August 5th Rotary meeting notes
There was a robust number of members and guests on hand to start our evening meeting. Co-Presidents Athenea and Alex opened the meeting and invited Jim Sommer to do the Pledge. He praised our fine Olympic athletes for acquitting themselves well under difficult circumstances and then led everyone in reciting the Pledge. The Inspirational Message followed from new member Mary Doss who spoke of an old friend from her knitting group, Laurie, a woman of color. She was an important member of the group, whose talents were extensive.
Co-President Alex then walked around the floor welcoming guests. Our inimitable Man With the Baton, Joel Doss led us in a spiffy welcome song. The volunteers on duty were recognized; Zoom master Alan Turner, Scribe John O’Neill, newsletter editor Bill Angus, sergeant-of arms Bill Brehm and Front Desk Jim Hyldahl. Don Glover was called on for a final update on the Saturday 8/1 Padre game. There 40 folks attending the game from three Rotary clubs A great is anticipated by all. Arilla St. Laurent informed us of the passing of Toby and Ann Westbrook’s sister. Our deepest sympathy go out to the Westbrook family.
Fine Master John O’Neill was introduced to an unusually raucous chorus of boos, bringing a smile to his face. John Began by fining himself for not wearing his badge, a truly sad state of affairs. Happy Bucks were then solicited. Generous members Arilla, Alex and Scott Lawn, Alan Turner, Don Glover and Jim Hyldahl stepped up with donations. Thanks to all for your generosity.
Past District Governor Mike Stelman was called on to introduce our speaker current District Governor, Dan Gensler, whom he has known and worked with over the past 25 years. DI Gensler took the mic and asked that Rosalind Duddy and Terri Hunter, plus their mentors step to the front of the room to be welcomed into our club. He spoke about the benefits, camaraderie and importance of Rotary involvement, then welcomed Rosalind and Terri into the family of Rotary.
He then described his motivation to join Rotary and discovered the immense satisfaction that comes from belonging to an organization that helps locally and around the world. There are 35,000 clubs in over 200 countries and territories. We're providing clean water literacy and education, peace and conflict resolution economic and Community development, maternal health, and now, most recently, supporting the environment.
He described many of the projects and people he has known in Baja and Africa and Guatemala in detail. He encouraged everyone to get involved in our club projects or to even start their own. When finished DI Gensler was given a warm Rotary applause.
Co-president Athenea rang the bell to end the meeting. The Rotarians then proceeded to step outside to take a group photo with the District Governor.
