High Gear Archives 2006

Hardly anyone paid attention to the inspirational song that Pres Dan played, “The Gift”. I’d say, play it again Sam.

Kathy McCabe took high honors today for the fur of unknown origin that graced her shoulders.

If you like pot roast, potatoes and butternut squash, then you would have enjoyed today’s bill of fare.

Guests today included Michael Kowalczyzk, son-in-law of Mo Moshovos, John O’Connor, the not so handsome Fred Campbell, Scott and Roger Sayre, sons of Jack and Charlotte Bradbury. Pres Dan saluted our good friend Jerry who has maintained the Ridge in good order and has been employed for 49 years.

Irish tenors Carmen “The Hit Man” Piscatello and ”Dixie” Dean Roland welcomed one and all.

Our diligent and quick witted Sergeant-at-arms, Tim Larson nailed Larry Frazier and Don Pitkin for photos. There were many Rotary anniversaries and one anonymous birthday. Bill Saunders coughed up a lot of dough for his 45^th wedding anniversary.

Jack Sayre announced nominations are open for the 2007 Vocational Service Award. He claims there is no form associated with the award. He stands corrected.

Roy Spiller is reported still taking chemo but doing well. Moe Belanger is due home today.

Pres Dan read a note of thanks from Jerry Cohen for the $1000 to support Talking Books.

Roger Nicholson sent a letter congratulating the club on making a donation to his favorite charity, Heifer project. He also sent a check for $300 to support the scholarship fund.

Bill Saunders has received only half of the committee preference sheets. Get ’em in!

Three proposed members are being referred to Rotary Info. They include Sheryl O’Connor, John Kelleher, and Guy LaBella. If you have any comments to make regarding their membership, please forward them to the membership committee.

Pres Dan initiated Chinese lessons with some simple English to Chinese translations.

Our great Presidential orator reviewed the last 6 months and reviewed the next six. Hats off to a terrific first six.

The halls were decked and so were our fellow Rotarians with fashionable attire. Great to see Sir Scott (Scotty Howat) who was sporting the “money” tie. Andy Andreo gets top prize for his carefully selected holiday necktie and suspenders. Lots of colorful red sweaters to add to the festive atmosphere. Paul Krantz was lost without his new Ferragamo shoes. Too bad his better half didn’t bother to do a sweep under the bed before departing their hotel room in Aruba. I can tell you (Paul) what you will not be getting for Christmas this year.

Dorothy Larson did a masterful job in providing a very thoughtful prayer to preface our meal.

Pres Dan provided each table with some holiday brain teasers to add to the already free flowing chatter. The Rotary four way test may have been violated as Nick Cecere was implicated with cheating.

Special guests included Lucille Bailey, Fred and Jeanette Campbell and Don and June Cramer.

The tried and true trio of Hallquist, Westbrook and Bradbury welcomed everyone with great showmanship.

A photo was unveiled capturing our President in one of his rare moments impersonating Porky the Pig. Quote of the day: “I may be a swine but Danny’s lips are mine”.

Dan was presented with a well deserved gift, a donation of a pig to the Heifer Project.

Last week’s bell-ringing brought in $686. Sir Scott will take his turn at the bell this Saturday.

Paul Harris winners this year -- non-Rotarian, Reggie Barall with dancing partner, Rotarian, Herb Barall.
(Not shown, Rotarian, Dan Firestone.)

Paul Harris award winners were announced. Congratulations to Dan Firestone and Herb and Reggie Barall.

Thanks to Kathy McCabe for the wonderful centerpieces and Ruth Sheehan for ensuring no cranky elves would sneak past the front door.

Willet, Larson and Galvin were decorated as Christmas trees in front of a live audience. Winner: Doug Willett with a ball lodged in his mouth Second place: Larson with a collection of ornamental balls hanging from the front of his pants. An explanation for the choice of winners was provided at the scribe’s table which did not warrant inclusion in High Gear.

The DJ started off with a Garth Brooks favorite, “Friends in Low Places” Classiest dance act: Leo Christmas, hands down.

Don Hallquist greeted Rotarians with several holiday tunes including Winter Wonderland, Jingle Bells and a snappy version of White Christmas. Lots of gifts adorned the vestibule today. Male attire today was generally drab with Apostol, Brown, and Shemo sticking with the camel hair. Some notable Christmas ties were worn by Hallquist and Shemo. H Barrall sported a notable floral arrangement necktie. Best sweaters worn by Danise and C Collins.

Guests: Joan Brow, Esther Clarke, DGE Dick Borden, Dave Flanagan, and Emil Kopcha. Marcia LeClerc will write “Borden” on the blackboard 100 times.

A fleet-footed Jack Sayre beat Spurge Stokes for first place in the buffet line.

Covering both ends of the age spectrum, Lori Göckler and Esther Clarke led the Welcome Song before another full house.

Our shaky hands president carefully pinned Lori Göckler with her permanent name badge.

A feisty Sgt-at arms Tim Larson noted fines for the President’s 40 ++ birthday and Don Pitkin for a Susan “I left my heart on Roberts St” Kniep remark.

Our club is in the mix to host the Italian Group Study Exchange team coming in April-May 2007. Get ready to man the pasta stations.

Jack Sayre reported the first two weeks of bell ringing netted $575 and $638 respectively. Andy Andreo was acknowledged for a very generous donation to the Salvation Army.

Bob Richmond announced a count of 103 for the holiday party Wednesday at Mt Carmel Hall, Roberts St. Cocktails at 6:00 and Dinner at 7:00.

President Dan acknowledged our wait staff Helen and Sue for their good work throughout the year. Dan is successfully working his way up from kissing livestock.

Pres-elect Bill Saunders asked for Rotarians to return their committee preference sheets by the end of the month. Don’t make him call you.

A very complimentary District Governor Elect Dick Borden presented the club with a $1000 check from the District Foundation for the recently erected scoreboard at McKenna Field.

Andrew Matos was welcomed as a new member. Andrew represents the youngest member ever to join the club at age 25. This reduces the club’s median age from 67.6 to 67.5.

A huge contingent from EHHS including a slice of their orchestra and their “New Edition” graced the halls with holiday melodies from Angels We Have Heard on High to Billy Joe’s Lullabye. Pres Dan’s niece, Joan Brow’s granddaughter and several others with family ties were represented.

Even all the hot air emitted by EH Rotarians didn’t warm up the arctic air temperatures at the clubhouse today.

Dress report: Lots of well worn turtlenecks, sweaters, sports jackets and Christmas ties. George Agnelli wins the prize today for the best tie. Camel hair jackets have replaced blue blazers as the club’s dress code for men for the ensuing cold weather months. The mystery of the decline of the mid-east camel population has now been solved. Let’s try to be more courageous next week guys. My money is on fashion hound Dan Russell to lead the way.

President-elect Bill Saunders attempted to show up recent past presidents by distributing

committee sign up sheets for the 2007-8 Rotary year far in advance. The ever efficient computer guru Sue Klock distributed club rosters. Dues invoices were distributed as well.

Previewing next week’s lunch, Miss Daisy, a handsome black pig was escorted into the room in a baby stroller to court President Dan. Dan looking for follow up foreplay (from last week) with Miss Daisy sensuously stroked Miss Daisy and sang a heart warming ballad. In spite of formidable resistance by the swine, Dan finally managed to slip her the tongue to the delight of the audience. A true Kodak moment if not the makings of a future Boar’s Head commercial.

Luncheon fare: hockey pucks to start followed by gas evoking Thanksgiving day leftovers. How do you spell relief? R O L A I D S.

Today’s guests: included several prospective members, Cheryl O’Connor, Andy Matos, Guy LaBella, and John Kelleher.

Sgt–at–Arms Report: Dan “Marathon Man” Larson’s report singled out Andy Matos paying to not be blackballed, Stu Harris for being an angel, Dick McCarthy for a clear conscience. (This is getting boring) Dan Russell and Tom Galvin paid for Dan Larson’s heavy petting with local swine, Art Bradbury for correcting the pronunciation of George “Schoen”

Holiday Fest: Kudos to the Ambergs, Schoens, L Göckler, Dorothy Larson, and S Jacoby and host Baralls.

Salvation Army bell ringing: Sayre thanks last week’s ringers ($570 collected) and was looking for someone to fill next Saturday’s 3:00 time slot.

Fruit sale: It’s here. Contact the Klock’s for pick up. Midnight pick ups – unacceptable.

Car raffle: Galvin would like ideas on the best ways to sell tickets for the Toyota Prius.

Holiday Party Dec. 20, 6:00 cocktails, 7:00 dinner: 92 signed up, Checks next week please, $35 pp, open bar, DJ. Contact Richmond or McCabe

Nominating committee report: delivered by a dark skinned Carol Krantz. Officers for 2007-8:

President, Bill Saunders; Pres-elect, Sue Klock; Sec’y, George Schoen; Treas, Bill Secord; Dir, Glen Peterson; Dir, Ceil Collins; Dir, Jim Fallon.

Today’s Speaker: Bob Galvin (brother of Tom), CT Commissioner of Health. Oversees 890 employees and a $77M budget. Spoke of pandemic flu, flu shots and health insurance.

Notice of annual meeting: Notice is hereby given that the annual meeting of the Rotary Club of East Hartford will be held on December 27, 2006 at 12:15 pm at the Veteran’s Memorial Clubhouse, Sunset Ridge Drive, East Hartford, CT for the purpose of electing officers for the 2007-2008 Rotary year, for the purpose of adopting a new club constitution and amended by-laws and for any other purpose that may legally come before the meeting.

A medley of Christmas music was Don Hallquist’s forte today. His music is always noteworthy. John Shemo offered a fitting invocation. President Dan, in mufti, that is, without his pig’s tail and ears, had a difficult time getting our attention so that he could announce that the jugs of brew on the tables were compliments of Olde Burnside Brewing Company. Cold Ten Penny Ale is dark, bitter, delicious.

Lunch was a green salad, ziti with mushroomed tomato sauce, a zesty sausage, all followed by dishes of tapioca pudding. Guests today included our speaker, Bob McClellan of Ten Penny Beer, Gerry Cohen from Talking Books, Sheryl O’Connor, guest of Tim Larson, Cate Evans (a former GSE Team member) from the South Windsor Club, and Andrew Matos, guest of Tim Larson. Andrew went through “Rotary Information” before the meeting and has been proposed as a new member.

President Dan called Donna Bys, Phyllis Demers, Tim Larson and Brian Liss to the podium, and presented them with their permanent name badges. He then instructed them to lead us in the Welcome Song, which they did with gusto.

Sergeant-at-Arms Mike Malinguaggio, standing in for Tom Galvin, reported no anniversaries, no birthdays, practically nothing to laugh at at all. There was some confusion about where the fine monies go—to scholarship, is case you did not remember. President Dan clarified.

Gerry Cohen, from Talking Books, was presented with a check for $1,000 for the recording program. She said that she was deeply grateful.

Reports on our members include that fact the Moe Belanger is still grouchy, which perhaps is a good sign. Jack Sayre said that Roy Spiller is still feeling the effects of chemotherapy. Jack is collecting bell ringers for the Salvation Army. He reported that even Scotty Howat wants to participate. Former member Rocky Alexander died recently. Steve Jacoby reminded us that Holiday Fest is this weekend, and that Herb and Reggie Barall will be showcased on Saturday evening. Our Holiday Party is Wednesday, December 20^th. Call Bob Richmond or Kathy McCabe for menu selections. We are urged to have our gifts for kids under the aegis of the Department of Social Services available by the 13^th. Suggestions, for kids from 1 to 12 years, include: car model kits and jewelry making kits for older children, Red Sox clothing (sweatshirts, caps, tee shirts) sports games, telescopes, microscopes, hand held electronic games, CD players, arts and crafts sets, drawing kits, blow dryers, curling irons, clock radios. Also: gift cards from Bob’s Stores, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Wal-Mart. Be sure to include batteries for toys that require them. Marcia Leclerc is selling a cookbook to benefit seniors. The Membership Committee will meet next Wednesday at 11:45 a.m. And remember that the Kiss a Pig Event is this Friday. President Dan wound up the announcements with his weekly joke. The raffle was won by Tim Larson.

Don Pitkin introduced Bob McClellan, our speaker. Bob owns and runs what used to be Burnside Ice, but which is now known, at least in part, as Olde Burnside Brewing Company, located on Tolland Street. Bob and his family got into the brewing business when they discovered that the well water they used for cooling part of the ice making operation was exceptional—it does not come from the Hockanum River—for its purity. Taste his beer and you’ll know that the water has to be good. Their products are Scottish style brews, made in equipment which came from Wyoming. It took them six months to assemble the four truck loads of parts and get the operation up and running. Using malt imported from England, they produce four seasonal brews, and well as a number of standbys. They are stocked at M&R Package Stores, among other retail outlets. The beers—ales, actually—are not filtered, not pasteurized, they are clear and clean. Olde Burnside initiated the summertime “Pipes in the Valley” a music and beer celebration, held on the banks of the Connecticut. Bob and his business is one of East Hartford’s treasures.

It’s time for me to pass the pen and pad to next month’s reporter. Thanks for reading my words. Dan Russell

A variety of cheeses, mini cold cuts, olives, and crackers, all to accompany generous glasses of wine, made the reception time before today’s meeting enjoyable. Conversation flowed. We finally made our way into the dining room, and sang, pledged our flag, and listened to the appropriate words of Gil Wishart who offered the invocation. The lunch menu included chicken breasts Marsala, risotto, green peas with tiny onions, and carrot cake.
President Dan, wearing a pig’s snout, ears, and tail, in honor of the upcoming Kiss a Pig for Scholarship, had a difficult time bringing the bunch of us to order. That’s what happens following a glass of wine. One member was heard to comment that is was difficult to recognize our president in his porcine disguise. Somewhat later in the meeting it was brought out that he was not wearing his medallion; no wonder he had difficulty leading us. Introduction of guests: Mike Lynch, Jr. of Lynch Motors, and Skip Guillemette’s boss; Frank Goeckler, husband of Lori; Gil and Rhoda Spencer of Glastonbury (he was selling Harley Davidson raffle tickets); Cheryl O’Connor, guest of Tim Larson; Dan Frye, of CNG, guest of George Agnelli; Priscilla Marrah of San Antonia, Texas, guest of Steve Jacoby; Linda Chamberlain and Cephus Nolen (and later, Mayor Melody Currey) of East Hartford Youth Services. Tim Larson led the Welcome Song which we started just as he escorted the Mayor into the room.
Dick McCarthy, acting Sergeant-at-Arms, reported one anniversary: Bob Richmond, eighteen years, and numerous donations for President Dan’s good looks.
There were numerous announcements. President Dan thanked Kathy McCabe, Dean Roland and Bob Richmond for putting together the pre-prandial reception. Moe Belanger is recuperating at Jefferson House, and apparently has gotten over some of his initial miserable-ness. Is that what it takes? The Chamber of Commerce and Goodwin College are sponsoring the Kiss a Pig fund raiser. President Dan remarked that he has a reputation to uphold, so let’s put lots of dollars (each one counts as a vote) in the big jug. Stuff it full. Last Saturday, fifty East Hartford needy kids got new coats at Burlington Coat Factory. This is a program initiated by the Kiwanis Club, which has disbanded. But the need goes on. They had some monies left in their treasury, so that helped underwrite the warm purchases on Saturday, and reduced our contribution. At the recent Board meeting, Art Bradbury spoke about talking books—Art has been recording for twenty years, is on his twenty-seventh book. The board voted to donate $1000 to the program, which is going into a new, updated, state of the art space at Raymond Library. The Board also voted to buy two Shelter Boxes. Our Annual Meeting will be December 27th which date also includes a wine and cheese reception. Bill Saunders, having spoken to Jacquie Danise, thanked the Club, on their behalf, for being such a wonderful, caring and sharing club. Our speaker next week will be from Burnside Ice, location of our own East Hartford brewery. The Friends of Raymond Library need a delegate—anyone interested? Our Annual Christmas giving for East Hartford kids, ages 1-12, normally coincides with our Christmas gathering, this year on the 20th, which is the day Social Services will be doing its distribution. So our gifts are due on the 13th of December. More about what is appropriate next week. Jack Sayre, standing in for Roy Spiller, made the plea for sign-ups to ring the bell for Salvation Army. This is our 18th year of ringing. We’ve raised $42,000 in that time. It’s fun, especially to see who gives and who doesn’t. There were a couple of funny stories connected with bell ringing. One was about the lady who asked Tom Galvin, years ago, bundled up against the cold: “Where do you folks sleep at night?” Roy has had another chemo treatment, a truly tough one. Been there, done that, for many of us. Holiday Fest will be December 1-4; we’re involved with the dance on the 2nd. Call Steve Jacoby if you want details. President Dan read a “recipe” for roasting a turkey, as his joke of the day. The raffle was won by Andy Andreo.
President Dan called Mayor Melody Currey, Linda Chamberlain and Cephus Nolen to the podium, and presented them with a gift of $15,000 for the East Hartford Youth Services Rope Program. Few of us realize how positive an effect that program can have on sixth graders, teaching them confidence, reliability, enthusiasm and passion. Those lessons can last a lifetime. Linda shared some touching aspects of the kid’s reactions and observations.
Our speaker today was one of our own, the Right Reverend Doctor Ted Mosebach. Ted began by quoting Yogi Berra, who said that if you don’t know where you are going, chances are you’ll end up someplace else. He pointed out that the Bible says the primary source and the secondary source of the good in our lives is God. We didn’t get to where we are just by ourselves. Remember that, and give thanks. He read a long quote from the Book of Moses, who credited God with helping with the escape from slavery in Egypt. Then, quoting a much more recent work Scott Peck’s “The Road Less Traveled,” which begins: Life is difficult. But somehow, especially for Ted, it worked out. Did it for you? Do you know how you did it? Be intelligent as a fox, gentle as a dove. Ted gave us a powerful, personal message. Thanks to Ted, and to all of our members, the Family of Rotary.

Our gathering today seemed noisy, with almost no preprandial music, lots of talk and chatter, chatter and talk. President Dan’s ring of the bell brought us to order, we sang, pledged allegiance to our nation’s flag. Dan Firestone offered the invocation, thanks for the almighty who brings forth bread from the earth. Lunch was really a dinner: slices of roast pork, accompanied by apple sauce, roasted potatoes, green beans, fresh rolls, followed by a plate of assorted cookies and brownies.

President Dan again rang the bell for order, while our plates were being cleared away and dessert was being served, so that there would be time for our announcements. For some reason the uphill side of our year always seems laden with information. Out of respect for the Shemo family, and the death of John’s father, the Saturday Carnivale has been postponed. No new date has as yet been established. Moe Belanger has fallen and broken his hip—at this point he requests no visitors, no phone calls—cards would be fine. Let us keep Moe, a great guy, in our thoughts and prayers Tom Galvin’s lovely wife Suzanne has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. Our president, a kind and sensitive person, had a difficult time with these disheartening announcements. He reminded us that we are the family of Rotary—let us not forget that. And it was great to have Jackie Danise and Bill Saunders back in our midst. We wish them continuing recovery.

Guests today: Andy Matos, proposed as a new member; Ted Marina, guest of Nick Cerere; and our speakers, Stacey Spewock and Gray Wright. More about them later. Steve Bates was called upon to lead the Welcome Song, having been told that he didn’t have to dance. Steve did okay, but he needs a basket in which to carry a tune.

Tom Galvin, Sergeant-at-Arms, had a small report: Art Bradbury’s 81^st birthday. Art was serenaded by all those members who were eighty or older—a goodly number.

More announcements: Jack Sayre had visited Roy Spiller, who is now experiencing good and bad days—that’s chemo, which you know if you’ve been through it. He gets more tests next week to find out how long the protocol will continue. Roy asks that we sign up for ringing the bell for the Salvation Army during December—we’ve done that for ages—this writer remembers a two hour stint in the middle of a blizzard. An hour is not difficult to give up and remember, almost guaranteed, you will see a number of your friends. Peter Klock has arranged for a citrus sale—an easy way to get a gift for someone, and to fill your own larder. Peter asked for orders today, or, by email, since he and Suzan will be away for a couple of weeks. Order forms were available on the tables. Boxes of grapefruit, oranges, mixed, plus apples, and mixed, a reasonable price, profit going to one of our charities. Pick up will be a specified time slot, per Suzan, at their Sunset Ridge House. Next week’s meeting: wine and cheese, and undoubtedly much conversation, beginning at 11:30 am. The Connecticut International Baccalaureate Academy has been honored as a Blue Ribbon School. Our Annual Holiday Party, Wednesday, December 20^th, at Mount Carmel Hall, will feature an interesting menu. Sign-up sheets were circulated. We will bring gifts—Toys for Tots—but we do not know the age group as yet. On Sunday, at the Burlington Coat Factory, 10 to 11 in the morning, Coats for Kids will take place—we are always involved—for some of East Hartford’s neediest. Our town’s annual Holiday Fest has held its kick-off—one of the featured programs will be a Dance Festival, Saturday, December 2^nd, orchestrated by Herb and Reggie Barall. One of our major fund raising activities this year will be the raffle of a Toyota Prius (1907 model on first hearing) which is somewhat of a hermaphrodite, in that it runs on both gasoline and electricity-a very poplar, economical, hard to get automobile. And, final announcement, we were well represented at the recent Foundation Dinner.

Jackie Danise pulled the winning raffle ticket: Steve Tamiso was the lucky winner.

Our speakers today were a young team, Stacey Spewock, President, and Gray Wright, Executive Director, of the Greater Hartford Jaycees. Membership in the Jaycees is limited to the ages of 21 to 40—which puts their average age below the average age of our club. The Jaycees are a vibrant and outgoing, having begun the Greater Hartford Open (that’s golf) in 1952, with a purse of $10,000. The last purse was $4.2 million. Times change. They have locked in the date for the Greater Hartford Open for the next four years—June 18-24 in 2007, it is the time slot following the US Open --these young people are really with it. The group, which has an active membership of approximately 200, gives approximately $500,000 annually to charities—they will be distributing 3000 turkey dinners this coming Saturday, for instance. We have many members who began their Community Service Careers as Jaycees. Stacey and Gray, their first Executive Director, gave us a lot of insight into the Jaycees. They do a weekend leadership training session for high school sophomores. They give educational scholarships. Their challenge is to grow in membership—just like us. And their “graduates” often go on to become Rotarians! Stacey and Gray fielded a few questions from the floor before it was time to close the meeting, which we did with one verse of God Bless America.

Makeups: Sam Leone, West Palm Beach, Florida, Sunrise, three times; Herb Tischofer, Naples Bay, Florida, twice, Doug Willett, Cape Coral, Florida, once, and Frank Collins: Edison, New Jersey, RLI Faculty, and Frank and Ceil Collins, Dryden, New York (Keynote Speaker, Charter Night) and Binghamton, New York, Speaker, Foundation Seminar.

It is great to be a Rotarian—we can make a difference. Dan Russell

It was a delight to arrive at “The Ridge” to be welcomed by today’s official greeter, Lori Göckler, with a bright smile and a firm handshake, both very nice on a gray and drizzly day. Don Hallquist’s music was, as always, another day-brightener. It was nice to be back at our usual meeting place, there seemed to be no ghosts or goblins lurking in dark corners. Following the ringing of the bell, our opening song, the pledge to our nation’s flag, Ted Mosebach offered thanks especially for the democracy in which we live, the options it affords us, the bounty which we all enjoy, and the hope that we might see and know peace in our time.

Lunch was beef stew—lots of mushrooms and carrots—in an acorn squash shell, coleslaw, and chocolate pudding topped with whipped cream (My wife wished I’d brought all mine home)

President Dan rang the bell for business before dessert had been served. Guests today: Andy Matos, proposed, this reporter believes, as a new member, and Bob Dugger from the Glastonbury Club. Herb Barall led the Welcome Song, and didn’t dance a step.

Sergeant-at-Arms Tom Galvin collected fines as follows: Jack Sayre, anniversary, twenty six years; George Agnelli and John McNaughton, both for doing business; Bob Wood for his picture on the front page of the Gazette; and Lionel Lessard and Tim Larson for sitting with fifty percent of the women present at the meeting. Perhaps that is the advantage of being young. There were a few late comers; and Glen Peterson volunteered a fine, because his wife was auditioning in Providence for a program entitled “America’s Funniest Wives” and Glen was fearful that he might be mortified.

Announcements: Sue and Peter Klock were away in New Jersey (methinks) at a leadership forum; they sent thanks for the response of love and sympathy from the “Rotary Family” on the death of Peter’s father who died last week. Paul Harris Fellows will meet next week, 11:00 am, to consider new candidates to become members of that august group. Steve Jacoby announced that the kick-off reception for this year’s Holiday Fest will be tomorrow, November 9^th, Goodwin College, 5:00 - 6:30. CARNIVALE is coming up. It promises to be a fun evening. Tom Westbrook has constructed cases to store some 72 chairs, which we own, in the basement. Bill Saunders underwent a second surgery on his eye on Tuesday, for a detached retina. His surgeons consider it successful; Bill will remain in what sounds like a very uncomfortable posture for at least a week, to aid healing. Keep him in your thoughts and prayers. Jackie Danise is also doing well following surgery. And Roy Spiller seems to be up and about, despite chemotherapy, but avoiding crowds. It will be good to seem him back in our midst. Up-coming events: Wine and cheese before our meeting: November 22^nd, 11:30 A.M. Holiday Party, December 20^th, Cocktails at 6:00 PM, Dinner at 7:00 PM, Mount Carmel Hall.

President Dan had (read) his what he considered an obligatory joke. This reporter opines that perhaps his own spontaneous wit is funnier, and more appropriate, than some of the canned stuff. Enough said.

Raffle: ticket drawn by an always trusted attorney, Bill Leone: winner, Steve Jacoby.

By-laws and Constitution: First, the constitution and its wording is mandated by Rotary International, so there is little for us to consider other than filling in the blanks of our name and location and time of meeting. Proposed changes to the by-laws are essentially gender items, deletion of specific (i.e., required) committees, correction of typographical errors, and the changing of the responsibility for overseeing some committees from one director to one or more directors. We will consider this all and vote on the changes at the annual meeting to be held in December. It is to be assumed that revised copies, incorporating the changes and correction made from the floor, will be made available to the club members prior to the annual meeting.

Tom Galvin, speaking on behalf of the Ways and Means Committee, discussed our 2006/2007 budget—where we expect to expend charitable/scholarship monies, and where our revenue sources are. We’re going to need to raise $12,000 or more by the end of our fiscal year to meet our budget goals. Ideas include raffling a car (other clubs make huge amounts on motorcycles!) a poker night, a wine tasting, a pancake breakfast combined with an auction, a Rotary Night at a Wolf Pack Game. We need to involve everyone in the Club for a fund-raiser to be successful. Any great ideas, impart them to Tom.

And we talked about Fireside Chats, and the ways in which we can get to know one another, especially new members, better.

Time ran out, so we ended the meeting, after which, as members were already walking out, Mike Maliguaggio moved adjournment.

Peter Klock is in charge of this fundraiser, which is is focused on raising funds to enable us to purchase dictionaries to distribute among all East Hartford’s third-grade students — a club literacy project spearheaded by Sue Klock and Ceil Collins..

This All Saints Day was bright, beautiful, with warmth that was almost spring-like—lest us not be led astray, the weather is guaranteed to change. We gathered at South Congregational Church, home church for many of our members, which church is kind enough to open its doors and let us meet in Charrier Hall while our usual space at Veterans Memorial Clubhouse is turned over to the ghosts and ghouls for a month long Halloween Fest sponsored by our Town’s Parks and Recreation Department. We’ll be back at the “Ridge” next week, so be wary of spirits who have not left the premises as yet.

Don Hallquist’s music was a delight (as always). President Dan finally found the mallet and rang the bell; we sang, saluted our flag, and Art Bradbury, with apparently instantaneous notice, offered a most fitting invocation, giving thanks for our flag, the beautiful Fall day, for George Stewart’s presence, after many an absence of many weeks, the fellowship of Rotary, and the meal. The meal turned out to be tossed salad with a lot of red leaves, chicken breasts a la some sort of sauce with included mushroom slices, scalloped potatoes, followed by a slice of what the waitress called pumpkin pie. It nourished us.

Guests: this reporter did not note who tried to introduce Ruth Sheehan as a guest—she is a member—but we did have some true guests today: Mark Pappa, MDC Commissioner, don’t know his club, Andrew “Andy” Matos, proposed as a new member (good choice), Rick Lawrence of Manchester and Mark Greer (ADG) of Glastonbury acting in an official capacity of presenting a program about waterworks in Guatemala—more about that later. Phyllis Demers (she has really earned her permanent badge) and Jack Sayre led the Welcome Song.

Sergeant at Arms Tom Galvin, back from a sybaritic trip to Italy (which obviously clouded his senses except that of humor) reported fines as follows: no known number birthday, Larry Frazier; fifth, anniversary, George Shoen; on a serious note Tom reported that Bill Saunders and Jackie Danise are both doing well (after surgery), as is apparently Roy Spiller, who is avoiding crowds for the moment. Let us keep them all in our thoughts and prayers. It was great to have George Stewart back in our midst.

Announcements: Jim Watts: Paul Harris nominations are due, preferably before the meeting of PHF’s scheduled for November 15^th, 11:0 am, before the regular Wednesday meeting. Carnivale is coming up—the menu sounds great, the evening should be enchanting. Sign up before the seats are gone. Remember, we meet next week at “The Ridge.” Peter Klock reported that he and Susan had sent, via UPS, a Shelter Box to the UN in New York, to emphasize the fact that there are still more than 10,000 people in Pakistan still without housing, following the devastating earthquakes which were, how long ago, was it almost a year? Peter and Sue are, again, mounting a fruit sale: red grapefruit, orange, apples, great eating, buy by the box, delivery early in December. YMCA will benefit from the profit. President Dan gave (read) his obligatory weekly joke. We had the raffle, won by Moe Belanger Good on Moe, as the Aussies say.

Program: an excellent presentation by ADG Mark Greer and Rick Lawrence: some of the ins and outs of water—fresh water, which we get by the turn of a handle in our kitchens and bathrooms—and how it is desperately needed in some villages in Guatemala. The District, specifically Area Six, intends to fund a project whereby fresh water will be piped to a tiny village which is home to about fifty families. Bringing water in, also the means of developing a way to dispose of the waste—in Guatemala, that involves filters, simple latrines, and as an adjunct, simple stoves (built of concrete block) to replace on-the-floor cooking fires. Guatemala is a beautiful country, with active volcanoes, lush valleys, beautiful people. They need our help—a most worthwhile project.. This will be discussed at our Club Assembly, next meeting.

Make ups: Steve Jacoby, Glastonbury; Herb Tischofer, Naples Bay, Florida, twice.

It was eleven months ago that this scribe last reported--how quickly most of a year goes by! Time to bring out the dictionary and the thesaurus. Thanks for reading my words. Dan Russell

A blustery fall day. Perfect for visiting the newly renovated East Hartford YMCA. The physical plant is just beautiful. Another reason to be proud of our community.

The Faux Reverend James Fallon gave a Luke-warm blessing to our gathering (with my apologies for the pun to St. Luke). We had such good attendance that some special members were seated at the head table. Or were they just late? Our caterers presented a meal of chicken, rice, and peas with a jello dessert featuring black cherries and whipped cream.

Guests included repeat Andy Matos and new visitors Cheryl O’Connor of 3D Asset Management and Armand Cortez, Past President and two-time Paul Harris from the Ridgefield Rotary Club. Tim Larson tried to accommodate President Dan’s “key” (way too low) for leading us in the Welcome Song. Don Hallquist, please, please, bring your keyboard. We need you! Desperately.

This was supposed to be Mike Malinguaggio’s final Sergeant At Arms report since it is the last week in October, but apparently Tom Galvin will not be back in time next week from a trip overseas. So we are stuck, I mean blessed, with Sgt. Mike for the near future. His report included anniversaries for Celia Collins (’96), Larry Frazier (’67), and “Marcy” McCabe (’93 or ninety-three years old… you look great, Kathy!). A find was paid by the Sarge for appearing on TV as an Inland Wetlands Commissioner reviewing the Cabela’s project at Town Hall. Somehow we missed seeing Jim “Rick” Reik.

Announcements: Paul Harris nomination forms are on the website or speak to Jim Watts; our calendar has been updated on the website by Sue Klock (with more revisions to come); Bill Leone reminded us that we should review the By-Laws and Constitution proposed changes prior to our November 8 Club Assembly. Votes on changes will take place at the Annual Meeting in December. Carnivale party night is fast approaching. Sign up with John Shemo or be in danger of missing the social highlight of the Rotary year.

More announcements: Steve Jacoby announced that we will again be a presence at the Town’s annual Holiday Fest on December 2^nd. Volunteers are needed to assist at the refreshments table at the Community Center (new members note: this is a fun and “no heavy lifting” way to participate in a community service activity). Everyone is invited on November 9 to a cocktail reception from 5-7 p.m. at Goodwin College as a thank you to all of us for helping out with Holiday Fest. Please bring food or a financial contribution to the Fuel Bank. RSVP your attendance to the Chamber of Commerce at 289-0239.

Steve also made mention that he will be exhibiting articles of apparel with the Rotary logo on them for future purchase. Check in with suggestions and look over the quality of his samples.

As the kids say, here is a “shout out” to our members who have recently undergone operations or are under the weather. Drop a line to George Stewart, Roy Spiller, Jackie Danise and Bill Saunders. Best wishes for speedy recoveries to you all!

Godfather Carmen Piscatello announced Steve “Gimp” Bates as the winner of the raffle. Steve will use the money for physical therapy or beer, we hear.

Please try to help set up tables and chairs at 10:40 a.m. at South Congregational Church for our meeting next Wednesday, November 1^st.

Social Events Committee – plan to meet next Wednesday at 11:30; same for the Membership Committee.

Make-ups: Frank Collins spent five days at Rotary HQ in Evanston, and Steve Jacoby represented us at the Rotary Leadership Institute in Chicopee on October 14^th.

It was a pleasure to hear new member, today’s host, nine-months-old Patrick’s dad, and guest speaker, Brian Liss, give a talk today on the programs and renovations to the East Hartford YMCA. As Executive Director, Brian was able to point out the strong similarities between the mission of the Y and that of Rotary. There was an overwhelming show of hands among our membership when it was asked how many of us have had some supporting connection to the Y. Their local and international services in offering safe harbor and life skills building for children have touched so many lives. Right here in East Hartford there is a Teen Center, gym, child care facilities, swim club, and so much more in after school programming. All of it providing a positive alternative for kids to spend their time. Thanks to folks like the Stewart’s, the Bradbury’s, the Wood’s, Hyacinth Douglas-Bailey, and many other Rotarians, our East Hartford YMCA can provide these much-needed services. It was obvious that Brian is the right guy to be at the helm for changing times when needs persist.

As Empress of the World, and with the acquiescence of you kind readers, I would like to dispense with the normal order of reporting events in High Gear and start with the last item of the meeting. Doug Willett’s incisive report on behalf of the Membership Committee pointed out that without an all out blitz, there will be no rosy future for East Hartford Rotary and, therefore, no High Gear.

Here are a few salient points: Doug was able to compare our membership profile with that of 1989 thanks to keeping records from his year as President. Membership has dropped from 103 to 83; average age has increased to 68.7 years. Only 27 members are under the age of 65. While age brings wisdom in most cases, it also usually marks a time when active business activities and networking begin to decrease and other issues such as ill health or seasonal and permanent relocation take place. The end result is the erosion of participation in Club activities and a decline in our collective ability to find and attract new members.

We all know East Hartford gets a job done (see President Dan’s report below from his visit to the District Area 6 meeting). The Membership Committee has developed suggestions for turning back this trend. We can set goals with deadlines, hold forums for more in-put, and implement stronger advertising and recruitment mechanisms. We can especially target the top ten employers in town (none of whom have representation among our membership). We meet for a Club Assembly on November 8^th. Please bring your ideas to the table so we can ensure that the future of East Hartford Rotary is as bright as our past.

With a ring of the bell in the auditorium of South Congregational Church, our meeting was underway on what proved to be an authentic Indian Summer day. Glen Peterson’s invocation was the simple yet moving Japanese benediction of “Itadakimas”. The translation being that we give thanks for all who have contributed to the process of bringing this meal before us, from the farmers to the caterers and every step in between.

Our only guest was Andy Matos, a project manager for development activities at Rentschler Field with the Matos Group. Not a guest but so good to see Larry Churchill again. Looking good, Larry. The “2 L’s”, Lionel and Lori, led the Welcome Song with great gusto.

I’m not really sure I have any of Sergeant-At-Arms Mike Malinguaggio’s SHORT report correct. A group photo of our new members made it into the District Newsletter (I’m guessing thanks to Don Hallquist); Don Pitkin was fined for his umpteenth appearance in the Gazette; John Mazzacato paid in memoriam for the Yankees (sorry, John, but the only “Y” word this scribe is interested in is Yawkey Way); and congrats to Jim Fallon on the birth of grandson Owen Patrick. The Sarge would like us to make a proper show of it next week when we visit the YMCA so please wear a tie. Maybe run a comb through your hair, if you still have any.

Lots of announcements: Jim Watts would like more nominations for Paul Harris Fellow. Forms are on our website thanks to Sue Klock. Gil Wishart let us know we can purchase $8 tickets to this Saturday night’s Ham and Bean Supper (6 p.m.) to be held at South Congregational Church. Bring your own Beano.

More: Ceil Collins says the Lung Association on Ash Street will have flu shots available on November 1 from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m.. Do not know what the charge is. Sue Klock says all kinds of useful forms are on our website and get in touch with her if you want to attend the Foundation Dinner. Mike Malinguaggio invited us to join him and Jim “Rick” Reik at a joint meeting of the Inland Wetlands Commission and Planning and Zoning Commission to discuss construction of Cabela’s at Rentschler. Unfortunately, by the time you read this the meeting will have been held. The Town’s website will have minutes and it will be taped by Channel 5, though.

And more: Bill Secord says we can get a financial break on attending a three-day seminar on the “Triumph of the Sports”. Bill’s gonna love this, but I forgot to get more on the particulars. Drat! Bill would never have made such an amateurish mistake. Neal Cunningham thanked the folks who worked Saturday at the Marathon Water Station (Rosemary, Ceil, Frank, Kathy, Dan and Dorothy, Bob and Debby, Dave A., Empress, Gil, Pat, Don H., Brian, and Dan F. – did I miss any body?). Our thanks to Neal for getting us involved in one of the few truly hands on projects we do every year.

Still more: A whopping big Thank You to George Schoen, Jim Fallon, and the rest of the Golf Tournament Committee for all their hard work. Their efforts, and ours, resulted in a final fundraising tally of $25,139.

Don Hallquist attested to the great job President Dan did on the night of the 17^th in accepting a Proclamation from Mayor Melody Currey and the East Hartford Town Council for our contributions to continue the Youth Services’ ROPEs program. Our Board has officially voted to donate $15,000 from the Golf Tournament to their Adventure Builds Character program.

Raffle was won by Glen Peterson who amusingly donated his winnings to the Rotary Foundation in the name of its chief supporter, Carmen Piscatello.

And the Area 6 meeting that President Dan attended: His report indicated just how far ahead of the curve our Club is in meeting this year’s District goals. East Hartford leads the way in many things and always with consistency.

Next week’s meeting (October 25^th) we meet at the East Hartford YMCA on Main Street. The week after (November 1^st) we return to South Congregational.

No time for a closing song, there was just too much good to hear. See you next week!

East Hartford Rotarians made their way to South Congregational Church to the jazzy welcome tunes of the bow-tied Don Hallquist. Don’s attire was in deference to the admonishment made last week by Sergeant At Arms, Mike “Mighty Mouse” Malinguaggio that we are going to seed in our haberdashery. Ladies exempt, of course. Anyway, it was a clip on.

Amateur “Padre” and President Dan Larson offered up a minute of silence on behalf of the Yankees, then professional Reverend Ted Mosebach persevered through liturgical strains of music to really give the blessing. He has the patience of a saint. Oops! Right church, wrong pew!

We had not even been served lunch (roast pork, yam, broccoli, and chocolate cake) when Johnny Dangerous Shemo donned his Carnivale masque. Hey, John, what did you do with the money your parents gave you to take dancing lessons with? After sashaying around a bit, announcement of the November 18th Carnivale was made. Reservations will only be accepted for the first 100 to sign up so check your calendars from now. You will get a full evening’s entertainment from Salade to Sambucca for only $25 per person. Cocktails at 6 p.m. with dinner to follow all happening at the Veterans’ Memorial Clubhouse.

Our only non-speaking guests were Andy Matos, Operations Manager for the Matos Group of Rentschler Development fame, and District Governor Elect Dick Borden. The “Has Been Duo”, Past President Carol Krantz and soon-to-be former member Dan Dienst enthusiastically led us through the Welcome Song. Dan, our Club and our community is so very sad to see you and Loretta go. Our loss will most definitely be Texas’ gain.

Sergeant Mike made his way to the podium from his place of banishment (one week as S-At- A and already he has to eat alone) to give the weekly report. Note to all: please don’t mob Mike with announcements, etc., the very moment you enter the hall. He hates the pressure and when Mike ain’t happy, ain’t gonna be nobody happy. A very Happy Birthday to Osama Moe Bin Belanger. A donation by Dan Russell for the purchase of a very used truck was reported; and that was about it. The report was about as short as….oh, never mind.

President Dan gave a “shout out” to Loren Andreo for his return to the fold. On a sadder note, our condolences to the Shemo family with the loss of John’s sister. And please keep George Stewart and Roy Spiller on your ‘thinking of you’ list. We hear Peg Spiller was not well lately, either. Please keep her in your thoughts as well.

Marathon Water Station volunteers: this Saturday no later than 7:30 a.m. at Pitkin Street. Dress appropriately as it promises to be a chilly morning.

Short takes: Ideas to promote Rotary at the up-coming Holiday Fest? Let the Prez know. Golf Queen Kathy McCabe won the raffle. Tune in to the East Hartford Town Council meeting Tuesday the 17th on community TV Channel 5 to see our Club be given a Proclamation by the Town Council as a thank you for supporting the R.O.P.E.s Program.

Please tell Sue Klock ASAP if you plan to attend the Foundation Dinner (it’s $45 per person payable to District 7890; to be held November 10 at the Basketball Hall of Fame). There is a new toll-free contact number and email address for The Rotary Foundation: 1-866-9ROTARY or contact.center@rotary.org

Make-ups: all were from Celia and Frank Collins. Are we missing some? The Collins’ could be found at Hershey, PA, Longmeadow MA, Nashua, NH, and Meriden, CT. Sometimes singly, sometimes together.

Our guest speaker today was Past District Governor Tom Vorhees. His topic on the work done by The Rotary Foundation made clear to us how its mission of promoting world peace and understanding is supported so diligently by the family of Rotary. Education, humanitarian, and cultural exchange programs like the Ambassadorial Scholarship, Group Study Exchange, and matching and Simplified grants are all made possible by the contributions of Rotarians. The Polio Plus Program, in effect since 1985, has raised $600 million as the largest private health care initiative in the world. The terrible scourge of this disease is now endemic in only four countries thanks to the decades of effort put forth by our members. Hard to believe the Foundation began with a $500 grant to what is now Easter Seals back in 1937. Our District goal for contribution boils down to only twenty cents per member per day. Please consider putting the Foundation on your preferred list for donations.

We meet at South Congregational again next week. If you can help set up at 10:40, that would be great.

It’s probably not “Indian Summer” if you have not had a frost yet, but it sure felt like some kind of Summer today. Almost muggy. Most Rotarians, being a hardy bunch, managed to find their way to South Congregational Church, but it seems we are missing a few ‘regulars’. It is good to see our new members are not shy about seeking out our migrating meeting sites.

Don Hallquist was plunking out a nice rendition of “As Time Goes By” as this scribe entered the hall. Play it, Sam! What a great way to set the tone of meeting up with our friends in the middle of a hectic day and a busy week. Yom Kippur being Monday, Dan Firestone was called upon to give our luncheon blessing. He also widened our philosophical and religious horizons by letting us know that this is the year 5657 (if you count from when the world was created). We then got busy consuming salad, chicken pot pie (easy on the pepper, Neal!), and angel food cake with strawberries.

President Dan called on Tim Larson and Tom (Dr. Tooth) Galvin to lead us in a welcome song for our only guest, Guest Speaker Peter Christ. Hmm, Christ at South Congregational Church. Won’t that make our other places of worship jealous? Tim proceeded to dedicate his singing to Herb Tischofer and Jack Ghagan, his former sponsors.

So then it was time for the inimitable Mike “Stand Up” Malinguaggio to give the Sargeant-At-Arms report. I can only say, What?! Here’s what I think we heard: if you are not wearing a tie next week, you will be fined. Ladies, take note. Sam Leone had a birthday (cheers!); Dean Roland celebrated 62 years of marital bliss (what other kind could you have if the love of your life was Jean?); Bill Leone went fishing and caught “three fishes” (or maybe not, something about “sleeping with the fishes” was heard); Baby Brother Hizzoner Tim was somehow interchangeable with President Dan; Dan Russell was fined for wearing an outstanding and very artistic combination of pink/orange/coral/salmon; and Chuck Clarke had his picture in the paper. Last, but not least, “Stand Up” or his son, Mike, Jr., was mentioned in the newspaper regarding the premier of a locally filmed movie. I think.

Announcements: Neal Cunningham finally has the date right – please show up to help at the Greater Hartford Marathon Water Station at Pitkin Street on Saturday, October 14 by 7:30 a.m.. Any later and it may be difficult for you to drive in.

Next week’s meeting (October 11) is at South Congregational Church. If you can show up early to help set up (by 10:40 a.m.) it would be greatly appreciated. If not, perhaps you can stay at the end of the meeting to help break down chairs? Don Hallquist pretty much single-handedly did all the muscle work for this week’s meeting.

Bill Secord attended a regional conference at which our Club was recognized as a “Friend of Youth” due to our overwhelming support for the East Hartford Youth Services “Right of Passage Experience” (R.O.P.E.s). As pointed out, but for our financial assistance, this program would not be in existence this year due to budget cuts. Another way we can make a difference at the local level.

President Dan will be providing us with more information next week on “Fall Fest”. The Fest is a day-long opportunity for local non-profits and civic groups to let the citizens of East Hartford know of their existence. He is hoping to staff a booth in two 4-hour shifts on Saturday, October 21^st.

Anyone interested in attending the Saturday, October 14^th “Rotary Leadership Institute” at Elms College in Chicopee should contact Steve Jacoby. This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about Rotary from a perspective that should be attractive to new or potential Board members.

Save the date: Saturday, November 18 is our “Carnivale” party. You know you won’t want to miss a party put together by John “Blonde Slovak” Shemo! For new members: wait till you see the high entertainment value of a John Shemo Production. This is a great opportunity to invite friends and loved ones to a night out guaranteed to be lots of fun with good food.

President Dan announced the following roster of up-coming programs: Former District Governor Tom Voorhees will speak on the topic of the Rotary Foundation (10/11); our own Doug Willett presents a program on membership (10/18); and then we are off for a grand tour of the newly renovated YMCA on 10/25.

And that brought us to an interesting and very persuasive talk by guest speaker Peter Christ representing LEAP “Law Enforcement Against Prohibition”. Mr. Christ is a former police lieutenant who made a number of salient observations about the ‘War on Drugs’, its ineffectiveness, and especially our current public policy which harks back to the days of Prohibition. His message was that the crime and violence associated with illegal drug use is really a market-driven phenomenon that could instead be regulated and controlled and would result in the eventual elimination of drug lords (similar to Al Capone’s tactics in the wild and wooly 1920’s). Make no mistake, he does not see this effort as condoning drug use, rather the approach should be similar to that taken in modern times with alcohol purchase and addiction. Mr. Christ should be congratulated on presenting a program that left us with plenty to ponder.

Apropos our meeting in the South Congregational Church, Maestro Hallquist set the tone with such favorites as “When the Saints Come Marching In. As always, we appreciated the generosity of the South Congregational community. Dan Russell stood in for Ted Mosebach and reminded us to be thankful for the promises and opportunities of our lives, but also to be aware of the manifest needs of peoples around the world. A tasty luncheon consisted of beef bourguignon with mushroom, onion, and cauliflower gravy and an assortment of pastries for dessert. (Despite the coaching of Art Bradbury, it took me five minutes on “spell check” to find the correct spelling of the main course.)

Following the dictates of Don Hallquist’s atomic-guided watch, President Dan began the meeting at 12:45 sharp. Because Bob Brown had not turned on his hearing aid, Donna Bys introduced our guest from the Chicopee club, Jean Claude Trudel. Phyllis Demers, in a panic, demurred from leading the “Welcome Song” (“I don’t know it!”—shame, shame). But, appropriately enough, Sam Leone took up the baton in his lime-green, Connecticut-shore-line shirt and proved that his memory is still intact.

Sergeant-at-Arms Little Richard three-fingered the four victims of his diligence: Jack Ghagan and Dan Russell for 33 years in Rotary, Dean Rolland in obeisance to the gentlemen (and ladies) who administrated this year’s golf tournament, and George Agnelli in thanks for recovering his wayward check book, found (strange to be said) in an alley behind Blue Back Square.

Next week’s meeting will take place at South Congregational Church. We will meet at the YMCA on October 25, not next week. The rest of our meetings until November 6 (pending any special events) will also take place at the South Congregational Church. The stalwarts George Schoen, Art Bradbury, Bob Wood, Don Hallquist, and Dick McCarthy set up the tables for today’s luncheon, but they need help for the remaining weeks that we meet here. Volunteers should make themselves available Wednesday mornings at the church at 9:30 (excepting next week) for 15-25 minutes.

Mary Martin reported that the Rebuilding Together project proceeded like clockwork. She especially thanked new members Brian Liss, Pat Gately, and Lori Goeckler, along with 80 other volunteers. They included Dave and Chickie Amberg, Ceil and Frank Collins, Neal Cunningham, Pat Gately, Lori Goeckler, Dan Larson, Tim Larson, Mary Martin, Dick McCarthy, Glen Peterson, and Bob Wood. Mary also thanked members for the donation of coolers for the day.

Neal Cunningham announced that at the request of Bob and Debbie Wood (they have an appointment with their personal trainers) the Hartford Marathon will now take place on October 14^th. George Agnelli expressed his regrets that he would be available only on Friday the 13^th—appropriately

President Dan congratulated the golf tournament committee and it chairpersons George Schoen and Jim Fallon for an impressive golf tournament. He thanked Larry and Doris Frazier for organizing the raffle prizes and George Schoen (using his direct connection to the Almighty) for insuring that the weather would be so good. George confirmed the success of golf tournament—over 60 raffle prizes, more sponsors than last year—and indicated that Kathy McCabe now estimates that the final dollar tally will be close to last year’s total ($23- to $24,000). The golf committee will meet before next week’s luncheon at 11:15 for feedback. George welcomes comments from all members of the East Hartford club.

Dates to remember: November 18—the Carnival; December 20—Christmas Party at Mt. Carmel; East Hartford Fall Fest—a booth from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on the town green on October 21.

Program: Matt Fleury, vice president of the new Connecticut Science Center, spoke to the club about the regional renaissance that the Connecticut Science Center is advancing—a renaissance that includes East Hartford, West Hartford, and surrounding municipalities. He acknowledged the role that East Hartford Rotary has played in the past in support of a local science center, and he particularly highlighted John Shemo’s recent efforts. The $150,000,000 complex, designed by Cesar Pelli, will become a learning destination for families throughout New England and will stand as a symbol of Connecticut’s role in the advancement of scientific enterprise. Hands-on, interactive exhibits in the center will serve as exciting learning environments supporting school science programs. The center has begun an outreach program for local teachers (200 so far), providing them with practical tactics to engage their students. When completed, the Connecticut Science Center will stand proudly among such national science museums as the Boston Museum of Science, the Science Museum of Minnesota, and the New York Hall of Science in Queens.

Make-ups: Loren Andreo @ Westerly, RI, on September 11,2006; Steve Jacoby @ the Rotary Leadership Institute on September 15 and 16, 2006; Frank and Ceil Collins @ Rochester, NY (Eastern Cities Dinner), San Diego, CA (IA Committee meeting for four days), and @ Chula Vista, CA (Rotary club meeting).

Today’s venue brought back a number of fond memories–such as the three pointer from the balcony made by Mo Belanger some time in the past. (It still didn’t get him the girl, however.) The original East Hartford High School gymnasium, the encircling track/balcony, and the 1942 score board/timer still stand; but many Rotary members today seemed more happy to sit. President Dan noted that even with five new members inducted last week, the only recent inductee to return today was Brian Liss, and Dan wondered if it was something he had said. (Of course not!) Gil Wishart, speaking the opening grace, reminded us to think of our members in need and asked that Rotary may “one day truly achieve its goals in the elimination of hunger, thirst, and poverty, and that world peace may truly be a reality, where guns are replaced by a handshake of brotherly love.”

Lunch, served by our faithful catering staff in a more spacious environment, consisted of open-faced BLT sandwiches, potato chips, and frosted cupcakes. The only guest to be introduced was our speaker, Dan Matos; and Don Pitkin did stand up and did walk to the podium–but for what, he wasn’t quite sure. The last member to arrive, Glen Peterson, led the opening song with new member, Brian Liss (who thereby got to check off one “task” on his Rotary Passport). Little Richard belted out his tunes on the fines he had collected: Steve Jacoby for 10 years in Rotary; Dean Roland for 34 years (“Good Golly, Miss Molly”); dancing Judge Barall (“Slippin’ and Slidin’”) for his picture in the paper and for his 54^th wedding anniversary; Sue and Peter Klock for pictures in the paper; Jim Fallon for new twin grandchildren; and Dave Amberg for grandchild number nine. Tom Westbrook was very disconcerted to discover that he appears to our president to be no longer able to have more children. Don Hallquist paid for his birthday and demanded (“You bet your booty”) that everyone sing for him.

Art Bradbury announced that George Stewart is at home suffering with osteoarthritis. President Dan revealed that Roy Spiller is being treated for leukemia. Dan also expressed concern for his rushing through some of the special observances at last week’s crowded agenda, especially the recognition of the Paul Harris awards for Doug Willett and Dan Dienst. Mary Martin confirmed that the Rebuilding Together project is all set to go for Saturday 23 ^rd. Neal Cunningham invited everyone to help George Washington and George Agnelli at Rotary’s water station for the Greater Hartford Marathon on October 14. Jim Watts reminded members that the nomination form for Paul Harris awards has been put on our Web site. George Schoen happily announced that we have maxed out with 128 golfers for the tournament on Monday. We have over 90 sponsors and raffle prizes are still coming in. For membership edification, Sue Klock has created a poster on how to surf the East Hartford Rotary Web site, and she and Ceil Collins are selling vintage poster of the Statue of Liberty to add funds to our literacy campaign.

Our next meeting is at the South Congregational Church (maybe the High Gear editor will read his own High Gear this week).

Jack Ghagan introduced new member Tim Larson, who at the urging of his brother gave the shortest speech of his long political career. And we all discovered that Tim really joined Rotary for the hand-signed, suitable-for-framing copy of “Danny Boy” included in the induction packet. Don Pitkin won the raffle and saved himself a third walk to the podium by staying there to introduce our speaker Dan Matos, the developer of the Rentschler Field project.

Program: The Rentschler Field development project is for real! That was the essence of Dan Matos’ message to the club. His goal as developer is to turn the Rentschler site into a world-class high-technology community for the next century. Since 1994, when UTC closed the old airfield, the company has wanted to do something very special with this site–not just a shopping center, which would have brought them a lot of money. He reiterated Don Pitkin’s prediction that Rentschler will become East Hartford’s future town center–with 120 acres exclusively for technology companies such as Westinghouse, 175 acres for other corporate occupancies, 130 acres (donated by UTC) for a forested public park, and further space for a wide variety of residential opportunities (including occupancy for individuals employed in the industrial and retail firms at Rentschler itself). Dan emphasized the importance of the State of Connecticut’s recent environmental study, one of whose conclusion’s being that the environmental impact plan is adequate for the planned use of the site. He urged Rotary members to read the report and to take the lead in disseminating the good news it contains. Dan also cited former mayor Tim Larson and the East Hartford town council for taking the lead in helping to attract such anchor tenants as Cabela’s.

Although the entire project is a 10-18 year endeavor, earth will begin to be moved by next month. The state has approved the construction of East Hartford Boulevard South, a very expensive operation that will open up a major portion of the site for development. The prospect is that Pratt and Whitney itself will be able to use some of this space to double its present footprint in East Hartford–good news for East Hartford taxpayers. Dan’s opinion is that one of the great stories of the decade is how the State of Connecticut, local politicians, and UTC have worked together to make this project a reality. Dan dismissed recently expressed concerns regarding out-of-state labor contracts for the Cabela site as simply being preemptive moves to ensure that local job opportunities already promised would actually occur. Dan also explained that the parking situation forecasted for Rentschler Stadium has been adequately addressed.

The most pleasant of beginnings—Ruthie Sheehan greeted us all as we entered the clubhouse. Her smile helped make up for the presence of the moving van we all saw as we passed by 94 Sunset Ridge Drive. Shirts and ties were very evident, especially Jackie Danise’s godfather’s version of woven pearls. Only one flagrant exception—Larry Hangland pleaded innocent based upon a printer’s prerogative to be slovenly.

Jim Watts gave the invocation—asking for the ability to open our hearts and mind to the district governor’s message this day and for her safety as she travels throughout our district. Lunch consisted of baked chicken with mushroom gravy, string beans, baked sweet potato, and low-calorie whipped-cream delight.

Guests: Jackie Danise introduced Donna Bys from Goodwin College; Dan Dienst introduced his wife Loretta; Steve Jacoby introduced returning member Sam Leone and new member Lori Goeckler; Art Bradbury introduced both Mark Greer from ADG in Glastonbury and Jay Stewart, who was standing in for her husband George and making the meeting much more pleasant; Herb Barall introduced Brian Liss from the YMCA along with troublemaker Dick Seidman (he did win the raffle later in the meeting); Jack Sayre introduced Dan Firestone’s much younger brother Ed; and Ruth Sheehan, commenting that Jimmy would be very proud of them today, introduced District Governor Sue Atkins and her husband Victor. The “Welcome Song” was led most appropriately by lyricist Tom Westbrook and vocalist Art Bradbury.

Sergeant-at-Arms Dick McCarthy pointed out that, although nobody usually listens to our esteemed president, everybody today seemed to have dressed appropriately. The fines Dick administered included: Glenn Peterson for both birthday and anniversary; George Schoen [Shown, Shine, Shane—that’s it!] for his birthday; Bill Secord for his anniversary; Gil Wishart for his son’s wedding; Jack Ghagan for a new car (never fear, he has NOT given up the 1972 station wagon); Mark Sirois for his picture in “Better Homes and Gardens,” copies of which were provided in each cell at the public safety complex; and Dan Firestone for being listed as one of the 100 best pharmacists in Connecticut (FBI’s most wanted). President Dan announced that several members had also made donations to our scholarship fund in memory of Mary Malloy, Bob Richmond’s mother-in-law.

Announcements: Next week we will be meeting in the gymnasium of the East Hartford Cultural Center.

Spurge Stokes’ twin sister died yesterday in Colorado.** Goodwin College is running a golf tournament for their scholarship fund two days after our own tournament. Goodwin serves many low-income students.** Mary Martin reminded everyone of the Rebuilding Together project on September 23. She has nineteen volunteers for that date, along with three volunteers to help the day before. She still needs coolers! Generis Caterers has committed to providing 100% of the food used that day to feed volunteers; and Melrose Distributors, 100% of the cold drinks.**President Dan reaffirmed George Schoen’s call for more raffle prizes for the golf tournament. The number of participants is looking good, but the number of prizes is still low.**Anyone interested in attending the district’s Rotary Foundation dinner on November 10, please see Sue Klock. Cost is $45. Cocktails at 6:00 pm; dinner at 7:00 pm.**East Hartford Rotary will be “manning” a water station again this year for the Greater Hartford Marathon on October 7. See Neil Cunningham for further details and advice on how best to aggravate George Agnelli.**Jim Watts asked members to be thinking about nominations for this year’s Paul Harris awards. He has the applications, which are also available on the Web. The Paul Harris committee will be meeting in early November to select the recipients.

New members: District Governor Sue Atkins joined President Dan to receive six new members into the East Hartford Rotary Club. 1) Donna Bys comes to us from the Chicopee Rotary Club, where she served as its first woman president. 2) Phyllis Demers, assuming the nursing directorship at Sterling Manor, is transferring to us from the Enfield Rotary Club. 3) Lori Goeckler comes to us through the kind recommendation of Past District Governor Dick Seidman. She commented, “I had no idea what I was missing!” 4) Sam Leone, originally sponsored by Don Hallquist in 1974 and returning to us from Florida, stated “There is no club like East Hartford.” 5) Brian Liss comes to us from the Granby Rotary Club and ranks his family, the YMCA, and Rotary as the most important aspects of his life. 6) Tim Larson, as usual, was missing at the post.

Paul Harris Awards: Doug Willett received a three-sapphire Paul Harris pin in recognition of his support for the Rotary campaign to conquer polio. Dan Dienst, designated a Paul Harris recipient by Sue and Peter Klock, received his metal from District Governor Sue Atkins, who stated that the world is closer to peace because of his contributions. She also noted that the East Hartford club will be missing his margaritas.

Program: In a very personal and moving talk, District Governor Sue Atkins made plain how Rotary is indeed very special— the only organization that enables an ordinary person to effectively contribute to world peace and that is looked to around the world for its moral leadership. At a recent Rotary conference in Boston, a military expert on terrorism stated, “Rotary is the only escape from [the Mideast] cycle of terrorism.” If only 50% of Rotary President Bill Boyd’s concrete goals for water management, health, and literacy are achieved by 2015, we can truly create a peaceful world by 2025. In this editor’s opinion, District Governor Atkins’ message should be committed to print and distributed to Rotary clubs across America.

Respectfully (with the very minor exception of my attitude towards President Dan),

The re-energized greeter system at Veterans Memorial Clubhouse has raised the level of noise and confusion in the entryway (if that’s possible), but distractions haven’t kept Spurge Stokes from continuing to allocate the winning raffle ticket to his friends. Maestro Hallquist provided a selection of eclectic jazz; and in the midst of the bedlam, President Dan rang the bell two minutes early. (Steve Jacoby would have been late anyway.) Dan Russell led the invocation, reminding us of our connections with peoples around the world.

Lunch consisted of a garden salad, ziti with meatballs, and pumpkin pie with whipped cream topping. Tim Larson, facing a room full of fully committed dining tables, pulled a chair up to one table’s unoccupied end and proceeded to eat all of Mary Martin’s salad and half of her ziti before she could return from getting herself and her neighbor a cup of coffee. “The last of eight children,” was the only comment from Tim.

The numerous guests included Sam Leone, introduced by his twin Jack Sayers; Phyllis Demers, director of nursing at Sterling Manor, introduced by Marcia Leclerc; Mary Panayotidis, branch manager of New Alliance Bank, introduced by Paul Apostol, who was prompted to introduce two other guests at the his table—Lori Goeckler, agent for Northwest Mutual, and Tim Larson, director at 3D Asset Management. (The board of directors is keeping him from becoming a full member as long as we can.) George Stewart introduced Jimmy Martin, our old friend from Sheffield, England; and Tom Westbrook introduced Bill Flynn as guest, honorary member, past president, and everyone’s favorite letter writer.

President Dan picked Bill Leone (“I sang it last week, and I wasn’t even last!”) and Steve Jacoby to sing the “Welcome Song.” Sergeant-at-Arms Dick McCarthy fined a potpourri of members for various transgressions: Ceil Collins, Marcia Leclerc, Bill Saunders, and Dan Larson, for their pictures in the newspaper; Dan Larson, Dave Amberg, George Schoen, and Bill Saunders, for names in the district newsletter; Bob Brown, for a new car; Deep-Pockets Dan Larson, for the longest drive to today’s meeting; and Mary Martin and Art Apostol, for birthdays. Tom Galvin won the raffle on a ticket held by Spurge.

District Governor Sue Atkins is joining us next Wednesday, September 13. Everyone, male and female, should wear black tie; and everyone, including Jim Watts, should sing!

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society is running a charity bike tour at the Mohegan Sun. See President Dan for details.

An opportunity exists to participate in a Rotary Friendship Exchange that offers travel to India.

President Dan read a warm letter from Bill Flynn thanking the club for insisting, against his better judgment, that he be made an honorary member.

Mary Malloy, the mother of Bob Richmond’s wife Nancy, died last Friday. The family asks that contributions in her memory be made to the Rotary Scholarship fund.

Mary Martin asks that everyone providing coolers for the Rebuilding Together project bring their coolers to our next meeting, Wednesday, September 13.

Six members are being inducted at that meeting. New members recently proposed include:
Name: Donna Bys. Classification: Post-secondary education. Sponsor: Frank Collins.
Name: Timothy Larson. Classification: Asset management. Sponsor: Jack Ghagan.
Name: Phyllis Demers. Classification: Nurse administrator. Sponsor: Peter Klock.

One “old” member is returning to the fold:
Name: Sam Leone. Classification: Elementary and Secondary Education Administrator. Sponsor: Steve Jacoby.

Make-ups: Loren Andreo at Westerly, Rhode Island; George Schoen and Art Bradbury at Saco Bay, Maine.

Providing us with an impressive outline of John Shemo’s career in community development, Jackie Danise introduced him as our “guest” speaker. John, vice president and director of economic development for the Metro Hartford Alliance, lived up to his resume—delivering a well-paced, fact-filled synopsis of the major achievements of the Alliance and future prospects for Metropolitan Hartford. Major projects the Alliance has supported include the Hartford Convention Center, the new Marriott Hotel, the renovated Hartford Hilton, and Trumbull-on-the-Park residential units. Future plans include assisting in the development of Front Street, the Colt Gateway building (and possible national park), the Connecticut Science Center, Pearl Street condominiums, Temple Street, and numerous other projects. One exciting possibility is the arrival of international service at Bradley Field and the construction of a Hartford to Springfield rail line. East Hartford Rotary has its own visionary in the person of John Shemo.

Another full house today, with plenty of guests including a bevy of soon to be new members (which should be a boon to our ever aging ranks.) Our guests included the ever-radiant Jan Sayre, old buddy and newly relocated Sam Leone, Bob Bentley from Glastonbury and the awaiting induction crew (September 13^th – Governor’s Visit) of Brian Liss, Tim Larsen, Lori Goeckler and Phyllis Demers. Phyllis’ boss, Tom Harris was also present. The welcome song was led by Marcia LeClerc and Police Chief Mark Sirois, who looked considerably more uncomfortable than when facing down an offending motorist.

The good reverend Ted Mosebach said the grace today, preceding a meal of beef stew, rice and corn. A plate of brownies followed.

Sergeant At Arms Herb Tischofer reported “thin pickins” today with Frank Collins paying for a Rotary anniversary (36 very, very productive Rotary years) and a couple of politicians paid for pictures in the paper. Steve Jacoby paid in sympathy with Red Sox fans. (This team has fallen so far, so fast that even I can’t bring myself to tease Little Ruthie about her hapless devotion to the Beantown “bombers.” Red Sox Nation is in tears.)

q Saturday, September 23^rd is Rebuilding Together Day, one of our Service Projects. Signup with Mary Martin ASAP. Help needed both Friday afternoon and Saturday.

q The Town has a rental vacancy at its Golf Course property. The house is 1100 sq.ft. with two bedrooms and a garage. Contact Mary Martin if interested.

q The 19^th annual Golf Tournament is on track but more players and sponsors are needed. Larry Frazier reminded members that each is expected to contribute the equivalent of a $50 raffle prize for this event. Only 20 have been received to date versus 90 contributed last year.

q Bill Saunders made an appeal for people to start thinking about next year’s golf tournament in the hopes that the 20^th Anniversary Event can be extra special.

q Pat Gately paid for an announcement that President Dan will be honored by the First District Democratic Club as their “Humanitarian of the Year” on Sunday, October 15^th at their annual Columbus Day Dinner. Tickets are only $15 and can be obtained from either Pat or Marcia.

q President Dan read a letter from Mayor Currey thanking the Club for its recent donation of backpacks and calculators.

q He also reminded one and all of the District Governor’s Visit on September 13^th. Appropriate dress is in order.

q Finally, the Prez also reminded us that the Ridge will be closed after our 9/13 meeting until November 8^th. Keep a close eye for announcements of alternative sights during this period.

That’s it for now. Been fun doing this weekly task for the past month. Bill Secord is on deck. Regards, WDOUGW

Lots of positive energy in the main hall today as Rotarians gathered for our weekly meeting. Several committees met before the gong to pursue plans for this year’s Rotary activities. Final touches are being put on the Golf Tournament, programs were being scoped out for the year, and membership revitalization was discussed. Bouncy piano tunes reinforced the feeling of vitality and accomplishment in the air.
After the bell, and a thoughtful grace by newly returned from Maine, Bob Wood, we enjoyed a summer repast of clam chowder, chicken salad sandwich, and Jell-O dessert. Not the best luncheon we have enjoyed at the Ridge, but adequate unto the day.
Our guests today were Donna Bys, Program Director for the Stone Academy; Brian Liss, the YMCA Director and soon to be new member; Cephus Nolen and Linda Chamberlain, from the Department of Youth Services, and Dr. Pauline Fusco from the school system, all representing the R.O.P.E.S Program. The R.O.P.E.S. Program (Rite of Passage Experience) is an experiential learning activity for six graders at Sunset Ridge School and involves physical and emotional challenges that involve climbing and navigating through a structured landscape. Monies for helmets, harnesses, ropes, safety inspections, and transportation will be provided by the proceeds of our Rotary Golf Tournament.
Birthdays were recognized today for Glen Peterson, Bob Richmond and Gil Wishart, who turned a youthful 75. The Empress Mary Martin paid for her Rotary Anniversary. Has it really been 18 years since the introduction of women into our midst? This place should be collapsing any day now. Bill Leone somewhat sheepishly paid for a brand new granddaughter, Gianna Nicole Calciano.
Just a few announcements today. President Dan thanked Loretta and Dan and Kathy’s Committee for the highly successful Tex-Mex Picnic (check the web-site for pictures). George Schoen said he was “not as nervous’ as before, and that the Golf Tournament is shaping up nicely. More players, sponsors, and raffle prizes are needed, but things are on track. Mary Martin reminded us that signups for the Rebuilding Together Hospitality Service Project will be next week.
Makeups were received from Bob Wood (4), Steve Jacoby and Loren Andreo. Thanks, guys. See you next week. WDOUGW
“Okay, class. Listen up. It’s time for our spelling lesson. Little Ruthie, can you spell ‘sweep’?” “I think so, teacher. I’ll try real hard.” “Let me give you a hint, Little Ruthie. It has seven letters and begins with a ‘Y’.”

Roger Driggs high stepping down the aisle as he led the Welcome Song, Pancake Breakfasts at First Church, summer outings at Rita and Bob’s, Bruce Noble conducting the Kentucky Derby pool at the District Conference, the annual Fourth of July concessions stand at the Fireworks – great E. H.. Rotary traditions that came and went in the passage of time. Joining that list after tonight are Dan and Loretta hosting an annual picnic on their beautiful grounds just down the hill from the Ridge. Fun times with good friends make warm memories and tonight was no exception.

I mean who can ever forget, after this evening, a Rotary Club President wearing an outsized sombrero and outsized sunglasses standing on a diving board and dropping his pants to reveal his blue Speedos? Who is going to forget the sight of a pair of “tighty whiteties” being tossed into the pool and settling slowly to the bottom? We may have been generously plied with Margaritas but we still had to rub our eyes in wonder. The “dignity of office” stricture is definitely on a yearlong walkabout. And we love every minute of it. Not since Scottie and his beloved Herkimer have our weeklies been so raucous.

We had a great turnout tonight for this Tex-Mex bash, with plenty of old friends in attendance, including “Ornery Member” Roger Nicholson and wife Ann all the way from Pittsburgh; good buddy Mary Ann Horn; Sue Klock’s PH sister, Jayne; two of our soon-to-be new members, Lori Goeckler and Brian Liss (with his bride, Chris); and the inimitable Ruthie Sheehan, commiserating with her fellow Bean Town fanatics and plotting to drown her sorrows by pushing her Yankee nemesis into the pool. That or a couple of more Margaritas would have done the trick.

Conzuella McCabe, complete with her Carmen Miranda headdress (and if you remember Carmen Miranda, you are really dating yourself) led the welcome song. Sgt.-at-Arms Herb Tischofer (there, finally spelled it right) took the night off so all fines were in abeyance. Our menu tonight featured plenty of refried beans, taco shells, and fajita fixings along with an extensive and delicious table of hors d’oeuvres and desserts. Our sincere thanks to Kathy McCabe and Sue Klock and their committee – Peter, Jayne, Ceil, Dean, Loretta and Dan – for putting it all together.

Bill Saunders announced the results of today’s Club Golf Outing. Jackie Danise swept the women’s prizes. Dave Amberg, Dan Larsen and Glen Peterson captured the men’s challenges. Veteran sandbaggers Amberg, George Schoen, George Agnelli and Tom Westbrook easily won the top team prize. East Hartford was also well represented on Tuesday at the District Golf Outing at Watertown Country Club with three foursomes. Here Amberg and Schoen teamed with Bill Saunders and Doug Willett to win the low gross competition.

The best announcement Dan made tonight was to reveal that on September 13 with District Governor Sue Atkins in attendance, Dan Dienst will be named a Paul Harris Fellow. He then presented Houston bound Dan and Loretta a beautiful crystal vase with a suitable inscription to thank them for so many years of hosting this summer event.

There will be a Board Meeting next Monday night at 7 p.m. at the Ct. Sports Management Group.

Finally President Dan told a long, convoluted joke about Carmen negotiating with George Agnelli over an engagement ring for a sweet young thing that ended with someone muttering, “I don’t get it.” To which one wag commented, “neither did Carmen.” You had to be there.

Beautiful day today, with a full house and a lot of energy in the room as President Dan brought our cacophony to order. Of course President Dan creates much of the cacophony in the first place, but, nonetheless, he wears the medallion and controls the bell. Dan related the brief sermon he heard last week in the middle of the heat wave – “Better hot here, then hot in the hereafter. Amen.” Similar to the guy I played golf with last Monday. When I asked him what he did for a living, he told me he dealt in “fire insurance.” Turns out he was a Catholic priest.

Several guests today included soon to be new members, Brian Liss and Lori Goekler. Joining them on the guest list were Tom Harris and Phyllis Demers from a local convalescent home and Norman Bernier from the town Social Services Department. Norm was present to accept our donations to the Backpack and Calculator Drive for local school kids. Ceil Collins collected 53 backpacks, 261 calculators and $85 in cash from supportive members of the Club. Well done.

Also making an appearance today was our always special guest, and blushing bride on her 59^th wedding anniversary, Saint Jay Stewart. Can you imagine putting up with George’s high jinks for 59 years and still having the mental capacity to run Bates College from her Trustee Emeritus position? Strong woman. Cheap date, since this luncheon passed as an anniversary dinner, but a strong woman. Art, Tom and Don gave the welcome song a rousing and robust rendition.

Besides the Stewart anniversary, the other major contribution to our Sgt-At-Arms coffers honored the recent arrival of Emily Rose Firestone, who is bound to inherit a Hudson or two down the road from proud grandparents, Dan and Hope.

q Golf Outing on August 16 will be at Twin Hills beginning at 8:45 a.m. Call Bill Saunders if interested.

q Mark your calendars for September 23 to participate in East Hartford’s annual Rebuild Together program. Mary Martin promises more details to come.

q The Rotary donated scoreboard at McKenna Field with appropriate signage should be in place in the next couple of weeks.

q Brian Liss, Darlene Roberts’ replacement at the local YMCA, invited one and all to the Grand Reopening of the Y this Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Several Rotarians have been instrumental to the Y’s many successes over the years.

q Immediate Past President Carol Krantz did not pay a fine for seeking volunteers for the MetLife Blood Drive she is heading next month on September 7^th and 8^th. (Contact Carol if interested – she’ll pay for parking.) By the way, Carol also didn’t pay the Sgt-at-arms for her new assignment at work; nor did she pay for the big, and I mean big, raise she received. Well done, Carol, but let’s cough it up next time you see Tischofer.

q Sue Klock reminded us of the Tex-Mex Picnic at the Diensts’ next Wednesday. Cocktails at 4:30 p.m., dinner at 6:00 p.m. and clean up at 7:30 p.m. Bring salads, desserts and recipes. According to President Dan, Johnny Moe and Leo Xmas will be modeling the latest in men’s underwear fashions. Should be quite a show, although Johnny Moe is a little nervous about parading on the diving board over the pool. Don Hallquist promises to “thing him a thong” if he pulls it off. The walk on the board, that is.

q Finally, George Schoen confessed that he was “getting a little nervous.” The Golf Tournament is only a few weeks away, and we are far from our targets in players registered, sponsorships secured, and raffle prizes gathered. It is ever thus with this fund raising effort, but Peggy is just putting away the sun glasses from the last time George got nervous, so let’s give the guy some support.

Keep the makeups coming. That’s it for now. How're you holding up, Ruthie? See you at Loretta and Dan’s. WDOUGW

How hot was it? When I left beautiful Niantic by the Sea at 10:45 a.m., my car had a temperature reading of 96 degrees. By the time I got in the car to leave the meeting at the Ridge at 1:15 p.m., the car read 112 degrees. Probably a little uncalibrated, but nonetheless pretty freakin’ hot. Too hot to play golf, even. That’s hot. Fortunately, our President assures us there is nothing to worry about. The science behind global warning is much too sketchy to take seriously. That’s reassuring…drip, drip, drip.

Speaking of Presidents, our Club Leader was absent today, tending to his duties with the Nutmeg Games in Bridgeport. (Kids can play ball in any weather, unlike the far-from-kids who make up the bulk of our group.) So we got our first taste of Acting President Bill Saunders at the podium. He came prepared wearing both the medallion of office and a heavy wool sport coat, which he had the good sense to doff before ringing the bell.

Mr. Rotarian, himself, Frank Collins, lead a thoughtful grace urging all of us to recognize and respond to the need to “lend a hand.” Our guests were old buddy (and anxious to get back to his own bed) Fred Campbell and prospective new member Tim Larson. John Shemo led an enthusiastic welcome song.

Sgt-At-Arms Herb Tischofer reported on birthdays for Bill Saunders and Ceil Collins, both of whom contributed generously. Don Pitkin, Fred Campbell and Bill Leone each got dinked for miscellaneous offenses – pix in paper, bringing heat from Florida, and new car, respectively.

q Calculator and Backpack drive has one week to go. Please get donations or dollars to Ceil Collins by beginning of meeting next week.

q If you want to play golf on August 16^th (before the Tex-Mex Picnic) get in touch with Assistant Golf Director Bill Saunders by this weekend. It will be a scramble format. Bill has to provide the Golf Director a total number of players so she can schedule a course and tee times.

q Sue Klock reported that revised yet again rosters are available and urged committee chairs to notify her of any scheduling commitments so she can keep the Club Calendar up to date on the web site.

q The Golf Committee will meet next week at 11 a.m. The committee is still expecting each member to be responsible for securing both a $150 hole sponsor or its equivalent and a $50 raffle prize. Our major fundraiser, so please get on the stick.

q The YMCA has invited one and all to its grand opening after recent renovations Saturday, August 12^th from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

q The Tex-Mex Fiesta is August 16^th at Dan & Loretta’s. Cocktails at 4:30 p.m. and dinner at 6:00 p.m. Please bring an appetizer or a dessert along with the recipe of your specialty to be used in a future Rotary Cook Book. Kathy McCabe and Sue Klock are running the show.

Makeups were noted this week from Roy Spiller in Old Saybrook, Jim Watts at a District Committee Meeting and Doug Willett on the E-Club.

That’s it for now, although I can’t close without a call out to Ruthie, who is no doubt looking at the American league standings and getting very, very nervous. Does your daddy wear pinstripes, Ruthie? WDOUGW

Sounding a little like “The Return of the Natives,” it was a noisy room today. Friends both new and old came from near and far, and it was a good gathering! Maestro Don Hallquist gave President Dan Larson the countdown to the bell, and we were off. Steady, reliable Bill Saunders offered a blessing in which he gave thanks for “…this special place, with its caring people,” and we sat to a very tasty meal of London Broil, mixed veggies and mashed potatoes w/gravy. A lime pudding w/whipped cream topping comple