President's Pen

Posted by Rich Randolph on Feb 03, 2019
President's Pen
Why? 
What is it that kept Mike Kelly and Ross Andress active, full and productive lives so willing to engage so much of their time and talent in Rotary?
When did you see Mike and Ross in their full stride, wide smile, enthusiastic mode?
Where were Mike and Ross most happy?
For over 40 years Mike and Ross created,  developed and promoted  Goodwill and Better Friendships, exercised high ethical standards and advanced international understanding through their professions, club activities and community leadership.  Both Mike and Ross career's included Real Estate, requiring  specialized knowledge and a level of trust and integrity in a highly competitive market.
Both Mike and Ross valued life-long learning, not only in vocation but avocation as well.  Ross was a master smoker of fish, meat and veggies. As a jeweler, his bling brought "yes" to many a proposal, and his fine craftsmanship in custom pen production is unmatched.  Mike could have produced his own sport fishing network.  Fish in fresh and saltwater fled when Mike's gear was near.  It wouldn't surprise me if scores of schools of them are conspiring their own celebration of Mike's new basecamp.  Watch out honeybees! 
Mike's successor may not be as kind, especially when it comes to payback for stinging the hand that feeds them.  For these two men, Service Above Self did not come across as a sacrifice:  They loved to give of themselves. 
They made salads for homeless, scones for Interactors, and visiting friends!  Drove hundreds of miles  showing off Sonoma County, inspiring  youth, by example, that he who serves most, gains most.  Even if my wager at the County Fair horse races didn't win, place or show, my time around Mike and the fans he attracted was a trifecta bonus.  For all of who delivered packages to Valley of the Moon Children's Shelter with Elsie Allen Interactors, the echo of discovering the joy in giving continues to resonate.
These are just a few of my recollections of only ten years with Ross and Mike, and you!  For those of you with longer history, share the memories!  Let Lou Ann and Stacy know how their husband enriched, touched inspired you.  Surprise each other with a tale or two of times together. Their response to the opportunity afforded them upon joining  Sunrise expresses everything Rotary hopes to inspire:  Service, Fellowship, Fun, Generosity, Leadership.
Why?  it's obvious Mike and Ross wanted to give of themselves.
When we didn't see Ross and Mike in full swing, they were asleep.
Where these two men are known, everyone is happy!
Cheers for these two who have left us without a shadow of doubt about lives lived  well.  Lives whose legacies are something  for the Front Page!
 
 
 
Sponsors