Rotary Club of El Cerrito

El Cerrito Rotary: The Wheel March 12, 2009

 

El Cerrito Rotary
The Wheel
Editors: Gary Buffon & Michael Doughtery
Week of March 12th  
President Jack welcomed us to the friendly El Cerrito Rotary Club.  Gary A. led the flag salute and Pres Jack provided a thought for the day.
 
Introduction of guests and Visiting Rotarians: Sec John introduced visiting Rotarians: Mike Roberts from Berkeley and Herb Stern from Atlantic City, NJ,
 
Announcements:
ð     The board approved a change in the Genie Stone award. The winner will receive a month’s free lunches (just like the old days)
ð     Karen and produced a draft of guest speakers policy so we can be consistent when we invite people to speak at the club. This will eliminate confusion and keep things on a level playing field.
ð     Pres Jack announced the proposal for Keith Wilson as new members Voice vote was unanimous for approving him as a member.
ð     Nobuko announced two important dates: April 18th will be a pot luck dinner at Mike Gonzalez’s house in El Cerrito. June 6th is the Demotion Dinner for President Jack.
 
New Member Induction: John F introduced Paul Keith (whom he sponsored) to everyone and gave him his induction and pinned his Rotary Lapel pin. Paul then said a few words and we now have a new member. Congratulations Paul and welcome to the Friendly El Cerrito Rotary Club!!!
John F performs the induction of Paul Keith
 
Happy dollars:  John F read an e-mail from his Dad who is visiting Mexico explaining he met a Rotarian who immediately made him feel at home. Charlie read an e-mail about getting a big pile of money and Charlie said as soon as it comes in he is splitting it with Rotary – it got a big laugh. Paul Keith is happy he is being inducted today. Lee also read and e-mail inviting him to a princess contest in which he can win $500K and if he wins he is giving it to Rotary – more laughter. Pres Jack is happy his Mom’s house was sold to Scott Hannen – EC City manager. Mark S is happy that Nobuko’s announcement of Mike’s pot luck reminded him of his college days where you not only brought food but also a chair to sit on. Carl had a happy dollar because Susan Murabana in the Nairobi Rotary has started the Kenya High Interact club with 90 members.  
 
Sgt at Arms: Was on duty and did his questions for tables which ended in everyone paying recognition. We also were treated to some very funny transcripts from attorney questions in court cases.
 
Today’s Program:
The program today was a fellowship which allowed President Jack to give new Rotarian Paul a glimpse into some of his new fellow Rotarians. Several of the Veteran members told how they became Rotarians and the parts of Rotary they thing are most important. This was a very enjoyable meeting because it allowed all of us to get to know each other a bit better. The one common thread is that Rotary is about people and relationships. The relationships that Rotarians share are very special because they are forged with the passion of values, service and goodwill. Rotary is like a family with members that you chose for yourself. 
Thanks Jack for an excellent fellowship!!!
 
 
Genie Stone drawing: Because of the new rules a special drawing was held and new member Paul Keith won the magic stone.
 
Today’s Lottery Winner: Lee had his ticket pulled for a chance at winning the pot and selected cats-eye marble winning the Peets coffee.  Next Week the pot is worth $165. 
 
Interact Corner by Gary Buffon – Rotary Advisor to Interact
The Interact club has successfully recruited the new board members for next year and they are being involved in the club workings so they will be up to speed for the next year. The Camp Venture participants are Stephanie Wong and Jonathan Lee. Camp Royal participants are Cynthia Fong and Luke Twombly. 
 
Thought for Week:
Character is not made in a crisis – it is only exhibited
--Robert Freeman