Outgoing president Paulette Renault gave a slide presentation on her term in office to wrap up the Rotary year. Renault spoke about the return of in-person special events including Hula-for-Loota, movie night, and social gatherings. She applauded various service projects such as reading in schools, bell ringing for the Salvation Army, being able to fund a ShelterBox donation, sending six youth to this year’s Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA), and raising money for scholarships for graduating high school seniors. She noted the successful meeting relocation to the St. Mary’s Parish Center and the addition of five new members (although 15 members departed mainly due to leaving the area). Renault labeled it a year of impact and fun.
Paulette shared her experience in getting involved with Rotary as a guide for bringing new members into the club. She said it began with an invitation to a meeting. This led to an invitation to membership, and then an invitation to join the board leading to her commitment to eventually become president. She called it an “interesting” journey and said she fully enjoyed it.
Renault concluded her remarks with a quote from Nelson Mandela, “We must use time wisely and forever realize that the time is always ripe to do right.” A standing ovation of thank you was given outgoing Rotary President Paulette Renault.