravaged nation. Her slides and comments clearly demonstrated the haunting need for artificial limbs, wheel chairs, braces and other aids so these victims can lead productive lives. Rotary International is making its presence felt but there is more to do. The Board will be considering our involvement soon.
Next week the program will be on Afghanistan, presented by Dr. William McAllister. This program requires an hour for the full presentation, so plan to be here on time and for the program to begin at 12:30 p.m. Dr. Bill spoke to us last year about joint replacement surgery and was very well received. Don’t miss this one.
That’s it. See you next week. 1918, Ruthie, 19..freakin..18! Go, Huskies, WDOUGW
High Gear for September 1, 2004
A bright, sunny day ushered in the glorious month of September. Ridge visitors were treated to a good crowd, a good meal, and a nice day. The visitors consisted of the sons of Dan Dienst, Dan junior and stepson, Nathan Warkintin. The room was abuzz with the heady giggles of Sox fans, who have shaken off the despair of June and July, and are now reveling in yet another late season false spring. This leaves these perennial naifs exquisitely poised for yet another September disappointment. “As flies to wanton boys, are Red Sox fans to the baseball gods.” Shakespeare, at his most insightful.
Chicken Cacciatore and ice cream topped the menu today and fortified the group for President Dan’s egregious introduction of our newly minted Sergeant at Arms Darlene Roberts as “Hyacinth Douglas-Bailey.” Darlene took it in stride as she commandeered the microphone to announce a string of miscreants, to wit: Jack Sayre and Stu Harris for appearances in local papers; Dan Larson for shockingly invading Sue Klock’s personal space; John Mozzicato, Jackie Danise, and Frank Collins for anniversaries; Todd Andrews for two tots entering kindergarten this very day; the Yankee fans for being Yankee fans; and a few late comers for being late comers. Carol Krantz asked us to say a prayer for her Army Captain daughter who is in route to Iraq where she will spend 18 months as a quartermaster.
President Dan gave notice that next week marks the resumption of a more formal dress code – “no visible shorts, wear socks.” He also noted that the Ridge will be closed from September 22 to November 3rd and we will be meeting at South Church during this period (except for October 20 when we will be at the Cultural Center for dancing lessons.) Peter Klock, with the number for Trantolo and Trantolo dangling from his shirt pocket, once again offered Rotarians the chance to purchase single game seat back tickets to Uconn football at the Rent - $35 per ticket but talk with him soon. Our Czaress of Volunteers, Mary Martin, thanked the Club for providing 13 volunteers for the September 18 Rebuilding Together Day and acknowledged Generis Catering’s generous donation of 200 box lunches for this event.
Okay, Rotary gut-check time. With only two weeks left, we are far behind our goals for the Golf Tournament. We only have 47 golfers and 44 sponsors to date. We are far behind our target for raffle prizes. Historically 25 – 30 of our club members contribute nada, zip, nothing to this event. That is somewhere between 30% - 40% of the Club. Unacceptable. There is no good excuse for any East Hartford Rotarian to fail to contribute in some way. If you don’t golf, get a hole sponsor, join with a fellow member and contribute a raffle prize (doesn’t have to be golf related), volunteer to help around the course that day – do something just so we know you believe in the work of this Club and you appreciate the efforts being put in by Bill Saunders and his committee. There is nothing in the Rotary spirit that allows one to sit back and let others do all the work. The Golf Committee doesn’t deserve that. Prove that Rotary means something to you… now.
Next week’s program features Inga Dunham talking about the Cambodia Project, a major focus for District 7890 International service this year. See you then. Go, Huskies, WDOUGW
The August 25, 2004 meeting was treated to a special musical medley from Don Hallquist. His talents have been greatly missed and are greatly appreciated! The meeting began with the usual pledge and prayer lead by Rev. Bill Flynn. It’s the third time we’ve recited the 4-way test – well on the way to memorizing it. From the looks of the plates I could see, the pork lunch was very good.
Correction: Jackie Danise was on the winning golf team, not Dan Dienst as reported.
Bride’s name is Rosemary
Make Ups: Community Service Committee: Sheehan, Porteus, Amberg and Martin
Frank Collins: Zone Meeting, Leadership Institute, United Nations, District Golf Outing, helped hurricane victims in Sarasota, FL.
Ceil Collins: District Golf Outing, helped hurricane victims in Sarasota, FL
Roy Spiller (Niantic), Larry Hangland (Wethersfield), Lionel Lessard (Rockville twice)
Jim Shay led the welcome song as we welcomed Steve Bates, Jr. and Roger Nicholson.
Dick McCarthy reported Dan Larson has a new grandson; Rev. Roger was pleased to have lunch with the best Rotary Club. Larson made a donation for the Olympic-quality dive that Don Hallquist made at the picnic. Dean Roland had his photo in the paper.
Mary Martin asked for volunteers to pick up donated food items and deliver them to the worksites for the East Hartford Rebuild Together Day on Saturday, September 18, 2004. If you are interested in helping with the home repair projects, visit RTHartford.org.
Bill Saunders reported that we have 40 sponsors (goal is 100). We have 35 paid players (goal is 130). Tournament will be held on Monday, September 20 at Manchester Country Club. A letter has been sent to all chamber members and information went into the East Hartford Gazette. Please ask friends and associates to be sponsors.
Next committee meetings: September 1, 8, and 15 at 11:30 a.m. at the Ridge.
President Dan reported that the board approved donations to the following charities:
BSA Christopher Basler Eagle Project, Inter-Community Mental Health and the American Lung Association of Connecticut.
The Club received a thank you note from the Town of East Hartford for the donation of school supplies for needy students. Don’t forget the suggested $100 donation to RI.
Former officers and committee chairs, please help with the “responsibility book.
Neal Cunningham thanked everyone for the wedding celebration, especially Ted Mosebach, Dan Larson and Dan and Loretta Dienst.
Bob Richmond reported that the social committee set December 8 for the Holiday Party at Adam’s Mill. Mark your calendar. Menu suggestions are welcome.
Peter Klock reported that chair back seats may be sold for UConn football games. If you are interested, see him.
Next week an envelope will be circulated to raise funds for the Florida hurricane victims.
Dan Firestone’s new phone number 521-6835.
The raffle was won by Peter Klock.
The meeting was adjourned with America the Beautiful
.
Margaret LaCroix
Dearly beloved, we gathered at the Dienst’s house on August
18, 2004 for the annual golf outing and to celebrate the recent marriage of
Neal Cunningham and Rosemary Hogan .
The business meeting began promptly at 6:00 p.m. The welcome song welcomed all the significant others, followed by the poolside invocation by Reverend Ted Mosebach. Bob Brown announced the following winners of the golf tournament.
Third Place: Bob Brown, Tom Westbrook, Nick Cecere and Moe Moshovos
Second Place: Larry Churchill, Roy Spiller, Jack Sayre and Dave Amberg
First Place: Ted Mosebach, Bill Saunders, George Stewart and Dan Dienst
Clad in formal attire (golf shirt and tie) Dan Larson performed a roast/toast of the newlyweds that seemed interminable. It was indeed hilarious but this scribe cannot capture and do justice to the humor in this format. You just had to be there!
Special thanks to Bob Brown and Bill Leone and their committees for great golf and a delicious meal. It was food, folks and fun at Rotary’s best.
Also, special thanks to Dienst’s for the use of their beautiful backyard, which was appropriately festooned with wedding decorations.
The finale of the evening was the cutting of the cake by the bride and groom. Needless to say, a good time was had by all.
Margaret LaCroix
The August 11, 2004 meeting was called to order by President Dan Firestone. The accompanying music was again greatly missed as we sang the opening song. We reaffirmed our commitment to the Rotary mission by reciting the four-way test. The prayer was lead by Rev. Bill Flynn. The “comfort food” luncheon was great for the gray day. For some reason, the usually spirited group started out noticeably more quiet than usual, but as the bell rang for the start of the business meeting, the noise level had reached its usual pitch.
Make Ups: Herb Tischofer (eClub), Steve Jacoby (Glastonbury and Manchester)
Guests: Steve Bates, Jr., Dan Dienst’s granddaughter Samantha and Bing Liu.
Art Bradbury led the welcome song. It was again a slow start but ended on an enthusiastic note.
Richard McCarthy reported Ceil Collins, Gil Wishart and Herb Barall had birthdays. Mary Martin made a generous donation for 16 years in Rotary and Bob Richmond got a new car. The raffle was won by Jim Fallon.
President Dan reported that Spurgeon Stokes’ brother died. The new year’s committee assignment list is now available. He urged everyone to make a $100 donation.
Golf Tournament Update:
Chairman Bill Saunders reported that sponsors, players and prizes are still needed. To date, we have 26 sponsors: (goal is 100) and 26 players (goal is 130).
The next meeting of the golf tournament committee is August 25, 2004 at 11:30 a.m.
Golf at Twin Hills and festivities begin at 5:00 p.m. at the Dienst’s on August 18, 2004. No noon meeting. Please bring the following: A-G (side dish), H-R (dessert) and S-W (hors d’oeuvres). Sign ups for golf through Bob Brown.
There is a need to house a student from China from September through January. Meals and transportation should be provided. For further information, contact Bill Secord.
President’s Dan goals are to create a manual for officers and committee chairs to provide information and continuity. He also wants to build club membership. He appointed Larry Frazier to chair the Membership Committee. Frazier reminded members that it is our responsibility as members to share Rotary. New members and retention will be the focus and the responsibility of all members.
Mary Martin reported that the Community Service Committee raised more than $500 for school supplies for needy children. Rotary has been asked to host hospitality for the volunteers for the Rebuild Together building project in September. The club has also been asked to manage the BBQ tent for the Podunk Bluegrass Festival.
It was suggested that new nametags be purchased since some classifications no longer exist. The consensus was not to purchase nametags.
Many clubs have “Happy Dollars.” After a discussion, it was decided that the board would make a decision. Some suggested that our club is already happy enough.
President Dan called for other items to be discussed. Hearing none, the meeting was adjourned following a verse of My Country ‘Tis of Thee.
Margaret LaCroix
The August 4, 2004 meeting was called to order by President Dan Firestone. The opening song was sans accompaniment, which was sorely missed. The prayer was lead by Rev. Bill Flynn.
Make Ups: Roy Spiller (Niantic), Bob Wood (Brighton, ME). Loren Andreo (Westerly, RI), Gerry Brady (West Hartford)
We enjoyed a light luncheon chef salad in light of the heat and humidity of this sunny August day.
Golf Outing Information
Golf at Twin Hills and dinner at the Dienst’s on August 18, 2004. No noon meeting.
Please bring the following: A-G (side dish); H-R (dessert) and S-W (hors d’oeuvres).
Sign ups for golf through Bob Brown and dinner through Bill Leone.
If there are items for discussion at the club assembly, please notify President Dan.
Golf Tournament Update:
The golf tournament will be held on September 20 at Manchester Country Club.
To date:
19 sponsors Goal 100
22 players Goal 120
26 raffle prizes Goal 70
Next committee meetings: August 11 at 11:30 a.m. and August 25 at 11:30 a.m.
Bill Saunders asked for participation from everyone.
Guest snowbird turned bird Fred Campbell was acknowledged in song enthusiastically lead by Tom Westbrook.
The golf committee paid for having their photo in the newspaper. Bill Saunders paid for a birthday. George Agnelli paid for the dirtiest garage on the Ridge.
Past presidents please provide President Dan with historical information.
If you know of anyone who would like to apply for the Group Study Exchange in Argentina, please contact President Dan.
Condolences to Carol Krantz and family on the loss of her son-in-law.
Thank you note for Rotary Scholarship was read from Jessica Balesano.
FYI: Spike Spiegel’s widow passed away.
The raffle was won by Steve Tamiso.
The meeting closed with God Bless America.
High Gear Editor: Margaret LaCroix
Here team captain, Neal, and some of the team.
Biggest problem -- finding that elusive ninth player!
Well, actually, a bigger problem -- we lost the game.
East Hartford at Glastonbury and the annual event is upon us! A time for inter-club socializing, a few pops, a great beef dinner, and THE GAME. With President Dan to lead us forty-two Rotarians from up river gathered to take on the team from Station 35. All was ready, the battery, mighty Willett on the mound and sure-hand Cunningham behind the plate what could go wrong? Surely the duties of nuptials the week before would not sway sure-hand. Surely an extra few pounds around the middle would only add weight to Mighty Willett. Remember all those yester-years when the slap of the ball into the leather and the crack of the bat pulled us from our seats with fists raised high and with shouts of joy from our throats. Yes remember, for this year it was not to be. Where O where were our boys of summer, what has become of them? Where was Dano with the Larson boys, where Shemo of legend, where Barall the-dancer, where Cecere, and Guillemette, and the rest? Shay the-law at first, could not the Glastonbury tide arrest. Where O where were the boys of summer? Gone, gone all are gone. Fading shadows, boys no longer, now slow old men.
On a happier note the golf and outing is coming along fine. Dan Dienst has been allowed back into the house and Loretta has planned a theme for the outing. Dan has some helpers but would like to have a few more. If you can give him a hand he could lay back and enjoy the day. Give Dan a call at 569-2077. Bob Brown has about twenty-two signed up for the golf scramble and needs a few more. Call Bob at 646-2443 and sign up.
We had only one make-up this past week, Leroy Spiller at Niantic.
The ball game (?) score was reported by Kathy McCabe to be 18-10. Dick Lemieux said that THEY had 18 in the first inning. John McNaughton thought it was more like 28-10. Anyway there is always last year.
This is my last High Gear for the year. I have a suggestion or two.
If you have a message to deliver at a meeting use the microphone.
If you want something in High Gear write it out and hand it to the High Gear editor.
If you are introducing the guest speaker or a special guest give the editor the guests’ vitals in written form.
LRF
President Dan rang the meeting to order promptly at twelve fifteen and had us mumble through the four-way test because that’s the way Manchester does it. The Rev Flynn invoked the blessing. Is it just coincidence that we keep having fine golf weather or does the Rev have the Load’s ear? A lunch of lamb kebab was served with chocolate cake for dessert. Our guests today included one of our scholarship recipients Erica Woods and her mother. Erica will attend American International College. Dave Amberg presented her to the club.
George Schoen was sgt-at-arms and once again gathered in the sheaves. The shearing as follows; Bill Saunders $5 because Jim Sheehan has not smoked for two weeks, Don Cramer $25 for a new Cadillac, Dan Dienst $10 8 years and a birthday, Art Bradbury $5 36 years, John Shemo $10 birthday, bill Leone $10 birthday, Dee Blackwood $10 for granddaughter eleven year old Nicole Anderson a recipient of the President’s award, and Neal Cunningham $20 for getting married. That’s a dollar a year for the twenty years it took him to pop the question.
Make-ups this week were Dick McCarthy and Bob Wood at Bridgeton Lake Region, Maine and Roy Spiller and Lionel Lessard at Rockville.
Notices: Monday the 26th our meeting will be at Glastonbury for our annual visit. There will be no meeting at the Ridge on the 28th. Mary Martin will collect on behalf of the East Hartford Social Service Department donations of new school supplies and toiletries to assist local students in starting the new school year. Cash or checks may also be donated. Make checks out to “The Town Of East Hartford” More information can be had through the Social Services Office at 291-7294. All donations are needed by August 6th. The next golf committee meeting will be August 4th at 11:30.
The August 1st trip to Saratoga will leave from the Ridge at 8:30 AM. Neal the –bridegroom is looking for water station volunteers for October 9th. There will be a club assembly on August 11th. The annual golf and outing will be held August 18th. The golf will be a 10:30 AM scramble at Twin Hills in Coventry. The outing will be held at the Deinst’s hostel at 4:30 PM. Dan got Loretta’s permission for the outing at their place while she was just waking after rotor cuff surgery so Dan needs a place to bunk in.
Scotty won the raffle with ticket 615. It would have been nice if Neal had won it sort as a wedding present from the club. O well lucky in love unlucky with money. Tom the- tooth is looking for a doctor who will trade services. Tom has some dentures that were returned almost unused. We hope to see you soon Tom back at the ridge.
President Dan rang the meeting closed at 1 PM.
LRF
Old business first, my apology to Bill Saunders for my erroneous statement in last week’s High Gear. Bill was not chairman of the scholarship committee last rotary year; he was not on the committee and had no hand in candidate selections.
President Dan rang the meeting to order promptly at twelve fifteen. A lunch of bar-b-q chicken, corn-on-the-cob and potato salad was served. The desert was a chocolate mouse. Dick Borden from Manchester and Art Hayes from Belfast Maine were our guests today. Bob Brown lead the welcome song with Don our man at the ivories Hallquist as accompanist.
George Schoen was sgt-at-arms and made a fine haul. Jackie Denise fined for 14th anniversary and Roger Nicholson for 47 years with a donation of $500.00. Roger we are going to miss you. John, the Yankee a dollar and George Schoen the loyal Red Sox fan for the two home runs hit by the bean town boys in the all star game. The raffle man, Don Carmen induced Bill Flynn to select the winning ticket held by Dan the mouth Larson.
George Agnelli has found the missing Rotary Foundation Candy Dish. It turns out that he had it all the time. This only happened because Eleanor does not like poetry. Anyone who can work this one out is a true Rotarian.
Make-ups this week were Frank and Ceil Collins, George Stewart and Jim Sheehan at Stonington, Ct., and Lionel Lessard Jr. at Rockville.
Notices: Monday the 26th our meeting will be at Glastonbury for our annual visit. There will be no meeting at the Ridge on the 28th. The past presidents will meet at Stewart’s cottage on the 18th. Mary Martin will collect on behalf of the East Hartford Social Service Department donations of new school supplies and toiletries to assist local students in starting the new school year. Cash or checks may also be donated. Make checks out to “The Town Of East Hartford” More information can be had through the Social Services Office at 291-7294. All donations are needed by August 6th. The next golf committee meeting will be August 4th at 11:30.
A report from the golf committee shows we have 13 sponsors (goal is 100), 16 raffle items (goal is 70), and 21 players (goal is 130). Please make every attempt to secure at least one sponsor and bring in a donation for the raffle.
Dave Amberg is continuing his battle with Lyme disease and Tom; the tooth is on the road to recovery. He even shows up at the side chair for a short time. Keep it up guys we are all pulling for you.
President Dan rang the meeting closed at 1 PM.
LRF
Promptly at 12:15 our new President Dan rang the bell and his year was off and
running. Running lonely though, there was no one to sit at his side. As you said
P. Dan, it is lonely at the top and best you know that early. You will have
followers, so lead on. Hail to the flag followed by Rev. Ted asking God's
blessing and again finding the right words for the day.
A lunch of roast beef, roasted potatoes and string beans followed by
strawberries and ice cream and good rotary fellowship set the tone for the
meeting.
Glen Peterson introduced his daughter Victoria, and Bob Wood introduced two of
our scholarship recipients, Loren Carpenter and David Liner. Loren graduated
from East Catholic and will attend Smith College and major in English. David
graduated from East Hartford High and will attend U-Conn and major in Actuarial
Science. Loren has been involved in River Recapture's crew and a school music
program. David played soccer and worked as grounds keeper at our golf course.
All the while these young people have maintained high scholastic averages in
school. David was the recipient of the Jack Davis Memorial Scholarship. This is
given by Helen Davis in memory of Jack who was a East Hartford Rotarian elected
to Rotary in 1980. David is the grandson of Bev & Bill Saunders.
Our Welcome Song was lead today by Todd Andrews, not bad, not good, but ok.
Make-ups: Frank and Ceil Collins at Great Neck, NY, Hartford, and Mystic; Steve
Jacoby at Chicopee and Ware; Jim Watts twice at East Windsor; Leroy Spiller at
Rockville; and Dan Russell at Rockville.
Notices: PP Neal reminds the PP's of the PP picnic on 7/18/04 at George
Stewart's.
The action will start a 2 PM. A-M are to bring deserts and O-Z are to bring
O'D's.
Please call PP Neal at home 623-0144,or work 860 582-8660.
Bill Saunders will hold a golf committee meeting next Wednesday at 11:30 at the
ridge.
Mary Martin will collect on behalf of the East Hartford Social Service
Department donations of new school supplies and toiletries to assist local
students in starting the new school year. Cash or checks may also be donated.
Make checks out to "The Town Of East Hartford" More information can be had
through the Social Services Office at 291-7294. All donations are needed by
August 6th.
On the sick list, Tom-the-tooth is coming back into form and Dave Amberg has
contracted Lyme disease. He is on meds and no golf.
LRF
HIGH GEAR for June 30, 2004
"The time has come, the walrus said…" Tonight the time came for transitions,
our annual handing over of the medallion and bell from one club leader to
another. And a great night it was, full of good food, good friends, and "good,
good, good vibrations."
Event Chair Mary Martin reported outstanding attendance of one hundred ten
people, including incoming President Dan's daughter, Michele, and her husband,
Larry, who came all the way from Boca Raton, Florida to attend this special
evening - (or was it to escape the heat wave in South Florida?)
Outgoing President Neal (is "outgoing" the right word for this man's
personality?) started the evening off with a crisp ring of the bell and a smart
handoff to the soon to be Pittsburgh kid, Roger Nicholson, for his usual
thoughtful invocation. The welcome song was enthusiastically lead by Art and Tom
with Don on the keyboard. Sergeant at Arms Jack Ghagan, who never takes a night
off had sparse pickin's, able to extort money only from Dave & Chickie Amberg
celebrating their 42nd anniversary, Art & Charlotte Bradbury who check in with
57 years of wedded bliss, and from a couple of hackers who got lucky in Doug
Willett and Bob Brown (a hole-in-one and an eagle, respectively).
Bill Leone took the mike to relay some good news about brother Tom Galvin, who
is home from the medical wards, trying to figure out how to eat with half his
stomach missing, and still very much in command of his sense of humor - Tom
"complained" he had so many cards and letters from the Rotary family, he had to
spend an extra day in the hospital to read them all! You are missed, Tom,
especially now that you have become a cheap date.
President Neal took a moment to announce that the Board of Directors has named
Roger Nicholson an Honorary Member of the Club, insuring that though he and Anne
are relocating to distant climes, he will continue to extend his record as our
member with the longest tenure in the Club, dating back to 1957. Speaking of
being missed.
At this point, President Neal took a moment to recognize the key leaders of the
Club in the past year, briefly noted the long list of Club accomplishments this
year and sketched out the $45,000 in donations and good works completed in his
administration. With that and accompanied by a rousing round of applause for a
most successful tenure, he handed over the medallion and bell to President Dan,
accepted the traditional plaques and Club gift (a digital camera in this case)
and faded into the immediate obscurity of an Rotary Past President.
Out with the old, in with the new. President Dan began by introducing his family
and the incoming Board of Directors and took a few minutes to outline his plans
for the year. The 2004-2005 Rotary International Theme is Celebrate Rotary with
special emphasis on Health concerns, Water management, Literacy and the Family
of Rotary. Dan plans to concentrate on "growing the Club" - (starting with the
cheesecake served for dessert this evening) - and compiling a manual for use of
future officers and committee chairman. He ended his first session at the helm
with an insightful alpha-numeric anecdote about the folly of trying to exceed
100% effort. A good start on his yearlong journey. He'll do just fine, once he
can shake hands with his right arm, like an honest man.
Announcement: Past President's Picnic will be held Sunday, July 18th at the
Stewart's lakeside clubhouse. Details to follow.
And so we headed out in night, wending our way back to the shore, listening to
Ruthie's beloved Sox once again self-destruct in the heat of a New York night
…all is right with the world. See ya in September. WDOUGW
A bright, beautiful day for the first meeting of Summer
2004 and the penultimate session in President Neal's reign. The day got off to
the right start with the always witty greeting from Treasurer Dan Larson, a man
of adroit verbal misdirection while inserting his hand deep into your
pocketbook. Speaking of which, Secretary Carol Krantz handed out invoices for
July-December dues. Pay quickly since rumor has it that RI is about to announce
a modest dues increase for each of the next three years. (He ain't heavy; he's
our Frank!)
A lot of discussion today about news articles proclaiming the increase in polio
cases in the African subcontinent. RI VP and soon to be RI - UN Ambassador Frank
tells us much of this is due to the "idiocy" of a governor in a region of
Nigeria who has up to now refused for religious reasons to allow vaccinations of
his population. Good news is that the World Health Organization has intervened
and got the program back on track. Rotary has run out of money for this project
(over $600,000,000 invested to date) but G-8 countries have stepped up and
agreed to cover remaining costs to complete the elimination of this dread
disease.
PDE Dick Seidman was our only guest today. Fines were collected from Herb
Tischofer (Rotary Anniversary), Peter & Sue Klock and Skip Guillemette (Wedding
Anniversaries), Bill Flynn (birthday), President Neal and Doug Willett (Pix in
paper) and Dick Seidman (whole list of happy thoughts). Don Hallquist
played "New York, New York" in honor of the missing John Mozzicato.
Good news on the Tom Galvin front. Tom had surgery on Tuesday and the doctors
reported they think they got it all. (Hope they left this man's funny bone
intact. It is a unique one but well exercised so it probably survived.) Tom
will probably be in Hartford Hospital for a few days so cards and letters are
appropriate.
President Neal was the recipient of a well-deserved Presidential Citation,
presented by ADG Doug Willett on behalf of DG Jeff Tager. President Neal also
reported that the E.H. Gazette ran an eight-page spread on the work of the Club
with the School Business Partnership. And he read well-written thank you notes
from scholarship recipient Dave Liner and the teacher of the young elementary
student who we provided with clothes and other assistance. Both letters made the
day even brighter.
Mary Martin reported that there has been a Gazebo sighting on the town green.
Work is "half-done" on the structure and after landscaping we should be ready
for a dedication ceremony this fall.
George Stewart invited one and all to an Open House this Sunday between 1:30 and
4 p.m. at his home at 207 Country Lane. The party is a celebration of George and
Jay's 80th birthdays. Jay called this scribe later to reiterate the universality
of the invitation and to discourage gift giving.
Bill Saunders modeled a golf windbreaker that will be presented to each golfer
in our upcoming tournament. If you are playing, call him with your shirt size to
ensure proper fit. He also encouraged all members to get on the stick soliciting
players, sponsors, and raffle prizes. Although he is too polite to say it, Bill
is somewhat discouraged that over half the membership historically contributes
nothing to this event each year. Since this is our major fundraiser, there is no
good excuse for any of us to shirk our responsibilities here. Golf Committee
meetings at 11:30 a.m.on July 14th and July 28th.
Our speaker, Mary Dansinghani, presented some interesting insights on using
mandalas and labyrinths to help people get centered and connected to the
wholeness of life. These symbols are universal in art and religions, not to
mention in the form of the Rotary wheel.
- An interesting presentation.
Makeup's turned in from Lionel Lessard, Bob Wood, and Frank and Ceil Collins.
That's enough. See you at the Stewarts on Sunday and at our Installation Dinner
next week. . WDOUGW
"As the days dwindled down to a precious few…" our erstwhile President Neal
presided with aplomb and a command presence over our annual visit to the Leone
manse for our Sergeant At Arms Party. The crowd was goodly as was the fare.
Spotted among the boisterous revelers were old friends Fred Campbell, Frank
Kreson, Richard O'Brien, and Bob Popp.
As at all Sergeant At Arms parties the grub was first rate. Wielding his tongs
and spatula like the culinary maestro he is, Bill Leone produced succulent
steaks and sensuous salmon for all in attendance. Sided by tossed salad, ziti,
and garlic bread, the main course was soon history. And this was after much
imbibing of drink and inhaling of hors d'oeuvres from cheese, pepperoni and
crackers to chicken tenders. And it preceded the traditional dessert of make
your own vanilla sundaes. On my, no one was seen to leave the table hungry. Bill
was ably assisted by Kathy McCabe, Spurge Stokes, Dean Roland, the inestimable
Bev Leone and others behind the scene. As always the set up and clean up
opportunities brought out a host of volunteers. All in all, a successful and
enjoyable event. Let's do it once a month instead of once a year.
My recollection (this is my first sergeant at arms party since 1995) was that
the Sergeant at Arms always took a night off at the annual Sergeant at Arms
Party, but tonight this was not to be. Indeed, Sgt. John Mozzicato took the
occasion to "clean up the books." So Bob Popp paid for three anniversaries, up
to and including his 44th. Don Cramer and Frank Kreson both paid for
anniversaries last year and this. Don is up to 26 and Frank is at 23. And
Darlene Roberts paid for her 1st anniversary and her birthday on February 6!
Brian Hall paid to celebrate a promotion with the Boy Scouts and Doug Willett
paid for his new, used wheels. The Yankee fans paid still again and George
Schoen paid for his forty five "yard" putt which brought tears to the eyes of
Amberg and Bradbury. And finally, Larry Churchill paid for jumping to the head
of the food line, shattering all protocol and embarrassing his peers.
One prominent Rotarian missing (and greatly missed) from our gathering was Tom
Galvin. Tom, who has done so much over the years to coordinate this event, is in
Hartford Hospital with a "rather nasty gastric ulcer" waiting for test results.
Our prayers and warm wishes go out to you, Tom. You are one of the good guys -
get back to us soon.
Jeanette and Fred Campbell are in town for the best of reasons. Their grandson,
Ari, is graduating from EHHS on Thursday evening as the Valedictorian. And,
Rotary friends, Ari will be joined on stage by Salutatorian, David Liner, whose
proud grandparents are none other than Bill and Bev Saunders. Number One and
Number Two. Not bad, not bad at all. Congratulations.
Declaring that the Club, in the last few days of his stewardship, had
experienced enough "gaiety and frivolity" for one night, President Neal
dismissed the group with a resounding clang of the bell. (The neighbors sitting
on their deck behind the Leone property jumped six inches off their chairs.)
Two weeks to go. See you at the Ridge. WDOUGW
"Help us to be true to the Four Way Test" was Bill Flynn’s prayerful request as he blessed our weekly gathering, this after we had sung to Rotary and America respectively. President Neal, poised and calm as usual, presided over one of his last few meetings, with distinguished District guests at the head table, PDG Tom Voorhees and DGE Dick Seidman, both under the hospitable wing of Jim Watts, one of our Club’s strong participants in District activities over the years. Other guests today were Jeff Aube, guest of Dan Firestone, and Tommy Bates, son of our own Steve, and new Kindergarten graduate. Moe Moshovos led the Welcome Song, with reminiscence of Zorba in his style, a fortissimo effort by our members! SA Roy Spiller, duly chastised by someone for not wearing his Rotary pin, paid a fine and then asked all Rotarians without a pin to "fess up" and pay up. Count on Roy to use every advantage to raise a buck or two! Roy then announced Club membership anniversaries for Dave Amberg (5), Chuck Clarke (9), and Pat Porteous (4). He fined Gerry Brady for arriving late and leaving early, and Skip Guillemette the same. This man is dedicated! Roy also told us that Sue and Peter Klock are about to observe their 37th wedding anniversary, for which Sue contributed handsomely.
And get this: Roy fined Yankee fans for their team being in first place, and suggested that the same apply to the Red Sox fans when they are there. Steinbrenner’s Rep, Doug Willett said that this would only be needed in April and May!
President Neal announced steady progress on the gazebo at the Town Center. Concrete and conduit in place and construction kit due any day now. He called on Darlene Roberts, YMCA Director, who presented Rotary a citation for its substantial support of the "Strong Kids Campaign". Neal asked for volunteers to assist Tom Galvin next Wednesday at 1:30 at the Ridge with loading tables, tent, etc. for the SA cookout at the home of Bill and Bev Leone, Remember, this is the official meeting on June 16, no noon meeting. Mary Martin appealed for payment by the twelve who signed up but have not paid for the June 30 Installation Banquet at Adam’s Mill, Manchester. Social hour at 6 and dinner at 7. Please pay no later than the SA party.
Makeup cards were handed to your scribe for Steve Jacoby (Savannah West,GA), Lionel Lessard (Rockville), and Roy Spiller (Manchester). We thank these boosters of our rank in the District where we are usually near the top in percentage of attendance. Jim Watts introduced our special guests from District 7890. Dick Seidman our incoming District Governor is a member of the West Hartford Club. Tom Voorhees, speaker, is a member of the Avon-Canton Club and was 7890 DG in 1999-2000. He joined Rotary in New Jersey in 1973. Tom is District Chairman of the Rotary Foundation Committee, of which our own Jim Watts is a member. Tom said he knew he was talking to a Club which has been very loyal to the Rotary Foundation through the years, contributing almost a quarter of a million dollars.
Last year District Clubs gave $148,000 to the general program of the Foundation, and another $198,000 in restricted gifts (endowment). The Foundation began in 1917 and its first contribution was $26.00 by the Kansas City Rotary Club. In 2002-2003 Rotarians contributed 55.8 million dollars!! Rotarians can be proud of the great educational and humanitarian programs which the Foundation makes possible in the world:Polio Plus, Youth Exchanges, Group Study Exchanges, Ambassadorial Scholarships, Matching Grants for development projects, all seeking to bring unity, peace, and security to the human family. The Rotary Foundation needs and deserves the support of every Rotarian, This year’s District goal has been to seek gifts from every member of $75, either by direct individual donations or through a Club donation recognizing this ratio. Our thanks to Tom for this informative talk about the very heart of Rotary’s mission.
I close with Tom’s closing quote from Winston Churchill, "You make a living by what you get; you make a life by what you give."
I’ve enjoyed my six weeks as your reporter. Enjoy the gift of each day.
Perambulatin’ Parson (Roger and Anne Nicholson)
HIGH GEAR for June 2, 2004
"Lend a Hand, Rotary International’s current theme as the
year winds down was the theme of our meeting today as we welcomed a delegation
from the East Hartford/Glastonbury Magnet School on May Road. Pupils Jessica
Mello and Tapan Dalal, along with their Principal, Rotarian Glen Peterson, the
Community Service Coordinator Elayna Szkrybalo and PTO President Tracy Mello
(Jessica’s mom) came to report on their fund raising project for Heifer
International, and to receive our Club’s promised contribution toward their
efforts. Our Club’s contribution was $1,000 which we added to what the children
raised, $1,948, making a total donation to the work
of Heifer International of close to $3,000. Your Scribe, representing the
Northeast Region of Heifer, presented the Magnet School a citation from Heifer
International. Hungry families around the world will get a helping hand in the
form of food producing animals. Rotary is in partnership withHeifer
International.Luncheon today was eggplant parmigiana with ziti and strawberry/
rhubarb pie for dessert. Side salad also. Herb Tischofer, back from his travels,
led a vigorous welcome song accompanied by a natty looking keyboard artist named
Donald. Roy Spiller, SA, reported a very good day: Birthdays for Steve Bates,
Chuck Clarke, Don Cramer, Herb Tischofer and "Lefty": Firestone. Dan was the
only one who requested song, but he wanted only those who had suffered a broken
arm in their lives to sing. Surprisingly there were several who were qualified
and sang pretty well! Club membership anniversaries were duly paid for by Steve
Bates, Walt Kupchunos and Gil Wishart. Dave Amberg paid for a new car (brand not
clear) and Dan Russell paid for his fiftieth college reunion (pretty sure it was
Syracuse U.).
Sue Klock, our hard-working roster preparer with a mind for detail and accuracy
asked us to check the latest version and inform her of any needed changes. We
appreciate your sticktoitedness, Sue!
Bill Saunders reminded everyone of the Golf T. Committee meeting next Wednesday
at 11 AM at the Ridge. Sponsor forms were circulating for the tournament, so
it’s time to get cracking on recruiting support. Let’s give Bill and his
committee our best effort. They deserve it, our service projects need it, the
community will be better for it.
President Neal announced nice thank you letters from East Hartford Basketball
coach/coordinator for our financial support of the Town’s program to keep kids
busy and out of trouble through sports; and from the
Performing Arts program for our Club’s support of creative programs for children
in the community. Again, Rotary at work, this time in the avenue of community
service. Neal does a great job of keeping us informed about
the good we are doing. Thanks, Neal, it’s been a super year with you at the
helm.
Our District reputation for high attendance was maintained by the loyal maker
uppers, Herb Tischofer, twice at Naples, FL; Lionel Lessard and Chuck Clarke at
Rockville; and Frank and Ceil Collins at W. Springfield, MA (District Assembly),
Beijing, China (Provisional Club Meeting), Seoul, Korea (Rotary Club of Hanyang),
Osaka, Japan (International Institute)
and Osaka, Japan (International Convention). Just think: our East Hartford Club
gets around!
Mary Martin says the numbers look good for our Installation Banquet June 30 at
Adams Mill in Manchester. Social hour at 6 PM and Dinner at 7 PM.
Please get your checks in to Mary ASAP, $35 per person. This occasion is a high
light of our Rotary year as we thank our outgoing President and welcome our new
President to take over July 1st.
Today’s winning raffle ticket was held by Carmen Piscatello, even if he didn’t
seem to care. Jack Ghagan, however, was looking after him!
ROTARY AT A GLANCE: 1,211,723 Rotarians; 31,603 Clubs; 529 Districts; 166
Countries.
Let’s all do our best in some way, great or small, to "LEND A HAND".
Perambulatin’ Parson (reporter: Roger Nicholson)
HIGH GEAR for May 26, 2004
"Imagination" was the theme of our guest speaker today, The Reverend Dr.
Henry Millan, new resident of Covenant Village in Cromwell, formerly of
East Hartford. Henry describes himself as "retired, retreaded and
rejoicing." He’s minister-in-residence at South Congregational Church of
East Hartford. He was the founder of the Pastoral Counseling Center of
West Hartford. A person of great humor, Henry helped us see how a
"positive imaging" (imagination) can help us cope with life’s greatest
challenges. Our thanks to Art Bradbury for bringing this helpful program
to us. "What makes your heart sing?" Focus on this when clouds gather!
Today’s gong rang on the dot and "DH" (not designated hitter) led us in a
robust rendition of "the song", after which we saluted the flag. Ted
Mosebach gave a thoughtful grace and we sat down to a repast featuring
"mystery chicken" with string beans and rice, followed by banana cake.
Dan Russell, (with intimations of Roger Driggs) led the raucous welcome
song for our only visitor, today’s guest speaker. How we do love to sing!
Don H. brings it out of us, that’s for sure.
SA John Mazzicato gets an Emmy for today’s report! We discovered "the
American Idols" in the persons of Carmen Piscatello and Scotty Howatt,
who were the only two qualified to sing Happy Birthday to Dean Roland.
You had to be older than Dean, who is 82. Then, John followed this feat
by telling us George Stewart (80 on May 30th) wanted a full-voiced
rendition of Happy Birthday. We brought the rafters down! So it was a bit
anticlimactic when John told us about club anniversaries for Herb Barall,
12 years and Larry Churchill, 20 years.
Carol Krantz handed this editor a long list of makeups, too much for this
space. It was a list of more than 35 Rotarians and "spices" who staffed
the recent Seniors Prom at East Hartford High School. Thanks to everyone
for a stellar event!
You had to be proud today to be a Rotarian! President Neal told us the
club received the School Business Partnership Sam J. Leone Award for
meritorious support of this youth program through our high school. He
also reported a very enthusiastic thank you for our $500 contribution to
Sonteni International, an aids intervention program in Kenya. Gil
Wishart’s daughter is the link with this vitally important health
initiative.
How exciting to hear from Glenn that the children that attend the East
Hartford/Glastonbury Magnet School have raised $1,600 for Heifer Project.
We will add $700 to their effort. On June 9th we will feature the young
people at our meeting.
Still more great news: Dave Amberg announced the East Hartford Rotary
Scholarship Awardees for 2004:
Jessica Belasano (EHHS) will attend Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Lauren Carpernter (ECHS) will attend Smith College
Maureen Fearon (EHHS) will attend Boston College
David Liner (EHHS) will attend the University of Connecticut (David
receives the Jack Davis Scholarship, thanks Helen.)
Erica Woods (EHHS) will attend American International College
Thanks, Dave, and the hard working committee for this good news. Each
award is for $2,500.
Steve Jacoby complimented Rotarian Doug Willett for his many citations
for community service. Steve is pleased that one of our local RYLA
students is part of the fourteen who will go to the national RYLA
Conference at the University of Wisconsin this summer.
Bill Saunders gave a pep talk on the Golf Tournament. He thanked Carol
Krantz for the introduction of special sartorial items like hats and tee
shirts, also garland pins. The committee will now bear down on sponsors
starting next week. Thanks, Bill, for your steady leadership.
President-elect "Lefty" Firestone, looking very well, told us he
appreciated all the cards, calls and visits. "It only hurts when I
breathe," he added. He reminds everyone to sign up for committees ASAP.
Finally, Mary Martin reported significant progress on the gazebo. There’s
now an excavation! She also urges signups for the installation dinner.
Please give her your check next week, $35 per person.
Jack Ghagan won today’s raffle and we closed with one verse of "America
the Beautiful."
Perambulaltin’ Parson, Roger and Anne Nicholson
HIGH GEAR
FOR MAY 19. 2004
An overcast hangover from the previous night’s thunderstorm did not dull
the enthusiasm of East Hartford’s Rotarians and guests who gathered at
Veterans Memorial Clubhouse today. President Neal’s forthright strike of
the gong quieted the room and we sang the usual song without Don’s
accompaniment. He’s en route back from Sanibel Island. Bill Flynn gave a
thoughtful invocation and we sat down to a tasty repast of filet of sole,
mashed potatoes and vegetable medley, with carrot cake for dessert. Oh
yeah, I forgot to mention we did salute the stars and stripes also. Our
nation sure needs our support these days!!
Many makeups were handed to me today, as follows: Steve Jacoby at New
Britain and Savannah West, GA, Don Cramer, Ft. Myers, FL, Herb Tischofer,
twice, at Naples Bay, FL, and Art Bradbury at Tenerife, Spain. Welcome
back, Art! Eight members made up at the Scholarship Committee’s recent
meeting, to whit: B. Wood, B. Flynn, M. Martin, B. Secord, D. Willett, P.
Porteus and J. Fallon. Dave Amberg has been busy with Habitat for
Humanity and gets credit for four makeups. Way to go, Dave!
The Welcome Song, led by the author himself, Tom Westbrook, was rendered
for guests Jeff Aube (Dan Firestone’s guest, only Dan didn’t make it
today. More below about that); and Dan Larson’s sister, Mary Lou Onidi,
who was to introduce today’s guest speaker. SA John Mazzicato reported
donations for birthdays by Jim Watts, Margaret LaCroix and Leroy Spiller.
Roy asked everyone over age 71 to sing to him. Half the people present
gathered around Roy’s table for a cacophony of HB, or so it looked!
Margaret also paid for her eight year Club anniversary. Gerry Brady was
fined for being on time and confusing everyone. Tom Galvin clarified it
by telling us Gerry was on time for last week! Never mind, Gerry, we know
you are slowing down.
Mary Martin reminded us yet again it’s time to sign in for the
Installation Banquet on June 30 at Adam’s Mill. Let her know ASAP. Also,
be sure to add your name to the list of 53 signed up already for the
annual SA party at Bill Leone’s home June 16 at 5:30 PM. SUE KLOCK IS
TRYING TO FINALIZE THE REVISED ROSTER, SO LET HER KNOW AT ONCE ABOUT ANY
CHANGES. Steve Jacoby presented President Neal with a colorful flag from
the Savannah West Club. He also told us left over food supplies from the
Senior Ball went to the East Hartford Shelter. Jack Ghagan announced it’s
been decided not to participate in the Town Memorial Day Parade this
year, due to commitments around the Gazebo project. Maybe next year?
President Neal reported from the Board of Directors that donations have
been voted for the Summer Program in the Arts for Kids ($675) and the
East Hartford Coach’s Summer Basketball Program ($350). Solid community
support from Rotary. We should be proud! Dan Dienst reported that Bunny
Belanger’s cancer intervention surgery went well and the prognosis is
highly favorable (90%). Check with Dan about how to assist Moe these
days. Also, Bob Richmond said we should send cards and notes to Bunny.
His recent illness was greatly helped by the support he got from the
Club. Now, our President-Elect’s situation was shared by Neal. It seems
Dan Firestone was riding his bike and hit a pot hole which threw him off
the bike. He broke his arm, plus some abrasive injuries, hence his
absence from today’s meeting. Sorry to hear this, Dan, and please know of
our concern and support. Mend quickly, your installation is coming up
fast!
Dee Blackwood is writing a book about people’s travel experiences. She’s
been working on this since 1995. She invites you to send her any of your
travel experiences, good or bad, happy or sad, slight or major. Dee feels
there’s a lot to share and would like to hear from you about any incident
in your traveling experience. Should be an interesting compilation, Dee.
Today’s speaker, introduced by Mary Larson Onidi, was Sister Pat KcKeon
of the Sisters of Mercy Order. She represents the Mercy Housing and
Shelter Corporation. Sister Pat told us of the persistent problem of the
homeless. There are 40,000 shelters nationwide! A permanent underclass of
homeless persons seems to be becoming a reality in America .Many are
children, with all the long-term implications for them which lack of
stable home life causes. Sister Pat told us about the initiative called
"REACHING HOME", a ten year plan to end long term homelessness in
Connecticut. This is a program which Rotary surely should have a keen
interest in. It is dismaying to think that a country like ours can’t
provide basic housing for its neediest citizens. We salute the Sisters of
Mercy for their persistence in working on this critical social problem.
See you next week. LEND A HAND.
Perambulatin’ Parson
Roger Nicholson
High Gear
for May 12, 2004
A nice May day was today’s climatological context for the gathering on
top of East Hartford known as ROTARY. Some of us felt like it was the
12th of May in the modern Barbaric Era. When will the world learn?
Violence begets violence. Show tunes by Don at the keyboard helped
alleviate the dismay at what’s going on, just a little. "Edelweiss"
struck a note of love and hope.
Ted Mosebach shared a sensitive invocation, asking divine power to help
Rotarians make a difference, then we enjoyed a tasty lunch of chicken,
rice and gravy with a vegetable medley, and fruit Jell-O to follow.
President Neal asked for introduction of guests and Dan Firestone
presented his guest, Jeff Aube, followed by Herb Barall’s presentation of
his guest, Marc Yves-Regis. Jim Reik teamed with Don for a well-sung
rendition of the Welcome Song.
SA John Mazzicato told us of the birthday donations by Spurgeon Stokes
and Marcia LeClerc, to whom we sang a boisterous HB. John also informed
us of a donation by Hyacinth Douglas-Bailey for her Club membership
anniversary. Gil Wishart and George Stewart made a special donation in
honor of Roy Spiller’s 50th year as a Mason. Peter Klock had today’s
winning ticket for the weekly raffle. By the way, money raised by this
means supports the annual Sargent at Arms party, slated for June 16 this
year at Bill and Bev Leone’s lovely home. Please sign up very soon for
this event. Mary Martin is looking for reservations for the Installation
Banquet on June 30. Please give her your check ($35 per person) ASAP.
President Elect Dan Firestone took the podium to thank everyone for the
stellar work which made the E. Hartford Seniors Ball a great success last
week at the High School. He cited many persons, especially Sue Klock who
did terrific advance preparation. Unfortunately the Press failed to
mention one word about Rotary’s efforts, par for the course really.
Jack Ghagan is looking for Rotarians to participate in the Town Memorial
Day parade, especially anyone with an antique auto. He will be hoping to
touch base next week at the Ridge with any who may be interested. OUR
ROTARY FAMILY notes Don Cramer’s mother’s passing recently. Our sympathy
to you, Don and June. Also, Dan Dienst shared news that Bunny Belanger
will have surgical intervention very soon now for early stage cancer.
Volunteers may be needed to help out. Check with Dan and Loretta. Let’s
keep Bunny and Moe in our prayers.
President Neal announced that Rotary will receive an award from the
School Business Partnership next Wednesday (May 19) at 4:30 PM at the
Ridge. Neal is hoping some members will attend with him. Give Neal a call
if able. The Golf Tournament Committee will have an important meeting
next week at 11 AM at the Ridge. It’s not too soon to be seeking
sponsors, forming teams, gathering prizes, all the many aspects of a
successful tournament.
Today’s guest speaker (the first in a while!) was introduced by Jackie
Denise. Doctor Robert McAllister, an
East Hartford
native, is an
orthopedic surgeon specializing in joint replacement procedures and
related arthritis management. A distinguished graduate of UConn Dr.
McAllister gave us a power point lecture about joint replacement and the
many vagaries of arthritis as an aspect of aging. Really, it was sort of
a mini graduate course in the subject, telling us much more than we could
absorb about the very pertinent subject. Also, the good doctor
interspersed his slides with scenes from his tour in Afghanistan where he
was deeply involved with our military’s efforts to rebuild the country.
We also got a few glimpses of his personal life, including his great
interest in animals. Overall, Dr. Bob came across as a very well-rounded
individual who must be exceptionally good at his profession. It struck me
that he would be fun to have as a surgeon, combining knowledge, skill,
and a personable manner. Thanks, Jackie, for a most informative program
today.
Since the adjournment time had passed Neal thanked our speaker and
dismissed us "sans singing" and we dispersed, some to the links, some
back to work, some to their gardens, some to appointments, your scribe to
the word processor which now conveys this second May newsletter to you
all. May you have a pleasant and productive week, seeking to "LEND A
HAND."
Perambulatin’ Parson (aka Roger Nicholson)
"Every ticket’s a winner" said Spurgeon as I handed over my raffle
dollar, after Dan had relieved me of twelve other dollars. Roy Spiller
had the lucky number today, however. But I thought "Spurgeon’s right,
every ticket is a winner, because every Rotarian is blessed to belong to
such a great organization as Rotary, and also such a wonderful Club as
ours."
Bill Flynn gave a thoughtful invocation after the flag salute and we sat
down to an open faced roast beef sandwich with gravy, potato salad and
green beans, with sherbet for dessert. Roy Spiller was table hopping with
roster pages, getting everyone to proof the data for the upcoming
edition. A sign-up clip board came by for reservations for the
Installation Banquet on Wednesday, June 30 at Adam’s Mill. Payment now
due, with a June 16 deadline. Please pay Mary Martin or Spurgeon Stokes
$35 per person. Cash bar, but wine will be on the tables.
One guest today, Dennis Weir of Glastonbury (intro by Steve Jacoby),
serenaded by the awesome singers of Rotary led by Larry Churchill and
Maestro Don. Much talk about Rotary’s 100th anniversary convention June
of 2005 in Chicago. District Governor elect, Dick Seidman has reserved a
block of rooms at the Westin. Contact him by Friday, May 7 to get on the
early list. SA John Mazzicato announced Club membership anniversaries for
Bob Brown (29), John McNaughton (16) and Neil Cunningham (13), plus a
birthday for Bob Brown. Bill Flynn paid for a new car. Bob opted for
silence in observance of his natal day.
SA party will be at Bill and Bev Leone’s lovely home again. June 16 is
the date. The traditional "boys of summer" game with Glastonbury Rotary
may be the last Monday in July. Get in shape! President Neal reported we
made the huge sum of $208.69 at the recent Blue and White scrimmage. He
also represented us at Career Day at EH Middle School. Neal mentioned a
movement to preserve the Chicago home of Paul Harris is taking shape in
the Rotary world. The Saratoga trip is now sold out, but your scribe did
not catch the voice of the one who announced this.
Glen Peterson thanked the Club for its partnership with the East
Hartford/Glastonbury Magnet School in raising funds for Heifer Project.
He reported enthusiastic fund raising by the school children, already
exceeding their $700 goal, which we will match as a Club. He read a
wonderful note sent to him by a second grader telling him she had raised
$73.69! The final wrap up is at hand and we are all invited to the Fun
Fair on May 15, 3 to 7 P.M. at the school (McCartin) on May Road.
Makeups reported today were Jim Sheehan (2) at Saratoga Springs, and
Auburn, AL (2); Roger Nicholson (2) at Saratoga Springs; Steve Jacoby San
Antonio NW, Texas and Savannah W., Georgia; and Celia and Frank Collins
at Glastonbury and Bermuda.
Today’s program was a very interesting and informative presentation by
Bill Secord and Glen Peterson about the Baccalaureate Academy adjacent to
East Hartford High School, and the Magnet School programs of the region,
particularly the East Hartford/Glastonbury school. Jim Fallon deserves a
lot of recognition for the development of these outstanding educational
enterprises, as does Bill Secord who was involved from the inception.
These excellent educational programs reflect a strong partnership between
the State and Municipalities. East Hartford has been distinguished by
this program. A new Magnet School facility is soon to be built at
Rentschler Field. Thanks Bill and Glen for a very good presentation.
This newsletter was written by THE PERAMBULATIN’ PARSON. Let’s remember
to "lend a hand" in keeping with Rotary’s current slogan.
President Neal rang us to order and another Wednesday East Hartford Rotary meeting was underway. After the Song-of –Songs George Schoen called upon the Lord for His blessing. A lunch of capon, green beans, and mashed potatoes with a desert of strawberry short cake followed.
Although there were no guests today Bill Flynn and Frank Kreson were welcomed back.
I think the welcome song, led by Gail Greaney was for our wandering duo. Sgt-at-Arms reserve Dan Dienst, filling in for Tommy Tooth, fined Frank K. for 24 years in Rotary and his many, many transgressions. Dan also fined Jim Fallon, Lionel Lessard, and Stu Harris for birthdays. It was kind of a slow day for reservist Dan. Make-ups; Don Cramer, Sanibel-Captiva Rotary, and Herb Discover, Naples Bay Rotary.
President Neal reported that Bob Richmond came through his operation without complications and faster than expected. There must have been a pitcher of beer waiting for him back in his room. Great to here Bob is doing so well. Hopefully, he’ll be back swinging his big club soon. (Golf club). P. Neal also reported that our club received a certificate of merit at the district conference for the gazebo-on-the-green project. He read a letter of thanks from the Somers Rotary Club for our recent contribution reported in the last High Gear. Bill Saunders set the date for our golf fundraiser for September 20th at Manchester. P.E. Dan passed out committee preference forms. Please fill out and return to Dan. Other reminders are the Sr. Prom is next Wednesday, suitcases can be left at any town fire station until May 1st and the MADD Walk club contacts are Mary Martin and spurge Stokes. The installation dinner will be July 12th.
Dee Blackwood once again had a speaker bug out. However, being the true Rotarian that she is, she stepped to the mike and gave an interesting twenty minutes on the life and times of her life as a travel agent. From her first goof to her setting up a traveler in a $5000.00 a night cabana and then putting him on a flight in coach she kept our interest.
With only a few dry statistics to fill out her talk, she did a great job. Dee, you are a good speaker.
With a verse of America the Beautiful, we closed the meeting.
April being the start of baseball, here are a few trivia.
April 17, 1820 Alexander Cartwright, was born. He developed baseball
April 1, 1876 the first NL game took place. Boston beat Philadelphia 6-5
April 25, 1876 the Cubs beat Louisville 4-0 (first NL shutout) in the first NL game
April 25, 1901, Erve Beck hit the 1st home run in the AL
April 22, 1914, Babe Ruth’s 1st pro game as a pitcher was a 6-hit 6-0 win
April 11, 1917, Babe Ruth beat the NY Yanks, pitching to a 3-hit, 10-3 win for Boston
April 28, 1930, the 1st night game was played in Independence, Kansas
April 22, 1989, Nolan Ryan struck out his 5,000th batter, Rickey Henderson.
In the very middle of a very muddled telling of an old joke by Old Dean president Neal thankfully rang the bell. The Song of Songs followed as tradition dictates. Rev Roger called upon the Lord of Lords and with thanks and gratitude called for His blessing. There upon Sgt-at-arms Tom began his rounds and a fine job he did. As was mentioned last week Andy Andreo and Rev Roger celebrated their 76th birthday (or is it birthdays) by a large donation by Andy. A nice birthday present to the club. Anniversaries; Gail Greaney
2 years, Marcia Leclerc 5 years, George Agnelli 29 years (perfect attendance?), and Staci Brazalovich 5 years. Bill Leone was fined $2.00 for a derogatory remark toward the Sgt-at–arms. For only $2.00 it could not have been one of Bill’s best efforts.
Visitors today were Steven Bates Jr. and Russ Dale of the Springfield club. It was good to see Russ again. Steve Jr had a look on his face that said holly cow these old guys pray?
Yes Steve we need more help than you will ever know till you’re an “old guy” Doug Willett led us through a rousing “Welcome Song”
Todd Andrews is now a “real” badge recipient.
Make-ups; Don Cramer at Sanibel-Captiva, Florida and Frank & Ceil Collins at Glenville, NY. Frank was the Polio-Plus Dinner Speaker
President Neal reported that the board of directors voted to discontinue staffing the concession booth at Rentschler Field. The net income to our club did not compensate us for the hours involved. The board also voted to fund two shelter boxes. Each box will provide basic shelter and sustenance for a family during an emergency.
They’re being no speaker again this week we adjourned early with one stanza of “GOD BLESS AMERICA”
LRF
Let’s not forget April 18th in the year ’75:
By the rude bridge that arched the flood,
Their flag to April’s breeze unfurled,
Here once the embattled farmers stood,
And fired the shot heard round the world.
From “CONCORD HYMM” BY Ralph Waldo Emerson.
HIGH
GEAR for April 14, 2004
President Neal brought the meeting to order at 12:15 PM sharp with a rap of the
bell. Gil Wishart called upon the Lord to bless us. A meal of tilapia, a fish
from Hawaiian waters, was served with mashed potatoes and cold slaw. The fish,
new to this writer, is tender, mild, and tasty.
There were several announcements. Letters of thanks were received from William
Sime and Interval House for $250.00 donations to each. We will be hearing from
William when his project is completed. The August 1st bus trip to Saratoga will
cost $40.00 a person including the bus, food on the bus, and admission to the
racetrack. The board of directors will meet Monday the 19Th at the Cultural
Center. The golf committee will meet next Wednesday at 11:30 at the ridge.
Two presentations were made. President Neal presented Mike Knepp with his
official rotary badge. Now that you are official Mike you can loosen up a bit
and ware civvies. Danny O'boy standing in for Congressmen Larson presented to
the Spillers (only Roy was present) a Certificate of Meritorious Service from
the U.S. Congress. We do stand in awe. Spurg passed out badges to the stadium
workers for Saturday's scrimmage. If you are in doubt about time and place call
Spurg at 521-5386.
On comes the Sgt-at -arms Roy. Fines from Andy Andreo, Roger Nicholson, and
Larry Churchill for birthday anniversaries. Spurgeon anteed up for fifty-one
years of married life. Betty Ann he was very gracious, you obviously taught him
well.
Lottery winner today, Ceil Collins.
Make-ups: at Fort Myers; Don Cramer and Bob Wood; at Naples Bay; Chuck Clarke
and Herb Tischofer; and Jack Sayre at Summit, N.J.
They're being no speaker this week again we were dismissed with a verse of
"America" at 1:00 PM.
The singing of " America" brought to mind April 12th,143 years ago. At 4:30 AM
General Beauregard’s order to fire began the bombardment of Fort Sumter. Four
years less three days later on April 9th General Robert E. Lee surrendered to
General U.S. Grant and the American Civil War ended.
While the generals were at the business of surrender the boys of war came
together on a large field below the Court House and fifty years later a
Pennsylvanian would remember being among the Johnny rebs and feeling as well
treated as if he had been among his own boys," and a person would think we had
been fighting under the same flag".
LRF
HIGH GEAR for
Wednesday, April 7, 2004
While the members were assembling our own virtuoso Don entertained with a snappy version of “Take me out to the ball game”. President Neal opened the meeting with the ringing of the bell at 12:47 sharp. Dave Amberg followed with the invocation. A lunch of raisin glazed ham, asparagus and potatoes au gratin was then served. Dessert was a tasty matza cake. There in one lunch we celebrated both Passover and Easter. What good folk we are.
Sgt-at-arms Tom G. could not raise enough in fines with only Bill Secord and Jack Ghagan being fined for birthdays so he fined the members two dollars each in honor of the Uconn boys and girls basketball championships. Leave it to the digger of healthy ivories to come up with that one.
Guests for today were DGE Dick Seidman and Bob the banker from Glastonbury. The welcome song was led by Scotty in-the-red-suspenders. DGE Dick announced the passing of Don Kennett of the Somers Club. Don was the Rotarian who was to undergo organ transplant and for whom we were asked by the Somers club to contribute helping funds. We did raise five hundred dollars. The funds will now be used to off set Don Kennett’s accrued medical expenses. The Somers club raised one hundred fifty thousand dollars in less than a month. This speaks volumes about Rotary.
John Shemo reported on the very successful hoedown Saturday last and thanked many for all the help and effort. About a third of the club was involved in the affair. Among much merriment Dick Lemieux was introduced to a very good friend of several members of our club the very fine Jack Daniel. It is a shame that Dick took so long to meet this smooth fellow.
Sue Klock once again asked for volunteers to help prepare the meal for the Senior Citizens Prom. The prom will be held May 5th at 4:30 PM in the East Hartford High School cafeteria. Call Sue at 430-1442 or e-mail her at suehklock@aol.com. This is a hands-on project of our club.
The raffle was won by Don Hallquist. This was his second win. The first win was donated to the Foundation in the name of godfather Piscatello. This time Don will give it to HIS favorite charity.
No speaker today so we were dismissed at 1:10
April, the most welcome of months. Gone are the wild winds of winter, the snarling snowstorms, silver slippery sleet, cold clinging chills, and dark dreary days. You bring the promise of spring, the greening of the land, the ever lengthening of the daylight, the snowbirds, the tax refund, and Great Outdoor Laddies Fun.
LRF
Wednesday, Mar.31, 2004
Bruce Dupreist says we need it, so I guess we can't complain about the rainy
day. Especially when it helps make the grass turn green! An eclectic array of
tunes from Uncle Don's keyboard today: "Home on the Range" to "Falling
Leaves"- Beautiful!
After an invocation from this scribe, we sat to a meal of chicken cacciatore,
string beans and sauteed mushrooms, with a plate of finger-food goodies for
dessert. Our table was favored with the presence of returning snowbirds
Jacquie Danise and Walt Kupchunos from beautiful downtown
Venice (no Virginia, not the one in Italy!) Making our table a very special
place was PDG from Kennebunk, ME, Craig Wellman. Other Guests included
Rotarians Delle Clouch from Meredith, NH, and Norm Rauscher from Wilbraham, MA.
New Paul Harris Fellow John McNaughton showed a lot of spirit in leading
the Welcome Song, with the help of Don Hallquist, of course!
Sgt. at Arms Jack Sayre whined a little as he offered a lame excuse about
how last week's S.A.A. had collected all the fines, leaving him with nothing but
late arrivers and early leavers. He felt a bit better when he silenced this
rabble-rouser reporter with a fine for pointing out that his arm band was
wearing the inside of the fine bank!
Announcements from President Neal:
Rentschler Field signup for April 17 going strong...still need some more
help.
District Conference (April 23-25) still has openings...always a great
time!
Sue Klock made a plea for someone to act as Chief Honcho for the May 5
Senior Citizen Prom Day at EHHS. She and Peter will be away
all week, so a leader to "run the kitchen" is critically needed. Dan Dienst
volunteered to make the "logistics run" to Sam's. This is really a fun time of
involvement and someone to manage it needs to step up to the plate now.
This Saturday is the Big BBQ night, at 6:00PM. Tex Johnny
Shemo will have lots of TV sets on hand for us to watch the Lady Huskies win
their first game in the Final Four in New Orleans.
Thank you notes were acknowledged from CT National Guard for the round-up and
gift of paper back books, arranged for by Leo Christmas. Also, from The
Rotary Club of Tokai, South Africa, for our $500 to their Lavender Hill Project.
Our board has spent $238 on ceiling tiles in the lower kitchen of the Ridge.
Dues are still outstanding from somebody(s)....Can you believe it?
Steve Jacoby took 3 high school young people to the Interact Conference
in West Springfield. They need help (Rotarians) for the Easter Egg Hunt and
Project ID in co-op with the EH Police Dept. on April 3 from 9:30 to 11:30.
Raffle winner was Dan Russell!
Program today, introduced by Frank Collins, was Asst District Gov.
Bob Veedeman, from the Wilbraham/Hampden club. The subject? The upcoming US
Women's Open Golf Championship at The Orchards Country Club in South Hadley, MA
on June 28-July 4.
Rotary has the opportunity to manage the "Merchandise Pavilion," but must line
up 300 volunteers for the week, with 100 more still needed. Rotary will benefit,
by providing a service, as well as by getting lots and lots of publicity,
locally and TV nationally. It costs $95 to work as a volunteer. Twenty EH
Rotarians have already signed up and you can learn more about it by getting in
touch with Bob Wood.
Maker-uppers were: Herb & Chuck (2) in Naples, FL; Walt (2) and
Jacquie, in Venice-Nokomis, FL; Don in Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel,
FL; and a whole bunch at Dan L's for a Fireside Chat: Glen, BobB,
Jack, Marcia, Dick, Jim S. & Larry. Whew!
And that's it for March...I've enjoyed writing...hope you've enjoyed reading...Arthur
The beautiful weather brought a spring to the step of most of us, and Maestro Don Hallquist truly had spring in his fingertips, as his "social piano' gave forth with light-hearted Broadway tunes. How could we be so lucky, with a master at the keyboard every week of the year!
Following a fitting invocation by Rev Ted Mosebach, beseeching us, as always, to share with others, we sat to a Krause (and my) favorite, Chicken Pot Pie. Ummmmm!
Guests today included Kristine Beane, Don Healy, Roger, and Dick Seery. Looking for all the world like song leader par excellence Roger Driggs of old, Dan Russell gave a perfect imitation as he led us in East Hartford's own Welcome Song.
Sgt.at Arms Tom Galvin also led us thru a laundry list of celebrants who enriched our fine bank for these misdemeanors: Himself, for not wearing a Rotary badge; Ghagan, for going back to work full time (hooray!); Larson and Guillemette, Rotary anniversaries; Agnelli, who paid .75 for a like number of years in business (but an embarrassed relative with the initials Doug Willette would like us to believe that he paid the difference [$74.25] for his cheap-skate kin!); Shemo, for a radio commercial; and our everyday role model of good fellowship, good spirits, and wonderful sense of humor, never-grow-old Carmen J. Piscatello for attaining age 89! Acceding to Carmen's special request, Danny Boy Larson sang a heartrending version of the song with the same name. Verrry touching!
Special Announcements:
· Pres. Neal asked for interest in a club presence in the Mem. Day Parade???
· District Conf.April 23-25. Not as big a turnout... There's still time to sign up!
· Steve Jacoby's: Project I.D. will be done again, April 3rd, from 9:30 to 11:00; and, anyone interested in a Saratoga trip this summer, let Steve know!
· UConn will scrimmage on April 17 at Rentschler Field; we have opportunity to do a concession booth and beer kiosk. Seemed like a good show of hands!
· The Big BBQ night, April 3, Texas Johnny Shemo reminds us once again that: Payment should be made by next week to Dan Larson; that beer, bourbon, coffee and a "cowboy killer" will be served, but for anything else (including mixers) ya gotta bring yer own! Cowboy attire is mandatory. If UConn is playing, TV's will be there, too, and a big bunch of folks...so, expect a crowded room!
Early-leaver Marcia Leclerc gleefully accepted her Raffle winnings as she bounded for the door with a "Eureka, I've never won before!" And....
Steve Jacoby then introduced our program, Steve Goddard, lawyer, author, raconteur, and (your editor just learned) a Bates grad(!), who enthralled us with tales of the Wright Brothers' creative prowess which led to the first powered flight in Kitty Hawk. There were not-heard-before-stories of early death of Wilbur, battles with the Smithsonian and the U.S. government, and the sad account of Orville's estrangement from sister Catherine. The time moved all to quickly...we would like to have listened longer. Thanks, Steve, a good program!
Didn't learn of any other make-ups this week, besides Frank and Ceil at the Pocomont, PA - Key Garden PETS meetings. (I think Jim and Ruth were there, too!)
And wasn't it great we could be together!......................................Arthur
Here is this week's High Gear — With a plus — Spurge's demographics:
Average age of EH Rotarians: 62.7
Median age of EH Rotarians: 65 (i.e. half are under 65, half over)
Those 30-35 = 2
Those 36-40 = 2
Those 41-45 = 7
Those 46-50 = 6
Those 51-55 = 4
Those 56-60 = 9
Those 61-65 = 13
Those 66-70 = 19
Those 71-75 = 14
Those 76-80 = 6
Those 81-85 = 4
Those 86+ = 1
And once again, here it is!
Arthur
**************************************************************************************************
St.
Patrick's Day - Mar.17, 2004
Sure an' begorra, 'twas truly a day for the wearin' o' the green -- E'en by them
what has not a drop o' Irish blood in 'em. Oh well, 'twas evident they need all
the help they kin get! A repast fit for the Irish kings o' the castles was laid
out for us in the "wine 'n cheese" segment. Well done, O'Dino Rolando, ya'
earned yer shamrocks today! Now maybe ye'll be tellin' us who ordered the snow,
an' with only 3 days til spring, yet!
Don O'Hallquist dug deep and found his Irish keyboard repertoire; the
early libation prompted lots of singin' round the piana, producing a most
festive air. Our Prexy, Neal O'Cunningham called on George
O'Schoen for the invocation; with a lesson in spelling and pronunciation,
George asked for blessings on our gathering, the goals of Rotary International,
those less fortunate than we, and the corned beef and cabbage!
Without Guests, Danny O'Larson stood and wept silently through a
heartwrenching rendition of "Danny O'Boy." Sgt at Arms Roy O'Spiller
reported birthdays for Messers Hangland, Collins, & Lemieux. Dick's
was for a big 80, which rated a stirring Happy Birthday song. Roy also suggested
support for Dan Larson's St. Joseph's (no, not the aspirin) Medal of
Merit award on Sunday at the Cathedral at 3:00PM.
President Neal gave "thank you's" to Roy, Tom, & Don for their stellar
work in making the Paul Harris evening such a success. He also recognized Leo
Christmas for doing such a good job with the paperbacks for the guys and
gals in Iraq. In like manner, he read "thank you's" from Mary Beth Reid and
Loretta Dienst for their recognitions. Keeping in the family spotlight,
Dan Dienst then immediately won the (O')day's raffle!
"Texas Jack" Johnny Shemo reminded us of the BBQ event coming on April
3rd. Beer and Bourbon & branch water will be served, but if you crave wine with
your meal, bring it! Checks are welcome any time now ($25 per person) and
there'll be a prize for the best western outfit. Spurs, too, are welcome but
take 'em off before bedtime!
Spurge Stokes gave us a lot of fascinating info on our ages; hopefully,
Sue Klock will find the space to put it all on the E.H. Rotary website,
space we don't have here!
Pres. Neal's Announcements from the last Board Meeting:
· Bids for the erection (tsk!) of the Gazebo are in; work to start by April's
end.
· $250 was approved for landscaping at the Middle School by a local Boy
Scout, Will Sime, as his Eagle Scout project.
· $500 authorized for SOTENI International, to fight aids in Kenya.
· Decision to give five $2500 scholarships this year (includes the $2000
given by Helen Davis in honor and memory of her husband and former
Rotarian Jack).
· Somers Club Don Kennett project: an envelope will go 'round next
week.
· $750 to Heifer Project. All who like can also send checks to E.H./Glast.
PTO.
· DUES ARE DUE...that's right...right now...you know who you are!
Program today...Fireside Chat Reports:
We heard from Bill Secord, Steve Jacoby, Dan Dienst, Mary Martin, and Glen
Peterson on the topics:
1)Most significant Accomplishments; 2)Hartford as a Rising Star; and 3)role of
The 4 Way Test in our lives. Answers were almost exclusively: 1)"Our Families;"
2)both positive and negative views of Hartford, on parking, crime, & Adrien's
Landing progress; and, 3)feeling that corporate & government organizations don't
practice it very much. Lots of good ideas for making it a part of our society's
framework. All in all, good feelings about the meetings as most worthwhile to
have done. Thanks, reporters!
Maker-uppers today:Chuck & Herb, Naples, FL (3); Frank & Ceil,
Newark & Nashua; Don, Ft. Myers(2); Walt(1) and Jackie(3)
Venice-Nokomis,FL; Marcia, on-line(2); Dan (Russell, that
is), Glast; and the whole Golf Committee (once). Way to go, guys 'n gals!
Now, wasn't that great we could get together!..................................Arthur
HIGH GEAR for March 10, 2004
A happy crowd of about 175 Rotarians, their families and friends assembled this
evening at the Marco Polo restaurant. Why? To celebrate the accomplishments of
this year's recipients of the Paul Harris Fellow and Vocational Service
Recognition. The East Hartford club does a lot of things really well, and one of
these is to throw a party! With our President Neal Cunningham wielding
the opening gong, Master of Ceremonies Tom Galvin behind the mike, and
fancy-fingered Don Hallquist at the keyboard, it was readily apparent
that this would be a night of fun and good fellowship. The invocation was
offered by Art Bradbury, but prayer was also inadvertently provided by a
waitress when she dumped a whole bowl of salad in the lap of Emcee Tom, and a
nearby wag was heard to say "Lettuce pray!"
Guests were many on this night, and were welcomed in song by the whole club,
led by librettist Tom Westbrook and a friend. Someone said that only
half the club likes to sing, but that's hard to believe. Now, maybe some of us
have a problem finding the notes, but the ones we sing are sung with gusto!
It would be impossible to capture the clever and witty introductions used by our
presenters, Doug Willett, Moe Belanger, and George Stewart; you had to be
there. Suffice it to say, the awardees and new Paul Harris Fellows Neal
Cunningham, Loretta Dienst, and Dan Larson were soundly and royally
recognized for their achievements in life as they have lived the Rotary motto
"Service Above Self." We really needed a separate program just to keep track of
all those children, siblings and friends who were introduced, but what a
wonderful testimony to the fondness and respect which filled the room for these
people! An additional Paul Harris Fellow Recognition had been made by Lucile
Bailey in honor of nephew John McNaughton; what a nice thing to have
done, Lucile! District Governor Jeff Tager was here to do the
presentation of medallions, pins and certificates.
Although unable to be here in person, former E.H. Rotarian, a Paul Harris Fellow
himself (and, of course, brother of Dan), U.S. Rep. John Larson sent
along greetings, congratulations and commemorative plaques to the awardees. A
classy touch!
Project Chairman Bill Secord presented the Vocational Service Award to
Executive Director of the East Hartford Chamber of Commerce Mary Beth Reid.
How fortunate our town is to have people of Mary Beth's caliber in roles of
leadership!
The Sgt-At-Arms fittingly forgave fines on this occasion, and we were reminded
that:
· The Golf Committee meets next Tuesday, Mar.16, Bill Saunders' home,
7:30.
· Co-hosts should be prepared to report on Fireside Chat discussions next
week, Mar. 17th (and maybe you'd better wear something green), you're the
program!
Evenings such as this do not just happen. They have to be planned, cared about,
worried over, and "brought in" by someone with the talent for organization to
get it done. And that person tonight was Roy Spiller. Well done, Roy, you
did good!
And wasn't it great we could get together!
Arthur
Just like it's supposed to, the month of March was blustery at the Ridge, but
warmer temps and sunny skies gave a strong clue that spring can't be too far
off! Music Man Don Hallquist set the tone, as he always does, for a happy
meeting, and Rev Rog Nicholson thanked the Lord for the talents and service of
the assembled, combined as they are in the spirit of Rotary. The food we were
thankful for was an open-faced turkey sandwich, with squash, gravy, and mixed
veggies. Ginger-cake for dessert.
"Tex" Johnny Shemo, regaled us with western hat and music, signs of the BBBQ
(that's the Big BarBeCue) coming on April 3; collected some checks (it's not too
early to pay at $50 per couple!) and we all tried to protect ourselves from "MuleTrainDriver"
Danny Larson (where on earth did he learn to crack that whip?--is that how he
keeps the Bros John and Tim in line?).
Men’s & Women’s UConn basketball (didja see Doug Willette peeking out from
behind Diana's 2000 pointer BB at half time?) and the price of new cars (Skip
sat with us) were table-topics today. A nice turnout and it was good to see some
of our "snow- birds" returned from Florida, not all of them yet, though. Also,
great to see Johnny Mozzicato back with us. He and Moe Belanger looked like a
couple of bookends out in the hall while we were gathering.
Guests today: Only one, but that was John Clark from the Somers club, who told a
sad tale of their project to raise big-time funds for an ailing member who needs
a liver transplant. Help for this Rotarian, Don Kennett, can be forwarded to the
Somers club at PO Box 2, Somers, CT 06071. Welcome Song was ably led by Ceil
Collins.
Sgt. at Arms Jack Sayre reported only 2 birthdays, but for truly august
Rotarians Pres. Neal Cunningham and Bob Wood. Both asked for, and got, silence.
Announcements:
" Golf Comm.- Tues, Mar.16, Bill Saunders home, 7:30. Mark those calendars!
" Bus trips to NYC for the show, "Mama Mia," and Bosox baseball, both canc.
" Sue Klock asked for FAX nos, from anyone wanting them on the club roster.
" Glen Peterson told of Heifer Project fund-raising at his magnet school;
also, a forum on April 7 to be held at the Baccalaureate High School on Forbes
St.
" Paper back book pick-up happening today. Big haul, a whole pick-up's worth!
New Member Todd Andrews, sponsored by John Shemo, was inducted today. A working
compatriot of John's, Todd grew up in East Hartford, worked for a while on town
grants with Mary Martin, and is enthusiastic about joining us. Welcome, Todd!
Program today featured EHHS's Interact Club. Our club's liaison, Steve Jacoby,
introduced EHHS teacher and advisor, Midge Lenahan. Together with co-chairs
Loren Gold and Jessica Balesano, they told of a very active group (core of about
25, but many more in non-sports time periods) who do things like:volunteering at
Riverside Health Ctr., Soup Kitchen, tree planting (remember, they worked with
us on Hillside Ave?), Food Share, Special Olympics, Thanksgiving baskets, and
upcoming daffodil sales. Community Service is the name of the game, and these
young people are really learning how. Congratulations on fine work!
Make-ups galore from our secretary: Frank & Ceil in Ft. Myers, Sarasota, Tom
River, Washington (D.C., that is), Anaheim, and Evanston; Sayre, Summit, NJ;
Saunders, No. Ft Myers (2); and Blackwood, Enfield. Good job, guys & gals!
Remember, no noon meeting next week...Paul Harris Dinner in the evening.
Nice we could get
together..................................................................Arthur
HIGH GEAR for February 25, 2004
Back at the RIDGE, Pres. Neal opened our meeting and Mike Knepp invoked the
blessings of the Almighty on our gathering. Today's meal in remembrance of Ash
Wednesday was white fish, probably cod and very good. Attention food
committee: People at our table thought it was good enough to have more often.
Guests: Art Bradbury introduced Mark S., a minister and Past President of a
Minnesota club. Dan Dienst was awakened to introduce Leo Christmas who
introduced Robert Grenus and Bob Brown introduced District President-Elect Dick
Seidman who gave us a quick pep-talk. Pat Porteus led the Welcome Song, looking
perky and alive, unlike some of her male song-leaders.
John Shemo a/k/a/ Johnny Dangerously a/k/a Ride 'Em Cowboy Johnny D. distributed
more of those good looking invitations to the Texas Barbecue slated for April 3,
2004 starting at 6:00 P.M. in Cowboy Uniform. Sign up early!
Reminder - The Paul Harris dinner is set for March 10, 2004 at Marco Polo,
probably 6 P.M. - sign up now and pay Roy Spiller next week.
Carol Krantz reminds of the Broadway trip on May 22nd . For those who wish to
do the trip without the show, the bus trip ONLY will get you down and back for
$30.00 per person.
Between President Neal and Leo Christmas, it was confirmed that the paperback
books for overseas shipment to our Troops will be next week. Bring them with
you
Sue Klock reminded everyone that if getting your High Gear by email is enough,
we will stop the U.S.Mail delivery and save the cost, etc. Let Sue know.
SGT/ARMS Jack Ghagan announced a birthday for Dave Amberg and opined that if a
horse was that old, you'd shoot him! Hmmmm. Sorry, Dave. Also anniversary
donations to the Scholarship Fund from Carmen Piscatello and Gerry Brady (41st
and 39th respectively). An anniversary for Dan Coulom. Also that John
Mozzicato is getting out of the convalescent home this Friday (Yea for John!).
Roy Spiller auctioned off a large bottle of Crown Royal donated by George
Agnelli. Leo Christmas paid $50.00 and took it home. President Neal said that
raffling off liquor might be a good fundraiser. So, George, if every week or so
you would bring in a king-sized bottle of Dewars or Stolichnaya or other good
booze (your choice, George), Roy would surely be happy to do the auction and
raise some more money for the Club for the Club, George! Is that okay, Pres.
Neal? Did I get it right?
MAKE-UPS: Fireside Chats: Margaret Lacroix, Steve Jacoby, Art Bradbury, Carol
Krantz, Dean Roland, George Schoen, Bob Wood, Peter Klock, Sue Klock (Steve
Jacoby, Co-Host). WDOUG Willett (3) District Meeting, Fireside Chat, Niantic;
Roy Spiller, Rockville; Steve Jacoby, Manchester; Lionel Lessard (2)
Rockville-Vernon; Tom Galvin, Manchester. And Guess What? Chuck Clarke and
Herb Tischofer, last making up in Naples, Italy, have at last returned to the
U.S. of A. and now have three more make-ups - in Florida. Can you believe it?
Naples, Florida! What a coincidence!
Marcia Leclerc introduced our speaker, Courtney Febbroriello, author of the
recently published Wife of the Chef. Courtney and her husband have owned
and operated Metro Bis in Simsbury since August 1998. She recounted a
whole host of humorous and not-so-funny tales of life at Metro Bis. She
is a charming, witty speaker who got many laughs telling her tales of the
hysteria of running a restaurant.
GWB
HIGH GEAR for February 18, 2004
Our meeting today was at the South Congregational Church where once again we
were blessed to have such a good place for an "away from home" meeting. One
might suspect that one or possibly two of our members must be members of this
Congregation in order for us to have this privilege.
Pres. Neal opened our meeting and Gil Wishart asked for the blessings of the
Almighty on our gathering.
John Shemo a/k/a/ Johnny Dangerously a/k/a Ride 'Em Cowboy Johnny D. passed out
'er distributed some of the best-looking and cleverest invitations we have ever
seen at Rotary. If you were not present at the meeting, call John and see if he
has any extras to bring to the next meeting. The event, Texas Barbecue, will be
on April 3, 2004 starting at 6:00 P.M. in some sort of Western (read that
Cowboy) attire (but no horses or cows). Sign up early! Where, the Ridge? Try
there first.
Reminder - The Paul Harris dinner is set for March 10, 2004 at Marco Polo,
probably 6 P.M. - more later.
Bill Leone (subbing for Jack Ghagan) collected fines from Don Hallquist (a bad
weather forecast ?); George Stewart paid $5.00 , since George Agnelli didn't
charge him for "cleaning his clock"; Bill himself (34th Rotary Anniversary)
and Bill noted today's special birthday event FOUR IN ONE DAY - For Don Cramer,
Dan Russell, Dick McCarthy and John McNaughton. All but John McN. begged off
the birthday song, but John McN. asked for the B-Song to be sung by all members
present under 60. Believe it or not, there were nine singers who did a
creditable job. At their ages, they should!
Pres. Neal and Leo Christmas announced that the paperbacks for overseas shipment
will be picked up next week.
Hizzoner Herb Barall won the Raffle!
MAKE-UPS: Dick McCarthy (2 -Saratoga Sunrise, FL); Bill Saunders (N.Ft.Myers,
FL); Dee Blackwood (2 -Enfield); Jim Watts (East Windsor) Also - David
Holmes, Leo Christmas, Tom Westbrook, Bob Brown, Neal Cunningham and Mary
Martin (Credit for meeting with Gazebo committee) - Also Roy Spiller, Jack
Sayre, Dan Dienst, Dave Amberg, George Stewart, Bill Leone and Don Cramer
(Fireside Chats). Also Dan Dienst paid a fine because his wife, Loretta, forgot
to put his Rotary pin on his sweater. Oh Dear, Dear! This heartrending tale
brought a veritable flood of tears in several parts of the room.
No news this week from our travelers in Italy. Maybe they're skipping or maybe
the mail is slower by boat….
Twelve (12) dues are still outstanding.
When Pres. Neal needed a program, he knew whom to ask. PDG George Stewart gave
us what amounted to a genial information discussion complete with a low-key test
of our knowledge of Rotary and some important dates. It was fun, informative
and different. Thanks to George, who never needs a script when it comes to
Rotary.
GWB
HIGH GEAR for February 11, 2004
Pres. Neal gonged us to order at the appointed time, and Dan Russell invoked the blessings of the Almighty on our gathering.
Pat Andrews was the guest of John Shemo. I believe there was one more outstanding guest who may have been introduced by an equally outstanding member Rotarian, but if that happened, I didn’t get it. But welcome our Guest(s) we did, under the stirring leadership of Mike Knepp. Stirring it was. Mike flapped his arms a lot, but that was all, since he didn’t know the music or the words! Time to fix that. How about a solo next week, Mike? Thanks to the Almighty again, this time for Don Hallquist.
SGT/ARMS Jack Ghagan announced a birthday for Sue Klock, and we sang for Sue. Also Dr. Tom Galvin had a 21st Rotary anniversary – Larry Hangland celebrating birthdays of grandson and granddaughter - and Art Bradbury celebrating a new great grandson.
Bill Secord reminded us that if you can’t make the assigned Fireside Chat date, call Bill for a more convenient date (860-295-0725).
P.S. Our second guest turned out to be District President-Elect Dick Seidman, an old attorney friend of mine. I didn’t see him till I checked with President Neal after the meeting on what I should write about, our speaker having bombed out on us at the last minute. As far as what to write about, Pres. Neal didn’t give a hoot EXCEPT TO REMIND THE CLUB THAT THE MEETING NEXT WEEK IS AT THE SOUTH CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH!!!
Board of Directors - meeting at 7:00 P.M. Monday, February 16, 2004 at Dan Larson’s office, 111 Main Street, E.H.
Carol Krantz has 55 reserved first or third baseline grandstand tickets for sale for Red Sox-Yankees at Fenway Sept. 25th ($105.00 per ticket and Red Sox-Phillies at Fenway June 26th ($85.00 per ticket). She must sell all (or pay for them all anyway!). The catch is that anyone buying one or more tickets must buy a duplicate set for both games. A pretty good deal for sports fans and their kids, friends, etc. These are sellout games. The bus ride is included. She has to make a commitment and pay for them next week! So get your decision made now. Call Carol (860-633-0035) to reserve.
Art Bradbury announced that the Group Study Exchange Group will be arriving around April 30th . We need host families for 5 people, the Rotarian leader and 4 non-Rotarians. Call Pres. Neal if you can volunteer as a host. The Club committed for the program, so…..
Peg and Roy Spiller are sponsoring a dinner on March 7th for the 1st Republican District (or was it 1st Democrat District?) Regardless - they are great people no matter how they think! So call them for reservations!
MAKE-UPS: Tom Galvin (Manchester, CT. - 2); Jim Sheehan (Anna Marie Island, FL) and not one darn word from our friends in Italy – Walt Kupchunos (Venice) and Herb Tischofer and Chuck Clark (Naples). Hope they didn’t fall off a gondola or something.
NO SPEAKER TODAY.
GWB
HIGH GEAR for February 4, 2004
President Neal opened the meeting, calling upon George Schoen for a very
thoughtful invocation. Chicken Cordon Bleu for lunch and chocolate cake squares
for dessert.
No guests, but we sang anyway (to welcome ourselves with Don H. keeping us in
tune - more or less - since I realized that two at my table had the words right
but sang (?) an entirely different melody - Don can only do so much.).
SGT/ARMS Jack Ghagan reported reasonably strong winnings from Steve Tamiso, John
Mozzicato and Jim Reik (birthdays) and Spurgeon Stokes, Roy Spiller and Andy
Audreo (anniversaries).
President Neal announced:
1. Wine and cheese - on hold; date to be announced.
2. "Call list" needs some fine tuning; more to follow.
3. Ski trip next week for the "Schussers".
4. Art Auction February 28, 2004 at Marriott Hotel, Rocky Hill,
$10.00/person.
5. Thanks from Town of East Hartford (Mary Martin) and Roy Spiller (Bell
Ringers).
6. Darlene Roberts got her "real badge" - She's no longer a "newie".
Reports:
Bill Leone - a year end accounting for the Scholarship Funds:
Brewer fund - started with $20,000, not up to $20,312.36 (that does not take
into account the large dip the fund took a year or two ago like everything
else- The fund is back again over the base line!)
Scholarship Fund - now up to $124,660.81, a gain over last report of $17,917.04,
thus keeping pace with the earnings of similar facilities.
Bill asked for a member volunteer to serve on the Investment Advisory
Committee. Any takers? Bill needs the help of this committee, so give him a
call if you can serve.
Bill Secord - reminded us of the Fireside Chat dates - February 10, 12, 16, 19,
23 and 26. The Host for each date Frank Collins, Margaret La Croix, Moe
Belanger, Tom Galvin, Neal Cunningham and Dan Larson respectively. Check the
chart and if you can't attend on your assigned date, call Bill S. (295-0725) and
work out an alternate date. Bill also needs Vocational Service nominees by next
meeting, February 11, 2004.
Pat Porteus introduced our speaker today on the subject of mental health,
Heather MacDonald. Heather is both a patient and counselor in the program
helping many people under the auspices of the Connecticut Mental Health
Department. This was a presentation by a woman who truly "had the course" and
is a believer - noting that 20 years ago, no one was recovering from mental
illness - now up to 60% recover. The keys: Hope from the support of others; a
place to go for help; work shops with other to gain strength and purpose;
personal responsibility - only the patient really knows what's working in
medications; recognition that people with mental health symptoms tend to isolate
themselves. The support of others with problems and the counselors are critical
to helping them get out of isolation, gain hope and support and improve.
Heather said they always need volunteers for this non-profit organization, to
help give the support, so as many as can recover are given the chance. Call Pat
to make the contact if you're interested.
Heather quietly observed that most people are a little wacky anyway - One wag
was overheard to mutter that she came to the right place to find a ton of
examples. This was a surprisingly interesting presentation.
Make-ups: Steve Jacoby (2 - New Britain and Rutland, VT) how mundane! Lionel
Lessard (2 Rockville) how mundane!) but now credit for our travelers to Italy;
Walt Kupchunos (3 - Venice) and Herb Tischofer and Chuck Clarke (3 each - Bay of
Naples). Wow! - Keep those cards coming from these overseas travelers!
GWB
HIGH GEAR for January 21, 2004
Wednesday, January 21st, 2004-the third meeting of the new
year
The day was bright and sunny, the temperature in the mid 20's, the breeze light,
so that it felt almost balmy outside, especially when compared with some of our
recent days. Following the ringing of the bell, the Rotary Song, the Salute to
the Flag, Medallion-less President Neal offered a terse, but fitting,
invocation. He was accosted almost immediately by a vigilant Bill Leone,
Sergeant-at-Arms. Ah, yes, wine and cheese will be the order of the day
soon-February 11th to be exact. We who have served as President have all been
there, done that. The medallion really looked good on Neal after he fished it
out of the depths of his briefcase.
Lunch menu: Krause's famous chicken pot pie, apparently a club favorite,
accompanied by a tossed salad, and followed by a blueberry square topped with
whipped cream. It was a delicious multi-calorie meal,
with many, many grams of fat.
Our only guest today was Stephanie Mauri, who works with Marcia Leclerc.
Ceil Collins led us in the Welcome Song. Sergeant-at-Arms Bill Leone reported
that there were many unidentified individuals today, including new member Mike
Knepp, who pleaded that he'd never been given a badge. Bill went after person
responsible for getting badges, but she'd already left. Hmmm. Money came in
from John Mozzicato and Jack Ghagan, for a picture in the paper, from Glenn
Peterson, in recognition of the Town Council's approval of the purchase of land
for another magnet school. Dan Russell paid for a first wedding anniversary,
and for another year of being officially cancer free. Roy Spiller paid $1
because the First District Democrats are honoring Peg and him as Volunteers of
the Year. Would have paid more had it been the Republicans. Doug Willett
mumbled something about a bigger fine, a lesser award. Doug Willett paid for a
December birthday, Steve Jacoby paid for everyone under 55 to sing Happy
Birthday to him, and Tom Westbrook paid very handsomely for the entire club to
serenade him for the same reason. His new number is a significant one.
We will collect paperback books, to be sent to the troops overseas, on
February 18th. The Mohican Sun trip has been canceled because of a lack of
interest. There are still 14 seats available for the "Mama Mia" trip. Contact
Carol Krantz. Bill Secord passed out Fireside Chat assignments and schedules:
February 10, 12, 16, 19, 23, and 26. He needs a co-host for each group:
volunteer. President Neal said that we'd had a holiday greeting card and a note
of thanks from Anna, one of our scholarship recipients who is doing A- work at
George Washington University. When she's home she works part time for George
Agnelli. The Board met Monday evening. Funds have been donated to Interval
House ($250) and the Lavender Hill Project in South Africa ($500). The raffle
was won by Doug Willett who quietly turned the money back to the club.
Marcia Leclerc introduced our speaker, Eileen Faust, Senior Citizens Program
Supervisor. In some ways it seemed that Eileen was preaching to the choir. We
have two senior centers in East Hartford for our 13,000 senior citizens. We
have the largest percentage of seniors, population-wise, of all the towns
immediately surrounding Hartford. Our Department of Social Services wants to
help us oldsters to live our lives as healthily as possible for as long as
possible. Sounds good. Eileen handed out copies of the monthly newsletter, the
"Golden Ager" and also copies of the department's Service Directory. She noted
that it is less costly for the State of Connecticut to keep people in their
homes rather than in a nursing home. Falls are a major concern for the elderly;
50% of them are preventable. A recently formed group, Friends of Senior
Centers, is headed by Marcia Leclerc. It raises funds and seeks grants to
supplement the fund which the department already gets from the town. Some of
our club expertise may be called upon in the future. Eventually a new combined
senior center, purpose built, rather than a couple of old schools, would be
desirable. Eileen gave us a concise, short presentation.
We closed with one verse of America the Beautiful. Makeups: Frank and Ceil
Collins: Enfield, Connecticut, and Cambridge, Maryland. It was good to be
together.
------ Dan Russell
HIGH GEAR for January 14, 2004 -
the second meeting of the new year
If it were not for the blue sky and bright sunshine, today could have been
considered Eskimo weather-the outside temperature reading was about 6 degrees.
Inside, warmth and conviviality. Reverend Ted Mosebach offered the invocation,
asking that we count our many blessings. Lunch was a mini-banquet-roast beef,
roasted potatoes, mixed vegetables and chocolate cake. Need many calories to
keep warm!
Sue Klock distributed new rosters-not easy to keep abreast of those pesky
typos. Perhaps this will become a weekly happening. Corrections to last weeks
High Gear: the Broadway Trip for "Mama Mia" is May 22nd, the Paul Harris Awards
Dinner is March 10th, and the District Conference is probably late April rather
than early May, although the current DG's newsletter doesn't seem to pinpoint
the date, based on a skimming scan.
This editor noticed that Don Cramer, who owns a home in Florida, was in
attendance. Report was that he was on his way to Maine. Apparently deep cold
affects some individuals peculiarly.
Only guest: Reverend Ron Cox, member of the Rocky Hill-Wethersfield Club, a
Paul Harris Fellow. Tom Galvin led in the Welcome Song, in a manner befitting
the personality of an extrovert extraordinaire. Jack Sayre was
Sergeant-at-Arms: He collected from Dave Amberg because Notre Dame won ($1, not
very much), from Dan Firestone for a $33rd anniversary, from Bill Saunders who
said that he and his wife were in the centerfold of Sports Illustrated (have to
get a haircut to see that), a buck from Dave Holmes for guilt, and $5 Happy
Dollars from Tom Galvin because Leo Christmas didn't do any work on the
Governor's cottage.
Announcements for the good of the Club: We received a letter of thanks for
working a water station for the Greater Hartford Marathon, which has been picked
by one of the Runners' Magazines as the Marathon of the Year in New England.
Fireside Chats will be held in February, the format has been streamlined (no
long autobiographies), no evening is a basketball evening. We need three more
sponsors for meeting sites. Jim Fallon announced that Melody Currey, an
outstanding woman and one of our State Legislators, is home recuperating from
surgery. The idea of collecting paperback books for shipment overseas to
service personnel, as announced by Leo Christmas last week, has had a good step
forward. Lieutenant Governor Jody Rell has arranged for shipping "stuff" - it
just needs to be dropped off at the State Armory. We'll coordinate our stuff,
get it to the Ridge. Ceil Collins suggested that we get an announcement on
Community Television, with a collection date. Sign-up sheets for the Broadway
Show "Mama Mia" and the Casino were circulated.
Jim Fallon introduced our speakers, Mitsey Baker, Penny Brice and Scott
Chadwick, all representing the School-Business Partnership. We heard a lot of
statistics and history. The Partnership has grown out of a getting together of
the Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Education, hoping to better prepare
students for the after school, after graduation workforce. The Partnership,
which now has tax exempt status, injects business people into the lives and
classrooms of students, beginning with the fourth grade. The kids learn what
various professions are all about, and some of them end up, as high school
students, doing internships with some major corporations. Involvement
opportunities include Community Day and Career Day. The Partnership, which was
presented with a $14,000 Rotary Grant, is planning to develop a school wide
speakers bureau data base, to be used as a resource for our entire school
system. Volunteer, and you could find yourself for a couple of hours talking
about and fielding questions regarding your own area of expertise in front of a
group of school kids. That could be very rewarding. Other facets of the School
Business Partnership include a mentoring program, grants to teachers for special
programs not covered by the Board of Education budget, and coordination of a
Community Day to be held at Pratt & Whitney. This program is one way of
changing the lives of our town's children, for the better, significantly. Our
support is well placed. Apparently other towns have similar programs, but ours,
having received national recognition, is considered one of the best.
Make-ups: Skip Guillemette at Manchester, Jorge Gonzalez at Enfield, Frank
and Ceil Collins, Nashua, New Hampshire (New England PETS) and Cooperstown, New
York, an 80th Anniversary Celebration.
Good to be together.
-------- Dan Russell
HIGH GEAR for January 7, 2004 -the
first meeting of the new year
Well, it's been just about eight months since this editor sat at the
inputting keyboard to make a matter of record the matters of the meeting of
this day. It seemed like the first day of winter, in some ways, since the
temperature was well below freezing and the wind was sharp, all in much contrast
to the unseasonable weather which we have been enjoying. President Neal rang
the first bell of the new year, we came to order, and, following the usual
singing and pledge to the flag, Roger Nicholson offered a fitting invocation,
ending with plea for a blessing on the cause of Rotary.
Today's menu: a salad of mixed greens, including slightly frozen iceberg
lettuce, over which had been doused an authoritative Italian style dressing. The
main course was penne with a spicy tomato sauce (John McNaughton dubbed it
risqu¾) with generous chunks of hot Italian sausage. Dessert was an
apple-raisin concoction under filo pastry and whipped cream. It all went well
with the weather.
President Neal moved things along expeditiously, ringing the bell again
before spoons had hardly touched the whipped cream. Guests: Major Ron Freiert
of Huntingdon, Virginia, father-in-law of our own Michael Knepp. The welcome
song was led by Jim Watts.
Smiling Bill Leone is our Sergeant-at-Arms for the month. Those attorneys
really like to extract dollars from any source. Sue Klock paid for a whole
series of typographic, gremlinesque driven errors in the latest Club
Directory-she promised that it would be brought up to date very soon, with
correct email addresses. She truly has done a wonderful job; proofreading is
almost a lost skill. Dan Coulom paid for a disclaimer that he had nothing to do
with the explosion at United Technologies. Four anniversaries: Don Hallquist,
39 years, Moe Belanger, 35 years, Peter Klock, 14 years, George Stewart, 40
years of perfect attendance. Birthdays: Jim Shay, Nick Cecere--they requested
a serenade by Table #1. They could have gotten better music for less money.
And Bill fined three members, one a banker, one an attorney, one just
inattentive, who are not yet aware of which year this is. The raffle was won
by Dick McCarthy.
Today was a club assembly, replete with questions, comments and suggestions
from the floor. These will be reported more or less in the order in which they
occurred.
Leo Christmas announced that his wife is involved with a project to collect
paperback books for sending overseas to our troops. Books and transportation
and packing assistance needed.
The Scholarship Committee will give its annual report when the numbers from the
financial institutions become available.
Mary Martin reported that bids have been received on the gazebo. Both were well
under the town's budgeted amount of $37,200. The lowest bid, $20,090, is being
reviewed for compliance with the bid plans and specifications.
Upcoming events:
Mohegan Sun, Friday, January 30th: 5:30 PM bus from the Ridge, returning about
midnight. Cost: $16 per person. This cost includes a $20 credit at the
casino. Dan Larson wanted to know if we could just take the money and not go.
International Night: a barbecue, April 3rd.
Broadway Show: May 22nd, matinée, "Mama Mia," center orchestra seats, $130
per person, bus leaves 7:30 AM from East Hartford, only 54 tickets available,
$25 deposit needed ASAP. Carol Krantz is the person to contact, and will
collect the money.
Paul Harris Awards Night: March 10th.
Fireside Chats: during the month of February, times and places to be announced.
District Conference will be April 23-25 in Saratoga Springs, NY.
Group Study Exchange Teams: two will be in the district, mid April to mid
May. Interested in hosting a team member? Let Neal know. We are not committed
to a week as yet.
Family of Rotary: a new mandatory committee, designed to involve more
persons in our purposes. East Hartford already does what the committee will be
designed to accomplish. All that is needed is a chairperson.
Baseball: Carol Krantz has two possible Red Sox -Yankee games, July and
September. Express your interest.
Bluebird Houses: want to build some? Kits are available from the State of
Connecticut. This will be referred to the new Family of Rotary Committee.
International Project: the Board has committed to contributing to the
College in South Africa, subject of a program a number of months ago. Others
ideas might be discussed at Fireside Chats.
The January 19th Board Meeting will be at the home of Margaret LaCroix,
since the Cultural Center will be closed.
President Neal read two notes of appreciation, from our wait staff, for the
Christmas checks. We ended the meeting at 1: 15 PM. Makeups: Roy Spiller and
Michael Knepp, Rockville; Frank and Ceil Collins: Tom River, New Jersey,
Pasadena, California (2) and Newton, Connecticut.
HIGH GEAR for December 31, 2003
The December 31, 2003, meeting was called to order by President Neal Cunningham. Although the calendar said it was New Year’s Eve, the weather was more like spring.
Dave Amberg led a rather small crowd in prayer. Lunch was a delicious open-faced turkey sandwich, coleslaw, mashed potatoes, pound cake and sherbet. All was preceded by a wine and cheese reception.
Guests were Charlotte Bradbury and Jay Stewart, who where welcomed by Pat Porteus’ enthusiastic rendition of the welcome song.
John Mozzicato was welcomed back with cheers. He expressed heartfelt thanks for all the support during his illness. He shared that people at the hospital thought he was some politician with all the cards he received!
Sergeant-at-Arms Marcia LeClerc was gentle today but did fine John Mozzicato for returning to Rotary. Dan Larson will soon be a grandpa for the first time, Larry Churchill was in the New York Times and George Agnelli thought he might have been seen at the UConn game.
Roy Spiller thanked the 46 Rotarians who signed up to ring the bell for the Salvation Army. The amount raised was down this year because of a Saturday snowstorm. Some was made up with ringing on two Fridays. $2935 was raised this year, down $735 from last year. The 55 hours of ringing averaged $53.36 per hour. Ringers also included 12 non-Rotarians. Jack Sayre signed up to ring five times! The 15-year-total is $36,274 and 904 hours. Next year, we will ring at the east entrance to Stop and Shop and at the Silver Lane Shop Rite.
Special thanks to Sue and Helen from Krause Catering. A check was presented to both.
Jack Ghagan won the raffle.
Please Note
The January 7, 2004 meeting will be a Club Assembly.
High Gear Editor (Dec.'03) Margaret LaCroix
HIGH GEAR for December 17, 2003
The December 17, 2003 meeting was called to order by President Neal Cunningham. Dan Firestone gave his annual holiday prayer. Lunch was a lovely buffet complete with ham, turkey and lasagna. Holiday roll was the dessert.
The welcome song was led by Walt Kupchunos, as we welcomed Stephanie Mauri, Tom Blackwood, Bob Dugger (Glastonbury Rotary) Jan Sayre and Todd Andrews.
Marcia LeClerc reported a number of anniversaries, including Jack Sayre’s 23 years, Don Cramer’s 25 years, Jim Fallon and Dee Blackwood each at 11 years and Jim Shay at 10 years. Birthdays were celebrated by Dan Larson and Walt Kupchunos.
Dan Firestone (president elect) announced that Bill Secord is the Sergeant-At-Arms representative for the 2004-05 Board of Directors.
President Neal announced that e-mail addresses would now be published with the address/telephone number list. For those who wish to opt out of having their e-mail address included, please see Sue Klock.*
The Concession Stand raised $5268.83. Thanks to all who helped.
$137 was raised for the Rotary International Rose Parade float which will feature our own Frank and Ceil Collins. Thanks to all who contributed.
The raffle was won by Roger Nicholson.
Make-Ups: Herb Tischofer (2) Naples, Florida
Carol Krantz reported that about $1900 was raised in the fruit sale. About 50 percent of the club participated and sold 450 cases. The highest seller was George Agnelli with 46 cases. Thanks to all who sold and loaded fruit.
Jim Fallon introduced the East Hartford High School students from the Chamber Orchestra and Next Edition who provided a heartwarming performance. Always a special treat.
No meeting next week (Christmas Eve).
Wishing you all a happy and healthy 2004!
Margaret LaCroix
HIGH GEAR for December 10, 2003
The December 10, 2003 meeting was called to order by President Neal. Gil Wishart
provided a thoughtful prayer and we were treated to lunch of Swedish meatballs,
mashed potatoes, carrots and bread pudding for dessert. Thanks to the talents of
Don Hallquist, Christmas carols permeated the room.
Sergeant-At-Arms Report
Marcia LeClerc reported that Larry Frazier paid for having a new granddaughter
and John Shemo was on the Brad Davis Show. Carol Krantz, Bill Saunders and
Jackie Danise celebrated birthdays.
Medical Report
John Mozzicato is home!
Steve Jacoby reported that the Holiday Fest activities were postponed by the
snowstorm and will be rescheduled, including the police identification program
on April 3, 2004.
The East Hartford YMCA invites Rotarians to a holiday luncheon on December 13
from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at South Congregational Church. Please bring
non-perishable food items if you attend.
George Stewart won the raffle.
Carol Krantz reported that fruit sales were disappointing. Pick up is scheduled
for Saturday, December 13, 2003 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. behind the old
Dunkin Donuts (Nathan's) in the Putnam Plaza.
Make-Ups: Herb Tischoffer- Naples Bay; Don Cramer-eClub; Frank and Ceil Collins-
Troy and Rochester, NY; Lugano. Switzerland; Houston, TX; and Cairo, Egypt.
Bill Saunders asked flu hotline volunteers to consider volunteering in December
in light of the current Flu Frenzy.
From Bill and Bev Saunders
Our thanks to the Club for the cards, phone calls and expressions of sympathy in
the loss of my mother.
The annual meeting of the Rotary Club of East Hartford followed. The following
slate was adopted for next year: (Complete minutes of the annual meeting will
be filed separately)
Dan Firestone President
Carol Krantz President-elect
Dan Larson Secretary
Bill Saunders Treasurer
Sue Klock Director
Margaret LaCroix Director
George Schoen Director
Don't miss the holiday program next week.
Margaret LaCroix
HIGH GEAR for December 3, 2003
December 3, 2003 was frosty outside but friendship and good will warmed the
holiday party. 98 Rotarians and significant others joined in the festivities
which included shrimp, chicken and prime rib dinners topped off with ice cream
roll. The music was somewhat of a topic, as Don Hallquist's battery was not
charged for his keyboard. Nonetheless, we thank him for always sharing his time
and talent to make our meetings and parties more festive!
Rev. Roger Nicholson led us in prayer. Marcia LeClerc noted there would not be a
sergeant-at-arms report in the spirit of the holiday.
John Mozzicato was missed at the event, but not to worry, he is expected to be
home next week although he still has some recovering to do.
Roy Spiller announced the 2003-04 Paul Harris Award Winners:
Neal Cunningham
Dan Larson
Loretta Dienst
Congratulations to all!
Spiller also asked for volunteers for ringing the bell for the Salvation Army
for December 20 from 3:00 to 6:00 pm.
There are rooms available for the annual ski trip on February 9 to 11, 2004.
Call Roy Spiller for details.
President Neal thanked all Rotarians and their family and friends who worked the
concession stand this past football season.
A Jeep-load of necessary items was collected at the party for donation to the
East Hartford Homeless Shelter. Thanks to all!
Special Note:
Notice is hereby given that the annual meeting of the Rotary Club of East
Hartford will be held on Wednesday, December 10, 2003 at 12:15 pm. at the
Veteran's Memorial Clubhouse for the purpose of electing officers and directors
and for such other business as may legally come before the meeting.
Health Alert
The flu has hit Connecticut. It is not too late to protect yourself from what
may be a very bad strain of flu. Call the American Lung Association of CT flu
hotline at 1-888-NO TO FLU to find a clinic near you. Also, if you are a flu
hotline volunteer, please consider signing up for time slots in December. The
hotline is very busy. Thanks!
HIGH GEAR for November 26, 2003
A wonderful Fall day -weather, fellowship, and seasonal Thankfulness- greeted us
as we entered the Ridge for our annual Thanksgiving meeting. Dean Rowland and
Kathy McCabe presented us with a bountiful table of wine, cheeses, crackers,
fruit, and pepperoni. What more could you ask for!!!!!! Don Hallquist
highlighted our entrance to the main dining room with the great seasonal hymn
"We gather together to ask the Lord's Blessing". How appropriate for our great
club. Thanks. Don! Pres. Neal called us to order, and the Rev. Bill Flynn gave
us a thoughtful invocation in which he thanked our Lord for all our gifts, and
asked that we show gratitude through the services we can provide. A tasty meal
of Chicken Cordon Bleu, sweet potatoes and apple, green beans, and chocolate
mousse, was promptly served.
Upon reconvening the meeting, Pres. Neal asked for the introduction of guests.
Several guests were introduced with most notable being former member Rich
O'Brien, and Dan Larson's daughter, Debby, a junior at the University of
Connecticut's School of Education. Dan referred to Debby as the family athlete
as she was South Windsor's female athlete of the year in her senior year in high
school. The Welcome Song was aptly led by Nick Cecere with Don at the
keyboard. Sgt at Arms fill in, Dan Larson reported only two fines, both Rotary
anniversaries - George Schoen and Bob Richmond.
The following were the announcements for the day!!
1. Dan Larson asked for help on the 13th for the fruit distribution. Call him
if you can help. Also, next Wednesday will be the last day for fruit orders.
Send them to or call Carol Krantz.
2. Frank Collins got off the Phone with our Rotary International President at
12:10 PM. He wished our club a Happy Thanksgiving.
3. Dick McCarthy announced that Bill Saunder's Mom passed away in Johnsonburg,
Pennsylvania, on Monday. Services will be held this weekend in Pa., and Bill
will be with us next Wednesday.
4. Jack Ghagan reported on John Mozzicato's well being. He is progressing and
hopes to be out of The Glastonbury Health Center sometime next week. His room #
is 200, and his phone # is 652-4956.
5. Pres. Neal reported that he had received two thank-you notes for Rotary
gifts, one from the American Lung Association for a gift of $500, and the other
from Riverfront Recapture for $250. He also announced that we received about
$5000 for our efforts at the football concession stand.
6. Just a reminder that our Holiday party in next Wednesday evening at Adams
Mill. Our charity of choice is gifts for the residents the homeless shelter in
East Hartford.
7. And finally - the raffle was won by Larry Churchill - who else has a
chance??
Jim Fallon introduced our Thanksgiving Speaker, The Reverend Ted Mosebach. Jim
introduced Ted as someone who truly cares about East Hartford. Ted started his
talk on a very light vein with several stories from the far distant past!!! He
then quoted the 100th Psalm "Make a Joyful noise unto the Lord! Give thanks to
him for the Lord is good and his steadfast love lasts forever." He talked about
the opposite of "Thanksgiving" which would probably be "complaining". There
might be a lot to complain about, but when put in its proper perspective, we
should be thankful for all we have. We might pay high taxes, but these enable
us to live in the greatest country in the world. We should all be thankful for
what we have - family. friends, our home, our community, and all else we enjoy
in this time and place!
Happy Thanksgiving -Enjoy, and count your blessings.
Bob Wood - filling in for Bill Secord
HIGH GEAR for November 19, 2003
Outside, the drizzle and chill of mid-fall; inside, sweetness and light. The fellowship of Rotary easily overcame the pre-winter gloom as Roger Nicholson gave thanks for the opportunities Rotary provides us for service above self. A hardy lunch of stuffed chicken breast, creamed cauliflower, and mashed potatoes culminated with bowls of rice pudding. Chuck Clarke introduced guest Pat Danehy, while George Agnelli withstood withering skepticism of his crooning ability to lead a rousing rendition of the Welcome Song. Sergeant-at-Arms Dan Dienst recited a litany of fines for the day: Dan Russell paid for yet another new car. We sang the birthday song for what might have been Staci Brazalovich’s 21st birthday. Glenn Peterson paid for nine years of wedded bliss. Steve Bates paid for a surprising Giant’s touchdown. Scotty Howat contributed $1.00 a year for all 84 of his youth. Dave Amber paid for his picture in The Habitat News. And Jim Fallon secretly slipped Dan a dollar for a similar transgression (he tries to keep out of the newspapers).
Jack Ghagan provided the club with an update on John Mozzicato. John has had something of a setback and is undergoing surgery again today; but he greatly appreciates the outpouring of friendship he has received from members of the club. After today he can be visited at the Glastonbury Health Care Center, 1175 Hebron Avenue, Room 273b, phone 860-659-6262.
Many make-ups: Dee Blackwood at Enfield; Don Cramer at Fort Myers Beach; Skip Guillemette at some anonymous club with a forged signature; and Jim Sheehan, Neal Cunningham, and Steve Jacoby at the Rotary Foundation dinner. President Neal won the raffle—which prize he magnanimously turned over to Michael Knepp for the Salvation Army. Steve Jacoby reminded everyone of the need for volunteers to help run the upcoming children identification booth—more details coming. Next week is our traditional Thanksgiving Rotary meeting—wine and cheese provided beforehand.
Margaret LaCroix again reminded us of the Rotary Holiday Party—Wednesday, December 3, at Adam’s Mill. Cocktails at 6 pm; dinner at 7 pm. Everyone must pay Margaret in advance—no payment at the door. She will not be present at next week’s regular meeting, so checks should be sent to: Margaret LaCroix at 115 Hawthorne Mead Drive, Glastonbury, CT 06033. Please make checks out to the East Hartford Rotary Club. Dinner choices are chicken stuffed with broccoli and cheddar cheese, baked stuffed shrimp, or prime rib. The cost is $37.50—which includes wine at the tables. The charity supported by the holiday party this year is the East Hartford homeless shelter. We should consider taking gifts of the following type for our donations: toiletries; bath robes; slippers; gift certificates in small denominations for such establishments as CVS, Target, McDonald’s, or Big Y; disposable diapers; school supplies; sanitary napkins/tampons; pajamas; or the traditional toys.
Program: Jim Fallon did NOT introduce our speaker, Dr. Tom Galvin. It remains unclear if that irregularity had been secretly manipulated by Past President Tom or not. Dr. Tom brought the club up to speed on “progress” in dental medicine over the past ten years. His theme—“It’s a different world.” Some of the latest research has linked gum disease to heart disease, a promising discovery that might lead to more effective treatment of heart disease and arteriosclerosis. As medications proliferate throughout an older population, it has become more difficult to keep track of possible medical interactions and the need for precautions during office treatments. New amalgams for fillings have reduced the use of mercury, but as a result fillings have become less durable. Dr. Tom offered his own mental stability as proof that mercury had probably not been that dangerous (except in waste water—don’t ask). Dental cosmetics such as bleaching and veneers have become popular, although insurance still does not pay for such treatments.
UConn’s dental school stands #1 academically and is comparatively reasonably priced ($25,000 a year for four years compared to $60,000 a year for a school like Tufts). But the number of dentists coming out of dental school is falling, partly due to the closing of schools such as Georgetown, Marquette, and Loyola (what do the Jesuits have against pretty teeth?). Also, dentists are bailing out of primary care and are going into specialties. There has been an exceptional increase in the number of women going into dentistry (35-45% at UConn), and that phenomenon might exasperate a shortage in dental care as some women choose to practice part time while they raise families. The startup costs for a dental practice can be prohibitive—$400,000 to set up, while at the same time carrying $250,000 in student loans. Insurance is not as much of a problem in dentistry as it is in general medicine. But “HIPAA” fines can be very steep. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act sets up strict regulations around the handling of medical records. This regulation increases the difficulty of maintaining proper paperwork.
Finally, the biggest change over the past number of years has been the overall reduction in tooth decay. But as this generation of children drink more “yuppie” water (from Maine?) and get less fluoride, cavities have been making a comeback! Would Dr. Tom do it all again? Only if he could get a license this time.
Respectfully submitted,
Bill Secord
HIGH GEAR for November 12, 2003
Through the French doors, the Paul Harris nominating committee looked everything like the Knights of King Arthur’s Round Table as they held a pre-meeting in the “Sun Room.” After they emerged, Don Hallquist played a jazz version of “Over the River and Through the Woods” while we waited for the bell to ring. Ted Mosebach offered our prayer of thanksgiving. Lunch consisted of breaded fish fillet, peas (which Don Hallquist refuses to eat even if he can’t get dessert afterwards), and a medley of rices. We saved our forks for the pumpkin pie dessert. Except for our speaker of the day, there were no guests. Don Cramer completed a make-up in his regular Fort Myers Beach retreat.
Margaret LaCroix reminded us that the Rotary Holiday Party is scheduled for Wednesday, December 3, at Adam’s Mill—6:00 pm cocktails, 7 pm dinner. Everyone who plans to go must pay Margaret in advance—no payment at the door. Dinner choices are chicken stuffed with broccoli and cheddar cheese, baked stuffed shrimp, or prime rib. The cost is $37.50—which includes wine at the tables. You may send your checks to Margaret at 115 Hawthorne Mead Drive, Glastonbury, CT 06033. Please make checks out to the East Hartford Rotary Club (Margaret has enough beautiful dresses). The charity supported by the holiday party this year is the East Hartford homeless shelter. We should consider taking gifts of the following type for our donations: toiletries; bath robes; slippers; gift certificates in small denominations for such establishments as CVS, Target, McDonald’s, or Big Y; disposable diapers; school supplies; sanitary napkins/tampons; pajamas; or the traditional toys.
A collection envelop made its way around the tables for donations for the Rotary float at the annual Rose Bowl parade. This year’s parade is special for East Hartford because our own Frank and Ceil Collins will be riding up top! An impromptu pool has been formed regarding what kind of flowers Frank and Ceil will be dressed as. Sergeant-at-arms Carol Krantz cited Dan Coulom for being quoted in the paper; George Agnelli for the birth of his granddaughter, Olivia Ruth Agnelli; Marcia LeClerc for being elected to the town council; and Dan Russell for his grandson’s state soccer championship. Dan Frazier, Jim Sheehan, and Hyacinth Douglas-Bailey paid for their birthdays.
President Neal formally inducted Michael Knepp as a new member of the East Harford Rotary Club. Mike, director of our regional Salvation Army chapter and a former member of Rotary in New York State, thanked the club and commented on how impressed he has been by this club’s level of commitment to community service. Roy Spiller is accepting early sign-ups for the one-hour turns at ringing the Salvation Army Christmas bells—and absent names will be noted. President Neal reported the reception of thank-you letters—one from the Summer Youth Festival and one from Mayor Larson for our participation in Rebuilding Together. Herb Barall won the raffle. Carol Krantz reminded us that citrus fruit orders are due by December 3 (the night of the holiday party) and that delivery will be on December 13. Those individuals not wishing to sell fruit may make a donation of $50.00 instead.
President Neal also announced the reception of a remarkable gift from the estate of Dick Olmsted. Dick left the East Hartford Rotary Club $15,000 in his will. Bill Leone has recommended that instead of putting the money in the general fund, we name a permanent scholarship after Dick.
Spurge Stokes reported on our concession stand at Rentschler Field. He was able to turn over $355 in tips directly to President Neal (only because Carol Krantz had charged an extra $2.00 for every beer when she was working). Spurge thanked Rosemary Hogan especially for working early and late every week helping to keep track of the inventory, and he thanked Jay Stewart and Charlotte Bradbury for working the last game and providing us with the needed 18 people. He gave a breakdown of the number of people who had worked multiple games:
|
Number of games worked |
1 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
5 |
6 |
|
Rotary members |
41 |
24 |
10 |
6 |
4 |
2 |
|
Spouses of Rotary members |
12 |
18 |
3 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Non-Rotary members |
3 |
2 |
|
|
|
|
Program: Jim Fallon introduced our speaker, the president of Manchester Community College, Jonathan Daube. Dr. Daube delivered an entertaining and informative talk on the importance of community colleges in today’s marketplace and on the remarkable quality of the education provided at Manchester Community College. He invited everyone to visit the beautifully reconstructed and extremely active campus at any time. The community college system in Connecticut presently serves 12,000 students. East Hartford especially benefits from the new “middle college” program for high school students. Over a thousand East Hartford residents are presently taking courses at MCC, 38 of the courses being given in East Hartford’s Community Cultural Center. MCC is the only college in Connecticut besides Yale that has received the prestigious “Truman Presidential Award.”
Respectfully submitted, Bill Secord
HIGH GEAR for November 5, 2003
A wet, dreary Fall day outside, but a full, boisterous group within the
welcoming back ambience of the Ridge. Our President demonstrated his
adaptability today by quickly overcoming the challenges of a microphone on the
fritz and the lack of a High Gear editor and a Sergeant At Arms. Substitutes
were immediately volunteered by the Prez!
A busy day all around with many announcements.
" Johnny Moe is slated for extensive surgery Thursday morning at Hartford
Hospital to be followed by up to three months of convalescence at a location to
be determined. For now he can be reached at 545-3867 on the 6th Floor, Conklin
Building, Hartford Hospital. He is reported to be in good spirits prior to
surgery and would welcome cards and calls.
" Scotty Howat had successful gall bladder surgery and is recovering at home.
Calls and cards to Scotty and Nurse Ann at 403 West Center Street, Apt. 401,
Manchester, 06040 would be welcome.
" The 2003 East Hartford Holiday Fest is holding a kick-off party on November
13 at the Holiday Inn, 363 Roberts Street from 5-7 p.m.. Please RSVP your
attendance to the E. H. Chamber at 289-0239.
" Our Annual Holiday Party will be held at Adam's Mill on Wednesday, December
3 with cocktails at 6 p.m. The tariff is $37.50 per person. You can mail your
check to Margaret LaCroix, 115 Hawthorne Mead Drive, Glastonbury, 06033.
Payments will NOT be allowed at the door!
" The Nominating Committee is hard at work putting together a slate for the
2004-2005 Rotary year. If you have any interest in being considered for Board
positions, contact Bob Richmond or Scottie Howat by November 17.
" Meeting of the Paul Harris Committee at 11 a.m. next Wednesday, November
12. All nominations must be received by Jim Watts prior to that date. You can
find forms on our Rotary web site.
" Contributions for the Rotary Float in the Rose Parade will be collected
next week. Rumor has it that Frank Collins will be covered with roses and
propped up among several beauty queens at the apex of the Float pyramid. The
sight could be well worth the $2 per Rotarian being solicited.
" Sue Klock passed out new rosters with several corrections from previous
issue. See Sue if you need additional copies. Dee Blackwood's business phone
number was listed incorrectly. The correct number is: (860) 749-1515.
" Carol Krantz passed out Citrus Sale forms to all. She encouraged an active
effort to sell the California oranges and Florida grapefruit but offered an
"out" for those reluctant to do so. A fifty dollar donation or $5 for each
unsold case up to 10 cases would do it. Your choice.
Acting Sergeant At Arms Krantz reported a birthday for Art Bradbury and 27th
Rotary anniversary for Dick Lemieux.. Makeups from snow birds Tischofer and
Cramer as well as three more from the globe trotting Collins duo. Our speaker
was PDG Bob MacDonald who gave an interesting presentation on Rotary's Committee
on Legislation. That's all the room I have for today. (Secord, read the High
Gear roster before next week!) Pinch hitting, this is Aaron Boone…uh, WDOUGW.
HIGH GEAR for October 29, 2003
A truly lousy day was brightened considerably when we entered
South Church to hear Don Hallquist playing lively tunes on the church's piano!
Thanks, Don, for your great contribution to our club! It makes a difference.
Pres. Neal brought us all together and Rev. Bill Flynn gave the invocation
asking us to live a life of good will and peace in keeping with the spirit of
Rotary. We took a moment of silence in support of the Spiller's Daughter
Margaret, who is undergoing surgery today. A tasty meal of chicken stuffed
with broccoli, mashed potatoes, squash and fruited Jello followed our opening
ceremonies.
Calling the meeting back to order, Pres. Neal asked for the introduction of
guests. Keith Griffith of the West Hartford Club was introduced and asked our
members to support a Rotary fund raiser - Cow Chip Bingo. Roy Spiller introduced
his grandson, Seth Brooks who is home from the Air Force. Margaret (or is it
Martha) Lacroix led us in the Welcome Song.
The Following were the announcements for the day!
1. Jim Watts again announced that Paul Harris nomination forms are available
from him or on the EH Rotary Web site. Get nominations to Jim before our Paul
Harris selection meeting scheduled for November 12th, 11:00 A.M. at the Ridge.
2. Carol Krantz announced that the citrus sale will begin next week and pick up
is scheduled for December 13th at Andy's Parking lot.
3. Sue Klock reminded us of our club's web site -EHROTARY.ORG!! Use it, you
will find much interesting information, not the least of which is information on
the Foundation Dinner scheduled for November 15th.
4. Bill Saunders gave a preliminary report on the success of the Golf
Tournament. He noted 123 golfers, 90 sponsors, and a great raffle. It looks as
if we will have a profit of about $23,000. Great job -Bill and the golf
committee. Some of the profits will go to support the East Hartford School
Business partnership.
5. Spurgeon announced that we need more workers for the game on November 8th.
Do your part - call Gil Wishart and let him know that you will be able to work
that date. It's the last one - so please help out!!
6. Next week we will be "back Home" at the Ridge!
Sgt at Arms Dan Dienst reported the following anniversaries: Bill Flynn - 25,
Jim Sheehan - 19, Kathy McCabe -10, and Hyacinth Douglas-Bailey - 1. All gave
generously. The Raffle was won by Bill Flynn who is leaving for Florida this
weekend. Keep in touch, Bill! There being no speaker we sang one verse of
America and were sent on our way. The following is a list of make ups-nice
going - keep them coming. Frank and Ceil Collins - 5 - Official visits in
Florida: Frank Collins - Evanston; Chuck Clarke and Lionel Lessard - Rockville;
Jack Sayre - Summit, NJ; Don Cramer - Ft. Meyers; Tom Gallvin and Margaret
LaCroix - On Line: and the following concessionaires - 10/25/03 - Larry
Churchill, Dan Coulom, Neal Cunningham, Dan Firestone, Bindu Sidhu, Roy Spiller,
Spurgeon Stokes, Bill Saunders, Steve Tamiso, Mary Martin, Kathy McCabe, Mo
Moshovos, Bill Secord, Carol Krantz, and Steve Jacoby..
That's all folks - Bob Wood
HIGH GEAR for October 22, 2003
A truly damp, cold day with the promise of some snow flurries greeted our
Rotarians as they entered our temporary meeting place at South Congregational
Church. It was warm in spirit once we were in the hall. Spurgeon was trying to
locate the raffle tickets while at the same time recruiting workers for
Saturday's Uconn game, and Dan Larson quietly sat by and collected the lunch
money. Pres. Neal called us together and Rev. Roger gave the Invocation and
asked us to keep in mind "the cause and vision of Rotary." A luncheon of
Moussaka, salad, and chocolate cake followed. "Nuf said"
Pres. Neal called us to order and guests were introduced - Dick Seidman from the
Hartford club who invited us to the Hartford's Club meetings for the next two
weeks to hear from two East Hartfordites - John Larson and Frank Collins. Carol
Krantz fumbled the next intro - Mike Knepp, prospective member! Carol was
rewarded with a chance to lead the Welcome Song. Sgt at Arms Dan Dienst
recorded the following donations -Anniversaries for Doug Willett and Bindu Sidhu,
a birthday for Pat Porteous, and a new grandson for Jim Fallon.
Announcements:
1. Applications are now available for our Paul Harris awards. Pick them up
from Jim Watts, and hand them in before our Paul Harris selection meeting
scheduled for November 12th at 11:00AM at the Ridge. All Paul Harris fellows
are requested to attend.
2. Doug Willett announced that the District Foundation Dinner will be held at
the Marriot on November 15. $40 per person. See Doug for details. Featured
speaker will be a Peace Scholar who is attending Duke University
3. Carol Krantz announced that the Citrus Sale will start November 5th and end
with a December 13th delivery date.
4. The International Dinner has been rescheduled for sometime in April.
5. Neal and Spurge spoke ot the need for more volunteers for the concession
stand. We have the next three Saturdays and are understaffed for each week.
Call Gil Wishart and volunteer. To date only 32 Rotarians have volunteered. Do
your part!!!!
6. The Board voted to give $250 to Riverfront Recapture, a long standing East
Hartford favorite.
Jim Fallon introduced our speaker Eric Sohn from Idea Fountain business
resources. Eric gave us a power point presentation on how to grow your business
"Bigger, Better, Faster." He went into great detail on strategies of "business
coaching" on how to get your business to keep up with the rapidly changing
business climate, and to be able to keep a step ahead of your competition.. He
gave those in attendance a CD which explained his whole presentation in great
detail. If anyone needs a copy give me a call. Maybe next week we might have a
"Retirement Coach" as a speaker.
Make ups were slim - Don Cramer, Dan Russell, and Bob Brown. Let's keep them
coming!!!
Til Next week at South Congregational Church -
Bob Wood
HIGH GEAR for October 15, 2003
Today was a typical blustery Fall day, cool and windy! Conversation before the
meeting indicated that it would not deter the golfers. Pres. Neal called the
meeting to order promptly at 12:15. The invocation was thoughtfully given by
Larry Frazier. The luncheon consisted of an open faced turkey sandwich, mixed
vegetables, coleslaw and a chocolate mousse. Quite good!!! When we reconvened,
the following guests were introduced: Mike Knepp, Candace Morrell, Kathy Maday,
and Al turner.
Sgt. At Arms Dan Dienst took center stage and announced the follow
anniversaries: Larry Frazier and Scotty Howat, each with 36 years, Ceil
Collins- 7, and John Mozzicato- 5. George Schoen paid for a granddaughter's
wedding.
Pres. Neal acknowledged thank you notes from Joe Terrini, President of the EH
Little League thanking us for our support of the Rotary Little League team, and
Ken Kulo and Laurie Foran, students we sent to the RYLA program this past
Spring, The following information is to be shared!
1. Mary Martin thanked the following for working at the Marathon on Saturday -
Dave Amberg, Art and Charlotte Bradbury, Neal Cunningham, Dan Firestone, Don
Hallquist, Rosemary Hogan, Dick Lemieux, Mary Martin, Kathy McCabe, Pat
Porteous, Jack Sayre, and George Stewart. Great Job!!!
2. Pres. Neal mentioned that we are in need of concession stand volunteers for
these dates - 10/25, 11/1, and 11/8. Please do your part!! He also mentioned
that there will be a meeting with the caterer this week to critique their
performance and to try to get them to focus on our needs and keep our stand
properly supplied.
3. Skip Guillemette wanted me to let the club know that his wife Laurie's
mother died this past week in Manchester. Our thoughts are with them.
4. Our roster keeper, Sue Klock,* indicated that a new roster will be completed
late October. In the meantime here are a few additions or corrections. Hyacinth
Douglas-Bailey's address is 26 Windsor Hill Road, So. Windsor 06074 -Home
644-5022, Work 610-3350. Don Hallquist's Bus. Phone to be changed to cell phone
#543-4787, and Lionel Lessard's business phone should be 588-9420. If you have
any other changes call Sue quickly!*
5. The Raffle was won by Bob Richmond.
6. Lionel Lessard introduced Kathy Maday, principal of St. Christopher's
School, who gave us a history of the school's 40 years of operation and its
mission to the community of East Hartford. She issued an invitation to our club
to help them celebrate their 40 years of faith based education at an open house
on Sunday November 9th at 3:P.M.
Larry Hangland Introduced our speaker, Rebecca Earle, Head of the Connecticut
Institute for the Blind, or Oak Hill, as it is sometimes called. She gave us a
brief history of this 110 year old Institution, and how its mission has changed
over the years. It started out as a prep school to prepare blind students for
further education. Since the state and federal mandates of the 1970's which
required that students be educated in the least restricted environments - namely
by placing the handicapped students in more of the public school situation, Oak
Hill has changed greatly. The organization now works with students that have a
variety of disabilities. The school's charter was changed in the 80's to
reflect this trend. They are now involved in running group homes for disabled
students and for developing programs to serve their needs in the normal
community. They are also running Housing for the blind as sort of an
independent and assisted living venture. CIB is also working with the latest in
technology dealing with several handicaps and disabilities. They run a program
called NEAT which is a demonstration center that brings people together with
equipment that makes life more accessible. A very interesting and informative
program!!!
Make ups!! Keep them coming - Loren Andreo 2, Don Cramer, Herb Tischofer 3, Jim
Watts, Bob Brown, Steve Jacoby, Skip Guillemette, Frank Collins 3, and Ceil
Collins. Good Work!
See you next week at SOUTH CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH
BOB WOOD
* If you are reading this, and you know of an error or correction in the roster, please contact Sue:
either via email,
suehklock@aol.com, or via voice mail, 860-430-1442
And, there were a few additional corrections which were not included in High Gear above -- these include corrections for Gerry Brady,
business phone should be (860) 289-5477 and there was an "e" dropped from name of his street, should be Wyndcliffe Park. Also dropped the final "e" from Skip's last name. Apologies to both.
We were Ushered into South Congregational Church With Maestro Don playing "The
Bridge over the River Kwai" and the "Notre Dame Fight Song". It certainly was a
great early Fall day. It seems as if most of our members remembered to come to
South!! President Neal called us to order promptly and Rev. Bill gave the
invocation and was thankful that we were a part of Rotary with the opportunity
to serve the community and to help work toward world peace. A tasty meal of
Sauerbraten, red cabbage, and boiled potato (served in honor of
Arnold's
Victory) was followed by a fresh fruit cup.
Calling the meeting back together Pres. Neal asked for introductions, and Roy
Spiller again introduced Mike Knepp, a prospective new member. The Welcome song
was lead by Don and Skip. Time for announcements:
1. Pres. Neal received a check for $2000 for our first two games at the
stadium.
2. Gil Wishart needs many more volunteers for the concession Stand on 10/25.
11/1, and 11/8. Call him to volunteer- Do Your Part!!
3. Dan Russell spoke of two GSE Opportunities - India and Hong Kong in January
of 04. Know any interested people 25 - 40?
4. Mary Martin asked for
Marathon volunteers Saturday 10/11,
7:30 at Pitkin Street. Park at
Leito's Car wash. Bring Rake or Shovel!!
5. Margaret Lacroix announced the opportunity for a Flu Shot -10/30 11:00-6:00,
Lung Ass'n. on Ash Street. We all need one!!
6. Sue Klock passed out new rosters. Call her for any omissions or changes.
7. International Dinner Saturday, November 15th, Save the day..
Sgt. at Arms Dan Dienst collected for Peter Klock's and Moe Belanger's
Birthdays-72 for Moe. The Raffle was won by our EX Banker, George Stewart.
Art Bradbury introduced our Speaker, Keith Barker, A UConn Administrator, and
former Chairman of the Computer Science Department.
Keith came to UConn for a sabbatical in 1982, and came back full time in 1984.
He has been involved in Developing Teaching and Learning skills, off campus
learning, and is presently coordinating UConn's graduation. Keith's
presentation centered around his work with two universities located in South
Africa. This work has allowed him to meet with our South African Rotary
connection Humphry and Sonia.
Keith worked with two Universities - Fort Hare, a predominately rural Black
school, and Stellenbosch, a White school. Keith's work was to institute a
faculty development program involving Good Teaching Techniques, Practicing Good
Teaching, and Training Trainers for these skills. He has spent much time in the
area of Faculty and Professional Development at UConn and was able to use these
skills to raise the level of teaching at these South African Universities. He
spoke of some of the issues facing these universities -some similar to our own -
such as diversity. He was also able to share with us a wonderful visual
illustrating 23 species of African Wild Life. A great program.
See you next week at South Congregational Church ----------- Bob Wood
We gathered at the East Hartford Golf Course for the first of several meetings
away from our "Home Base"-The Ridge! It was a typical Fall day, cool, somewhat
cloudy, but a harbinger of things to come. We were slow to gather, probably due
to the early hour, and also rather sparsely attended, due to some degree of
forgetfulness!!!! President Neal brought us all together with a tardy ring of
the bell, followed by our usual opening ceremonies. Art Bradbury gave a
thoughtful invocation and asked us to remember the "privilege that we share" as
we are thankful for what we have and can do for others.
Breakfast was a great buffet -eggs, French toast, bacon, sausage, ham, home
fries, assorted pastries, and juice! Well done John, with a little help from
assistant chef Jack Ghagan. When we finished the breakfast, we were called back
into session, and Roy Spiller introduced our lone guest, Mike Knepp, from the
Salvation Army. Don Hallquist got us started with a rendition of the Welcome
Song played on a portable keyboard. Sgt. at Arms Dan Dienst gave us a waiver on
any fines and warned us to be ready next week.
The following were the announcements. Take note!!!!
1. Dan Russell asked for volunteers to help him move some historical society
materials. Call him if you can help.
2. Bill Saunders announced that the golf committee will meet at 11:00 A.M. on
October 15th before the Meeting at South Congregational Church. Note Change of
date.
3. President Neal asked on behalf of Mary Martin for volunteers to work at the
water station for the Hartford Marathon on Saturday, October 11th, between 7:30
A.M. and Noon. Call Mary if you can Work.
4. Spurge Stokes reminded this Saturday's volunteers for the concession stand
to meet at the Ridge at 8:00 for carpooling to the Stadium.
We are in great need of volunteers for the last three games. Please call
Gil Wishart and tell him you would love to work.
5. Roy Spiller announced that there are still a couple of openings for the
February Ski(?) trip -2/9, 2/10, and 2/11. About $500 a couple for three nights
and all of your meals. A great deal - Call Roy if interested.
MOST IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT
6. WE WILL MEET AT SOUTH CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH FOR THE NEXT 4 MEETINGS -1301
FORBES STREET
BE THERE
After all the announcements, Spurge held the raffle which was won by David
Holmes. I think that President Neal was looking for a place in the Guinness
Book of World Records for the Shortest Rotary Meeting held in East Hartford in
this Scribe's memory -7:35 to 8:10. With no other business, we closed with one
verse of "AMERICA, THE BEAUTIFUL".
SEE YOU ALL NEXT WEEK AT SOUTH CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH..........
Bob Wood
HIGH GEAR for
September 24, 2003
Still another spectacular early Fall day graced our weekly pilgrimage to the top
of the Ridge. Vincent Van Gogh was at the piano, Charlton Fisk was wielding the
gavel, Uriah Heep handled the sergeant at arms coffers, and Kofi Annan was back
from Rotary visits to Matamros, Mexico and Kansas City, Kansas. Rotary
International's celebrity club was in session.
Our lone (but never lonely) guest was Den Weir, a banker from the Glastonbury
Club and the welcome song was loud and enthusiastic. As was our birthday song
for Don Hallquist which provoked howling in the hall. The howling, for once, was
not attributable to Dan Larson, although he is usually the source or the reason
for such sounds. Herb Barall paid for a picture in the paper (sic), and Jack
Ghagan, Dean Roland and Dan Russell acknowledged their 30 years in Rotary. Dean
also paid for putting his bride, Saint Jean, through 59 years of living hell.
Announcements were as follows:
" Steve Jacoby is selling Entertainment Books for the Interact Club
" Four more volunteers are needed for the October 4th Football Game
Concession Stand.
" Mary Martin read a thank you note from a recipient of our largess during
the "Rebuilding Together Program" last Saturday. Thanks to Bob and Debbie Wood,
Roger Nicholson, Dan Larson, Ted Mosebach and The Empress who carried Rotary's
banner in this worthwhile event.
" Bill Saunders preliminarily reported on the very successful Golf Tournament
held Monday. He singled out Bob Brown, Don Cramer, and Kathy McCabe for special
thanks. And the Club in turn thanked Bill for his outstanding leadership and
commitment to this event. A follow up meeting of the Golf Committee is scheduled
for October 8 at 11 a.m. at South Church.
" Due to the use of the Ridge for the annual Haunted House event in the month
of October, we will be meeting off site for the next five weeks. Next week,
October 1, 2003 will be breakfast meeting at 7:30 a.m. at the Golf Course
Restaurant, and meetings on October 8, 15, 22, and 29 will be at South Church.
Spurge Stokes had a triple play this week - he sold the raffle tickets, he
pulled the winning ticket from the basket, and he put the winnings in his own
pocket. Not sure what the rest of us were doing there.
Our speaker today was Angela Atwater, President-Elect of the Montville Club, and
the Executive Director of the Kidsafe CT agency in Rockville. Angela talked
about the work Kidsafe CT does to provide a safe and nurturing environment for
children at risk for child abuse and neglect. East Hartford provides over one
third of their client base and by far the largest type of abuse experienced by
their clients is in the category of Neglect - emotional, educational, medical
and physical neglect. This was a sobering program and East Hartford is fortunate
to have Angela and her agency available to provide this service to our children.
That's it for this week. Indeed that's it for this scribe for this Rotary year
as my High Gear stint has flown by. It's time to pass on the duties to Bob
"Tree" Wood. So in the words of her favorite Divisional Champion rookie left
fielder, "sayanora, Ruthie-san." WDOUGW
HIGH GEAR for
September 17, 2003
Hurricanes are a force of nature, and not to be trifled with - especially if
you've just moved from the inland safety of East Hartford to the Connecticut
shoreline about fifty yards from the ocean. So today's meeting was set in a
context of anticipation and low-level anxiety. Although it would be hard to tell
that with the sun shining so brightly, the intrepid Bronx Bombers within seven
of breaking Ruthie's heart once again, and UConn's beloved Swin Cash basking in
the glow of leading her team to still another national championship.
President Neal greeted a noisy, full house this day with two guests, both from
Glastonbury, one named Mark and another called Dan. Last names were impossible
to hear over the din. Jim Watts lead the welcome song while Dan Larson made a
somewhat feeble attempt to add to the natural wind in the room. Another Krause
specialty, a half portion of chicken potpie, whetted our appetites and just
barely provided sufficient stamina to survive our Sergeant at Arms homily. Dave
Amberg donated the pocket change left after his daughter's wedding Saturday
past, Steve Jacoby paid for an anniversary, and Glenn Peterson, Dan Coulom, and
George Schoen paid for birthdays.
Bill Saunders reported that the Golf Tournament has made great progress in the
past week with a now full complement of golfers and more than 84 sponsors and
$9,000 in raffle prizes. Special thanks were extended to Leo Christmas for the
generous donation from Electrical Contractors. Ted Mosebach made a pitch for the
Red Cross Blood Drive to be held September 27 at First Church from 8:30 - 1:15.
Appointments can be made by calling 1-800-Give Life or just drop by. Steve
Jacoby reported that our EHHS Interact Club has 36 members with more to come
from the new International Baccalaureate program Interact is once again selling
the Entertainment Books as their major fundraiser.
With announcements complete, President Neal moved on to the Club Assembly with
several items covered:
" Concession Stand continues to evolve with receipts down over previous
effort. We will make every effort to get through the season before deciding on
future commitment.
" Mary Martin reported the Gazebo is on track - the structure is out to bid -
preliminary testing on the soil is underway - Stu Harris is an expert on
"shifting rubble" - electrical conduit to be installed in spring - the Gazebo
kit to be erected thereafter and Rotary will be called on to do final
landscaping in the April/May timeframe.
" The Lions Club fat or fit challenge is ongoing - still time to join in.
" The Club donated $500 to the American Lung Association to help with
replacement costs for show bus that was burned in their parking lot this summer.
" A long list of upcoming events were listed with specific dates given for
the Columbus Day Water Station on October 11, an International Shemo Special on
November 15, Thanksgiving Wine & Cheese on November 26, and a Holiday Party at
Adams Mill on December 3. Lots more to be scheduled in 2004.
" A spirited discussion of the Club's methods of enforcing attendance
requirements was concluded with an agreement to disagree, and
" Jim Fallon rose to plead for a "non-harassment fee" he would willingly pay
to acquire exemption from the current necessity of stashing Rotary pins in his
car, throughout his laundry and on more than one location in his body. Ever
sympathetic and helpful President Neal suggested a neck tattoo might serve as
well.
Our sympathies are extended to Eleanor Agnelli whose brother (and my cousin)
Philip died last week in Virginia at the too young age of 59. Philip was a kind,
hardworking and gentle man and he will be missed by all who knew him.
That's it for this week. See you next week, God willin' and the Bay don't rise.
Stay dry.
WDOUGW
HIGH GEAR for
September 10, 2003
It was a beautiful, bright early September day in New England as we gathered for
our weekly festivities. The Old Catcher (check out the fingers on his glove hand
sometime) was clearly in charge as President Neal rang the bell and called the
boisterous crowd to order. The weekly opening ritual was followed by a meal of
acorn squash, beef stew and Jell-O for dessert - an excellent beginning.
Our only guest was old friend Gil Spenser from Glastonbury who brought sad news
of the passing of Ethel Newkirk, wife of long time East Hartford Rotarian, Wayne
Newkirk, who predeceased her some years ago. There will be a service at Hillside
Cemetery at 10 a.m. this Saturday.
The goodly crowd was subjected to Sergeant At Arms Bill Flynn
trolling for dollars but our generally strict adherence to the Rotary custom
left him bemoaning what is becoming a mantra for him this month…"slim pickin',
slim pickin'.
(Sort of reminds one of the Bosox these days as the season dwindles down,
doesn't it, Ruthie?)
Bill did announce a birthday for the ex-Czaress Mary Martin, who demonstrated
she has not lost her quick wit. When challenged about her age, she reposted,
"still young enough to be most of yours daughter!" Jack Ghagan and Herb Barall
paid for wedding anniversaries that combined totaled 105 years. Saint Evelyn and
Saint Reggie clearly have an express pass to heaven in their future. A final
dollar was collected by ever alert Dan Larson as what he described as "another
slithering attorney" tried to slip out early. The barrister subject to this
calumny shall go unnamed.
Thank you notes were received from the Interfaith Community Health Group for a
donation and from the East Hartford Shelter for all the work Rotary contributed
in renovating their quarters. President Neal attended the recent grand opening
and reported that the place "looks like a million dollars." Among the Rotarians
involved were Bob Richmond, Bill Saunders, Dave Amberg, Art Bradbury, Dick
McCarthy, Bob Wood, Mary Martin, and Marsha LeClerc. The driving force in Rotary
was Dan Dienst, marching in lock step with his spouse, Loretta, who clearly made
this project happen from start to finish. Congratulations to all who were of
service on this project and congratulations Dan and Loretta. East Hartford is a
better place for your efforts.
Some Announcements: Next week is a Club Assembly - bring your ideas and issues
with you for discussion. There will be a Board Meeting on Monday, September 15
at 7:00 p.m. at the East Hartford Cultural Center. Still time to sign up for
the September 20 "Rebuilding Together" event. See Mary Martin. Volunteers for
the Boston College game are asked to be at the Ridge at 8:15 for the car pools.
Gil Wishart is looking for volunteers for the Lehigh game on October 4th.
The Golf Tournament is around the corner on September 22. We are far behind on
players and sponsors compared to last year and 27 Rotarians have not contributed
to date. A raffle gift, a sponsorship or a playing spot would be appreciated.
Talk to Bill Saunders.
Our speaker today was Dave Taylor from Big Brothers and Sisters and we had lots
of makeups to record.
In closing, God may be in his heaven, but all is clearly not right with the
world on the eve of the second anniversary of 9-11. Rotary fellowship or more
precisely, Rotary's work for peace and Rotary's example of service are needed
now more than ever before. Let us as Rotarians model the behavior we would seek
in others around the world. See you next week. WDOUGW
HIGH GEAR for September 3, 2003
High Gear - September 3, 2003
Things were bustling at the Ridge today, despite the considerable handicap of
being sans Hallquist. Too often, we fail to truly appreciate what we have until
its absence brings it to mind. Our lone visiting Rotarian today, Milt Rosenberg
from Bloomfield, referred to us fondly as the "singing club" and we struggled to
meet that standard without our piano player. But struggle or not, we carried on.
Despite the overcast day, the room was filled with energy and good will. A tasty
repast of lamb, potato, corn on the cob and a fruit plate for dessert did
nothing to dampen our enthusiasm.
In fact our enthusiasm made it difficult for a conscientious recorder of events
to hear the announcements around the room and the pronouncements emanating from
our erstwhile leader, President Neal. Nonetheless, our Sergeant-at-Arms, Bill
Flynn, reported anniversaries for Bill Secord (6), and Lionel Lessard (15), a
birthday for David Holmes, and a TV appearance for the local jeweler.
Announcements included praise and pride expressed by George Stewart for the work
done by Frank and Celia Collins at the recent Area Zone Institute; an appeal
from Dan Dienst for volunteers this Thursday to finish up work at the Community
Shelter; and Bill Saunders' increasingly desperate plea to ramp up the effort in
securing players, sponsors and prizes for the rapidly upcoming Golf Tournament.
President Neal reported on the Football Concession Stand's first week's
performance. He noted that every one had a good time, the work was hard, the
trade was steady and the overall intake was over $12,000. It is unclear as yet
what our cut of this will be but the money to be made for Rotary causes appears
to be significant. President Neal needs 7 or 8 more volunteers for the Boston
College game on September 13. See Gil Wishart if you can help that day.
Our initial speaker for this season was Greg Secord, Executive Director of the
Hartford Chapter of Rebuilding Together, a volunteer driven, non-profit
organization that helps elderly, disabled and the poor with home repairs and
home maintenance skills. East Hartford is planning a Rebuilding Together event
on September 20, 2003 when they plan to work on 3-5 homes in town. The group is
looking for volunteers for that day. Shirts, lunch and a day end picnic will be
part of the effort. Sign up at www.rthartford.org or talk to Mary Martin. A
worthy cause and a good program. Makeups were turned in by Frank and Ceil
Collins (8) and Bob Wood (2).
On a Sad Note: Roger Nicholson, in his thoughtful blessing, made note of the
untimely passing of Gloria Kreson, after a courageous battle with a debilitating
disease. Our hearts and thoughts go out to Frank and his family as they
struggle to cope with their loss, And Gloria's passing is our loss, too, for no
one enjoyed Rotary social functions more than Gloria did and we will all miss
her mischievous smile and warm greeting. Our arms enfold you, Frank. A
memorial mass will be held this Friday, September 5, at 10:30 a.m. at Blessed
Sacrament Church.
That's it for this week. Do good and be of service until we meet again. WDOUGW
HIGH GEAR for August 27., 2003
High Gear
Wednesday, August 27, 2003
(Revised Edition)
President Neal convened the Rotary Meeting with the usual opening formalities.
Dave Amberg gave the invocation giving special thanks for the day, good health,
having the opportunity to serve others, and for the fellowship of Rotarians. The
lunch consisted of an open turkey sandwich with vegetable, pasta and a plate of
sweets for dessert.
Introduction of Guests &Visiting Rotarians:
Visiting Rotarians were Dan Rys and John Mitchell of South Windsor, and
John's guest, Walt Mealy; and Bruce Ralston, guest of Bill Flynn.
Sergeant-at-Arms Report:
Nick Cecere was Sergeant-at-Arms for the day, reporting fines as follows:
Walt Kupchunos for 25th Anniversary; Doug Willett for a new home in Niantic; Dan
Firestone for having his 39 Hudson in Auto Magazine, and Steve Jacoby for his
wife's picture in the newspaper.
Bob Brown won the 50-50 Raffle.
Announcements:
Bill Saunders - Stressed that the Golf Tournament is only 3 ½ weeks away and to
date we have 65 players (we need 120-130), 16 raffle prizes totaling $3600.00
dollars (our goal is $10,000.00) and 40 sponsors (we would like 120).
Spurg Stokes - Reviewed the process and details surrounding our work at the
UConn Football Game on Saturday at Rentschler Field. Essentially: Arrive in
the parking lot at Veteran's Memorial Clubhouse (The Ridge) at 8:30 a.m.
promptly. Wear white polo shirt (no logo), beige pants (or dark colored if you
don't have beige), no jewelry, no nail polish, and comfortable shoes (not open
toed). You will car pool from The Ridge to the Field. BE PROMPT!
Mary Martin - Gave special thanks to those who participated in the "Clothes for
Kids" program with the East Hartford Social Services Dept. Fourteen low-income
children received new school clothes and supplies from the following Rotarians
and their families: Cunningham, Christmas, Krantz, LaCroix, LeClerc, Lemieux,
Martin, Popp, Russell, Saunders, Schoen, Shemo and Willett.
South Windsor Announcements: Golf Tournament next Wednesday at Topstone and
Wine Dinner at Mill on the River on Sept. 12th. If you wish to participate,
contact a South Windsor Rotarian.
Make-ups: Dan Dienst, aboard the M/S River Aria Cruise Ship - visiting Belgrade
& Serbia, and several Rotarian make-ups for attending Golf Committee Meeting.
Address Changes:
Doug Willett - 13 Lake Shore Drive, Niantic. Tel. #(860) 691-2657
Frank Kreson - Willow Arms Apartments (Apt. 222), 446 Main Street, East
Hartford, 06118. Tel. #(860) 895-9339
The Retired Hornet
HIGH GEAR for August 20, 2003
High Gear
Wednesday, August 20, 2003
Acting President Carol Krantz (secretary filling in) convened the Rotary Meeting
with the usual opening formalities. John Shemo gave the invocation giving
special thanks for the day, the food, and the fellowship of Rotarians. He also
prayed for the safety of our servicemen around the world. The lunch consisted
of beef pot pie with a side salad, and ice cream with strawberries for dessert.
Introduction of Guests &Visiting Rotarians:
Our only guest for today was our own Fred Campbell who is now President of
the Port Orange South, Daytona, FL. Club. Fred leaves for home on Friday and we
wish them a safe trip home.
Sergeant-at-Arms Report:
Nick Cecere was Sergeant-at-Arms for the day and reported fines as follows:
three anniversaries - Frank Collins - 33yrs., Mary Martin - 15 yrs., and Leo
Christmas - 1 yr.; and three birthdays - Bob Richmond, Bill Saunders and Gerry
Brady.
The 50-50 Raffle was won by Moe Belanger.
Announcements:
Acting President Carol - announced that the Rotary Board had decided there
would be no funding raising at the upcoming Bruce Springsteen Concert since we
already have so much on our plate.
Margaret LaCroix took a poll of Rotarians in attendance and announced that the
Holiday Party this year will be scheduled at Adam's Mill in Manchester.
Gil Wishart & Stew Harris reported on a meeting with concession officials for
the upcoming football games. Here are some of the rules:
A. Everyone (20 Rotarians) must be at the Field at 9:00 a.m. on game day.
B. Everyone must wear a white polo shirt (with no insigna) and dark pants (no
jeans, shorts, open-toed shoes, or jewelry, including watches).
It was suggested by those members present that the rules be clearly spelled out
with subs available on game days for those who are ill or have an emergency.
The schedule of home Uconn Football Games is as follows: August 30 - Indiana;
Sept. 13 - Boston College; Oct. 4 - Lehigh; Oct. 25 - Akron; Nov. 1 - Western
Michigan; and Nov. 8 - Rutgers.
Bill Saunders did not speak but requested this scribe remind everyone that the
Golf Tournament is only a month away and we need sponsors, players and raffle
prizes. To date we have 37 sponsors (we would like 120), 40 players (135 is our
goal) and 16 raffle prizes (we would like 75).
Make-ups: Larry Churchill (2) and Margaret LaCroix (1) - Internet E-Club; Skip
Guillemette - Manchester; Herb Tischofer - Cruise (Radiance of the Seas); and
Frank & Ceil Collins - Westerly, RI.
Congratulations Acting President Carol - You did a great job today!
The Retired Hornet
HIGH GEAR for August 13, 2003
High Gear
Wednesday, August 13, 2003
President Neal convened the Rotary Meeting with the usual opening formalities.
Art Bradbury gave the invocation, giving special thanks for having the pleasure
of a visit from our new District Governor, Jeff Tager, and for the sunshine
(which turned to rain before the end of the meeting). The lunch consisted of
prime rib, rice, sweet and sour pork, vegetable, and ice cream for dessert. It
was great to see Albee Trieber back today. What about those short pants on Bob
Wood & Art Bradbury?
Introduction of Guests &Visiting Rotarians:
Our guests for today were Fred Campbell from Port Orange, FL (who thanked
the club for sending Roy & Peg Spiller to attend his Rotary Installation
Ceremony for President of his Florida club); Glenn Petersen from the Winsted
Club and currently Principal of the new Magnet School; District Governor Elect -
Dick Seidman, and two others who will be mentioned elsewhere in the newsletter.
Sergeant-at-Arms Report:
Nick Cecere was Sergeant-at-Arms for the day and reported fines as follows:
a few Rotarians for arriving late and leaving early; three for anniversaries -
Art Bradbury - 35yrs, Bob Wood - 18 yrs, and Mo Moshovos - 34 yrs; five for
birthdays - Ceil Collins (who donated $100.00 to the Rotary Foundation, Tom
Galvin, Herb Barall, Dan Dienst, Gil Wishart and Mo Moshovos.
The 50-50 Raffle was won by Dick McCarthy
Scholarship Recipient:
George Agnelli introduced Anna Dziadosz, a June graduate of EHHS, who is one
of our newest scholarship recipients. Anna thanked the club for her scholarship
and indicated that she will be attending George Washington University in the
fall. Congratulations Anna and Good Luck!
Paul Harris Award:
Doug Willett made a very special presentation. He announced that he had
made his wife, Diane, a Paul Harris Fellow, in appreciation of all that she has
done for Rotary and for the Town of East Hartford.
Announcements:
President Neal - Thanked Steve Jacoby for scheduling the successful Saratoga
Trip and thanked those who provided donations for the Back-to-School Clothing
Program for needy youngsters. He also indicated that the Concessions Commitment
for our first Uconn Football game on Aug. 30th is complete. All those signed up
should prepare to report about 9 a.m. and work until approximately 3-4 p.m.
Dan Dienst - has two left over dishes from the cookout at his home last week.
Mary Martin - thanked all those who participated in the State Games last week -
Eighteen Rotarians participated in at least one event. Thanks to everyone and
special thanks to those spouses who also volunteered.
Peter Klock - announced that he had chair-back seats available for the 6 Uconn
Football Games at $35.00 each. Anyone interested should see Peter.
Bill Saunders - pleaded with club members to get busy with sponsorships, players
and raffle prizes for the Golf Tournament on Sept. 22nd. We are woefully
lacking in all categories!
Visiting District Governor - Jeff Tager:
Today it was great to have a visit from our new 7890 District Governor - Jeff
Tager. Jeff indicated that he had four goals he would like to accomplish for
the year. First - he would like us to make better use of the available RI
Grants. Grants are now controlled at the district level and some funds may be
made available for local programs. Second - he would like each club to focus
on the Rotary Foundation by becoming a 100% club. This means that the club,
through its membership, would provide the foundation with $100.00 per member.
These funds can be raised by activities in addition to direct donations. Third
- Develop a good Public Relations Program to provide publicity about club
activities within the community. he feels we need to improve our public
image. Fourth & Last - Jeff is placing emphasis on the Family of Rotary. This
means that we should all be concerned with the welfare of each other. He
further asks that we appoint a chairperson to coordinate this effort. The
District Conference next spring will also emphasize this family theme. A Family
District Picnic is already scheduled for Sept. 14th.
Make-ups: Jim Watts (2) - Internet; Bob Wood (2) - Bridgton & Fryeburg; Loren
Andreo (2) - Westerly, RI; Roy Spiller - Rockville/Vernon; Gerry Brady -
Bridgton; Frank & Ceil Collins - Pittsfield Rotary; Ceil Collins - Zone
Meeting, Wallingford. (Also numerous make-ups for committee work and activities)
The Retired Hornet
High Gear
Wednesday, August 6, 2003
Word has it that Rev. Bill spoke to the man upstairs requesting that the weather
clear for this one day in order that the East Hartford Rotary Club might have
this day and evening of merriment. It worked Bill - the skies did clear
unexpectedly, and what a day it was! Whatever really happened, we had a great
day together both on the Links and at Dan & Loretta Dienst's home for an evening
cookout.
The day started at 10 a.m. with twenty-four golfers teeing off at the Twin Hills
Country Club. While it was a little wet, the course was beautiful and in very
good condition considering all the rain we've had.
At around 5 p.m. in the evening we all assembled for the cookout at Dan &
Loretta's home. There we gathered for an evening of fun, conversation and good
food. Seventy-two Rotarians and their spouses were in attendance.
Then, as the events were concluding, suddenly the rains began to come again.
Thank you Rev. Bill! Please pass along our thanks to the almighty for this
grand reprieve.
Sergeant-at-Arms Report:
There was no report this evening and no fines.
Rotary Meeting:
President Neil called a meeting of those assembled to make announcements and
thank the Committee for putting on the events of the day. He also extended
special thanks to Loretta and Dan Dienst for the use of their beautiful home and
great hospitality. Committee members were: Kathy McCabe, Larry Frazier, John
Shemo, Dean Roland, Ceil & Frank Collins, and Bill Leone. Special thanks go
also to Bob Brown for setting up the golf tournament.
The Winners in the Golf Tournament: Bob Brown announced the winning teams for
the tournament as follows:
First Place: Capt. Dave Amberg, Steve Jacoby and Ron Jacoby
Second Place: Capt. Bill Leone, Bill Flynn, George Stewart, and Art
Bradbury
Third Place: Capt. Dan Larson, Larry Frazier, Jack Gaghan, and Leo
Christmas
Announcements:
" Our new District Governor, Jeff Tager, will be visiting the club next
Wednesday, August 13th. Everyone is requested to dress up for the meeting in
your Sunday best.
" The Board of Directors has decided to work at the Concessions for 6 UConn
Football Games. A sign up sheet was passed around for the August 30 game only.
Other sign ups will be passed around at future meetings.
" A form was circulated for Rotarians to make school-clothing donations.
" State Games of America - Opening Ceremonies - this Friday. Mary Martin
will call each person who is working.
Make-ups:
Frank & Ceil Collins - (4) Lyndhurst, NJ; Vancouver, BC; Albany, NY;
Philadelphia, PA; and Ceil Collins - Wallingford, CT.
The Retired Hornet
HIGH GEAR for July 28, 2003
Dateline: Glastonbury BPOE Pavilion
Event: Annual EH/Glastonbury Rotary Softball Tilt
The EH Lineup: 1B - Dan Larson, 2B - Eric Larson, SS - Jeff Larson, 3B -
George Schoen, LF - Neil Cunningham, LC - Mike Cunningham, RC - Bob Richmond, RF
- Jim Shea, C - Doug Willett, P - Johnny Dangerously.
A mix of young and old. A winning combo. Five tightly contested innings - EH
jumped to a 3-0 lead in the first. GL fought back but could only muster two
more runs. Many, many fine fielding plays - both infield and outfield by young
and old alike. No slackers here. Injuries: D. Larson - pulled hamstring (in
the style of Nick Cecere); J. Dangerously - busted finger. A small price to pay
for victory. The Willett/Dangerously battery was unbeatable. With the Rotary
gods looking favorably upon EH, the final score was EH -3, GL - 2.
Congratulations, Pres. Neal "Hall of Famer" Cunningham. Number one booster:
Dick Lemieux.
Thirty EH Rotarians and as many from GL were treated to a terrific English night
prime rib dinner. Pres. Jaconetta called the meeting to order. GL coach John
Dufford offered a hearty congratulations to the Boys of Summer from EH. Pres.
Neal thanked the GL club for their gracious hospitality. Was that Pres. Neal
sans the Presidential Medallion?
Congratulations DG Jeff Tager on a great-looking new newsletter!
Upcoming Events: Aug. 6 - Golf/Picnic, Twin Hills CC/Dan & Loretta Dienst
home. If your last name begins with A-F, bring dessert; G-M, hors d'oeuvres;
N-W, side dishes.
That's all the news that's fit to print. It's been a pleasure being your scribe
for July.
Your retiring scribe,
JOHNNY DANGEROUSLY
Rain intermittent today. Wouldn't be GHO week without rain. We need it
anyway. Great to see Albee Trieber today - welcome back. Always a pleasure to
hear tunes from Don. Very casual summer attire continues to be in full force.
A fairly boisterous crowd today. How about the clean-shaven Mo "I have no
photos" Moshovos! Bill Flynn prayed for pork loin today and got it. Pres. Neal
is looking quite comfortable in his new role, however somewhat tongue-tied
today. Only one guest - Glen Peterson from the Winsted Club and new principal
of the EH/GL Magnet School. George Agnelli continues to look for respect. Nick
"One Note" Cecere led a high-fiving Welcome Song.
Sgt.-at-Arms Wishart reported an exceptional day today: Larry "The Count"
Frazier - picture in paper; Jackie Danise - 13th Rotary anniv.; Roger Nicholson
- 46th Rotary anniv. - WOW!; Ted Mosebach - 6th Rotary anniv.; Donna Kehoe -
birthday; Bill Leone - 60th birthday - WOW!; John Shemo - 50th birthday - WOW!
John had all Rotarians under 50 sing happy birthday. The QUINTET included our
visiting Rotarian.
Pres. Neal reported on Board actions:
$100 donation to Intercommunity Mental Health Fund;
$250 donation to Back-to-School Supplies
Dues are Due! Pay Up!
On-line make-ups are allowable by RI - don't abuse. If you prefer to do a real
make-up, check www.ehrotary.org for link to make-up sites.
EH Lions Club has challenged our club to a weight reduction contest to raise
community awareness about obesity. Several viable candidates from our club are
likely to emerge. Start date - Sept. 3. Step up to the scale.
Pres. Neal would like our club to support a back-to-school clothing program for
needy children. Will have more info forthcoming. Sounds like a very worthy
project.
Rentschler Field concessions are being organized. Our participation would
include 20 volunteers at 6 UCONN football games. We would earn 10% of net food
sales and 7% on alcohol. Dates: Aug. 30, Sept. 13, Oct. 4, Oct. 25, Nov. 1,
Nov. 8. The Board supports this fundraiser - how about you?
Pres. Neal read a letter from Rupali Shah, EHHS grad, thanking the club for her
scholarship.
If you have any incorrect or missing info on the roster, contact Sue Klock.
Next week - Softball - Monday night - Glastonbury Elks. Players - try to show
by 5:00. No Wednesday meeting.
Following week - Aug. 6: Golf/Picnic - Twin Hills/Dienst. If your last names
begin with A-F, bring dessert; G-M, hors d'oeuvres; N-W, side dishes.
We asked God to Bless America at 110.
Your new AARP scribe,
JOHNNY DANGEROUSLY
Your time-traveling scribe has returned to 2003. Good to see EH Rotary is alive
and well in 2013. (If you missed the year "2013 which was edited without
authorization to read "2003" in last week's snail-mailed edition, you missed
this scribe's feeble attempt at humor.)
Today's attire: Reminiscent of a Shriners' Convention. Bring on the go-carts -
Where's the parade?
Great tunes by Don Hallquist once again. A record-fast invocation by Pres.
Neal. Meal today: Catch of the Day. Hope you digested today's meal and
ultimately this edition . Attendance: sub-50. Will be looking for lots of
make-ups.
Guests: Glen Petersen-Winsted Club; Kathy Craig - EH Holiday Inn; Nancy Hansen,
Safety Harbor, FL; McKenzie Ursin, scholarship winner from ECHS.
Don Cramer and Don Hallquist welcomed our guests in song. Sgt.-at-arms Gil
Wishart - hissed by many - had an extremely poor day. He's reportedly looking
for a way out of this important job.
Board Meeting next Monday at 7 p.m.
Golf/Cookout Aug 6, Twin Hills/Dienst, See Bob Brown for sign-up.
Golf Tourney: Please contact any potential sponsors who you may know.
Bill Flynn reports: an error in Brescia's email address: bill@brescias.com.
(NO "h")
Bill Secord introduced McKenzie Ursin, who thanked the Club for her
scholarship. She was captain of the varsity softball team, yearbook editor and
National Honor Society member. She will attend UCONN this fall.
Pres. Neal read a thank-you from another scholarship recipient: Anna Dziadosz.
Makeups: Larry Hangland, Wethersfield; Bob Wood, Bridgton (2x); Jack Sayre,
Summit, NJ.
Your scribe welcomes any and all comments regarding the style and content of
High Gear. For those who prefer a sanitized vanilla version, hope this edition
worked: "Just the facts, M'am,"
Next week: a return to Bizarro World?
Your fleeting scribe,
Johnny Dangerously
It was a temperate 110 degrees today, down from 115 during the past week. Felt
like Spring again. Don Hallquist delighted us with some tunes from the past
decade. Folks might have mistaken today's meeting for a swimsuit contest. Some
nattily attired Rotarians today! Secretary Brazalovich and Treasurer Kupchunos
were easing into their new jobs. President Bindu gonged promptly at 12:15 p.m.
District Chaplain Jacoby offered a prayer for peace in the Middle East.
Tastebuds served up a wonderful meal of pureed beef, mashed potatoes and creamed
corn. Tapioca pudding topped off the extravaganza. Lots of gum-flapping today.
Today's guests were Nancy Hansen, Glen Peterson, Russ Dale, Felix Klock. Tom
Westbrook performed a wonderful Roger Driggs impersonation of the Welcome Song.
President Bindu presented the Club with several proclamations from political
dignitaries in honor of E.H. Rotary's 85th anniversary. They included citations
from Mayor LeClerc, Governor Blumenthal, U.S. Senator Larson, and President
Hillary Clinton.
Sgt.-at-Arms Wishart levied several minor fines - the most notable of which was
Carol Krantz for the purchase of a brand new 2013 GM Acceleron featuring the
latest in generation III fuel cell technology.
Announcements/Reports: The Sgt.-at-Arms party at Bill Leone's house was once
again a hit. Only downside was the bartender's inability to keep up with the
demand for the Club's favorite beverage, orange Metamucil cocktail. Today's
program was the annual District Governor visit from our own Mary Martin. DG
Mary stressed adherence to this year's RI theme. Invite a Friend to Rotary -
Any Friend. She urged everyone's participation on the local host committee for
the 2015 RI Convention being held in Hartford. The UCONN opening ceremonies are
schedule to take place at Rentschler Field - home of the 2012 national football
champions, UCONN Huskies
Upcoming Events:
Lawn bowling/cookout-July19
Shuffleboard with Glastonbury Rotary-August 18
Saratoga Trip-August 9. See Steve Jacoby. Tickets $100.
Make-ups: Wishart - Scotland; Cramer - Avon; Bradbury - Maine; Spiller -
Niantic, Florida (2x); Dienst - Community Shelter.
We closed with one verse of America the Beautiful.
Your eternal scribe,
Johnny Dangerously
From July 9, 2003 Archive:
PP Picnic - Sunday, July 20, 2:00/4:00 dinner @ George & Jay Stewart's
Clubhouse, Lake Pocotopaug. A-F Salad, G-R Hors D'oeuvres, S-Z Dessert. RSVP
by July 16 to Richmond 568-7247.
Golf/Cookout - Twin Hills/Dienst - August 6.
State Games of America - Volunteers needed - Aug. 7, 2-5:30 / 5:30-8 - Marco
Polo;
Aug. 7, 9-1/12-4 - East Hartford High School; Aug. 8, 4-9 - Rentschler Stadium;
Aug. 9, 8-1/12-4 - East Hartford High School. See Mary Martin immediately.
Scholarship Winners: $2K each: Venecia Webster (Jack Davis Memorial
Scholarship); EHHS grad. -- BC bound; Andre Martin, EHHS grad. - Bryant College
bound; Ursin McKenzie, EHHS grad. - UCONN bound; Anna Dziadosz, EHHS grad. - GW
Univ. bound; Rupali Shah, EHHS grad. (Interact Club Pres.) - UCONN bound.
Thanks Bill Secord and Committee.
Today's Best Impersonation: Pres. Neal - Ebenezer Scrooge.
Thank God the shitée weather is behind us. Summer is officially here! Lather
up the head-tops with SPF 50. Break out the 50-pound metal Coca-Cola coolers
and heavy wooden-pole umbrellas. Put the tops down and head for Rocky Neck.
Casual summer garb was in full force. A few of our brethren couldn't wait to go
home and change before heading to the water. Knock-Kneed Stewart and P. Klock
wearing Bermuda shorts - attire unbecoming of civil Rotarians…
President Neal looked and acted the part - PRESIDENTIAL! PP Bob looked
well-rested, if not relieved. Amazing how a year as E. H. Rotary President
takes its toll. We anticipate a full recovery for Bob.
Dan Hallquist played some timely tunes. What would we do without ya, Don! Our
new secretary and treasurer - Krantz & Larson - respectively were trying to look
important. Congratulations for passing the test. George Stewart offered a
prayer and asked everyone to LEND A HAND - this year's R.I. theme. Mo Belanger
had high praise for today's buffet.
Pres. Neal apologized for not introducing Sue Klock as a Board Member last
week. Sue introduced her son, Andrew, and friend/business partner, Dan Pratt.
Only other guest: Bill Squires - Enfield Club. A high-energy, broad-smiled
Tom Westbrook did a masterful job leading the Welcome Song. Who dares to top
Tom???
Today's Sgt.-at-Arms Gil Wishart announced the following fines: Wishart - 2-yr.
Rotary Anniversary and multi-year wedding anniversary; Amberg & Watts - Rotary
anniversaries; Flynn - birthday.
Pres. Neal acknowledged a great article in the EH Gazette on the Rotary Golf
Tourney.
John Shemo gave a report on the raffle. Unofficial results, in order of best
sellers first:
(1) The A Team (150 tickets sold!)
(2) Entrepreneurs
(3) Board of Directors
(4) Past-Presidents
(5) Paul Harris Fellows
(6) Freshmen
(7) Out-of-Towners
(8) EH Elite
Raffle Winners:
First Prize: Bill Pellegrini (Nick Cecere ticket)
Second Prize: Rosemary Hogan (close friend of Pres Neal)
Third Prize: Tom Galvin
Tickets sold: 652
Total Revenue: $16,300
Expenses: $ 9,426
PROFIT: $ 6,874
John thanked everyone for their good, hard work.
Upcoming Events:
Past-President Picnic: July 20
Board of Directors' Mtg. July 21
Glastonbury Rotary Softball July 28
Golf/Picnic Aug. 6, Golf Course TBD
Saratoga Trip Aug. 9 ($45pp/seats available/see S. Jacoby)
Make-Ups: Frank & Ceil Collins, Canandaigua & Binghamton, NY; East Windsor
Closing - God Bless America
Adjournment: 12:53
Have a blast on the 4th!
Johnny Dangerously
|
I |
t was a grand night for singing . . . and we did, thanks to the talents of Don Hallquist. And, there was lots to sing about. President Bob Richmond called the June 25, 2003 meeting to order at 7:20 p.m. at Tastebuds on the occasion of the installation of a new club president. Thanks to Mary Martin, the event was great, complete with NASCAR decos in honor of the new president, Neal Cunningham. Even the format was different – a delicious buffet, including a shrimp dish and melt-in-your-mouth beef tenderloin.
Rev. Bill Flynn led the heartfelt special prayer.
Raffle Prize Winners Announced: (the drawing took place at 7:00 p.m.)
Bill Pelligrini- first prize/Canadian trip
Rosemary Hogan – second prize/computer
Tom Galvin – third prize/golf clubs
District Governor Jim Sheehan congratulated Bob for “exceptional leadership” and presented the club with the Rotary International Presidential Citation. He also thanked the club for supporting him in his position throughout the year.
Bob Richmond said that now that the roller coaster ride is over he was pleased, proud, sometimes disappointed but overall the club did a good job. He outlined the many accomplishments over the past year, including supporting CPTV, East Hartford Little League, summer youth festival, Interval House and the Hunger-thon. The club celebrated its 75th anniversary and honored six Paul Harris Fellows. He publicly thanked the board and members who played a special role throughout the year: Art Bradbury, John Shemo, Sue Klock, Don Hallquist, Dean Roland and Jim Sheehan.
Neal Cunningham was installed as the new president. He introduced his family and new board: Dan Firestone, Dan Larson, Gerry Brady, Bill Saunders, Carol Krantz, Sue Klock, and Margaret LaCroix. His vision for the upcoming year includes some things old, some things new, some things fun, hands-on projects and involvement with the new Rentschler Field.
Makeups: Frank and Ceil Collins: Kaduna, Nigeria; Bangkok, Thailand; and Brisbane, Australia (34,152 air miles!!!)
Please note: Golf Committee meeting scheduled for July 2 will be postponed to July 9, 2003 at 11:30 a.m. at the Ridge.
Margaret LaCroix
The June 18, 2003 meeting was the last meeting that President Bob Richmond will convene as president. Lunch consisted of leg of lamb, broccoli and au gratin potatoes followed by strawberry shortcake for dessert. Roger Nicholson delivered the opening prayer while Don Hallquist tickled the ivories at all the appropriate times.
Guests: Greg Williamson from the East Hampton Club and the Klocks’ son Felix
Make-Ups: Mary Martin (shelter), Margaret LaCroix (eClub), George Stewart (Maine).
Sergeant-At-Arms
Jack Ghagan reported a good day. Bill Flynn, Steve Tamiso and Skip Guillemette (He won the raffle.) celebrated birthdays; Herb Tischofer, Steve Bates and Chuck Clarke had Rotary anniversaries and the Klocks had a wedding anniversary.
Mark Your Calendar
The Installation Dinner is June 25, 2003 at Tastebuds at 6:30 p.m. The dinner buffet is $35 per person. No refunds after June 11, 2003. Mary Martin asked that all payment be made before the dinner
Announcements
New member Darlene Roberts was welcomed into the club. Her sponsor is Steve Jacoby.
Technical Announcements
Sue Klock announced a new Rotary website service which will contain older issues of High Gear and other information.
Margaret LaCroix reported that for those folks whose work and family demands sometimes prevent them from attending a traditional weekly Rotary meeting, there is an alternative to missing a meeting. The RI website now has an eClub section whereby you can sign on and spend about 30 minutes reading various articles and responding to various topical questions and then receive a makeup form. Despite the inappropriate response to this new technology by this club, many clubs worldwide are finding this an important key to attracting and retaining good members who are diligent enough to want to make up when a traditional makeup is not possible.
Speaker
Mischa Campbell from the Nutmeg Games asked members to consider being a volunteer for the games from August 7 to 10. Jobs include ticket takers, scorekeepers, distribution of uniforms, registration. The opening ceremony will take place at Rentschler Field. Mary Martin has volunteer applications. Volunteers should be at least 14 years old. For further information, visit nutmegstategames.org .
Margaret LaCroix
HIGH GEAR for June 11, 2003
Where to start? Once again the East Hartford Rotary's Sgt at Arms party was
hosted by those masters of party hosts... Bill & Bev Leone. Their lovely home is
a fitting setting for this outstanding social event of the Rotary year. Ably
assisted by Dean Roland, Tom Galvin, Spurge Stokes, Dan Larson & Bob Wood, (just
to name a few) lots of people helped put this all together, hauling & setting up
tables, tents, chairs, food and drink. The Leone Grill was doing its usual
sumptuous job, turning out steaks and planked salmon fit for a king. Our club's
own resident chef John Mozzicato made his presence known with a pan of
delicious ziti! If you weren't there, you missed a biggy, boys and girls!
Word was that 3 foursomes fought the good fight through tall grass and deep
water at EHGC earlier in the day; you could tell who they were: tired,
water-logged, but happy! There really was some business going on, too...Marcia
LeClerc (with help from her little elf, Jack Ghagan) smiled prettily while
passing out dues bills for the coming six month period. "Finally, everyone's
paid up for the past six months", she said, adding: "Leo Christmas was the first
to pay his dues for the period ahead!" And John McNaughton was giving out Rotary
hats to the lucky ones who'd ordered them. Looking like Sherlock Holmes with his
fore 'n aft bills, George Stewart kept explaining that one was for his Chicken!
Notably absent was any mention of our Raffle; so, are we selling those tickets?
Only 2 weeks 'til Installation night, June 25th, at Tastebuds. We need to show
100% support for incoming President Neal Cunningham. If you haven't yet, sign up
and pay up at the earliest!!!
President Bob Richmond joyfully led one of his last business meetings:
" Once again, thanked Bill & Bev Leone for making their home available.
" Noted the presence of Nacho Sanz, our Rotary exchange student from
Barcelona, Spain. Nacho, who will be going home on June 22, has made his mark on
our club with his friendly demeanor and thanked the club and its host families
for making his year a memorable one. Bob reminded us that Nacho will be with the
Richmonds and other Rotarian families at the East Hartford Golf Club for dinner
on Friday evening, June 13, and urged all who can, to come join them. We've been
the lucky ones to have Nacho with us this year, for we've gained a better
understanding of Spain and its people.
" June 20th marks the installation of incoming District Governor Jeff Tager
at the La Renaissance in East Windsor. Anyone interested in attending, call
Pres. Bob.
Sgt at Arms Bill Flynn-Waived most fines for the evening, but had to levy one
against Carol Krantz for her active cell phone. It should be noted, though, that
Carol had to borrow the fine money from dentist/turned banker Tom Galvin.
So, that's it, guys and gals; Wasn't it great to be together!! No make-ups to
report except for Stewart and Bradbury at Saco Bay Rotary, in Old Orchard Beach,
Maine. (I know, cause I were thar!)
Standing in for
...somebody....................................................Arthur
It was raining, it was pouring, but no one was snoring when
president Bob Richmond called the June 4, 2003 meeting to order. John Shemo led
us off in prayer. Lunch was a beef bourguignon over rice, vegetable medley and
fruited Jell-O with a dollop of topping.
Guests
Dick Seery from Portsmouth, NH and Darlene Roberts, Executive Director of the
YMCA
Sergeant-at-Arms
Dan Dienst reported birthdays for Dean Roland, Margaret LaCroix and Dan
Firestone. Dave Amberg celebrated an anniversary; Don Hallquist got a new car
(yet another?) and Dee Blackwood welcomed a grandson into her family.
Mark Your Calendar
June 11: Sergeant-at-Arms party at Bill Leone's. Tom Galvin asked the young
members (those under age 55) to help haul table and chairs from the Ridge. The
move will take place at 2:00 p.m. Call Bill if you are coming to the party.
June 13: The exchange student will be dining at the East Hartford Golf Club at
about 6:00 p.m. if anyone wants to go to say goodbye to him
June 25: Installation dinner at Tastebuds at 6:30 p.m. Dinner will be a buffet.
$35 per person. Please contact Mary Martin by June 11. No refunds after that
date. Checks payable to EH Rotary.
Announcements
Painting and fix up will take place at the homeless shelter at 385 Main Street
each Monday throughout June from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Help is needed. Dan
Dienst has a very interesting painting shirt. It says, "If a man speaks in the
forest and there is no woman there to hear him, is he still wrong?" (Must be a
rhetorical question.)
Bill Saunders pitched the golf tournament. Start getting sponsors!
John Shemo reported that the raffle has a long way to go. Proceeds will be used
to purchase a gazebo for the town green in celebration of our 75th anniversary.
Jack Ghagan thanked the parade committee for a job well done. He confidently
guaranteed that next year's parade will be bigger and better since the parade
was rained out this year.
FYI
Janice Dabate's resignation was accepted with regrets.
Neal Cunningham won the raffle.
Make-ups: Dee Blackwood (Enfield), Dave Amberg, Dan Firestone and Jack Sayre
were all working at Habitat for Humanity.
There was no program as President Bob's gift to the golfers. No golf either as
Mother Nature's gift to the flowers
There is no noon meeting on June 11, 2003.
Margaret LaCroix
Accustomed to ascending the highest point in East Hartford (Sunset Ridge) for
so many years, East Hartford Rotarians and their guests reached dramatic new
heights on this partly sunny late May day! We found our way, via still
unfinished roadways, from Silver Lane to the eighth wonder of the world, the new
Rentschler Stadium. Elevators were being tested and
checked out, so most of us had to ascend three flights of stairs to our assembly
site, the social function room (still unfinished) adjacent to a glass enclosed
tier of upholstered seats about mid-field. There, with a spectacular view of
Pratt & Whitney and U-Tech we paid ten dollars for box lunches ala John M.,
taking them and our green card to the seats overlooking the field of new grass,
freshly mowed.
Your scribe had visions of gladiators engaged in mortal combat, then of
Christian martyrs facing Caligula’s hungry lions, and most vivid of all the
Tufts U. football team overwhelming Bates College. Believe me, I was not using
any substance, just a vivid imagination at work! Anyway, what the actual
"league" will be is still up in the air, so to speak. The Rentschler facility is
certainly awesome, an eloquent statement about the big business of
intercollegiate athletics. President Bob managed to get our attention as we were
finishing our sandwiches and introduce our host, Jack Freeman, Director of
Stadium Operations. He, in turn, introduced Phil McClellan, Coliseum Management
Director and Al Masik, CT State Police, in charge of traffic control and safety
operations. There followed a brief Q & A session after which we were led on a
tour, going up, up to the Press Box, and down, down to the U-Conn locker room,
lots of walking and stair climbing. The facility is in active finishing mode
pointing to the first big event on August 8, the Connecticut State Games which
will attract at least 25,000 people.
Bill Leone moved among us getting reservations for the SA party to be held at
the Leone residence on June 11, starting around 4 PM. This is always a highlight
of the year, so ably and warmly hosted by Bill and Beverly. Please let Bill know
you are coming, ASAP. Never to be outdone, PP Mary M. was eagerly signing up
folks for the Annual Installation Banquet to be held at Tastebuds June 25th at
6:30 PM. Reservations at $35 per person need to be made with Mary by June 11th.
No refunds after that date. Check in with Mary soon. This is a major event for
our Club as we thank President Bob for his year and welcome President-elect Neal
who takes command July 1st. As the rainy month of May now gives way to what we
hope will be a sunny June, we wonder what happened to Springtime in Connecticut.
But it won’t be long before Autumn’s leaves provide a colorful backdrop for "big
time football" at Rentschler Stadium in the center of Connecticut, East
Hartford. Let us hope there will, indeed, be long-term benefit for our Town, our
State, our University, our Society from this enormous investment of scarce
resources. Time will tell. We may well have to check the instant replay booth!
The nature of today’s meeting precluded announcements, makeup cards, visitor
lists, flag salute, welcome song, Rotary song, invocation. Not even a bang on
the old gong. An historic occasion it surely was. Be well, enjoy each day for
the gift it is, live Rotary Yours in service above self.
Perambulatin’ Parson
The Ridge gave shelter from a much-needed spring rain, as East Hartford
Rotarians met to share in what Rev. Bill Flynn described as hallmarks of Rotary:
Fellowship, food, & the spirit of service. This scribe's table was graced with
the presence of Gloria Blackwood, sister-in-law to Dee, and gracious donor of
the Maui, Hawaii condo which our club offered as top prize in a long-ago raffle.
Fitting, this day, for Krause Caterers served us Hawaiian Chicken, a most
delightful repast! In the absence of Maestro Don Hallquist, President Bob
Richmond started the R-O-T-A-R-Y song all by himself! Take note, Neal, was this
your first song leader for next year?
Sign-up sheets abounded: for the May 28th tour of Rentschler Field (that's next
week!), June 11th Sgt. at Arms Party at Bill Leone's, and the big, big June 25th
Installation Banquet for incoming President Neal Cunningham. In the spirit of a
party, lyrics-writer Tom Westbrook gave enthusiastic verve to the Welcome Song.
Sgt. at Arms Bill Leone reported a bank-filling list of miscreants, to wit: Sue
Klock, for very acceptable dress-down attire; Doug Willett, a new truck; Herb
Barall and Larry Churchill, 11 and 19 year anniversaries; George Agnelli and
Lionel Lessard, birthdays; Carol Krantz, cell phone usage, repartee, and body
language unbefitting a gentleman; and victim-of-a-snitch Bill Saunders for
exemplary service as a "Flashy Pigskin Porter" about 30 years ago (you had to
be there!). Roy Spiller's 70th B.D. was also recognized by a generous gift to
the scholarship fund.
In a report on the EHHS Senior Citizen Prom, Sue Klock expressed her gratitude,
not only to Steve Tamiso and many Rotary workers, but also to Shop-Rite and Big
Y for financial support. Sue made note of the lack of support from Stop and
Shop. Tsk, tsk
Other Announcements included:
· Memorial Day Parade: Assemble 8:30-9:00AM behind "Natural Bodies" on Wells St.
Bring aprons w/pockets (for candy for the chillun); lots of old cars and new
trucks on hand, and Rotary walkers (& riders) will be most welcome.
· We're sending 2 students to RYLA.
· John Shemo reported over 400 raffle tickets sold; expenses appear to be
covered, now working on the profit! Workers: call your captains w/results!
· Town Shelter rehabilitation: Workdays every Monday in June, 9 to 3PM.
Due to dropped tickets, Raffle-winners today were Dan Firestone and Roy Spiller.
Bob Wood can take credit for providing a most informative speaker, Jack Freeman,
Director of Stadium Operations for Rentschler Field. With facts and figures too
numerous to list here, Jack works for MSG, manager of the new stadium, and told
of being with the construction process since last fall. He's very enthusiastic
about what has been built there on the old airfield: 38,000 seats (expandable to
50,000), a three-tier tower with 38 luxury suites, press boxes and the Coliseum
Club, a large screen Video Matrix board (24'x32'), 1,300 indoor and 4,000
outdoor "club" seats, tail-gating areas on 17 acres of grass parking lots, and
mile-long asphalt parking areas (the old runways). Concessions will be "manned"
by local groups, and, with a percentage of the sales, would appear to be a good
fund-raising project for us in the future.
When arriving at the regular time next week, turn from Silver Lane into the
entrance opposite Simmons Road. Follow around to the right on the asphalt drive
and park behind the stadium (you'll see other cars there). Really quite
exciting, this venture into Division 1-A football, and something special, having
it here in East Hartford! Good program, Bob; thanks for bringing it to us!
A pleasure to be subbing for Roger Nicholson...and good to be together! Arthur
Your scribe for May arrived at VMC right at twelve
noon, but there were many eager Rotarians already milling around the ticket
table. One sensed the anticipation of friendships being renewed. Marcia told me
you get no discount for the exact amount, but no harm in asking. Seniors get
discounts at lots of places! Then I remembered, Rotarians are ageless! Don
arrived a tad late but still managed to coax some melodies out of the beat up
piano.
Ted Mosebach gave today's invocation, thoughtful and pertinent to Rotary's
spirit of service. We then sat down to a luncheon of fried chicken, creamed
beets, oven roasted potatoes, rolls and butter, with strawberry rhubarb pie for
dessert. Heart-healthy it wasn't. Mine talked back all afternoon, and 1 had no
purple pill. Maybe incoming President Neal's installation repast will be better,
on June 25 at Tastebuds. Social hour at 6:30 and dinner at 7:15. $35 per person.
Sign up soon. Don H. played the Welcome Song exuberantly for June Cramer, guest
of Don, and for Narender Bhardwaj, guest of Bindu Sidlu. I had the pleasure of
sharing their table and we had a fascinating conversation about India and its
diversity.
Sergeant at Arms Bill Leone reported "another good day", to whit: Dan Russell
contributed for being best in show (art league); Birthdays for Jim Watts and
Marcia LeClerc (Club sang boisterously in unison) and for Roy Spiller who
requested John Mazzicato sing as a sign of penance for something or other, which
John did, in an abbreviated version. Bill then fined Marcia whose cell phone
went off Tie shows no mercy!
Neat Cunningham and Bill Saunders made an informative presentation about the
annual Golf Tournament, Monday, September 22, Basically the same overall format
as last year, except fee' will be lower to enter ($150). Neal wants to use the
proceeds for our local community and spoke of the School Business Partnership
and some of the exciting things which the funds will make possible. We need 120
sponsors this year, so it's not too soon to invite businesses and companies.
John Shemo updated us on the raffle ticket sales. We have yet to reach the basic
amount to offset the prizes! A-Team has sold 100; Out-of-Towners, 56; Paul
Harris 42. These are the three top teams. We need to get moving on this project!
Jack Ghagan reminded us that the Memorial Day Parade will have a Rotary
contingent. Everyone is welcome to march. We will be Unit 4 behind the Boy
Scouts of America, Steve Jacoby continues to hawk Rotary caps and shirts; see
Steve soon to get yours; these items help advertise Rotary at events like the
Golf T, and Parade. Ticket number 876-501 was held by luck winner Bill Secord
today. I missed by eleven digits! Steve J, reminded us the Saratoga race day
outing is set for August 9'. Save the date and start working on. the picks!
Jim Shea introduced today's excellent speaker from the CT State Police
Department of Public Information office in Middletown. Roger Beaupre was
commissioned a Trooper in 1985,14e follows in his father's footsteps, a law
enforcement officer killed in the line of duty. Ct State Police Department is
100 years old this year. In 1903 the Legislature established "The Law and Order
League" with five officers who were paid $3.00 a day. Today there are 1,241 men
and women from highly diverse backgrounds in the Department. Only about 400 are
uniformed (the ones we see on the highways). 21 officers have died in the line
of duty. CT was the first State to have a police division. Roger described the
various, and many, departments of the State Police, a broadly based law
enforcement program second to none 'n the USA. It was a very interesting and
informative talk.
Rotarians Wood, Amberg and Wishart made up at Habitat for Humanity; Herb
Tishover made up in Naples Bay, FL. Rotarians assisting with The Senior Prom
were: Barall, Amberg, Stewart, Bradbury, Wood McCarthy, Wishart, Schoen,
Hallquist, Jacoby, Willett, Saunders, Tamiso, Porteous, Martin, Cunningham,
Collins, Collins, Ghagan, Firestone and Secord.
Glad we could share another Rotary mid-week fellowship as free men and women.
Let us count our blessings and serve our community, Until next week
Perambulatin' Parson
The merry month of May was just one week old as East Hartford's Rotarians
gathered on the hilltop this warm Spring day.
Don Hallquist's keyboard artistry produced familiar tunes barely audible above
the cacophony of good friends renewing acquaintance. Arriving a bit en retard
Marcia LeClerc relieved a slightly overwhelmed Carol Krantz at the ticket table
while Spurgeon Stokes calmly peddled raffle tickets. Taking my seat I watched
the "Wild Animal Show" also know as George's Mongoose Mayhem. More than one
Rotarian was startled!
Following our customary opening ritual we enjoyed a cup of corn chowder, a tasty
chicken salad and corn bread, with ice cream for dessert. A nice summer
luncheon!
We sang the Welcome Song to Nancy Richmond and Nacho, our Spanish exchange
student, both guests of President Bob. Jack Ghagan insisted that we also welcome
Herb Tischofer, newly returned from Florida, but there was no reprise.
Sergeant Arms Bill Leone reported miscellaneous fines for badges missing, early
leavers, latecomers, etc. Birthdays were noted for Herb Tischofer and Bob Brown
who requested silence, but Spurgeon Stokes asked for a standing rendition of
Happy Birthday from the entire Club. We raised the roof!
John Shemo beat the drum for raffle ticket sales; with seven weeks to go we have
to sell a lot more. A-Team has sold 79; Paul Harris 41; others 25. Call in your
sales by Sunday evening each week. Contact your team leader for more tickets.
President Bob reported Ruth Sheehan has been poorly with a touch of pneumonia.
Cards would be a good idea.
Neal Cunningham thanked all who were so helpful at District Conference with our
Hospitality Suite, both the food donors and the "wait staff" volunteers. John
Mazzicato was especially generous.
Bill Saunders held the right ticket today and Nacho drew it from Spurgeon's box!
Today's program, though brief, was poignant. Art Bradbury gave a quick review of
our Club's rich involvement in the Rotary Youth Exchange Program through the
years. After a hiatus in recent years we did welcome Nacho from Spain last Fall.
He has enjoyed hospitality in three families: Fred Campbell's daughter and
family, Kathy and Iwan Kurniawan (not Rotarians); Art and Charlotte Bradbury;
and Bob and Nancy Richmond. Nacho now moves in with Bill Secord's family for the
remainder of his stay in the U.S.A. Art presented Nancy and Bob a certificate of
appreciation for their being host parents. He also urged us all to consider
being hosts in the new Rotary year. East Hartford Rotary hosted 25 students, but
only 13 families have participated. Nancy and Bob shared their initial anxiety
which quickly turned into enthusiasm for Nacho's life with them.
Don Hallquist had to leave early so Bob closed the meeting with a tap of the
bell and we dispersed into the world to pursue "service above self."
Until we meet again.
The Perambulatin' Parson
HIGH GEAR for April 30, 2003 (Senior Citizens' Prom Day) -not yet received for publication
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