Founded in 1914 in Virginia

The Virginia International Tattoo

Posted by Mark Johnson on Apr 10, 2017
 
 
Virginia Arts Festival General Manager, Scott Jackson (l), French Air Force Lt. Col. Yves Lugand (c), and Bryce Burton.
 
Club Program  
 
Rotarian Cynthia Carter-West introduced Scott Jackson, General Manager of the Virginia Arts Festival. Scott talked about the history of the International Tattoo which has grown over the past 20+ years. Today, it is recognized as among the best in the world.
 
Putting on the Tattoo is highly complex with multiple bands and other performers to meld into a cohesive show in about three days. This year, there are performers from 49 states and 13 countries.    Jackson told an amusing story of one of his many experiences. He chooses to stay at a downtown hotel during the Tattoo week and normally wakes up early. One year, he awoke amazingly refreshed. Then he noticed that the sun was shining brightly and looked at his watch. It was 10:20 a.m. and there was a Tattoo performance at 10:30. So he dashed from the hotel, running to Scope and arrived, out of breath just in time and ran into his boss on the Scope plaza. 
 
In addition to the nighttime performances, the Tattoo also provides outreach to students in the Hampton Roads area. At some point during either the 5th or 6th grade, students will have an opportunity to witness the Tattoo.
 
The French Air Force Band is one of the bands participating in this year’s Tattoo.  Lieutenant Colonel OF4 Yves Lugand is currently stationed at NATO and gave an overview of the French Air Force Band. The Band was born in 1936 and still operates in the tradition of the Air Force tradition. Logistics for this trip is highly complex and has been underway for the past two years. 
 
Part of the planning for this year’s Tattoo includes recognition of the entrance of America into World War I in 1917. The War was a surprise to many Europeans as they had been in a period of peace and thought that all disputes among nations could be resolved by diplomacy. The last American serving in World War I was Frank Buckles who died in 2011. 
 
Rotarians enjoyed a presentation by three members of the Old Dominion University Band Drum Line which played three different selections. 
 
A book was provided to the school of the week, Larchmont Elementary, in recognition of Scott Jackson.
 
The Meeting  Sigur Whitaker accompanied by Pam Tubbs led the opening up of the April 4 Norfolk Rotary Club Meeting  The 4 Way Test followed by the song Grand Ole Flag.
 
Barry Kesser provided a thoughtful invocation.
 
Visitation Report:  Jean Owens reported that Bill Burnett is doing better should return to the club meeting soon.  Julie Keesling’s brother-in-law passed away.   
 
Introduction of Guests:  Dr. Steve Jones introduced Stacey Franklin Jones, Provost of Norfolk State University.  Stacey was previously a member of the Elizabeth City Rotary Club.   Diane Wallach introduced her in-laws, Carol and Steve Wallach.
 
April Birthdays – Happy Birthday was sung to all of the members whose birthdays are in April 2017.
 
Club Announcements:
  • A condolence card was provided to Rotary Club member Laurie Harrison, whose father passed away suddenly.
  • Rotary Club members were asked to report March meeting make ups to Jane Dembert by April 13.
  • Marty Raiss mentioned the need to sell out tickets for Suds & Buds event. Regarding the Wine Pull, we have 65 bottles of wine in and are looking for more from members.
  • Dues and Meal invoices have been emailed out.  If members did not get an email or need a printed invoice, please sign the list at the check in table or contact Jane Dembert. 
  • Rotary Club members were asked to make their annual donation to the Rotary Foundation soon for EREY!!
Happy Bucks & Fines
  • Lisa Sands gave some Happy Bucks on behalf of Jim Kitz for participating with him in Reach Reads
  • Eleanor Schoonover gave on behalf of Ben Mason’s daughter.  Ben also gave in addition to this.
  • Sigur Whitaker is celebrating  UNC’s  winning the NCAA National Basketball Championship
  • Happy Bucks were given on behalf of Winston Whitehurst Sr. and Mark Johnson’s birthdays
  • Pam Tubbs contributed Happy Bucks in honor of the Lady Gamecocks winning the NCAA National Women’s Basketball Championship.