The day had arrived. The changing of the guard. But first, Lansing Rotary’s regularly scheduled events. President Darwin called Lansing Rotary to order for the last time. Courtney Milbrook gave an invocation that was touching and clever. She told us how the divinity must be a Rotarian. Doing good things and encouraging the same from others, etc.

 

Our patriotic song, America the Beautiful, was ably led by Ken Beachler. But it descended into an unintended “round” at the far end of the room. Heartfelt but “not ready for prime time.” Jennifer Marsh did the honors for the introduction of Rotarians, visiting Rotarians, and guests. There were lots of guests. Including the wives and families of Kevin Schumacher and Darwin Brewster. A special guest was Margaret Bates, wife of the late Jack Bates who was an example of a Rotary life well-lived.

 

Jeff Crippen reported that the health of the club is good. Todd Gute, chair of June Birthdays asked June Rotarians what they looked forward to doing in the new Rotary Park when it is completed. More than one Rotarian said, “Not tipping my kayak.” A few said, “Having fun with the family.” And there were a number of food-related responses. “P.I.C.N.I.C” and “Try all the food trucks.” And our beloved Jim McGillicuddy asked, “What’s the difference between Jurrasic Park and Rotary Park?” Answer: “One is populated by dinosaurs and the other is a Steven Spielberg movie.” That set the tone for the roast.

 

We learned that because of the recent flooding and damage in Houghton, Michigan, in the Upper Peninsula, Lansing Rotary responded to the Rotary Club of Houghton’s request for help by sending a $2,000 contribution to the Rotary Club of Houghton to help in the recovery efforts.

 

Debbie Harrison sent a very nice note to the club expressing her gratitude and warm regards for Lansing Rotary’s sending our Rotary wheel to the funeral and for all of the Rotarians who reached out to her and recently deceased Rotarian Michael Harrison’s family upon his death.

 

Ken Beachler introduced our “Special Music.” And man, was it special. Pat Hanes on guitar and Keven Schumacher on vocals. They sang a modified Jimmy Buffet song. Revised and dedicated to President Darwin. “My Head Hurts, My Feet Stink, 2 and…” You get the picture. Their second song was based (loosely) on Jim Croce’s Roller Derby Queen. The duo had help from the indomitable Kelly Rossman and a lamp brought to the podium. The lamp was actually a leg in a fishnet stocking (think of the movie A Christmas Story. President Darwin’s favorite movie.) As the trio sang, President Darwin pulled the string and turned the lamp On and Off and On and Off. After that song President Darwin actually gave a sincere pitch for everyone to see the movie if they haven’t. Or to see it again if they’ve seen it once.

 

The reconfigured roasting committee, called itself the “Organizers of Frivolous Affairs” with Kevin Schumacher replacing Dave Marvin who passed on… to another Rotary Club. Yes. We noticed a difference.

 

First up was Kelly Rossman. Yup. As you would guess, she was colorful and quick. “Darwin longs to be free of his mundane existence and engages in elaborate daydreams.” These featured cameos by Barney Fife, The Incredible Mr. Limpet, and even Mr. Burns from the Simpsons.

 

Lisa Smith was next. In true Lansing Rotary fashion there were “technical difficulties.” The entire Lansing Center crew helped out but the day was saved by Tobi Lyon Moore. Thanks Tobi. Lisa told us about “words President Darwin actually thinks exist.” We all know that magical place for which our clubs buys BioSand Filters, the Dominion Republic. Populated by “D’Minions.” (There are even a movies about them.) Other words Lisa shared from her “many long and frequent talks” with President Darwin included, “Re-intarnation” “Beezle-bug” and “Ignoranus.” Lisa can fill you in on the Darwin-meaning of these and several others.

 

President-elect Dennis Fliehman pinned and plaqued and thanked out-going President Darwin. He then allowed him to speak despite the nearness of the “witching hour” of 1:30 when usually all Rotarians disappear. They sat tight in their seats this day. President Darwin pinned President-elect Fliehman and thanked him for his upcoming service. Darwin also gave a big thanks to Cathy Andrews, our club’s executive assistant, without whom out club and foundation would not be the same. He thanked Melody Warzecha for keeping our foundation’s books in order. He thanked Suzy Carter our out-going Club Secretary of both the foundation and club boards. He thanked Lansing Rotary’s 3 committee chairs. President Darwin explained that when the board realized that the club had a balance that exceeded our required reserve, the decision was made to give back to the community. Of that he was proud. Darwin also thanked East Lansing Rotarian Nathan Triplett who was very helpful through the year.

 

We were reminded that we would not be meeting on Friday, July 6th because of the 4th of July holiday.  Our next meeting will be July 13th at the Crowne Plaza Hotel where we will hear our 6360 District Governor.  then, for the last time, President Darwin said we would be donating money to our Bio Sand Filter pure water project in the Dominion Republic.  We love you and thank you Darwin.

 

Helen Micken's email is:  hpmickens@gmail.com