Why did you join Rotary?
A few years before joining, my wife and I attended a Latin-themed fundraiser at the Garlands. My wife's parents were good friends with Marie Bolchazy who had given them two tickets to attend that year. They could not, so my wife and I went. We had a great time, but I found that Rotary was doing great things in the world, and I wanted to learn more about it. As a father of four very young children, that curiosity was laid to rest and I never followed up.
Some time later, I wanted to be part of an organization that was making a difference. I woke up early on Thursday morning, and walked into a meeting (uninvited (gasp)). I was immediately embraced (by Terry) and welcomed by every single member I met. After sitting through the meeting, it just made sense to join a great group of people doing great things.
What experiences/ projects/ events have you most enjoyed and/or gained the most from your participation?
The overall Rotary experience was great from the beginning. I truly enjoyed the camaraderie among the members and the conversations that were had at breakfast every Thursday morning. . . at least until March 2020.
My work with the Interact Club at Barrington High School has been the most rewarding since I joined. The Club has struggled to increase and maintain membership, but even at its lowest point, the Interact Club has always managed to find a project or a cause to embrace and support. Seeing that drive and motivation among young students is very inspiring.
What three things do you enjoy doing in your "free" time?
"Free" time? I am not sure I know what that is.
I enjoy traveling, live music shows and mixing drinks (usually for others). These are some of the things I make time for - even when I am not "free".