Week of Sept. 7 - 13, 2008

By Dr. Larry Hashimoto
President 2008-09
Redondo Beach Rotary Club

Today, we started construction on the "Banzai Express" The planning phase took about 2 hours with new member Dieter Thomas, an architect, designing the prototype model out of construction paper, using the Internet as a guide on how this cardboard boat was to be made. Jim Chen and John Mirassou, with their boating knowledge, gave very helpful advice. Myself, being the president, was there for moral support. Karen Weigel was the project manager and Chat Campbell, well, was just Chat. Even the Governor made an appearance. So, I guess technically this was considered a make-up meeting. But, we were all very productive and were able to somewhat finish the "bones" of the "Banzai Express". We're planning our next phase for Thursday evening, Sept. 11th, at about 6 PM at Jim's shop again. So, come join the fun if you are available.

The Paul Harris Dinner Celebration is about a month away, so please get your raffle ticket money into Bill Gard ASAP. Remember, all members are required to sell at least one book of tickets. The money goes for a good cause and will get you closer to becoming a Paul Harris Fellow or a Paul Harris Family, with multiple Paul Harris Fellows. Donation of silent auctions items will also help, with half the proceeds credited to the donor and the other half to the buyer.

And last but not least, please sign up to join us at Medieval Times on Sunday, October 12th, for a fun-filled family Celebration.

The Presidents' Dinner is this Tuesday evening, September 9th, starting at 6 PM at the Toyota Museum. Our club will be hosting this event, so everyone is invited. The cost is $35/person and that includes dinner, catered by Good Stuff, drinks, including beer, wine and Kris' famous sangria. Paul Salmo will host a tequila-tasting bar also.

Thank you for being a Redondo Beach Rotarian, Larry