By Dannie Cavanaugh
Today was Veteran's Day, a holiday for some, a day of remembrance for others, and for all of us a day to offer thanks to those who have
served or are serving in the armed services. President Bill took the time to recognize the Rotarians present at the meeting who had served, with Chuck Perelman, Phil Tangalakis, Bob Thompson, Cy Pierce, Ed Little, Jim Machado, Rob Barber, Ernie Garza, and Red Betts all giving brief summaries of their years in the Armed Forces. Red Betts brought in a plaque displaying a picture of a young Red Betts in uniform alongside the numerous medals that Red had been awarded, including the Navy Cross and the Purple Heart. Red was his typical humble self saying that the Purple Heart medal was given to him for "just a little scratch that needed only a band-aid." I am sure there was more to it than that, but Red was too modest to say anything else. To all our Veterans - thank you for your service.
The meeting started on time with the Invocation, Pledge, and Patriotic Song duties handled by Dannie Cavanaugh, Jim Machado, and Ernie Garza in that order. Our lone guest was Lomita Rotarian and Culver City resident S.P. Andrade who was welcomed in song by Janet Chabola.
Under health updates, President Bill reported that his mother was doing a bit better but was under 24 hour care. It was also reported that Jack Gardner and his wife had been in an auto accident and Sally had broken her collarbone.
There were an inordinate number of announcements. Linda Black led things off with the District Announcements focusing on the USC/UCLA Luncheon set for Friday, November 20th at the Bonaventure Hotel beginning at 11:00 AM. Linda also reminded us about the Pampered Chef fundraiser - call Linda if you have any questions. Finally, she asked everyone to mark their calendars for the Bill Winn Holiday Luncheon on December 16th - please either purchase a gift for the raffle drawing or give $15 and the Club will purchase the gifts.
Craig Ferre spoke next, covering the upcoming visit of two kids from Australia. Home and day hosts are needed and we must register with the District for compliance issues. See Craig for all the details.
Kathy Haworth announced the slate for the election of officers and directors for the 2010-2011 Rotary year. Here are the suspects, I mean, candidates:
President: Linda Black
President Elect: Ann Murakami
Secretary: Tim Messmer
Treasurer: Clint Ehlers
Directors: John Cluff
Christina Fields
Bryon Mooney
Joel Forman
Director at Large: Larry Knowles
The election will be held on December 2nd at the regular meeting.
Chris King had a couple of important items to share with the group. First, the deadline to sign up for the District trip to Ecuador is approaching fast - Chris is going and encourages all to think about attending. Second, the Rotaract Bowling night has been changed to November 20th at the AMF Bay Shore Lanes on Pico Boulevard in Santa Monica. See Chris for more details.
Other announcements included..Baby shower for the Jones and Ehler families on December 2nd..January 18th we will be entertaining a guest from Pune..Darlene Kiyan wants everyone to check Club Runner and update their profiles..Janet Chabola invited anyone who is interested in traveling to Pune, India on the first weekend of February to participate in their District Conference.
Tim Messmer then introduced our speaker for the day - Cathie-Ann Lippman, MD, who spoke about reducing one's chances of getting the flu - a timely and interesting presentation.
There were a few minutes left after the speaker concluded her talk and The Prez used the time to fine Bob Thompson for his recent truffle trip to Italy and to recognize Phil Tangalakis for not sharing his
expensive cigars with The Pres. Cartwright Sheppard then told a recycled joke and was fined $20 for his lack of originality.
Have good week Rotarians.
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