A tiny group gathered at the Roger . . .Sept 18, 2014

New Canaan Rotary Club Bulletin                                September 18, 2014

 

A tiny group gathered at the Roger for the weekly Rotary Club of New Canaan on a perfect New England fall day.  In the absence of the bell President Eric had to display a glimpse of his stern side as he used his outside voice to call the group to order for the Pledge.  Before asking the blessing Eric reported that he had learned this morning of the death of John Marlow's 101 year old father-in-law and asked that he be remembered in our prayers.  He then said grace and, as members continued to trickle in, moved the District Governor to the front of the chow line.  Second in line was Assistant District Governor Ben who, despite the sub-freezing temperature in the dining room, was sweating like a journalist at an ISIS meeting.

 

By the time the business portion of the meeting got under way four tables were occupied and order was again restored to the universe as Kevin was the last one in.  We had no Visiting Rotarians or guests.  With the Lobsterfest bearing down on us head lobster Rob Avery delivered a preview of what can be expected next weekend with his announcement that Leo's tent will be erected on Thursday or Friday evening at 4:00, 6:00 or 6:30.  Following much discussion and kibitzing the correct information emerged – Thursday afternoon at 4:00.  Eight to ten people for 30 minutes will be required.  Plan to work as much as you can over the weekend with priority on Friday and Saturday from 4:00 to cleanup.  The Catholics appear to have dropped out of the competition, but the Episcopal and Methodist Boy Scout troops will be in attendance as will a cohort of SLOBS.  In a generous, but ultimately rejected offer, B.T. mentioned that he could, if needed, bring the mysterious Lionheart kids from Ridgefield.  Each member is responsible to provide either 30 desserts or a check for $25.00.

 

Carolyn reported that she had received an email from NC Summer Theater director Ed Libonati indicating that he had a block of 25 tickets available for the production of Matilda on October 5.  If interested call Ed at the Summer Theater number.  Sergeant Scott then offered his entry into the Master Card advertising sweepstakes with a "priceless" story.  Only two fines were to be had; B.T. on general principals, and Keith because by tonight his Scottish friends and relatives may be foreigners!

 

Assistant District Governor Ben then rose and, in a shameless example of sucking up to one's boss, introduced District Governor Mukund Nori as the day's intimidatingly well-educated speaker.  Mukund is a second generation Rotarian whose father was a member in Zambia in the 1970's.  He is a member of the North Branford Club who lives there and works in Southport.  As all NC members are already aware, the R.I theme for this year is Light Up Rotary and the District focus is Make Rotary Fun.  As Mukund pointed out, were our Club in Colorado, these same words might have very different meanings.  He would like each District 7980 Rotarian, each of whom is unique and special, to find an opportunity to mentor someone, perhaps a fellow Rotarian who is losing enthusiasm.  He wants us all to wear our Rotary gear with pride and to enjoy our membership and the service we deliver.  He is a significant contributor to the R. I. Foundation and urges every member to follow his example at whatever level is appropriate because of the unbelievable return on investment the Foundation provides.  As examples he cited that one dollar will provide lifetime immunity from polio for one child; clean water for a family for a year; anti-malarial mosquito nets for a family for a year; or three square meals for a day.  In an effort to keep everything in the District local he has scheduled this year's District Conference for May 14-17 at the Dolce Hotel and Resort in Norwalk.  He is introducing District Olympics including bocce [in his version points are awarded for trash talking], interclub 8 ball competition, a spelling bee, and finally, something called a Hendricksen's race which involves swimming with a newspaper which must remain dry.  There will also be an opportunity to "Dunk the Guv" for a modest contribution.  All in all an information-rich presentation delivered with humor and humility.  Starting on Thursday afternoon at 4:00 and continuing through the weekend let's Make Service Fun!!

 

Paul Harris