Fellow Rotarians,

This week we begin a new Rotary year.  With that comes annual dues, a new budget, a new club Foundation goal to achieve, new board members and new club officers.  Speaking of dues, if you have not done so, please get those paid this week as we are required to submit our membership report and payment of dues to District 5710 and Rotary International on July 1. 

Past President Dick Wertzberger has been an outstanding leader and my hope is I'm able to continue that for the coming year.  Dick certainly set the bar high when it comes to attendance and presiding over club functions. I think he only missed 3 meetings during his tenure (2 for medical treatment and 1 for his son's wedding), which is a record that will not be challenged by your new president.  I will be fairly regular in my attendance,  but I will also provide plenty of opportunities for President Elect Betty Stevens to rehearse for her Presidency next year!  Dick started the tradition of this weekly email to keep members updated, informed and connected to our club.  He received many positive comments throughout the year regarding this email and because of that, I have committed to continuing the weekly emails.  I hope you find them enjoyable and informative.  Thank you Dick for your service, leadership and commitment to our club. 

If you missed last week's meeting you missed a great program featuring Jeff Gill of Tallgrass Brewing Company.  Jeff shared with us his story of how he went from a career as a geologist to leading a fast growing brewery.  The decision to change careers was made in 2006 when Jeff's wife Tricia ask the question "what do you want to do with the rest of your life?"  His answer was "I want to start a microbrewery." His dream became reality in 2007 when they settled in Manhattan and began the business.  Tallgrass Brewing Company now sells its beer in cans and on tap in 14 states.  I was most impressed with Jeff's commitment to service and having an "open heart" towards others. He stresses the importance of service and hospitality with his team of employees and distributors.  It's also worth noting that, in the spirit of service above self, Jeff had a high level of interest from our club membership in taste testing his products.  We are after all, a service organization. 

This week's program will feature our club Vice President Vernon Turner, who also serves as a Rotary Leadership Institute Facilitator.  Vernon's topic will be "Introduction to Rotary Leadership Institute."     You will want to mark your calendars for other upcoming programs.  On July 17th we will have the annual visit from District Governor Debra Rodenbaugh-Schaub.  As many of you know, Deb is a member of the Konza Rotary Club here in Manhattan.  It will be interesting to hear what Deb has planned for the new Rotary year ahead so please plan to attend and show Deb our support.  The following week, July 24th, we will have the pleasure of our annual visit from Coach Bill Snyder. 

I look forward to seeing you at lunch this Thursday!  

  
Scott Emley
Rotary Club of Manhattan

 
 
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