Ed Wanner gives an inspirational Classification Talk 082416

Ed Wanner gives his Classification Talk.

With humor and enthusiasm, new Club member Ed Wanner gave an inspirational Classification Talk last Wednesday.

Ed works at MV Advancements, which helps adults with developmental disabilities reach their highest potential and achieve fulfilling lives. He is obviously passionate about his work, and his journey from a pizza-store owner to his current career was full of amazing stories.

For example: Ed had some negative experiences at first employing people with developmental disabilities at his store. But then one fellow came along who changed Ed’s point of view completely. This person said his dream job was to work at Ed’s pizza place, and he kept showing up until Ed hired him.  This person’s determination, attitude and growth in the job, in spite of his disability, is the reason Ed is no longer in pizzas!

Ed quoted Tommy Lasorda, “The difference between the possible and the impossible lies in a person’s determination.” This employee showed Ed that we all have talents.  “We just have to find them, and then match them up with work we can do,” he said.

We got some insights into how Ed functions, too. Like, how he does long-term planning.  (“It’s deciding what’s for dinner.”) And how he overcomes obstacles, like a fear of needles.  (“I scheduled myself to give blood. You have to get over it to do that, don’t you?”)  And what motivates him. (“Goal setting.”) Like trying to set a “personal best” record time for giving blood, or winning a fund-raising contest in McMinnville by $30 raised in the final moments!

Ed shared that he has been married to his wife Cheryl for 40 years, and they have two kids. He also likes travel and adventure. He has biked the Coast from Washington to California, and has been to Copenhagen and Disneyland (many times) with his clients.   And now he’s leaving for a trip to Iceland in about 3 weeks……Nice to have you in the club, Ed.

Our visitors

Visiting Rotarian Britt Dudek from Wenatchee, Washington attended our meeting. When questioned as to what brought him to Newberg, he confessed: a new girlfriend!

Mike Caruso introduced Michael Pollock, who has now applied for membership in our Club. Om had two guests: Elaine Burke and Sharon Champaigne.

An opportunity to socialize with other service clubs

The Morning Club is hosting a get-together at Dr. David Krier’s place in St. Paul to bring some of the service clubs together for a time of networking and fellowship.  The BBQ/potluck will feature a pig specially roasted by Dr. Krier.

The details:

Thursday, Sept. 8th; 5 to 8 pm; 18891 River Rd. N.E., St. Paul

Bring a potluck dish, your chairs and beverage.  Roast pork provided!

Please RSVP to Leah Griffith by Sept. 5.

Don’t forget Britta Stewart’s presentation on Aug. 30th

Did you catch the recent great article in the Graphic about Britta and her work?  Our summer intern will discuss the history of Rotary in a presentation scheduled for 7 pm.  Sponsored by the Newberg-area Historical Society.  Location is Friendsview’s Springbrook Meadows Community Building, 4061 Hayes  St.