Rotary Log for August 18, 2016

 
Rotary Log for Thursday August 18th, 2016
by Dick Seery
 
The Program:  “Leadership matters. Solutions matter. Getting things done matters.”
 
 
Stella Scamman introduced and greeted Candidate Ted Gatsas, one of three Republican candidates for Governor. Gatsas is clearly, a well-qualified individual as a four- term Mayor of Manchester, New Hampshire’s largest city. 
 
 
We heard his evaluation of the major issues facing the Governor of N.H.  He considers them to be first opioid and heroin epidemic and then high energy and health care costs. Also on the candidate’s list: public education reform, especially to efficiently train / retain skilled workers.  As a businessman, executive and elected official, he objects to government “being in our pockets.”  He prefers bottom up decision making where school districts and parents have local control when it comes to education. 
 
 
If elected, Ted Gatsas would follow Hugh Gallen as the last mayor to win the Governorship (1973).  The candidate believes there is too much “down-shifting” of costs to communities. The practice squeezes local budgets and force towns to raise real estate taxes. He pledges to veto any proposed sales or income tax.

 

Ted’s plans represent the interests of our citizens. He believes that “with the right leadership, the challenges are not insurmountable if we work together for forge solutions.” His business experience and being both a State Senator (President-2005) and Mayor, make him a formidable candidate for the corner office.  

 
Visit: tedgatsas.com to learn more about the candidate!
 
Announcements:
  • Birthday salutes to Stella Scamman (16 years in Rotary) and Dick Yeaton (41 years-wow)!
  • Seven day notice for Donna Harvey and Lindsey Hery!
  • Peter Grace to Chair 2017 Golf Tournament.
  • Visiting guests included Jillian Burns (Moe Sullivan invitee), Karen Kindle (Stella), Evaristo Vasquez (Luis), Tony Pirri (John Lyons), Olivia Petersen (local Rotary operative) and Gabe Weinrieb, Eric’s son.
  • International Service / Immunization project in India and Africa.
  • Happy Dollars … there were many from the audience.   Eric Weinrieb stole the crowd’s attention when he introduced his little league son, Gabe, a powerhouse hitter for Portsmouth Little League. His team (Ages 9-10) won the N.H. State Little League Title after Gabe singled in the 9th with two outs!You almost felt like being in the stands watching…
  • 50/50 - Reverend Gordon Allen (again).  Proceeds ($75) donated to the Salvation Army.                                                                                                         
 
                                                                                                                                            
And, a big “Thank You” To Portsmouth Rotary and Cash Committee from the Portsmouth Women’s City Club President, Cathy Hodson.  Last winter the center’s furnace needed replacement.  Rotary came to the rescue.  The Club’s home is a 1920 single standing house (1920) with eight bedrooms at 375 Middle Street. The PWC offers temporary, low cost workforce housing and rental event space for up to 70 people.
 
Respectfully submitted, Dick Seery
 
 
 
 
Sponsors