Last Thursday there were many “Happy and Sad” dollars collected in honor of our new president Jim Herbold and in appreciation of outgoing president Laurie Zimmerli.  The Club members offered “Happy” dollars for Jim taking on the president role this year and “Sad” dollars because we'll miss Laurie.  Although, I think Laurie might have thought the “happy” dollars were more appropriate for her and likewise Jim was sure the “Sad” dollars were his. No matter the perspective, we all send a big “thank you” to Laurie and Jim.

Under the admirable leadership of Lois Hiller with integral infrastructure support from Linda and David Foster, Rotarians either rode or biked in style in this year's Windjammer Parade -- a fine example of Rotary community involvement and exposure.  

Laurie gave a brief good-bye talk, Jim a brief hello talk. Jim gave us an interesting overview (maybe, more like a guess) of how many hours the Club members contribute to the Barn, building maintenance, projects like the Bike Program, outreach like the Windjammer Parade and so much more.  It was a huge number of volunteer hours, as was the probable sales total for this fiscal year at the Barn number, which he presented too. But, both Jim and Laurie’s talk emphasized that we are a Club that works together and we get things done.  We often don't know the contributions of each member, so it was good to be reminded of all the many ways members engage and contribute. It is typical for the outgoing president to appoint a “Rotarian of the Year”, but Laurie just wanted to celebrate all of us. It was a heartfelt thank you to all of us, resoundingly seconded by Jim.   

This Thursday we're taking the night off.  It's July 4th week after all.  Happy Fourth of July. 

Celebrate July 4th at the Rotary Club Barn, open from 8:30 to 11 a.m. We'll have our amazing supply of furniture, household goods, art, collectibles, boats, tools and more.  All donated by our neighbors and turned into programs, projects and donations for local and International nonprofits.  You can shop and do good at the same time at the Big, Gray Rotary Barn. 

The following Thursday we will welcome David Hirzel.  David is a visiting Rotarian from away (California, I think).  He is a frequent speaker at Rotary events and is highly recommended. 

Join us any Thursday, but this week, at 6 p.m. at our Clubhouse 66 Montgomery Road for a buffet dinner, fellowship and an interesting program. We are a diverse group of people who have fun working together towards a better, kinder world.