Former President George Bush said he was disappointed in being in Congress,…  it was not like when he ran a company and could come up with ideas; and then get them done.   So too,  I could not accomplish much this year without my officers and board members. But they alone could not do it without the full cooperation of the members of  Rotary.. I thank you all.     I also need to thank my wife, Fran, for all her understanding for having to deal with a Rotary President this past year!!

Before I turn the gavel over to the new President, I would like to relay a story.  A story that comes from the Special Olympics program. It happened during a running race.  The runners were off and going when one of them fell down, and the rest of the participants when they saw it; turned around and went back to help. They lifted the runner up and then they all linked arms and finished the race as ONE.

I like to think that this is what we did this past year.  Heavens knows I missed a few steps, but you all came to help. I think we all finished the race together, and we all can accept the applause for what we accomplished.  I know you always take a chance when you make a list….I hope I haven't missed anyone, so here goes…….

• The Birthday Library Books.(thanks Ira and Karen) 
  
• The trailer full of books for Africa. (thanks Bob Perry, et.al.)
  
• The Christmas Tree Program. (thanks Karen and Greg Leonard))
  
• The Groton White Lights Holiday Parade and giving our VIP tickets to that deserving couple. (thanks Vicki and Lee)
  
• Our Annual Televised Auction (thanks, Walt Doolittle, Ed Kolar, Larry Lewis, Teddy, et..al.)
  
• The Annual Rose Sale (thanks, Greg, et.al.)