Rotary Happenings: Rotarians hear from licensed Gettysburg Battlefield guide
The Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club is all about redefining itself annually to maintain its relevance in the fast-paced ever-changing ways of the world. Yet, even with forward progression, it is important to look back upon the past for lessons learned and appreciated. This is an annual event for all of Rotary, redefining and recreating. We all celebrate the moments of the past year and look forward to the upcoming year with new leadership and ideas. While we celebrate all the hard work and creative ways past San-Cap Rotary Club President Richard Green has led us through the previous, very tumultuous year, we look with excited anticipation to the upcoming year with President Bill Letendre.
Bill Trelease was the guest speaker for the club’s recent meeting. A licensed Gettysburg Battlefield guide, he spoke on how the Battle of Gettysburg became one of the defining moments in the nation’s history and, more specifically, the leader of the winning Union Army — Maj. Gen. George Gordon Meade. Trelease shared many interesting facts about the build up to the battle and the many persons who played a vital role in the Civil War.
After retiring from a 40-year career in the insurance business, Trelease decided to pursue his lifelong passion — Civil War history. In 2014, he passed the necessary examinations to become a licensed guide in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Since receiving his license, Trelease has had the honor of taking hundreds of visitors on the hallowed grounds of Gettysburg, retelling the stories of a battle that had a great impact on the history of the country.
The Sanibel-Captiva Rotary Club holds a meeting on Fridays at 7:30 a.m. at the Dunes Golf and Tennis Club, at 949 Sand Castle Road, Sanibel, and via Zoom. To attend in person, email Bill Harkey at William.Harkey@gmail.com; attendance is limited to 30 people. To take part via Zoom, call 239-472-7257. For more information, visit sanibelrotary.org or www.facebook.com/sancaprotary.