Meeting Notes and Club News Wednesday, July 10, 2002
Volume 61, Issue 51		Written and reported by Bill Schenk

President Bill's demotion night was successfully implemented by host Past-President Wally Bartelt and wife Linda..

Bill Mathy led the assembled club and spouses in a traditional rendering of the Pledge of Allegiance.. Although those in attendance were properly attired in Barbershop Quartet uniforms, the singing part of the usual opening ceremonies was waived.. Nate Kvetny gave the Thought for the Day, which included a recording of the inspiration song Proud to be an American in the good old USA.

Wally introduced dignitaries that included the dear departing Bill Peloquin and First Lady Wilma, Past District Governor Price Shapiro and Debbie, Assistant District Governor Owen Dean and Sylvia, President Elect Mike Oats and Elizabeth.

After a fabulous dinner Master of Ceremonies Wally presented the audience with an slide slow highlighting the remarkable Rotary year that was helmed by the soon to be demoted Prez Bill.. As a salute to the nearly departed, several slides depicted Dr. Peloquin in a more casual persona than usual. (Bill in his dancin' pants, and the excited reindeer costume were crowd favorites)!

Besides the photographs, Bill was further surprised by the arrival of 35 members of the Orange Empire Chorus who serenaded the club with several songs to honor Bill.

Bob Bean honored new Paul Harris Fellows and Ray and Ruth Ashcroft presented Bill and Wilma with a beautifully and lovingly assembled scrapbook to commemorate his highly successful year as Fullerton Rotary President.

Bill made several presentations himself as he recognized his board of directors during his tenure.

President Bill's last official act was announcing and awarding the Rotarian of the Year award. For good works and good humor, Sgt. Major Dr. James Blackburn was awarded Rotarian of the Year honors.. This award is usually awarded at no charge to the recipient but Jim will probably have to pay for his since he scooted the demotion dinner early and missed his own presentation. No doubt Former President Bill will attempt this presentation again in the near future.

Dr. Peloquin announced that he enjoyed being Fullerton Rotary President almost as much as the club enjoyed his leadership and then accepted his past presidents pin and presented Mike Oates with his own Presidents Pin.

Ray Ashcroft sang a benediction and the 2002 demotion night came to and end.