High Gear Bulletin

 

Wednesday, MARCH 12, 2025

High Gear Editor: Joe La Mariana

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Celebrating Snakes and a Green Saint…Paddy!
 
President Phil Siegle really brought the juice with his electric intro this week. We stepped into a beautiful St. Patrick’s Day décor and a time-tested corned beef and cabbage lunch prepared by our favorite Irish caterer, O’Esposto’s...doesn’t get any more authentic than THAT people. Our décor committee nailed it! Just don’t be like moody Rick in White Lotus because he unleashed all the vipers. And that would be a very bad thing.
 
Our distinguished guest list included Jesus Nava (also known as the “Mexican Coppola”), Mark Lucchesi, and Phil’s neighbor, Don Klaiss.
 
Past President Carol Tanzi gave an invocation message of inspiration and self-awareness. Announcements followed.
 
Announcements:
 
* Sunshine was not so sunny as we learned the sad news that our dear fellow Rotarian, Delia Montano, recently lost her beloved brother. Delia’s had a rough time recently and so could really use a big dose of love and prayers right about now. Bring it on!
 
* Jennifer Pence is seeking a few more volunteers to participate in mock interviews with juniors and seniors at Burlingame High School on April 10th and 17th (10am-noon).
 
* Past President Bob Doerr shared a recent visit to the Hindu Community & Cultural Center in the East Bay to celebrate their silver anniversary. Our club’s congratulatory wishes were acknowledged with a fancy plaque.
 
 
 
* Past President Marilyn Orr shared the giddy news that our club netted $30k from our big 100th anniversary extravaganza. It was an incredible event, and we were able to raise some big bucks to help our community. Not a bad little day at the office! A job well done to the planning community and our giving sponsors!!!
 
Newscast +
 
After these announcements, Nimisha Melag and Jennifer Pence entertained us with a playful round of 2 Truths and a Lie. We learned that Nimisha has traveled to 52 countries and makes a mean butter chicken…but, alas, she’s only made it to one Disneyland.  So sad☹
 
 
 
Program:
 
The 5 Pillars of Building a Champion
 
Past President and esquire Dennis Zell made a cameo appearance to introduce our guest speaker, Doc Scheppler, Head Coach of Los Altos’ legendary Pinewood High School Girl’s Basketball program. Familiar name you say? His dad was a longtime Burlingame Rotary member and Past President…Doc Scheppler. Yes, THAT Doc Scheppler. Doc was well-loved and was the real deal. Coach Doc was accompanied by assistant coach Nikki Nakano, and several of their star team members Joylin Ding, Katherine Garr and Valerie Kuelker. These ladies are great athletes and accomplished students that are on a noble path forward in life. Our future is very bright indeed!
 
Coach Schepler spoke about his 5 proven pillars to his program’s stellar success. They are:
 
  • Work ethics
  • Coachability
  • Selflessness
  • Resilience
  • Believe
Coach gave many examples of how these pillars have been the secret sauce for his program’s success…which has resulted in five, yes, five, state championships.
Play ball ladies!
 
 
 
President Phil closed out the meeting, thanking Doc for his appearance. He presented him with a certificate noting that the Club will be donating five polio vaccinations to mark his visit.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Speakers
Mar 26, 2025 12:15 PM
From Fighter Jets to Fast Cars: The Wild Ride of a True Car Aficionado
From Fighter Jets to Fast Cars: The Wild Ride of a True Car Aficionado

A true "Car Nut," Ed will share his remarkable journey—from Devil’s Lake, ND, to serving as an Air Force officer, becoming a Hell’s Angel member, rising to Pebble Beach Concours Chief Judge, and beyond.

Apr 02, 2025 12:15 PM
From Kitchen to Career: Chef Timothy’s Recipe for Culinary Success & Community Impact
Apr 09, 2025 12:15 PM
Priceless Gems: The Evolution of Baseball Cards
Apr 16, 2025 12:15 PM
County Update with Supervisor David J. Canepa
May 07, 2025 12:15 PM
America’s Public Lands: Looking Back and Ahead
View entire list
Member Birthdays
Joseph DiMaio
March 8
 
James Young
March 10
 
Anniversaries
Cheryl Fama
Denis Fama
March 19