New Canaan Rotary Club Bulletin                                         November 23, 2009

 

Everyone was not able to fully participate in the New Canaan Rotary Club’s Fiftieth Anniversary extravaganza last Saturday evening, including your humble scrivener.  In response to a request to our esteemed president for an accounting of events of the evening so that, at least, a gonzo journalism version could be presented to members, both those present and those not, for their edification, like Steve Risbridger, I got nuthin.  David emailed Scribe Nancy to ask for her impressions of the celebration as she was present, with the fair Ron, from the inception of the evening to the bitter end, but apparently ignorant of the geographic freedom offered by the internet, Nancy begged off on the basis that she isn’t in New Canaan at the present time.  The only illumination from today’s meeting was that Senator Dodd, apparently secure in his bid for re-election, was a no-show, as was Desert Dave,  and sole remaining charter member Peter Santella gave a stirring speech in response to receipt of a priceless memento of the celebration.  Gentle Ben recognized the contributions made by the Anniversary Committee chaired by producer of almost everything in town, Bill Walbert.  During my relatively short sojourn at the Carriage Barn I was delighted with the Kerchoff family power point presentation of fifty years of New Canaan Rotary.  Some familiar faces and a number of nostalgic appearances.  My favorite was one of the dishwashing crew on Christmas Day at the Roger prominently featuring the good doctor and his winsome wife, Faith.  Perhaps for the benefit of those not in attendance this could be presented as a program one Thursday.

 

As President David was uncharacteristically late, The bell rang itself, Ad faked a prayer and then pushed to the head of the chow line in a huff.  David eventually appeared and seized control of the meeting.

 

David and Roy Riggio, who was celebrating a birthday and who looked great for an 80 year old man, had two guests whose names eluded your correspondent.  If they show up again I will try to get their names at that time.  If not, we don’t need to be able to identify every itinerant diner at the Roger Sherman.

 

Sergeant Scott reprised a touching tale of a wayward penguin.  Notable fines were paid by Gridiron Roastee Mike Hobbs for the gentle handling he received at the hands of Walbert and company, Roy for the above mentioned birthday and Newport Frank in honor of Santella’s speech.

 

President David then explained the Clean Your Mile sign up sheet which he circulated.  Rotarians will have multiple opportunities to serve.  Show up at Kiwanis on Saturday at 9:15.  If he is smart, David will have coffee and donuts waiting.  Teams will then dissemble and head for their assignments.  Just show up and all will be revealed.

 

There being no program, Mike Hobbs alerted the membership to the first of a business leaders series at the NC Library on Sunday, May 3 at 5:00 at which resident Bob Seelert, non-executive chairman of Saatchi and Saatchi, will discuss his new book, Start With the Answer.  There is no charge, but attendees are requested to notify the Library to insure the appropriateness of the venue.  Bob is a very bright, talented and experienced manager who will be sharing his accumulated wisdom from an impressive business career.  Having known Bob for many years, read his book and watched several of his television interviews, I confidently predict an enjoyable and informative program.

 

Charles Saatchi