President Jim Leet (Boutin Jones Inc.) began by thanking Elfrena Foord for greeting us with his musical talents on the piano and to our greeters, Giuliano Kornberg (Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera), Darlene Hailey, and Dave Higdon (California Moving Systems). Thanks also to Ann Solomon (University of Auckland) for reporting on this week’s Rotary Club meeting. Much gratitude to John Swentowsky (Swentowsky Photography) for capturing memorable moments. Thank you, Forrest Junod, for pouring a lovely selection of wines, also a big thank you to our meeting sponsors President Jim Leet & Grant Bledsoe (Three Oaks Capital Management).

Our Thought of the Day was presented by Amanda Nelson (Albie Aware Breast Cancer Foundation) who reminded us that, “When you travel, a new silence goes with you and if you listen, you will hear what your heart would love to say.” (Quoting Mr. John Donohue)

 

John Wood (McGee & Thielen) introduced guests, prospective members and visiting Rotarians. Robert Fuller, (Delfino Madden O’Malley Coyle & Koewler, LLP), was welcomed as our newest Rotarian. Robert was sponsored by President Jim Leet and Grant Bledsoe.

John McIntyre (Mercy Foundation) was honored as a Sacramento Rotary Fellow, earning his second Paul Harris pin. John – Congratulations on this great honor and thank you for your continuing service to Sacramento Rotary!

 

President Jim recognized our birthday Rotarians with a PowerPoint presentation.

 

Chair of the day Kiefie Breuer introduced speaker Brian Asher (A Journey to Every Country in the World/Spanish Teacher/Rio Americano High School). He is a Sacramento native and Spanish teacher at his alma matter Rio Americano High School. Brian took us on a fascinating journey through 191 countries, which was inspired by his late brother. He has six countries left to complete his journey to visit every country in the world. Travel allows Brian to grow, learn, trust in strangers, and be patient. In particular, travel reminds us all that it is important to recognize the good that many different and diverse cultures have to offer. We should truly not postpone our dreams. Only by stepping out of our comfort zone can we learn how truly capable we are. You can Follow Brian at theworldhiker.com and The World Hiker on Facebook. Thank you, Brian, for the story of your journey and the sage advice.

 

Announcements

 

Our next Fireside for this term will be held at the home of Past President Fred Teichert (Teichert Foundation) and his wife Nancy Teichert. The festivities start at 5:30 PM and will continue until 7:30 PM. 

 

Sac Century’s Past President Susan Sheridan reported that we raised over $100,000 and still counting!

Alice Sauro (Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera) announced Daughter’s Day set for December 17th

John Swentowsky (Swentowsky Photography) noted there will be two Salvation Army bell ringing dates at Macy’s on December 13 and December 21.

 

Congratulations to Gerry Dabi (Golden Pacific Bank) and his wife for the announcement that a new Rotarian is on his or her way!

 

At our next meeting, Foundation Day! Rotary Rockers! See you there.