My appreciation to Tom Nelson for his work with me extends well beyond his diligence on the Rotary Foundation and Paul Harris Fellows. In regards to RI and PHF, he not only exceeded what RI set as goals this year for dollar amount raised and number of Rotarians in our club who are PH Fellows, he also instituted a new way to use our "points" to the benefit of our club and members. He imagined this new process himself and instituted it himself. It is working well and Tom can explain it to you in simple terms, even though it seems complex on the surface. Tom also help me with new member applications and the bylaws and also with writing guidelines for the application process. He gave advice that will help our club in years to come and improved the awarding of points and Paul Harris Fellows that will leave a lasting mark. I relied on his good judgement throughout the year and this is why I honored Tom with the Leading the Way Award, our first/premier/inaugural awardee of this citation. As mentioned when I bestowed this accolade last week, this new award will recognize Rotarians who are moving the club forward with innovative and imaginative ideas for our future success. It is forward looking, in contrast to our other two awards which recognize outstanding Rotarians who have given our club immense service during the past Rotary year.

 

Last week's Paul Harris Fellow, awarded to Jane Hammoud's father - Adam Gehr - was unique. I don't know if we have ever had one awarded without the pin, certificate, or the recipient there! I had to chuckle. Jane's remarks were wonderfully written, especially the descriptive part of his farming. She gave me credit for having done the same thing for my mom this year, which gave her the idea but actually, I was inspired to do the same by Laurel McLeod, who did so, honoring her mother. I like that this keeps "paying itself forward". Honor someone with a Paul Harris Fellowship today!

 

Next week is my last to preside over our illustrious club as president. I have so much to be happy about:  gaining a greater understanding of Rotary and our mission, the willingness of so many members to help in so many ways, lots of fun at our regular meetings, a board that was supportive and creative and insightful, and great conversations and suggestions throughout the year. I was not able to initiate many of the ideas but they were valuable, nonetheless. I wish I could have done more in many areas and many past presidents told me that as soon as it ends, I would wish I would have done things a little differently. This is the case with me, also. I look forward to Alan as president and his new board. They will continue to improve our club and amaze us with great programs and ideas. We will remain a relevant part of Colorado Springs and we are a vital part of the fabric of giving and helping  - through monetary donations and volunteering and being visible to our townspeople throughout the year. We are in good shape financially, we give large sums through our Service Fund, and our members bring guests and nominations for new Rotarians. Keep our club growing with new members.