Our speakers for May 17 - Charter Members John Masterson, Andy Corliss & Pete Gallagher

In celebration of the Club’s 49^th Anniversary, Bill Spellman, Andy Corliss, John Masterson, and Tom Shilton shared their memories.

Andy, who was the Club’s third President, recalls attending the Rotary International Convention in Denver, Colorado with John Masterson.  After enjoying the convention, the two of them headed to the Coors Factory in Golden, Colorado.  Inside the factory, they were taken into the bar in the basement where they could drink as much beer as they wanted.  Interestingly, they each recall that going to the Coors Factory was the other person’s idea.

John, who was the Club’s fourth President, recalls that it was considered a great honor to be a Rotarian.  There were lots of good times including when women were allowed to join Rotary.  There were also some not-so-good times like when the Treasurer stole money from the Club.  Overall, John cherishes his many years in Rotary.  He is thankful to have had the opportunity to meet lots of wonderful people and to serve others.

Tom explained why people sometimes say (with a smile) that the Club used to push drugs.  Years ago, drug companies provided doctors with samples of their drugs.  With the help of pediatrician Wendell Sear, the Club collected these samples.  Wendell then took the samples with him when he traveled to other countries for humanitarian projects.

Bill explained why Bob Beckwith’s 59 years of perfect attendance is quite amazing.  For many years, about the only way to make-up a meeting was to attend another Club’s meeting.  Board of Directors meetings, committee meetings, etc. did not count as make-ups.  Bill remembers having to start over after ten years of perfect attendance because he was out of town for three weeks and was not able to make-up at other meetings.     

Thank you Bill, Andy, John, and Tom for sharing your memories.

Deborah A. Perkins