2103 Marathon for Shoes

First and most important, thank you! Thank you to each and every one of you that were involved in the event and it’s planning in some way. This weekend surpassed my wildest dreams.  Our little 49 member club pulled off an event to be remembered. As Past-President Jeff Selfridge said, “We are the little club that does big things”.

My second thank you is to the leadership team for the Marathon.  Cody, Nick, Patty, Sarah and Erik, your ability to put this all together was second to none.  Pardon the military analogy but I would follow you into battle anytime.  I know this wasn’t easy and it demanded a lot of your time, your sacrifices were noticed and appreciated.

My third thank you goes out to our community.  They reached all corners of the Metro area, different interests, employers, community service groups,  Rotarians from other clubs, bankers, retailers, confirmation students, Linn-Mar and Marion student groups, retirees, many others and even a women’s motorcycle club.   This diverse group came together for a common cause, to help needy children.  It makes it all worthwhile, doesn’t it?  We will put our heads together and try to come up with a proper thank you for the community at a later date but they were all phenomenal. 

I only received one complaint the entire weekend, this was from a spectator.  With the number of athletes, spectators and volunteers, achieving a Six Sigma Process on our first Marathon is mind numbing. (Some of you are googling that, aren’t you?)

I am so proud to call Marion-East Cedar Rapids Rotary my home, my friends and my family.  Give yourself a pat on the back, lift your glasses and reward yourselves for a job well done.  We will celebrate! Rotarians are the best people in the world and I am prouder than words can ever explain to be your President this year.

Yours in Service,

Michelle Bell

Rotary Club of Marion-East Cedar Rapids