ALL THE PRESIDENT’S MEN & WOMEN

Tuesday was the changing of the card as we bid a fond farewell to the presidential rule of President Dale Chilcote and ushered in the new reign of President Mike Meindertsma and the directors who will serve with him.

President Dale called the meeting to order: “I have power for 20 more minutes.” There were cheers as we got down to business. It was unclear whether the cheer was because Dale was leaving…or because Dale was leaving.

Christopher Cox gave the invocation and the Kingsley Trio implored us to overcome as they had us sing the traditional folk song “We Shall Overcome.” Most often associated with Pete Seeger it became the anthem of the 60s Civil Rights Movement. An appropriate song as we head into Independence Day.

Dale introduced visiting Rotarians, but neglected our guests, which new President-to-be Mike reminded him of and Mike showed his leadership moxie with his first Presidential act (prior to induction) and introduced his own family and other guests. Much frivolity ensued and one might think it was almost planned.

Numerous announcements followed: Mike announced that Single Mom’s was the recipient charity of proceeds from the annual Rotary-Kiwanis Golf Outing. Sharron Zimmerman gave an update on World Community Service. The committee received over $8000 from the club, which will be parlayed into much more through the foundation. John Noonan put out a call for anyone available on Thursday afternoons throughout the summer months to assist in the ongoing clean-up of the Coal Dock property.

Kevin Kelly, Major Gifts Officer for Rotary Zone 29, recognized Al Bonney (and wife Joan) for generosity, now being named as a Major Donor based on their cumulative giving.

Emma Moyer introduced our newest Rotarian: Alexis Juett, Mother and realtor with Remax-Bayshore. Please be sure and welcome Alexis over the next few weeks.

President Dale then proceeded to make a few comments on the past year under his gavel. He spoke of the honor that the position carries, and the honor he has felt along the way. He thanked all the committees who he noted as the engine that makes the club work, and the many opportunities the position afforded him. He thanked those who mentored him. And spoke about paying that forward.

Al Bonney then came up to run the installation of new President Mike and the board and officers who will serve with him, by calling them all to the dais. Thanking those who are leaving for their past service and the new directors for the leadership they will bring to the organization. He then called up all past presidents in attendance. He turned the mic over to them and they each offered a short piece of advice to incoming President Mike. Following that with the official induction.

President Mike then made a few comments about the expectations he has for himself this year and where he hopes he can lead the club during his tenure. First he unveiled this year’s theme “Rotary Serving Humanity.” He spoke to the pride he holds in his membership of 26 years; to those who have preceded him past and present members; to the changes he has seen over the years to the club.

In Mike’s ever jocular way he shared his overarching goals: to have fun, and not screw things up! He then proffered his Top 10 List for why Rotary perseveres.