Greetings to this week’s readers of High Gear, Rotary Club of East Hartford. This week’s meeting at the Veteran’s Memorial Clubhouse was held under sunny and warm skies. George Agnelli arrived with his hair blowing in the breeze as he enjoyed his Mustang Convertible. Upon my arrival the Golf Committee was busy planning for the upcoming tournament. There must be sensitive information being passed about as they were behind closed doors. Happy Jack was late in assuming his position at the raffle ticket station. This writer tried to help but as a banker I felt the 3 for $2 and other discounts were too good a deal so I was summarily booted from sales. Our District Governor, Kyong Wilson, and Assistant Governor, Marty Fins, were in the vestibule warmly greeting new and old friends. It’s nice to see the camaraderie that Rotary develops. Dan Firestone was queried by this writer about the structure and the workings of the Rotary hierarchy and the levels of management. He was very helpful to a fellow Rotarian so kudo’s to Dan. Walking about the crowd of 32 Rotarians there was much engagement amongst the crowd during the pre-lunch portion of the meeting. Trying to get novel statements from a few was difficult as Bob Buettner said, “I am staying low and behaving myself today”. It’s about time!
 

A wonderful invocation was conveyed to the members by Jay Stewart. She shared so much but what stood out for me was the emphasis on being good Rotarians, meet new friends and share your skills and talents. Nice job Jay. We were called to a lunch consisting of chicken parm complemented with pasta, mixed vegetables, salad and rolls. Yvette Roming noted hints of garlic butter in the pasta—nice touch. It was a fine meal that was finished with cheese cake. Again, conversation was active, but low key during dinner. No controversies, much to my dismay. As always, the post dinner song was robustly lead by Neal Cunningham and Art Bradbury. Where did Neal get them pipes? His baritone is well complemented by the smile that exudes confidence and joy in song.
 

 So where did Marc Glass get the sharp looking outfit? Does it go back to East Hartford’s heyday with Harmac’s and Sherman’s ties? He was looking sharp for the Governess and not a funeral as he told his son when leaving the house. It was hard not to recognize the injuries that Bob Wood incurred while riding in the front of a boat. Rocks and boats do not mix well. We all wish you well in your recovery and hope all injuries are quickly healed. There were two guests, but by the end of the meeting they were Rotarians. So, officially, no guests. Sheryl O’Connor took the podium to explain the structure, trustees and financial ratings of the Rotary Foundation. Suffice it to say it was very informative. Thanks, Sheryl. George Schoen provided an update on the Golf Tournament. We are looking for golfers, raffle prizes and T signs so please use the collateral material he provided and sell this event. Very worthwhile and the funds are used for such good purposes.
 

Alex Wisz, chief duck, made a well-deserved presentation to George Agnelli for his long term support, dedication and contributions to the annual Duck Race. I understand he has asked for tickets for Duck Race 2016 as books are being sold already. You “quack” George! Congrats to new members Jessica LeRoy and Olivia Henze. Fresh faces with enthusiasm, energy and ideas. This is what makes us thrive.
 

We were then treated to a chat with Kyong Wilson. She shared moments of her life that helped make her whom she is today, the itome of service above self. She shared what it was like to be born in South Korea and the 11^th and youngest child of her family. Kyong was a banker for 20 years, a noble profession, but felt the urge to do more in her community. She considered Lions and Rotary and found the latter to be her calling. We are fortunate she made that decision. I am personally looking into the Lions as she stated they drink a lot. Sounds like college! My take aways from her presentation were personal in that she talked about a new members group for newly inducted Rotarians, one that groomed the newbies and provided mentors to them as they engaged with the group. This benefits the individual and the whole group as the new Rotarian is indoctrinated into the group and assumes supporting and leadership roles. An excellent talk that was well received with a standing ovation.

 

So that’s all this week. Hope you enjoyed the summary. So much happens and cannot be represented in a letter. Hope to see you all next week for fun and conversation.