High Gear Archives

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If readers will forgive me, I feel compelled to write,, at least part of today’s report, in the first person. The last time I wrote High Gear, which was last April, we had just come off a cold and wet weekend, and the day for Rotary was, thankfully, bright and sunny. At breakfast this morning, I thought the same; bright sunshine glinted through the tall pine trees in my backyard. The day glowered a bit, midday, but then did brighten some. The best brightener, however, is the meeting of friends and colleagues at Rotary. Midday, midweek, our Club is blessed to have the perfect workweek respite. Don Hallquist was at the keyboard in Charrier Hall, South Congregational Church, conversation was lively and interesting, and Dan Larson, acting President, President elect, Vice-president, was in charge. Dan called upon Bill Saunders, not for a Golf Tournament Report, but for the invocation, ably delivered.

Lunch, for those of you who collect returning menus, was a hot open-faced turkey sandwich with cranberry sauce, al dente green beans and roasted yam. Dessert, for those who eat chocolate, was a Halloween Cupcake.

A quiet gong brought us to order. Acting President Dan asked us to keep our President, Carol Krantz, in our thought as she deals with an ailing mother and the stress of a new, demanding job. We are all glad that Carol’s daughter is back from the mid-east.

There was only one guest today: Mike Malinguaggio, former member, brought back to the fold by Jack Ghagan. Let us hope that we’ll see more of Mike, for he has a special sense of humor, which he shares generously. Jack led us in the Welcome Song, which got off to a slightly ragged start, but which managed to knit itself together by the time that we reached the last few bars. You know, it’s not always easy to be unragged when you reach the last few bars. Think about that one for a bit.

George Schoen was Sergeant-at-Arms today. He collected from George Agnelli, for purchasing a not-well-running automobile for his wife (can’t trust those Mercedes-Benzes), from Don Pitkin for his picture in the paper (that’s what comes of politics) from Ted Mosebach because he’s a nice guy, from Dave Amberg, because he is a White Sox fan (might as well go with one of the best) and from Bill Saunders, on two counts: first, because the District Newsletter misreported (I use my own wording) our attendance record and, second, because his Alma Mater, Thiel College, has a game record of 7-0. According to my issue of the 2005 World Almanac, Thiel College, located in Greenville, Pennsylvania, was founded in 1866, tuition and fees are slightly over $14,000, and enrollment is slightly under 1300. Sounds like a good place, especially if they produce graduates like Bill.

There were a number of announcements. Peter Klock is doing his (excellent) citrus sale again: 20 pounds of grapefruit or oranges, $14.50; 20 pounds mixed grapefruit and oranges, or apples, $15.50; 25 pounds ;mixed grapefruit oranges and apples, $19.00. You can email Peter, call Peter, or sign up when the sheet goes around next week or a few weeks after. Shipping date is December 5^th.

NEXT WEEK’S MEETING WILL BE AT THE INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE ACADEMY, 857 Forbes Street, East Hartford. The Academy is cheek by jowl, and connected to, our East Hartford High School, which is at 869 Forbes Street. Lunch will come in a box. Kids at the Academy think outside of the box.

Dan Firestone and Neil Cunningham are on the Nominating Committee. If you are interested in really participating in the life of our club, let your will be known to one of those two. Jim Watts is calling for Paul Harris nominations. Pat Gately, in an attempt to make up a meeting, discovered that Wild Bill Cody’s, where the Bloomfield Club used to meet, no longer exists. Best to check club locations and times on the District Website Internet, link at bottom our our club's site, www.rotary.org. Sue Klock reported that ShelterBox #2179, which we purchased for $900, has gone to help Katrina victims. Note that there were many mentions of East Hartford in the recent District Newsletter. And lastly, Acting President Dan asked Mark Sirois if he could borrow his “costume” (read: Chief of Police Uniform) for a week, promising to return it in good condition. Let us all remember that laughter is an important part of living well! Jack Ghagan won the raffle.

Roy Spiller introduced our speaker, Gloria McAdam, President of Food Share which is headquartered in Windsor. Gloria is an accomplished speaker, as are many of our guests, talking without notes, explaining what Food Share does, and the needs that it helps to fill, citing statistics which were both sobering and uplifting. One out of ten families makes use of food pantries. In our area, that comprises 100,000 individuals. Food Share began with one person, and now has thirty employees, and countless volunteers. Nutrition is important to good health, good health is important, especially for children, to doing well in school. Food Share tries to break into that vicious circle of substandard living. It is currently completing a new purpose built facility which will allow it to collect and distribute more food efficiently. The Department of Agriculture says that we waste 28% of the food we produce, part in processing, part in quality control, and part in mislabeling during the packing process. Food Share picks up at least some of the good stuff that falls through the cracks. Food Share picks up, trucks, sorts, distributes to local pantries, 9.3 million pounds of food per year. There were too many statistics to commit to paper, but suffice it to say that wish our government might operate as well. An operation worthy of support.

Make-ups: Jackie Danise and Roy Spiller, Rockville. Good to be with you—Dan Russell

To usher in this beautiful fall day at East Hartford’s South Congregational Church, Maestro Don Hallquist, he of the nimble digits at the keyboard, played us some tantalizingly “cocktail lounge” tunes, taking us back to high school proms, college hops, or just plain cold winter evenings with the girl (boy) we loved, sitting in front of the fire. If we could have any wish imaginable, what might it be? To have the talent to play the piano like Don! Our local electrical engineer, Gil Wishart, had set up the microphone for President Carol Krantz and earned a potential fine for placing it at belt buckle height. Never mind, it seemed to go unnoticed!

Our dinner tables were stocked with E. H. Rotary calendar of events for the 2005-06 year, all by courtesy of “YIR” Sue Klock (also to be found on our website). The secret is out: Sue carries red, white and blue Rotary blood in her veins, and we’re the lucky recipients! Dinner this day was that old favorite, hot chicken pot-pie. Not a plate needed scraping! Guests who were sung to by Kathy McCabe and Dean Roland included PDG Dick Seidman and a sales friend of Skip Guillemette, Gene (sorry, the last name escaped this scribe!).

Sgt at Arms George Schoen told of a pretty good day with gift$ from anniversary celebrants Larry Frazier (38 years) and Kathy McCabe (12 years). Oh yes, cheapo Gil Wishart coughed in $1.00 in honor of wife Jean’s birthday (oh, oh, I wasn’t supposed to print that!).

In honor of what most every president does at least once, President Carol forgot to put on the Presidential medallion at the start of the meeting, thus treating the club to a future cocktail party!

Program for this wonderful Rotary meeting day, introduced by Peter Klock, was Exec. Director of the Literacy Volunteers of Greater Hartford, Carol Hauss. Ms. Hauss is a charming, enthusiastic, literate, and articulate spokesperson for this organization, dealing as it does with the literacy level of our areas’ children. Literacy was defined for us as being able to read and communicate well (in English) and the best indicator of a child’s literacy level is the mother’s literacy level! Other interesting/significant points made were:

Ms. Hauss assured us that there is good news in the existence of vital tutoring programs which are trying to reverse this trend by offering classes for adults at a number of area schools and libraries. Both reading and writing skills are being taught to individuals who currently read below the ninth grade level, or whose native language is other than English.

Though, on the face of it, a discouraging picture, we can take hope from the positive presentation by such an informed and committed person as Carol Hauss. Thanks for bringing us this program, Peter!

During perhaps the wettest week in memory club members enjoyed another inspiring meeting at the South Congregational Church.

The menu featured Swedish meatballs (no doubt in celebration of the next RI Convention) with egg noodles, zucchini, and strawberry shortcake for dessert.

Our one guest was frequent visitor Gil Spencer of the Glastonbury Club, who was also the lucky raffle winner and happy to take his plunder across the border.

Neal Cunningham thanked the Rotarians who helped manage the marathon water station on Pitkin Street had a wonderful, albeit wet, morning of community service and fellowship. In addition to Neal, the following members and friends participated: Neil Cunningham, Rosemary Hogan, Bill Saunders, Gil Wishart, Dan Larson, Jack Sayre, Dan Firestone, Carol Krantz, Ceil Collins, Frank Collins, Dick McCarthy, Pat Gately, Dave Amberg, and Mary Martin.

Doug Willett and Mary Martin are acting as advisors to the East Hartford High Interact Club, the Rotary service club for high school students. The first club meeting attracted 35 students. The club held a bake sale and raised $120 for hurricane relief. Mary is helping to sell magnetic picture frames to help the Interact Club’s current fundraiser. They say “East Hartford Yellow Jackets” and are very reasonably priced. They’d make a lovely gift for any East Hartford High alum.

Former member Donna Kehoe was in the hospital over the weekend due to a burst appendix. She’s at home recovering.

This week’s program was a panel presentation given by members who attended the centennial Rotary International Convention in Chicago. The members were introduced by Sue Klock.

Frank Collins, who has attended many conventions, spoke about how Rotarians were welcomed by the city and how clean and inviting Chicago seemed to a visitor. The district reserved a block of rooms at the Weston Hotel which allowed district friends to spend time together. Transportation was very convenient. Bus service was available from the hotel to the convention site is designated bus only tunnels and lanes.

This was the second convention for Doug Willett. He felt that attending the convention helped him appreciate the international scope of Rotary. Thousands of Rotarians, marching by country, paraded through the streets, and the vast number of international humanitarian projects was impressive. He encouraged other members to attend the international conventions to better understand the vastness of Rotary.

Steve Jacoby spoke about fellowship. 41,000 Rotarians attended the convention. He read from the “Principles of Rotary.” He shared a story of a meal he had a McDonalds with Rotarians from half a dozen countries. He also spoke about the “House of Friendship,” an exhibit of hundreds of international projects.

Sue Klock found the experience humbling. She and Peter attended the plenary sessions, and found them much more interesting that anticipated. Each session had a keynote speaker, videos of important projects, and other pertinent information. She was very impressed by Ted Turner’s speech. He spoke about how he became involved with Polio Plus and other Rotary humanitarian projects and thanked Rotarians for the important work we do. Sue was dismayed that some Rotarians walked out rather than hear Mr. Turner. She hadn’t held this celebrity mogul in high esteem prior to the speech, but her opinion was raised by his heartfelt words.

Ceil Collins attended a presentation given by a Nepalese Rotaract Club. Rotaract is Rotary’s service club for young adults. Members of this club decided to climb Mt. Everest and erect the Rotary flag in celebration of the 100^th Anniversary of Rotary. They even called RI President from the summit by satellite phone. To make the occasion even more special, 2 members of the club were married at the summit, an international first.

Peter Klock spoke about his visit to Club One, the original Rotary Club. They no longer meet in the original location, but the club is filled with cases of early Rotary memorabilia, photos, and documents.

Next year’s convention will be co-hosted by Copenhagen, Denmark and Malmö, Sweden, two beautiful cities I visited in the 80’s that are connected by high-speed hydrofoils.

In-coming president Dan Larson presided over the first of several meetings that are being held at the South Congregational Church.

Frank Collins gave the invocation remembering Jim Sheehan and Jack Sayer’s father who recently passed away. He also remembered Peg Spiller who is recovering from hip surgery and President Carol’s mother who is in ill health.

Lunch began with a clam chowder prepared in what I’ve always considered “Cape Cod” style, no cream like New England Style and no tomato like New York. It was followed by a turkey sandwich and coleslaw.

Art Bradbury and Tom Westbrook led the welcome song to the accompaniment of Don Hallquist.

Moe Belanger for his 74^th birthday
Dean Roland for 61 years of marriage
Steve Jacoby and John Shemo for Rotary anniversary
and a member who won his golf club’s summer-long match play tournament

Bill Saunders reported that Sept attendance was at 86.4%. Let’s work at reaching 90%.

Neil Cunningham asked that people helping with the Marathon Watering Station on Pitkin St. arrive no later than 7:30 on Saturday. Please bring a leaf rake and water pitcher if possible.

Steve Jacoby visited the Lyon, France club and presented acting president Dan with their club Flag.

Frank Collins introduced our guest speaker Hogie Hanson from the RI Foundation. Mr. Hanson has an impressive list of Rotary credentials and professional credentials in the area of college development and fundraising.

Mr. Hanson thanked our club and our individual members for their generous gifts to the RI Foundation last year and in the past. Our district led the 15 districts in our zone in giving to the Foundation, and East Hartford was among the leading clubs.

Mr. Hanson said kind words about Jim Sheehan and led a moment of silence in his memory.

Mr. Hanson introduced Bob and Gladys Dunn who were honored for their generous gift to the Foundation. Bob attended East Hartford High School and the East Hartford Rotary Club sponsored him as an Ambassadorial Scholar. Bob became a teacher and school administrator finishing his career as the principal of Hall High School in West Hartford. Bob was also a member of the West Hartford Rotary club for 35 years. Bob spoke about the positive impact Rotary has had on his life. Rotary had long been a part of the Dunn’s estate planning, but they fully expected that their gift to Rotary would made as part of their estate. They realized that giving a substantial gift during their lifetimes would enable them to see the fruits of that gift. Bob wanted the gift to relate to the East Hartford club where Bob was introduced to Rotary as well as the West Hartford club were he was a member and benefit young people in the towns. The Dunn’s have endowed an annual Ambassadorial Scholarship to be nominated by either East Hartford or West Hartford Club. Selection of the recipient would be made by a committee comprised of a member from each club and someone from the district leadership. The first scholarship will be awarded for the 2007-2008 year.

PDG Everett Watson, chairperson of the district RI Foundation, leads the committee that selects district Ambassadorial Scholars and explained the selection process. Candidates must have completed 2 years of college, but there is no age limit. Nominees complete a 20 page application and face multiple interviews. As a district we have an Ambassadorial Scholar about ever other year. Now, as a result of the Dunn’s generosity a scholar will come for East Hartford or West Hartford annually.

PDG Dick Seidman presented the Dunns with a crystal globe from the RI Foundation. PDG Carolyn Pierce presented Bob with a major donor pin and Gladys with a major donor pendant. Frank Collins thanked Mr. and Mrs. Dunn on behalf of the leadership of Rotary International.

With her recently acquired finesse, President Carol opened the luncheon meeting with a sharp blow to the Rotary bell that almost knocked her steaming cup of coffee off her table. (Meetings are safer at the Ridge, but not as warm and fuzzy.) After a thoughtful opening prayer by Ted Mosebach, the membership jumped to the occasion and quickly formed a ragged conga line to the buffet table. And a marvelous buffet it was— turkey breast and roast beef personally sliced by John Mozzicato himself, sausage and peppers, ziti, fried potatoes, garden salad, and rolls. John’s wonderfully friendly staff served coffee, chocolate chip cookies, and vanilla ice cream with chocolate sauce for dessert.

President Carol reminded us all that next week’s meeting is at South Congregational Church at the usual time. She also announced that Peg Spiller is in St. Francis Hospital recuperating from hip replacement surgery. Don Hallquist, in a sharp break with tradition, led the “Welcome Song” with his own vocal cords starting us off—his Casio alone not being quite up to the task.

Sergeant-at-Arms Dick McCarthy proved as diligent as ever. He fined Jack Ghagan, Dean Rolland, and Dan Russell each for 32 years in Rotary. (We should compare their horoscopes.) Also, Peter Klock reached the age of Social Security entitlement. Dick imposed the most appropriate fine, however, on Dan Larson for his risqué performance on the speaker system at the Golf Tournament. Dick was relieved to see the Reverends Ted Mosebach and Al Turner on the golf course together in a prayer group pleading for Dan’s salvation. Dick even fined the president herself for attempting to fraudulently claim the winning raffle ticket at the tournament, even though Big Jim Fallon stood up to challenge her. Finally, Sue Klock volunteered to pay a fine for turning down her raffle prize (what’s wrong with a pink flamingo?)

The Golf Tournament, impeccably run as usual by Bill Saunders, finished up with 117 registered players, 36 raffle prizes, and 3 silent auctions. The general raffle netted $3, 825. The silent auctions (a painting by Dan Russell, a table from Dan and Loretta Dienst, and teeth whitening from Drs. Galvin and Round) netted $1,000. The 50/50 greens contest raised $265; and the putting contest, $105. These monies (beyond sponsorships and entry fees) totaled $5,200. The next meeting of the golf committee will be next week at 11:30 before the luncheon. Bill encourages anyone with ideas on ways to improve the tournament for next year to call him.

Jim Watts reminded the club that the time for Paul Harris nominations is upon us. The Paul Harris selection committee will be meeting to make their decision in late October or early November. Please get nomination forms from Jim or download them off our Web site.

Neal Cunningham is looking for a few good people to weather the water station for the Hartford Road Race. Volunteers will be protected from the rain this year because the water stand will be operated from within a convenient jewelry store on Main Street, East Hartford.

Mary Martin acknowledged the efforts of a number of people in providing hospitality for the Third Annual Rebuilding Together Day on Saturday, September 24: Ceil Collins, Frank Collins, Dan Firestone, Pat Gately, Dan Larson, Mary Martin, Jim Reik, George Schoen, Gil Wishart, and Bob and Debbie Wood. Mary also thanked the Klocks and Mo Moshovos for providing coolers and John Mozzicato for donating 30 roll-up sandwiches! Remember that folks donating their services at events like this receive attendance credit for missed meetings. Make-ups seem to be falling off.

The raffle ticket was pulled in secret; and as Spurge announced the number, Jack Ghagan announced that Carmen Piscatello had won. (Carmen is very shy.)

President Carol presided over what was perhaps the shortest East Hartford Rotary Club meeting ever (no pun intended). She even beat Don Hallquist to his key board with a timely twanging of the magic bell—excruciatingly close to Doug Willett’s right ear. The breakfast meeting at John Mozzicato’s emporium triggered only a minor shuffling of the usual seating arrangements: it’s hard to teach old dogs new tricks.

The breakfast fare consisted of a groaning board filled with sausages, bacon, ham, scrambled eggs, French toast, bagels, and more. For a Rotary club with the average age of East Hartford’s, it was a dangerous meal indeed.

Dress was decidedly mongrel. Even George Stewart materialized in a polo shirt—in September! Perhaps the cause was the beautiful appearance of the golf course in the early morning sun. And the perfect weather—the warmest September on record. That statistic might bode either good or evil for the upcoming winter. At least we normally don’t experience hurricanes. Chuck Clarke introduced our one guest, Warren Westbrook; and Doug Willett and Dean Roland managed a rather off-key “Welcome Song.”

Our diligent sergeant-at-arms, Dick McCarthy, blood-hounded down a furtive group of late arrivals (7:30 am is the middle of the night for retirees), early leavers (even without a program!), anniversaries, birthdays, and publicity hounds. Dean Roland celebrated 32 years in Rotary; John Mozzicato, 7 years. Bloodhound McCarthy, who diligently peruses 26 newspapers (even the police reports) every week for any villain’s appearance in the press, fined Dan Russell for a picture of him and his lovely wife Betty in the Glastonbury Citizen (of all places). Bob Wood also smuggled his angelic mug into the press (the Brigton Beacon?). But the piece de resistance was Don Hallquist’s seventieth birthday: at his request everyone had to sing “Happy Birthday” to an off-key rendition on the Casio synthesizer.

The whole club gave a spontaneous tribute to John Mozzicato for his exceptional support during the club’s temporary displacement from the Ridge. His only complaint? All he got for breakfast was an $8.00 bagel!

Neal Cunningham is searching for people to man (person?) the water station for the annual Hartford Run on October 8. He promises the weather will be better than Galveston’s.

President Carol announced that the club is sponsoring a local Connecticut College student, Joe Ramos, for a month of volunteer work in a hospital burn unit in Bolivia. Sue Klock reminded the club that she and Peter are leading the effort to have all the Rotary Clubs in District 7890 sponsor at least one Shelter Box for the victims of Hurricane Kristina. The board of directors has committed East Hartford Rotary to support one Shelter Box for a donation of $900.

Even though he pretended that the waitress had not been paid off to pull the winning ticket, Spurgeon Stokes won the raffle. At least the pot was small this week.

The meeting ended with Maestro Hallquist on the electronic keyboard in a very creative “God Bless America.”

Our piano man Don played music from Music Man before the meeting. Art Bradbury will be starring in the production in November at the Manchester Little Theater. Don also played music from My Fair Lady, which opens this Sunday at the Bushnell. There is a different atmosphere when Don is playing.

President Carol is on a business trip, so incoming president Dan Larson rang the bell at 12:06:14 pm. Salute to the flag; invocation by Jim Fallon.

Most of the Rotarians were appropriately dressed today. There must be a sales event on blue sports coats, as everyone seems to be wearing them. A former president was attired in a blue sports coat, open shirt, slacks, sneakers, and no socks. (You can’t change jocks!)

The menu for today was grilled chicken, sweet potato casserole (in case you were wondering), green beans, vanilla ice cream with chocolate sauce. Do you really want to know all this? They also had a veggie burger, but the vegetarians didn’t show up. We’ll save it for next week.

Sergeant-at-Arms Dick McCarthy had little to report. George Schoen had a birthday and wants Rotarians to sing to him when he turns 70. (Comment from the audience, “next year.”) Larry Hangland paid generously because he had a Timex repaired by George Agnelli and Agnelli didn’t charge him????

Golf tournament—Bill Saunders reported we have 96 golfers and over $6,600 in prizes. We need players! Play yourself and/or encourage others to join us. We have only a week to go.

Dan introduced District Governor Karen Andrews. She cited her goals for the upcoming year. They are increased membership, publicity, clean water projects, 100% Foundation membership in each club, local projects involving two clubs working together, and literacy. She will be coordinating these activities with the presidents for further action. She cited the many past district governors in the audience, a distinction East Hartford Rotary can be proud of.

Make-ups: Frank and Ceil Collins, Boston Zone Institute; Peter and Susan Klock, Quincy, Massachusetts; Art Bradbury, Salo Bay, Maine; and Dan Russell, Kapolei, Hawaii.

? Mary Martin: She needs coolers or ice chests for the Rebuilding Together Day. Deliver them to Mary or call her at 291-7206.

? Stu Harris: The South Congregational Church is having a golf tournament on October 8 at Keeney Park. Contact Stu.

? Neil Cunningham: The Annual Marathon water station. If interested in participating, contact Neil.

? Peter Klock: Peter and Susan are regional reps for the ShelterBox USA. If interested in donating towards this cause, please contact them.

September 21 (Wednesday), East Hartford Golf Course, BREAKFAST MEETING at 7:30 am. Golf Committee meeting following.

I will be leaving shortly after the meeting today to attend a wake for a good friend of mine in Massachusetts. His wife informed me that it will be a closed casket with an open bar.

On this wonderful crisp day in September, Maestro Hallquist hastened the departure of an ugly summer with the lyrics, “…when autumn leaves start to fall.” Sounds good to me. John Shemo led us in prayer with a reminder of our commitment to both local and global service, especially now as the southeastern states struggle with the catastrophe named Katrina.

Lunch arrived in waves of garden salad with tangy dressing, lasagna with deep tomato meat sauce, and strawberry jello with whipped cream and sliced pears. And summer must still be here because the iced tea is still flowing.

Guests consisted of the husband and wife team of Jerry and Denise Hearn, here to speak to us about Rotary’s Shelter Box program, an unanticipated appropriate subject. The welcome song was enthusiastically delivered by George Schoen and Ceil Collins. Bill Saunders delivered the good news that our attendance for the month of August had risen to 81.3 % from July’s low of 78.5%. He then delivered his effective low-key encouragement for further support of the golf tournament, especially in the form of more sponsors (present tally: 91 golfers, 51 sponsors).

Dick McCarthy assumed the deadly armband of the sergeant-at-arms and collected fines for Glen Peterson’s birthday (somehow it slipped by last month—one reason that Glen is only 29 years old) and for Mary Martin’s similar 29^th birthday. Bill Secord and Glen Peterson each paid for their Rotary anniversaries. And who enjoys baseball more than those fans who witness a victory by the Red Sox and a loss by the Yankees on the very same day—worth every penny of the fines paid by five giddy Rotarians. There were many late arrivals and many early leavers; but Gerry Brady’s record of late arrival was broken by Bill Leone, who thought today was a night meeting. Steve Jacoby, who was the only one not in attendance at the Information Committee meeting that he himself had called for today, temporarily escaped his fine. Bill Saunders, no longer treasurer, won the raffle. Spurge Stokes thought that the present treasurer should have won, since she so desperately needs to replace her degenerating briefcase (a lawyer without a brief?)

Make ups consisted of Bob Wood and Dave Amberg at Bridgton, Maine; George Stewart and George Schoen at Saco Bay, Maine; and Bill Secord at two eClub meetings.

Reminder: Our September 21 meeting will be a breakfast meeting at 7:30 at the East Hartford Golf Club; our September 28 meeting will be a luncheon at the East Hartford Golf Club; and the meetings from October 5 to November 2 will probably be held at South Congregational Church.

Announcement: Mary Martin needs to borrow picnic coolers or ice chests for the annual Rebuilding Together Day event. The size that fits at least 2 six-packs or more. Please bring to the meeting on September 14 or call Mary at work 291-7206.

Program: Frank Collins introduced today’s speakers, Jerry and Denise Hearn, a couple from Florida who are very active in their own Rotary district and club. Denise, as president of her Rotary club, raised its membership from 24 to 70 in four years (if you want a job done…). For one scary moment as Jerry began to speak, he mistook Sue Klock, who had just switched her seat, for Frank Collins. Who says blondes have more fun?

Jerry explained the ingenious nature of the Rotary Shelter Box—400 of which were shipped to the New Orleans area within three days after Katrina struck. Over 900 boxes have now reached disaster victims along the I10 corridor in the South. Each box is a brawny, self-contained unit containing such essential survival equipment as two tents, sleeping bags, a cook stove, and enough supplies and water purification tablets to serve 10 people for 6 months. Box content can vary slightly depending on the needs of the area into which it is sent. The United Nations has asked Rotary to sent 100,000 of these shelters to Africa over the next three years—enough to serve a million people, mostly women and children. When sponsoring Shelter Boxes, a Rotary Club receives information on exactly where each box is being sent, usually to a Rotary Club somewhere near the disaster area so that we know the supplies are being efficiently delivered to the intended targets. Rotary again demonstrates effectiveness and commitment to service.

Don tempered today’s balmy and intermittently rainy weather with several spirited tunes. Our piano player evidenced signs of impatience with Pres Carol, waiting anxiously for a hard rap to the bell. The Very Right Reverend Mary Martin offered prayers to the hurricane victims and all those serving in the armed forces. One could visualize her dressed in a habit. To spoil that vision she informed her tablemates that her horse has been diagnosed by the vet as a nymphomaniac. Many at the table inquired as to the composition of the grain used to feed the horse.

Casual attire once again ruled the day – with two Bermuda short clad Rotarians and a mere 5 dressed properly in sports jackets. The rigid winter dress code takes effect next week.

Today’s culinary delight included shoe-leathery sweet and sour chicken, rice and squash. Brought back fond memories of the best of college dorm food. Mini chocolate éclairs for dessert. Two guests – Bob Necci? from the Glastonbury club and Art Apostol from NewAlliance Bank. Art is being proposed for membership. Any comments regarding Art should be directed to the Secretary. Marcia LeClerc and Dan Russell led the welcome song in what also doubled as a tryout for the March of the Wooden Soldiers.

Sgt-at-arms Ghagan had little to report on today other than a Bob Richmond birthday.

Attention: Change in meeting locations. Sept 21, breakfast at the EH Country Club, Sept 21, lunch at the EHCC, all Oct lunches at South Congregational Church. Nov 2, Vocational Service Day lunch at a place TBD. Next week’s speaker will discuss Shelter Box USA. 100 boxes will be shipped to the Gulf, first time boxes will be used in the US.

Don Cramer bid the club farewell after 27 years. He was greeted by a standing ovation. Don will be sorely missed. Good luck in NH!

Golf Tourney Report: Bill Saunders reported that we have 35 sponsors (need 100), 37 raffle prizes (need 75) and 56 players (need 136). Tournament is 4 weeks away. We have a very long way to go.

Dan Dienst delivered a bittersweet post mortem on last week’s pool party. He began to thank the many hands that labored to make the party a “success”. He announced no less than three casualties (including his) apparently in part due to an inadequate labor supply. Dan proceeded to lambaste members of the social committee for their lack of participation. He chose to read the names of every member of the social committee and commented on their participation or lack thereof, supporting evidence be damned. An unfortunate violation of the 4-way test. Dan informed the club that this will be the last year that he will host such an event. Too bad as the EH Park & Rec Department is offering an evening class this fall entitled “Party Planning for Novices.” To end this tirade, Dan informed the Club that his prized bifocal sunglasses are missing. Subsequently the Internal Audit and Investigation Committee has called in Scotland Yard to follow up. Sounds like this party was as much fun as celebrating the last dinner on the Titanic. The social committee has been summoned to be on hand next year to rearrange the deck chairs.

Aside from all of this, the Club extends its sincere appreciation to Loretta and Dan for the many times that they have opened up their home to these summer socials. In every case, a memorable event.

What a day, what an evening, what a glorious world we are blessed to inhabit! This was party day at the Dienst’s lovely home up on Sunset Ridge Drive and the street name certainly lived up to its promise, as we were treated to a gorgeous setting sun.

Loretta and Dan had really let the animals out this day, for their back garden was filled with dozens of Rotarians, as well as the inflated kind. Looking like a true Lion King, our host Dan welcomed one and all. “The committee” had done their work well in setting up, and guests feasted on hot dogs, hamburgs, corn, and many delicious hors d’oeuvres, salads, main dishes and desserts. We know that it’s bad form to mention some, and leave out others; we’ll say only that Tom Galvin, Dean Roland, and Jack Ghagan appeared to have everything under control in the cooking department and we thank you, guys and gals for your unselfish labors. Even Bill Saunders got into the act by exacting a $5.00 attendance fee!

Just as we thought the evening was going splendidly, happy-Dan Larson rang the bell and walked the presidential plank to bring about the semblance of a meeting! He lamented the absence of President Carol for: 1) Not telling him she’d be absent, 2) Not leaving the presidential medallion for him, and 3) being short. (Seems as though there ought to be a fine somewhere in there – for both him and her!) Acting Pres. Dan-himself led “This is Rotary” and many were seen nodding off by the pace. Don Hallquist & Tom Westbrook were busily stuffing their mouths with desserts; their song leadership was sorely missed.

Though after the meal, Rev. Ted Mosebach fittingly thanked the Lord for being good to us.

There were twenty-two happy golfers who’d enjoyed the day on the links. Chair Bill Saunders told of the many proud winners. Some folk observed that it’s not only fishermen who can embellish the “reel” story in telling of the length of a drive or the precision of a putt. Claimants of new balls (this editor is really trying to restrain himself!) included:

Lots of folks helped in the set-up and the clean-up, and the entire evening was a joy. Thanks, Dan and Loretta, for opening your gracious hilltop home to us. Rotarians who weren’t there…you missed a fine time, one of the occasions of East Hartford Rotary fellowship and fun which make our club the winner it is!

Next week? Back to the Hill. And for the Rotary Information Committee, Moe Belanger asks that you all meet at 11:00AM, okay?

The East Hartford Chapter of the AARP met once again at noon at the VMC.
Unfortunately our maestro was unavailable to play loony tunes. I thought I
was a visitor at the Ft Myers club as no less than 8 male Rotarians were
dressed in summer safari attire. Socks have also fallen out of favor with
many other male Rotarians. This author stands corrected relative to the
horse blanket that Dan Russell wore last week. In fact it was a new madras
jacket purchased but one year ago. This week stylish Dan wore the real
McCoy, a vintage madras jacket from the 60's. I'd have to flip a coin to
decide on my favorite. Herb Barall wins first prize for best looking tie.
The competition was thin however. Bob Brown sported the best looking shirt
worn by any Rotarian in the last month. Marcia LeClerc was showing off a
faded but still good looking tan. Our President presided with a virgin white
pant suit, pretty hot!
Congratulations to Bob Wood for climbing to the top of Mt. Washington with
rickety knees. Bravo!
Frank Collins offered the invocation today. He relayed bad news about a
setback in RI's battle against polio.
Today's marginal menu offered salad with pasta and sausage topped with
chocolate cake.
Reminder to new members. Pick up the attendance cards.
Our President was anything but tentative in whacking the gong today.
Our guests today included scholarship recipient Barbara Suida, J R Senak,
intern of Herb Barall's, and Olivia Spiller, granddaughter of Roy.
Art Bradbury and John Shemo led the welcome song today. Art challenged John
to show some leg. John obliged. Advice to John, keep your pants rolled down!
Our able Sgt at Arms Jack Ghagan collected numerable fines today.
Gil Wishart - a birthday with a song led by the South Congo contingent.
Bill Saunders - a birthday with no fanfare
Herb Barall - a birthday honored by a Belanger/Cecere duet
Frank Collins and Mary Martin - Rotary anniversaries
John Shemo - a rare TV appearance
Skip Guillemette - an even rarer appearance in Time magazine
Our EH Rotary Scholarship recipient Barbara Suida addressed the club
thanking one and all for the scholarship. She was EHHS's salutatorian and
will be attending UCONN in the Fall majoring in elementary education. She
was a member of the Student Council, National Honor Society, Future Teachers
of America, and captain of the badminton team.
No noon meeting next week. A big pool party at the Dienst's in the evening.
Skinny dippin reserved until after 9:00pm. Could be a great photographic
venue for Rotarians posing for the 2006 nude EH Rotary calendar. Dan needs
volunteers at 1:00 at the Ridge to transport supplies. Loretta could use
help at 2:30. If your last name ends in A-K bring a salad or side dish. L-K
brings dessert. Anyone with a last name ending in Q or Z brings booze. Golf
will at the Gilead Highlands which is near Blackledge CC. Please arrive by
9:45.
Program Committee will meet on Aug 31 after the meeting.
Frazier will assume Cramer's duties for the golf tourney. Many thanks!
Cramer is looking for a few good men for partners at the Sept Golf tourney.
Raffle won by Chuck Clarke
Makeruppers - F Collins, C Collins, R Wood, R Spiller, D Cramer. What about
the rest of you derelicts?
We had God bless America to close the meeting.
Sorry to miss you next week.

Born to run

Johnny Dangerously

Our eminent pianist started us off with a medley of children’s songs starting with this year’s Presidential theme song. (You all know the tune, It’s a ….)

Our dress code has reached new lows for the summer led by the South Congo table sporting Bermuda shorts accompanied by knobby knees. Today’s standout was none other than local fashion consultant, Dan Lyman Russell modeling a moth-balled 1960’s vintage madras sports coat. I don’t care what anyone says, I like the look. Apprehensive bell ringer Pres Krantz was masquerading as a diminutive Georgia peach. Mary Martin looked particularly lovely today. The graying/balding of America is no more evident than within the august halls of the VMC on Wednesdays’ noon. Notice this doesn’t apply to our female members.

Roger Nicholson briefed on his exit strategy before offering a thoughtful grace. We’ll miss you to be sure.

Today’s gastronomical delight included a buffet a la Krause. Sorry “Aw C’mon”, but you missed a real treat.

Attention new members, it’s your duty to pick up the attendance cards. It’s a way of familiarizing yourself with club members. Just a heads up for now. Be prepared to be chastised in future HG editions for non-compliance.

Mo Moshovos with a jaw full introduced our only guest, his friend Arthur Apostol (rhymes with apostle). Martin and Bradbury led the Westbrook welcome song. Mary planted a sloppy kiss on Rev Roger in hopes of redemption. Too bad Art’s great vocals aren’t matched by suitable Rotary attire.

Sgt-at-arms Johnny “that’s all you need to know” Mo listed the following fines, George Stewart for a 58th wedding anniversary. Our hearts go out to Jay. Ceil Collins for an unidentified birthday, Dr. Jack Martin for an introduction by Hilton Kaderli, Tom Galvin for some OB/GYN training, Don Hallquist for his music selection, Dan Larson for a new Larson, Joseph Eric (how to go Dorothy!), Bill Saunders for a story about his grandson, David (a 2004 EH Rotary scholarship recipient) (check out the UCONN alumni website via EH Rotary website).

Don Pitkin is looking for recruits to volunteer as EH historians for the School to Business Partnership.

Mary “the Empress of the World” Martin thanked Spurgeon Stokes, Frank Collins, Ceil Collins for their efforts in last Sunday’s BBQ.

Picnic/pool party at Dan & Loretta Dienst’s home on Aug 24. 4:00 for early dippers, 5:00 otherwise, bathing suits not required, great opportunity to dunk the President. Call Dan Dienst @ 569-2077 to sign up. Golf that same day at Blackledge CC. Tee times from 10:00 – 10:30. Call Bill Saunders @ 648-2842.

A progressive dinner is proposed for Nov 12. If you are willing to host a few Rotarian couples for an entrée, call Bill Leone @ 568-3512 right away. Step up to the plate Rotarians.

The Ridge will be closed from Sept 21 – Nov 2. Woopee! Will likely meet at South Congo. Would be interested in other venues however.

Our new elder statesman Dan Hudson Firestone referenced a letter from the School to Business Partnership thanking Rotary for their sponsorship of Career Day. Several letters from local 3^rd graders were circulated.

Golf Chair Bill Saunders noted that we have 25 sponsors, 26 raffle prizes, and 16 golfers lined up. The Tourney is but 6 weeks away. You do the math. Get off your butts!

We need someone to step up and replace Don Cramer to help collect and organize door prizes. Please call Bill ASAP.

July attendance was 78.5%. Not good by any definition. Believe it or not there is an attendance rule. For those of you that haven’t been paying attention, don’t be surprised if you get a pink slip!

Maker-uppers include Frank Collins, Ceil Collins, Pat Gately, and Jackie Danise.

If you missed the Saratoga trip, it was a blast. Great to have Sir Scotty Howat on board!

If your attire next week is even questionable, be prepared to get written up. If you didn’t get a mention in High Gear the past two weeks, you’ve got two more weeks to sweat out.

The boys of summer emerged once again for our annual attempt to both exhibit our resilience, grit and determination and risk injury to our aging bodies. Fortune would have it that our team was supplemented by three young and able bodied Larsons and a skilled younger Cunningham.

The EH squad started off with a 3-0 lead with some strong hitting and fine defensive plays. The middle innings were subject to a mild defensive letdown. Pitcher Shemo suffered a severe contusion to his right thigh after being hit by an errant throw to first base. This brave soul refused to be replaced with a base runner and played out the rest of the game. First baseman Dan Larson successfully fielded a hard throw to the breadbasket. Fortunately there was plenty of padding to soften the blow. The GL club battled back to take the lead. The EH club came back to lead 7-6 going into the bottom of the 5^th and final inning .A tremendous blast by a GL lefty with a runner on ended the game at 7:00, dinnertime.

Thanks to Dan and Neal for bringing their capable entourage. Isn’t it time our younger Rotarians got off their butts to participate in extracurricular activities? Our days of participating in this long standing tradition continue to wane. LET’S DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT!

Dinnertime: Nice to see Bob “Can’t Keep Me Down “Brown, Bob “Dodge” Popp, and Frank “Son of Mohegan” Kresson.

The Greeks had their way tonight. Food that is. Entrees choices included roast lamb and pork supplemented by rice and eggplant. A Greek salad on the side. Baklava for dessert. This was a Mo “I Don’t Share My Photos” Moshovos delight.

An old EH man Barry Callahan presided as president of the GL club. EH President Krantz extended thanks to the GL club in spite of the sobering loss. GL Captain John Dufford chided EH for loosing in spite of bringing in the ringers. EH captain Neal basically told him to shut the hell up. The balance of the meeting was essentially uneventful. Nice to be able to renew our friendship with the GL club.

A quiet, routine feeling to today’s meeting, with many Rotarians wearing shorts to help cope with the oppressive heat outside the building. President Carol presided serenely over the session, ignoring the strains of “It’s a small world, after all” which once again emanated from our piano player, and discounting the miniature bell that appeared in front of her place setting. Adding to the serenity was the quietly eloquent blessing delivered by the Rev. Roger Nicholson, taking a break from his interim mission of inspiring the faithful in neighboring Simsbury. The menu of chef’s salad and mint chocolate chip ice cream blended nicely with the mood in the room.

Our guests today were two of our scholarship recipients, Nick Fulco and Nathan Zebedeo, both recent East Catholic grads and matriculates to Boston College and NYU, respectively. Also sharing our meal was Anne Fulco, Nick’s mom and the former Probate Judge in town. Larry Hangland and Pat Gately lead the Welcome song and Pat was both surprised and chagrined to be presented with her permanent membership badge: surprised because it arrived so soon after her induction to the Club and chagrined because it lacked an “e” in the spelling, rendering it immediately useless. Corrective steps will be taken.

Dan Dienst stepped in at the last minute as Sergeant at Arms and announced a few fines for late arrivals and no pins. John Shemo paid for a birthday, and Bob Wood (20), Art Bradbury (37) and Dan, himself, (9) paid for club anniversaries.

On the Injured Reserve Report, we heard the following: John McNaughton is recuperating from a broken leg from a domestic mishap; Gil Wishart is home after a disc operation; Carmen Piscatello’s sister passed away; Bob Brown is doing well after heart surgery and hopes to play golf soon; and Jim Sheehan successfully reduced the size of his tumor and is now headed into six weeks of chemo with a positive prognosis. Cards and phone calls would be in order.

q Next Monday evening is our annual visit with Glastonbury Rotary at the Elks Club. Softball game to be followed by meal and fellowship. No noon meeting at the Ridge next Wednesday.

q Saratoga Trip on Sunday, August 7. Meet at the Clubhouse at 8:15. Snacks and sandwiches will be provided. Welcome to bring own coolers on the bus.

q The Golf Tournament has 19 sponsors and 14 players to date. Now is the time to come to the aid of the party.

q Mark August 24 on your calendars. In lieu of our regular meeting, we will enjoy an evening picnic at the Diensts’ home. There will also be a golf outing that day.

q Peter Klock has UConn Tickets available for order until August 5^th. See or call him for details.

q Mary Martin is still looking for a couple of volunteers to man the ticket booth at the BBQ Cook-off on August 7^th.

Bill Saunders was our raffle winner today and he bought the beer après golf with his winnings. What a guy!

That’s it for now. My month as editor has flown by. My sincere apologies to any I’ve offended with my piquant sense of humor. I know there is at least one who took umbrage with my scribbling.

For now I think I’ll go sit next to Mariano Rivera in the bullpen and wait for a save opportunity. Probably in late October. Right, Ruthie? WDOUGW

How hard was it to get to Rotary today? Well, for some of us who came in from I-84, we had to endure a detour that took us down Oak Street, along Forest, and up Forbes before we could see our way clear to the Ridge. Others skipped it entirely so they could get a head start on the Past Presidents’ Picnic tonight. And then there was one of us who ran out of gas on the way for the second week in a row. Maybe, just maybe, he was heard to concede, his gas gauge might be broken. Do you think? Duh!

Regardless, those who arrived for our weekly breaking of bread arrived safely and in a good Rotary mood. Our erstwhile President returned behind the podium this week, struggling mightily to be heard over the din. A more forceful ringing of the bell might help.

The Introduction of Guests was a little rocky, with our rookie President having a hard time spotting the guests over the Rotarians seated in front of her (“must be a little short-sighted,” commented one wag willing to forfeit a buck). But ultimately, all were recognized and they included Jack McCormick, a cousin of Peggy Schoen; John Murawski, one of our scholarship recipients; Sharon Fitzgerald, unashamed to admit in public that she is the smarter and better looking sibling of Dan Larson; and old pal, Roger Nicholson, who declared he had “chased the devil out of Pittsburgh” and was harassing Him in Simsbury for the next few weeks. It is always good to see the itinerant Reverend. In the absence of our piano player, Tom Westbrook and Art Bradbury lead a rousing Welcome Song.

Marcia LeClerc, missing in action as sergeant – at –arms last week, returned with a flourish today, demanding reparations from those who “mocked” her last week, namely Dan Larson who was certainly guilty as charged, Tom Galvin, who had the good sense to skip today’s meeting, and President Carol, who had nothing whatsoever to do with it. Fines were collected from Bill Leone and Skip Guillemette, for birthdays. Skip’s qualified him for the 70 Club, and was combined with a wedding anniversary. Lots of no pins, late arrivals and early leavers paid as well.

q The meeting of Committee Chairs scheduled for next week has been postponed until date to be announced.

q Beginning August 10, meal prices will increase $1, one dollar, to meet increase received from our caterer.

q Mary Martin thanked those who volunteered for the Disaster Drill next Wednesday and solicited volunteers for the Barbeque Contest at Martin Park on Sunday, August 7^th. Five or six Rotarians are needed to sell food tickets between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Also opportunities available on Saturday for two people to direct vendors to assigned spots. This is a 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. shift. See Mary.

Dick McCarthy won the raffle yet again. No makeups reported this week. That does it for now. Short and sweet. WDOUGW

For a minute there, it appeared that we were about to experience the shortest presidency in East Hartford Rotary history. After just one meeting behind the podium, President Carol was nowhere to be seen. President Elect Dan Larson had donned the Rotary medallion and was wielding the presidential baton with a haughty authority. But he soon assured us that all was well with our leader. She was just tied up in a business commitment. So the prospect of a short presidency was alleviated, in at least that sense of the word.

Instead, our lone guest, Steve Brodie, Dan Dienst’s son-in-law, and a goodly crowd of local Rotarians were treated to the boisterous Dan and Tom Show. In addition to Dan Can’t Hold My Gas Larson as acting president, we were subjected to Tom You Can Call Me Marcia If You Want To Galvin as sergeant at arms. A volatile and riotous combination, if there ever was one.

An eloquent grace by the Reverend Dan Russell preceded our repast of open-faced bacon, lettuce and turkey sandwiches and modest slices of chocolate cake. Not bad, but then, other than Moe Belanger, who comes to Rotary for the meal?

No, we come to watch Don Pitkin leading the welcome song, earning both a goose and a new badge from our acting president. We come to witness a mincing Tom Galvin levy fines on himself, “sixty-four and damned glad to be here” and Mo Moshovos, “seventy-one and still a cheap bastard” for birthdays and an entire table for their Enron like swiping of the president’s baton, “squeeze one and the others will tumble like flies.”

When some semblance of decorum was restored, we got to the few announcements today:

q Empress Martin reminded one and all of the Mock Disaster Drill next Wednesday (see her for directions) and the School Supplies Collection ending in two weeks.

q She also put in a plug for the Rockville Rotary Golf Tournament to be held July 25^th at Ellington Ridge. They need golfers and can be reached at 860-731-5500 x170 (Paul Sheridan.)

q Past President Neal Cunningham reminded his fellows of the Past Presidents’ Picnic next Wednesday in East Hampton. Cocktails at 5:00 p.m. and Dinner at 6:00. Come early if you want a boat ride or Rotary Fellowship. Contact Neal at 860-623-0144 if you know of someone (non-member Past Presidents and/or deceased Past Presidents’ wives) who should be invited.

Larry Frazier won the raffle today and we had one makeup submitted – Lionel Lessard at Rockville. There was no program, so after a rousing verse of God Bless America, we adjourned to the golf course. Another memorable session in the books.

In closing, a paraphrase of the immortal Satchel Paige…” Don’t look behind just yet, Ruthie, but someone is definitely gainin on ya’.” ‘Till next week. WDOUGW

“It’s a Small World, After-All…” And so it began. Our diminutive diva, microphone firmly in hand (not tall enough to speak into the podium microphone holder) called her first meeting as President to order while being serenaded by one and all. Rumor had it that she was blushing as the serenade continued but there were too many normal sized Rotarians seated at the tables in front of the podium to see her clearly. Bill Flynn, making what might be his last official attempt to intercede with the Almighty on behalf of this Club, mercifully refrained from any “short” jokes in his blessing.

Nick Cecere and Doug Willett led a rousing edition of the Welcome Song in honor of Rick Lawrence from Manchester, Conrad Thamm from Avon-Canton and Joe Senak, an intern with Herb Barall. Sergeant At Arms Mark Sirois, filling in for Danny Got Some Kind of Bug Larson, reported on a series of minor infractions, and scored big on Gil Wishart’s 49^th wedding anniversary, Jim Fallon’s new grandson, Henry Joseph Maytum, and President Carol’s daughter’s birthday. Valerie is a real Yankee Doodle Dandy, born of the Fourth of July.

q Annual Softball Game and Meeting with Glastonbury is set for Monday, August 1^st. No Wednesday meeting that week.

q High Gear Committee is short a couple of writers for this year. Volunteers are encouraged to speak to Sue Klock or Doug Willett.

q Mary Martin called attention to the opportunities for volunteerism listed on the pink sheets on the tables and reminded the Club that the School Supplies effort is wrapping up on July 28^th.

q Larry Hangland reported on the Scholarship Committee results. Twenty-one applications were received, with four $2500 scholarships being awarded. Larry expressed concern with the systemic issues that make it difficult to award applicants from Synergy and Cheney Tech. The Committee will attempt to mitigate these issues in the coming year.

q The Past Presidents’ Picnic will be held on Wednesday, July 20 at the Clubhouse on the Stewart’s lake. Official picnic begins at 5:00 p.m. with catered dinner set for 6:00 p.m. but George is encouraging early arrivals (anytime after 2:00 p.m.) for those who would like to go on a boat ride or just enjoy Past President Fellowship.

q President Carol is calling a meeting of all committee chairs for July 27^th at which time she will be collecting committee goals and plans for the year.

Peter Klock presented the Club with a banner from the Rotary One Club in Chicago, Paul Harris’s home club and the first club in Rotary history. Others who had make-ups at the International Convention were Frank and Ceil Collins, Steve Jacoby, Sue Klock and Doug Willett. Jim Fallon won the raffle today. There was no program.

All in all, this first meeting, although a little short, was quite successful. But it is going to be very hard to resist tormenting our new President with vertically challenged jokes all year, so I have a modest proposal. Let’s agree that every time someone makes a reference to our President’s height from this point forward, the transgressor be fined One U.S. Dollar and, at the end of the year, all proceeds be given to the Rotary Foundation in President Carol’s honor. For example, say I’m tempted to recall the words of the wise guy who said, “Never trust short people. Their brains are too close to their bottoms.” That is certainly worth a buck to a good cause. I’ll brief you again next week. WDOUGW

With a relatively soft gong, and a few chuckles, this evening began with an unusual invocation — Longtime High Gear Chair, Bill Flynn, announced his “permanent” move to Florida, and this particular High Gear editor realized it was the announcement of a huge loss to our club. Elaine and Bill will be moving this coming week, “hasta la vista, babies!” After over thirty years of membership in our club and, by tacking on some years in other areas of the northeast — over thirty-six years as a Rotary-involved couple. Bill has been the best chair of high gear ever. (And, that’s after his having been a member of the board and President of our club.) Thanks, Bill, for all your years of Service Above Self in our area; we know you will continue and those in Florida will benefit.
Bill’s invocation was certainly special, as we realized it would be his last as one of us, but also because he focused so well on those things dearest to the hearts of Rotarians as we round out this year of celebrating Rotary’s 100^th year.

Have Don Hallquist to thank for all the music this evening; do enjoy having our own piano man, not all clubs have that! And to top it off, our very own lyricist, Tom Westbrook, led the Welcome Song tonight..

After welcoming guests — special thanks to DG Seidman for sending Asst. DG Richard Borden of Manchester Club to celebrate this passing of the torch — and focusing on the many Past District Governors in our midst, a great tribute to efforts of our club in District 7890, Dan mentioned especially how wonderful it is to have PDG Jim Sheehan, accompanied by Ruth, “a real; babe” according to a lone Yankee fan in the vicinity of this editor’s table, and of course noting how proud we are to have in our midst Frank and Ceil Collins, who together are working at the highest levels of Rotary International to achieve Rotary goals. (Frank is our RI delegate to the UN for any of you who have been dozing for the last year or so. Ceil is the newest member of our East Hartford Rotary Board, Sergeant-at-arms, but more importantly, she is a walking encyclopedia of what’s going on in Rotary in the world.)

President Dan took a few moments to line up his board and give thanks to them and the many other significant club members who have made his year a grand success. Then he handed over the medallion to incoming President Carol, whereupon he “faded into the immediate obscurity of a . . . club Past President.” (great quote from Doug W, when Pres. NC went into obscurity.) Just a note here: these Past Presidents are careful to celebrate their “pastness.” This year’s picnic for Past Presidents will be Wednesday, July 20^th, 5 PM, at Lake Pocotopaug’s “clubhouse.” More details to follow, or contact PP Neal for information.

Out with the old, in with the new. President Carol began by introducing her friends and family, then, the incoming Board of Directors, and took a few minutes to outline her plans for the year. A final note, in a gesture so much like him, President Dan opted to have his outgoing President’s gift be a donation to the Rotary Foundation — $300 for the foundation’s good works has been contributed by our club. I am sure PP Dan thanks you all.

Ever the Empress, Mary, who organized and oversaw this installation dinner for Carol, also had some announcements out on every table for Rotarians, friends and family. Among these, Mary is reminding us of the “mock “ medical disaster scheduled with the town’s health department on Wednesday, July 27^th. Volunteers from our club will act as “victims” of a pretend case of anthrax contamination who need medication — of course, this is only a drill — no need to act sick or to take any actual medication. Location is Two Rivers Magnet School, next to Route 2, from 4 to 6 PM on July 27^th. “Victims” can register and be in and out in about a half hour; you will not be committing to the full duration of the drill; Consider helping our town with this interesting event.

Another item on Mary’s flyer of events to remember — school supplies collection drive which has been underway for a few weeks and will continue until Thursday, July 28^th. Give your supplies to Mary or drop them off at Town of East Hartford Social Services’ office in the lower level of Town Hall.

Last but not least, heads up, mark the date on your calendar, just two days before our famous East Hartford Rotary Club Invitational Golf Tournament, which will be on Monday, September 26^th, this year’s Rebuilding Together Day is scheduled for Saturday, September 24^th. Our club will be helping in a variety of ways, ranging from distributing food and drinks to workers to overseeing or participating in home repair and renovation tasks at sites around town. Save the date to help!

Sue Klock, dedicated to Bill Flynn, co-chair for this one last week of High Gear .

As we arrived at the Ridge on this first Wednesday of Summer our attention was drawn to the side room where President Dan was throwing us a wine and cheese party. Words of advice for incoming President Carol - remember the medallion!!!! Thanks, Dan, for forgetting!! Thanks also must go to Dean Roland, the club's wine steward and chief party planner. You do a great job in this role. As the noise level began to escalate, it became time to enter the main hall to begin our regular activities. After our opening ritual, Rev. Ted gave a thoughtful invocation and urged us to see all the goodness around us, and to empower us as Rotarians to make things better. Luncheon was served and consisted of roast lamb, rice pilaf, and grilled squash which was followed by tapioca and whipped cream.

Following lunch, Pres. Dan called us back to order a little sooner than usual. The following guests were introduced; Bob Dugger from Glastonbury, Gordon Surtlief, from Torrey Pines, California, and Gordon's friend from Manchester, Mark Ray. The Welcome song was led by a spirited Kathy McCabe, who has been away for awhile, with Don, as usual, at the Piano. Welcome back, Kathy. The Sgt. at Arms report was delivered by Dan Dienst. He had one birthday - Don Cramer, and several anniversaries - John McNaughton -17, Mo Moshovos -36, and Gil Wishart - 4. Dan Russell contributed because his grandson's soccer team had just won its third State Championship. Mo Moshovos also contributed for a new grandson. The Raffle was won by Mo Moshovos. One of our guests, Gordon Surtlief, asked if we would sing Happy Birthday to him if he donated $25 to the club. We accepted his offer. and even sang it twice in hopes he would double the offer!

2. Dan mentioned recent club publicity - for the School Business Partnership Career Day and the Taste of Hartford's use of the Gazebo.

3. We received a thank you from the District Governor for our contribution of $1000 to the District's tsunami relief fund. The District raised $14,000.

4. The Club received a thank you from Laura Larson, John's daughter, for helping her attend a youth leadership conference in Washington, D.C.

5. He had a note from Roger Nicholson, now a Pittsburgh Area Rotarian, indicating that he had just hosted a GSE member from Japan.

6. Neil Cunningham spoke briefly about the Past President's Party which has been put off until mid August. Call him if you have any thoughts about this.

7. And finally, Jim Reik spoke about going into a restaurant in Montenegro on May 23rd and seeing Rotary Flags all around. Jim sought out the owner who was thrilled to see a visiting Rotarian. He gave Jim a bottle of wine to present to the club. By unanimous acclaim it was given to President Dan who Indicated it was meeting #51. One More To Go!!!

Remember, no noon meeting next week. The Installation Banquet will be held at the Glastonbury Hills Country Club. Cocktails at 6:30, Dinner at 7:30.

Bill Saunders reminded us to get going on the Golf Tournament - Sponsors, Raffle Prizes, and Golfers are needed.

High Gear -- June 15, 2005

Dear Elsie,

I'm sorry you could not make the Sgt.-at-Arms party last night. It's true that we can't be everywhere at once, and you had another important engagement. But you surely did miss a festive occasion.

When I turned into Skyline Drive at 5:40 P.M. both sides of the street were already lined with cars, trucks, and assorted other means of conveyance. And walking across the lawn of the Leone Estate, it was obvious that the party was already well underway. Animated conversations in small groups were going on around the "refreshment" table and the narrow passageway between tables on the patio. Rotarians never seem to tire of talking with one another, have you ever noticed that, Elsie? At the far end of the patio the Master Chef himself scurried back and forth between kitchen and grills where another gourmet dinner was being prepared. To fend of our ravenous gluttony for the salmon and tenderloin with pasta and salad that soon were to be served, a table was laden with fresh shrimp, various seafood dips and crackers, cheese, pretzels, and I cannot remember it all because I was soon among those stuffing themselves and began to wonder how I would also manage the magnificent entrée. But dauntless Rotarians that we are, we met the challenge, Elsie, and would you believe? We even tamped it all down with vanilla ice cream and fresh strawberries, and for the non-purists in our midst, other assorted toppings! Oh, Elsie, I don't know what you had to eat last night, but you must be eating your heart out at the thought of what you missed.

At a propitious moment President Dan (it was 6:15 P.M. if you want to be picky), splendid in a "D & D" green racing jacket with yellow stripes at collar and cuffs, called the meeting to order. There was no Sergeant-at-Arms report, which to this experienced collector of alms seemed a most regrettable lost opportunity and even dereliction of responsibility. And there was no raffle, which annoyed me because it was surely my turn to win. We did have the usual introduction of guests. We were honored to have in our midst Mrs. Judy and Dr. Keith Barnard-Jones from Portland, England. Dr. Keith served with our own Frank Collins on the Rotary International Board of Directors. We also rejoiced that Scotty Howat, accompanied by Nurse Mary, and Frank Kreson, Jim Sheehan, Steve Guidatti, and not least Dick O'Brien joined us for the evening. Dick with great gusto led us in our traditional Welcome Song, which he dedicated to Roger Driggs.

RGA (that stands for "Rotary Golf Association in case you didn't know, Elsie) Director Bill Saunders reported on the tournament at the East Hartford Golf course earlier in the day. A field of twenty-one had shrunk to something like fifteen players by the time the tournament actually got underway, a response, no doubt, to fear of the fierce competition this event always involves. Bill announced that Dave Amberg won the longest drive contest. George Agnelli won both "closest to the pin" contests at holes #4 and #8. There were two teams tied for second place honors with a score of 73: Amberg, Frazier, Schoen, and Lemieux on one team and Dienst, Saunders, and Tamiso on the other. There were also two teams tied for first place at 72: Ghagan, Larson, Richmond, and Wood, tied with Flynn, Cramer, Westbrook and Agnelli.
Full credit goes to Sagacious Shot Selector George for this win, because he put Don Cramer in position to hole out a critical putt for par. Actually it was only Don's accomplishment that saved George from the wrath of his partners for selecting an impossible shot and insisting on it. Be that as it may, the competitors were rewarded with sleeves of golf balls.

That's about it, Elsie. A wonderful day - though a bit chilly on the course and around the tables late in the evening. But memorable for food and fellowship. Many thanks to our chef, to Bev Leone and Jean Roland for all their hard work behind the scenes, to those who did the set-up and those who stayed to help with clean-up. Where would the rest of us be without you??

Oh! Don't forget it's wine and cheese before the meeting next week. And the Golf Committee will also meet next week (6/22) at 11:00 A.M. at the Ridge. See you there.

Your Fellow Rotarian
LB

Another great summer day at the Ridge as President Dan rang the bell at 12:15 on the dot. He asked that we repeat the four-way test and not look at the banner. I think to his surprise (and mine); everyone seemed to know it.

Reverend Mosebach gave the invocation; (he asked that no one look at him either).

Sergeant at Arms again today was “Dangerous Dan Dienst” who reported a good day for adding to the coffers. Birthdays included President Dan Firestone, Stu Harris, and Chuck Clark. All paid well! Anniversaries included Nick Cecere, and Chuck Clark.

Darlene Roberts paid for her picture in the paper, and an unnamed Rotarian was fined for ducking out early last week without paying and showing up late today with no pin.

Get your money in to Mary Martin for the Installation Dinner on the 29^thif you haven’t yet paid.

Reminder, Herb Barall is being honored at the courthouse in Hartford at 1pm on June 15^th. Rotarians are invited to attend.

Bill Saunders is setting up a golf tournament next week before the Sergeant at Arms party. It will be held at East Hartford Golf course, and will start at 10:30am. Anyone interested who has not signed up, please contact Bill before Sunday so he can make the appropriate arrangements.

Don’t forget the “Sergeant at Arms” party at Bill Leone’s home. Save the date, June 15^th. It’s a great event and the foods (and drinks) are the best.

Bob Brown has been in the hospital but the good news is he will be coming home tomorrow. Get well soon Bob

We started our summer schedule this week so there was no guest speaker, but our District Governor; Dick Seidman paid us as farewell visit today. He indicated this would be his last time visiting East Hartford as the District Governor and expressed appreciation for all that our entire club has done and the support he has received.

He presented the club with the District's [new] Outstanding Service Award for 2004-2005.

In addition to the club Citation, he also presented Service Awards to Don Hallquist, Neil Cunningham, Steve Jacoby, Frank Collins, Ceil Collins, George Stewart, and Jim Sheehan. Congratulations to everyone who make this club so special.

Winner of the raffle today was Dean Roland. What are you going to do with all that money Dean?

June opened with a very pleasant day for us at the Ridge. President Dan opened the meeting promptly at 12:15 with the ringing of the bell, followed by the four-way test and his brief but eloquent blessing. (We sure missed Don Hallquist for the opening song)

Someone must be tipping the chefs well because the meal today consisted of a generous slice of prime rib, mixed vegetables, mashed potatoes and topped off by blueberry cobbler. I think everyone cleaned his or her plate.

Sergeant at Arms was the infamous “Dangerous Dan Dienst who reported a slow day. In addition to late arrivals and early leavers, Carol Krantz paid for her daughters’ safe return from Iraq, Steve Bates for his 10^th anniversary, and Dean Roland for a birthday. He wanted everyone older than him to stand up and sing, but Dan Larson indicated anyone older than Dean wasn’t able to stand up or could not hear the request, or both.

Mary Martin requested the payment from attendees at the installation Dinner on

Our own Herb Barall is being honored at the courthouse in Hartford. Rotarians

Don’t forget the Sergeant at Arms party. Bill Leone is hosting. Save the date,

15^th of June. Sign up if you haven’t done so. Anyone with a pickup truck willing

to help transport tables, chairs, etc. for the event, please call Tom Galvin to offer

Our speaker today (as it turns out only guest) was Celerick Stephens our Group Study Exchange Student to Argentina who works at Pratt & Whitney. I cannot imagine a better ambassador to represent our Rotary Club and our Country than Celerich. He spent one month in Argentina, and was in 5 provinces and 13 cities.

He spent several months studying his Spanish before the trip and it was the only language spoken there during his stay. He had several amusing antidotes concerning translations. Most important was his obvious infectious enthusiasm for the people and the Country. Al in all, Celerick made a very interesting presentation that made us all proud of Celerick and his representation from Rotary and the USA.

Rain and very cool temperatures inspired Maestro Don to entertain us with some very unseasonable, but cheery holiday music. The opening bell was rung by President Dan at 12:15 PM. The pledge and 4WT were followed by a few comments on the weather and then good thoughts by Rev. Bill Flynn

Lunch was a leftover from the Senior Citizens’ Dance, without the fruit salad, i.e., tossed salad, penne pasta with meatballs, sauce and grated cheese. Dessert was a choice of white cake or chocolate cake, either with chocolate frosting.

Guests: John Mitchell from the South Windsor Rotary Club, John Judd from the Hamden Club, speaker for the day, and, last, but not least, Luci Scerrato, with Nick Cecere.

Birthdays George Agnelli, George Steward, Roy Spiller, Those over 72 years of age sang to Roy and George

(1) Art Bradbury reported that Juan Pablo Hidalgo, a Rotary Exchange student 17 years ago, is getting married. The longtime bachelor has invited Rotary friends who hosted him (Bradburys, Stewarts, Woods as well as Helen Davis and her son, Greg), and all are heading to the Canary Islands next week. Doug Willett added that he and Diane just spent a delightful week visiting their former exchange student, Florence Vauraberg, in Bordeaux, France, where she lives with her husband and two-year-old daughter. She and her husband run the Chateau de Pic winery there.

(2) Glen Peterson reported on a discussion with Mary Martinez: the $1,000 the club is contributing to the literacy program will all go to the Sunset Ridge School (6^th grade). Rotarians wishing to add to this are encouraged to write a check, made out to East Hartford Community Projects, to help the school buy additional books from a list Glen handed out at the meeting. Call Glen if you need more information. Price range is $7 to $20 per book; a bargain for library-quality hardbound books.

(4) Memorial Day Parade participants should: meet before 9:30 AM behind McNulty’s Gym (aka Natural Bodies).

(8) Mary Martin needs your payment for installation dinner by next week. Bring it to Rotary on June 1 or mail it to her before then.

Today's speaker was introduced by Jackie Danise: John Judd of the Hamden Club is leading up an ambitious Statewide drive to make “Amber Alert Child IDs” for Connecticut’s youth. Each year (nationwide) 800,000 children under 18 years of age are reported missing. A little less than half are benign, 200K involve injury or being lost, 204K involve a member of the family abducting the child. But 58K are abducted by non-family members and are considered “endangered”. 74% of “endangered” children who are later found killed are killed within the first 3 hours of the abduction. Thousands are still missing each year.

Hamden Rotary Club, in coordination with the State Police, CT Chiefs of Police, and the University of New Haven (Henry Lee Institute) have developed a plastic scannable ID card containing a photo, age, distinguishing marks, height, weight and a unique Amber Alert ID #. Note: the name is left off the card! If a child is believed missing anywhere in the country, his/her parent can call the database center in CT and start procedures toward declaring an Amber Alert. The Club hopes to coordinate with up to 100 other Clubs in CT to create ID cards for between 300,000 and 400,000 children per year. John hopes that EHRC will be one of these Clubs.

Makeups: Frank & Ceil handed in a makeup list which was enough to make the weary weep — Port Canaveral Fl, District 6950 (cruise), Rotary Club of Nassau (and we’re not talking Long Island), and back to Manchester for a Foundation Dinner. Other makeups were a bit more ho-hum, but thanks for the effort: Bob Brown in Manchester on May 17^th and Steve Jacoby in South Windsor or April 20^th. Margaret Lacroix made up online with www.rotary5450.org, reviewing an article “Living Life in the Fast Lane.” Ceil and Frank could have written it, perhaps.

High Gear -- May 18, 2005

Hallelujah, Maestro Don is back, and we didn't have to rely on humming and wondering where the heck the right key was! Rev Bill offered our invocation and made the cloudy day sunny with his upbeat thanksgiving for our lives in and around the Rotary world. We sat comfortable with a sweet 'n sour Hawaiian chicken dish fit for the gods of Mauna Loa. Cream-topped strawberry/rhubarb pie encouraged us to "lap and retain."

The decibel level was certainly up this day; perhaps because all of the "snow-birds" have returned. At this scribe's table, June Cramer had brought husband Don up from the sunny south, although they both cut out early to catch a granddaughter's (Heather) softball game up in New Hampshire. Other guests included Kevin, a teacher-intern working with Glen Peterson, and Penny Brice & Mitsey Baker, our speakers. Still sporting Florida golf course tans, Herb Tischofer & Chuck Clarke did a very creditable job leading our Welcome Song.

Sgt At Arms Steve Bates had a long list of miscreants, to wit: Chickie Amberg's new car (for which Dave paid the fine); Roy Spiller & John Shemo, for something; John McNaughton for causing the blue-jacketed DEA agents to helicopter into his compound, ostensibly to shut down that illicit garden, only to find rows of tomatoes! Other achievements of the day were recognized as: awards for academic excellence by Bill Saunders' grandsons Kevin and David Liner (for which it was duly noted that it's all in the genes, Bill's that is, most humbly taking credit for their accomplishments!). Not to be outdone, Mo Moshovos proudly took credit for a new grandson, (sorry, Mo, I never got his name!)

Sponsored by Jacquie Danise, Pat Gately, our newest Rotarian, was installed with proper and fitting decorum by President Dan Firestone. A native of East Hartford, Pat works in real estate and has had a long and checkered career in serving the town of East Hartford on myriad boards and committees. Her uncle, Roy Powers, was a charter member of our club. Welcome, Pat, we're happy to have you aboard!

Name a worthwhile and memorable social event, and chances are you'll come up with John Shemo. Our first "Soc Hop" was an outstanding success, by any measure you want to use. With a hardworking committee including Tom Westbrook, Chuck Clarke, Dan Larson, and Bob Richmond, this fund-raising effort netted at least $11,000, coming from sponsors, as well as many Rotarians. Well done guys, the Cultural Center gymnasium looked just like our high school gyms of old!

Frank Collins asked for a moment of silence to pay respect to the late PDG Rod Hauser.

President Dan told of Board action in awarding a $250 Youth scholarship to Laura Larson, daughter of our Paul Harris member and Congressman John Larson.

Other announcements of the day included:
* Installation night for incoming prexy Carol Krantz on June 29…$35/per person (ask Mary M)
" Don Pitkin in need of our thoughts and prayers (39 Timber Trail)
" Golf Committee - 11:00 next week
" The Raffle - Won by Skip Guillemette

And, of course, our Program - and we should be proud of the work which the School- Business-Partnership accomplishes for the Town of East Hartford, for we presented them this day with a check for $12,000. Our speakers, Penney and Mitsey, told of the fine work their organization does in building trust and offering opportunities for the town's kids. They conducted a Career Day, a Community Day and a Speakers Bureau, all well attended with wonderful enthusiasm by hundreds of kids. Well done, Jim Fallon, Bill Saunders, President Dan, and all of the other East Hartford Rotarians who have worked to make this program such a grand success.

Make-ups? Only ones we know of are the Collins's, in PA, IL, RI, and Mexico!

And there you have it for another week, and wasn't it great to be together!
Arthur

After the cold and wet weekend just past, today’s weather was a true pleasure—the sort of day when you put the top down if you’re driving a convertible. We were missing our resident pianist today. Probably Don Hallquist’s duties at the District Conference worked his fingers to the bone. But Art Bradbury gave us the pitch, we launched into a lusty version of the R*O*T*A*R*Y song, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to our nation’s flag, and a recitation of the Four Way Test—words to live by. Bill Flynn added more words to live by, praising the Almighty for the beauty of the Spring day, and asking for blessings on Rotary, our projects and the fellowship and friendship around the tables.

Lunch consisted of roast loin of pork, au jus, with applesauce, roasted potatoes, green beans and carrots, followed by marble cake and ice cream which had been provided by Spurgeon Stokes in celebration of his eightieth birthday. Boy, he doesn’t look that old.

President Dan rang the bell early, citing a very full agenda. We had a stellar list of guests today: Stephanie Labanowski, member of our Town council, Mark Scheinberg, President of Goodwin College,. District Governor Dick Seidman of the Hartford Club, Assistant District Governor Dick Borden of the Manchester Club, Ed Firestone, also of the Manchester Club and brother of our standing president, and Hope Firestone, of the West Hartford Club and lovely wife of our president. Talk about a bunch of credentials! President Dan called upon the DG and ADG to lead us in the welcome song—Art Bradbury, from his seat, provided us with the pitch and tempo. We finished with great cheers and applause.

Sergeant-at-Arms Steve Bates reported contributions to the fund for birthdays: Herb Tischofer, Steve Bates, Jim Watts, Margaret LaCroix and Spurgeon Stokes. Herb Tischofer also paid for an anniversary. Steve was reluctant to fine George Stewart who was wearing a Bates (College, that is) hat and scarf, provided to George by Bill Flynn, but, if this reporter is not mistaken, George forked over. Dan Larson paid two dollars because his daughter just graduated from college, and that was all the money he had left.

President Dan gave a brief account of the District Conference held in Providence last weekend. The GSE Teams from Argentina and the Philippines gave wonderful reports. Celeric Stevens, team member sponsored by East Hartford, will be sharing his experiences with us in the future. Roger Nicholson was presented with a Paul Harris second level pin by the District in recognition of his many years as District Chaplain.

President Dan read an OpEd article from the New York Times, of today’s date, which article reported on the exceptional work of Rotary in eradicating Polio throughout the world. When that campaign started, in 1975, there were 1,000 cases of polio a week reported; now we’re down to 1,000 cases per year. That shows you what $600,000,000 in donations can do to change the world.

District Governor Dick Seidman took the podium briefly. He praised Roger Nicholson for his faithfulness in serving the District, noting that Roger will be in Simsbury for six weeks during the summer. Art Bradbury was thanked for his fine singing. There were, with the GSE Teams and the exchange students, fourteen countries represented at the Conference. When our team (Argentina) was assembled, only one member spoke Spanish. Before they flew south, they all knew Spanish, and in Argentina they made all of their presentations in that language. He touched briefly on the Ambassadorial Scholarship which is being permanently funded by Bob Dunn and his wife. Dick then asked George Stewart to talk about one of our members, one who is always there to help, works behind the scenes, always makes things happen. DG Dick then presented Dean Roland with a Commitment to Service Award from Rotary International. This is a rare and fitting award. After receiving his certificate, Dean passed by and I asked if he were not going to make a speech—he said no, that when he stands up, his mouth closes! Our Club also earned a Presidential Citation.

Remember the Sock Hop Saturday evening. Board of Directors will meet Monday evening at Dan Larson’s office. The raffle was won by Steve Bates.

Steve Jacoby introduced our speaker, Mark Scheinberg, President of Goodwin College. Mark said that East Hartford is a mature, accepting community, incredibly allowing, letting individuals grow. There is great power and strength in Goodwin College. It grew 42% last year, the fastest in the State of Connecticut. The College had evening programs for those who work. Its nursing program is the largest in the state. And all this has been accomplished with no monies from the state, no monies from foundations! A new campus will be developed along the river front—the College has been renting space from St. Rose and Burnside Methodist Churches. The first building should be occupied in the Fall of 2007. The campus will include three deep water docks (remember, it was an oil terminal) which will support river research.. The College has 1,500 students now, and expects 2,500 next year. And 6,000 when the new building is available for use. Wow! Mark is a motivated and creative individual, an interesting, enthusiastic, knowledgeable speaker. We ran late, but truly, it would have been fine to talk with him for another half hour at least. That would mean three more paragraphs as well. A great program.

Make ups: Don Cramer, Fort Myers Beach, Florida; Herb Tischofer, Naples Bay, Florida, twice.

President Dan rang the meeting to order promptly at 12:15. The call to colors and four-way test followed. PD then called upon returning Bill-the reverend-Flynn for the blessing. A lunch of fish, mashed potatoes, and eggplant with stewed tomatoes and spiced cake without frosting followed.

Guests today were former member Fred Campbell and Rochelle Ripley. The welcome song was ably conducted by the duo of Douglas-Bailey and Lacroix.

Sergeant-at –arms Steve Bates collected fins from Neal Cunningham, Margaret Lacroix, George Schoen, and Chuck Clarke for anniversaries, Bob Brown for his birthday and Mary Martin for…laughter, laughter, laughter, then George Schoen was at the mike thanking all who helped with the GSE program. Jack Ghagan asked for volunteers for the Memorial Day parade. Call Jack if you wish to march. Next Mary Martin (no laughter this time) reminded the members about the School Supplies project. Make-ups; Steve Jacoby with the GSE team in South Windsor and Willimantic.

John Shemo gave an up-date on the SOCK HOP to be held on May 14^th at the East Hartford Community Cultural Center as follows;

(1)Confirm your table reservation with John, (2) If you are signed up you will pay, (3) Bring payment to SOCK HOP, $35.00 pp, (4) Drive your vintage car, (5) Bring your yearbook/pictures, etc., (6) Dress for the era/ contests for the best dressed, (7) Bring a hor d’oeuvre for your table, (8) BYOB, (9) You may bring a cooler, (10) Ice and cups will be provided, (11) Attendees will clear tables at the end of the night, and (12) Menu: hamburgers, cheeseburgers, hot dogs, chips, pickles, ice cream, coke, 7-up, and coffee.

Steve Jacoby introduced our speaker Rochelle Ripley, Lakota Storyteller and teacher of Medicine Wheel wisdom. Rochelle told of the poverty, disease, lack of shelter, and unemployment of the Lakota Peoples on the Cheyenne River Reservation in South Dakota. Through her non-profit agency ‘hawkwing’ she is fulfilling a promise made to her Lakota Grandmother “to go home and help the people”.

Some causes are more worthy than others, this one is most worthy. To help or volunteer call her at 633-8933.

Today was a special day, in spite of the dreary, cool, misty, rainy weather. The Group Study Exchange Team from Argentina was with us for our weekly meeting, so there seemed to be lots of pre-lunch conversation, and the noise level continued throughout the meal. Following the ringing of the Bell, the singing of our opening song, the Pledge to our nation’s flag, and the recitation of the Four Way Test, Ted Mosebach offered a fitting invocation, ending with the plea that we might be granted peace in our time.

Krause presented us with a sumptuous buffet: baked ham carved to order, sliced turkey, baked beans, ziti, tuna salad garnished with hard-cooked egg wedges, a tossed salad with a choice of dressings, and finally, yummy cookies for dessert. Most of us had not finished eating when President Dan rang the bell again, ten minutes early by this writer’s watch. We had much which needed our attention. Guests today included Barry Callahan from Glastonbury, District Governor Dick Seidman, Rotary wives Debbie Wood, Peggy Schoen and Peg Spiller. And of course, the GSE Team, Francisco Critto, the team leader, Maria Luduena, Karina Vadamar, Romina Suarez Miskoski, and Julian Lenis. Tom Westbrook led us, with mucho gusto, in the Welcome Song.

Sergeant-at-Arms Carmen Piscatello reported that Jim Fallon had paid very handsomely for his birthday. Jim was recognized, having raised his hand, and said that he’d whispered in Carmen’s ear that he didn’t want anyone to sing to him but that Carmen replied “no one told him what to do.” We all sang to Jim. The Yankee fans paid for the triumph of A-ROD last evening, and there were the usual late arrivals and early departures who also paid.

Announcements for the good of the club: Sue Klock reminded those who had signed up that the Annual Senior Prom is tomorrow. The GSE Team will be at Spiller’s Friday evening. Mary Martin announced that East Hartford’s Social Services Department is beginning its request for “Back to School” backpacks for the kids who are less fortunate than our own. Bill Saunders is calling the Golf Tournament Committee together for a meeting at 11 o’clock next Wednesday morning, before our regular meeting. Jim Sheehan has begun his chemo and radiation treatments, and is driving himself to and from the treatment centers. He’ll call on us when and if needed. Art Bradbury is in the hospital with, as of lunch today, an undiagnosed stomach ailment. Let us keep all of our friends in our hearts and minds.

The winning raffle ticket was drawn by one of the GSE team members; another member, Maria Luduena, won! Way to go!

George Schoen introduced the GSE team leader, Francisco Critto. Francisco thanked us for the invitation to take part in our weekly meeting, and noted that their stay is Connecticut was, as he put it, so far, so good. Francisco, besides being active in his own Rotary Club, is past president of a non-profit organization which concentrated on special needs of children. As a reporter, it is important to admit that the heavy Spanish accent takes a bit of getting used to, before the thoughts begin to run in a smooth and orderly fashion. He brought us greetings from his own District Governor, whom our DG knows personally. Francisco them introduced his team members, giving us a mini-bio of each.

The team first treated us to two Argentinean songs, with Julian playing his guitar, all four singing. We were told beforehand that they are not professional, but they sure sounded great. The music, accompanied by a lot of foot stomping and hand clapping, was filled with rhythm and verve. How many of us remember ever having been that young, that good looking, or that talented?

The team had assembled a power point show: Argentina, The Southern Paradise. Beautiful photographs were accompanied by live commentary. A short geography lesson: Argentina lies in the southern part of South America. Its climate varies from tropical to arctic, with rain forests in the north, and glaciers in the south. The beautiful and varied landscape includes very modern cities and ancient Indian ruins. In parts of the country the Indian culture still thrives. Agricultural crops include soy, wheat, sugar cane, maize and, of course, from the vineyards, excellent wine.. Tourist attractions have fascinating names like the “Train to the Clouds” and “Valley of the Moon.” There is good ski country and wonderful scuba and snorkeling areas. Buenos Aires, the capital, boasts the widest avenue in the world. One of the southernmost provinces is Patagonia, a jumping-off point for visiting Antarctica. Truly is looks like a place worthy of an extended visit.

The meeting ran overtime, but was well worth the extra few minutes. President Dan presented the group with mementos of East Hartford—pens, book, tee shirts and banners.

Make-ups reported: Don Cramer, Fort Myers Beach, Florida, twice, and Sanibel-Captiva, Florida; Chuck Clarke and Herb Tischofer, Naples Bay, also part of Florida, each, three times.

Pat Gately has been proposed as a new member. She’s been with us a number of times; paperwork is somewhere in process. It will be good to officially make her a member.

It has been a pleasure and a privilege to have been your scribe for the month of April. I look forward to another assignment. Meanwhile, keep the peace.

The weather today was more like August than April, but the heat seemed to make everyone upbeat, talkative, and glad to be alive. Our opening was the usual: ROTARY Song, Pledge to our nation’s flag, recitation of the Four Way Test, and an invocation, offered by your High Gear editor. As lunch was being served, John Shemo approached the podium, and after a bit of difficulty getting the group’s attention, announced that he was circulating three sign-up sheets for the Sock Hop: one for basic attendance, one to be a Rotary Sponsor, and a third, a list of potential sponsors, with the hope that some member would have a fruitful contact at the businesses named.

Lunch was a tossed salad with Italian dressing, ziti with tomato sauce, chicken parmesan, and tapioca pudding. It was colorful and nourishing.

President Dan rang the bell five minutes early, noting that he had a full agenda. Guests today included our District Governor Dick Seidman, past member John Horn, back in East Hartford from Florida, proposed new member Pat Gately, Realtor, Bob Dugger from the Glastonbury Club, and Steve Bates, Jr., 10-year old son of our member by the same name. Our speaker for the day was Leonard Boyle, Connecticut’s Commissioner of Public Safety. Steve Bates the Elder led us in the Welcome Song.

Sergeant-at-Arms Carmen Piscatello collected fines as follows: from Spurgeon Stokes for fifty-two years of marriage, Bill Secord for his birthday (we all sang), George Agnelli for thirty years in Rotary, and for having had their pictures in some publication, Carol Krantz and Dan Firestone.

Dick Seidman gave a brief report: today was his 150^th visit to a club! He informed us that the traditional attendance contest at the District Conference would be on again this year, and that, for the moment, East Hartford was leading by one person. He also said that at the Saturday night banquet one of East Hartford’s own would receive some special recognition. Just who is a secret for the time being. The District will have an informal Hospitality Suite at the International Convention, open most evenings except during the Tuesday night formal banquet. The Convention is June 18-22 in Chicago, home of the White Sox, Marshall Fields and the Art Institute of Chicago.

Frank Collins told us that as of April 6^th; Rotary had shipped 7,000 shelter boxes to house those who lost their homes in the tsunami disaster in Asia. Since that date, another 2,000 boxes have been shipped. That equates to shelter for 90,000 homeless people.

We received a “Thank You” from the YMCA for our annual support. President Dan attended the annual meeting of the School-Business Partnership, at which Rotary was mention numerous times. George Schoen’s wife is home and doing well. The GSE Team will be with us next Wednesday. A laptop with a power point attachment is needed. All the arrangements for them are in place. Remember the gathering at Spiller’s next week Friday evening to spend some time with the team members. Bring snacks or desserts. The raffle was won by District Governor Dick Seidman. His ticket was one digit lower than mine!

Roy Spiller introduced Len Boyle, who has had a long career in law enforcement, both as a police officer (in East Hartford under Chief Drumm) and as an attorney. He worked in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut, and served as the Assistant United States Attorney for Connecticut and Counsel to the United States Attorney for Connecticut. He investigated and prosecuted violations of federal criminal laws, including public corruption, civil rights, corporate fraud, violent crimes and narcotics trafficking—all sorts of bad doings. He served as a professor at UCONN Law School, and was appointed Commissioner of Public Safety by Governor M. Jodi Rell last August. Len has a sense of humor. He began by saying that one should have a good opening, a good closing, and should keep them close together. Why did he say yes to Governor Rell? Because he feels that good order is the foundation of all things, and that a good police department is part of that. The department he heads comprises dedicated and talented employees. Under his aegis are the Forensic Services which has received world wide acclaim under Dr. Henry Lee, the Offices of the State Building Inspector and the State Fire Marshal, and the Police Division, which included 1,400 of the 1,800 employees. Len talked about social skills and face to face communication which seem to be overshadowed in this age of computerization. New methods of fingerprinting (electronically) allow matching and identification of individuals with prints on file across the country in a matter of two hours, often less time than that. We may eventually see such identification needed for credit card use. Such identification also becomes important in cases of sex offenses, homeland security and fire arms sales. He also noted that gang violence is a disturbing trend. He was a riveting speaker.

Make ups: Bob Wood, Bridgeton, Maine; Frank and Ceil Collins: Wilbraham, Massachusetts 30^th Anniversary, Charlotte Harbor, Florida, 25^th Anniversary, District 6960 College of Governors, Lake Wood Ranch, Florida, Rotary Meeting, and West Springfield, Massachusetts, District Assembly. And Frank all by himself, in New York City, at UN/Rotary.

We closed with one verse of God Bless America. It was good to be together. --------Dan Russell

The day was, as was last week, very pleasantly springlike; the sun was welcoming even if the breeze was chilly. At least the forsythia, the magnolias and the daffodils are in bloom. Some of our snow birds are back—Chuck Clarke and Doug Willett—nice to see them. Don Hallquist was at the keyboard. Preprandial music included “Over the Rainbow” and “The Hills are Alive with the Sound of Music.”

George Stewart gave the invocation. The recitation of the Four Way Test sounded as though most of us know it by now. Lunch was a small piece of chicken breast with a tomato/mushroom sauce, rice and green beans; strawberries over ice cream ended the meal.

A sign-up sheet for the Senior Citizens Prom was circulated. In spite of last week’s confusion, the event will be Thursday, April 28^th. Pasta chefs are needed form 2:30 to 6:00 p.m. Thirty-two Rotarians, including some spouses, have signed up to work. The GSE Team from Argentina will be there also. Lets hope the kitchen is large enough to hold the entire crew.

Announcements: Bev Saunders, wife of Bill, is in the hospital for cardiac tests. Peggy Schoen, wife of George, is in the hospital for for a nasty viral infection. Jim Sheehan is facing chemotherapy for a tumor. Some of us know that chemo can work wonders. Lets keep both these friends in our thoughts and prayers.

Guests today included Lucille Bailey, Pat Gately, a prospective new member (she’s been through Rotary Information) and Charlotte Bradbury. Jim Watts led the Welcome Song. The Sergeant-at-Arms, Carmen Piscatello, thanked those who were late or who planned to leave early, for their contributions. John McNaughton, and Chuck Clarke and then, later, Doug Willett, paid for having returned from Florida. Doug protested. Birthdays: Larry Churchill and Andy Andreo, who also paid for Roger Nicholson’s birthday, since he and Roger share the exact same day. Andy asked that all those born after 1928 serenade him—that meant most of us. Marcia Leclerc paid for her 6^th Anniversary. A few baseball aficionados paid because either the Yankees or the Red Sox had won games. Carmen reminded us that all these collections go into the Scholarship Fund [unless you make out a check to the Rotary Foundation].

Scotty Howat is still at Manchester Manor and apparently enjoys visitors. His son reports that he is doing very well and might return home soon. Art Bradbury reminded us that yesterday, April 12^th, was the 50^th anniversary of the okay of the Salk vaccine for polio. In 1985 Rotary International initiated the Polio Plus Program. East Hartford raised $85,000 toward immunizing children world wide—the number is now up to some two billion, in 122 countries, who have received the vaccine. Up-coming events include the Sock Hop on May 14^th, and the GSA Party at Spillers on the 29^th of this month. District Conference: May 6-8 in Providence; International Convention in Chicago, June 18-22. Habitat for Humanity workers this past week: Bob Richmond, Dave Amberg, Dan Firestone and Jack Sayre. The Raffle was won by Glen Peterson.

Our speaker today was Charlotte Bradbury, lovely, articulate wife of Arthur. Charlotte reported on her experiences while on a Mission Trip to Haiti about a year ago. A group of 22 individuals comprising doctors (one, Art’s brother), dentists, nurses, entertainers, construction technicians and laity almost canceled the trip because of the political unrest, but they persevered. Severe fighting over Aristide’s regime broke out soon after the group returned to the US. One of Charlotte’s goals was to try to understand poverty, which in that country is extreme. It is difficult for us, we who have so much and who have access to so much more, to comprehend the misery and the squalor and the lack of what we consider must-haves. Charlotte kept us fascinated with little stories of old women, young children, the need for just basic medical supplies and basic housing. This is a culture totally outside our ken. Only five percent of the population have electricity. Voodoo exists, is real. But she felt that if she had helped one person, it was all worth while. Charlotte received long and enthusiastic applause when she concluded her fascinating talk.

Make-ups: Bob Brown, Manchester; Walt Kupchunos, Venice, Florida, twice; Roy Spiller, Rockville, three times, and Glastonbury, once. Way to go. We closed with one verse of “God Bless America.” The day was still beautiful, it was great to be able to enjoy it.

Corrections and omissions from last week: Todd Andrews did the invocation, not Dave Amberg. Apologies to both. Make-ups from last week: Jackie Danise, Venice-Nokomis, Florida, twice; Don Cramer, Fort Meyers Beach and Sanabel-Captiva, Florida.

The day was very pleasantly springlike; the warmth was welcoming. President Dan, after he had rung the bell, wondered aloud if the golf courses had opened, since the attendance seemed so sparse—there were barely thirty hardy souls gathered for our opening. We finally ended with forty-five as members and guests trickled in. Our Rotary Song was a capella, we saluted our nation’s flag, lurched through a recitation of the Four Way Test, and listened to Todd Andrew’s invocation.

Lunch menu: Krause’s famous chicken pot pie, apparently a club favorite, accompanied by coleslaw, followed by chocolate cake.

Guests today included Laura Lundgren, a friend of Sue Klock; Pat Gately, a potential new member, guest of Jackie Danise; and Gil Spencer of the Glastonbury Club. President Dan wondered aloud what his “undertaking” might be. Tom Westbrook led us in a spirited version of the Welcome Song.

Carmen Piscatello is the month’s Sergeant-at-Arms. He advised latecomers to pay up, saying he was not about to chase them, but if they waited until next week, the fine would be doubled. Jack Ghagan paid for a birthday; we all sang. John McNaughton also had a reason to be fined, but he ws broke, so that report, and much money will also have to wait until next week. John Mozzicato paid because the Yankees had beaten the Red Sox twice. George Agnelli paid for having had a photo of his business establishment in the Journal Inquirer. Pat Porteous paid for her fifth anniversary.

Don Pitkin, retired from Pratt and Whitney, member of our Town Council, was inducted as the newest member of East Hartford Rotary. His proposal was supposed to have been in last week’s High Gear, but some of the high jinks of the Paul Harris Celebration got in the way. Don was sponsored by Dan Dienst. President Dan read the litany of the nomination, which incorporates the high ideals of Rotary International and its members. Don will celebrate his 84^th birthday tomorrow, the 7^th of April. Don and this reporter have lived on the same street for more than forty years.

There were many announcements. John Shemo thanked all those members who have supported the Sock Hop as Business Sponsors. Rotary Sponsorships are available for $50. Remember that besides being a fun evening, this is a fund raising event for our club. President Dan thanked Bill Leone and his committee, and Tom Westbrook and Don Hallquist for making the Paul Harris event so successful and enjoyable. Volunteers at the EHPD Operation Identification held in conjunction with the Annual Easter Egg Hunt held March 26^th included Dave Amberg, Steve Jacoby, Mary Martin, Pat Porteous and Gil Wishart. Sue Klock reminded us that the Senior Citizens’ Prom will be Thursday, April 26^th. Pasta chefs are needed. The GSE Team from Argentina will also attend. There will be a gathering at Spiller’s on Friday, the 29^th, with the GSE Team. Bill Saunders reported greetings from Roger Nicholson, who had sent a contribution for our Golf Tournament. We received an acknowledgment with thanks from the YMCA for our $1,000 donation. Bob Wood had had a phone call from Don Cramer, who was in Delaware, where Don’s 47 year old son was recovering from a heart attach. Don will be returning to Florida. The District Conference is May 6-8, in Providence. Registrations are still available. And remember the International Convention will be in Chicago in June. Guest Laura Lundgren, who is Director of Fund Development for Interval House, thanked us because we have supported that institution in the past. It provides shelter and counseling for battered women and their children. Interval House is sponsoring a gala dinner, dance and auction with a South American theme at the Goodwin Hotel on April 30^th. Invitations were available. Mary Martin reminded us that the installation of Carol Krantz as president will take place the last Wednesday in June at Glastonbury Hills Country Club. Mary is preparing the annual Presidential Citation Award application. We had no program.

As the sun faded on a pleasant Spring evening, we gathered at the Gallery Restaurant. We entered-mostly on time or early- one of the Great Philosophers of Life and Turf whose initials are Bob Brown commented "Open Bar certainly gets the Rotarians here on time." Anyone who was late missed the best hor d'oeuvres in this scribe's 17 years of Rotary. Many were speechless at the quality and volume (because their mouths were full.). The camaraderie of Rotarians and spouses was evident in the cocktail lounge.

President Dan rang the bell at 7:20 much to the consternation of those enjoying the open bar. Many later found that our host, The Gallery, was ever generous with the length of time and kept the bar open. We had a full evening but Bill Leone had it so well organized it moved quickly.

The program started with the national anthem performed professionally by our own Piano Man and our non-Rotarian Guest of Honor, Kate Preston. Larry Frazier giving the invocation followed this. His theme of Rotarians “keepers of the earth” was stirring and a close associate (Doris) was heard to comment "WOW... I was impressed." We all were! We went on to welcome many guests with our East Hartford song led by Tom Westbrook with his usual vigor.

THE…MEAL was simply outrageous (shrimp cocktail with a choice of three wonderful entrees) no more can be said. Gossip was that our golfing crew had ventured out during the warm spring day. They braved the snow in the sand traps and played well (so they said.)

At 8:47 President Dan turned the podium over to Bill Leone who gave us a brief overview of what the Paul Harris Award was all about. In brief, it started in 1917 with a $26.00 donation and has now passed one billion in charitable donations. The Paul Harris Award is the highest honor a club can bestow.

Bill passed the podium on to Frank Collins who handled the rest of the evening with his debonair style. The presentation of the Paul Harris Awards began with Ceil Collins who was called upon to introduce Sue Klock. Ceil recounted Sue’s history of superior academic and social service achievement. Sue received her new multi sapphire pin and silver centennial pin with a wish that Scotty Howat could have joined us this evening.

Bob Wood came forward to introduce the filling of the Klock sandwich. There has been a lot of meat in the accomplishment of David Amberg. Bob covered David’s very successful career at P&WA and his many, many "well done" projects for East Hartford Rotary. David accepted the award with a quote from Micah,"…Only do the right, love goodness, and walk humbly with your God.” A sentiment we should all take to heart. There was no comment on the several digs re his alma mater of storied football tradition, which he took like a gentleman. For all of the above, we allow him this... "Life is longer than one season." (Rockne, Leahy, Parseghian). He was presented with his medal by Chickie Amberg and his pins by Frank Collins.

Art Bradbury eloquently covered Peter Klock's many academic achievements as well as his vast array of travel and hobby accomplishments, but the list of his social service accomplishments was even more impressive. Peter accepted his sapphire pin in his own quiet manner and joined Sue in wishing that Scotty Howat was present.

A fourth Paul Harris was presented by President Dan to the love of his life, Hope Firestone. Everyone appreciated the great joy President Dan evinced in sharing Hope's many business, personal and Rotary achievements with all those present.

The final act of the evening was the presentation of the Vocational Service Award. It was pointed out that this is not an annual award but one that is only given when a person of true accomplishment is recommended to the committee. Kathleen Lynch Preston (President of Travelers Life & Annuity) more than meets that criteria. Rotary was treated to a description of her view of corporate responsibility to the community without depriving the shareholders. It is a difficult juggling act, which she has handled with skill and compassion. Frank Collins presented the award plaque. He took a moment to allow the entire gathering to view the professional quality and elegance of the award being presented. (Ok… that's worth a $5 fine to the supplier of the plaque.)

The collective accomplishments of the 5 recipients are far too many to detail in this format even if the scribe could write that fast. We would like to congratulate all of this evening’s recipients.

One verse of America and we were on our way, all enthusing about the wonderful job Bill Leone and his committee did!!!

The day was gray and blustery with a potential snowstorm moving in from the west, but the fellowship inside the Ridge was warm with good spirits. The migrating birds of nature are back from the south, but most of our SnowBirds are still in the warmer climes. Our Piano Man was cranking out show tunes to the delight of all. (I was afraid a dance was going to break out)

We came to order at 12:15. All joined for The Pledge, Four-Way Test, and Darlene Roberts gave the Invocation. Our meal was tossed salad, lasagna, followed by Birthday Cake.

Yes, Birthday Cake. It was rolled in mid meal with a rousing rendition of Happy Birthday Carmen. 90 years young..... with panache Carmen Piscatello blew out the candles and was treated to a kiss on the cheek by President Elect Carol. The cake was accompanied by balloons which Carmen loaded into the back seat of his car before he drove home! (after the meeting)

The bell rang at 12:45 with an echo. Celerick Stevens was our only guest. He is looking forward to his adventure in Argentina.

East Hartford Rotary will be concentrating our funding efforts heavily in the educational area this year. Glen Peterson will be overseeing $1000.00 that will be for books for grammar school literacy program. The Board also has decided to donate $500.00 to Literacy Volunteers — Connecticut River East, a group focused on adult literacy. Again this year, Rotary will be contributing to the School Partnership. The amount will be $12,000.00 this year!!!!

As a point of interest, the first meeting of East Hartford Rotary was called to order in the month of March, 1928 by President Roy Powers. In that same year four of our present members came upon this earth. They were Gerry Brady, Andy Andreo, Bob Popp & Rev. Roger Nicholson – all of whom have helped to make this a better place.

Carmen paid for a solid rendition of Happy Birthday by Moe Belanger. It was delivered with sincerity and respect for a 90^th. Tom Galvin paid for 22 years. No Early Leavers and I was watching. (Congrats to Us). George Schoen is looking for drivers on various days while GES is in progress and Roy and Peg Spiller will host a party to say farewell to our visiting GES team. The Region District Conference is May 6^th. If you missed this meeting and are going, check in with Pres. Dan. Raffle was drawn by Tom Galvin, with Nick Cecere walking away with a smile. If you have a problem with the password for the new web site contact Sue Klock...she will help you through it.

Make Ups: Don Cramer FL, Herb Tischofer (3) Naples, Chuck Clarke (3) Naples, Steve Jacoby (3) Springfield MA., New Britan CT, and Marbella Spain, Frank and Ceil Collins (2) Nashua (NE Pres. Elect Training Seminar) and District 7260 Centennial Celebration.

Our program was a review of the Fireside chats. Most groups agreed that better PR would be a key to membership and retention. Another idea was an exit interview would be helpful. There were too many good ideas for this format but an excellent conversation followed with great ideas coming forth from Jim Fallon, Sue Klock and Tom Westbrook. Jim volunteered to organize the exit interviews.

Please note that due to the Paul Harris Award Dinner there will be no meeting next Wednesday. Open bar 6:30 to 7:30 at the Gallery and dinner at 7:30.

Top of the Morning to you. The day was bright and brisk for March but the Piano Man treated us to Irish Sounds.

12:15 – Art Bradbury’s invocation asked for a return to simpler days and peace on earth. The meal was corn beef, cabbage, carrots and potatoes followed by ice cream.

Our GSE member was our guest. He will be representing EH in Argentina and is looking forward to meeting the members of their team. Scotty Howat is in room 3015 at Manchester. He can not receive calls but visits ok as long as not during mealtime. Mark Sirois, Police Chief was welcomed into Membership by President Dan and sponsored by George Stewart. He was given the card with the 4-way test and will be ready for a test on next Wednesday. He is a 1976 Graduate of EHHS and currently lives in Hillstown area. His wife is also from EH and has kept him for 23 years.

John Shemo is looking for sign ups for the Sock Hop. We need sponsors from outside the club. Let’s all get one sponsor.

Bill Saunders is having the first golf meeting prior to next Wednesday’s Rotary meeting

The team member’s fields of endeavor are Education, Tourism, Agronomy, Journalism and Medicine. Roy Spiller will be entertaining the agronomy counterpart up at Uconn and John Shemo will be shepherding our tourism guest around Hartford. We are looking for volunteers for the other three occupations.

Dan Dienst introduced our speaker today. Dan Matos, President and Mark Pilotter, VP of Matos Group which is developing Rentschler Field. Dan began to invest in real estate in 1984. At the time, he was a lawyer specializing in Real estate at Day, Berry and Howard. His two prominent clients were GE and UTC. He feels (as do most EH Rotarians) that United Technologies is one of the most outstanding corporate benefactors in their desire to help the local community. UTC had a vision, which matched the state, and local government, which grew into a plan to develop 1000 acres into a world class Research and Technology Park. With the park will be recreational fields and residential units. This will be developed around a lake. The removal of the runways will allow for scenic development. The Matos Group is proud to work with United Technologies on this project. It looks to all of us that they are doing a great job. The first phase is scheduled to be completed by 2007.

The membership was both few and slow to gather on a snow blowing, wind howling cold day. The sun was shinning and hopefully March will leave us like a lamb.

President Dan called us to order promptly at 12:15. The Pledge and the Four Way Test were preformed with our usual vigor and Mo Moshovos gave a stirring blessing. Our meal was served promptly. The fare was Swedish meatballs, rice, squash followed by strawberry shortcake. Good conversations were exchanged. The big question of the day was…What would we do tonight with no Uconn game?

Marcia Leclerc led a spirited Welcome Song for guest Art Aspostoc (Guest of Mo Moshovos) and Joe Marfucci (our speaker). We followed with a Happy Birthday for Neal Cunningham. I must point out that serenading was much improved with the return of the "Piano Man".

GSE still needs one more home for the exchange 4/23 to 4/30.

Alert - Correction: The actual date of this year Paul Harris Award dinner is March 30th. Cocktails at 6:30 PM and dinner at 7:30 PM.

Frank Collins informed us that Rotary has supplied housing for over 50,000 people so far in Indonesia after the tsunami. Scotty may be coming home this week. Herb Barall was taken to the hospital with heart problems. He is at Hartford Hospital and can be called (545-3349)

Dan Russell's announcement of "THE IRISH WASHWOMAN" was missed….SO take note that this is a great way to start the major Holiday Week of the year - St. Patrick Week! (a little green humor). SO plan for Sunday March 13 at 2 PM at the Community Cultural Center. (Free Admission presented by the East Hartford Fine Arts Commission.)

Make Ups: Walter Kupchunos (4 Venice FL), Chuck Clark (2 Naples, FL), Herb Tischofer (3 Venice FL), Bill Saunders (4 Cape Coral North FL), and Frank and Ceil Collins (Anaheim, CA Past Officers Reunion, Boston MA District 7930 Centennial celebration, Keynote Speaker, Cruise Ship Service Club Mtg.). A motion was made by Dan Larson that Walter be fined for submitting the weather report with each Make Up. No one voted against the motion.

The fines were light today with the exception of the Early Leavers, who were far too many. Those Early Leavers missed an extremely interesting presentation for Joe Marfucci. All of it new material since his previous visit several years ago.

Dan Deist introduced Joe as needing no intro. Joe brought us up to date on what was happening with the River Front Recapture. Of interest was the rowing, where our EH Highly diversified (there is only one Larson on it) team won the 8 man Head of the River. There are several events planned, which include a Get Hooked on fishing and Dragon Boat races. The new Boat House will host over 120 events this year. There will be two excursion boats including one with dinning and much more.

May the road rise up to meet you and the wind be ever at your back.
John O'Naughton

On a gray Wednesday, following a meek Nor`easter, President Dan rang the bell at 12:15. With the “Piano Man” out for the day, Art Bradbury was called upon to lead those gathered in the opening song. Bill Secord gave us the blessing in fine form.

Our meal was served promptly, beef stroganoff, twice-baked potato, carrot and green beans. As our meal progressed, John Shemo treated us to Lets Go to the Hop and an explanation. The Sock Hop planned for 6 PM on the 14^th of May is to be a fun fundraiser. Please let friends and families know they are invited. Sponsors are being sought...Pratt & Whitney and Coke are thought to be on board. The raised funds will be going to the new score board at McKenna Park. Roy Spiller will be contacting Members for their sponsorship. On a sad note, Ray McKenna, long time sports writer for the East Hartford Gazette, passed away early this week.

Committee listings were on the tables for 05/06. If you were not present ask at your next meeting.

Forms for attending our regional and RI in Chicago are available. George Schoen announced the GSE would be 4/23 to 4/30. Four out of 5 host homes were identified...someone (other than Bob W, Steve J, Art B and The Collin’s ) not in attendance needs to check in with George right away!

Our piano man’s absence was noted and our thoughts and prayers go out to Betty Hallquist.

Tom Westbrook led the Welcome song for Kate Carter, our guest and speaker. Roy Spiller serenaded Bill Leone while standing atop a nearby table. Total height must have been 10 feet or better. Happy Anniversary for Bill and we are sorry for the pains caused to Roy’s posterior. The last Fireside chat will be held at Roy’s home Thursday evening. All are invited whether you have been to one this year or not. Next week’s speaker is Joe Marfucci of Riverfront Recapture.

Paul Harris Dinner is scheduled for May 30^th at the Gallery in Glastonbury. Event schedule is 6:30 PM cocktails and 7:30 dinner with a cost of $35.00 per person. The Maffe Foundation is looking for Rotary to sponsor a table on April 30^th for an “Unveiling Dinner Dance.”

Glen Peterson introduced our speaker, Kate Carter, Principal of Great Path Magnet School. Presently they have 83 students from Hartford, East Hartford, Manchester, Glastonbury etal. Great Path is working hard to allow the students to achieved their highest potential. The students are selected through a lottery system. She was proud to announce that two East Hartford students are college levels Phi Beta Kappa. In addition, several of the Great Path students arrive at college with their freshman year complete. One of the founding fathers of this advanced approach was our own Jim Fallon. We enjoyed a video of young people learning and growing at Great Path Academy.

God Bless America was sung and we were on our way...until next Wednesday at Noon.

By golly, we found winter still hanging on this morning, with a wisp of the white stuff having been delivered overnight. A touch of the world’s wonderfully moving music emanated from Don’s keyboard, and it was with impulsive and excited energy that we became aware that Tom Galvin has returned!!!!!! How great to see you, Tom!!!

After a ‘spur of the moment’ invocation from Brian Hall, we sat to a filling menu of sliced pork-loin, carrots & string beans, potatoes, apples & mashed yams (or squash, or sweet potatoes, or something!) Dessert was a tough fruity Jello, only mildly reminiscent of an early luncheon dish prepared by Charlotte up at Bates College almost 58 years ago!!!

Guests today included old friend Rick Lawrence, a Manchester Rotarian, and Mark Sirois, East Hartford’s Chief of Police. Mark has been proposed for membership and, with the classification of Law Enforcement, will be ready for induction into our club shortly. Welcome Song leadership was provided with verve, spirit, and gusto (sounds like a law firm) by Andy Andreo. (He almost didn’t even wait for Don, such was his enthusiasm.)

Sgt at Arms today was none other than the long and sorely missed Tom Galvin. Tom expressed his appreciation for the cards, letters, thoughts and prayers which came his way from a lot of thoughtful people. And then he went to work! On opining that he’d never heard Tom sound so serious, George Stewart was immediately fined $1.00 in old-time-Tom-fettle. That’ll show him! Adding to the coffers were Todd Andrews and Dick McCarthy for anniversaries, as well as McCarthy, John McNaughton, and Dan Russell for birthdays. All were sung to in the best East Hartford Rotarian style! Also poorer after the meal were Brian Hall, on TV, a promotion and his daughter’s BD; Bob Brown, for confounding the medics with his carotid artery; and the Zircon-salesman George Agnelli & Jack Ghagan for some obvious misdeeds. Yep, it was pretty evident, Tom is back!!!

President Dan Firestone told of lots of happenings:

And the Raffle winner today was Roy Spiller.

Program today, introduced by our own Judge Herb Barall, was the great State of Connecticut’s Lt. Governor, Kevin Sullivan. Thrust into this roll by the resignation of you-know-who after 18 years in the Senate, most recently as Pres. Pro Tem, the Lt. Gov. told of his assignments, interests & activities in which he hopes for change, among them: elimination of pensions for convicted felons, more pay and better health benefits for Nat’l Guardsmen, & local property tax relief. Believing that too much of the tax burden in the state falls on low and medium income families, he bemoaned the elimination of taxes for folks with estates worth over $5 million, because that lost tax revenue would solve many of the state’s inequalities in town education expense problems. He appealed to citizens to hold back on being too critical of state government, rather, to step back and visualize what we want the state to be, to do, and work for positive programs, such as better mental health care and earlier intervention in substance abuse problems. A real privilege to have the Lt. Gov. here…Thanks, Herb!

Maker-uppers: McCarthy (4x’s) Sarasota Sunrise; Willett (3x’s) Cape Coral North; and

And with a reminder that Rotary was started 100 years ago today, (thanks, Stew) this scribe will say ‘adieu;’ it’s been nice we could be together!

“Spring Fever” wafted from Maestro Don Hallquist’s piano as East Hartford Rotarians assembled at Sunset Ridge today. A day that started with bright sunshine gradually clouded over and we once again got used to an up & down weather pattern. But where we were was warm and alive with Rotary spirit! Steve Jacoby offered an invocation, and we sat to a meal of chicken marsala, mashed sweet potatoes and rolls, followed by chocolate cake.

Guests were few…Don Pitkin, friend of many East Hartfordites, came with Dan Dienst; D.G Dick Seidman gave a brief report on the Providence Centennial party, and a wonderfully generous gift to the Rotary Foundation by a Rotarian who shall remain, for now, nameless. They and our speaker were serenaded by Stu Harris’s enthusiastic song leadership (as always, with Don, of course). Better watch it, Stu, we’re looking for a permanent leader! Sgt-at- Arms Jack Ghagan told of birthdays for Frank Collins and Charlotte Bradbury (husband Art paid) and the whole club sang with gusto. (Didn’t even know he was there!)

Past Pres. Neal Cunningham told wonderfully descriptive intimate details of his and Rosemary’s recent trip to Washington. Sounds as though they did everything but sleep in the Lincoln bedroom (come to think of it, he didn’t say they didn’t!)

Lucky Raffle winner today was Skip Guillemette, car salesman extraordinaire!

Our Program today, introduced by Frank Collins, featured Lillian Ortiz, Dean of Institu-tional Development at Manchester Community College. Her talk, with a Power Point presentation, centered on the MCC Foundation and described the many ways in which it has been enhanced, such as Endowment building and increased scholarships. The slides featured views of academia, the arts, culinary arts, a fine wine collection and stressed the many opportunities there are for donors to the school.

Maker-uppers included Frank & Ceil Collins at the Hartford Centennial Bell meeting, Plainville, and, just Frank in Evanston; Rotary Ski trippers: Leone, Spiller, Sayre, Amberg, Cramer, & Stewart; and the Russells in Singer Island, FL. Well done!

And next week, boys and girls, come early for your favorite seats to see and hear our Lt. Governor Kevin Sullivan!

Seems as though the day’s weather is always a factor in the writing of High Gear doesn’t it? This was a mild one for early February, but if the weatherman is even near accurate, it’ll turn cold again and bring more nasty stuff tonight and tomorrow. The Vermont ski group is up at the Golden Stage Inn, a lovely spot to help while away the hours with good friends. For those who’ve never been, there’re jigsaw puzzles, good food, good grog, and for those who actually ski, well-groomed trails! And then, of course, our ranks were also thinned by the absence of snowbirds who we’ll see again in the spring, all tanned and healthy looking.

After a welcoming Pledge, Prayer, and Performance of the 4-Way Test with President Dan Firestone, Krause Caterers served up garlic bread and veggi lasagna, along with Boston Creme Pie for a Patriots-pleasing dessert. How ‘bout them guys! Wow, Zounds!!!

With only one guest today, Sister Pat McKeon, Dan Larson not only did the intro but was called on to lead the Welcome Song, which he did with “Danny-Boy” enthusiasm & gusto. When Dan tried to auction off George Agnelli’s 2 tickets to the Lady Husky-B.C. game, however, there were no takers…imagine! Where was Roy Spiller when we needed him?

Sgt-at-Arms Jack Ghagan asked for silence for Sue Klock’s birthday, and Spurge Stokes’s 24^th anniversary, and we didn’t get asked to sing for either. For shame! We’re encouraged that Scotty Howat is continuing to feel stronger, cause they’re talking about the possibility of his going to Manchester Manor next week. Keep sending him your prayers.

· Hartford Rotary’s Bell Ringing Party was well attended by EH Rotarians, among them, Dan and his brother, Jim & Ruth Sheehan, Gil Wishart and Jay Stewart, Steve Jacoby (& Jackie?) Frank & Ceil Collins, and maybe some others (sorry if you were left out; that’s all were mentioned!)

· The District Conference will be held at the Providence Weston on May 6-8. Applications are available from Pres. Dan or on the Rotary website.

· And…though not a presidential announcement, Jim Sheehan won the raffle!

Then, from Larry Frazier, a short pitch for “Sharing Rotary”: Please fill out the Membership Survey found on each table, and return to Larry at the soonest. Conscientious follow-through will result in increasing our membership, one of President Dan’s goals.

Our Speaker today, Sister Pat McKeon, was brought to us by Danny Boy Larson. Sister Pat is a Sister of Mercy and Executive Director of Mercy Housing and Shelter Corporation in Hartford. Based on the premise that homeless people should be moved out of homelessness into Supportive Housing (rather than managing their needs as “homeless people”) Sister Pat’s MHSC has made a strategic commitment which is making a real difference in the Greater Hartford area. She stressed that the problem of homelessness appeared as a long-term phenomenon only in the last 25 years, and has been brought on by such things as federal budget reductions, foster care cutbacks, early prison releases, closure of mental hospitals, and the high cost of housing. Sister Pat’s presentation was a very positive one by an outstanding human being, one who is obviously living her faith in a real service to humanity. Well done, Sister Pat, and you, too, Dan, for bringing her to us!

Recent make-ups included Frank & Ceil at the PETS Leadership Training in Nashua, N. H.; Sue Klock on the Web visiting eClub One, Chuck Clarke and Herb Tischofer in Naples, Fla, and Don Cramer in Fort Myers and Sanibel/Captiva, Fla.

What a great club we belong to! …………. and wasn’t it great we could be together!…..Arthur

High Gear -- February 2, 2005

'twas a beautifully sunny, but still chilly, Groundhog Day and Punxsutawney Phil must certainly have seen his shadow this morning. Isn't it strange how 40 degrees can feel like a warm Spring day after more than 2 weeks in the deep freeze! Virtuoso Don Hallquist was truly the "Life of the Party" (honest, that was the name of the song book he was playing from). Wonderful melodic tunes; they made ya wanna dance and sing!

After a thoughtful blessing offered by George Agnelli, we sat to a repast of old favorite chicken pot pie, followed by a raisin-laden apple crisp. Those at our table thought it tasty. Also on each table were Committee Preference Forms handed out by next year's prexy Carol Krantz (very important that they be returned by Feb.16!) & Fireside Chat schedules. Steve Tamiso stressed the importance of RSVP-ing as well as calling the host if you need a different night. Let's try for 100% attendance at these worthwhile sessions this year.

President Dan Firestone tried hard but couldn't find any guests. Even so, Johnnie Mo was drafted to sing the Welcome Song to us. It's been a long time since we did it in Italian!
And then, wouldn't you know it, Larry Churchill's name came up a winner of the raffle; must be all that clean livin,' to have Rev. Ted Mosebach pull yer ticket!

Sgt-At-Arms George Agnelli told us Darlene Roberts had requested that all of us 68 and older sing to her, 'cause that was twice her age (c'mon, nobody's that young!). My gosh, at least 2/3 of the club stood up! Other celebrations were in order for Andy Andreo, recognized by his alma mater, Bryant College, and Gerry Brady, for an anniversary. Assuring us that he hasn't forgotten how, Roy Spiller auctioned off 2 tickets to Gino's gals' roundball game vs Vivian's lovelies on Thursday. Mary Martin was the lucky winner.

President Dan told of his cavorting with Hope at the Governor's mansion (on behalf of Interval House), and then read a thank you note from the E.H. Social Services Dept for social services rendered by our club (fitting, that!). Our august leader also told of our duty to cast a vote for our zone's nominee as R.I. President who will serve the world of Rotary in 2007-2008. Candidates were a gentleman from Maine and old friend Abe Gordon, from Bridgeport. Since many of the assembled know Abe from his attendance at E.H. functions, the vote was for Abe, unanimously!

And, deserving of special mention, was a request that we mark our calendars on May 14th for the sure-to-be -fun "Sock Hop" at the East Hartford Cultural Center, our springtime bonanza. To be chaired by our own Dick Clark: Johnny Shemo, that fact, alone, should insure its success.

The Program today was produced by that swingin' impresario of Terpsichorean delight, none other than our own Judge Herb Barall. With an act certain to win plaudits at Arthur Murray's or earn disbarment at Superior Court, Herb brought on three (count 'em) 3 ballet (oh, sorry, bellay) dancers. When they moved back the piano and carried out the tables, we knew something special was in the works. And sure enough, the shimmering gold discs shook and shimmied like a bowl of jelly on a frosty morning, the sword never fell off her head, the gauzy aqua veil finally did turn Dick LeMieux's hair a lovely shade of blue, and Don Hallquist was seen running for cover, lest his other ear fall victim to the power of the sword! Great fun, Herb, but how're you going to top that???

With one verse of America, the show was closed down for another week, and wasn't it nice we could be together?!!!!
Arthur

I said last week that it looked as if Winter was winning the Battle! This week confirms that observation - only 27 brave Rotarians managed to find the Ridge through an occasional wind driven snowflake!! President Dan got the attention of those in attendance at promptly 12:15 and led us in the Pledge and the Four Way Test. The Rev. Ted Mosebach gave the Invocation and asked that we all be enabled to do what we can to make Peace and to teach us to be be grateful and to share! We were treated to a generous meal of salad, chicken cacciatore, and chocolate ice cream with chocolate sauce. We were even offered seconds.

Following the lunch we were brought back to order. There were no guests, no Welcome Song, and only a few announcements.

1. The District is looking for host families for GSE participants from either Argentina or the Philippines while they are in East Hartford some time in April. Details will follow.

2. The Empire State Building will be lit up in blue and gold on February 23 to celebrate the 100th year of Rotary.

3. The Board voted to give $225 to the East Hartford Little League Rotary team. $1,000 to the East Hartford YMCA's annual fund drive, and $1,000 to Rotary's Tsunami Relief Fund. This will also credit our club with one Paul Harris Fellowship. The Board is also discussing the possibility of making a donation to the YMCA Capital Fund Drive.

4. President Dan is looking for someone to attend the Hartford Club's Centennial Celebration with him. Free Ticket! Call him if you are interested.

5. Dan read a thank you note from Chris Bessler, thanking us for helping him with his Eagle Scout Project.

John Mozzicato gave the Sgt. At Arms report. Anniversaries for Roy Spiller (28 Years) and Larry Hangland (5 years). John also fined himself for having another birthday, and Bob Wood Paid for a new Granddaughter and a new car. The Raffle was won by Gil Wishart. The following Make Ups have been received: Frank Collins (2) UN Breakfast NYC Rotary, and various UN Meetings; Herb Tischofer (2) Naples, Fla., and Steve Jacoby in South Windsor. Keep the Make Ups coming!

Prior to the Announcements we reconvened our Annual meeting which was held on December 16th to finish the scheduled reports which were cut short for our annual school holiday concert. Bill Leone gave a complete accounting of our scholarship accounts -the Regular and the Brewer Account. Dan Firestone gave our Club's Treasurer's report. The Club's financial status will be contained in the Secretary's report of the Annual Meeting. Dan mentioned that the Board is also working on updating the Club's Constitution and that it will be presented at a later date.

A cold day with the promise of some snow this afternoon makes one feel that winter is again winning the battle. Upon entering the Ridge one noticed an array of Rolling Rock beer bottles set out at each table and a wanted poster "Who's your Danny?" printed with the words to "Oh Danny Boy"! It seems as if the "Presiding President" Dan Larson was starting a wonderful precedent for those who are filling for the absent President. Nice touch, Dan! Hope others will keep this tradition alive. Dan was a little slow at the bell but got us started in the usual manner. A thoughtful invocation was given by Sue Klock, who expressed our collective gratefulness and quoted a Muslim prayer for peace-"most gracious are those who walk on Earth in humility, and when we address them, we say "PEACE." -This is our great hope.

The luncheon was Swedish meatballs, noodles, and Turnip(!) followed by a pistachio pudding tart. A strange combination, but OK.

Following the meal Dan had some difficulty gaining the respect of Glen Peterson who balked at introducing Pat Gately. Dan evened the score by having Glen lead the Welcome Song with help from Don Hallquist. Sgt. at Arms John Mozzicato came up with birthdays for Tom Westbrook and Steve Tamiso, and a 35th Rotary anniversary for Tom Westbrook. Dan Russell paid for his 2nd wedding anniversary to Betty - congratulations. The Raffle was won by our Sgt. at Arms - John Mozzicato. The report was followed by a rousing rendition of "Oh Danny Boy" with the ladies singing the first verse and the lads singing the second. Quite Well Done!!!!!

1. Dean reported that Scotty is improving but still in intensive care. Cards sent to his home would be appreciated.

2. Marcia plugged a Fundraiser at the Cultural Center on Feb. 5th to benefit the Senior Centers in town. Tickets are $15. The Show is "Love Letters", a WWII era reading. Information 291-7204.

3. John Shemo spoke of the May Sock Hop and Raffle. Dates would be May 14 or 21. Let him know if you have a preference. He is also thinking about a raffle for a 2005 Retro Mustang convertible.

4. Carmen announced that he saw Tom Galvin and that he is looking great and expects to rejoin us soon. Hang in there, Tom. We look forward to your return.

5. Next week will be a Club Assembly to continue our Annual meeting which was cut short by the Holiday Singers.

Dan (in Song) and Herb Barall introduced our speaker, Melody Curry, our 10th Assembly District Representative. Melody has been a major player in the Legislature and was recently recognized by the New England Board of Higher Education with an Excellence Award for Outstanding Individual Achievement for supporting schools and academic programs in Connecticut. Melody talked about the important issues facing the state. The death penalty issue will be a major debate. The Budget deficit and the construction of the next budget loom as quite difficult issues, and a lot of tough decisions will have to be made. It is very hard to project revenue sources and the budget is at best a crap shoot. Melody feels that the State must get its financial house in order and that this is not the year for new and expensive programs. The Healthcare issue is one that must be addressed and again, this is a difficult choice question. Ethics issues are high on the agenda and some changes are sure to be made. Melody talked frankly, and then opened the floor for questions. It was a great program.

Winter seems to be winning this week - cold, damp, and miserable! The Ridge was warm and filled with tunes by Don Hallquist at the trusty piano. A lot of activity in the side room as several Rotarians were collating the updated Roster Books. Make sure you pick one up! A great big thank-you goes to Larry Hangland who printed them and to Roy Spiller for following this project through to its conclusion. Pres. Dan was back at the podium in time to bring us together at 12:15. Mary Martin gave the invocation and asked us to care about those less fortunate than we! The luncheon was a stuffed chicken breast, mixed vegetables, rice, and bread pudding.

Following the meal, guests were introduced and Steve Bates led the Welcome Song a cappella - couldn't wait for Don! Sgt. at Arms John Mozzicato listed several anniversaries - Moe Belanger 36, Peter Klock 15, Dan Firestone 29, and Don Hallquist 40. Jack Sayre had a birthday and requested a moment of silence, and Bob Richmond paid for a new granddaughter. The Raffle was won by Dan Firestone.

1. Board Meeting Monday the 17th at Dan Larson's office. All are invited to attend.

2. Saratoga trip scheduled for Sunday, August 7th. Call Carol Krantz if interested.

3. Meeting of the Vocational Service Committee next Wednesday (1/19), 11 A.M. at the Ridge.

4. People are needed to host and co-host Fireside Chats. If able and interested call Steve Tamiso @568-6310.

5. Hartford Rotary Centennial Celebration is on Feb 5th at the Bond Ball Room. Cal Pres. Dan if interested.

The Speakers for today, Bob and Nancy Fitzgerald, were introduced by Jackie Danise. They talked about programs that were very necessary in helping today's youth in so many different ways. Nancy spoke about "Arts for All", a program in the Circle of Life group which has been organized by the Barall's. The Arts program is run after school, during vacations, and the summer break. This program helps fill the time for so many young people and teaches them many skills and lifetime values such as Sharing, Respect, and Responsibility. It is also fun!!! The Arts program is in need of funds, volunteers, and various supplies. Can you help? Bob talked about Cribbage for kids. He and others presently teach young people to play cribbage through this program. He is presently teaching cribbage to 6th graders at the Academy School. This game helps with math skills, Social Skills, logic, and provides a healthy alternative to TV and Video games. It too, is a fun game and provides a great intergenerational opportunity to communicate. These two individuals truly give of themselves and are a great example of the Rotary Motto "Service Above Self". Keep up the good work.

Welcome to a new Rotary Year! Winter was trying to make a comeback after several Springlike days - too early to tell if, indeed, it would succeed. Although it was cold and damp outside, it was warm with fellowship inside the Ridge. As 12:15 approached one could not find President Dan anywhere, but a close look behind the podium revealed that President Elect Carol was hiding there and just ready to ring the meeting to order, and it should be noted here - without the Rotary Medallion, the proper symbol of power and respect! She called upon past Pres. Neal to give the invocation. He asked that we all give "Service above self" in all that we do, to serve those less fortunate that ourselves, and to have a happy and healthy new year! A tasty meal of an open faced roast beef sandwich, carrots, and mashed potatoes followed by double chocolate cake was quickly served.

Following the meal Carol called for introductions and Riasa Filkoff, Rockville, and Pat Gately, an East Hartford Realtor were introduced and then serenaded by the club with the music by Don Hallquist and led by Tom Westbrook. Sgt. at Arms John Mozzicato gave a lengthy report featuring 41 years of Rotary
for George Stewart, 44 years of marriage for Bob and Debby Wood, birthdays for Nick Cecere and Jim Shay, Photos for Dave Amberg, Peter and Sue Klock, and several Red Sox Happy dollars. Some people also had trouble with today's date, anyone you know, John? Roy Spiller also had some trouble explaining his reasons for not growing his beard! You had to be there!!! The Raffle was won by Mary Martin.

The Speaker, Len Boyle, was unable to attend because of pressing duties at the State Capitol. So Acting Pres. Carol called upon others to carry the day. Glen Peterson read a letter from Heifer Project thanking us for our donation and support of the Magnet School Heifer Project. Glen is also looking for volunteers to read to students on Literacy Day, March 2nd. Contact him if you can give an hours time. Next Frank Collins talked about Rotary's part in helping out in the disaster relief in South Asia. He gave several options for individual or club support. Listed here are some of the ones recommended by Rotary International. The Rotary Foundation is setting up an opportunity to give through the ROTARY FOUNDATION/SOLIDARITY IN SOUTH ASIA. Checks may be mailed to The Rotary Foundation, P.O. Box 75133, Chicago, IL 60675-5133. Another opportunity is through Hunger Plus, Inc. , P.O. Box 337, Plainview, TX 79072. Finally, Shelter Box USA, an organization that provides, shelter, cooking equipment, and supplies for up to 10 people for 6 months. Website: www.shelterboxusa.org . A donation of $ 900 sends a complete box, but any donation will be packaged with others to complete the package. Mailing address Shelter Box USA, 8374 Market St. #203, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202. Its a worthy Cause!!!

Make ups were given to all those who rang the Bell, and to those who served the at the Holiday Fest - Steve Jacoby, Herb Barall, Staci Brazalovich, and Stu Harris. Thanks for your help.

See you next week - Bob Wood

Walking into the Memorial Clubhouse and turning right, into the large conference room, gave one a sudden fright. Looking at the measly spread of dishes on the tables gave cause for alarm. Gadzooks! Is this our buffet lunch? Happily, the next objects in view were wine and champagne glasses already topped off with - you guessed it - wine and champagne. And a wave of relief passed quickly over us all with the realization that the "buffet lunch" was actually a spread of appetizers set out to go with the afore-mentioned liquid refreshments. The noise level was noticeably raised in concert with the consumption of the aforementioned liquid refreshments. And we were off to a good start on the last meeting of 2004. When the noise level had reached the appropriate level, Pres. Dan ushered us in to our dining tables, calling upon George Stewart for the Invocation.

Good thing we had no speaker scheduled for today, because George took his own time and a speaker's time and then some. However, in fairness, the Blessing that George delivered was excellent, meaningful and most appropriate to the place of Rotary in the World (in spite of the fact that some Rotarians, veterans of the "eat your lunch asap" philosophy, had finished their lunch before George had completed the Blessing) . Another Amazing Feat of E. H. Rotary hard to beat anywhere.

If any of us who were a bit drowsy after a few sips of the fruit of the grape, Pres. Dan got EVERYONE'S attention with a powerful swipe at the Bell that woke up some off duty firemen at the new safety center.

Thus Pres. Dan moved us into the business of the day calling upon Larry Frazier to introduce our only guest, the venerable former member Fred Campbell, and then asked Larry to lead us in the Welcome Song, a strong rendition despite the somewhat reduced cast of characters (characters? characters? What does he mean by that?).

Special thanks to Sgt. Jack Ghagan for his fine compliments on the undersigned's identification of new grandfather(s), singular and/or plural, to which I now add congratulations to all the Club grandfathers (and grandmothers, too). I don't want to leave anyone out. That does it, Jack, so you can pass the Badge of Office on to the next Sergeant and rest on your laurels. And always remember that the High Gear editor has the last word. But before resting, Jack announced anniversaries for Bill Saunders (43) and Fred Campbell (54). They have very understanding wives! And lest we forget, Larry Churchill lost a century somewhere, dating his lunch card 1905. Or was he simply honoring the significance of that date to Rotary? Larry? Or is that the forgetfulness you were talking about?

Sad notes: George Schoen's father-in-law died this morning. Scotty Howatt is not doing well at the Hospital. Still, no calls or cards.

With experienced Rotary Chow Hounds getting to the Buffet table first, each one exhibiting their talents at bumping line buckers back where they belonged, it was quite a display of fancy foot and hipwork. Today we had only a few injuries and nothing more serious than a bloody nose. It was worth the the battle though, since the Kraus gang put on a very good buffet lunch. Many good comments today. And a good day for the Club to celebrate the good service Kraus gives us, coming to the Ridge each week as they do, and Pres. Dan presented each of the ladies with a Christmas remembrance.

Sgt at Arms Jack Ghagan nicked me for a late charge, but that was only the beginning. It seems that last week I was giving away grandchildren (rather generously, I thought, but possibly to the wrong grandfather). At least that's what everyone claimed when Sgt Jack came by with Jim Sheehan in tow and Dave Amberg a half a step behind. Wrong I was, they claimed, that all the applause should have been for Grampy Dave. So, I congratulated both of them figuring I couldn't be wrong that way. And with this Club and this Sergeant, how is an innocent party to know - - when these announcements are scratched out on a torn-off piece of fine linen table cloth made of cheap paper?

And speaking of Sergeants, Carol Krantz announced that Celia Collins was her choice to head the Sgt at Arms Committee next year. Yeah, Ceil - and remember the cheers next Rotary Year when the boos (not booze) begin to be heard.

Steve Jacoby reported a turn-out of over 300 for the Holiday Dance Festival with over 100 on the dance floor - led, of course, by Twinkletoes Herbie, accompanied by his bride and partner, Regina. Special thanks go to Dunkin" Donuts and Shaw's Market for their support.

Barall, J. introduced our guest speaker, Willa Westbrook, who spoke to us about "Crooks and Cads" - or - how to spot crooks from their handwriting. As a handwriting specialist, she reminded us of the necessity for extra care with our records and identification cards, plastic and otherwise. Shredders are no longer limited to office use. So keep your identity protected. There are a lot of crooks and cads out there. Interesting program but better projection facilities would have helped it a lot.

Addendum to High Gear, Wednesday, December 21, 2004

The following information is added:

Birthdays: Jackie Danise, Dan Larson and Doug Willett

Anniversary: Dan Firestone - 41 years married.

Guests: John Mozzicato - a grandson.

Guests today: Herb Barall introduced Alisa from the Rockville Club and Loretta Dienst was introduced by the person to whom she is married. And Herb then responded to Pres. Dan's call and led the Welcome Song.

Sgt at Arms Jack Ghagan, bemoaning a slow beginning for fines, came on strong with announcements. Anniversaries: Steve Tamiso, Jim Fallon, Bill Saunders, Carol Krantz. Birthdays: Kathy McCabe, Ted Mosebach and Carol Krantz. Grandson: Steve and Mary Tamiso. Photos: Herb B. for 3 photos and a nice article in the paper on Herb's bench activities as wellas his teaching dancing to kids at a dance studio. All in all, a good day for the Tax Man.

Today was the day set for the Annual Meeting. Because a program was also scheduled, the required election of officers took place. The meeting was then adjourned to January 26, 2005 so that the program for the day could begin.

Jim Fallon introduced the music staff of Emil Kopce (Supr. of Fine and Performing Arts - Don H's old job), Chris Mientus (Dir. of Chorale) and Candy Guastamachio (Dir. of Orchestral Studies). This year we had for our entertainment the chorale and instrumental performance of the combined sixth grade students of the all the E.H. grade schools. The group is made up of two sections, the Chorale Group and the Flutes and Fiddles group. They perform both singly and together. This select group gave a performance of Christmas Carols, interspersed with some jazzy versions of "Barbershop Blues", "Oh, You Beautiful Doll"and "Hello My Baby".

The Carols included "Jingle Bells", "Three Ships", "Deck the Halls" "Here we come a Wasseling" "Silent Night". etc. Most of the kids in these groups will keep on working on their musical talents and continue to perform through their high school years. Hopefully we will hear them again in the future.

Agnelli, Amberg, Andreo, Barall, Belanger, Bradbury, Brady, Brown, Cecere, Churchill, Clarke, Collins,C., Collins, F., Cramer, Cunningham, Danise, Dienst, Fallon, Firestone, Frazier, Ghagan, Guillemette, Hallquist, Klock, P., Klock, S., Krantz, Larson, Leclerc, Lemieux, Leone, Martin, McCabe, McCarthy, McNaughton, Mosebach, Mozzicato, Peterson, Piscatello, Richmond, Roberts, Roland, Russell, Saunders, Schoen, Secord, Sheehan, Shemo, Spiller, Stewart, Stokes, Tamiso, Tischofer, Watts, Westbrook, Willett, Wishart, Wood.

A motion was made, seconded and unanimously adopted to approve the minutes of the December 13, 2003 annual meeting.

The Nominating Committee reported that it had met in accordance with the by Bylaws and presented to the Club the following slate for 2005-2006:

Carol Krantz President

Dan Larson President-elect

Bill Saunders Secretary

Sue Klock Treasurer

Glen Peterson Director

Bill Secord Director

George Schoen Director

A motion was made, seconded and unanimously adopted that the nominations be closed and that the Secretary be directed to cast one ballot for the slate as presented by the Nominating Committee. So ordered.

There being a program scheduled for todays meeting, a motion was made, seconded and unanimously adopted to adjourn the meeting at this juncture to January 26, 2005.

There being no further business to be taken up at this time, Pres. Firestone called the meeting adjourned to January 26, 2005 at noon.

What a great night for the Rotary Holiday Party! Ninety-two Rotarians, spouses and friends journeyed to this Manchester restaurant for the annual yuletide bash. The weather was warm and pleasant, everyone was in a festive mood and the ambience was great at the Adam’s Mill Banquet Hall. Candle centerpieces adorned each table and the food was plentiful and excellent.

President Dan commenced the formal part of the evening by calling on Don Hallquist to lead in singing the welcome song. Art Bradbury gave the invocation and asked those assembled to remember those Rotarians not able to be with us this evening because of illness – Scotty Howat, Tom Galvin, and Bob Wood. He also suggested we keep Helen Davis’ daughter, Randy Davis Gagne, who is undergoing cancer treatment, in our prayers.

Jack Ghagan, representing the illustrious Sergeant-at-Arms Committee, reported that in keeping with the holiday spirit all customary fines would be suspended for the evening. He further noted Bev Saunders was celebrating a birthday. Congratulations Bev!

President Dan announced the selection of three Rotarians to receive the club sponsorship for Paul Harris Awards this year. They are: Dave Amberg, Sue Klock and Peter Klock.

He further announced that he was giving his wife, Hope, a Paul Harris Award.

Congratulations to each of you for receiving this high honor from Rotary. The actual awards ceremony will be held later in the year.

Special thanks go to Bob and Nancy Richmond who, as a committee of two, handled all details for the Holiday Party. It truly was a great event and we appreciate your time and efforts on our behalf.

The Annual Meeting is scheduled for next Wednesday, December 15, 2004 – for the purpose of electing officers and directors for the coming Rotary year, which commences on July 1, 2005.

Special thanks go to Frank & Ceil Collins for the beautiful table centerpieces.

The Rotary Club of Stuart, Florida, along with local Rotary Clubs, is sponsoring this Cookies4Heroes Program. The club asks anyone to identify Heroes among us such as Police Officers, Fireman, EMTs, Armed Services Personnel, etc. And arrange to send them a GiftPack of cookies. The cost for this GiftPack is $20.00 (plus S&H). In addition to providing a service to those Heroes in our lives, the designated local Rotary Club will receive $5.00 from each order. If interested, the Internet addresses is: Cookies4dough.com – then click on Cookies4Heroes – Local Community, or Cookies4Heroes – Armed Services.

That’s it for this edition of our weekly newsletter. May each of you have a joyous holiday season and a happy, healthy New Year.

Happy Holidays! Today was a real change of pace. There we were singing R-O-T-A-R-Y (No Piano from Don Hallquist, but he did start us off in song). And where were we singing? In the Training Room of the new Safety Complex of the East Hartford Police and Fire Departments now on School Street and running south from Tolland towards Burnside Avenue. The new main entrance is located on Tolland Street.

Pres. Dan called upon Gil Wishart who opened our meeting with a well-constructed prayer. Why "well-constructed"? Well, we had this new facility to see, consisting of an older building, to which the new construction made a sizeable increase in useable area on several floors. Thus Gil's invocation was most appropriate. Pres. Dan read a letter of thanks from Rotary District 6960 in Florida for the help which our Club and others around the Country gave in responding to the plight of the residents in this hurricanes-swept area of Florida.

Following a boxed lunch in the new Training Room (the lunch not necessarily being everyone's first choice but adequate for the occasion), Mayor Tim Larson introduced us to the respective Chiefs of the Police and Fire Departments, who spoke briefly to us on their particular uses of the new facility. A graphic display of the old and new was presented showing all three levels of the structure and the approximate area of 93,000 square feet. Thereafter, we broke up into groups of five or so and, with the help of police and fire personnel toured the respective new additions and became educated on the the facility and the advantages which the new space gives to them in their respective missions. Within the limits of the budget allowed for this new facility, they have arrived at state of the art status in the equipment and space needed to carry out their responsibilities. The ease of communications within each Department has been greatly improved in this multi-station facility. Not only have the day-to-day operations been made more efficient, but the handling of major emergencies has been considered and space and facilities have been allocated to deal with such an event. Both Chiefs made mention of how morale in both Departments has risen as the police officers and firemen have become used to working in the new building.

Announcements: Pres. Dan reminded us that there will be no noon meeting next week, the annual Holiday Dinner Meeting being scheduled for that evening at Adam's Mill in Manchester starting at 6:00 P.M. Each couple should bring one unwrapped toy to give to the needy children of younger ages.

Roy Spiller asked for volunteers to fill in for the Annual Bell Ringing. He needs people for 12/11/04 at 3 to 4 P.M. and 6 to 7 P.M.. He also needs help for several hours on 12/18/04. Call Roy if you can work any of these into your schedule.

Reminder: The Annual Meeting is scheduled at the Ridge on Wednesday, December 15, 2004 at 12:15 P.M.

What was really great about today's meeting was hearing and seeing Don Hallquist back and at the piano, the choice of melodies and the style of play sounding so bright on a day beginning to look pretty gloomy - a fine start for our annual Thanksgiving meeting.

Make-ups John McNaughton (Kaapa, HI {he should send a check with his card from there, especially when the make-up "card" looked suspiciously like a piece torn from the table top paper at his table today); Don Cramer also weighed in with two make-ups from Fort Myers, FL.

Introducing Guests today were: John McNaughton (his son, John, Jr.), Geoge Stewart (Priscilla ________, annual Thanksgiving guest of Steve and Jackie Jacoby), Herb Tischofer (former member Dick O'Brien) and John Shemo (Pierre Gerard, a 2001 GSE from Belgium).

Special Guests graced us today: Jay Stewart, Helen Davis, Lucille Bailey and Charlotte Bradbury - and these ladies proceeded to lead us in the Welcome Song (Ed.Note: With the ladies and with Don H. at the keys, a far better rendition than we have been saddled with during the last few weeks, sans Don.).

Other guests included P.D.G. Dick Seidman from the Hartford Club, who congratulated our Club on the fine support given to Frank and Celia Collins in the Rotary Foundation dinner honoring Frank last Saturday night at the Marriott in Windsor. He further remarked on the combined years of combined service given by Frank and Celia to Rotaryand ttheir many contributions to the work of Rotary. Neal Cunningham thanked all who helped, especially Mary Martin and Rosemary H. Cunningham for their excellent organizational work in putting together all the variables that go into making such an evening a success. P.P.D.G. Dick also complimented the Club upon it 2nd place showing of Foundation Giving among clubs in our category.

Herb Tischofer announced that next weeks meeting (December1, 2004) will be at the Safety Complex at the corner of Burnside Avenue and School Street. Parking may be found across School Street at the corner. Enter the building at the Police Department entrance.

Jim Watts reminded us that next Wednesday, the nominations and elections for Paul Harris fellows will be made. The meeting will be at the Veterans Memorial Clubhouse at 11:15 a.m., after which those present will repair to the Town Safety Complex for the noon meeting.

John Shemo "floated" an idea for a social even and fundraiser in May on a date TBA. John suggested a theme of the 40's, 50's, 60's, and 70's with your high school duds (let out, of course) and music of the times. Raising money could be through Admissions, Sponsorships, Auction of memorabilia and a Raffle (of Jack Sayre's donated car). AIM: to raise $15,000.00 to replace the E.H.H.S. Electronic Baseball Scoreboard.

Don Hallquist (or Don Cramer??) suggested an Aircraft Theme, especially if we had the affair in a P & W hangar. As well as some money, they might have some exhibits to support the theme. More suggestions requested by John S.

AND FINALLY, ART BRADBURY, on being asked to fill in for our "Meandering Clergy" and to deliver the Annual Thanksgiving message, a tradition started many years ago by Rev. Roger Nicholson, stepped up to the plate with a recollection of the early beginnings of our nation when the Pilgrim Fathers rebelled against the religious persecution by the English kings, their seeking to move to the New Colony by way of a lengthy lay-over in the Netherlands, and thence on to a treacherous two months voyage aboard the Mayflower (a small ship to be carrying 102 passengers, plus crew and very limited essentials of travel), and their landing in Cape Cod Bay, then around to Clarke's Island in Duxbury Bay and thence on December 21, 1620 in the shallop landing in Plymouth (or "Plimoth Plantations" as it was called then and is still called today at the replica of the Pilgrims early village just south of Plymouth).

ART recalled for us the terrible hardships the Pilgrims (they called themselves "Separatists") endured in their sea voyage and during the harsh months that followed their landing in Plymouth. They struggled against death, disease and deprivation, especially during that first winter. After their first growing season they gathered for a celebration after their first harvest, not a feast by our standards, but a feast nevertheless - probably some fish, maybe a lobster and some corn grown in the Indian manner. That first winter did cost them their first elected official on the death of Governor Carver. He was succeeded by Governor Bradford that first Spring. Their original destination was New York, for which they had a Patent of ownership. Because of their failure to reach New York, they believed their Patent to be invalid, and thus the Mayflower Compact was created, a Country of laws right from its earliest Pilgrim days.

ART'S interest in this theme for Thanksgiving derived from a recent visit to Plymouth and a walk-through of Mayflower II, docked within a hundred yards or so from "Plymouth Rock" (a stone of modest fame). This vessel, a close facsimile of the original Mayflower, was skippered by Captain Villius on its voyage from England about 1964 in duplication of the original ship's route in 1620.

Notice is hereby given that the annual meeting of Rotary Club of East Hartford, Inc. will be held on the 15th day of December 2004 at 12:15 pm at Veterans Memorial Clubhouse, Sunset Ridge Drive, East Hartford, Connecticut for the purpose of electing officers and directors for the Rotary year 2005-2006 and for such other purposes as may legally come before the meeting.

A grand group of Rotarians gathered at the Ridge to enjoy the fellowship of the club. After opening ceremonies, including a prayer of thanksgiving from Dave Amberg, the group enjoyed a warming fall dish of chicken pot pie, salad with balsamic vinaigrette dressing and, my favorite, chocolate cake.

We had a number of very special guests today. Hope Firestone joined us from the West Hartford club and offered us the opportunity to buy natural holiday wreaths from their club for $25. A list went around, but if you missed it, contact Hope to order a wreath. Dan and Hope also shared with us the welcome to the world of their first granddaughter, Rachael. We had the honor of celebrating the 80^th birthday of Jay Stewart. She was appreciative of our attendance at her party - and we sang pretty well! Representative Chris Stone, a former member, joined us too. We were also glad to welcome Gail Greaney back after 6 months of absence. Thank goodness the New Alliance Bank is settling down! Celerick Stephens, who is one of the GSE students going to Argentina in April for District 7890, thanked us for our support of his trip and assured us that he is very excited about the opportunity. We will hear from him again when he returns.

A surprising visitor was the Tin Man from the Wizard of Oz. On closer inspection, we discovered our own George Agnelli, still in costume from the kick-off party for the YMCA’s capitol campaign. Darlene Roberts announced that George was wearing the costume, as promised, in order collect $5 contributions to the club from the many Rotarians at the party. We also found out that Loretta Dienst is chairing the campaign with Frank Collins as honorary chair, and George Agnelli as head of the Gifts Division. He is looking for more volunteers to contact businesses for donations.

Don Hallquist is home and doing well. Send him cards! Dan Russell returned from Australia, where he visited 4 Rotary Clubs and was glad to see that the spirit of Rotary camaraderie and fun goes all the way around the world. Speaking of around the world, Carol Krantz shared pictures of her daughter in Iraq. She looked beautiful in her uniform standing in front of Sadam Hussein’s palace. A real reminder that we are all part of one small world. Mary Martin handed out brochures for the EH Holiday Fest Week-end and pointed out the dedication of the gazebo on Friday evening and the Dance Festival on Saturday evening that is co-sponsored by Rotary and the Circle of Life Arts for All program. Sue Klock reminded everyone to be kind to the High Gear Editor by submitting the names of guests and announcements in writing to the editor.

Sergeant of Arms, Larry Churchill, gladly collected contributions for George Agnelli’s costume as well as from George himself for the 75^th Anniversary of Anderson’s Jewelers and for coming in late. George Stewart paid well for Jay’s birthday, and Art Bradbury paid 2 days in advance for his birthday. We also gave a rousing version of the birthday song to one of our guest speakers, Beth Harvey, celebrating her Sweet Sixteen with us. Doug Ouellette was surprised to find George & Jay Stewart named in an article about Jessica Moore in an Anchorage Alaska newspaper. And there was some problem for Spurge Stokes about leaf collection in West Hartford. A good day for the kitty, part of which was won in the raffle by Carmen Piscatello.

Bob Brown – Manchester – 11/16 --Jack Ghagan and John Mozzicato – Laughlin NV – 11/3 and BHC Rotary – 11/4 --Frank and Ceil Collins – Williamstown MA – 11/16 and NYC, UN NGO Women Concerns Luncheon --Dan Russell – Australian Adventure at Burleigh Beach Club, Sydney Cove, Cairns sunrise & North Burleigh – Thanks for the banners, Dan.

Dec 1 – Rotary meeting - new safety complex (police and fire station) on Burnside Ave.
Dec 3 – Dedication of the Rotary Gazebo – Town Green, 6 PM
Dec 8 – Holiday Party, Adams Mill Restaurant, $35, see Bob Woods
Feb 5 – Hartford Centennial Bell Ball - $75, see Dan Firestone
Feb 8 – 10 – Ski Trip

Steve Jacoby introduced members of the EH High School Interact Club, Midge Lenihan, Advisor, Laura Foran, President, and Beth Harvey, Vice-President. Steve congratulated EH for sponsoring one of the 22 clubs in our District. He said that there are Interact Clubs in 110 countries, providing 200,000 young people with the opportunity to learn about service above self.

Laura told us about her experiences at the week long World Affairs Seminar sponsored by RYLA in Whitewater, Wisconsin. She now has friends from around the world and a partner from Thomaston, CT, with whom she is raising money to fund a children’s wing of a hospital in Haiti. To do this, they are making and selling Holiday Wreaths for $10 each. Contact Steve this week to order yours.

Beth talked about some of the other activities of the club including working for Rebuild EH, having a successful bake sale, and participating in the Giving Tree with the Salvation Army. She also showed off her Interact T-shirt with the motto, “Service is the rent we pay for being human beings on this earth.”

Next week will be a Wine and Cheese party at the Ridge with a special Thanksgiving message from Art Bradbury.

A brisk, bright day greeted EH Rotarians back to Sunset Ridge for our meeting. President Dan led the welcomes, especially to Carmen Piscatello who came right back to work as head of the raffle for the day. Guests today included Cynthia Reik, Jim’s wife, and her walking buddy, Marilyn Pet, and our speaker, Jennifer Parker. In the absence of music man, Don Hallquist, Tom Westbrook led the Welcome Song, and Ted Mosebach gave thanks and asked that we live the 4-Way Test. Once again, all together now, the third test is, Will it build goodwill and better friendships?

I’m sorry to say that I did forget something from last week, the Make-up list. The secretary gave you all credit, but it’s important that we are reminded that making up is fun to do (isn’t that a song?).

Frank & Ceil Collins – Wayne NJ – Reception for President Estess, Rochester NY – Eastern Cities Dinner, Hartford, CT – Hartford 25 Year Club, W. Springfield, MA – E Club Charter Night, New York City – Rotary UN Day, Fairfield, CT – Rotary Club

Steve Jacoby – Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic - Rotary Foundation Conference, Glastonbury CT – 10/27

Lunch today was a delicious dish of Beef Bourguignonne, steamed celery and carrots, white rice with wheat berries and wild rice, and bread pudding for dessert. Thanks again to Krause for their good food and service.

Sergeant of Arms Larry Churchill reported a slow day in the donation bucket with only a birthday for Larry Frazier, an anniversary for Mary Martin, and something about no green card for Carol? He had thought of a scheme to get us all to pay a buck as a welcome back gift, but was going to abandon the idea until Jim Fallon encouraged my table to anti-up. When we did, so did many others – brought in an extra $50. Thanks to all for these contributions.

-Ribbon Cutting for the new gazebo on Friday, Dec. 3 at 6pm at the EH Town Green.

-Salvation Army Bell ringing sign-up sheets for the first three week-ends in December available through Roy Spiller.

-Don Hallquist is in Hartford Hospital awaiting an artery cleaning. I hope he has good music to play during the operation. I understand that helps both patient and doctor.

-President Dan has nomination forms for any past president who would make a good District Governor.

-Hartford Rotary club will be having a celebration in honor of the RI Centennial Bell visit at the Bond Hotel in Hartford on February 5, 2005, $75per person. See President Dan for tickets. The Hartford Club was selected to have the bell because it was one of the first 100 Rotary Clubs established.

-**Correction** - this writer mistakenly announced that dues would be going up by $400 when in fact it is only by $4.00. President Dan is refusing to accept resignations based on my mistake.

-Board of Director’s meeting Monday, Nov. 15 at the EH CCC. All members welcome.

-President Dan has free, complimentary, no cost tickets to the Rockville Rotary Holiday Craft Fair on 11/27.

-Bill Saunders talked with Roger Nicholson, who just returned from a Heifer Project meeting, saying that he and Anne are doing well and that he has settled on a Rotary Club to join in the Pittsburgh area. But it seems they are having trouble finding a good church!

-Bob Richmond is circulating the list for our Holiday Party on 12/8/04. Cost is either $30 or $35 – I couldn’t catch the conclusion of the debate.

-Next week, at the Ridge, speaker Steve Jacoby will be talking about the Interact Club.

Jim Reik introduced Jennifer Parker from the Wadsworth Athenaeum, a Cornell Graduate, and daughter and granddaughter of Rotarians. She hadn’t expected to speak to us today but her boss, Nicole Elkon, was indisposed Jennifer may have only been at this job since August but she certainly knows a lot about her establishment. From the history of the artists and exhibits to the construction of the 4 buildings, to the storage of the artwork, the special programs, the plans for expansion, and the parking situation, she knew it all. New Director Willard Holmes has decided to change some of the expansion plans previously announced for the Athenaeum. They will not close for the next 2 years, instead they will buy the Hartford Times building, move in there while the 4 existing buildings are restored to their original condition. Much of their permanent collection will travel during this time, keeping it safe and providing income for the museum. Programming will continue and more parking will be built on Front Street. For now, people are encouraged to park in the Morgan Street lot and take the free “Art Bus” to the Athenaeum. Several Rotarians are members of the Athenaeum and testified that it is a good deal. Join the Wadsworth and enjoy art, culture, music, films, book talks, docent tours and much, much more.

The gathering at S. Congregational Church was somewhat quieter then usual. Our favorite music man, Don Hallquist was not there to welcome our arrival. Fortunately, the west wind didn't blow in Mary Poppins, nor did I see Pooh on this Blustery Day, but there was a good group of EH Rotarians - enough to occupy each table. I noticed an avoidance of political conversation; instead there was lots of talk about house renovations and car repair stories. I wonder what that was about!

With the ringing of the bell, there was a low, slow start to the Rotary song - but the group gradually gained momentum in order to complete a rousing version of our opening ritual. We also stumbled a bit over the 3rd statement in the Four Way Test. Let's all try to remember that the 3rd question is "Will it build goodwill and better friendships?" Gil Wishart offered a prayer of gratitude. The lunch was a delicious plate of baked stuffed chicken, broccoli au gratin, candied sweet potato and apple crisp for desert.

President Dan called the meeting to order at 11:40 in order to have time for the many announcements. Here we go:
" Next week we meet at home on the Ridge, with speaker Nicole Elkon, Director of External Affairs, Wadsworth Atheneum.
" Carmen Piscatello is home again and doing better, Don Hallquist's surgery was postponed because he is not feeling well.
" We received a thank you note for our $500 contribution to the Cambodian Project.
" If any past president would like to be nominated for District Governor see President Dan for application forms. He also has registration forms for the conference celebration in Chicago next summer.
" The RI Council on Legislation has voted to increase our annual dues by $400 per person over a 4 yr period. This is warning that our EH dues will have to increase to meet this new level.
" Jim Watts announced that it is time to nominate candidates for the Paul Harris Awards. The group will meet at the Ridge on Dec. 1 at 10:30 am to review the applications.
" Carol Krantz announced problems with the fruit sale. Basically, we would be unable to get our order in on time for a before Christmas delivery. After discussion and suggestions, a motion was presented and passed to have the Board propose an alternative fund-raising project.
" Bob Richmond announced that the Holiday Party would be on Dec. 8. Details to follow.
" Bob is also announced that our Nominating Committee is now accepting nominations for our Board of Directors. See him or Neil Cunningham for applications.
" This week is the deadline to buy tickets to the Annual Foundation Dinner on Saturday, November 20, honoring Frank and Ceil Collins. See Neil immediately for tickets.
" Art Bradbury is appearing in the production of "Jekyll and Hyde" at the Little Theater of Manchester the first 3 weekends in November.
" Glen Peterson is getting ideas for this year's Literacy Initiative. He asked how many people might be interested in reading to students and talking about the importance of reading in one's life. There was enough interest to encourage Glen to plan this for Read Across America Day in early March.
" Steve Jacoby presented the club with a banner from Rudyard Margarita Monta's Bazil of District 4060 in the Dominican Republic where he attended a District Conference on the RI Foundation.
" Notify Sue Klock if you are having any trouble with High Gear.
" At a special meeting of the Board it was decided to sponsor a representative to the GSE exchange team to Argentina. He is a young man from Middletown who works in EH at Pratt and Whitney.

Our 2 guests were Craig Williams from E. Hampton in Construction Products, and Bob Wood's guest, Liwu Guo, one of the teacher's from China who is here for 6 months teaching Chinese to American students. The Welcome Song was ably lead by Tom Westbrook. Larry Churchill was the Sergeant at Arms and creatively charged each person a dollar if your candidate lost, and a dollar to celebrate if your candidate won. Jim Sheehan paid for a birthday and Rotary anniversary. Ceil Collins also paid for an anniversary. After a request from Spurge for no kissing, Mary Martin, who kissed no one, won the Raffle.

Our speaker today was our own Frank Collins. His topic was to answer the oft asked question, "What do you do at the United Nations?" He explained that he is the Senior Representative and has 4 assistants in New York City, and other representatives in Geneva, France, Rome, Asia and Africa. RI is one of over 2000 NGOs (non-governmental organizations) represented at the UN. RI has "consultive status" which means we are one of the few organizations that can present "white" or opinion papers to the agencies of the UN. One of Frank's jobs has been to organize the Rotary International day at the United Nations, which will be this week-end. With 1,000 registrants planning to attend the adult and young person sessions, it sounds like an exciting week-end in New York! The main part of Frank's job is to decide which other organizations RI will work with and on what projects. Frank is using the priorities of International President Glen as his guideline. The first priority, the Family of Rotary is an internal project and does not impact the UN. The second, Literacy, is well organized and we have representatives on the international task force. Health Concerns is the third priority and presents Frank with some decisions. We will continue to work with the WHO, CDC, and UNICEF on the polio eradication project. He will meet with organizations who have specific geographical health concerns to explain that local Rotary clubs may chose to participate in their initiatives once they have presented the ideas to the local groups. Frank will help connect local RI groups with the organizations. For example, RI is sponsoring a table at the Women's Concerns Worldwide luncheon and has invited the woman Ambassador from Thailand as their guest. He will also try to find clubs in the 22 countries that UNICEF has targeted for pure water projects.

I hope I got it all!
Pat Porteous

Don Hallquist played show tunes as well as “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” to greet the assembled members on this beautiful autumn afternoon. Much of the pre-meeting and lunch discussion focused on the beloved Red Sox. We were served a lovely lunch of prime rib, roasted potatoes, and steamed zucchini with ice cream cake for dessert.

East Hartford High’s Thanksgiving football game against Manchester will be played at Rentschler Field. Renting the field is expensive and they are selling program advertisements to defray the costs. Call the high school, 622-5200, if interested.

Mike Livingston concert will be held at the cultural center on Sat, Oct 30 @ 8:00. Proceeds to support “Focus on Recovery.” Call Pat Porteous for details.

Nominations for Paul Harris Awards are available. Copies are also on the web site.

Mr. Larson took the floor and complained (at great length) about possible irregularities in a recent raffle. Photo evidence was provided and the attorney general’s office may be contacted.

Dan Russell sent a letter from Australia. He recently made up a meeting on a yacht in Sydney Harbor.

CPTV’s annual wine auction will be held on Oct. 31, Halloween. They are desperate for volunteers. If interested please call David Cruthers 275-7280.

Others paid for pictures in the paper, Rotary anniversaries, coming late, leaving early

It was with painful irony that Dan Larson, who had vociferously complained about a recent raffle drawing, won himself.

Pat Porteous introduced Kim Beauregard, the directory of Inter-Community Mental Health. She gave members an overview of the program. The non-profit agency is the local mental health authority for the six towns of East Hartford, Glastonbury, Wethersfield, Newington, Rocky Hill, and Marlborough. The agency helps people with mental and behavioral health issues live in the community. They provide in-patient and out-patient services, trauma services, and crisis programs. Much of their work relates to rehabilitation programs. As a non-profit agency they must cope with financial issues in the face of ever growing state and federal mandates as well as ever more people seeking out behavioral health services. They are trying to work with people in the community to identify and address behavioral health needs with may relate to youth issues, crises, or other mental health issues.

Maybe it was the artistic atmosphere, but from the very beginning President Dan almost lost control of the meeting. Closely grouped tables helped simulate a cabaret environment, as months of normal seating patterns were disrupted and patrons mixed at random. The cabaret buffet offered a choice of picnic lunches—turkey, roast beef, or vegetarian sandwich; a salad, a pear, and an oversized chocolate chip cookie.

President Dan thanked Reggie and Herb Barall for letting Rotary use their space at “Circle of Life: Arts for All” for our meeting this week and for providing us with our luncheon program.

John Shemo, through his able messenger Todd Andrews, announced that the ways and means committee meeting scheduled for October 27 has been cancelled and will be re-scheduled. Bill Saunders leaped from his chair, wily leader that he is, and announced that the golf committee would claim that abandoned spot for its own gathering at 11:30 at South Congregational Church next week.

We will meet the next two weeks at South Congregational Church and return to the Ridge on November 10.

Our Rotary zone has nominated Michael K. McGovern from Maine for a director’s spot on RI’s board of directors for 2006-2008.

The executive board voted to: 1) donate $500 to the Rotary Vietnam Physical Rehabilitation Center in Cambodia (several weeks ago Inge Dunham from Lakeville told us about its work), 2) give $500 to the Rotary International Solar Cooker Project, 3) put an ad in the East Hartford Women’s Club annual dinner booklet.

November 6 is Rotary U.N. Day. (President Dan has registration forms; the deadline is October 23.)

The Town of East Hartford is asking for volunteers to receive emergency disaster training. The training session is scheduled for Wednesday, November 3.

Carol Krantz announced that we will be having a citrus sale again this year—Peter Klock is getting oranges and grapefruit from Texas. The fruit will be delivered the second Saturday in December.

Our speaker next week will be the new director of the Intercommunity Mental Health Group, Kim Beauregard.

The Rotary Gazebo, newly installed in the center green, will be dedicated during the annual Holiday Fest on the first Friday night in December. Jack Ghagan and Leo Christmas are presently finishing up the electrical work.

Doug Willett announced that former mayor Bob McNulty is in Hartford Hospital with congestive heart failure.

Carol Krantz pulled the winning raffle ticket for Dick McCarthy—again! Sergeant-at-Arms Bill Leone claimed he was kind to all of us today because of the closeness of the dining quarters, but he failed to fine himself for his dereliction of duty. Two honest souls volunteered their fines: Frank Collins for his new Cadillac STS (he offered everyone a ride around the block—but no further); and Larry Hangland for his 40^th wedding anniversary.

Program: Our host and hostess, Herb and Reggie Barall, introduced two of the guest dancers for today’s program—Ester Cortez, a student at East Hartford High School, and her partner Michael. They both help Reggie teach dance to children on Saturday mornings. Herb admitted that Reggie really runs their studio—and him as well. And she certainly does a better job than Herb does with technology. After several false starts from the control room, Ester and Michael performed intricate Latin steps with high energy, a full body flip—and no loss of breath!

Reggie then introduced professional cabaret dance performer George Kaminski and his two charming partners, Barbara Barry and Nancy Jewett—both of whom wore competition ballroom dancing dress. Their selections included romantic bolero, tango, American style rumba, and the foxtrot. But the smoothest dancer of all was Reggie herself, resplendent in a flowing dress of various shades of lavender. She really lucked out because her normal partner Herb had faked an automobile accident and a bruised hip to keep from having to embarrass himself in front of us all. The program ended with Reggie telling us about some of the work her dancers do, such as helping high school students prepare for the Seniors Ball and their own senior ball.

Make-ups: Steve Jacoby and George Schoen at the Rotary Leadership Institute in Chicopee. Frank Collins at the U.N.; the Rotary Leadership Institute in Poughkeepsie; the U.N. representative meeting in Evanston, Illinois; as a speaker at the East Hampton, CT, Rotary Club; as a speaker at the Avon, CT, Rotary Club; at the Zone 31/32 Institute in Cambridge, MD; and as a speaker at the Springfield, MA, Rotary Club. Ceil Collins at the Rotary Leadership Annual Meeting at Poughkeepsie; at the East Hampton, CT, Rotary Club; at the Zone 31/32 Institute in Cambridge, MD; and at the Springfield, MA, Rotary Club.

Our Rotary Bell, having spent a peaceful week at church, rang out once again for our gathering at South Congregational. George Stewart led us in thanks and asked for blessings upon our Boy Scout guest speaker and those Scouts who do good in this world and grow up to become contributing members of Rotary. The buffet, one slow table at a time, consisted of stuffed chicken (Cornish game hen, perhaps), ziti with huge meatballs, pasta salad, green salad, rolls and butter, and fruit-filled jello.

Art Bradbury welcomed our speaker Will Sime and his father Jim. High-kicking Dick LeMieux led the Welcome Song to the tune of what at first sounded suspiciously like the Marseillaise, but what must have been just the faulty fingers of Don Hallquist. Sergeant-at-arms Bill Leone complained about the lack of birthdays, but reaped plentifully in anniversary fines: Bill Flynn, 26 years; Larry Frazier, 37 years; Jim Reik, 12 years; John Shemo, 11 years (second time around); and Glenn Peterson, 1 year (after serving a number of Rotary years in Connecticut’s Northeast Kingdom). Dan Larson paid a fine for something, but Lord knows what—it could have been anything. Mary Martin paid for her spouse’s having walked around on television wearing a Viking helmet and telling people to stay out of their gutters. Carmen Piscatello—with a warm round of applause for his healthy return!—blundered badly and allowed Bill Leone to pull his own number for the raffle. (Bill returned the money to the Sergeant-at-arms fund, secretly he thought—but no good deed goes unrecorded!)

Will Sime, assisted by master projectionist Jim Sime, recounted his adventures in restoring and enhancing the garden, landscaping, and picnicking facilities in the courtyard of the East Hartford Middle School. Will took on this project as part of his Eagle Scout requirements. The East Hartford Rotary, the East Hartford Women’s Club, the middle school PTO, and Discount Trophy were among the groups and businesses that provided Will with the funds and materials he needed for the project. A total of $620 dollars were donated along with plants and lumber, some of which was sturdy South American walnut. Much of the landscaping work had to be done during Will’s April vacation. The building of picnic tables took place in the Sime’s basement and garage. The garden now includes displays of the official state flowers of each of the New England states—including the endangered trailing arbutus of Massachusetts and mountain laurel of Connecticut (which is also on the endangered list—who smuggled in that beautiful laurel plant?) This project—with all its labor—has added significantly to the atmosphere and educational environment at the middle school.

Maestro Don Hallquist, wearing a snobbish golfing polo, bounced show tunes off the walls of South Congregational Church’s multi-purpose room, as we once more enjoyed their hospitality. The peripatetic bell brought us all to our feet for song and prayer and the Rotary Four-way Test. The substitute kitchen produced perfectly prepared al dente ziti with a tangy tomato sauce laced with sausage, a garden salad, and a variety of crunchy cookies. A cheery Glen Peterson led the Welcome Song for our only guest (and his boss), Superintendent of Schools Marion Martinez.

A cloud of doom, however, appeared over our flock with the realization that George Agnelli had assumed the mantle of Sergeant-at-Arts from Darlene Roberts. But only one major confrontation occurred—when Doug Willett insisted upon his rights to Freedom of the Press as last month’s High Gear editor. The two cousins reached a compromise when our own “W” agreed to pay a fine for vulgarity—but not for defamation of the clergy. Other fines included: Dean Rolland paid 60 happy dollars for 60 happy years of married life; Mo Belanger paid for his 73^rd birthday and for no singing by the club; John Mozzicato paid for Jack Gagnon’s 55^th wedding anniversary and trumped Mo by paying for the club to sing to him anyway; Jack Gagnon paid a happy dollar for Carmen Piscatello’s coming home from the hospital; Don Hallquist paid for a birthday in September and for no singing (he gets tired getting up and down every week); Pat Porteous paid for her birthday and for a beautifully off-key version of Happy Birthday; Dick McCarthy paid $10 for a new car he claims he bought for his wife; Gerry Brady paid for using his cell phone during our solemn ceremonies; and Bill Flynn paid for the wonderful party at Neil and Rosemary Cunningham’s home last weekend.

Make-ups: Dan Russell at Rockville, Andy Andreo at Westerly and Las Vegas, Skip Guillemette at Manchester.

Herb Barall introduced our speaker for the day, Superintendent of Schools Marion Martinez. She spoke about the strategic planning process the school system has gone through over the past six months. The process included a “bottom-up” approach to developing a plan and included members of the public in the planning process so that the results would be supported the whole East Hartford community. Part of the planning committee’s discussion included the role of moral leadership and the importance of stewardship. Other initiatives that Dr. Martinez is proud of include the implementation of full-day kindergarten for all and the hiring of a literacy coordinator for grades K-8. The rumor is that “fly tying” is being proposed as a course next year for eighth grade boys to keep them occupied. Dr. Martinez concluded her talk with her statement of belief that the scores of East Hartford students on such tests as the CMTs can be raised—by as much as the double digit figures she observed during her tenure as assistant superintendent in Clinton.

The meeting ended with the unconscionable badgering of the gracious superintendent by such erstwhile gentlemen as George Stewart, Art Bradbury, Bill Flynn, George Agnelli, and others.

Our Rotary Meeting day started off overcast with remnants of Hurricane Jeanne passing through. Not bad but enough to put a damper on the post meeting golf game. The crowd was slow to gather as noted by the tune “It’s A Small World After All” wafting through the hall. Our piano player remains oh so clever and creative – he is aging well! President Dan expressed his thanks for surviving his recent shoulder operation. Tom Westbrook led a spirited Welcome Song for our two guests, Reid Fraser, New Alliance Bank, and Muhammad Ansari, from the Open Hearth.

Darlene Roberts completed her first turn as Sergeant At Arms today. She has shown a lot of promise in this role and with a little more coaching from Carmen, she should take her place alongside such notable “pain in the butts” SAA’s as Dr. Tom, Dan Larson, and Bill Flynn. Peter Klock had it all going on today, getting to celebrate his birthday while his wife, the long suffering Susan, paid the fine. Hey, you got to use that M.I.T. PhD once in a while.

Several announcements today. President Dan reminded one and all about Rotary Day at the Big East this Sunday and tried to read Thank You notes from the American Lung Association and the Intercommunity Mental Health Group for recent Rotary donations. He also made note of the East Hartford School Business Partnership newsletter which featured E.H. Rotary prominently in its recent issue.

Neal Cunningham is still looking for a few more volunteers for the October 9^th Water Station at the Greater Hartford Marathon. He also announced that the First District Democrats will be honoring Moe Belanger for his community service at its October 17^th annual dinner. See Neal for tickets.

Sue Klock reminded everyone about Rotary Day at the United Nations on November 6^th. See EHRotary.org for registration forms. There will be a Membership Committee Meeting on October 5^th at 7:30 a.m. at the East Hartford Golf Course Restaurant.

Our program today was on the Open Hearth, a shelter and substance abuse program operating on Sheldon Street in Hartford since 1884. Adult men are able to come here for a structured program designed to allow them to reenter the community as productive, successful citizens. The program stresses old fashioned values of hard work and personal responsibility. The Open Hearth has 25 employees and serves up to 75 men in the program with another 25 beds available for overnight shelter. It has a $1.7 million dollar budget and relies on state, federal and private grants and donations. It has many success stories and even sponsors an alumni association. It is perhaps best known for its sale of fire wood to local homeowners. Thanks, Jackie, for another interesting and worthwhile program. Next week we’ll hear from the Superintendent of Schools.

Which brings this scribe to the end of my tenure as High Gear editor. So let me indulge in a few personal notes. One, I am looking for a garage to park a car for the months of November – March. Anyone aware of the availability of same, please contact me. Second, my wife tells me I’ve been picking on Ruthie for years for her blind devotion to the hapless Red Sox, so I want to apologize. But I have to ask one thing before I do – hey, Ruthie, who’s your daddies? Finally, my thanks for being part of the East Hartford Rotary family. There is no greater bunch of people, even if some of you are Republicans. Go, Huskies, SH-TT on PITT! WDOUGW

South Congregational Church, our home away from home for the next few weeks, was the location today for our annual District Governor's Visit. The gathering was on the small side and somewhat quiet and decorous, due no doubt to the lack of piano, badges, and bell. Or, perhaps, the setting in a church hall; the presence of the Governor; or even a hangover from the Monday Golf Tournament contributed to the quietude. Dan Larson, performing very much against type, delivered a thoughtful and sober grace before our meal.

Our guests, in addition to the Governor, were ADG Dick Borden from Manchester, and, appropriately attired in sackcloth and ashes after her beloved Bosox's disastrous weekend in the Bronx, Ruthie Sheehan. Sergeant At Arms Darlene Roberts noted fines for Dan Russell and Dean Roland, both celebrating 31 years in Rotary. Todd Andrews paid for a 14th wedding anniversary and George Schoen paid for a birthday. Lack of pins, coats, and couth made up the balance of today's take.

President Dan reminded the Club of Rotary Day at the Big E on October 3. He has discount tickets available. The Empress thanked her volunteers for representing the Club on Rebuild Together Day, last Saturday, held in monsoon rains. The Rotary Good Guys included Dave Amberg, Dan Dienst, Jack Ghagan, Peter Klock, Sue Klock, Marcia Leclerc, Mary Martin, Glen Peterson, Darlene Roberts, George Schoen, and Gil Wishart. Neal Cunningham is still looking for a few more volunteers for the Greater Hartford Marathon Water Station on October 9th.

Bill Saunders, looking ten years younger now that the pressure is off, reported on our very successful fund-raiser on Monday. After much pleading, begging, and drawing of blood, the Club came through to the tune of 136 golfers, 90-100 sponsors, over $7700 in raffle prizes, and $850 in silent auction donations. A precise accounting is pending late returns. Great job, Bill and the Golf Committee. President Dan is postponing plans for the raffle.

District Governor Dick Seidman is no stranger to our group and his presentation this day was relaxed and avuncular. He praised East Hartford both for its contributions to the leadership of the District and our ability to do good work and have fun at the same time. He summarized the overall purpose of Club Administration as "keeping members, getting new members, raising monies for the Rotary Foundation and local projects, doing the good work of Rotary, and having fun." He noted that East Hartford excels in all of these.

He also noted some important up coming dates: October 3, Rotary Day at Big E; November 6th, Rotary Day at the United Nations; November 20th, Rotary Foundation Dinner, honoring Frank & Ceil Collins, at the Windsor Marriott; February 5th, Rotary Centennial Celebration at the Bond Hotel Ballroom; May 6-8, District Convention in Providence; June 18-21, Rotary International Convention in Chicago.

He closed by noting PDG Jeff Tager's proposal that each Club consider donating 10 books per Rotarian to local children, and that the Club consider his own request that we donate 5% of our fund raising efforts to the Rotary Foundation. This would go a long way to meeting our Club Foundation goal and provide the District with significant Foundation funds for local projects when 50% of our District's donation is returned to us in three years. Whew. Fifty four visits down, seven to go.

Our program next week is the work of the Open Hearth. See you at South Cong. Go Huskies. WDOUGW

Signs of Fall are visible in the drive up from Niantic today. The first trees are starting to turn in the Deep River and East Haddam areas and leaves are sprinkled on the ground at roadside. While overcast this morning, there is a crispness to the air that heralds colder days ahead.

Nothing cold inside the Ridge, however, as we gather for our weekly repast. Our meeting today is out of the ordinary in that we rush though our normal program and start our speaker’s presentation a half hour early at twelve-thirty. This adjustment proves difficult for some as our more normal dinner chatter clashes with the introduction of guests, sergeant at arms report and announcements. The result is the kind of cacophony that reminds one of the Red Sox dugout when Francona is issuing instructions.

Sharing our open faced bacon and turkey sandwich were guests Kate Evans and John Mitchell from South Windsor, Art Hayes from Glastonbury, Anson Mooney from Hartford and ADG Dick Borden from Manchester. Major fines paid were from Herb Barall for 52 years of wedded bliss (well done, Reggie), and Bryan Hall, for moving into town and a Channel 3 TV appearance.

President Dan reminded one and all that we will be meeting at South Church for the next several weeks and that the District Governor will be making his official visit next week. Ties and jackets are mandatory. Sunday, October 3^rd is Rotary Day at the Big E and a good crowd is encouraged. Bring the kids and the grandkids and see Dan for special priced tickets.

The program today was outstanding. Dr. William McAllister, who spoke to us last spring, returned to present a fascinating look at the work of his Forward Surgical Unit in support of our Special Services forces in the early days of the Afghanistan war. The bravery, sacrifices and dedication of these soldiers was inspiring, as they moved well beyond their mission to bring a little light and joy to an impoverished people. Jackie Danise assures me that this presentation is the new standard of what we can expect from future programs. We’ll see what the Governor brings to the table next week.

The Golf Tournament is Monday at Manchester Country Club. Thanks to all who have contributed to date. Let’s pray for fair weather. It’s a big sports weekend coming up – Ryder Cup, Huskies at B.C., Red Sox at the House that Ruth(ie) Built. The leaves are turning. It must be September. Go, Huskies. WDOUGW

Better to live in New England than Florida, at least in hurricane season. That thought crossed minds today as the weak remnants of hurricane Frances moved across our area amid warnings of yet another hurricane bearing down on the Sunshine State’s west coast.

The Ridge exhibited its typical pre-meeting bustle today as the Golf Committee conducted its session with the days dwindling down in the side room; our speaker setting up a slide presentation in the main hall, and the club wise men holding court in the entrance foyer.

Our only guest today was our speaker, Inga Dunham, P.P. and P.H. of the Salisbury Club and the Chair of the District International Service Committee. After a spirited welcome song lead by the startlingly animated Bill Secord (with help from Don and Glen Peterson), Inga joined us in a lunch of pot roast, potatoes, and broccoli topped with a jello dessert.

Sergeant At Arms Darlene Roberts, entirely too comfortable in shaking people down, levied fines on Mary Martin for her birthday, Doug Willett for his first grandson, and at least one fine at every table for lack of pins, jackets, socks, couth, late arrivals and early leavers.

Today’s announcements were few. Reminder that we move to South Church beginning September 22; District Governor visit on September 22, so jackets and ties are expected on the men of the Club – the women of the Club are expected to look decent; Thank you’s from students we sponsored for RYLA leadership seminar and the Whitewater Conference; Bill Flynn reports that Dr. Tom in hanging in there with his chemo but would enjoy cards and/or contacts.

Lots of makeup’s turned in today – Loren Andreo (5), Steve Jacoby (2), Don Cramer, Lionel Lessard, Art Bradbury, George Schoen, Frank Collins.

Inga’s presentation was on the Cambodia Project and the District’s goal of raising $50,000 to assist the land mine victims in this war ravaged nation. Her slides and comments clearly demonstrated the haunting need for artificial limbs, wheel chairs, braces and other aids so these victims can lead productive lives. Rotary International is making its presence felt but there is more to do. The Board will be considering our involvement soon.

Next week the program will be on Afghanistan, presented by Dr. William McAllister. This program requires an hour for the full presentation, so plan to be here on time and for the program to begin at 12:30 p.m. Dr. Bill spoke to us last year about joint replacement surgery and was very well received. Don’t miss this one.

That’s it. See you next week. 1918, Ruthie, 19..freakin..18! Go, Huskies, WDOUGW

A bright, sunny day ushered in the glorious month of September. Ridge visitors were treated to a good crowd, a good meal, and a nice day. The visitors consisted of the sons of Dan Dienst, Dan junior and stepson, Nathan Warkintin. The room was abuzz with the heady giggles of Sox fans, who have shaken off the despair of June and July, and are now reveling in yet another late season false spring. This leaves these perennial naifs exquisitely poised for yet another September disappointment. “As flies to wanton boys, are Red Sox fans to the baseball gods.” Shakespeare, at his most insightful.

Chicken Cacciatore and ice cream topped the menu today and fortified the group for President Dan’s egregious introduction of our newly minted Sergeant at Arms Darlene Roberts as “Hyacinth Douglas-Bailey.” Darlene took it in stride as she commandeered the microphone to announce a string of miscreants, to wit: Jack Sayre and Stu Harris for appearances in local papers; Dan Larson for shockingly invading Sue Klock’s personal space; John Mozzicato, Jackie Danise, and Frank Collins for anniversaries; Todd Andrews for two tots entering kindergarten this very day; the Yankee fans for being Yankee fans; and a few late comers for being late comers. Carol Krantz asked us to say a prayer for her Army Captain daughter who is in route to Iraq where she will spend 18 months as a quartermaster.

President Dan gave notice that next week marks the resumption of a more formal dress code – “no visible shorts, wear socks.” He also noted that the Ridge will be closed from September 22 to November 3^rd and we will be meeting at South Church during this period (except for October 20 when we will be at the Cultural Center for dancing lessons.) Peter Klock, with the number for Trantolo and Trantolo dangling from his shirt pocket, once again offered Rotarians the chance to purchase single game seat back tickets to Uconn football at the Rent - $35 per ticket but talk with him soon. Our Czaress of Volunteers, Mary Martin, thanked the Club for providing 13 volunteers for the September 18 Rebuilding Together Day and acknowledged Generis Catering’s generous donation of 200 box lunches for this event.

Okay, Rotary gut-check time. With only two weeks left, we are far behind our goals for the Golf Tournament. We only have 47 golfers and 44 sponsors to date. We are far behind our target for raffle prizes. Historically 25 – 30 of our club members contribute nada, zip, nothing to this event. That is somewhere between 30% - 40% of the Club. Unacceptable. There is no good excuse for any East Hartford Rotarian to fail to contribute in some way. If you don’t golf, get a hole sponsor, join with a fellow member and contribute a raffle prize (doesn’t have to be golf related), volunteer to help around the course that day – do something just so we know you believe in the work of this Club and you appreciate the efforts being put in by Bill Saunders and his committee. There is nothing in the Rotary spirit that allows one to sit back and let others do all the work. The Golf Committee doesn’t deserve that. Prove that Rotary means something to you… now.

Next week’s program features Inga Dunham talking about the Cambodia Project, a major focus for District 7890 International service this year. See you then. Go, Huskies, WDOUGW

The August 25, 2004 meeting was treated to a special musical medley from Don Hallquist. His talents have been greatly missed and are greatly appreciated! The meeting began with the usual pledge and prayer lead by Rev. Bill Flynn. It’s the third time we’ve recited the 4-way test – well on the way to memorizing it. From the looks of the plates I could see, the pork lunch was very good.

Correction: Jackie Danise was on the winning golf team, not Dan Dienst as reported.

Frank Collins: Zone Meeting, Leadership Institute, United Nations, District Golf Outing, helped hurricane victims in Sarasota, FL.

Roy Spiller (Niantic), Larry Hangland (Wethersfield), Lionel Lessard (Rockville twice)

Jim Shay led the welcome song as we welcomed Steve Bates, Jr. and Roger Nicholson.

Sergeant-At-Arms

Dick McCarthy reported Dan Larson has a new grandson; Rev. Roger was pleased to have lunch with the best Rotary Club. Larson made a donation for the Olympic-quality dive that Don Hallquist made at the picnic. Dean Roland had his photo in the paper.

Community Service Committee Update

Mary Martin asked for volunteers to pick up donated food items and deliver them to the worksites for the East Hartford Rebuild Together Day on Saturday, September 18, 2004. If you are interested in helping with the home repair projects, visit RTHartford.org.

Golf Tournament Update

Bill Saunders reported that we have 40 sponsors (goal is 100). We have 35 paid players (goal is 130). Tournament will be held on Monday, September 20 at Manchester Country Club. A letter has been sent to all chamber members and information went into the East Hartford Gazette. Please ask friends and associates to be sponsors.

President’s Report

President Dan reported that the board approved donations to the following charities:

BSA Christopher Basler Eagle Project, Inter-Community Mental Health and the American Lung Association of Connecticut.

The Club received a thank you note from the Town of East Hartford for the donation of school supplies for needy students. Don’t forget the suggested $100 donation to RI.

Former officers and committee chairs, please help with the “responsibility book.

Neal Cunningham thanked everyone for the wedding celebration, especially Ted Mosebach, Dan Larson and Dan and Loretta Dienst.

Bob Richmond reported that the social committee set December 8 for the Holiday Party at Adam’s Mill. Mark your calendar. Menu suggestions are welcome.

Peter Klock reported that chair back seats may be sold for UConn football games. If you are interested, see him.

Next week an envelope will be circulated to raise funds for the Florida hurricane victims.

Dearly beloved, we gathered at the Dienst’s house on August 18, 2004 for the annual golf outing and to celebrate the recent marriage of
Neal Cunningham and Rosemary Hogan .

The business meeting began promptly at 6:00 p.m. The welcome song welcomed all the significant others, followed by the poolside invocation by Reverend Ted Mosebach. Bob Brown announced the following winners of the golf tournament.

Clad in formal attire (golf shirt and tie) Dan Larson performed a roast/toast of the newlyweds that seemed interminable. It was indeed hilarious but this scribe cannot capture and do justice to the humor in this format. You just had to be there!

Special thanks to Bob Brown and Bill Leone and their committees for great golf and a delicious meal. It was food, folks and fun at Rotary’s best.

Also, special thanks to Dienst’s for the use of their beautiful backyard, which was appropriately festooned with wedding decorations.

The finale of the evening was the cutting of the cake by the bride and groom. Needless to say, a good time was had by all.

The August 11, 2004 meeting was called to order by President Dan Firestone. The accompanying music was again greatly missed as we sang the opening song. We reaffirmed our commitment to the Rotary mission by reciting the four-way test. The prayer was lead by Rev. Bill Flynn. The “comfort food” luncheon was great for the gray day. For some reason, the usually spirited group started out noticeably more quiet than usual, but as the bell rang for the start of the business meeting, the noise level had reached its usual pitch.

Guests: Steve Bates, Jr., Dan Dienst’s granddaughter Samantha and Bing Liu.

Art Bradbury led the welcome song. It was again a slow start but ended on an enthusiastic note.

Sergeant-At-Arms

Richard McCarthy reported Ceil Collins, Gil Wishart and Herb Barall had birthdays. Mary Martin made a generous donation for 16 years in Rotary and Bob Richmond got a new car. The raffle was won by Jim Fallon.

President’s Report

President Dan reported that Spurgeon Stokes’ brother died. The new year’s committee assignment list is now available. He urged everyone to make a $100 donation.

Chairman Bill Saunders reported that sponsors, players and prizes are still needed. To date, we have 26 sponsors: (goal is 100) and 26 players (goal is 130).

The next meeting of the golf tournament committee is August 25, 2004 at 11:30 a.m.

Golf Outing Information

Golf at Twin Hills and festivities begin at 5:00 p.m. at the Dienst’s on August 18, 2004. No noon meeting. Please bring the following: A-G (side dish), H-R (dessert) and S-W (hors d’oeuvres). Sign ups for golf through Bob Brown.

There is a need to house a student from China from September through January. Meals and transportation should be provided. For further information, contact Bill Secord.

CLUB ASSEMBLY

President’s Dan goals are to create a manual for officers and committee chairs to provide information and continuity. He also wants to build club membership. He appointed Larry Frazier to chair the Membership Committee. Frazier reminded members that it is our responsibility as members to share Rotary. New members and retention will be the focus and the responsibility of all members.

Mary Martin reported that the Community Service Committee raised more than $500 for school supplies for needy children. Rotary has been asked to host hospitality for the volunteers for the Rebuild Together building project in September. The club has also been asked to manage the BBQ tent for the Podunk Bluegrass Festival.

It was suggested that new nametags be purchased since some classifications no longer exist. The consensus was not to purchase nametags.

Many clubs have “Happy Dollars.” After a discussion, it was decided that the board would make a decision. Some suggested that our club is already happy enough.

President Dan called for other items to be discussed. Hearing none, the meeting was adjourned following a verse of My Country ‘Tis of Thee.

The August 4, 2004 meeting was called to order by President Dan Firestone. The opening song was sans accompaniment, which was sorely missed. The prayer was lead by Rev. Bill Flynn.

Make Ups: Roy Spiller (Niantic), Bob Wood (Brighton, ME). Loren Andreo (Westerly, RI), Gerry Brady (West Hartford)

We enjoyed a light luncheon chef salad in light of the heat and humidity of this sunny August day.

Golf at Twin Hills and dinner at the Dienst’s on August 18, 2004. No noon meeting.

Please bring the following: A-G (side dish); H-R (dessert) and S-W (hors d’oeuvres).

If there are items for discussion at the club assembly, please notify President Dan.

Guest snowbird turned bird Fred Campbell was acknowledged in song enthusiastically lead by Tom Westbrook.

The golf committee paid for having their photo in the newspaper. Bill Saunders paid for a birthday. George Agnelli paid for the dirtiest garage on the Ridge.

If you know of anyone who would like to apply for the Group Study Exchange in Argentina, please contact President Dan.

Here team captain, Neal, and some of the team.
Biggest problem -- finding that elusive ninth player!
Well, actually, a bigger problem -- we lost the game.

East Hartford at Glastonbury and the annual event is upon us! A time for inter-club socializing, a few pops, a great beef dinner, and THE GAME. With President Dan to lead us forty-two Rotarians from up river gathered to take on the team from Station 35. All was ready, the battery, mighty Willett on the mound and sure-hand Cunningham behind the plate what could go wrong? Surely the duties of nuptials the week before would not sway sure-hand. Surely an extra few pounds around the middle would only add weight to Mighty Willett. Remember all those yester-years when the slap of the ball into the leather and the crack of the bat pulled us from our seats with fists raised high and with shouts of joy from our throats. Yes remember, for this year it was not to be. Where O where were our boys of summer, what has become of them? Where was Dano with the Larson boys, where Shemo of legend, where Barall the-dancer, where Cecere, and Guillemette, and the rest? Shay the-law at first, could not the Glastonbury tide arrest. Where O where were the boys of summer? Gone, gone all are gone. Fading shadows, boys no longer, now slow old men.

On a happier note the golf and outing is coming along fine. Dan Dienst has been allowed back into the house and Loretta has planned a theme for the outing. Dan has some helpers but would like to have a few more. If you can give him a hand he could lay back and enjoy the day. Give Dan a call at 569-2077. Bob Brown has about twenty-two signed up for the golf scramble and needs a few more. Call Bob at 646-2443 and sign up.

The ball game (?) score was reported by Kathy McCabe to be 18-10. Dick Lemieux said that THEY had 18 in the first inning. John McNaughton thought it was more like 28-10. Anyway there is always last year.

If you want something in High Gear write it out and hand it to the High Gear editor.

If you are introducing the guest speaker or a special guest give the editor the guests’ vitals in written form.

President Dan rang the meeting to order promptly at twelve fifteen and had us mumble through the four-way test because that’s the way Manchester does it. The Rev Flynn invoked the blessing. Is it just coincidence that we keep having fine golf weather or does the Rev have the Load’s ear? A lunch of lamb kebab was served with chocolate cake for dessert. Our guests today included one of our scholarship recipients Erica Woods and her mother. Erica will attend American International College. Dave Amberg presented her to the club.

George Schoen was sgt-at-arms and once again gathered in the sheaves. The shearing as follows; Bill Saunders $5 because Jim Sheehan has not smoked for two weeks, Don Cramer $25 for a new Cadillac, Dan Dienst $10 8 years and a birthday, Art Bradbury $5 36 years, John Shemo $10 birthday, bill Leone $10 birthday, Dee Blackwood $10 for granddaughter eleven year old Nicole Anderson a recipient of the President’s award, and Neal Cunningham $20 for getting married. That’s a dollar a year for the twenty years it took him to pop the question.

Make-ups this week were Dick McCarthy and Bob Wood at Bridgeton Lake Region, Maine and Roy Spiller and Lionel Lessard at Rockville.

Notices: Monday the 26^th our meeting will be at Glastonbury for our annual visit. There will be no meeting at the Ridge on the 28^th. Mary Martin will collect on behalf of the East Hartford Social Service Department donations of new school supplies and toiletries to assist local students in starting the new school year. Cash or checks may also be donated. Make checks out to “The Town Of East Hartford” More information can be had through the Social Services Office at 291-7294. All donations are needed by August 6^th. The next golf committee meeting will be August 4^th at 11:30.

The August 1^st trip to Saratoga will leave from the Ridge at 8:30 AM. Neal the –bridegroom is looking for water station volunteers for October 9^th. There will be a club assembly on August 11^th. The annual golf and outing will be held August 18^th. The golf will be a 10:30 AM scramble at Twin Hills in Coventry. The outing will be held at the Deinst’s hostel at 4:30 PM. Dan got Loretta’s permission for the outing at their place while she was just waking after rotor cuff surgery so Dan needs a place to bunk in.

Scotty won the raffle with ticket 615. It would have been nice if Neal had won it sort as a wedding present from the club. O well lucky in love unlucky with money. Tom the- tooth is looking for a doctor who will trade services. Tom has some dentures that were returned almost unused. We hope to see you soon Tom back at the ridge.

Old business first, my apology to Bill Saunders for my erroneous statement in last week’s High Gear. Bill was not chairman of the scholarship committee last rotary year; he was not on the committee and had no hand in candidate selections.

President Dan rang the meeting to order promptly at twelve fifteen. A lunch of bar-b-q chicken, corn-on-the-cob and potato salad was served. The desert was a chocolate mouse. Dick Borden from Manchester and Art Hayes from Belfast Maine were our guests today. Bob Brown lead the welcome song with Don our man at the ivories Hallquist as accompanist.

George Schoen was sgt-at-arms and made a fine haul. Jackie Denise fined for 14^th anniversary and Roger Nicholson for 47 years with a donation of $500.00. Roger we are going to miss you. John, the Yankee a dollar and George Schoen the loyal Red Sox fan for the two home runs hit by the bean town boys in the all star game. The raffle man, Don Carmen induced Bill Flynn to select the winning ticket held by Dan the mouth Larson.

George Agnelli has found the missing Rotary Foundation Candy Dish. It turns out that he had it all the time. This only happened because Eleanor does not like poetry. Anyone who can work this one out is a true Rotarian.

Make-ups this week were Frank and Ceil Collins, George Stewart and Jim Sheehan at Stonington, Ct., and Lionel Lessard Jr. at Rockville.

Notices: Monday the 26^th our meeting will be at Glastonbury for our annual visit. There will be no meeting at the Ridge on the 28^th. The past presidents will meet at Stewart’s cottage on the 18^th. Mary Martin will collect on behalf of the East Hartford Social Service Department donations of new school supplies and toiletries to assist local students in starting the new school year. Cash or checks may also be donated. Make checks out to “The Town Of East Hartford” More information can be had through the Social Services Office at 291-7294. All donations are needed by August 6^th. The next golf committee meeting will be August 4^th at 11:30.

A report from the golf committee shows we have 13 sponsors (goal is 100), 16 raffle items (goal is 70), and 21 players (goal is 130). Please make every attempt to secure at least one sponsor and bring in a donation for the raffle.

Dave Amberg is continuing his battle with Lyme disease and Tom; the tooth is on the road to recovery. He even shows up at the side chair for a short time. Keep it up guys we are all pulling for you.

Promptly at 12:15 our new President Dan rang the bell and his year was off and running. Running lonely though, there was no one to sit at his side. As you said P. Dan, it is lonely at the top and best you know that early. You will have followers, so lead on. Hail to the flag followed by Rev. Ted asking God's blessing and again finding the right words for the day.

A lunch of roast beef, roasted potatoes and string beans followed by strawberries and ice cream and good rotary fellowship set the tone for the meeting.

Glen Peterson introduced his daughter Victoria, and Bob Wood introduced two of our scholarship recipients, Loren Carpenter and David Liner. Loren graduated from East Catholic and will attend Smith College and major in English. David graduated from East Hartford High and will attend U-Conn and major in Actuarial Science. Loren has been involved in River Recapture's crew and a school music program. David played soccer and worked as grounds keeper at our golf course. All the while these young people have maintained high scholastic averages in school. David was the recipient of the Jack Davis Memorial Scholarship. This is given by Helen Davis in memory of Jack who was a East Hartford Rotarian elected to Rotary in 1980. David is the grandson of Bev & Bill Saunders.

Our Welcome Song was lead today by Todd Andrews, not bad, not good, but ok.

Make-ups: Frank and Ceil Collins at Great Neck, NY, Hartford, and Mystic; Steve Jacoby at Chicopee and Ware; Jim Watts twice at East Windsor; Leroy Spiller at Rockville; and Dan Russell at Rockville.

Notices: PP Neal reminds the PP's of the PP picnic on 7/18/04 at George Stewart's.
The action will start a 2 PM. A-M are to bring deserts and O-Z are to bring O'D's.
Please call PP Neal at home 623-0144,or work 860 582-8660.
Bill Saunders will hold a golf committee meeting next Wednesday at 11:30 at the ridge.
Mary Martin will collect on behalf of the East Hartford Social Service Department donations of new school supplies and toiletries to assist local students in starting the new school year. Cash or checks may also be donated. Make checks out to "The Town Of East Hartford" More information can be had through the Social Services Office at 291-7294. All donations are needed by August 6th.

On the sick list, Tom-the-tooth is coming back into form and Dave Amberg has contracted Lyme disease. He is on meds and no golf.

LRF

HIGH GEAR for June 30, 2004

"The time has come, the walrus said…" Tonight the time came for transitions, our annual handing over of the medallion and bell from one club leader to another. And a great night it was, full of good food, good friends, and "good, good, good vibrations."
Event Chair Mary Martin reported outstanding attendance of one hundred ten people, including incoming President Dan's daughter, Michele, and her husband, Larry, who came all the way from Boca Raton, Florida to attend this special evening - (or was it to escape the heat wave in South Florida?)

Outgoing President Neal (is "outgoing" the right word for this man's personality?) started the evening off with a crisp ring of the bell and a smart handoff to the soon to be Pittsburgh kid, Roger Nicholson, for his usual thoughtful invocation. The welcome song was enthusiastically lead by Art and Tom with Don on the keyboard. Sergeant at Arms Jack Ghagan, who never takes a night off had sparse pickin's, able to extort money only from Dave & Chickie Amberg celebrating their 42nd anniversary, Art & Charlotte Bradbury who check in with 57 years of wedded bliss, and from a couple of hackers who got lucky in Doug Willett and Bob Brown (a hole-in-one and an eagle, respectively).

Bill Leone took the mike to relay some good news about brother Tom Galvin, who is home from the medical wards, trying to figure out how to eat with half his stomach missing, and still very much in command of his sense of humor - Tom "complained" he had so many cards and letters from the Rotary family, he had to spend an extra day in the hospital to read them all! You are missed, Tom, especially now that you have become a cheap date.

President Neal took a moment to announce that the Board of Directors has named Roger Nicholson an Honorary Member of the Club, insuring that though he and Anne are relocating to distant climes, he will continue to extend his record as our member with the longest tenure in the Club, dating back to 1957. Speaking of being missed.

At this point, President Neal took a moment to recognize the key leaders of the Club in the past year, briefly noted the long list of Club accomplishments this year and sketched out the $45,000 in donations and good works completed in his administration. With that and accompanied by a rousing round of applause for a most successful tenure, he handed over the medallion and bell to President Dan, accepted the traditional plaques and Club gift (a digital camera in this case) and faded into the immediate obscurity of an Rotary Past President.

Out with the old, in with the new. President Dan began by introducing his family and the incoming Board of Directors and took a few minutes to outline his plans for the year. The 2004-2005 Rotary International Theme is Celebrate Rotary with special emphasis on Health concerns, Water management, Literacy and the Family of Rotary. Dan plans to concentrate on "growing the Club" - (starting with the cheesecake served for dessert this evening) - and compiling a manual for use of future officers and committee chairman. He ended his first session at the helm with an insightful alpha-numeric anecdote about the folly of trying to exceed 100% effort. A good start on his yearlong journey. He'll do just fine, once he can shake hands with his right arm, like an honest man.

Announcement: Past President's Picnic will be held Sunday, July 18th at the Stewart's lakeside clubhouse. Details to follow.

And so we headed out in night, wending our way back to the shore, listening to Ruthie's beloved Sox once again self-destruct in the heat of a New York night …all is right with the world. See ya in September. WDOUGW

A bright, beautiful day for the first meeting of Summer 2004 and the penultimate session in President Neal's reign. The day got off to the right start with the always witty greeting from Treasurer Dan Larson, a man of adroit verbal misdirection while inserting his hand deep into your pocketbook. Speaking of which, Secretary Carol Krantz handed out invoices for July-December dues. Pay quickly since rumor has it that RI is about to announce a modest dues increase for each of the next three years. (He ain't heavy; he's our Frank!)

A lot of discussion today about news articles proclaiming the increase in polio cases in the African subcontinent. RI VP and soon to be RI - UN Ambassador Frank tells us much of this is due to the "idiocy" of a governor in a region of Nigeria who has up to now refused for religious reasons to allow vaccinations of his population. Good news is that the World Health Organization has intervened and got the program back on track. Rotary has run out of money for this project (over $600,000,000 invested to date) but G-8 countries have stepped up and agreed to cover remaining costs to complete the elimination of this dread disease.

PDE Dick Seidman was our only guest today. Fines were collected from Herb Tischofer (Rotary Anniversary), Peter & Sue Klock and Skip Guillemette (Wedding Anniversaries), Bill Flynn (birthday), President Neal and Doug Willett (Pix in paper) and Dick Seidman (whole list of happy thoughts). Don Hallquist played "New York, New York" in honor of the missing John Mozzicato.

Good news on the Tom Galvin front. Tom had surgery on Tuesday and the doctors reported they think they got it all. (Hope they left this man's funny bone intact. It is a unique one but well exercised so it probably survived.) Tom will probably be in Hartford Hospital for a few days so cards and letters are appropriate.

President Neal was the recipient of a well-deserved Presidential Citation, presented by ADG Doug Willett on behalf of DG Jeff Tager. President Neal also reported that the E.H. Gazette ran an eight-page spread on the work of the Club with the School Business Partnership. And he read well-written thank you notes from scholarship recipient Dave Liner and the teacher of the young elementary student who we provided with clothes and other assistance. Both letters made the day even brighter.

Mary Martin reported that there has been a Gazebo sighting on the town green. Work is "half-done" on the structure and after landscaping we should be ready for a dedication ceremony this fall.

George Stewart invited one and all to an Open House this Sunday between 1:30 and 4 p.m. at his home at 207 Country Lane. The party is a celebration of George and Jay's 80th birthdays. Jay called this scribe later to reiterate the universality of the invitation and to discourage gift giving.

Bill Saunders modeled a golf windbreaker that will be presented to each golfer in our upcoming tournament. If you are playing, call him with your shirt size to ensure proper fit. He also encouraged all members to get on the stick soliciting players, sponsors, and raffle prizes. Although he is too polite to say it, Bill is somewhat discouraged that over half the membership historically contributes nothing to this event each year. Since this is our major fundraiser, there is no good excuse for any of us to shirk our responsibilities here. Golf Committee meetings at 11:30 a.m.on July 14th and July 28th.

Our speaker, Mary Dansinghani, presented some interesting insights on using mandalas and labyrinths to help people get centered and connected to the wholeness of life. These symbols are universal in art and religions, not to mention in the form of the Rotary wheel.
- An interesting presentation.

Makeup's turned in from Lionel Lessard, Bob Wood, and Frank and Ceil Collins.

That's enough. See you at the Stewarts on Sunday and at our Installation Dinner next week. . WDOUGW

"As the days dwindled down to a precious few…" our erstwhile President Neal presided with aplomb and a command presence over our annual visit to the Leone manse for our Sergeant At Arms Party. The crowd was goodly as was the fare. Spotted among the boisterous revelers were old friends Fred Campbell, Frank Kreson, Richard O'Brien, and Bob Popp.

As at all Sergeant At Arms parties the grub was first rate. Wielding his tongs and spatula like the culinary maestro he is, Bill Leone produced succulent steaks and sensuous salmon for all in attendance. Sided by tossed salad, ziti, and garlic bread, the main course was soon history. And this was after much imbibing of drink and inhaling of hors d'oeuvres from cheese, pepperoni and crackers to chicken tenders. And it preceded the traditional dessert of make your own vanilla sundaes. On my, no one was seen to leave the table hungry. Bill was ably assisted by Kathy McCabe, Spurge Stokes, Dean Roland, the inestimable Bev Leone and others behind the scene. As always the set up and clean up opportunities brought out a host of volunteers. All in all, a successful and enjoyable event. Let's do it once a month instead of once a year.

My recollection (this is my first sergeant at arms party since 1995) was that the Sergeant at Arms always took a night off at the annual Sergeant at Arms Party, but tonight this was not to be. Indeed, Sgt. John Mozzicato took the occasion to "clean up the books." So Bob Popp paid for three anniversaries, up to and including his 44th. Don Cramer and Frank Kreson both paid for anniversaries last year and this. Don is up to 26 and Frank is at 23. And Darlene Roberts paid for her 1st anniversary and her birthday on February 6! Brian Hall paid to celebrate a promotion with the Boy Scouts and Doug Willett paid for his new, used wheels. The Yankee fans paid still again and George Schoen paid for his forty five "yard" putt which brought tears to the eyes of Amberg and Bradbury. And finally, Larry Churchill paid for jumping to the head of the food line, shattering all protocol and embarrassing his peers.

One prominent Rotarian missing (and greatly missed) from our gathering was Tom Galvin. Tom, who has done so much over the years to coordinate this event, is in Hartford Hospital with a "rather nasty gastric ulcer" waiting for test results. Our prayers and warm wishes go out to you, Tom. You are one of the good guys - get back to us soon.

Jeanette and Fred Campbell are in town for the best of reasons. Their grandson, Ari, is graduating from EHHS on Thursday evening as the Valedictorian. And, Rotary friends, Ari will be joined on stage by Salutatorian, David Liner, whose proud grandparents are none other than Bill and Bev Saunders. Number One and Number Two. Not bad, not bad at all. Congratulations.

Declaring that the Club, in the last few days of his stewardship, had experienced enough "gaiety and frivolity" for one night, President Neal dismissed the group with a resounding clang of the bell. (The neighbors sitting on their deck behind the Leone property jumped six inches off their chairs.)

Two weeks to go. See you at the Ridge. WDOUGW

"Help us to be true to the Four Way Test" was Bill Flynn’s prayerful request as he blessed our weekly gathering, this after we had sung to Rotary and America respectively. President Neal, poised and calm as usual, presided over one of his last few meetings, with distinguished District guests at the head table, PDG Tom Voorhees and DGE Dick Seidman, both under the hospitable wing of Jim Watts, one of our Club’s strong participants in District activities over the years. Other guests today were Jeff Aube, guest of Dan Firestone, and Tommy Bates, son of our own Steve, and new Kindergarten graduate. Moe Moshovos led the Welcome Song, with reminiscence of Zorba in his style, a fortissimo effort by our members! SA Roy Spiller, duly chastised by someone for not wearing his Rotary pin, paid a fine and then asked all Rotarians without a pin to "fess up" and pay up. Count on Roy to use every advantage to raise a buck or two! Roy then announced Club membership anniversaries for Dave Amberg (5), Chuck Clarke (9), and Pat Porteous (4). He fined Gerry Brady for arriving late and leaving early, and Skip Guillemette the same. This man is dedicated! Roy also told us that Sue and Peter Klock are about to observe their 37^th wedding anniversary, for which Sue contributed handsomely.

And get this: Roy fined Yankee fans for their team being in first place, and suggested that the same apply to the Red Sox fans when they are there. Steinbrenner’s Rep, Doug Willett said that this would only be needed in April and May!

President Neal announced steady progress on the gazebo at the Town Center. Concrete and conduit in place and construction kit due any day now. He called on Darlene Roberts, YMCA Director, who presented Rotary a citation for its substantial support of the "Strong Kids Campaign". Neal asked for volunteers to assist Tom Galvin next Wednesday at 1:30 at the Ridge with loading tables, tent, etc. for the SA cookout at the home of Bill and Bev Leone, Remember, this is the official meeting on June 16, no noon meeting. Mary Martin appealed for payment by the twelve who signed up but have not paid for the June 30 Installation Banquet at Adam’s Mill, Manchester. Social hour at 6 and dinner at 7. Please pay no later than the SA party.

Makeup cards were handed to your scribe for Steve Jacoby (Savannah West,GA), Lionel Lessard (Rockville), and Roy Spiller (Manchester). We thank these boosters of our rank in the District where we are usually near the top in percentage of attendance. Jim Watts introduced our special guests from District 7890. Dick Seidman our incoming District Governor is a member of the West Hartford Club. Tom Voorhees, speaker, is a member of the Avon-Canton Club and was 7890 DG in 1999-2000. He joined Rotary in New Jersey in 1973. Tom is District Chairman of the Rotary Foundation Committee, of which our own Jim Watts is a member. Tom said he knew he was talking to a Club which has been very loyal to the Rotary Foundation through the years, contributing almost a quarter of a million dollars.

Last year District Clubs gave $148,000 to the general program of the Foundation, and another $198,000 in restricted gifts (endowment). The Foundation began in 1917 and its first contribution was $26.00 by the Kansas City Rotary Club. In 2002-2003 Rotarians contributed 55.8 million dollars!! Rotarians can be proud of the great educational and humanitarian programs which the Foundation makes possible in the world:Polio Plus, Youth Exchanges, Group Study Exchanges, Ambassadorial Scholarships, Matching Grants for development projects, all seeking to bring unity, peace, and security to the human family. The Rotary Foundation needs and deserves the support of every Rotarian, This year’s District goal has been to seek gifts from every member of $75, either by direct individual donations or through a Club donation recognizing this ratio. Our thanks to Tom for this informative talk about the very heart of Rotary’s mission.

I close with Tom’s closing quote from Winston Churchill, "You make a living by what you get; you make a life by what you give."

HIGH GEAR for June 2, 2004

"Lend a Hand, Rotary International’s current theme as the year winds down was the theme of our meeting today as we welcomed a delegation from the East Hartford/Glastonbury Magnet School on May Road. Pupils Jessica Mello and Tapan Dalal, along with their Principal, Rotarian Glen Peterson, the Community Service Coordinator Elayna Szkrybalo and PTO President Tracy Mello (Jessica’s mom) came to report on their fund raising project for Heifer International, and to receive our Club’s promised contribution toward their efforts. Our Club’s contribution was $1,000 which we added to what the children raised, $1,948, making a total donation to the work
of Heifer International of close to $3,000. Your Scribe, representing the Northeast Region of Heifer, presented the Magnet School a citation from Heifer International. Hungry families around the world will get a helping hand in the form of food producing animals. Rotary is in partnership withHeifer International.Luncheon today was eggplant parmigiana with ziti and strawberry/ rhubarb pie for dessert. Side salad also. Herb Tischofer, back from his travels, led a vigorous welcome song accompanied by a natty looking keyboard artist named Donald. Roy Spiller, SA, reported a very good day: Birthdays for Steve Bates, Chuck Clarke, Don Cramer, Herb Tischofer and "Lefty": Firestone. Dan was the only one who requested song, but he wanted only those who had suffered a broken arm in their lives to sing. Surprisingly there were several who were qualified and sang pretty well! Club membership anniversaries were duly paid for by Steve Bates, Walt Kupchunos and Gil Wishart. Dave Amberg paid for a new car (brand not
clear) and Dan Russell paid for his fiftieth college reunion (pretty sure it was Syracuse U.).
Sue Klock, our hard-working roster preparer with a mind for detail and accuracy asked us to check the latest version and inform her of any needed changes. We appreciate your sticktoitedness, Sue!
Bill Saunders reminded everyone of the Golf T. Committee meeting next Wednesday at 11 AM at the Ridge. Sponsor forms were circulating for the tournament, so it’s time to get cracking on recruiting support. Let’s give Bill and his
committee our best effort. They deserve it, our service projects need it, the community will be better for it.
President Neal announced nice thank you letters from East Hartford Basketball coach/coordinator for our financial support of the Town’s program to keep kids busy and out of trouble through sports; and from the
Performing Arts program for our Club’s support of creative programs for children in the community. Again, Rotary at work, this time in the avenue of community service. Neal does a great job of keeping us informed about
the good we are doing. Thanks, Neal, it’s been a super year with you at the helm.
Our District reputation for high attendance was maintained by the loyal maker uppers, Herb Tischofer, twice at Naples, FL; Lionel Lessard and Chuck Clarke at Rockville; and Frank and Ceil Collins at W. Springfield, MA (District Assembly), Beijing, China (Provisional Club Meeting), Seoul, Korea (Rotary Club of Hanyang), Osaka, Japan (International Institute)
and Osaka, Japan (International Convention). Just think: our East Hartford Club gets around!
Mary Martin says the numbers look good for our Installation Banquet June 30 at Adams Mill in Manchester. Social hour at 6 PM and Dinner at 7 PM.
Please get your checks in to Mary ASAP, $35 per person. This occasion is a high light of our Rotary year as we thank our outgoing President and welcome our new President to take over July 1st.
Today’s winning raffle ticket was held by Carmen Piscatello, even if he didn’t seem to care. Jack Ghagan, however, was looking after him!
ROTARY AT A GLANCE: 1,211,723 Rotarians; 31,603 Clubs; 529 Districts; 166
Countries.
Let’s all do our best in some way, great or small, to "LEND A HAND".
Perambulatin’ Parson (reporter: Roger Nicholson)

HIGH GEAR for May 26, 2004

"Imagination" was the theme of our guest speaker today, The Reverend Dr.
Henry Millan, new resident of Covenant Village in Cromwell, formerly of
East Hartford. Henry describes himself as "retired, retreaded and
rejoicing." He’s minister-in-residence at South Congregational Church of
East Hartford. He was the founder of the Pastoral Counseling Center of
West Hartford. A person of great humor, Henry helped us see how a
"positive imaging" (imagination) can help us cope with life’s greatest
challenges. Our thanks to Art Bradbury for bringing this helpful program
to us. "What makes your heart sing?" Focus on this when clouds gather!
Today’s gong rang on the dot and "DH" (not designated hitter) led us in a
robust rendition of "the song", after which we saluted the flag. Ted
Mosebach gave a thoughtful grace and we sat down to a repast featuring
"mystery chicken" with string beans and rice, followed by banana cake.
Dan Russell, (with intimations of Roger Driggs) led the raucous welcome
song for our only visitor, today’s guest speaker. How we do love to sing!
Don H. brings it out of us, that’s for sure.
SA John Mazzicato gets an Emmy for today’s report! We discovered "the
American Idols" in the persons of Carmen Piscatello and Scotty Howatt,
who were the only two qualified to sing Happy Birthday to Dean Roland.
You had to be older than Dean, who is 82. Then, John followed this feat
by telling us George Stewart (80 on May 30th) wanted a full-voiced
rendition of Happy Birthday. We brought the rafters down! So it was a bit
anticlimactic when John told us about club anniversaries for Herb Barall,
12 years and Larry Churchill, 20 years.
Carol Krantz handed this editor a long list of makeups, too much for this
space. It was a list of more than 35 Rotarians and "spices" who staffed
the recent Seniors Prom at East Hartford High School. Thanks to everyone
for a stellar event!
You had to be proud today to be a Rotarian! President Neal told us the
club received the School Business Partnership Sam J. Leone Award for
meritorious support of this youth program through our high school. He
also reported a very enthusiastic thank you for our $500 contribution to
Sonteni International, an aids intervention program in Kenya. Gil
Wishart’s daughter is the link with this vitally important health
initiative.
How exciting to hear from Glenn that the children that attend the East
Hartford/Glastonbury Magnet School have raised $1,600 for Heifer Project.
We will add $700 to their effort. On June 9th we will feature the young
people at our meeting.
Still more great news: Dave Amberg announced the East Hartford Rotary
Scholarship Awardees for 2004:
Jessica Belasano (EHHS) will attend Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Lauren Carpernter (ECHS) will attend Smith College
Maureen Fearon (EHHS) will attend Boston College
David Liner (EHHS) will attend the University of Connecticut (David
receives the Jack Davis Scholarship, thanks Helen.)
Erica Woods (EHHS) will attend American International College
Thanks, Dave, and the hard working committee for this good news. Each
award is for $2,500.
Steve Jacoby complimented Rotarian Doug Willett for his many citations
for community service. Steve is pleased that one of our local RYLA
students is part of the fourteen who will go to the national RYLA
Conference at the University of Wisconsin this summer.
Bill Saunders gave a pep talk on the Golf Tournament. He thanked Carol
Krantz for the introduction of special sartorial items like hats and tee
shirts, also garland pins. The committee will now bear down on sponsors
starting next week. Thanks, Bill, for your steady leadership.
President-elect "Lefty" Firestone, looking very well, told us he
appreciated all the cards, calls and visits. "It only hurts when I
breathe," he added. He reminds everyone to sign up for committees ASAP.
Finally, Mary Martin reported significant progress on the gazebo. There’s
now an excavation! She also urges signups for the installation dinner.
Please give her your check next week, $35 per person.
Jack Ghagan won today’s raffle and we closed with one verse of "America
the Beautiful."
Perambulaltin’ Parson, Roger and Anne Nicholson

HIGH GEAR FOR MAY 19. 2004

An overcast hangover from the previous night’s thunderstorm did not dull
the enthusiasm of East Hartford’s Rotarians and guests who gathered at
Veterans Memorial Clubhouse today. President Neal’s forthright strike of
the gong quieted the room and we sang the usual song without Don’s
accompaniment. He’s en route back from Sanibel Island. Bill Flynn gave a
thoughtful invocation and we sat down to a tasty repast of filet of sole,
mashed potatoes and vegetable medley, with carrot cake for dessert. Oh
yeah, I forgot to mention we did salute the stars and stripes also. Our
nation sure needs our support these days!!
Many makeups were handed to me today, as follows: Steve Jacoby at New
Britain and Savannah West, GA, Don Cramer, Ft. Myers, FL, Herb Tischofer,
twice, at Naples Bay, FL, and Art Bradbury at Tenerife, Spain. Welcome
back, Art! Eight members made up at the Scholarship Committee’s recent
meeting, to whit: B. Wood, B. Flynn, M. Martin, B. Secord, D. Willett, P.
Porteus and J. Fallon. Dave Amberg has been busy with Habitat for
Humanity and gets credit for four makeups. Way to go, Dave!
The Welcome Song, led by the author himself, Tom Westbrook, was rendered
for guests Jeff Aube (Dan Firestone’s guest, only Dan didn’t make it
today. More below about that); and Dan Larson’s sister, Mary Lou Onidi,
who was to introduce today’s guest speaker. SA John Mazzicato reported
donations for birthdays by Jim Watts, Margaret LaCroix and Leroy Spiller.
Roy asked everyone over age 71 to sing to him. Half the people present
gathered around Roy’s table for a cacophony of HB, or so it looked!
Margaret also paid for her eight year Club anniversary. Gerry Brady was
fined for being on time and confusing everyone. Tom Galvin clarified it
by telling us Gerry was on time for last week! Never mind, Gerry, we know
you are slowing down.
Mary Martin reminded us yet again it’s time to sign in for the
Installation Banquet on June 30 at Adam’s Mill. Let her know ASAP. Also,
be sure to add your name to the list of 53 signed up already for the
annual SA party at Bill Leone’s home June 16 at 5:30 PM. SUE KLOCK IS
TRYING TO FINALIZE THE REVISED ROSTER, SO LET HER KNOW AT ONCE ABOUT ANY
CHANGES. Steve Jacoby presented President Neal with a colorful flag from
the Savannah West Club. He also told us left over food supplies from the
Senior Ball went to the East Hartford Shelter. Jack Ghagan announced it’s
been decided not to participate in the Town Memorial Day Parade this
year, due to commitments around the Gazebo project. Maybe next year?
President Neal reported from the Board of Directors that donations have
been voted for the Summer Program in the Arts for Kids ($675) and the
East Hartford Coach’s Summer Basketball Program ($350). Solid community
support from Rotary. We should be proud! Dan Dienst reported that Bunny
Belanger’s cancer intervention surgery went well and the prognosis is
highly favorable (90%). Check with Dan about how to assist Moe these
days. Also, Bob Richmond said we should send cards and notes to Bunny.
His recent illness was greatly helped by the support he got from the
Club. Now, our President-Elect’s situation was shared by Neal. It seems
Dan Firestone was riding his bike and hit a pot hole which threw him off
the bike. He broke his arm, plus some abrasive injuries, hence his
absence from today’s meeting. Sorry to hear this, Dan, and please know of
our concern and support. Mend quickly, your installation is coming up
fast!
Dee Blackwood is writing a book about people’s travel experiences. She’s
been working on this since 1995. She invites you to send her any of your
travel experiences, good or bad, happy or sad, slight or major. Dee feels
there’s a lot to share and would like to hear from you about any incident
in your traveling experience. Should be an interesting compilation, Dee.
Today’s speaker, introduced by Mary Larson Onidi, was Sister Pat KcKeon
of the Sisters of Mercy Order. She represents the Mercy Housing and
Shelter Corporation. Sister Pat told us of the persistent problem of the
homeless. There are 40,000 shelters nationwide! A permanent underclass of
homeless persons seems to be becoming a reality in America .Many are
children, with all the long-term implications for them which lack of
stable home life causes. Sister Pat told us about the initiative called
"REACHING HOME", a ten year plan to end long term homelessness in
Connecticut. This is a program which Rotary surely should have a keen
interest in. It is dismaying to think that a country like ours can’t
provide basic housing for its neediest citizens. We salute the Sisters of
Mercy for their persistence in working on this critical social problem.
See you next week. LEND A HAND.
Perambulatin’ Parson
Roger Nicholson

High Gear for May 12, 2004
A nice May day was today’s climatological context for the gathering on
top of East Hartford known as ROTARY. Some of us felt like it was the
12th of May in the modern Barbaric Era. When will the world learn?
Violence begets violence. Show tunes by Don at the keyboard helped
alleviate the dismay at what’s going on, just a little. "Edelweiss"
struck a note of love and hope.
Ted Mosebach shared a sensitive invocation, asking divine power to help
Rotarians make a difference, then we enjoyed a tasty lunch of chicken,
rice and gravy with a vegetable medley, and fruit Jell-O to follow.
President Neal asked for introduction of guests and Dan Firestone
presented his guest, Jeff Aube, followed by Herb Barall’s presentation of
his guest, Marc Yves-Regis. Jim Reik teamed with Don for a well-sung
rendition of the Welcome Song.
SA John Mazzicato told us of the birthday donations by Spurgeon Stokes
and Marcia LeClerc, to whom we sang a boisterous HB. John also informed
us of a donation by Hyacinth Douglas-Bailey for her Club membership
anniversary. Gil Wishart and George Stewart made a special donation in
honor of Roy Spiller’s 50th year as a Mason. Peter Klock had today’s
winning ticket for the weekly raffle. By the way, money raised by this
means supports the annual Sargent at Arms party, slated for June 16 this
year at Bill and Bev Leone’s lovely home. Please sign up very soon for
this event. Mary Martin is looking for reservations for the Installation
Banquet on June 30. Please give her your check ($35 per person) ASAP.
President Elect Dan Firestone took the podium to thank everyone for the
stellar work which made the E. Hartford Seniors Ball a great success last
week at the High School. He cited many persons, especially Sue Klock who
did terrific advance preparation. Unfortunately the Press failed to
mention one word about Rotary’s efforts, par for the course really.
Jack Ghagan is looking for Rotarians to participate in the Town Memorial
Day parade, especially anyone with an antique auto. He will be hoping to
touch base next week at the Ridge with any who may be interested. OUR
ROTARY FAMILY notes Don Cramer’s mother’s passing recently. Our sympathy
to you, Don and June. Also, Dan Dienst shared news that Bunny Belanger
will have surgical intervention very soon now for early stage cancer.
Volunteers may be needed to help out. Check with Dan and Loretta. Let’s
keep Bunny and Moe in our prayers.
President Neal announced that Rotary will receive an award from the
School Business Partnership next Wednesday (May 19) at 4:30 PM at the
Ridge. Neal is hoping some members will attend with him. Give Neal a call
if able. The Golf Tournament Committee will have an important meeting
next week at 11 AM at the Ridge. It’s not too soon to be seeking
sponsors, forming teams, gathering prizes, all the many aspects of a
successful tournament.
Today’s guest speaker (the first in a while!) was introduced by Jackie
Denise. Doctor Robert McAllister, an East Hartford native, is an
orthopedic surgeon specializing in joint replacement procedures and
related arthritis management. A distinguished graduate of UConn Dr.
McAllister gave us a power point lecture about joint replacement and the
many vagaries of arthritis as an aspect of aging. Really, it was sort of
a mini graduate course in the subject, telling us much more than we could
absorb about the very pertinent subject. Also, the good doctor
interspersed his slides with scenes from his tour in Afghanistan where he
was deeply involved with our military’s efforts to rebuild the country.
We also got a few glimpses of his personal life, including his great
interest in animals. Overall, Dr. Bob came across as a very well-rounded
individual who must be exceptionally good at his profession. It struck me
that he would be fun to have as a surgeon, combining knowledge, skill,
and a personable manner. Thanks, Jackie, for a most informative program
today.
Since the adjournment time had passed Neal thanked our speaker and
dismissed us "sans singing" and we dispersed, some to the links, some
back to work, some to their gardens, some to appointments, your scribe to
the word processor which now conveys this second May newsletter to you
all. May you have a pleasant and productive week, seeking to "LEND A
HAND."
Perambulatin’ Parson (aka Roger Nicholson)

"Every ticket’s a winner" said Spurgeon as I handed over my raffle
dollar, after Dan had relieved me of twelve other dollars. Roy Spiller
had the lucky number today, however. But I thought "Spurgeon’s right,
every ticket is a winner, because every Rotarian is blessed to belong to
such a great organization as Rotary, and also such a wonderful Club as
ours."
Bill Flynn gave a thoughtful invocation after the flag salute and we sat
down to an open faced roast beef sandwich with gravy, potato salad and
green beans, with sherbet for dessert. Roy Spiller was table hopping with
roster pages, getting everyone to proof the data for the upcoming
edition. A sign-up clip board came by for reservations for the
Installation Banquet on Wednesday, June 30 at Adam’s Mill. Payment now
due, with a June 16 deadline. Please pay Mary Martin or Spurgeon Stokes
$35 per person. Cash bar, but wine will be on the tables.
One guest today, Dennis Weir of Glastonbury (intro by Steve Jacoby),
serenaded by the awesome singers of Rotary led by Larry Churchill and
Maestro Don. Much talk about Rotary’s 100th anniversary convention June
of 2005 in Chicago. District Governor elect, Dick Seidman has reserved a
block of rooms at the Westin. Contact him by Friday, May 7 to get on the
early list. SA John Mazzicato announced Club membership anniversaries for
Bob Brown (29), John McNaughton (16) and Neil Cunningham (13), plus a
birthday for Bob Brown. Bill Flynn paid for a new car. Bob opted for
silence in observance of his natal day.
SA party will be at Bill and Bev Leone’s lovely home again. June 16 is
the date. The traditional "boys of summer" game with Glastonbury Rotary
may be the last Monday in July. Get in shape! President Neal reported we
made the huge sum of $208.69 at the recent Blue and White scrimmage. He
also represented us at Career Day at EH Middle School. Neal mentioned a
movement to preserve the Chicago home of Paul Harris is taking shape in
the Rotary world. The Saratoga trip is now sold out, but your scribe did
not catch the voice of the one who announced this.
Glen Peterson thanked the Club for its partnership with the East
Hartford/Glastonbury Magnet School in raising funds for Heifer Project.
He reported enthusiastic fund raising by the school children, already
exceeding their $700 goal, which we will match as a Club. He read a
wonderful note sent to him by a second grader telling him she had raised
$73.69! The final wrap up is at hand and we are all invited to the Fun
Fair on May 15, 3 to 7 P.M. at the school (McCartin) on May Road.
Makeups reported today were Jim Sheehan (2) at Saratoga Springs, and
Auburn, AL (2); Roger Nicholson (2) at Saratoga Springs; Steve Jacoby San
Antonio NW, Texas and Savannah W., Georgia; and Celia and Frank Collins
at Glastonbury and Bermuda.
Today’s program was a very interesting and informative presentation by
Bill Secord and Glen Peterson about the Baccalaureate Academy adjacent to
East Hartford High School, and the Magnet School programs of the region,
particularly the East Hartford/Glastonbury school. Jim Fallon deserves a
lot of recognition for the development of these outstanding educational
enterprises, as does Bill Secord who was involved from the inception.
These excellent educational programs reflect a strong partnership between
the State and Municipalities. East Hartford has been distinguished by
this program. A new Magnet School facility is soon to be built at
Rentschler Field. Thanks Bill and Glen for a very good presentation.
This newsletter was written by THE PERAMBULATIN’ PARSON. Let’s remember
to "lend a hand" in keeping with Rotary’s current slogan.

President Neal rang us to order and another Wednesday East Hartford Rotary meeting was underway. After the Song-of –Songs George Schoen called upon the Lord for His blessing. A lunch of capon, green beans, and mashed potatoes with a desert of strawberry short cake followed.

Although there were no guests today Bill Flynn and Frank Kreson were welcomed back.

I think the welcome song, led by Gail Greaney was for our wandering duo. Sgt-at-Arms reserve Dan Dienst, filling in for Tommy Tooth, fined Frank K. for 24 years in Rotary and his many, many transgressions. Dan also fined Jim Fallon, Lionel Lessard, and Stu Harris for birthdays. It was kind of a slow day for reservist Dan. Make-ups; Don Cramer, Sanibel-Captiva Rotary, and Herb Discover, Naples Bay Rotary.

President Neal reported that Bob Richmond came through his operation without complications and faster than expected. There must have been a pitcher of beer waiting for him back in his room. Great to here Bob is doing so well. Hopefully, he’ll be back swinging his big club soon. (Golf club). P. Neal also reported that our club received a certificate of merit at the district conference for the gazebo-on-the-green project. He read a letter of thanks from the Somers Rotary Club for our recent contribution reported in the last High Gear. Bill Saunders set the date for our golf fundraiser for September 20^th at Manchester. P.E. Dan passed out committee preference forms. Please fill out and return to Dan. Other reminders are the Sr. Prom is next Wednesday, suitcases can be left at any town fire station until May 1^st and the MADD Walk club contacts are Mary Martin and spurge Stokes. The installation dinner will be July 12^th.

Dee Blackwood once again had a speaker bug out. However, being the true Rotarian that she is, she stepped to the mike and gave an interesting twenty minutes on the life and times of her life as a travel agent. From her first goof to her setting up a traveler in a $5000.00 a night cabana and then putting him on a flight in coach she kept our interest.

With only a few dry statistics to fill out her talk, she did a great job. Dee, you are a good speaker.

April 25, 1876 the Cubs beat Louisville 4-0 (first NL shutout) in the first NL game

April 11, 1917, Babe Ruth beat the NY Yanks, pitching to a 3-hit, 10-3 win for Boston

In the very middle of a very muddled telling of an old joke by Old Dean president Neal thankfully rang the bell. The Song of Songs followed as tradition dictates. Rev Roger called upon the Lord of Lords and with thanks and gratitude called for His blessing. There upon Sgt-at-arms Tom began his rounds and a fine job he did. As was mentioned last week Andy Andreo and Rev Roger celebrated their 76^th birthday (or is it birthdays) by a large donation by Andy. A nice birthday present to the club. Anniversaries; Gail Greaney

2 years, Marcia Leclerc 5 years, George Agnelli 29 years (perfect attendance?), and Staci Brazalovich 5 years. Bill Leone was fined $2.00 for a derogatory remark toward the Sgt-at–arms. For only $2.00 it could not have been one of Bill’s best efforts.

Visitors today were Steven Bates Jr. and Russ Dale of the Springfield club. It was good to see Russ again. Steve Jr had a look on his face that said holly cow these old guys pray?

Yes Steve we need more help than you will ever know till you’re an “old guy” Doug Willett led us through a rousing “Welcome Song”

Make-ups; Don Cramer at Sanibel-Captiva, Florida and Frank & Ceil Collins at Glenville, NY. Frank was the Polio-Plus Dinner Speaker

President Neal reported that the board of directors voted to discontinue staffing the concession booth at Rentschler Field. The net income to our club did not compensate us for the hours involved. The board also voted to fund two shelter boxes. Each box will provide basic shelter and sustenance for a family during an emergency.

They’re being no speaker again this week we adjourned early with one stanza of “GOD BLESS AMERICA”

HIGH GEAR for April 14, 2004

President Neal brought the meeting to order at 12:15 PM sharp with a rap of the bell. Gil Wishart called upon the Lord to bless us. A meal of tilapia, a fish from Hawaiian waters, was served with mashed potatoes and cold slaw. The fish, new to this writer, is tender, mild, and tasty.

There were several announcements. Letters of thanks were received from William Sime and Interval House for $250.00 donations to each. We will be hearing from William when his project is completed. The August 1st bus trip to Saratoga will cost $40.00 a person including the bus, food on the bus, and admission to the racetrack. The board of directors will meet Monday the 19Th at the Cultural Center. The golf committee will meet next Wednesday at 11:30 at the ridge.

Two presentations were made. President Neal presented Mike Knepp with his official rotary badge. Now that you are official Mike you can loosen up a bit and ware civvies. Danny O'boy standing in for Congressmen Larson presented to the Spillers (only Roy was present) a Certificate of Meritorious Service from the U.S. Congress. We do stand in awe. Spurg passed out badges to the stadium workers for Saturday's scrimmage. If you are in doubt about time and place call Spurg at 521-5386.

On comes the Sgt-at -arms Roy. Fines from Andy Andreo, Roger Nicholson, and Larry Churchill for birthday anniversaries. Spurgeon anteed up for fifty-one years of married life. Betty Ann he was very gracious, you obviously taught him well.

Lottery winner today, Ceil Collins.

Make-ups: at Fort Myers; Don Cramer and Bob Wood; at Naples Bay; Chuck Clarke and Herb Tischofer; and Jack Sayre at Summit, N.J.

They're being no speaker this week again we were dismissed with a verse of "America" at 1:00 PM.

The singing of " America" brought to mind April 12th,143 years ago. At 4:30 AM General Beauregard’s order to fire began the bombardment of Fort Sumter. Four years less three days later on April 9th General Robert E. Lee surrendered to General U.S. Grant and the American Civil War ended.

While the generals were at the business of surrender the boys of war came together on a large field below the Court House and fifty years later a Pennsylvanian would remember being among the Johnny rebs and feeling as well treated as if he had been among his own boys," and a person would think we had been fighting under the same flag".

LRF

While the members were assembling our own virtuoso Don entertained with a snappy version of “Take me out to the ball game”. President Neal opened the meeting with the ringing of the bell at 12:47 sharp. Dave Amberg followed with the invocation. A lunch of raisin glazed ham, asparagus and potatoes au gratin was then served. Dessert was a tasty matza cake. There in one lunch we celebrated both Passover and Easter. What good folk we are.

Sgt-at-arms Tom G. could not raise enough in fines with only Bill Secord and Jack Ghagan being fined for birthdays so he fined the members two dollars each in honor of the Uconn boys and girls basketball championships. Leave it to the digger of healthy ivories to come up with that one.

Guests for today were DGE Dick Seidman and Bob the banker from Glastonbury. The welcome song was led by Scotty in-the-red-suspenders. DGE Dick announced the passing of Don Kennett of the Somers Club. Don was the Rotarian who was to undergo organ transplant and for whom we were asked by the Somers club to contribute helping funds. We did raise five hundred dollars. The funds will now be used to off set Don Kennett’s accrued medical expenses. The Somers club raised one hundred fifty thousand dollars in less than a month. This speaks volumes about Rotary.

John Shemo reported on the very successful hoedown Saturday last and thanked many for all the help and effort. About a third of the club was involved in the affair. Among much merriment Dick Lemieux was introduced to a very good friend of several members of our club the very fine Jack Daniel. It is a shame that Dick took so long to meet this smooth fellow.

Sue Klock once again asked for volunteers to help prepare the meal for the Senior Citizens Prom. The prom will be held May 5^th at 4:30 PM in the East Hartford High School cafeteria. Call Sue at 430-1442 or e-mail her at suehklock@aol.com. This is a hands-on project of our club.

The raffle was won by Don Hallquist. This was his second win. The first win was donated to the Foundation in the name of godfather Piscatello. This time Don will give it to HIS favorite charity.

April, the most welcome of months. Gone are the wild winds of winter, the snarling snowstorms, silver slippery sleet, cold clinging chills, and dark dreary days. You bring the promise of spring, the greening of the land, the ever lengthening of the daylight, the snowbirds, the tax refund, and Great Outdoor Laddies Fun.

Wednesday, Mar.31, 2004
Bruce Dupreist says we need it, so I guess we can't complain about the rainy day. Especially when it helps make the grass turn green! An eclectic array of tunes from Uncle Don's keyboard today: "Home on the Range" to "Falling Leaves"- Beautiful!

After an invocation from this scribe, we sat to a meal of chicken cacciatore, string beans and sauteed mushrooms, with a plate of finger-food goodies for dessert. Our table was favored with the presence of returning snowbirds Jacquie Danise and Walt Kupchunos from beautiful downtown Venice (no Virginia, not the one in Italy!) Making our table a very special place was PDG from Kennebunk, ME, Craig Wellman. Other Guests included Rotarians Delle Clouch from Meredith, NH, and Norm Rauscher from Wilbraham, MA. New Paul Harris Fellow John McNaughton showed a lot of spirit in leading the Welcome Song, with the help of Don Hallquist, of course!

Sgt. at Arms Jack Sayre whined a little as he offered a lame excuse about how last week's S.A.A. had collected all the fines, leaving him with nothing but late arrivers and early leavers. He felt a bit better when he silenced this rabble-rouser reporter with a fine for pointing out that his arm band was wearing the inside of the fine bank!
Announcements from President Neal:
Rentschler Field signup for April 17 going strong...still need some more help.
District Conference (April 23-25) still has openings...always a great time!
Sue Klock made a plea for someone to act as Chief Honcho for the May 5 Senior Citizen Prom Day at EHHS. She and Peter will be away all week, so a leader to "run the kitchen" is critically needed. Dan Dienst volunteered to make the "logistics run" to Sam's. This is really a fun time of involvement and someone to manage it needs to step up to the plate now.
This Saturday is the Big BBQ night, at 6:00PM. Tex Johnny Shemo will have lots of TV sets on hand for us to watch the Lady Huskies win their first game in the Final Four in New Orleans.
Thank you notes were acknowledged from CT National Guard for the round-up and gift of paper back books, arranged for by Leo Christmas. Also, from The Rotary Club of Tokai, South Africa, for our $500 to their Lavender Hill Project.
Our board has spent $238 on ceiling tiles in the lower kitchen of the Ridge.
Dues are still outstanding from somebody(s)....Can you believe it?
Steve Jacoby took 3 high school young people to the Interact Conference in West Springfield. They need help (Rotarians) for the Easter Egg Hunt and Project ID in co-op with the EH Police Dept. on April 3 from 9:30 to 11:30.
Raffle winner was Dan Russell!
Program today, introduced by Frank Collins, was Asst District Gov. Bob Veedeman, from the Wilbraham/Hampden club. The subject? The upcoming US Women's Open Golf Championship at The Orchards Country Club in South Hadley, MA on June 28-July 4.
Rotary has the opportunity to manage the "Merchandise Pavilion," but must line up 300 volunteers for the week, with 100 more still needed. Rotary will benefit, by providing a service, as well as by getting lots and lots of publicity, locally and TV nationally. It costs $95 to work as a volunteer. Twenty EH Rotarians have already signed up and you can learn more about it by getting in touch with Bob Wood.
Maker-uppers were: Herb & Chuck (2) in Naples, FL; Walt (2) and Jacquie, in Venice-Nokomis, FL; Don in Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel, FL; and a whole bunch at Dan L's for a Fireside Chat: Glen, BobB, Jack, Marcia, Dick, Jim S. & Larry. Whew!
And that's it for March...I've enjoyed writing...hope you've enjoyed reading...Arthur

The beautiful weather brought a spring to the step of most of us, and Maestro Don Hallquist truly had spring in his fingertips, as his "social piano' gave forth with light-hearted Broadway tunes. How could we be so lucky, with a master at the keyboard every week of the year!

Following a fitting invocation by Rev Ted Mosebach, beseeching us, as always, to share with others, we sat to a Krause (and my) favorite, Chicken Pot Pie. Ummmmm!

Guests today included Kristine Beane, Don Healy, Roger, and Dick Seery. Looking for all the world like song leader par excellence Roger Driggs of old, Dan Russell gave a perfect imitation as he led us in East Hartford's own Welcome Song.

Sgt.at Arms Tom Galvin also led us thru a laundry list of celebrants who enriched our fine bank for these misdemeanors: Himself, for not wearing a Rotary badge; Ghagan, for going back to work full time (hooray!); Larson and Guillemette, Rotary anniversaries; Agnelli, who paid .75 for a like number of years in business (but an embarrassed relative with the initials Doug Willette would like us to believe that he paid the difference [$74.25] for his cheap-skate kin!); Shemo, for a radio commercial; and our everyday role model of good fellowship, good spirits, and wonderful sense of humor, never-grow-old Carmen J. Piscatello for attaining age 89! Acceding to Carmen's special request, Danny Boy Larson sang a heartrending version of the song with the same name. Verrry touching!

· Pres. Neal asked for interest in a club presence in the Mem. Day Parade???

· District Conf.April 23-25. Not as big a turnout... There's still time to sign up!

· Steve Jacoby's: Project I.D. will be done again, April 3rd, from 9:30 to 11:00; and, anyone interested in a Saratoga trip this summer, let Steve know!

· UConn will scrimmage on April 17 at Rentschler Field; we have opportunity to do a concession booth and beer kiosk. Seemed like a good show of hands!

· The Big BBQ night, April 3, Texas Johnny Shemo reminds us once again that: Payment should be made by next week to Dan Larson; that beer, bourbon, coffee and a "cowboy killer" will be served, but for anything else (including mixers) ya gotta bring yer own! Cowboy attire is mandatory. If UConn is playing, TV's will be there, too, and a big bunch of folks...so, expect a crowded room!

Early-leaver Marcia Leclerc gleefully accepted her Raffle winnings as she bounded for the door with a "Eureka, I've never won before!" And....

Steve Jacoby then introduced our program, Steve Goddard, lawyer, author, raconteur, and (your editor just learned) a Bates grad(!), who enthralled us with tales of the Wright Brothers' creative prowess which led to the first powered flight in Kitty Hawk. There were not-heard-before-stories of early death of Wilbur, battles with the Smithsonian and the U.S. government, and the sad account of Orville's estrangement from sister Catherine. The time moved all to quickly...we would like to have listened longer. Thanks, Steve, a good program!

Didn't learn of any other make-ups this week, besides Frank and Ceil at the Pocomont, PA - Key Garden PETS meetings. (I think Jim and Ruth were there, too!)

And wasn't it great we could be together!......................................Arthur

Average age of EH Rotarians: 62.7
Median age of EH Rotarians: 65 (i.e. half are under 65, half over)
Those 30-35 = 2
Those 36-40 = 2
Those 41-45 = 7
Those 46-50 = 6
Those 51-55 = 4
Those 56-60 = 9
Those 61-65 = 13
Those 66-70 = 19
Those 71-75 = 14
Those 76-80 = 6
Those 81-85 = 4
Those 86+ = 1

And once again, here it is!
Arthur
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St. Patrick's Day - Mar.17, 2004
Sure an' begorra, 'twas truly a day for the wearin' o' the green -- E'en by them what has not a drop o' Irish blood in 'em. Oh well, 'twas evident they need all the help they kin get! A repast fit for the Irish kings o' the castles was laid out for us in the "wine 'n cheese" segment. Well done, O'Dino Rolando, ya' earned yer shamrocks today! Now maybe ye'll be tellin' us who ordered the snow, an' with only 3 days til spring, yet!

Don O'Hallquist dug deep and found his Irish keyboard repertoire; the early libation prompted lots of singin' round the piana, producing a most festive air. Our Prexy, Neal O'Cunningham called on George O'Schoen for the invocation; with a lesson in spelling and pronunciation, George asked for blessings on our gathering, the goals of Rotary International, those less fortunate than we, and the corned beef and cabbage!

Without Guests, Danny O'Larson stood and wept silently through a heartwrenching rendition of "Danny O'Boy." Sgt at Arms Roy O'Spiller reported birthdays for Messers Hangland, Collins, & Lemieux. Dick's was for a big 80, which rated a stirring Happy Birthday song. Roy also suggested support for Dan Larson's St. Joseph's (no, not the aspirin) Medal of Merit award on Sunday at the Cathedral at 3:00PM.

President Neal gave "thank you's" to Roy, Tom, & Don for their stellar work in making the Paul Harris evening such a success. He also recognized Leo Christmas for doing such a good job with the paperbacks for the guys and gals in Iraq. In like manner, he read "thank you's" from Mary Beth Reid and Loretta Dienst for their recognitions. Keeping in the family spotlight, Dan Dienst then immediately won the (O')day's raffle!

"Texas Jack" Johnny Shemo reminded us of the BBQ event coming on April 3rd. Beer and Bourbon & branch water will be served, but if you crave wine with your meal, bring it! Checks are welcome any time now ($25 per person) and there'll be a prize for the best western outfit. Spurs, too, are welcome but take 'em off before bedtime!

Spurge Stokes gave us a lot of fascinating info on our ages; hopefully, Sue Klock will find the space to put it all on the E.H. Rotary website, space we don't have here!

Pres. Neal's Announcements from the last Board Meeting:
· Bids for the erection (tsk!) of the Gazebo are in; work to start by April's end.
· $250 was approved for landscaping at the Middle School by a local Boy Scout, Will Sime, as his Eagle Scout project.
· $500 authorized for SOTENI International, to fight aids in Kenya.
· Decision to give five $2500 scholarships this year (includes the $2000 given by Helen Davis in honor and memory of her husband and former Rotarian Jack).
· Somers Club Don Kennett project: an envelope will go 'round next week.
· $750 to Heifer Project. All who like can also send checks to E.H./Glast. PTO.
· DUES ARE DUE...that's right...right now...you know who you are!

Program today...Fireside Chat Reports:
We heard from Bill Secord, Steve Jacoby, Dan Dienst, Mary Martin, and Glen Peterson on the topics:
1)Most significant Accomplishments; 2)Hartford as a Rising Star; and 3)role of The 4 Way Test in our lives. Answers were almost exclusively: 1)"Our Families;" 2)both positive and negative views of Hartford, on parking, crime, & Adrien's Landing progress; and, 3)feeling that corporate & government organizations don't practice it very much. Lots of good ideas for making it a part of our society's framework. All in all, good feelings about the meetings as most worthwhile to have done. Thanks, reporters!

Maker-uppers today:Chuck & Herb, Naples, FL (3); Frank & Ceil, Newark & Nashua; Don, Ft. Myers(2); Walt(1) and Jackie(3) Venice-Nokomis,FL; Marcia, on-line(2); Dan (Russell, that is), Glast; and the whole Golf Committee (once). Way to go, guys 'n gals!

Now, wasn't that great we could get together!..................................Arthur

HIGH GEAR for March 10, 2004

A happy crowd of about 175 Rotarians, their families and friends assembled this evening at the Marco Polo restaurant. Why? To celebrate the accomplishments of this year's recipients of the Paul Harris Fellow and Vocational Service Recognition. The East Hartford club does a lot of things really well, and one of these is to throw a party! With our President Neal Cunningham wielding the opening gong, Master of Ceremonies Tom Galvin behind the mike, and fancy-fingered Don Hallquist at the keyboard, it was readily apparent that this would be a night of fun and good fellowship. The invocation was offered by Art Bradbury, but prayer was also inadvertently provided by a waitress when she dumped a whole bowl of salad in the lap of Emcee Tom, and a nearby wag was heard to say "Lettuce pray!"

Guests were many on this night, and were welcomed in song by the whole club, led by librettist Tom Westbrook and a friend. Someone said that only half the club likes to sing, but that's hard to believe. Now, maybe some of us have a problem finding the notes, but the ones we sing are sung with gusto!

It would be impossible to capture the clever and witty introductions used by our presenters, Doug Willett, Moe Belanger, and George Stewart; you had to be there. Suffice it to say, the awardees and new Paul Harris Fellows Neal Cunningham, Loretta Dienst, and Dan Larson were soundly and royally recognized for their achievements in life as they have lived the Rotary motto "Service Above Self." We really needed a separate program just to keep track of all those children, siblings and friends who were introduced, but what a wonderful testimony to the fondness and respect which filled the room for these people! An additional Paul Harris Fellow Recognition had been made by Lucile Bailey in honor of nephew John McNaughton; what a nice thing to have done, Lucile! District Governor Jeff Tager was here to do the presentation of medallions, pins and certificates.

Although unable to be here in person, former E.H. Rotarian, a Paul Harris Fellow himself (and, of course, brother of Dan), U.S. Rep. John Larson sent along greetings, congratulations and commemorative plaques to the awardees. A classy touch!

Project Chairman Bill Secord presented the Vocational Service Award to Executive Director of the East Hartford Chamber of Commerce Mary Beth Reid. How fortunate our town is to have people of Mary Beth's caliber in roles of leadership!

The Sgt-At-Arms fittingly forgave fines on this occasion, and we were reminded that:
· The Golf Committee meets next Tuesday, Mar.16, Bill Saunders' home, 7:30.
· Co-hosts should be prepared to report on Fireside Chat discussions next week, Mar. 17th (and maybe you'd better wear something green), you're the program!

Evenings such as this do not just happen. They have to be planned, cared about, worried over, and "brought in" by someone with the talent for organization to get it done. And that person tonight was Roy Spiller. Well done, Roy, you did good!

And wasn't it great we could get together!
Arthur

Just like it's supposed to, the month of March was blustery at the Ridge, but warmer temps and sunny skies gave a strong clue that spring can't be too far off! Music Man Don Hallquist set the tone, as he always does, for a happy meeting, and Rev Rog Nicholson thanked the Lord for the talents and service of the assembled, combined as they are in the spirit of Rotary. The food we were thankful for was an open-faced turkey sandwich, with squash, gravy, and mixed veggies. Ginger-cake for dessert.

"Tex" Johnny Shemo, regaled us with western hat and music, signs of the BBBQ
(that's the Big BarBeCue) coming on April 3; collected some checks (it's not too early to pay at $50 per couple!) and we all tried to protect ourselves from "MuleTrainDriver" Danny Larson (where on earth did he learn to crack that whip?--is that how he keeps the Bros John and Tim in line?).

Men’s & Women’s UConn basketball (didja see Doug Willette peeking out from behind Diana's 2000 pointer BB at half time?) and the price of new cars (Skip sat with us) were table-topics today. A nice turnout and it was good to see some of our "snow- birds" returned from Florida, not all of them yet, though. Also, great to see Johnny Mozzicato back with us. He and Moe Belanger looked like a couple of bookends out in the hall while we were gathering.

Guests today: Only one, but that was John Clark from the Somers club, who told a sad tale of their project to raise big-time funds for an ailing member who needs a liver transplant. Help for this Rotarian, Don Kennett, can be forwarded to the Somers club at PO Box 2, Somers, CT 06071. Welcome Song was ably led by Ceil Collins.

Sgt. at Arms Jack Sayre reported only 2 birthdays, but for truly august Rotarians Pres. Neal Cunningham and Bob Wood. Both asked for, and got, silence.

Announcements:
" Golf Comm.- Tues, Mar.16, Bill Saunders home, 7:30. Mark those calendars!
" Bus trips to NYC for the show, "Mama Mia," and Bosox baseball, both canc.
" Sue Klock asked for FAX nos, from anyone wanting them on the club roster.
" Glen Peterson told of Heifer Project fund-raising at his magnet school; also, a forum on April 7 to be held at the Baccalaureate High School on Forbes St.
" Paper back book pick-up happening today. Big haul, a whole pick-up's worth!
New Member Todd Andrews, sponsored by John Shemo, was inducted today. A working compatriot of John's, Todd grew up in East Hartford, worked for a while on town grants with Mary Martin, and is enthusiastic about joining us. Welcome, Todd!

Program today featured EHHS's Interact Club. Our club's liaison, Steve Jacoby, introduced EHHS teacher and advisor, Midge Lenahan. Together with co-chairs Loren Gold and Jessica Balesano, they told of a very active group (core of about 25, but many more in non-sports time periods) who do things like:volunteering at Riverside Health Ctr., Soup Kitchen, tree planting (remember, they worked with us on Hillside Ave?), Food Share, Special Olympics, Thanksgiving baskets, and upcoming daffodil sales. Community Service is the name of the game, and these young people are really learning how. Congratulations on fine work!

Make-ups galore from our secretary: Frank & Ceil in Ft. Myers, Sarasota, Tom River, Washington (D.C., that is), Anaheim, and Evanston; Sayre, Summit, NJ; Saunders, No. Ft Myers (2); and Blackwood, Enfield. Good job, guys & gals!

Remember, no noon meeting next week...Paul Harris Dinner in the evening.
Nice we could get together..................................................................Arthur

HIGH GEAR for February 25, 2004

Back at the RIDGE, Pres. Neal opened our meeting and Mike Knepp invoked the blessings of the Almighty on our gathering. Today's meal in remembrance of Ash Wednesday was white fish, probably cod and very good. Attention food committee: People at our table thought it was good enough to have more often.

Guests: Art Bradbury introduced Mark S., a minister and Past President of a Minnesota club. Dan Dienst was awakened to introduce Leo Christmas who introduced Robert Grenus and Bob Brown introduced District President-Elect Dick Seidman who gave us a quick pep-talk. Pat Porteus led the Welcome Song, looking perky and alive, unlike some of her male song-leaders.

John Shemo a/k/a/ Johnny Dangerously a/k/a Ride 'Em Cowboy Johnny D. distributed more of those good looking invitations to the Texas Barbecue slated for April 3, 2004 starting at 6:00 P.M. in Cowboy Uniform. Sign up early!

Reminder - The Paul Harris dinner is set for March 10, 2004 at Marco Polo, probably 6 P.M. - sign up now and pay Roy Spiller next week.

Carol Krantz reminds of the Broadway trip on May 22nd . For those who wish to do the trip without the show, the bus trip ONLY will get you down and back for $30.00 per person.

Between President Neal and Leo Christmas, it was confirmed that the paperback books for overseas shipment to our Troops will be next week. Bring them with you

Sue Klock reminded everyone that if getting your High Gear by email is enough, we will stop the U.S.Mail delivery and save the cost, etc. Let Sue know.

SGT/ARMS Jack Ghagan announced a birthday for Dave Amberg and opined that if a horse was that old, you'd shoot him! Hmmmm. Sorry, Dave. Also anniversary donations to the Scholarship Fund from Carmen Piscatello and Gerry Brady (41st and 39th respectively). An anniversary for Dan Coulom. Also that John Mozzicato is getting out of the convalescent home this Friday (Yea for John!).

Roy Spiller auctioned off a large bottle of Crown Royal donated by George Agnelli. Leo Christmas paid $50.00 and took it home. President Neal said that raffling off liquor might be a good fundraiser. So, George, if every week or so you would bring in a king-sized bottle of Dewars or Stolichnaya or other good booze (your choice, George), Roy would surely be happy to do the auction and raise some more money for the Club for the Club, George! Is that okay, Pres. Neal? Did I get it right?

MAKE-UPS: Fireside Chats: Margaret Lacroix, Steve Jacoby, Art Bradbury, Carol Krantz, Dean Roland, George Schoen, Bob Wood, Peter Klock, Sue Klock (Steve Jacoby, Co-Host). WDOUG Willett (3) District Meeting, Fireside Chat, Niantic; Roy Spiller, Rockville; Steve Jacoby, Manchester; Lionel Lessard (2) Rockville-Vernon; Tom Galvin, Manchester. And Guess What? Chuck Clarke and Herb Tischofer, last making up in Naples, Italy, have at last returned to the U.S. of A. and now have three more make-ups - in Florida. Can you believe it? Naples, Florida! What a coincidence!

Marcia Leclerc introduced our speaker, Courtney Febbroriello, author of the recently published Wife of the Chef. Courtney and her husband have owned and operated Metro Bis in Simsbury since August 1998. She recounted a whole host of humorous and not-so-funny tales of life at Metro Bis. She is a charming, witty speaker who got many laughs telling her tales of the hysteria of running a restaurant.
GWB

HIGH GEAR for February 18, 2004

Our meeting today was at the South Congregational Church where once again we were blessed to have such a good place for an "away from home" meeting. One might suspect that one or possibly two of our members must be members of this Congregation in order for us to have this privilege.

Pres. Neal opened our meeting and Gil Wishart asked for the blessings of the Almighty on our gathering.

John Shemo a/k/a/ Johnny Dangerously a/k/a Ride 'Em Cowboy Johnny D. passed out 'er distributed some of the best-looking and cleverest invitations we have ever seen at Rotary. If you were not present at the meeting, call John and see if he has any extras to bring to the next meeting. The event, Texas Barbecue, will be on April 3, 2004 starting at 6:00 P.M. in some sort of Western (read that Cowboy) attire (but no horses or cows). Sign up early! Where, the Ridge? Try there first.

Reminder - The Paul Harris dinner is set for March 10, 2004 at Marco Polo, probably 6 P.M. - more later.

Bill Leone (subbing for Jack Ghagan) collected fines from Don Hallquist (a bad weather forecast ?); George Stewart paid $5.00 , since George Agnelli didn't charge him for "cleaning his clock"; Bill himself (34th Rotary Anniversary) and Bill noted today's special birthday event FOUR IN ONE DAY - For Don Cramer, Dan Russell, Dick McCarthy and John McNaughton. All but John McN. begged off the birthday song, but John McN. asked for the B-Song to be sung by all members present under 60. Believe it or not, there were nine singers who did a creditable job. At their ages, they should!

Pres. Neal and Leo Christmas announced that the paperbacks for overseas shipment will be picked up next week.

Hizzoner Herb Barall won the Raffle!

MAKE-UPS: Dick McCarthy (2 -Saratoga Sunrise, FL); Bill Saunders (N.Ft.Myers, FL); Dee Blackwood (2 -Enfield); Jim Watts (East Windsor) Also - David Holmes, Leo Christmas, Tom Westbrook, Bob Brown, Neal Cunningham and Mary Martin (Credit for meeting with Gazebo committee) - Also Roy Spiller, Jack Sayre, Dan Dienst, Dave Amberg, George Stewart, Bill Leone and Don Cramer (Fireside Chats). Also Dan Dienst paid a fine because his wife, Loretta, forgot to put his Rotary pin on his sweater. Oh Dear, Dear! This heartrending tale brought a veritable flood of tears in several parts of the room.
No news this week from our travelers in Italy. Maybe they're skipping or maybe the mail is slower by boat….

Twelve (12) dues are still outstanding.

When Pres. Neal needed a program, he knew whom to ask. PDG George Stewart gave us what amounted to a genial information discussion complete with a low-key test of our knowledge of Rotary and some important dates. It was fun, informative and different. Thanks to George, who never needs a script when it comes to Rotary.

GWB

Pres. Neal gonged us to order at the appointed time, and Dan Russell invoked the blessings of the Almighty on our gathering.

Pat Andrews was the guest of John Shemo. I believe there was one more outstanding guest who may have been introduced by an equally outstanding member Rotarian, but if that happened, I didn’t get it. But welcome our Guest(s) we did, under the stirring leadership of Mike Knepp. Stirring it was. Mike flapped his arms a lot, but that was all, since he didn’t know the music or the words! Time to fix that. How about a solo next week, Mike? Thanks to the Almighty again, this time for Don Hallquist.

SGT/ARMS Jack Ghagan announced a birthday for Sue Klock, and we sang for Sue. Also Dr. Tom Galvin had a 21^st Rotary anniversary – Larry Hangland celebrating birthdays of grandson and granddaughter - and Art Bradbury celebrating a new great grandson.

Bill Secord reminded us that if you can’t make the assigned Fireside Chat date, call Bill for a more convenient date (860-295-0725).

P.S. Our second guest turned out to be District President-Elect Dick Seidman, an old attorney friend of mine. I didn’t see him till I checked with President Neal after the meeting on what I should write about, our speaker having bombed out on us at the last minute. As far as what to write about, Pres. Neal didn’t give a hoot EXCEPT TO REMIND THE CLUB THAT THE MEETING NEXT WEEK IS AT THE SOUTH CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH!!!

Board of Directors - meeting at 7:00 P.M. Monday, February 16, 2004 at Dan Larson’s office, 111 Main Street, E.H.

Carol Krantz has 55 reserved first or third baseline grandstand tickets for sale for Red Sox-Yankees at Fenway Sept. 25^th ($105.00 per ticket and Red Sox-Phillies at Fenway June 26^th ($85.00 per ticket). She must sell all (or pay for them all anyway!). The catch is that anyone buying one or more tickets must buy a duplicate set for both games. A pretty good deal for sports fans and their kids, friends, etc. These are sellout games. The bus ride is included. She has to make a commitment and pay for them next week! So get your decision made now. Call Carol (860-633-0035) to reserve.

Art Bradbury announced that the Group Study Exchange Group will be arriving around April 30^th . We need host families for 5 people, the Rotarian leader and 4 non-Rotarians. Call Pres. Neal if you can volunteer as a host. The Club committed for the program, so…..

Peg and Roy Spiller are sponsoring a dinner on March 7^th for the 1^st Republican District (or was it 1^st Democrat District?) Regardless - they are great people no matter how they think! So call them for reservations!

MAKE-UPS: Tom Galvin (Manchester, CT. - 2); Jim Sheehan (Anna Marie Island, FL) and not one darn word from our friends in Italy – Walt Kupchunos (Venice) and Herb Tischofer and Chuck Clark (Naples). Hope they didn’t fall off a gondola or something.

HIGH GEAR for February 4, 2004

President Neal opened the meeting, calling upon George Schoen for a very thoughtful invocation. Chicken Cordon Bleu for lunch and chocolate cake squares for dessert.

No guests, but we sang anyway (to welcome ourselves with Don H. keeping us in tune - more or less - since I realized that two at my table had the words right but sang (?) an entirely different melody - Don can only do so much.).

SGT/ARMS Jack Ghagan reported reasonably strong winnings from Steve Tamiso, John Mozzicato and Jim Reik (birthdays) and Spurgeon Stokes, Roy Spiller and Andy Audreo (anniversaries).

President Neal announced:
1. Wine and cheese - on hold; date to be announced.
2. "Call list" needs some fine tuning; more to follow.
3. Ski trip next week for the "Schussers".
4. Art Auction February 28, 2004 at Marriott Hotel, Rocky Hill, $10.00/person.
5. Thanks from Town of East Hartford (Mary Martin) and Roy Spiller (Bell Ringers).
6. Darlene Roberts got her "real badge" - She's no longer a "newie".

Reports:
Bill Leone - a year end accounting for the Scholarship Funds:
Brewer fund - started with $20,000, not up to $20,312.36 (that does not take into account the large dip the fund took a year or two ago like everything else- The fund is back again over the base line!)
Scholarship Fund - now up to $124,660.81, a gain over last report of $17,917.04, thus keeping pace with the earnings of similar facilities.
Bill asked for a member volunteer to serve on the Investment Advisory Committee. Any takers? Bill needs the help of this committee, so give him a call if you can serve.

Bill Secord - reminded us of the Fireside Chat dates - February 10, 12, 16, 19, 23 and 26. The Host for each date Frank Collins, Margaret La Croix, Moe Belanger, Tom Galvin, Neal Cunningham and Dan Larson respectively. Check the chart and if you can't attend on your assigned date, call Bill S. (295-0725) and work out an alternate date. Bill also needs Vocational Service nominees by next meeting, February 11, 2004.

Pat Porteus introduced our speaker today on the subject of mental health, Heather MacDonald. Heather is both a patient and counselor in the program helping many people under the auspices of the Connecticut Mental Health Department. This was a presentation by a woman who truly "had the course" and is a believer - noting that 20 years ago, no one was recovering from mental illness - now up to 60% recover. The keys: Hope from the support of others; a place to go for help; work shops with other to gain strength and purpose; personal responsibility - only the patient really knows what's working in medications; recognition that people with mental health symptoms tend to isolate themselves. The support of others with problems and the counselors are critical to helping them get out of isolation, gain hope and support and improve. Heather said they always need volunteers for this non-profit organization, to help give the support, so as many as can recover are given the chance. Call Pat to make the contact if you're interested.

Heather quietly observed that most people are a little wacky anyway - One wag was overheard to mutter that she came to the right place to find a ton of examples. This was a surprisingly interesting presentation.

Make-ups: Steve Jacoby (2 - New Britain and Rutland, VT) how mundane! Lionel Lessard (2 Rockville) how mundane!) but now credit for our travelers to Italy; Walt Kupchunos (3 - Venice) and Herb Tischofer and Chuck Clarke (3 each - Bay of Naples). Wow! - Keep those cards coming from these overseas travelers!

GWB

Wednesday, January 21st, 2004-the third meeting of the new year

The day was bright and sunny, the temperature in the mid 20's, the breeze light, so that it felt almost balmy outside, especially when compared with some of our recent days. Following the ringing of the bell, the Rotary Song, the Salute to the Flag, Medallion-less President Neal offered a terse, but fitting, invocation. He was accosted almost immediately by a vigilant Bill Leone, Sergeant-at-Arms. Ah, yes, wine and cheese will be the order of the day soon-February 11th to be exact. We who have served as President have all been there, done that. The medallion really looked good on Neal after he fished it out of the depths of his briefcase.
Lunch menu: Krause's famous chicken pot pie, apparently a club favorite, accompanied by a tossed salad, and followed by a blueberry square topped with whipped cream. It was a delicious multi-calorie meal,
with many, many grams of fat.
Our only guest today was Stephanie Mauri, who works with Marcia Leclerc. Ceil Collins led us in the Welcome Song. Sergeant-at-Arms Bill Leone reported that there were many unidentified individuals today, including new member Mike Knepp, who pleaded that he'd never been given a badge. Bill went after person responsible for getting badges, but she'd already left. Hmmm. Money came in from John Mozzicato and Jack Ghagan, for a picture in the paper, from Glenn Peterson, in recognition of the Town Council's approval of the purchase of land for another magnet school. Dan Russell paid for a first wedding anniversary, and for another year of being officially cancer free. Roy Spiller paid $1 because the First District Democrats are honoring Peg and him as Volunteers of the Year. Would have paid more had it been the Republicans. Doug Willett mumbled something about a bigger fine, a lesser award. Doug Willett paid for a December birthday, Steve Jacoby paid for everyone under 55 to sing Happy Birthday to him, and Tom Westbrook paid very handsomely for the entire club to serenade him for the same reason. His new number is a significant one.
We will collect paperback books, to be sent to the troops overseas, on February 18th. The Mohican Sun trip has been canceled because of a lack of interest. There are still 14 seats available for the "Mama Mia" trip. Contact Carol Krantz. Bill Secord passed out Fireside Chat assignments and schedules: February 10, 12, 16, 19, 23, and 26. He needs a co-host for each group: volunteer. President Neal said that we'd had a holiday greeting card and a note of thanks from Anna, one of our scholarship recipients who is doing A- work at George Washington University. When she's home she works part time for George Agnelli. The Board met Monday evening. Funds have been donated to Interval House ($250) and the Lavender Hill Project in South Africa ($500). The raffle was won by Doug Willett who quietly turned the money back to the club.
Marcia Leclerc introduced our speaker, Eileen Faust, Senior Citizens Program Supervisor. In some ways it seemed that Eileen was preaching to the choir. We have two senior centers in East Hartford for our 13,000 senior citizens. We have the largest percentage of seniors, population-wise, of all the towns immediately surrounding Hartford. Our Department of Social Services wants to help us oldsters to live our lives as healthily as possible for as long as possible. Sounds good. Eileen handed out copies of the monthly newsletter, the "Golden Ager" and also copies of the department's Service Directory. She noted that it is less costly for the State of Connecticut to keep people in their homes rather than in a nursing home. Falls are a major concern for the elderly; 50% of them are preventable. A recently formed group, Friends of Senior Centers, is headed by Marcia Leclerc. It raises funds and seeks grants to supplement the fund which the department already gets from the town. Some of our club expertise may be called upon in the future. Eventually a new combined senior center, purpose built, rather than a couple of old schools, would be desirable. Eileen gave us a concise, short presentation.
We closed with one verse of America the Beautiful. Makeups: Frank and Ceil Collins: Enfield, Connecticut, and Cambridge, Maryland. It was good to be together.

------ Dan Russell

HIGH GEAR for January 14, 2004 - the second meeting of the new year

If it were not for the blue sky and bright sunshine, today could have been considered Eskimo weather-the outside temperature reading was about 6 degrees. Inside, warmth and conviviality. Reverend Ted Mosebach offered the invocation, asking that we count our many blessings. Lunch was a mini-banquet-roast beef, roasted potatoes, mixed vegetables and chocolate cake. Need many calories to keep warm!
Sue Klock distributed new rosters-not easy to keep abreast of those pesky typos. Perhaps this will become a weekly happening. Corrections to last weeks High Gear: the Broadway Trip for "Mama Mia" is May 22nd, the Paul Harris Awards Dinner is March 10th, and the District Conference is probably late April rather than early May, although the current DG's newsletter doesn't seem to pinpoint the date, based on a skimming scan.
This editor noticed that Don Cramer, who owns a home in Florida, was in attendance. Report was that he was on his way to Maine. Apparently deep cold affects some individuals peculiarly.
Only guest: Reverend Ron Cox, member of the Rocky Hill-Wethersfield Club, a Paul Harris Fellow.   Tom Galvin led in the Welcome Song, in a manner befitting the personality of an extrovert extraordinaire. Jack Sayre was Sergeant-at-Arms: He collected from Dave Amberg because Notre Dame won ($1, not very much), from Dan Firestone for a $33rd anniversary, from Bill Saunders who said that he and his wife were in the centerfold of Sports Illustrated (have to get a haircut to see that), a buck from Dave Holmes for guilt, and $5 Happy Dollars from Tom Galvin because Leo Christmas didn't do any work on the Governor's cottage.
Announcements for the good of the Club: We received a letter of thanks for working a water station for the Greater Hartford Marathon, which has been picked by one of the Runners' Magazines as the Marathon of the Year in New England. Fireside Chats will be held in February, the format has been streamlined (no long autobiographies), no evening is a basketball evening.   We need three more sponsors for meeting sites. Jim Fallon announced that Melody Currey, an outstanding woman and one of our State Legislators, is home recuperating from surgery. The idea of collecting paperback books for shipment overseas to service personnel, as announced by Leo Christmas last week, has had a good step forward. Lieutenant Governor Jody Rell has arranged for shipping "stuff" - it just needs to be dropped off at the State Armory. We'll coordinate our stuff, get it to the Ridge. Ceil Collins suggested that we get an announcement on Community Television, with a collection date. Sign-up sheets for the Broadway Show "Mama Mia" and the Casino were circulated.
Jim Fallon introduced our speakers, Mitsey Baker, Penny Brice and Scott Chadwick, all representing the School-Business Partnership. We heard a lot of statistics and history. The Partnership has grown out of a getting together of the Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Education, hoping to better prepare students for the after school, after graduation workforce.   The Partnership, which now has tax exempt status, injects business people into the lives and classrooms of students, beginning with the fourth grade. The kids learn what various professions are all about, and some of them end up, as high school students, doing internships with some major corporations.   Involvement opportunities include Community Day and Career Day. The Partnership, which was presented with a $14,000 Rotary Grant, is planning to develop a school wide speakers bureau data base, to be used as a resource for our entire school system. Volunteer, and you could find yourself for a couple of hours talking about and fielding questions regarding your own area of expertise in front of a group of school kids. That could be very rewarding. Other facets of the School Business Partnership include a mentoring program, grants to teachers for special programs not covered by the Board of Education budget, and coordination of a Community Day to be held at Pratt & Whitney. This program is one way of changing the lives of our town's children, for the better, significantly. Our support is well placed. Apparently other towns have similar programs, but ours, having received national recognition, is considered one of the best.
Make-ups: Skip Guillemette at Manchester, Jorge Gonzalez at Enfield, Frank and Ceil Collins, Nashua, New Hampshire (New England PETS) and Cooperstown, New York, an 80th Anniversary Celebration.
Good to be together.
-------- Dan Russell

HIGH GEAR for January 7, 2004 -the first meeting of the new year

Well, it's been just about eight months since this editor sat at the inputting keyboard to make a matter of record the matters of the meeting of this day. It seemed like the first day of winter, in some ways, since the temperature was well below freezing and the wind was sharp, all in much contrast to the unseasonable weather which we have been enjoying. President Neal rang the first bell of the new year, we came to order, and, following the usual singing and pledge to the flag, Roger Nicholson offered a fitting invocation, ending with plea for a blessing on the cause of Rotary.
Today's menu: a salad of mixed greens, including slightly frozen iceberg lettuce, over which had been doused an authoritative Italian style dressing. The main course was penne with a spicy tomato sauce (John McNaughton dubbed it risqu¾) with generous chunks of hot Italian sausage. Dessert was an apple-raisin concoction under filo pastry and whipped cream. It all went well with the weather.
President Neal moved things along expeditiously, ringing the bell again before spoons had hardly touched the whipped cream. Guests: Major Ron Freiert of Huntingdon, Virginia, father-in-law of our own Michael Knepp. The welcome song was led by Jim Watts.
Smiling Bill Leone is our Sergeant-at-Arms for the month. Those attorneys really like to extract dollars from any source. Sue Klock paid for a whole series of typographic, gremlinesque driven errors in the latest Club Directory-she promised that it would be brought up to date very soon, with correct email addresses. She truly has done a wonderful job; proofreading is almost a lost skill. Dan Coulom paid for a disclaimer that he had nothing to do with the explosion at United Technologies. Four anniversaries: Don Hallquist, 39 years, Moe Belanger, 35 years, Peter Klock, 14 years, George Stewart, 40 years of perfect attendance. Birthdays: Jim Shay, Nick Cecere--they requested a serenade by Table #1. They could have gotten better music for less money. And Bill fined three members, one a banker, one an attorney, one just inattentive, who are not yet aware of which year this is. The raffle was won by Dick McCarthy.
Today was a club assembly, replete with questions, comments and suggestions from the floor. These will be reported more or less in the order in which they occurred.
Leo Christmas announced that his wife is involved with a project to collect paperback books for sending overseas to our troops. Books and transportation and packing assistance needed.
The Scholarship Committee will give its annual report when the numbers from the financial institutions become available.
Mary Martin reported that bids have been received on the gazebo. Both were well under the town's budgeted amount of $37,200. The lowest bid, $20,090, is being reviewed for compliance with the bid plans and specifications.
Upcoming events:
Mohegan Sun, Friday, January 30th: 5:30 PM bus from the Ridge, returning about midnight. Cost: $16 per person. This cost includes a $20 credit at the casino. Dan Larson wanted to know if we could just take the money and not go.
International Night: a barbecue, April 3rd.
Broadway Show: May 22nd, matinée, "Mama Mia," center orchestra seats, $130 per person, bus leaves 7:30 AM from East Hartford, only 54 tickets available, $25 deposit needed ASAP. Carol Krantz is the person to contact, and will collect the money.
Paul Harris Awards Night: March 10th.
Fireside Chats: during the month of February, times and places to be announced.
District Conference will be April 23-25 in Saratoga Springs, NY.
Group Study Exchange Teams: two will be in the district, mid April to mid May. Interested in hosting a team member? Let Neal know. We are not committed to a week as yet.
Family of Rotary: a new mandatory committee, designed to involve more persons in our purposes. East Hartford already does what the committee will be designed to accomplish. All that is needed is a chairperson.
Baseball: Carol Krantz has two possible Red Sox -Yankee games, July and September. Express your interest.
Bluebird Houses: want to build some? Kits are available from the State of Connecticut. This will be referred to the new Family of Rotary Committee.
International Project: the Board has committed to contributing to the College in South Africa, subject of a program a number of months ago. Others ideas might be discussed at Fireside Chats.
The January 19th Board Meeting will be at the home of Margaret LaCroix, since the Cultural Center will be closed.
President Neal read two notes of appreciation, from our wait staff, for the Christmas checks. We ended the meeting at 1: 15 PM. Makeups: Roy Spiller and Michael Knepp, Rockville; Frank and Ceil Collins: Tom River, New Jersey, Pasadena, California (2) and Newton, Connecticut.

The December 31, 2003, meeting was called to order by President Neal Cunningham. Although the calendar said it was New Year’s Eve, the weather was more like spring.

Dave Amberg led a rather small crowd in prayer. Lunch was a delicious open-faced turkey sandwich, coleslaw, mashed potatoes, pound cake and sherbet. All was preceded by a wine and cheese reception.

Guests were Charlotte Bradbury and Jay Stewart, who where welcomed by Pat Porteus’ enthusiastic rendition of the welcome song.

John Mozzicato was welcomed back with cheers. He expressed heartfelt thanks for all the support during his illness. He shared that people at the hospital thought he was some politician with all the cards he received!

Sergeant-at-Arms Marcia LeClerc was gentle today but did fine John Mozzicato for returning to Rotary. Dan Larson will soon be a grandpa for the first time, Larry Churchill was in the New York Times and George Agnelli thought he might have been seen at the UConn game.

Roy Spiller thanked the 46 Rotarians who signed up to ring the bell for the Salvation Army. The amount raised was down this year because of a Saturday snowstorm. Some was made up with ringing on two Fridays. $2935 was raised this year, down $735 from last year. The 55 hours of ringing averaged $53.36 per hour. Ringers also included 12 non-Rotarians. Jack Sayre signed up to ring five times! The 15-year-total is $36,274 and 904 hours. Next year, we will ring at the east entrance to Stop and Shop and at the Silver Lane Shop Rite.

Last Calls

Mark Your Calendar

The Paul Harris Dinner is scheduled for March 10, 2004 at the Marco Polo. More details will follow.

Special thanks to Sue and Helen from Krause Catering. A check was presented to both.

The December 17, 2003 meeting was called to order by President Neal Cunningham. Dan Firestone gave his annual holiday prayer. Lunch was a lovely buffet complete with ham, turkey and lasagna. Holiday roll was the dessert.

The welcome song was led by Walt Kupchunos, as we welcomed Stephanie Mauri, Tom Blackwood, Bob Dugger (Glastonbury Rotary) Jan Sayre and Todd Andrews.

Sergeant-At-Arms Report

Marcia LeClerc reported a number of anniversaries, including Jack Sayre’s 23 years, Don Cramer’s 25 years, Jim Fallon and Dee Blackwood each at 11 years and Jim Shay at 10 years. Birthdays were celebrated by Dan Larson and Walt Kupchunos.

Dan Firestone (president elect) announced that Bill Secord is the Sergeant-At-Arms representative for the 2004-05 Board of Directors.

President’s Report

President Neal announced that e-mail addresses would now be published with the address/telephone number list. For those who wish to opt out of having their e-mail address included, please see Sue Klock.*

$137 was raised for the Rotary International Rose Parade float which will feature our own Frank and Ceil Collins. Thanks to all who contributed.

Carol Krantz reported that about $1900 was raised in the fruit sale. About 50 percent of the club participated and sold 450 cases. The highest seller was George Agnelli with 46 cases. Thanks to all who sold and loaded fruit.

Jim Fallon introduced the East Hartford High School students from the Chamber Orchestra and Next Edition who provided a heartwarming performance. Always a special treat.

The December 10, 2003 meeting was called to order by President Neal. Gil Wishart provided a thoughtful prayer and we were treated to lunch of Swedish meatballs, mashed potatoes, carrots and bread pudding for dessert. Thanks to the talents of Don Hallquist, Christmas carols permeated the room.

Sergeant-At-Arms Report
Marcia LeClerc reported that Larry Frazier paid for having a new granddaughter and John Shemo was on the Brad Davis Show. Carol Krantz, Bill Saunders and Jackie Danise celebrated birthdays.

Medical Report
John Mozzicato is home!

Steve Jacoby reported that the Holiday Fest activities were postponed by the snowstorm and will be rescheduled, including the police identification program on April 3, 2004.

The East Hartford YMCA invites Rotarians to a holiday luncheon on December 13 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at South Congregational Church. Please bring non-perishable food items if you attend.

George Stewart won the raffle.

Carol Krantz reported that fruit sales were disappointing. Pick up is scheduled for Saturday, December 13, 2003 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. behind the old Dunkin Donuts (Nathan's) in the Putnam Plaza.

Make-Ups: Herb Tischoffer- Naples Bay; Don Cramer-eClub; Frank and Ceil Collins- Troy and Rochester, NY; Lugano. Switzerland; Houston, TX; and Cairo, Egypt.

Bill Saunders asked flu hotline volunteers to consider volunteering in December in light of the current Flu Frenzy.

From Bill and Bev Saunders
Our thanks to the Club for the cards, phone calls and expressions of sympathy in the loss of my mother.

The annual meeting of the Rotary Club of East Hartford followed. The following slate was adopted for next year: (Complete minutes of the annual meeting will be filed separately)
Dan Firestone President
Carol Krantz President-elect
Dan Larson Secretary
Bill Saunders Treasurer
Sue Klock Director
Margaret LaCroix Director
George Schoen Director

Don't miss the holiday program next week.

Margaret LaCroix

December 3, 2003 was frosty outside but friendship and good will warmed the holiday party. 98 Rotarians and significant others joined in the festivities which included shrimp, chicken and prime rib dinners topped off with ice cream roll. The music was somewhat of a topic, as Don Hallquist's battery was not charged for his keyboard. Nonetheless, we thank him for always sharing his time and talent to make our meetings and parties more festive!

Rev. Roger Nicholson led us in prayer. Marcia LeClerc noted there would not be a sergeant-at-arms report in the spirit of the holiday.

John Mozzicato was missed at the event, but not to worry, he is expected to be home next week although he still has some recovering to do.

Roy Spiller announced the 2003-04 Paul Harris Award Winners:
Neal Cunningham
Dan Larson
Loretta Dienst
Congratulations to all!

Spiller also asked for volunteers for ringing the bell for the Salvation Army for December 20 from 3:00 to 6:00 pm.

There are rooms available for the annual ski trip on February 9 to 11, 2004. Call Roy Spiller for details.

President Neal thanked all Rotarians and their family and friends who worked the concession stand this past football season.

A Jeep-load of necessary items was collected at the party for donation to the East Hartford Homeless Shelter. Thanks to all!

Special Note:
Notice is hereby given that the annual meeting of the Rotary Club of East Hartford will be held on Wednesday, December 10, 2003 at 12:15 pm. at the Veteran's Memorial Clubhouse for the purpose of electing officers and directors and for such other business as may legally come before the meeting.

Health Alert
The flu has hit Connecticut. It is not too late to protect yourself from what may be a very bad strain of flu. Call the American Lung Association of CT flu hotline at 1-888-NO TO FLU to find a clinic near you. Also, if you are a flu hotline volunteer, please consider signing up for time slots in December. The hotline is very busy. Thanks!

HIGH GEAR for November 26, 2003

A wonderful Fall day -weather, fellowship, and seasonal Thankfulness- greeted us as we entered the Ridge for our annual Thanksgiving meeting. Dean Rowland and Kathy McCabe presented us with a bountiful table of wine, cheeses, crackers, fruit, and pepperoni. What more could you ask for!!!!!! Don Hallquist highlighted our entrance to the main dining room with the great seasonal hymn "We gather together to ask the Lord's Blessing". How appropriate for our great club. Thanks. Don! Pres. Neal called us to order, and the Rev. Bill Flynn gave us a thoughtful invocation in which he thanked our Lord for all our gifts, and asked that we show gratitude through the services we can provide. A tasty meal of Chicken Cordon Bleu, sweet potatoes and apple, green beans, and chocolate mousse, was promptly served.

Upon reconvening the meeting, Pres. Neal asked for the introduction of guests. Several guests were introduced with most notable being former member Rich O'Brien, and Dan Larson's daughter, Debby, a junior at the University of Connecticut's School of Education. Dan referred to Debby as the family athlete as she was South Windsor's female athlete of the year in her senior year in high school. The Welcome Song was aptly led by Nick Cecere with Don at the keyboard. Sgt at Arms fill in, Dan Larson reported only two fines, both Rotary anniversaries - George Schoen and Bob Richmond.

The following were the announcements for the day!!
1. Dan Larson asked for help on the 13th for the fruit distribution. Call him if you can help. Also, next Wednesday will be the last day for fruit orders. Send them to or call Carol Krantz.
2. Frank Collins got off the Phone with our Rotary International President at 12:10 PM. He wished our club a Happy Thanksgiving.
3. Dick McCarthy announced that Bill Saunder's Mom passed away in Johnsonburg, Pennsylvania, on Monday. Services will be held this weekend in Pa., and Bill will be with us next Wednesday.
4. Jack Ghagan reported on John Mozzicato's well being. He is progressing and hopes to be out of The Glastonbury Health Center sometime next week. His room # is 200, and his phone # is 652-4956.
5. Pres. Neal reported that he had received two thank-you notes for Rotary gifts, one from the American Lung Association for a gift of $500, and the other from Riverfront Recapture for $250. He also announced that we received about $5000 for our efforts at the football concession stand.
6. Just a reminder that our Holiday party in next Wednesday evening at Adams Mill. Our charity of choice is gifts for the residents the homeless shelter in East Hartford.
7. And finally - the raffle was won by Larry Churchill - who else has a chance??

Jim Fallon introduced our Thanksgiving Speaker, The Reverend Ted Mosebach. Jim introduced Ted as someone who truly cares about East Hartford. Ted started his talk on a very light vein with several stories from the far distant past!!! He then quoted the 100th Psalm "Make a Joyful noise unto the Lord! Give thanks to him for the Lord is good and his steadfast love lasts forever." He talked about the opposite of "Thanksgiving" which would probably be "complaining". There might be a lot to complain about, but when put in its proper perspective, we should be thankful for all we have. We might pay high taxes, but these enable us to live in the greatest country in the world. We should all be thankful for what we have - family. friends, our home, our community, and all else we enjoy in this time and place!

Happy Thanksgiving -Enjoy, and count your blessings.

Bob Wood - filling in for Bill Secord

Outside, the drizzle and chill of mid-fall; inside, sweetness and light. The fellowship of Rotary easily overcame the pre-winter gloom as Roger Nicholson gave thanks for the opportunities Rotary provides us for service above self. A hardy lunch of stuffed chicken breast, creamed cauliflower, and mashed potatoes culminated with bowls of rice pudding. Chuck Clarke introduced guest Pat Danehy, while George Agnelli withstood withering skepticism of his crooning ability to lead a rousing rendition of the Welcome Song. Sergeant-at-Arms Dan Dienst recited a litany of fines for the day: Dan Russell paid for yet another new car. We sang the birthday song for what might have been Staci Brazalovich’s 21^st birthday. Glenn Peterson paid for nine years of wedded bliss. Steve Bates paid for a surprising Giant’s touchdown. Scotty Howat contributed $1.00 a year for all 84 of his youth. Dave Amber paid for his picture in The Habitat News. And Jim Fallon secretly slipped Dan a dollar for a similar transgression (he tries to keep out of the newspapers).

Jack Ghagan provided the club with an update on John Mozzicato. John has had something of a setback and is undergoing surgery again today; but he greatly appreciates the outpouring of friendship he has received from members of the club. After today he can be visited at the Glastonbury Health Care Center, 1175 Hebron Avenue, Room 273b, phone 860-659-6262.

Many make-ups: Dee Blackwood at Enfield; Don Cramer at Fort Myers Beach; Skip Guillemette at some anonymous club with a forged signature; and Jim Sheehan, Neal Cunningham, and Steve Jacoby at the Rotary Foundation dinner. President Neal won the raffle—which prize he magnanimously turned over to Michael Knepp for the Salvation Army. Steve Jacoby reminded everyone of the need for volunteers to help run the upcoming children identification booth—more details coming. Next week is our traditional Thanksgiving Rotary meeting—wine and cheese provided beforehand.

Margaret LaCroix again reminded us of the Rotary Holiday Party—Wednesday, December 3, at Adam’s Mill. Cocktails at 6 pm; dinner at 7 pm. Everyone must pay Margaret in advance—no payment at the door. She will not be present at next week’s regular meeting, so checks should be sent to: Margaret LaCroix at 115 Hawthorne Mead Drive, Glastonbury, CT 06033. Please make checks out to the East Hartford Rotary Club. Dinner choices are chicken stuffed with broccoli and cheddar cheese, baked stuffed shrimp, or prime rib. The cost is $37.50—which includes wine at the tables. The charity supported by the holiday party this year is the East Hartford homeless shelter. We should consider taking gifts of the following type for our donations: toiletries; bath robes; slippers; gift certificates in small denominations for such establishments as CVS, Target, McDonald’s, or Big Y; disposable diapers; school supplies; sanitary napkins/tampons; pajamas; or the traditional toys.

Program: Jim Fallon did NOT introduce our speaker, Dr. Tom Galvin. It remains unclear if that irregularity had been secretly manipulated by Past President Tom or not. Dr. Tom brought the club up to speed on “progress” in dental medicine over the past ten years. His theme—“It’s a different world.” Some of the latest research has linked gum disease to heart disease, a promising discovery that might lead to more effective treatment of heart disease and arteriosclerosis. As medications proliferate throughout an older population, it has become more difficult to keep track of possible medical interactions and the need for precautions during office treatments. New amalgams for fillings have reduced the use of mercury, but as a result fillings have become less durable. Dr. Tom offered his own mental stability as proof that mercury had probably not been that dangerous (except in waste water—don’t ask). Dental cosmetics such as bleaching and veneers have become popular, although insurance still does not pay for such treatments.

UConn’s dental school stands #1 academically and is comparatively reasonably priced ($25,000 a year for four years compared to $60,000 a year for a school like Tufts). But the number of dentists coming out of dental school is falling, partly due to the closing of schools such as Georgetown, Marquette, and Loyola (what do the Jesuits have against pretty teeth?). Also, dentists are bailing out of primary care and are going into specialties. There has been an exceptional increase in the number of women going into dentistry (35-45% at UConn), and that phenomenon might exasperate a shortage in dental care as some women choose to practice part time while they raise families. The startup costs for a dental practice can be prohibitive—$400,000 to set up, while at the same time carrying $250,000 in student loans. Insurance is not as much of a problem in dentistry as it is in general medicine. But “HIPAA” fines can be very steep. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act sets up strict regulations around the handling of medical records. This regulation increases the difficulty of maintaining proper paperwork.

Finally, the biggest change over the past number of years has been the overall reduction in tooth decay. But as this generation of children drink more “yuppie” water (from Maine?) and get less fluoride, cavities have been making a comeback! Would Dr. Tom do it all again? Only if he could get a license this time.

Through the French doors, the Paul Harris nominating committee looked everything like the Knights of King Arthur’s Round Table as they held a pre-meeting in the “Sun Room.” After they emerged, Don Hallquist played a jazz version of “Over the River and Through the Woods” while we waited for the bell to ring. Ted Mosebach offered our prayer of thanksgiving. Lunch consisted of breaded fish fillet, peas (which Don Hallquist refuses to eat even if he can’t get dessert afterwards), and a medley of rices. We saved our forks for the pumpkin pie dessert. Except for our speaker of the day, there were no guests. Don Cramer completed a make-up in his regular Fort Myers Beach retreat.

Margaret LaCroix reminded us that the Rotary Holiday Party is scheduled for Wednesday, December 3, at Adam’s Mill—6:00 pm cocktails, 7 pm dinner. Everyone who plans to go must pay Margaret in advance—no payment at the door. Dinner choices are chicken stuffed with broccoli and cheddar cheese, baked stuffed shrimp, or prime rib. The cost is $37.50—which includes wine at the tables. You may send your checks to Margaret at 115 Hawthorne Mead Drive, Glastonbury, CT 06033. Please make checks out to the East Hartford Rotary Club (Margaret has enough beautiful dresses). The charity supported by the holiday party this year is the East Hartford homeless shelter. We should consider taking gifts of the following type for our donations: toiletries; bath robes; slippers; gift certificates in small denominations for such establishments as CVS, Target, McDonald’s, or Big Y; disposable diapers; school supplies; sanitary napkins/tampons; pajamas; or the traditional toys.

A collection envelop made its way around the tables for donations for the Rotary float at the annual Rose Bowl parade. This year’s parade is special for East Hartford because our own Frank and Ceil Collins will be riding up top! An impromptu pool has been formed regarding what kind of flowers Frank and Ceil will be dressed as. Sergeant-at-arms Carol Krantz cited Dan Coulom for being quoted in the paper; George Agnelli for the birth of his granddaughter, Olivia Ruth Agnelli; Marcia LeClerc for being elected to the town council; and Dan Russell for his grandson’s state soccer championship. Dan Frazier, Jim Sheehan, and Hyacinth Douglas-Bailey paid for their birthdays.

President Neal formally inducted Michael Knepp as a new member of the East Harford Rotary Club. Mike, director of our regional Salvation Army chapter and a former member of Rotary in New York State, thanked the club and commented on how impressed he has been by this club’s level of commitment to community service. Roy Spiller is accepting early sign-ups for the one-hour turns at ringing the Salvation Army Christmas bells—and absent names will be noted. President Neal reported the reception of thank-you letters—one from the Summer Youth Festival and one from Mayor Larson for our participation in Rebuilding Together. Herb Barall won the raffle. Carol Krantz reminded us that citrus fruit orders are due by December 3 (the night of the holiday party) and that delivery will be on December 13. Those individuals not wishing to sell fruit may make a donation of $50.00 instead.

President Neal also announced the reception of a remarkable gift from the estate of Dick Olmsted. Dick left the East Hartford Rotary Club $15,000 in his will. Bill Leone has recommended that instead of putting the money in the general fund, we name a permanent scholarship after Dick.

Spurge Stokes reported on our concession stand at Rentschler Field. He was able to turn over $355 in tips directly to President Neal (only because Carol Krantz had charged an extra $2.00 for every beer when she was working). Spurge thanked Rosemary Hogan especially for working early and late every week helping to keep track of the inventory, and he thanked Jay Stewart and Charlotte Bradbury for working the last game and providing us with the needed 18 people. He gave a breakdown of the number of people who had worked multiple games:

Program: Jim Fallon introduced our speaker, the president of Manchester Community College, Jonathan Daube. Dr. Daube delivered an entertaining and informative talk on the importance of community colleges in today’s marketplace and on the remarkable quality of the education provided at Manchester Community College. He invited everyone to visit the beautifully reconstructed and extremely active campus at any time. The community college system in Connecticut presently serves 12,000 students. East Hartford especially benefits from the new “middle college” program for high school students. Over a thousand East Hartford residents are presently taking courses at MCC, 38 of the courses being given in East Hartford’s Community Cultural Center. MCC is the only college in Connecticut besides Yale that has received the prestigious “Truman Presidential Award.”

A wet, dreary Fall day outside, but a full, boisterous group within the welcoming back ambience of the Ridge. Our President demonstrated his adaptability today by quickly overcoming the challenges of a microphone on the fritz and the lack of a High Gear editor and a Sergeant At Arms. Substitutes were immediately volunteered by the Prez!

A busy day all around with many announcements.
" Johnny Moe is slated for extensive surgery Thursday morning at Hartford Hospital to be followed by up to three months of convalescence at a location to be determined. For now he can be reached at 545-3867 on the 6th Floor, Conklin Building, Hartford Hospital. He is reported to be in good spirits prior to surgery and would welcome cards and calls.
" Scotty Howat had successful gall bladder surgery and is recovering at home. Calls and cards to Scotty and Nurse Ann at 403 West Center Street, Apt. 401, Manchester, 06040 would be welcome.
" The 2003 East Hartford Holiday Fest is holding a kick-off party on November 13 at the Holiday Inn, 363 Roberts Street from 5-7 p.m.. Please RSVP your attendance to the E. H. Chamber at 289-0239.
" Our Annual Holiday Party will be held at Adam's Mill on Wednesday, December 3 with cocktails at 6 p.m. The tariff is $37.50 per person. You can mail your check to Margaret LaCroix, 115 Hawthorne Mead Drive, Glastonbury, 06033. Payments will NOT be allowed at the door!
" The Nominating Committee is hard at work putting together a slate for the 2004-2005 Rotary year. If you have any interest in being considered for Board positions, contact Bob Richmond or Scottie Howat by November 17.
" Meeting of the Paul Harris Committee at 11 a.m. next Wednesday, November 12. All nominations must be received by Jim Watts prior to that date. You can find forms on our Rotary web site.
" Contributions for the Rotary Float in the Rose Parade will be collected next week. Rumor has it that Frank Collins will be covered with roses and propped up among several beauty queens at the apex of the Float pyramid. The sight could be well worth the $2 per Rotarian being solicited.
" Sue Klock passed out new rosters with several corrections from previous issue. See Sue if you need additional copies. Dee Blackwood's business phone number was listed incorrectly. The correct number is: (860) 749-1515.
" Carol Krantz passed out Citrus Sale forms to all. She encouraged an active effort to sell the California oranges and Florida grapefruit but offered an "out" for those reluctant to do so. A fifty dollar donation or $5 for each unsold case up to 10 cases would do it. Your choice.

Acting Sergeant At Arms Krantz reported a birthday for Art Bradbury and 27th Rotary anniversary for Dick Lemieux.. Makeups from snow birds Tischofer and Cramer as well as three more from the globe trotting Collins duo. Our speaker was PDG Bob MacDonald who gave an interesting presentation on Rotary's Committee on Legislation. That's all the room I have for today. (Secord, read the High Gear roster before next week!) Pinch hitting, this is Aaron Boone…uh, WDOUGW.

A truly lousy day was brightened considerably when we entered South Church to hear Don Hallquist playing lively tunes on the church's piano! Thanks, Don, for your great contribution to our club! It makes a difference. Pres. Neal brought us all together and Rev. Bill Flynn gave the invocation asking us to live a life of good will and peace in keeping with the spirit of Rotary. We took a moment of silence in support of the Spiller's Daughter Margaret, who is undergoing surgery today. A tasty meal of chicken stuffed with broccoli, mashed potatoes, squash and fruited Jello followed our opening ceremonies.

Calling the meeting back to order, Pres. Neal asked for the introduction of guests. Keith Griffith of the West Hartford Club was introduced and asked our members to support a Rotary fund raiser - Cow Chip Bingo. Roy Spiller introduced his grandson, Seth Brooks who is home from the Air Force. Margaret (or is it Martha) Lacroix led us in the Welcome Song.

The Following were the announcements for the day!
1. Jim Watts again announced that Paul Harris nomination forms are available from him or on the EH Rotary Web site. Get nominations to Jim before our Paul Harris selection meeting scheduled for November 12th, 11:00 A.M. at the Ridge.
2. Carol Krantz announced that the citrus sale will begin next week and pick up is scheduled for December 13th at Andy's Parking lot.
3. Sue Klock reminded us of our club's web site -EHROTARY.ORG!! Use it, you will find much interesting information, not the least of which is information on the Foundation Dinner scheduled for November 15th.
4. Bill Saunders gave a preliminary report on the success of the Golf Tournament. He noted 123 golfers, 90 sponsors, and a great raffle. It looks as if we will have a profit of about $23,000. Great job -Bill and the golf committee. Some of the profits will go to support the East Hartford School Business partnership.
5. Spurgeon announced that we need more workers for the game on November 8th. Do your part - call Gil Wishart and let him know that you will be able to work that date. It's the last one - so please help out!!
6. Next week we will be "back Home" at the Ridge!

Sgt at Arms Dan Dienst reported the following anniversaries: Bill Flynn - 25, Jim Sheehan - 19, Kathy McCabe -10, and Hyacinth Douglas-Bailey - 1. All gave generously. The Raffle was won by Bill Flynn who is leaving for Florida this weekend. Keep in touch, Bill! There being no speaker we sang one verse of America and were sent on our way. The following is a list of make ups-nice going - keep them coming. Frank and Ceil Collins - 5 - Official visits in Florida: Frank Collins - Evanston; Chuck Clarke and Lionel Lessard - Rockville; Jack Sayre - Summit, NJ; Don Cramer - Ft. Meyers; Tom Gallvin and Margaret LaCroix - On Line: and the following concessionaires - 10/25/03 - Larry Churchill, Dan Coulom, Neal Cunningham, Dan Firestone, Bindu Sidhu, Roy Spiller, Spurgeon Stokes, Bill Saunders, Steve Tamiso, Mary Martin, Kathy McCabe, Mo Moshovos, Bill Secord, Carol Krantz, and Steve Jacoby..

That's all folks - Bob Wood

A truly damp, cold day with the promise of some snow flurries greeted our Rotarians as they entered our temporary meeting place at South Congregational Church. It was warm in spirit once we were in the hall. Spurgeon was trying to locate the raffle tickets while at the same time recruiting workers for Saturday's Uconn game, and Dan Larson quietly sat by and collected the lunch money. Pres. Neal called us together and Rev. Roger gave the Invocation and asked us to keep in mind "the cause and vision of Rotary." A luncheon