WASN'T THAT A PARTY?! June 13th was an evening to recognize Rotary President Peter Malone, surrounded by friends, colleagues, guests and of course, Suzanne, his spouse who has been there for him during his year as Rotary President, listening to his "outside the box" suggestions and offering wise counsel. Sporting a tee-shirt of The Who in the spirit of the British Invasion theme, Peter had to explain to some of the younger generation who The Who were. He proudly made cheque presentations to the Children's Foundation and the YMCA Centre for Life (see separate stories on these presentations). Peter's first task was to oversee who would win the prize for the best British Invasion costume and without a doubt, Dr. Ruth Mathieson won hands down with second and third prize going to Shannon Neely and Kim McKinney.
Peter went on to present "awards" to those who have supported him and the Rotary Club this past year. The Rosalie Cup of Tea award went to Vice-President Tracey Vandervoort for her laid back personality in focusing on what needed to be done, calmly. The Queen and Country Award went to Collin Myers for getting involved early on in the Rotary Refresh project and having to part with the toast to the Queen. The Queen's Plate will find a special spot in his home or office. The Queen Mother Award went to Past President Tracy Bray for making sure everyone else was okay. Her big heart was ever present. Host and hostess with the mostes went to Shannon and Marida for all their hospitality in hosting the President's Night. The Big Ben Award was given to Secretary Jo-Anne Wheeler who was always on time, organized and welcoming to everyone. She kept the Board on track with Big Ben accuracy and played a pivotal role for the Club. She also earned a Warrior Pin.
Peter thanked the Board of Directors for creating momentum that will build going forward. To all the Committee Chairs who busily carry on, often behind the scenes, but an integral part of the overall running of the Club. Michael Summers and his photography and technical support at every meeting and Paul Ferguson for his original and captivating emails, nudging the membership along.
The highlight of the evening may have been Rotarian Kim McKinney's jump in the pool, spontaneous for sure or at least based on the surprise on everyone's face, it was not planned except by Kim. And Suzanne shared her part in the jokes that Peter has shared all year. This time last year she was in Toronto and bought Peter a Book of Dad Jokes as a Father's Day gift. Well, now you know the rest of the story.