Posted by John Bowman on Nov 26, 2011
• What is (was) your day job?
After 45 years of running my own business, I now assist my daughter, Andrea, as she transits to full ownership of my company, Kessler Mfg. & Imports. My business involved importing unusual gift items from Europe, and wholesaling items throughout the gift markets in the U.S.
 
• What is your favorite book? or book genre?
 My reading material revolves around articles in newspapers, magazines and periodicals on the following issues: science, the environment, and health. My fiction this year consisted of both listening to the tapes and reading the 3 books in the trilogy by Stieg Larsson, starting with “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo”. My wife and I enjoyed these books while driving to and from Arizona this past year.

• If you were in charge, what would you mandate be the national pastime?
Our national pastime should be twofold: riding a bike whenever the time and the weather permit, and taking the time to say hello with a smile to complete strangers. Everything good starts with the word hello!

• What are your hobbies?
My favorite hobby is perusing re-sale, consignment and pseudo-antique shops whenever I travel either in the United States or Europe. I am always looking to make an interesting discovery or find. Other hobbies include educational travel with my wife, and researching family history.
 
 • What would you like to tell members about yourself or your recent activities?
I have entered the 21st century and am becoming somewhat adept at using a computer and my cell phone. The smart phone and iPad are still foreign to me.
 
 • What do most people not know about you?
I listen to my guardian angel…(if you do not believe, it is because you are not listening.)
 
• Who was your sponsor?                                                                                                            
James (Jim) Allans was my sponsor. He was a member of my original Wilmette Noon Club.
 
• How do you pitch Rotary?
I pitch the 24 words of The Four Way Test, to make the world a little better.
 
• What aspect of Rotary makes you passionate to be involved?
I enjoy the camaraderie of Rotary and the value system it represents.
 
• What is your most memorable experience in Rotary?
 The most enriching experience has been attending Rotary meetings in major cities during both business and personal travel.