O.V. #32 - RC of Farmington San Juan 9-28-10

President Robert and I have had a great relationship since meeting at PETS.... He really would like to see his club 'move forward' in some areas that are holding them back.  The club is highly involved in both local, regional, and international issues, especially the 'Don't Meth With Us' Program (founded by local Rotarian Paul McQueary and recently featured in the Rotarian magazine providing international exposure to this home grown initiative).

I am proud of this club on what they have done and are trying to do......  Thanks for the hospitality.  I especially know some of you 'a little better' now after our 'lightening round' of 'detailed' questions at Monday nights dinner....

Once again... two bald guys together.... a common scene.....something special for a few of my "supporters" out there! ! !

O.V. # 31 RC of Gallup 9-15-10

WOW!  you've got to get a make up here.  Sammy C's restaurant is probably one of the neatest places I have been to between Dallas and Los Angeles from a themed restaurant standpoint.  Sports memorabilia are everywhere.  Most you wouldn't expect in Gallup, NM. 

Then there's the Rotary Club.  President Angelo is way on the ball and working to move the club forward.  Typical of most of the clubs in the district, this one has a ton of potential in the community.... it just needs to go out there and find it....  

Great club, great membership.   

Also, go on a search for the PDG Tom Lindsay's signed 8x10..... next to James Caan of all people (too funny, but Sammy C strongly supports Rotary and thinks highly of District leadership!).......

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Group Study Exchange (GSE) Team Member Interviews 9-25-10 Roswell

The weekend began with a social on Friday night at Justin Ellis' house.  16 applications were accepted.... 13 candidates to interview.  Great time getting to know the folks the night before.... Interviews began at 7.30 am Saturday..... 4 great candidates were selected and 1 strong alternate.  My old District in Australia is the destination (http://www.9670.emc.com.au/).  Their District Convention will be in Dubbo March 2011, (where I lived in 1998-99) . 

The selection committee pre-game meeting

all of the candidates awaiting the 'news' of who has been selected

The 2011 D5520 GSE Team (L to R), Alternate Team Leader Hollis, Team Leader Tony, Team Members, Cliff Pirtle (Roswell), Sarah VanDenBerg (La Plata), Brian Cochran (ABQ), Amanda Stevens (Rio Rancho), 1st Alternate Summer Salomonsen (Santa Fe) , and DG TP

First task as a team... Look at calendars and try to set up 4 face to face meetings to prepare for trip....

GSE Team Member apps needed

As of this past weekend, we had only 2 applications for GSE Team Member.  Applications must also include an essay.  We need your help in finding qualified people.  This isn't a 'vacation' for them, but a great opportunity to learn how folks do their job on the other side of the world.  Application requirements, etc can be found at www.rotary5520.org

O.V. # 30 RC of Grants 9-14-10

What a great group.... I met with the board prior to the club meeting and had a very constructive talk, specifically regarding Honorary Membership and Senior Exempt status.  Very hospitable and worthy of a make up.  President Laura has a strong positive attitude and has a great opportunity to grow the influence of Rotary in their town. 

board meeting

board meeting

board meeting

the board

96 years old, sharp as a tack, Past President (x3 different clubs, 3 different states), lost count at being in Rotary "over 60 years" Past President Bob and TP (sorry for not getting a shot with eyes open)