Twas a month before the new year, when all through the houseNot a creature was stirring, not even my spouse.
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,
And I was dreaming about Rotary and what we all share.
Rotarians were nestled all snug in their beds,
While celebrations of the past 100 years danced in their heads.
Wife Jeannie in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap,
Had just fallen asleep for a long-needed nap.
While celebrations of the past 100 years danced in their heads.
Wife Jeannie in her ‘kerchief, and I in my cap,
Had just fallen asleep for a long-needed nap.
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.
I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.
Visions of the next 100 years were approaching on new-fallen snow
With ideas and plans bright as mid-day to the Rotarians below.
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But even more supportive workers doing even greater service next year.
With ideas and plans bright as mid-day to the Rotarians below.
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But even more supportive workers doing even greater service next year.
Our plans and our outcomes were lively and quick,
I knew in a moment that Rotary would stick.
More rapid than eagles the projects did come.
New members whistled, and shouted, and said “we want to do some!”
I knew in a moment that Rotary would stick.
More rapid than eagles the projects did come.
New members whistled, and shouted, and said “we want to do some!”
"Now Steve! Now, Robert! Now, Kelso and Rod!
Lead us into the new year with wisdom and laud!
Board members and committees you said “yes” when service called!
And so did other members who are appreciated by all!"
Lead us into the new year with wisdom and laud!
Board members and committees you said “yes” when service called!
And so did other members who are appreciated by all!"
More wonderful projects…and programs…and ideas began zipping by.
I looked out and saw the 4-Way Test written in the sky.
We think, say, and do what is fair and the truth.
I looked out and saw the 4-Way Test written in the sky.
We think, say, and do what is fair and the truth.
Building goodwill and better friendships is our foundational proof.
I finally awakened and saw you sitting here
Enjoying the holidays and our Rotary cheer.
May the next 100 years of vision be as clear as our sight.
Doing service with others……….and wishing you a good night.
By President Elect Nominee Del Benson