Northwind - June 25, 2010 Induction Dinner

Introduction of Guests
I'm sorry I didn't record the names of all of our guests.  There were many and we were happy to have them.  Stan came with an entourage of four family members.
 
Program
Soon to be Past President Chuck acknowledged the outgoing Board officers and thanked them for their service.  These are Randy, Tim V., Gary T and Tony.  He also welcomed new officers Laurie, Jake and Tim C.
 
Past President Chuck expressed our sadness for the passing of Bob Bowman and Norm Rauch.  Several members resigned from the club this year, and we welcomed new members, including Rocky, Norm and Larry.  He also acknowledged this was a challenging year for our club in many ways.
 
In other ways it was a highly productive year, and Past President Chuck's final speech included a list of the year's accomplishments.  These include "buying a pig," building tables and donating computers to Meridian High School, Bell Ringing, Youth Service Awards, the Foundation Dinner, the Career Fair, contributions to FFA, 4H, the Literacy Council, Humane Society, our successful auction and raffle, the Adopt-A-Highway effort, Club in a Club meeting and the Group Study Exchange.
 
Now retiring from Rotary, Jim Bliss was honored for 33 years as a member of WCNR.  Stan Bruner displayed the six banners Jim brought into the club and Jim got a standing ovation from all in attendance. President Chuck expressed our hope that Jim will visit often; he will always be welcome!
 
Past President Chuck expressed appreciation for Ton Cubelis for his service as Club Secretary.  Tim C. received a special pin in recognition of his work on behalf of the Foundation.  Gary T. was presented with a card and special fishing net as a thank you for five years as Club Treasurer. 
 
Installation of Officers
Before installing the new officers (and presenting them with gifts of chocolate) Asst. District Governor Orphalee Smith said she was impressed with all the good works we do in the community, especially for a small club.
 
New President's Address
Marlene addressed the club for the first time as President Marlene.  From Montreal, she brought back the challenge of "Biger, better, bolder!"  She's proud to be a second generation Rotarian and she'll be focused this year on productivity and fun.  She is dedicating her presidency to her Dad.  She wants to have a year that would make him proud, and wants each of us to have a WNRC we can be proud of.
 
Finally, she unveiled the banner for this Rotary year along with the year's theme:  "Building Communities, Bridging Continents".
 
Tim V.  recognized club members with 100% attendance.  About 1/3 of members have 100% attendance.  The real stars are:   Jim Bliss with 33 years, Dick Donahue with 35, Stan with 35, and Mel with 38!  Congratulations.
 
The evening concluded around 7:30 pm.