February 13, 2009

THIS FRIDAY:
Mayor John Spring and the State of the City. Join us in the East Room as Mayor John Spring delivers his fourth State of the City to our fine organization. Always an honor to host this program. If possible, you may want to be a bit early as we will have a Youth of the Month presentation as well and President Art Awerkamp may want to start earlier than normal.

FRIDAY LAST:
Always a treat to have our good friend, Baseball Hall of Famer, and Quincy native, Rick Hummel, with us. Rick gave us a few thoughts on the current St. Louis Cardinal team, the Cubs, and then opened it up for questions. Lots of good stuff. Prior to Rick taking the podium, Oakley-Lindsey Center Executive Director Rob Ebbing gave us a little preview on the upcoming Quincy Gems season. Rob expects a great season with new seats, a new (expanded) league, and the inaugural season of the Hannibal Caveman. Our thanks to both Rick and Rob. Program Director Gary Peters doing his usual (and always good) stand up routine before the introductions.

VIP DATES:
2/13 – Scott & Beverly Walker celebrate their 28th anniversary and the State of the City
2/14 – Valentine’s Day
2/17 – Elvin Townsend celebrates a birthday
2/19 – Macker Meeting @ K of C (5:15)
2/20 – Law Enforcement Day
3/9 – March Board Meeting @ The Pier
5/23 & 24 – Gus Macker
9/11 & 12 – Smoke on the River

QUOTE OF THE WEEK:
“So far I’ve lost four clubs and 112 members!” District President Dennis Koch telling us why the urgent need for the “Five in February” campaign. Dennis is offering some great gifts to any member (district-wide) who sponsors a new Exchangite during the month. The more new members you sponsor, the better your odds. Why not ask someone you know?

THIS & THAT:
Jim Benz with the prayer and Richard Cole leading the pledge of allegiance… Lots of guests – including several from the media. Didn’t get all their names… President Art presenting Richard Cole and Mike Disseler with their pins and certificates from national. Still looking for Ric Hinkamper’s… President Art letting us know he has received two proposals for the club website. We may learn of the board’s decision on Friday as the February board meeting was Monday (2/9)… President Art also letting us know that the slate of officers for 2009-2010 is now complete and 1st Vice President Kevin Curran has already started planning. Both items are good news. That slate of officers to be announced in the near future… Your humble editor twisting tails and having a tough time saying “secret service officer”… Skip Rueter in rare form. First asking Sonny Christner to bring him a beer and later letting everyone know that he was going to the restroom to relieve himself – but he said it in a little different (crude) manner… President Art’s father-in-law in the crowd as a guest. Good thing he didn’t turn off his phone before the meeting… That Exchange Club sign referred to in last week’s Exchangite was placed near Gardner-Denver. Thanks for clarifying District President Dennis… Rich Lavery showing up late, again. Although I can’t say much because unfortunately I had to skip out early… My friend Dan Brink won the 50/50 but picked the wrong card (seven of hearts). Feel bad for you, Dan. Only 36 cards left and the pot is nearly $500… Don’t forget Saturday is Valentine’s Day… That's all for now, 'til next time, may God’s love, grace, and peace be with you and the ones you love.