Since I survived last Friday's Demotion Party
unscathed (other than a severely bruised ego), I have
the honor of presiding over one last meeting. In this final
gathering, I have the pleasure of formally handing over the
reins to Nancy Kemp, who will launch the 2007-08
Rotary Year.
Before she does that though, I realize I have one last chance
to reflect, since I was not very "eloquent" at the
Demotion (it's amazing how well-prepared words can just
vaporize when you really need them).
First, I want to thank Don and Georgann
for opening their home to us and for hosting the Demotion. Although
I continually harassed Fultzee, he did a marvelous job of MCing
the event (but I think we all remember why he was presented
with a crown/cape/scepter at his demotion). I also want
to thank The Pokerettes for coordinating the
event and thank those that helped to setup/tear down all of
the tables, chairs, etc. But I hear a special thanks needs to
go to Ellen Davis for going way "above
and beyond". Overall, the entire event really meant a lot
to me, as I'm sure you could tell (wine + nervous energy
= absentminded, emotional Kidd).
This was certainly an eventful year. Two "Future Rotarians"
were born into our club this year: Branden Stewart
in July and then my Aedan (Gil: pronounced
"A'-dan") in October (by the way, I heard
a rumor that another one is on its way; and no, my wife is not
pregnant again). Although sales were down at the County
Fair, our Pulled Pork Sandwiches won the "Staff's
Choice for Best Food Booth." We hosted incoming/outgoing
Rotary Youth Exchange students. We helped to
buy new cameras for NCTV. We awarded $15,000
in scholarships to local students. We raised
thousands of dollars for local organizations, including the
Friendship Club, Kellermann Foundation, Sierra Services for
the Blind, Salvation Army, Innerwheel, Barbara Schmidt-Millar
Foundation, etc. We supported Kyle Bryant to raise awareness
for Ataxia. We even laid the foundation for
a new Rotaract Club to charter in our area.
And the Club was rewarded handsomely with five District awards,
including Club of Excellence. Whew! What
a year...
Finally (and most importantly), I want to thank each
and every one of you for making this a year I will never
forget. It was truly an honor and a pleasure to serve you this
year.
