Monte McAllister introduced Greg saying that Greg Grant entered Rotary at 22 years of age. Greg discussed his early years in Rotary and displayed a 1950-51 RCOB Roster on which cover is written – “He profits most, is he who serves most.”
As a young man, Greg discerned an incredible opportunity for young members to learn from other seasoned Rotary members. He recalled the numbers of Bellingham establishment leaders who participated in Rotary. These leaders were often hospitable and willing to mentor the ‘up and coming’ younger members.
In this context, Greg offered a story of the important first arrival of the Alaskan Ferry at Bellingham’s docks. He was involved in setting up the electrical wiring required to service the ship. This was a unique task due to the required electrical capacity for a boat the size of the Alaska Ferry. At first, it appeared that local sources were inadequate for supplying electrical wiring with sufficient gauge. Greg then made an appeal to knowledgeable local Rotary members, and they came forth with the wiring needed.
Greg’s later experience working in the Real Estate and Property Management Industry of Whatcom County and Washington State prepared him to offer up tidbits of wisdom worthy of remembering. One such tidbit is “Be informed and know what is going on in all levels of government.”
The remainder of Greg’s presentation centered on his incredible collection of classic Lincoln vehicles with stories about local personages and their vehicles.
One of those people was Olive Morse, yes, a distant relative of our Bob Morse. Olive’s husband had purchased a new Lincoln Continental Mark II but died before taking delivery. This Lincoln at the time cost more than many new homes. Olive enjoyed driving the Continental Mark II and once after having consumed some questionable beverages, pulled into a Highway Patrol Station. Many State Patrol stations have ‘pull up for service’ type windows for dealing with licensing issues. Olive pulled up to the window and told the policeman she wanted to order a hamburger and milk shake. The Highway Patrol took charge of dear Olive and drove her home. No citation.
Greg eventually sought and purchased this vehicle. He named it the Morse Hardware Continental Mark II.
This presentation included many photos of Lincolns. Did you know that Santa Claus drove a red Lincoln convertible? In his closing Greg Grant reminded us that Paul Harris called us to high standards. Those standards encourage Rotarians to share in whatever way possible. There are no doubt Greg’s stories have the capacity to motivate many.
Greg also promised a meeting and tour to be held at the Museum next July.
Closing:
President Nathan closed the meeting by calling our attention to the four-way-test of Rotary:
Is it true?
Is it fair to all concerned?
Will it build goodwill and better friendship?
Will it be beneficial to all concerned?
