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Escaping a scorching hot sun, Rotarians arrived to a cool room and a hot topic…the Padres. President Dick Troncone welcomed all and gave Tim O’Brien the opportunity to inspire us with words from Winston Churchill. His words reflected the power and resolve of the USA when times are tough. Steve Hubbard appropriately followed with God Bless America and Joe Zakowski’s piano playing kept us on pace. Bert Wahlen not only continues to bring us the current news…but the important history of our club as well. This segued perfectly into Jennifer Perkins’ Rotator ad announcement. Providing examples of how advertising either your business or others’ is a terrific way to support Club 33 programs. She implored all to give generously. Long ago it was the principal source of funding for our projects.
New member, but obviously a very skilled previous Rotarian, Bob Bauchman introduced himself to our club. He is a former member of 2 Florida Rotary clubs and a past president and has settled here in SD to run Northern Trust. Bill McDade, otherwise known as Soccer Grandpa, announced that the Rotary Foundation on Saturday, Sept 12th would be a perfect time to feel good about all that Rotary does around the world. Our own Richard Coutts will be the keynote speaker discussing Polio Plus and eradication efforts. Bill promises not to be on the golf course that morning. Where he will actually be was obvious.
Woody Ledford promoted the inaugural concert of the Wonder Morton Organ that is happening on Sept 13th. This organ is one of 4 left in the world and has been beautifully restored. As a perk, Woody has offered to donate more funds to Rotary Microcredit and Polio Plus if Rotarians will come to the historic Balboa Theatre to celebrate this event.
COD Bruce Binkowski introduced Jeff Moorad, the new CEO and minority owner of the SD Padres. Through a very succinct and heartfelt talk, he articulated the problems associated with major league baseball as well as the current Padres’ woes. He believes that steps are being taken in the right direction by careful signing of young, promising ball players. The payroll will increase as the scouts find talent. Recently they have invested in the future by signing 19 of their 20 draft picks. Thus far it has been a challenging and frustrating season. His immediate goal is to develop club policies that lead to consistent and competitive success. He notes that this cannot happen overnight but that he is asking for community/fan support as changes take place. On a lighter note, each day he sits in a different spot in PETCO Park and says, “WOW.” He seems happy to be here to face the future.
Editor of the Day: Geri Warnke
Photography by Paul Nestor
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