November 06, 2009

THIS FRIDAY

We’ll welcome Illinois Department of Transportation Deputy Director of Highways Roger Driskell to the podium. Roger will key us in on what’s happening in our neck of the woods in regards to transportation. Should be a good one.

 

FRIDAY LAST

We presented the inaugural Fire Fighter of the Year Award (see immediately below) and Quincy Superintendent of Schools Lonny Lemon gave us a timely update on the school district. In a pinch-hitter role, Lonny spoke about the success of the football team – as well as all the fall sports, absenteeism as a result of the flu, and the funding crises brought on by the state. Interesting stuff and we thank Lonny for his (always) willingness to help our club.

 

FIRE FIGHTER OF THE YEAR

Congratulations to Quincy Fire Department Captain Tom Bentley for being named our first Fire Fighter of the Year. Captain Bentley has been with the Quincy Fire Department for 14 years and in the fire fighting business for over 20 years. He holds the highest certification level for a fire fighter and is a hazardous materials and CPR instructor. In addition, he is the fire science program coordinator at John Wood Community College. An impressive resume to say the least. (Captain Bentley’s wife, Leslie, and daughter, Elizabeth, joining us for the luncheon.) A great choice and we congratulate not only Captain Bentley, but President Kevin Curran, Chairman Carlos Fernandez, and committee members Hal Broadwater, Tom Klincar, and Jim Benz. Great job, men!

 

VIP DATES

11/5 - Curt Kelty and John Johannes both celebrate birthdays

11/6 – Gary Hillebrenner celebrates a birthday

11/7 – Sonny Christner celebrates a birthday and the Veterans Day Parade

11/9 – November Board Meeting @ The Pier

11/13 – Veterans Program – Gen. Scott Thoele

11/15 – Quincy University Honors John Ortwerth

11/20 – ROAD TRIP to Pop’s Pizza

12/4 – GIVEAKIDACHANCE Christmas Party

12/7 – December Board Meeting @ The Pier

12/10 – Spousal Christmas Party

12/31 – Club Christmas Party at Boat Club

1/2 – Special Olympics Basketball Tournament at QU

 

VIP DATES - EXPANDED

Please note that the GIVEAKIDACHANCE Christmas Party has been added to the VIP Dates. Please mark your calendars now for the Special Olympics Basketball Tournament at Quincy University on Saturday, January 2nd. We’ll need help officiating and scorekeeping. Speaking of basketball, Coaches Sean Taylor and Scott Douglas will be speaking during our 11/20 road trip to Pop’s Pizza.

 

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“It is an honor to come to work every day.” Well said by a truly humbled Fire Fighter of the Year Captain Tom Bentley during his classy acceptance speech.

 

THIS & THAT

The Quincy Fire Department Honor Guard posting and retiring the colors for our program… Rev. Ron Fritts with a very nice prayer on a special day… Chief Joe Henning (Quincy Fire Department) and Chief Rick Zaerr (Tri-Township Fire District Department) and about 12-18 of their fire fighters joining us on Fire Fighter Day. Among other visitors were Gary Sparks (with Mayor John Spring), Charlie Doane (with Dick Wentura), and Coach J.D. Gravina (with Jim Benz)… Media guests included Chad Douglas (KHQA), Bob Gough (QuincyNews.org), Rodney Hart and Phil Carlson (Herald-Whig), and Mike Columbo (WGEM)… Like many of you, I was most impressed with our Fire Fighter of the Year… I was also impressed with the meal . Keep up the great work J.J… Please remember to turn your cell phones off or to silent prior to the bell ringing. It is a common courtesy not only to our speaker and guests but to each other as well… 50/50 card draw and tail twister to resume this week… That's all for now, 'til next time, may God’s love, grace, and peace be with you and the ones you love.

 

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

Fire Fighter of the Year, Captain Tom Bentley accepts his award from Quincy Fire Chief Joe Henning.
 

Fire Fighter of the Year, Captain Tom Bentley accepts his award from Quincy Fire Chief Joe Henning.