President Swope brought the meeting together with a ‘resigned to be here’ ringing of the bell, before leading the assembled Rotarians and guests in the four-way tests. While dutifully reciting our commitment to truth, fairness, goodwill and better friendships, we all patiently awaited what we knew would NOT be beneficial to President Swope.
Our patience was tested through a polite introduction of guests and visiting Rotarians, a moment of respectful silence for the passing of long-time club member Stan Starnes, and assorted announcements that will be listed elsewhere in the Rotogram or will be over by the time this is printed.
A reflection by Courtney Millbrook gave thanks for the gifts of laughter and joy, sought understanding and accepting from our guests, forgiveness for the Seargent at arms committee, and gratitude for the blessings of belonging and service. She also expressed disappointment in the unanswered prayer for someone cool to lead our club, and temperate optimism for the incoming Rotary Angel, Susan.
Special music kicked off -
literally, they kicked Hari off the piano – so that past presidents could get their annual karaoke on to “We are the champions”…. (I
mean, they know they are just symbolic at this point, right? We dust them off annually to show that you actually DO SURVIVE being President, for anyone thinking of taking the leadership leap.) Ahem. Anyway.
The actual special music was introduced by Terry Terry; they got the fun rolling with ‘These Boots are made for walking”, which had President Swope’s toes tapping, no doubt wanting to walk out the door in his fashionable summer loafers. They followed that up with “Fly me to the moon” which certainly fit the ‘take me anywhere but here’ mindset of every Rotary President during their Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Rotary Jeopardy was up next with a much younger-better-looking-smarter-funnier Alex Trebeck (Bobby Hofman), joined by three contestants: Sean Connery (Chris Holman), Burt Reynolds (Jeff Crippen) and Doug. Just Doug. (Lisa Smith). The points were meaningless, the rules questionable and bragging rights for the winner (if there was a winner?) were guaranteed until next week. It was painful, awkward, funny, disjointed and totally entertaining to watch them tackle tough questions across categories that included Take this Job and Shove it, The White Lotus, Men Swear and Men Slaughter, (Sorry – Men’s Wear and Men’s Laughter), potent potables and Aaaaawwww.
President Swope wrapped the final category with gratitude for the organization, pride to be part of it, and a commitment to continued growth and doing good things. I’m guessing Bradly’s pouring ‘em heavy tonight (and totally wish I could join them).
This section of the program was executive produced by
Kevin Schumacher. The editarian was wearing a “Rotarian at work” bright yellow vest, which apparently is the new editarian uniform chosen by
Lolo Robison. Slightly odd, since I thought the goal was to actually ENCOURAGE people to join the committee. Hmm.
We’ll gather at the Irish Pub from 4:30-6pm on June 18th since LCC is closed for Juneteenth. Watch for social sponsorship opportunities coming soon. And, for farm’s sake, visit a local farmer’s market this weekend and choose Michigan-grown produce at your favorite store. (Editarian's privilege).
Email for Michelle Reynaert: mreynaert@michfb.com
We have a service opportunity at the Greater Lansing Food Bank on Tuesday, September 22nd from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. located at 5600 Food Ct., Bath Township. Please let Jason Brunette know if you can help: 