After 16 months of virtual meetings The Rotary Club of Fort Collins began in-person meetings at the Lincoln Center on Wednesday, June 30. Attending members were quick to say how they looked forward to finally meeting in person. Once nicknamed the 'Downtown' club by our Rotarians our club continues the tradition of meeting at a great downtown meeting location. This year we have returned to an old favorite, The Lincoln Center, where our club met for 34 years from 1975 to 2009.
There were many highlights from our meeting;
President Del Benson gave inspiring remarks, highlighting the many achievements of the Club in the 2020-21, despite the challenges of the pandemic. Del spoke to the darker and lighter aspects of the year just completed, including the surprising success of our fund raiser, and the success in attracting some fine new members to replace those lost to attrition. We all thank Del for his service and leadership this past year.
Past president Rob Marschke moved us into a new year leading the meeting as his last official act in that leadership role. He presented plaques and pins to Del Benson, our outgoing President, and to John Trone, our incoming President. The work of our President, Del Benson, was acknowledged, John Trone, our incoming President began his tenure, and outgoing Directors were honoured: Past President Rob Marschke, Jean Lamm and Annette Geiselman. Incoming Directors were also introduced: Evening Chair Kelly Kettler, Dan Mackey, Susan Brand and Kip Turain. Ann Bedient, our new Rotary District 5440 Assistant Governor, was also introduced.