Rotagram - Meeting Notes and Club News
Volume 62, Issue 4	Wednesday, August 7, 2002	Written and reported by Bill Schenk

El Heffe called the meeting to order at the usual time and asked Bill Gorman to lead the club in the Pledge. An accapella version of "My country 'Tis Of Thee" followed by "Smile" was led by Griff Duncan, Ray Ashcroft, X-Prez Bill Peloquin, Jim Blackburn, and Jim Young.

Jim Young offered the Thought For The Day that questioned the behavior of today's young people. He quoted a concerned Socrates from 339 BC.

Minard Duncan introduced today's guests and visiting Rotarians, which included Bryan Johnson and Edward Burrier who were hosted by Chris Lowe. And Jan Flory who was hosted by Don Bankhead. Visiting Rotarians include Terry Matz from Brea (assistant city manager), and Marty Simonoff from Lakewood Rotary (Current Mayor of Brea).

Announcements included a reminder for the Fullerton Rotary Clubs' Annual Picnic at Ralph B. Clark Regional Park on Friday, August 23rd. Rick Price announced a suspension of Fullerton Rotary Baseball practice. This shrewd management strategy is in effort to recruit more players.

President Mike outlined the Rotary license plate program (once again). 7,500 Rotarians are needed (statewide) to make this program fly. When it does, a significant amount of revenue is returned to Rotary.

The Kingston Trio and a Gershwin musical evening are being considered by the Board for the January concert. Input is being sought from the membership.

Fullerton Rotary is looking for a Public Relations person. Anyone interested should talk to President Mike.

WILD WEST FINES President Mike has recently announced that he and his posse will be issuing fines for behavior or comments that he considers "fine-able". Said fines will be levied at his discretion (Although his discretion is still being evaluated!). New cars, child (or grandchild) births, various special occasions which are not covered during usual recognitions could be fine-able offenses. Bring your lawyer or a few extra dollars. All fines are negotiable, arguable, and laughable. Club-members holding "Pot-Pass" cards have the right to be insufferable! Chet Schultz holds the first "Pot-Pass" good for one month. Chet outbid Bill Gorman and now enjoys a 30-day waiver from WILD WEST FINES.

Rick Crane had the winning ticket, but the usually prepared El Heffe had forgotten to dream up a question. Prez Mike asked Rick questions until he finally missed one and awarded Mr. Crane only partial winnings. Mr. Crane graciously donated his small portion of the $35 back to the club.

Recognition-master Jim Blackburn fined Dennis Ulrich, Tom Meyer, and Ronnie Hewett for their birthdays. Claude Jones ponied up for spouse, Laurie's birthday. Bob Jahncke, John Kunau, and Bob Clark, Sr. each paid for anniversaries.

Dr. Leroy Fulton introduced Placentia Mayor Chris Lowe and Brea Mayor Marty Simonoff to speak on issues concerning the communities in North Orange County. Chris spoke on Placentia's plans to lower the railroad tracks through Placentia and Marty spoke of the economic development. A lively discussion followed that included comments from the audience (i.e. Mayor Bankhead, former Mayor Jones, and Former and Future Mayor Flory.)

Thoughtful closing comment from Prez Mike:
A pessimist complains that the wind is blowing. An optimist expects it to change. A realist adjusts his sails.