Lest We Forget
West U Rotary Club Newsletter — November 3rd Edition
President: Stephen B. Smith
🍂 A Season of Gratitude and Remembrance
Happy Fall, West U Rotarians!
November greets us with cooler breezes, golden leaves, and two powerful reminders — the blessings we share and the gratitude we owe. This month we pause to honor the men and women who have worn the cloth of our nation and served it proudly.
“To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.”
— From “In Flanders Fields,” John McCrae (1915)
We are deeply proud of our own West U Rotary veterans: Muddy McDaniel, Jack Hardin, Clarence Miller, Kurt Podeszwa, Gene McFaddin, Bob Fry, Brad Coffman, and yours truly. Each has a story of service, sacrifice, and leadership. I’ve invited them to share reflections on their time in uniform, and I look forward to highlighting their words in upcoming meetings.
🇺🇸 Veterans Day Luncheon – November 11th
Join us as we honor our veterans at the West U Veterans Day Luncheon at the West U Community Center on Monday, November 11th.
Please contact John Barnes if you’re available to volunteer or help with this meaningful event.
🚩 Flags Across West U – A Salute in Motion
Our flag launch kicked off last Saturday, and several Zones are already complete — what a beautiful sight! Each flag flying proudly in our community reminds us of the freedoms we enjoy and those who secured them. Thank you to all who participated in this tribute to our nation and its heroes.
🌎 East Meets West – Rotary Youth Exchange
John Thornton and I had the privilege of hosting our Rotary Youth Exchange student Hitomi and her fellow RYE colleague Bombay at a Texans game. Despite the score, the spirit of friendship and fun was strong — complete with Texas BBQ, boot scootin’, and plenty of laughter. Moments like these embody Rotary’s global fellowship and the joy of cultural exchange.
🦃 Looking Ahead: Thanksgiving and Holiday Cheer
As Thanksgiving approaches, let’s remember to share gratitude — not only for what we have but for the opportunity to serve others.
Our dear Irene has returned from South America and will soon share exciting details about our upcoming holiday party — expect surprises, joyful company, and first-class entertainment. Stay tuned for updates!
💛 In Closing
This November, let us keep faith with those who served and continue to live the ideals of Service Above Self. May our gratitude inspire action, and our remembrance kindle hope for peace.
See you Thursday!
Yours in Rotary Service,
Stephen B. Smith
President, West U Rotary Club
