Just as the good ship “Rotary” shoved off for our cruise, Thad Sandford, Randy McFarland and Griff Duncan did the honors for Pledge, Invocation and Song, respectively. I’ve developed a habit of asking guests at my table if they think that singing at our meeting is out of line, and so far, no one has expressed shock or dismay. Maybe we don’t have to do everything the millennials want! Maybe they do appreciate a connection to “old school” traditions!
Our captain Dick Daybell graciously welcomed our guests and visitors, who included Erlinda Vasquez guest of Marty Burbank, Nick Derr was guest of Drew Napolin and David Hodge was hosted by Rick Crane. Josh Ramirez from the Corona Rotary Club also joined us today.
Announcements
Right off the bat, our captain recognized our own Miko Krisvoy for her spearheading the recent two “Top 100” dinners at Fullerton Community Center to the appreciative applause of the room. Miko was quick to acknowledge the many Rotarians who assisted with one or both events and members who were involved were asked to stand to applause from the rest of the membership.
Bill Schenk and Raco AKA “Raco” shared about Rotary at Fullerton Union High School before they passed out Top 100 certificates to the top Freshman and Sophomore scholars. Thanks for your efforts of planting the seeds in potential future Rotarians!
The drawing amounted to $16. and was not won by any one.
Recognitions
Dan Kiernan was respectfully welcomed to the podium by many applauding members who were hoping to get out of a fine if Dan noticed them clapping for him. The table of Marty Burbank and Miko chipped in for their fines for doing good for our community. Dan gave a nice promotion for Bill Schenk, but then fined him for it. Zoot Velasco AKA “Zoot” was fined for not promoting something…no…. that couldn’t be it…. I don’t remember why he was fined!
John Phelps was fined for his Birthday and Kerry’s Birthday. Dan’s persistence finally persuaded John to divulge that he turned 79 for the very first time, so we sang the traditional song in his honor.
Don Bankhead committed matrimony 33 years ago with Carol while Drew Napolin joined Rotary 14 years ago. Bill Schenk celebrated 33 years of marital bliss by taking his best man out to dinner with their wives.
Leslie McCarthy risked a fine by announcing that the Boys and Girls Club’s gold tournament is sold out. John Phelps is grandfather of twins! Does that mean two of the same kid?
PROGRAM
We were glad to have Tim Howells speak to us representing “Tara’s Chance”, our local Hippotherapy program. This 501(c)(3) organization operates at Coyote Hills Ranch at Brea Dam utilizing 31 caring volunteers to provide fun equestrian experiences which is therapeutic for 32 special needs and at risk youth ages 4 to 32 years. They have a wide variety of diagnoses and everyone benefits in different ways from their involvement with the equestrians and each other. Improvements in strength, balance, core strength coordination have been the result of a wide variety of activities on horseback.
Volunteers must be at least 16 years old and they frequently witness “firsts” like first words spoken by a special needs child, or reduction of spinal muscle atrophy.
Equines are chosen by size and temperament and received special evaluation and training. They seem to have a special calmness and patience for their riders despite what crazy activities are performed on their backs, like shooting hoops with a basketball! Dan Ouweleen and John Phelps both commented to the benefits of equine therapy that they have witnessed. If you or someone you know is interested to visit or help or learn more, go to www.Taraschance.org. No doubt the volunteers get as much out of this experience as anyone! Thanks Tim for sharing the important efforts of this organization!
In conclusion, the Captain decisively rang the Rotary bell which ironically reminds me of a ship’s bell!
Dates announced:
May 11 Club meeting at the Muck
May 13-14 District Conference in Newport
May 25 Red Nose Day (a Wednesday) no alcohol will be served
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4/30
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CLC - Paint Project for Love Fullerton |
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5/4
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Community Investment Awards Vern Andrews |
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5/11
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Offsite Meeting at the Muck - The Car Show - Zoot Velasco |
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5/13-5/14
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District Conference in Newport |
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5/18
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Wolf Knabe - Fullerton Preparedness |
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5/25
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The Assistance League of Fullerton----WhatThey Are About |
