President Ellen shares her reflections on a successful 2024!
 
Happy New Year!
 
As you reflect on all that was accomplished in 2024 and the life events that we shared, I hope it brings you a smile and at least one chuckle. May the coming year be filled with continued joy, good health and shared experiences. I don’t really believe in resolutions per se – let’s call them goals for the days ahead. May your goals be an attainable reach and bring your soul joy and contentment. I look forward to completing the first quarter century with our usual bustle of good deeds and better times.
 
For those who missed the Christmas party – and because I know this will come back to haunt me anyway – here are the words I spoke at Christmas party (I think you will agree that I should not plan to quit my day job to become the Santa Barbara poet laureate).
12 Months of Rotary
On my first month as president, Rotary gave to me:
An exchange student from Brazil
Second month- 2 dolphins dancing 
Third month – 3 back-to-school outfits 
Fourth month - 4 school composters and gardens
Fifth month - 5 kids to RYLA
Sixth month - 6 cataract surgeries
Seventh month - 7 Naxalone trainers
Eighth month - 8 cheerful bell ringers
Ninth month - 9 aquaponic systems running
Tenth month - 10 productive programs
Eleventh month – 11 amazing happy hours
Twelfth month – 12 active new members
 
Dolphin Derby Ode
T’was the night before the Dolphin Derby and all through Eric’s office
everything was bustling and activity flawless
 
The dolphins were numbered and packed away tight
awaiting release and ready to take flight
 
The posters were hung, press releases sent,
social media bombarded
the publicity team was spent
 
The next morning came and the members
were there in full swing
ready to get going - dressed in Rotary bling
 
They moved the pop-ups from here to there and back
put up signs, laid out blankets, and filled in the cracks
 
Some helped fence in the adult beverage locale
and when they were done the Dolphins went on sale (rent does not rhyme)
 
The Slide held up and the water ran through
a good time was had by all – not just a few!
 
A special thanks to all who put on the show
it was team effort to make it all go!
 
As we reflect on a year of fun and good deeds
and see how as Rotarians we’ve planted the seeds
to spread our good will to communities near and far
may there be peace and joy be in your heart where ever you are
 
Yours in Service
Ellen