IN THIS ISSUE

Vol. 13, No. 16, October 16, 2000

 Friday Potpourri

Al Ficker, visiting Rotarian from Kauai, describes his forthcoming trip to Ghana on behalf of PolioPlus.

After the opening bell by President Kopczynski, Larry (John) May stepped forward with the invocation and pledge to the flag. New member Susan Harrison greeted four visiting Rotarians, including Al Ficker, from Poipu Beach, Kauai, Hawaii. Al is a past District Governor of the Hawaiian Rotary Clubs and stopped at the BBRC on his way to Ghana in Africa to participate in a massive PolioPlus immunization project this coming week. “Three and a half million doses of vaccine will be administered to children in Ghana by a team of 93 California and Hawaiian Rotarians and 15,000 volunteers.” Al was excited about the project, proudly displaying the “Goodbye Polio, Thanks Rotary” bumper strip.

President Cary reminded members about this week’s meeting, featuring Dr. Ann McTiernan, who will conduct a program on “Exercise to Reduce Breast Cancer.” Members should feel free to invite their spouses for this very important health program.

Earl Falk talking up Northwest Harvest.

Earl Falk again urged members to join Rotary First Harvest in its annual fall fund drive, stating that “98% of those who visit foodbanks are below the poverty line, impacting heavily on our senior and child population. Over the years, 60 million pounds of fresh food have been collected and distributed by Rotary First Harvest.” Envelopes and gift cards are available at each meeting this month.

Dick Brown reminded members of the Ugly Tie Contest, set for Friday, October 27. A nice prize awaits the winner. Dick also announced the annual meeting of the Past Presidents Club on Tuesday, October 31. No Trick-or-Treating for the Past Presidents!

Saturday, October 28, is the annual work party sponsored by the Preserve Planet Earth Committee of the BBRC. Tim Moriarty said that 27 Rotarians have signed up to work 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Marymoor Park in Redmond. Planting of several thousand shrubs and trees along the Sammamish River will provide a restored habitat for migrating salmon.

I visited the Lakeland Rotary Club with our son Bill and got a lecture on water management problems in central Florida – NIMBY all over again.

Bernadette and I have been visiting the grandkids, and generally enjoying cool (Seattle-style) weather. The natives are complaining loudly.

Bill had serious back surgery in July (14 hours on the OR table), and his rehab is coming along pretty well. They expect full recovery in another six to nine months.