A ROTARY CLUB IS BORN
First came the vision – In the fall of 1985, Hans von Barby, a Golden business leader and president of
Colorado National Bank-Golden, recognized an opportunity in our community for a business and
professional service club. He was familiar with the international scope of Rotary and appreciated its
reputation for service to both local and worldwide communities. Von Barby contacted the nearby Rotary
Club of Lakewood to explore the avenues for forming a new Rotary club in Golden.
Lakewood Rotary had recently sponsored the formation of an expansion club in Wheat Ridge and was
familiar with the procedures. On the other hand, a previous attempt to energize a responsible assembly
in the Golden vicinity had not born fruit. Hence, although the Board of the Lakewood Club agreed to
sponsor a renewed initiative, it did so with initial skepticism. Von Barby was all the more determined to
demonstrate the viability of a separate club in Golden.
At the request of Lakewood Rotary President Fred Thies, District Governor Stanley Black appointed
William Gates of the Lakewood-Foothills Club as his Special Representative to oversee the
organizational processes. Fred Thies established a coordinating committee under the chairmanship of
William E. Brown. Serving on the formation committee were Lakewood Club members Robert Lutz,
Roy Buzzard, and Fred Thies.
During its first meeting, on November 5, 1985, von Barby’s enthusiasm and wide contacts in the
business community convinced the coordinating committee of the ability of a new club in Golden to
attract an adequate number of qualified and contributing members. In a follow up meeting on November
20th, territorial boundaries for the prospective Golden club were defined and von Barby accepted
responsibility for hosting an organizational meeting. John Olson, a Golden businessman and member of
the Lakewood-Foothills Club, was invited to assist in the arrangements.
That first organizational meeting for the Rotary Club of Golden took place on December 17, 1985, at the
Marriott Denver-West. In addition to von Barby and Olson, twenty-one interested business and
professional men attended. Bill Gates and Murph Widdowfield addressed the assembly, describing the
objectives and fundamentals of Rotary. A majority of attendees expressed interest in participation in
Rotary, and supported the formation of a provisional club in Golden. The consensus favored breakfast
meetings, and at the suggestion of von Barby, agreed on Rolling Hills Country Club as a desirable venue
for the new club.
THE ERA BEGINS
On February 18, 1986, Bill Brown filed the required Extension Survey with Rotary International,
confirming the viability of a club in Golden; concurrently the Lakewood Club re-affirmed its
sponsorship, agreed to cede the defined territory, offered to pay the application fee of $200, and reported
favorable progress to the District Governor. On March 13th, an application for formal recognition was
submitted to Rotary International, listing the following as Charter members:
Member
Hans von Barby
Barry B. Bauer
Arthur T. Biddle
Michael T. Campbell
Douglas Cassell
William Chase
Michael F. Diener
Jeffrey Dyke
Matthew Faykosh
James Harper
Nordy Jensen
Samuel J. Moser
Earl McLaughlin
George E. Mitchell, Jr.
H. Dana Morgan
Kenneth G. Moreland
James J. Nolan
John G. Olson
Donald Pearson
Dean R. Peed
Richard Rittner
John C. Seese
Mark E. Wagner
Donald Withers
Jack E. Counts
Classification
Banking
Automotive – Retailing
Law – Corporate
Brokerage
Banking
Insurance
Real Estate – Leasing
Real Estate – Commercial
Employment – Recruiter
Marketing – Machinery
Public Relations
Business Services
Utilities
Mining Development
Energy Research
Religion
Law – Commercial
Insurance
Audio-Visual Services
Construction Service
Facilities Management
Brewery
Tax Consulting
Accounting – CPA
Office Park Development
Ten days later, Rotary International approved the application of the Rotary Club of Golden, and on
March 24, 1986, Edward F. Cadman, President of Rotary International, and Stanley Black, District 545
Governor, signed the official Club Charter.
Golden Rotary becomes legitimate – The Charter was formally presented to the new Club at a gala
banquet on Friday, April 11, 1986. The keynote speaker was Richard Neet, Past District Governor, and
distinguished guests included William Gates, Chairman of the District Extension Committee; Stanley
Black, District Governor; George Hutchinson, Incoming District Governor, and Fred Thies and Bill
Brown, representing our Lakewood Club sponsors.
Rotary Clubs from throughout the District contributed a variety of gifts, including essentials for the
governance of the fledgling club. The Denver Club provided the President’s pin, Lakewood donated the
official meeting bell, Windsor sent a badge storage box, and Lakewood-Foothills provided a Four-Way
Test banner. Ten nearby clubs sent cash contributions, much appreciated by a novice club with a nearly
vacant bank account.
The March 1986 issue of the Rotarian Magazine reported a total of 21,988 Rotary Clubs throughout the
world, with 1,001,398 members. It would be safe to say, then, that Golden became the 21,989th Rotary
Club, adding 25 to bring the world total to 1,001,423 members.
One of Golden Rotary’s most enduring charitable service programs began with one of its first guest
speakers. JoAnn Thistlewood, President of the Christian Action Guild in Golden, first addressed the
Club on April 29th, 1986. Her message captured the hearts of the Rotarians, her mission – providing
food and clothing for the needy in Golden – attracted their enthusiastic support. Thus began the practice
of Rotarians bringing a donation of food to each meeting (or in the case of the frequently forgetful,
contributing $1.00 each week to the Guild’s programs). During the last ten years, it is estimated that
Golden Rotary has donated more than four tons of canned goods and dry foods to the needy in Golden.
Further, over the last decade, Golden Rotary has contributed nearly $5,000 to support the Christian
Action Guild’s community services.
BEGINNING A TRADITION OF FELLOWSHIP AND SERVICE
1986-87 – The rotary year is July 1st to June 30th. Golden Rotary began its first full year by re-electing
the Charter Officers. Lars Runnerstrom supervised a competition among Golden High art students to
design a Club logo. The winning design, featuring the Rotary ‘gear’ rising as a sun over Castle Rock,
was incorporated in the design of the Club’s banner by artist Penny Sadler. The Club participated in the
American Cancer Society’s annual “Climb the Mountain” fund-raiser; this may have been the start of
Golden Rotary’s passion for topping the Colorado Fourteeners.
Editarian1 Ken Moreland delighted in springing pop quizzes, challenging members to recall facts from
the latest issues of Rotarian Magazine. Art Biddle, Sergeant-at-Arms, would fine those failing the
questions. When, later in the year, Ken moved to the Aurora Club where he took over a new parish,
some of the semi-literate members were quite relieved. Also quite reassured were those members
lacking lyrical skills; the Club voted unanimously that there would be no singing with breakfast, a ban
which historically was violated only during the Tom Thomas era (see below).
In the fall of 1986, Golden Rotary welcomed its first Foreign Exchange Student, Bernhardt Mertz of
Mockmuhl-Zuttingen, Germany. Bernhardt pursued his senior year at Golden High. And the Club’s
international dimensions were expanded when its nominee for the 1987 District 545 Group Study
Exchange team was selected. Cecile Leboeuf represented Golden Rotary when she and her teammates2
spent six weeks with their District 982 hosts in southern Australia. This was the first all-female GSE
team fielded by District 545; it was led by current District Governor Jack Rummel.
The Club commissioned Barbara Froula, well-known Denver artist, to create an original watercolor of
downtown Golden. Her painting depicts 30 of Golden’s landmarks, including the Everett Bank building,
the Mercantile, the Coors family mansion, and the original Holland House. It was reproduced as a poster
titled “Golden: A Visit Downtown”, and has been sold through local merchants as a consistent income
producer for the Club.
Another tradition dating from that first year is Golden Rotary’s Student of the Month. Regularly, during
the school year, a Golden High student is selected to be recognized for his or her scholastic and civic
1
The title ‘Editarian’ for the editor of the local club newsletter was coined by Ed Bemis, newspaper publisher and
former District Governor. It now is widely used throughout Rotary. See also page __
2
In Australia they were “timemytes”
achievements. Since this program began in 1987, more than 50 outstanding Golden High students have
been honored by Golden Rotary.
1987-1988 – The Golden Nuggets of July 2, 1987, announced that, in a “close race undecided until last
vote counted”, John Olson was elected President of Golden Rotary. Reporting that the final count was
318 votes for Olson, 27 for his opponent, the Editarian expressed some doubt, since at the time the total
Club membership was 28. However, calls for a recount were set aside and Olson promised a
“benevolent reign.”
The Club expressed its appreciation to Hans von Barby with an enthusiastic celebration and variety of
gifts. Among those gifts was a pair of brightly striped red and white shorts, which the ever dignified von
Barby wore while presiding over his last meeting as President. However, the von Barby emeritus
festivities may be best remembered for the first appearance of the elusive but ever stunning Rosie
Bottoms. Rosie instantly became the secret dream girl (?) of many Golden Rotarians.
In the spring of 1987, Rotary International revised its policies which had limited clubs to all-male
membership. Within a few days, Golden Rotary had unanimously approved a revision to the Club’s ByLaws, to permit acceptance of women members. And on July 14th, 1987, Golden Rotary made history of
sorts by becoming the first club in District 545 to admit a female member. District Governor Les
Bevans was on hand to personally induct Barbara Powers, then President of Citywide Bank of
Applewood. Her personal sponsor was Hans von Barby. Also joining Golden Rotary on the occasion
were Bob Short, Mitch Maddox, and Tom Thomas.
Mitch Maddox promptly became Editarian of Golden Nuggets and Tom Thomas, often joined by
Michael Reisinger, began a practice of regaling the membership with loud and boisterous singing. On
occasion, a few other Rotarians joined in the choruses, but Tom Thomas had difficulty arousing the
majority from their morning somnolence. When Tom moved east for a new career position, the antisong contingent celebrated.
Yet another tradition of fellowship began in July, 1987, with the first Golden Rotary entry in the annual
Buffalo Bill Days parade. Carrying the flags of many nations representing the worldwide service of
Rotary, the stalwart troop won applause with a choreographed left face and bow to the judges.
Golden Rotarians joined enthusiastically in the RI Polio Plus campaign. In conjunction with District
545’s initiative, a goal of $5,000 was set for Golden Rotary’s contribution. The first fund raiser was a
group social at the Boulder Dinner Theatre, where members enjoyed a presentation of “42nd Street.”
Our second Foreign Exchange student, Heidi Boonzaier of Everglen, South Africa, arrived in Golden in
August. The ever-ebullient Heidi brought a new and refreshing image of her country to her classmates at
Golden High. And she helped Rotarians to better understand the history and the people of South Africa.
Again in 1988, Golden Rotary participated in the Group Study Exchange program. Mark Payne,
Golden’s nominee, was selected for the exchange team to District 4680 in Brazil. Fluent in Portuguese,
Mark was a talented ambassador and frequently attended Golden Rotary breakfasts to share his
experience with the membership.
On March 24th, 1988, Golden Rotary sponsored a Pasta Dinner in the CSM Green Center. The banquet,
to raise funds for the Jefferson Symphony and for the RI Polio Plus program, was organized by Adele
Emerson, professional caterer and talented chef. The food was delicious, the attendance excellent, the
profits for both the Symphony and Rotary generous. Thus began and annual partnership with the
Jefferson Symphony which has become, for both, a significant source of income.
1988-1989 – Charles ‘Chuck’ Bera assumed the Golden Rotary Presidency in July, 1988. Barbara
Powers was elected Vice President; Lisa Lang, Secretary, and Mark Wagner, Treasurer (when Mark later
moved his business to Lakewood, Sherman Wenger became Treasurer). Upon his retirement, John
Olson was the first recipient of the Past President’s Traveling Trophy. The passing of the Buddha-like
blue-green plaster Rotarian – nicknamed ‘Rotary Rob’ – become an annual ritual, challenging former
Presidents to find a suitable location in their home to display the handsome artwork, and to devise an
improvement for the delight of his or her successor.
August of 1988 brought the first of what has proven to be the most successful annual fund-raiser for
Golden Rotary. In cooperation with Leadership Golden – and with the very helpful support of Coors
Brewing – the Club announced the sale of fresh Western Slope peaches, bys the case. Chuck Bera,
subsequently the perennial Peach Sale Chairman, set up the purchase of a truckload of peaches right off
the tress at Noland Farms. Sam Allen arranged to have the peaches brought over from Grand Junction in
a chilled Coors trailer. The response from the community was even more enthusiastic than hoped for;
the entire order was sold by lunchtime on August 27th. Thus began yet another tradition, thanks to
Chuck and Sam and Coors.
In September, 1988, Golden Rotary presented its first Service Above Self Award. The recipient was
Mark Wagner. Mark had been responsible for establishing the Club’s financial records and served as
Treasurer for two years. He had been a substantial contributor to the success of the Club in these initial
years. The Award served to wish him well in his career move to Lakewood.
February of 1989 brought the first of the continuing series of Rotary evenings at DCPA. Adele Emerson
arranged prime seating and a superb buffet dinner for members who enjoyed an excellent presentation of
“Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.”
And on March 2nd, the Second Annual Jefferson Symphony/Golden Rotary Pasta Dinner purveyed fine
food and music to the sold-out event at Green Center, and over $6,000 in profits shared equally between
the Symphony and Golden Rotary’s Polio Plus fund. The Club’s share enabled Golden Rotary to meet –
and exceed – its goal for the Polio Plus campaign. Indeed, the Club’s total contributions were $8,400.
Golden Rotary thus became one of the first clubs in the District to exceed its target for contributions to
the Rotary International program to eliminate poliomyelitis throughout the world.
1989-1990 – In a poignant and somewhat tedious address, incoming President Dana Moran expressed
the appreciation of the Club to Chuck Bera, who had served with distinction as the 1988-1989 CEO.
Less grateful were Chuck’s wife Ruth and their daughter Suzanne, who attended the ceremonies in
tattered dress; apparently Bera’s penurious habits had left his family destitute. Their pitiful state
dampened the spirits of the members as they welcomed Lisa Lang as Vice President, Larry Fike as
Secretary, and Sherman Wenger for a second year as Treasurer.
August of 1989 brought Golden Rotary its third Foreign Exchange Student, Paolo Pedenovi of Clusone,
Italy. Paolo’s Italian charisma quickly captured the hearts of the female members of the Club. He was a
popular guest at breakfast and an honor student at Golden High.
A sore knee and two aching feet helped Rotarian Lars Runnerstrom over the finish line of the New York
Marathon in November of 1989. With half the Club betting against his completing the race, Lars raised
almost $2,000 for the Christian Action Guild. His official time was 4 hours, 88 minutes.
Golden Rotary presented its first Rotarian of the Year award in March, 1990. Honored was John Olson,
whose services to the fledgling club were legion. John was the second Club President, organized the
Student Exchange Program, and sponsored many of the charter members. John’s commitment and good
humor were vital to the early success of the Club.
Recipient of the 1990 Golden Rotary Service Above Self Award was JoAnn Thistlewood. As President
of the Christian Action Guild, volunteer for many worthy causes, Golden historian, and civic leader,
JoAnn had endeared herself to the community and to Rotary.
For the 1990 International Conference, Rotary headquarters commissioned a tapestry, a huge quilt to
display emblems of clubs from throughout the world. The Club engaged Ann Elliott, a Golden quilter,
to prepare a special quilt square featuring Golden’s trademark, Castle Rock, and the Club’s name. The
tapestry now is on permanent display in Rotary International Headquarters in Evanston, Illinois…with
the Golden square for all to admire.
Another Golden Rotarian distinguished himself for his charity in March. In a drawing to benefit youth
programs, sponsored by Golden Rotary, Tom Clark won two seats at the Final Four Basketball
Championship game. But rather than use the precious tickets himself (they were valued at $1,000), Tom
and his wife Julie donated them to the 1990 Easter Seals poster child, an ardent basketball fan.
And in June, 1990, the Rotary Club presented a check for $590 to Golden City Council for the purchase
of a bench for the new Vanover Park. The bench, boasting a brass Rotary logo, has rested many a visitor
over the years, reminding of Rotary’s contributions to the community.
1990-1991 – Lars Runnerstrom’s practice for the New York Marathon served him well when he ran for,
and won, the Presidency of Golden Rotary. Elected Vice President was Bob Reeder, with Larry Fike
carrying on as Secretary, and Tom Clark as Treasurer. With a generous assist from Bob Short and the
Transcript, a new format was designed for the Golden Nuggets and Dana Moran took over as Editarian.
Tragically, in July 1990, Tom Young, a Golden Fire Department volunteer and long-time friend of the
Rotary Club, was critically injured in a rescue mission. The community rallied to his aid, and Golden
Rotary promptly raised and contributed $550 to assists his family.
The second Annual Golden Rotary Peach Sale (there was no peach crop in 1989) was on August 24th and
25th. Income – to benefit the Club’s charitable programs – exceeded $5,000. Chuck Bera and Sam Allen
co-chaired the Club’s most successful fund-raiser to date.
Also in August, Golden Rotary participated in the first of a series of Peak Challenges. Organized to
benefit the Emily Griffith Youth Center, all 54 Colorado fourteeners were climbed in one day. Rotary’s
peak was Mt. Oxford (14,153’); Mike Greunke led the fearless five Rotarians who fought their way to
the top…and topped Mt. Belford enroute, too…
Golden Rotary’s Foreign Exchange Student for 1990-1991 was Pollyanna Vila Nova, who came to us
from Boa Vista, Brazil. Shy at first, Polly soon became a delightful presence at Rotary breakfasts and a
popular student at Golden High.
In September 1990, Golden Rotary sent a delegation to the Grand Junction Rotary Club. Grand Junction
is Golden’s Colorado Sister City. Bob Short wrangled the use of the Coors LearJet, and the delegates
rode in style. Dana Moran presented a lecture on solar energy to the Western Slope Rotarians.
Golden Rotarians celebrated Christmas 1990 with a Trim-a-Tree party hosted by the effervescent Adele
Emerson. Adele’s sumptuous repast preceded a spirited ornament exchange which netted $75 for the
Rotary Foundation. The Annual Gift Exchange and Wild Confusion a few days later raised $350;
Golden Rotary promptly contributed $250 to Adopt-A-Family to buy special equipment for a disabled
Golden resident.
Ann Ressler of Rolling Hills Country Club was Golden Rotary’s Tuesday morning host, companion, and
waitress for nearly nine years. On February 19th, 1991, she celebrated her 75th birthday. Rotarians feted
Annie with a gift of cash and a toast in morning coffee.
The 1991 Service Above Self Award went to Bob Short, who was recognized for his outstanding
contributions to the community. Bob, publisher of the Golden Transcript, was a leader in the Chamber
of Commerce, the Sister City Program, the Heritage Festival, Oktoberfest, and countless other civic
enterprises. Accompanying in the award was a check for $1,000 which Bob generously donated to the
Golden Civic Foundation. Selected as Rotarian of the Year was Dana Moran, a Charter member and
occasional contributor to the Club’s success.
April 11th, 1991, repeated the Annual Pasta Dinner – to which fajitas were added. This year, the popular
and well-attended event raised over $3,000 each for the Golden Youth Symphony and for Golden
Rotary.
March, 1991, brought a special recognition to Golden Rotary. The Golden Nuggets was selected as the
best club newsletter in District 545.1 The Bemis Award for Newsletter Excellence was presented to
Editarian Dana Moran at the District Conference. The Club rejoiced as Moran blushed with pride.
And in April, a sturdy group of Rotary volunteers planted about two dozen trees along the new Tucker
Gulch trail through Golden. Indeed, when members of the Lions Club withered away, Rotarians planted
the Lions’ allotment of trees as well.
In June, Golden Rotary’s first delegation to a Rotary International Conference was dispatched. Barbara
Powers and Adele Emerson attended the convention in Mexico City. They reported an enjoyable
experience, spicy food, and a bit of latent sexism in the foreign clubs.
1991-1992 – It was not contest; Sherman Wenger was the unanimous choice for Golden Rotary
President for 1991-1992. A deluge of lawyer and Swedish jokes preceded the presentation of good old
Rotary Rob to retiring President Lars Runnerstrom. And an impromptu highland fling by the beauteous
and bountiful Rosie Bottoms and her equally charming twin sister Goldie capped the retirement
ceremonies. Joining Sherman’s cabinet were Vice President George Mitchell, Larry Fike doing the
Secretarial duties for a third year, and Tom Clark, serving a second term as Treasurer.
1
Rotary District 545 became District 5450 later in 1991; it encompasses most of northeastern Colorado, including 38
clubs.
Sadly, a late freeze on the Western Slopes nearly wiped out the peach crop, and Rotary could not
sponsor its annual peach sale. But six ragged Rotarians rose to the occasion and climbed Mt. Bross
(14,172’) to support the Griffith Center’s annual Peak Challenge. Indeed, they topped Mt. Lincoln and
Mt. Democrat in the same circuit – three fourteeners in one day.
Golden Rotary’s fifth Foreign Exchange Student, Luis Antonio Orozco Gutierrez, arrived August 30th.
Luis came from a very special family; his father, who passed away prematurely, expressed the hope that
all three of his sons could be Rotary exchange students in the United States. Indeed, Luis became the
third son to do so. Happily, Luis’ arrival coincided with a visit from Paolo Pedenovi. Lynn and Sherm
Wenger, host family for both Paolo and Luis, sponsored a lavish party to welcome both to Golden.
As many as two out of ever five youngsters are inadequately protected against serious childhood diseases
– polio, measles, diphtheria, whooping cough. While the law requires immunization before entering
school, it is difficult to administer. Most of these children are in low income families unable to afford
the fees for shots at a doctor’s office. Aware of this critical need, Golden Rotarians, led by Regina
Benson, organized a free immunization clinic on Saturday, October 3rd, 1992, during National
Immunization Week. Faith Lutheran Church lent its facilities and volunteer nurses from Jefferson
County Health Department joined in. Over 280 children received immunization; many had several
shots. This, one of Golden Rotary’s most heartfelt projects, was deemed an outstanding success and set
a model for many other Rotary clubs.
In November, Golden Rotary initiated its Rotary Scholar Athlete Award, recognizing outstanding
students at Golden High who excel in both scholastics and athletics. Recipients receive a certificate
from Rotary and are permanently recorded on a plaque displayed at the school. And in December,
Golden Rotary again made Christmas contributions to the Adopt-A-Family and JeffCo Senior Resource
Center programs.
February 29th brought the annual Fiesta Dinner, this year benefiting the Front Range Youth Symphony.
It may have been Sadie Hawkins Day, but both the Symphony and Rotary were winners, with total
proceeds exceeding $10,500.
The Annual Awards Banquet honored two very special people. Selected as Golden Rotarian of the Year
was Adele Emerson, hostess extraordinaire, gourmet chef of the annual Fiesta dinners, President-Elect,
and surely the most enthusiastic fund-raiser in the Club. Honored with the Service Above Self Award
was Golden Volunteer Fireman Tom Young, whose crippling injury during a rescue mission brought out
the love and support of the entire community. Tom’s brother Frank accepted the award, which was
accompanied by a $500 honorarium.
1992-1993 – Golden Rotary began the new year under the ebullient leadership of the irrepressible Adele
Emerson, the Club’s first woman president, and one of the first in the District. Tom Pott was elected
Vice President, and Larry Fike and Tom Clark again dedicated themselves as Secretary and Treasurer of
the Club. Pat Madison took over duties as the Editarian of Golden Nuggets. The annual roast for
retiring leader Sherman Wenger lacked the dignity appropriate to his characteristic reserve and decorum.
Continuing its effort to reduce global warming through the cultivation of new forests, Rotary purchased
a full-grown tree for the Golden Streetscape; the tree survives today, highlighted with a plaque bearing
the Club’s name.
Jaroslav Chronak of Pisek, Czechoslovakia, became Golden Rotary’s sixth Foreign Exchange Student.
Jaro, having completed his senior year of high school, became a freshman at the Colorado School of
Mines. Jaro liked to note that he was from the front of his country, the Czech side, rather than the back
end.
A hardy and hearty team of Golden Rotarians scaled Mt. Harvard, Colorado’s third highest mountain at
14,350’ as part of the annual Griffith Center Peak Challenge. And Golden Rotary joined with a number
of other clubs in the region in contributing $1,000 to support the expansion of the Arvada Center for the
Arts and Humanities. Assuring equal time for Golden’s own cultural nexus, the Club also contributed
$1,000 to the Foothills Art Center.
The conquest of Mt. Harvard paled, however, when member Lars Runnerstrom returned from Africa
after having clambered to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro, a mile higher than Harvard! Lars’ climb raised
$1,400 in pledges for the Christian Action Guild. For this and many other volunteer contributions Lars
was overwhelmingly elected the Golden Transcript Person of the Year for 1992.
Because the need was so apparent, and the response to the first Clinic so encouraging, Golden Rotary
sponsored its second Immunization Clinic on May 1st, providing much needed protection from serious
childhood diseases to more than 300 youngsters. Regina Benson, working with volunteer nurses from
the JeffCo Department of Health, chaired this especially worthy program and again merited the cheers of
her colleagues and the thanks of children – or at least their parents – throughout the greater Golden area.
In March, Bob Lowry, President of the Foss Company and the Golden Civic Foundation, and long an
active contributor to civic projects in Golden, received the Club’s annual Service Above Self Award.
Larry Fike, diligent and dedicated Secretary, and delightful in drag, deservedly received the Club’s
highest honor to a member, Rotarian of the Year. The Club offered incentives to members choosing to
become Paul Harris Fellows, and six Golden Rotarians achieved that rank (see page __).
And on a chilly wet morning in May, a courageous gathering of Rotarians planted another small forest of
trees along Tucker Gulch as a contribution to the City’s beautification program. The Annual Fiesta
Dinner in April raised more than $4,000 for the Foothills Youth Symphony – and an equal amount for
Rotary – with Adele Emerson and Michael Reisinger hosting the fabulous fajitas and other fancy foods.
The RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Award) is a program designed to develop qualities of leadership
and good citizenship among young people in the community. Each year, Golden Rotary has sponsored
the participation of two Golden High students in this dynamic program at the YMCA of the Rockies.
Jennifer Marer and Tim Lane were Golden’s delegates in 1993. And Golden Rotary’s third
representative to the Rotary Group Study Exchange program, Desiree Lane, joined her team for six
weeks of professional and personal education in District 4860 in Argentina.
GOLDEN ROTARY MATURES
1993-1994 – As he was inaugurated President, some members claimed that George Mitchell’s white hair
heralded the maturing of the Golden Rotary Club. Others were of the opinion that George brought a
level of decorum that was lacking under previous administrations. George’s Cabinet included Vice
President Russ Sindt, perpetual Secretary Larry Fike, and trustworthy Tom Clark again serving as
Treasurer. The retirement ceremony for Adele Emerson must have offended George’s dignity as
vaquero James Halderman rode off into the sunset carrying an ecstatic Adele in his arms.
In July, as another Golden Rotary team prepared to tackle Mt. Shavano (14,229’) in the annual Griffith
Center’s Peak Challenge, member and astute politician Dick Sargent announced his intention to run for
Colorado State Governor. And an attractive array of members marched in the Golden Buffalo Bill Days
parade, proudly displaying the flags of Rotary countries throughout the world.
Another highly successful Peach Sale in August broke two records: it was the most profitable to date,
and more than 1,440 twenty-five pound cases were sold to hungry Goldenites. Chuck Bera once again
led the program, which had become a tradition in Golden, with at majority of sales being to repeat
buyers from previous years.
Golden Rotary has been a frequent supporter of local elementary school programs. In October, the Club
donated $1,000 to Mitchell Elementary to underwrite nine special classes in physical education and
computer skills, and another $546 to Coal Creek Elementary for the purchase of an electronic
encyclopedia.
Rotarians began another annual tradition, contributing $250 to the Jefferson County SHARES program
and then assisting in the distribution of Christmas food baskets to the needy in the greater Golden area.
And again, Rotary contributed $250 to the Adopt-A-Family program.
In November, masochist member Lars Runnerstrom again completed the New York Marathon, raising
additional funds for the Christian Action Guild.
Golden Rotary figured largely in the Golden Chamber of Commerce in 1994. Dana Moran was elected
Chamber President, and Rotarians Lisa Lang and Sherman Wenger were elected to the Chamber Board
of Directors. All the while, Golden Rotary members Diane Willett was the Chamber Executive Director.
The Golden Nuggets for November 11, 1994, reported that the Rotary Club of Golden was third in the
District for per capita giving to the Rotary Foundation, although eighteenth in club size. And more than
a third of the current members had become Paul Harris Fellows.
In January, 1994, the Annual Awards Banquet honored two deserving and distinguished citizens of
Golden. Both, coincidentally, were employees of Coors Brewing Company, and both were active
Rotarians. Marvin D. “Swede” Johnson, a Rotarian since 1952, member of the Denver Club, and former
president of the Tucson, Arizona Club, was presented with Golden Rotary’s highest honor, the Service
Above Self Award. Swede’s contributions to the community and to deserving civic programs were
countless. Recognized as Rotarian of the Year was Chuck Bera; past president, eternal chairman of the
peach sales, baseball fan, and all-round good fellow. Chuck’s commitment to Rotary knows no bounds;
for the awards ceremony, he even donned a tie.
On February 12th, at the District 5450 Paul Harris Dinner, six Golden Rotarians were inducted as Paul
Harris Fellows: Sam Allen, Chuck Bera, Adele Emerson, Mary Anne Fleet, Lee Hill, and Marlos Riggle.
The annual joint fundraiser with the Jefferson Symphony adopted western garb in March. The silent
auction and dinner were at the Lazy H in Heritage Square. Stetsons, boots, BBQ ribs, and line dancing
replaced the dressier décor of past banquets. But Adele Emerson still oversaw the buffet, and Mary
Anne Fleet and Marlos Riggle co-chaired.
In 1993, Golden Rotary purchased a block of tickets for the home games of the fledgling Colorado
Rockies. The tickets were then auctioned to members, used as raffle prizes to raise funds for the
Christian Action Guild, or sold to members. Chuck Bera has organized this annual benefit for Rotarians
ever since. In July, 1994, Adele Emerson and Chuck organized a pre-game Tailgate Party for Rotary
Rockies Fans that drew over 1,200 Rotarians and friends from three Rotary Districts.
Since 1991 Golden Rotary has been a supporter of the Jefferson County Good News Coalition. Again
this year, the Club contributed $300 to the community program, and Golden Rotarians participated in the
annual Good News Breakfast, celebrating charitable programs and agencies throughout the County.
1994-1995 – Dandy and delightful dentist Tom Pott succeeded to the Presidency in July 1994. Betsy
Thorpe was elected Vice President, Larry Fike returned once more as Secretary, and Pat Madison took
over the finances as Treasurer. Mary Anne Fleet and Marlos Riggle took on the task of Co-Editarians of
Golden Nuggets. The ‘roast’ of retiring President Mitchell attempted gentility and propriety, but
collapsed into chaos as a series of members claimed to have discovered embarrassing transgressions in
Mitchell’s avowed unblemished past.
For at-risk and special education students, the transition from the supportive environment of school to
the challenges of work can be traumatic. In July, Golden Rotary become a major contributor to the
Goodwill Industries’ School to Work Transition Program, funding a scholarship and providing a $1,000
matching grant to assist the participation of students.
The annual Club picnic was shared with Evergreen Rotary, at Sunset Beach. When the Golden
volleyball team destroyed the struggling Evergreen eight, a bitter rivalry was born, to be tested each year
at this joint event. A special guest at the picnic was Hodei Salaberria, Golden Rotary’s seventh Foreign
Exchange Student. Hodei hailed from Durango, Spain.
The Rotary contingent in the annual Buffalo Bill Days parade in July was militarily precise under the
direction of ex-Marine Dick Sargent. But star of the event was Suzanne Bera, wearing her crown as
Golden Rotary Peach Princess.
August brought another Peak Challenge. Jim Halderman led a rag-tag group of Rotarians and friends to
the top of Mt. Bierstadt (14,060’). Most huffed and puffed up the grade, while marathon champ Lars
Runnerstrom jogged all the way up, to await the arrival of the rest.
Nearly 1,000 cases were sold at the August Peach Sale. The enthusiasm of members working at this
annual fund-raiser was exceeded only by the eagerness of repeat customers to again sample the best of
Western Slope produce. The proceeds were over $6,400, to benefit Rotary’s charitable programs.
October 15th brought Golden Rotary’s fourth Immunization Clinic, once again under the able guidance of
Regina Benson. Many Club members assisted in registering, guiding, and consoling the more than 300
children, most from needy families, who received their protection against a variety of childhood
diseases.
A new and exciting development in downtown Golden is the Clear Creek Living History Park. It began
with the relocation of two historic log cabins from ranches in the foothills. A team of Golden Rotarians
assisted the reconstruction of the buildings, spending a Saturday in October ‘chinking’ the cracks
between the logs with mud and straw and nailing shingles. It is a comforting thought to realize the
fingerprints of a dozen Rotarians now are preserved forever in mud at the History Park.
To help needy families enjoy Christmas, Rotarians again assisted, financially and with hard labor, in
distributing food throughout the JeffCo SHARES program, and the Christian Action Guild, and by
contributing to the Adopt-A-Family program.
The annual Rotary-Jefferson Symphony dinner adopted a new theme and excitement as it became the
Mardi Gras Spectacular. On the evening of March 4th, Goldenites donned masks and outrageous
costumes and enjoyed a splendid Queens Dinner and Carnival Feast. Co-chairs Betsy Thorpe for Rotary
and Jean Kane for the Symphony arranged Dixieland Jazz and continuous entertainment, and members
of both organizations contributed gifts for the silent auction. The magnificent event was more profitable
than ever, brining in more than $7,000 each for Rotary and the Symphony.
Golden Rotary’s 1995 Service Above Self Award went to Tom Plummer. A civic leader for decades,
Tom has been active in, and president of, Golden Lions, Golden Civic Foundation, and the Golden
Chamber. Honored as Rotarian of the Year was Sherman Wenger; past President, constantly
contributing Rotarian, member of the Golden Chamber Board, Golden City Planning Commission, and
numerous other community programs.
In May, Jim Halderman became the Editarian of the Golden Nuggets, bringing to the assignment a fresh
wit and intellectual insight. Rotary once more supported three Golden High students for a week at the
Rotary Youth Leadership Awards program in Estes Park. And Rotarians again showed their empathy for
the disabled by contributing $1,100 to buy canes for blind children.
1995-1996 – Beginning an era of lawyer jokes and legal humor, Russ Sindt became President of Golden
Rotary. His Court included Vice President Pat Madison, sedulous Secretary Larry Fike, and banker Jan
Koshio handling the Treasury. Jim Halderman continued as Editarian. President Emeritus Pott endured
untold indignities as the Club members expressed their thanks with sadistic jokes and water pistols.
Golden Rotary helped bail out the Golden Jaycees, who had come up short in funds for the Golden
Fourth of July celebration and fireworks. Rotary’s $500 contribution made this traditional community
celebration possible. And Rotarians again marched proudly in the Buffalo Bill Days parade later in July.
Another summer social at Sunset Beach renewed the combat between the Golden and Evergreen Clubs.
Evergreen brought in a couple of ringers and took the volleyball competition handily. The Golden team
drowned its sorrows in the local beverage and enjoyed a feast arranged by Diane Kessel, all the while
vowing revenge in ’96.
The Seventh Annual Golden Rotary Peach Sale in August was bigger, better, more fun, and more
profitable than ever. Perpetual Peach Chairman Chuck Bera has the procedure down to a science,
including computerized order records and cell phones to call tardy buyers. Noland Farms saves the best
of its crops for Rotary and Club members have become adept at sales, handling, and delivery. This
traditional fund raiser has contributed more than $35,000 to the Club’s charitable programs since its
inception in 1988.
Christmas contributions included $500 each for the Christian Action Guild, the JeffCo SHARES
program, and Adopt-A-Family. The latter donation assisted a Golden family in adding a wheelchair lift
to their van for the young daughter.
Major event for Golden Rotary’s spring calendar was the Second Annual Mardi Gras Ball. Again
President-Elect Betsy Thorpe produced a masterpiece of an evening. Costumes were more bizarre than
ever, the food more scrumptious, the entertainment more entertaining. And the proceeds more
rewarding…the event raised more than $8,000 each for Golden Rotary and the Jefferson Symphony.
Again, a Golden Rotary nominee was selected for a Group Study Exchange Team – two, in fact! Sharon
Campbell and Terri Rowenhorst will represent Golden Rotary on the team which will spend six weeks in
the Vienna, Austria District in May 1996.
In April, the Club made its largest financial commitment to date, to a new and exciting civic program.
The Golden Visitors Center, to be built on Washington Avenue at Clear Creek, will be a permanent asset
to the community, providing guidance, educational, and reference materials to residents and visitors, as
well as providing a home for civic organizations and activities. The Club made a pledge of support to
the building of the Center, $12,000, to be contributed in three equal annual donations. The Center will
feature Rotary, both as a donor and as a major contributor to the charitable and cultural values of
Golden.
A DECADE OF CONTRIBUTIONS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS BUT THE BEST IS YET TO
COME
As the Rotary Club of Golden celebrates its tenth anniversary, it has much of which to be proud. It has
contributed more than $68,000 to educational, charitable, and cultural programs in the greater Golden
community and equally as much to the worldwide service programs of Rotary International. Just as
important, Golden Rotarians have contributed their time and personal initiative to making a better life
for all in our community. And they, too, have been the beneficiaries of the fellowship and pride which
has made Golden Rotary the finest service club in Colorado…perhaps the best in the entire world.
With the leadership of President-Elect Betsy Thorpe and her successors, 1996-1997 and the second
decade of Golden Rotary promise to be even more productive, more contributing, and more fun than
these first few years. The Best, indeed, is Yet to Come……
Continuing The Chronicles
1996-1997 The Thorpe Era
Even before the eleventh year began, Distinguished Leader, Parliamentarian, and Investment Banker
Betsy Thorpe was recognized for her contributions to the Club and the community. At the 10th
Anniversary Banquet in April 1996, Betsy was chosen Rotarian of the Year for 1996-97. The Service
Above Self awardee was that splendid fellow, Dana Moran.
In addition to President Thorpe, reigning officials for the 96-97 session were Pat Madison as PresidentElect, Barbara Powers Vice President, ever-faithful Secretary Larry Fike, and trustworthy Jan Koshio as
Treasurer. Golden Nuggets continued under the talented Editarianship of Jim Halderman.
August saw the arrival of our latest Exchange Student Troels Larsen from Denmark. Troels promptly
ingratiated himself with his Nordic charm and athletic prowess — he led the Golden team to a literally
smashing victory over Evergreen in the annual volleyball competition. August also saw another
profitable Peach Sale under the guidance of perpetual peach person Chuck Bera.
In November, President-Emeritus Sindt was arrested and tried for his innumerable violations of the
Four-Way Test. Judge Henry P. Hornswaggle presided and a parade of witnesses, victims of Sindt’s
transgressions, testified against him. No one rose to his defense, and he was forthwith convicted by a
jury of his peers.
Golden Rotary adopted the elderly residents of Canyon Gate Seniors Residence in November. Under the
demanding direction of Regina Benson and Steve Gragg, more than 60 ‘Birthday Gift Bags’ were
assembled, providing personal care items and a little good fun for the senior citizens. To promote
fellowship among the residents and to express our affection, the Club hosts a monthly birthday party.
And residents were invited to the Club’s annual Christmas breakfast. Colorful plants from Rotary
decorated the Residence for Valentine’s Day.
In January, Golden Rotary became one of the first clubs in District 5450 to have its own Home Page on
the Internet. Prepared by skilled software artist Pat Madison, the Home Page is accessed through the
District’s posting at www.Rotary5450.org. Featuring details on the Club and a map for visitors, the Page
also offers links to Rotary International and information on other clubs in the District.
The Annual Mardi Gras benefitted from a change in venue and an enthusiastic team of volunteers from
Rotary and fellow sponsor Jefferson Symphony. A record $28,000 was raised, shared between the Club
and the Symphony. The Mardi Gras is one of Golden Rotary’s two major fund-raisers; its profits benefit
a wide variety of Club projects and contributions.
At the District Conference in April, President Betsy was presented two distinguished awards. The first,
a 1996-97 Presidential Citation, recognized the extensive contributions and accomplishments of the
Club. Citing Club
growth as well as achievements in all four avenues of service — Club, Vocational, Community, and
International -- District Governor Krause complimented Ms. Thorpe and Golden Rotarians for their
creativity and dedication.
The second award to the Club was a very special surprise. Golden Rotary was accorded the District’s
Paul Harris Award of Excellence, as the club in District 5450 which best met the Goals of Rotary
International, of President Giay, and of the District Governor. The award includes a life-size bust of
Paul Harris which will grace the Club’s weekly meetings for the coming year.
And in April, at the 11th Anniversary Banquet, the Club presented its annual awards. The Service Above
Self Award went to Charlene and Bill Pazar, recognizing their long history of volunteerism in the
Golden community, and in particular, their tireless leadership of Golden’s annual summer celebration,
Buffalo Bill Days. Honoring her dedication and commitment to the Club’s Community Service
programs, Regina Benson was deservedly recognized as Rotarian of the Year. And the Club presented
its first Ethics in Business Award, to Jim Buck, President of Genesee Business Systems and a role model
of vocational service.
As this chapter is concluded, it is with respect and appreciation that we celebrate the accomplishments of
the Thorpe administration, and look forward to the Madison moments.
Moving Right Along.....
1997-1998 The Madison Moments
A trek to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, 19,565 feet, prepared Pat Madison for his term as President of
Golden Rotary. A software guru and small business owner, Madison brought a buoyant and boyish
enthusiasm to the monarchy. His cabinet included President-Elect Diane Kessel and Vice President Len
Todd. Larry Fike, our Perennial Secretary and Honest Jim Halderman, Treasurer, assured continuity and
financial stability, as well as entertaining Board meetings.
Fellowship-wise, the year began with a bang!....and a whimper!! Golden Rotary’s entry in the July
Buffalo Bill Days Parade featured a Hummer, driven with verve and abandon by President -Elect Diane
Kessel. Placarded Golden Rotary is Humming, the Rotary limo was a great hit with the kids, ages 7 to
70. The annual Family Day Picnic with the Evergreen Club, was a blast, best food, fun, and fellowship
yet. However, the traditional volley ball tournament, dubbed the Front Range Volley Ball Masters
Trophy Finals, or FRVBMTF, was a bit of a downer. In the tiebreaker third game, the score stood at 1414, when Evergreen spiked a high lob to win the match by one point! With the series tied at two to two,
Evergreen took the trophy home, as Golden members vowed vengeance at the rubber match in ‘98.
Rotary scholars, lost and found.... In August, the Club’s outgoing Rotary Scholar, Petra Madigan, began
her second term at the University of Zimbabwe. And the Club was advised that its incoming scholar,
Ta-Ching Chou of Taichung, Taiwan, would arrive soon. Interestingly, Ta-Ching never showed
up....Neither RI nor his sponsors in Taiwan could locate Ta-Ching, or his airline ticket, or his travel
funds.
Lost, too, was the ‘97 peach crop on the Western slope, causing the Club, with considerable regret, to
cancel its traditional fundraiser.
When he completed a tally of Golden Rotary’s charitable contributions in the 1996-97 year, Treasurer
Halderman was delighted to report that our Club had donated more than $11,000 to worthy causes. And
the Club initiated a program of monthly collections of personal items specifically needed by the clients
of the Christian Action Guild, with the provision of several hundred pairs of socks. October was
underwear month, generating a abundance of unmentionables.
November is Rotary foundation month and committee chair Dick Sargent initiated a drive to increase
member contributions to the Foundation. By the end of the Rotary year, such contributions, including
Club matching donations, totaled $4250.
December brought a season of fellowship and giving. The Christmas Party hosted by newlyweds Karen
and Larry Fike was a joyous celebration and a splendid feast. The Club delivered several cartons of cold
weather clothing and Christmas toys to the Christian Action Guild. And the annual Christmas Gift
Exchange and Holiday Riot raised nearly $300 for the Guild’s charitable programs.
Colorado boasts spectacular scenery and superb skiing…and one of the best ways to enjoy both is by
train. In early February Rialroad Mogul Larry Hall hosted a day at Winter Park for Golden Rotarians via
the traditional Ski Train. So popular was the trip that it promises to become an annual outing.
February also brought the annual Mardi Gras fund-raiser, this year still bigger and better than ever. The
most successful yet, the ’98 Mardi Gras raised more than $15,000 to support the public concerts of cosponsor Jefferson Symphony and the charitable programs of Golden Rotary. Once again Past President
Betsy Thorpe chaired the organizing committee which ultimately included almost every Golden
Rotarian.
Immediately following Mardi Gras, Golden Rotarians gathered together to collect more than 700
flowering plants at the conclusion of the Denver Home and Garden Show. The plants were refreshed,
decorated, and delivered to sick and elderly guests of the Lutheran Hospice facility, Canyon Gate
Apartments, and Bear Creek Manor.
In March the Club hosted the Group Study Exchange team from Sao Paulo, Brazil, introducing team
members to both cultural and professional aspects of our community. The week-long visit concluded
with a five-club joint banquet welcoming the guests, chaired by President-Elect Diane Kessel, who
subsequently led the Outgoing District 5450 GSE team to Sao Paulo. The dinner program included
auctioning a first day cover featuring stamps honoring Rotary, to raise funds to assist in the combat of
AIDS in Malawi.
Also in March, the Board authorized the formation of an independent Golden Rotary Foundation, to
provide a basis for accepting tax deductible contributions and for the disbursement of charitable
donations.
Early in April, the Club’s favorite charity, the Christian Action Guild, relocated from its former quarters
in a small house and borrowed storage space to a new permanent home at 14th and Ford. Golden Rotary
rallied a crew of ‘strong backs, weak minds’ to pack, lift, shift, and shelve hundreds of cases, cartons,
and cans of food and supplies.
The annual District Conference at the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs brought special pride to Golden
Rotary when member Dorothy Horrell received the Les Bevans Pacesetter Award, one of the District’s
most distinguished honors.
On April 24th the Club celebrated its 12th Anniversary with a gala banquet at the CSM Student Center.
Delightful entertainment was provided by Notorious, a talented ‘barbershop’ quartet featuring lead
vocalist Diane Kessel. Indeed, it was a special evening for Diane, who was honored as Golden Rotarian
of the Year.
Recognized for their Service Above Self were Helen and Hal Leith. Hal has spent more than two decades
working with disabled and deaf children; Helen has opened their home to foreign students for many
years, and has been a leading supporter of the Jefferson Symphony and Foothills Art Center. Helen and
Hal chose the Symphony as recipient of the $1,000 honorarium accompanying the award.
As the 1997-98 Rotary year drew to a close, President Pat and Golden Rotarians were commended for
their outstanding contributions in each of the Four Avenues of Service—Club, Community, Vocational,
and International. RI President Glen Kinross and District Governor P.K. Bonde presented the Club with
a Presidential Citation, thanking Golden Rotary for “a year in which you put real meaning into the theme
Show Rotary Cares.”
If Pat prepared for his Presidency by climbing a mountain in Tanzania, Diane Kessel did her
apprenticeship in May, visiting 16 cities and 12 Rotary clubs in the state of Sao Paulo, Brazil, as leader
of the District 5450 GSE team. She became an instant authority on the production of alcohol from sugar
cane and moderately articulate in Portugese; both talents will serve her well in the coming year as pilot,
pacesetter, and potentate of the Rotary Club of Golden, Colorado. 1998-1999 promises to be a
challenging and exciting year for Golden Rotary and Golden Rotarians!
And Then It Was 13....
1998-1999 The Diane Dynasty
Exuberance, enthusiasm, erudition — and a bit of funk — marked Golden Rotary’s 13th year, with
President Diane Kessel. A third generation Rotarian and daughter of a District Governor (in faraway
Texas), Diane joined Rotary in 1990, transferring to Golden in 1994. Her knowledge of Rotary and
commitment to its principles well befitted her for regal responsibilities. Her leadership team included
President-Elect Jim Halderman and Vice President Regina Benson. Loyal Larry Fike completed a full
decade as Secretary and Larry Hall exercised his accounting skills as keeper of the Treasury. And, of
course, Adele Emerson-Darrow, who as Sergeant-at-Arms bent many an arm with verve and great good
humor.
A busy year of socializing, sport, and service began with the annual march in the Buffalo Bill Days
Parade....a stalwart array of Rotarians uniformly out of step pounded the pavement to once again carry
the banner for service above self. The club hosted a picnic for the residents of Canyon Gate, continuing
the patronage of this community facility for seniors.
Ah, but the joys of revenge! The glory of the Big Win! The annual Family Day Picnic with the
Evergreen Club was, as usual, capped by the traditional Vollyball Tournament of Champions. Each
team had scored two victories and in this, the rubber match, tensions ran high. The Evergreen team had
practiced repeatedly, invoked yoga and power breakfasts, while the Golden gang had prepared for
combat with a couple of warm beers. Yet talent and determination won out, and Golden easily
triumphed in straight sets, 15-9, 15-3. A sizable share of the victory was earned by Golden Rotary’s
secret weapon, Exchange Student Thorsten Dullweber, far right in the photo below..
But then treachery entered the picture. A nefarious band of trophynappers made off with the precious
symbol of success, posting an anonymous ransom note to President Diane. Loyal Golden fans recruited
a posse of vigilantes and the FBI was called upon to analyze fingerprints, beer stains, and gravy on the
ransom demand. Happily all was well in the end, when the missing trophy was recovered, the
perpetrators soundly thrashed, and President Diane returned from a rescue mission to Evergreen with the
memento in hand.
August brought a fine crop of Western Slope peaches and Golden Rotary’s annual Peach Sale, under the
stern command of Col. Dick Sargent, was again an outstanding success. More than 900 advance orders
were pro-cessed, and 1350 cases of succulent fruit delivered. Rotarian Bob Short was recognized for his
marketing talents, selling more than 10% of the total deliveries. The proceeds of $7800 set a new
record, enabling a number of contributions to deserving charities.
Among those charities is the Christian Action Guild, which so ably serves the needy families of Golden.
In October, Golden Rotary contributed $3,000 to the Guild’s food bank. Through a special RI program,
the Feinstein Foundation of Connecticut matched that donation with an additional $1,500. In total,
Golden Rotary’s cash contributions to the Guild during the year exceeded $6,000. As well as about a ton
of non-perishable food and an exceptional variety of clothes, toys, etc.
Sadly, in August Golden Rotary lost a valued member when Herb Klein passed away. The Club made a
contribution to the youth program of Herb’s church, in his memory. Herb was a thoughtful, gregarious,
enjoyable member and is much missed.
September brought three new members to the fold, when Mike Bestor, Jim McGuigan, and Bob Arnold
became Golden Rotarians. A new program to encourage long term support for the RI Foundation was
initiated when Dick Sargent and Dana Moran became Rotary Benefactors. And another tradition was
born with the First Annual Ugly Tie Day on October 20th. The aforesaid McGuigan easily captured the
prize with his talent for tasteless neckwear.
During the fall, the Club hosted the sabbatical of Rotary scholar Aya Ogata from Niigata, Japan. Aya
spent three months in English and cultural studies at Regis University. Aya’s outgoing personality and
good humor were regular highlights of the weekly breakfasts.
A new and rewarding project was initiated by Golden Rotary in October. In the “I Can Read” literacy
program a dozen Rotarians and six of their spouses spent some time each week with Pleasant View
Elementary School students who could benefit from one-on-one mentoring. The students were
encouraged to set their own goals and were rewarded with small gifts for achievements. The Club
donated $240 to purchase backpacks full of school supplies as additional incentives.
In November, Golden Rotary hosted its first No-Dinner Dinner. This unique non-event, conceived and
fabricated by Prez-Elect Jim Halderman, offered non-attendees an opportunity to purchase tickets and
then stay home, enjoying a Broncos game (or other diversion) while contributing to a worthy charity.
Response from dozens of anti-social supporters netted more than $2,000 for the Christian Action Guild.
Early in November, Hurricane Mitch devastated Central America. Working through District 5810 in
Texas, Golden Rotary purchased two pallets of dehydrated food for the relief effort. Each pallet
provided 20,000 nutritious meals for hungry Hondurans.
December’s holidays were celebrated with further giving to the community. Golden Rotary helped in
modifications of his home to accommodate access by a wheelchair bound youngster; granted $300 for
special education equipment in Pleasant View Elementary; and sponsored two contestants in the Special
Olympics program. Rotarians purchased and delivered to welfare families 40 ‘holiday shares’, the
ingredients for a bountiful Christmas dinner. And once again, the holiday spirit was shared with senior
residents of Canyon Gate Apartments who joined Rotarians for an entertaining holiday breakfast.
Golden Rotary gave itself some Christmas gifts when it inducted four new members — Eileen
Schurmann, Bill Woodall, and Marsha Hutchinson. And JoAnn Thistlewood, who became our first
Honorary Rotarian in recognition of her exceptional contributions to the community and in particular, to
the leadership of the Christian Action Guild.
The New Year began with the initiation of yet another continuing program of service. Golden Rotary
volunteers joined with a number of other community organizations working with Project CURE in
packaging donated medical supplies for shipment to needy third world countries. The Project CURE
work sessions, under the guidance of Jim McGuigan and Sandy Emery, became a regular monthly
program.
And another recurring program in February celebrated the Power of Flowers. Vice Prez Regina Benson
lead a team of Golden Rotarians as they collected hundreds of potted flowers at the conclusion of the
Denver Home & Garden Show, ‘gleaned’ their foliage, surrounded them in decorative wrap, and then
delivered 800 colorful plants to cheer the days of sick and elderly residents in local hospices and nursing
centers.
The premiere social event of the early spring, of course, is the annual Mardi Gras, the collaborative
fundraiser of the Jefferson Symphony and Golden Rotary. Fat Tuesday was again celebrated on
Saturday with President-Elect Jim Halderman at the reins. More than 200 revelers enjoyed an evening of
fine food, dance, and silent auction. Past President Sherm Wenger, perspiring in 16th century knightly
garb, was crowned King of the Carnival. The efforts of dedicated members such as Mary Dreger, Prez
Diane Kessel, Constanze Liebl, Larry Fike, Sandy and Ted Algermissen, and many others paid off when
the Symphony and Rotary each netted about $7,000 from the event.
Highlights in March were a field trip — breakfast with the Golden Volunteer Fire Department arranged
by Rotarian and City Manager Mike Bestor, the return of former member John Miller, and the
announcement that Sandy Emery would lead the next District 5450 GSE team on an exchange visit to
District 4560 in central Brazil.
And in April Golden Rotarians became parents of a sort, when the Club ‘adopted’ a 1.1 mile stretch of
South Golden Road. Sam Allen, Community Service Chairman Adele Emerson-Darrow, and fellow
Rotarians began a monthly outing, collecting and disposing of trash along the busy street. April, too,
saw the loss of long-time Golden Rotarian and four-time Paul Harris Fellow, Dick Sargent, who
transferred to Denver Club 31. And the Club again co-sponsored the Young Ameritowne program at
Fairmont Elementary.
At the District 5450 Annual Conference in Estes Park, Golden Rotary was thrice honored. The Club
received a Presidential Citation, recognition of its balanced and productive approach to the four avenues
of service. The I Can Read program was awarded Honorable Mention for the Scott Metcalf Award.
And once again the Golden Nuggets was presented the Bemis Award as the Best Club Newsletter in the
District. This was the second time that Editarian Dana Moran was so honored, the first time in the 34
year history of this award that one Editarian had won it twice.
Golden Rotary took special pride, on April 27th, in the presentation of its RI Charter to the Interact Club
at D’Evelyn High. Formation of the new youth group was overseen by Rotarians Constanze Liebl and
D’Evelyn Principal Tom Synnott. Matt Dominick, October Student of the Month and a 1998 RYLA
participant, was elected chairman of the budding Interact Club.
In May, Golden Rotary hosted the visiting GSE team from District 4560 in Brazil as Sandy Emery and
her team departed for Minas Gerais. The 1998 Group Study Exchange also was with Brazil, the Sao
Paulo district, and was lead by then President-Elect Diane Kessel, so members were overjoyedby the
selection of a second team leader from the Golden club and delighted to have Sandy representing both
Golden and the District. She and her team of bright young professionals enjoyed a busy but brilliant
month getting acquainted with communities throughout the state of Minas Gerais, returning home tired,
with ample tonnage of baggage, but with warm memories of the outgoing hospitality of Rotarians
throughout the world.
The 1999 Rotary International Convention was held in Singapore June 13-16. 18,000 Rotarians and
guests attended, not the least among them President-Elect Jim Halderman and Pending First Lady Peggy.
Their representation of Golden Rotary in this, the largest world conference ever, was underwritten by
Club members through weekly fines, raffles, and gifts.
A busy year of fellowship and service concluded with the traditional annual banquet, this year at the new
Golden Hotel. President Diane was feted for her dedication and success in, as Prez-Elect Jim put it,
‘stretching the envelope of service.’ Golden Rotary’s highest honor, the Service Above Self award, was
presented to Harry Horblit, recognizing his extraordinary contributions to the community over a career
of nearly four decades. Receiving the Club’s appreciation as Rotarian of the Year was Sandy Emery, for
her dedicated leadership of the Club’s International Service programs and the GSE team to District
4560.
It was, indeed, a year to remember. Diane’s enthusiasm and leadership talent assured that the Kessel
epoch would — and did — provide both merriment and service, in every way an enjoyable and
productive year. But for all her notoriety as a barber shop harmonist, Diane was rarely able to budge the
traditional inhibition against song at breakfast. Some things never change....
Moving into the 21st Century
1999-2000
With Maestro di Cappella Halderman
Walter Cronkite might have observed, “What kind of year was it? A year like any other year....” And in
a way it was, when Golden Rotary once again trounced Evergreen Rotary 2-Zip in the annual volleyball
competition during the joint family picnic in early August. But in other respects, President Jim -symphonist, philosopher, humanitarian – made it a Rotary year to remember. He and First Lady Peggy
started right by joining 17,843 other Rotarians at the Rotary International Convention in Singapore,
where Jim was a featured player in a ‘pick up’ Rotary orchestra. After the festivities, they diverted for a
few days on Bali, where President Jim was observed dancing on the beach at midnight wearing nothing
but a pareu and a Rotary pin.
Agreeing that “Reading is Fun”, Golden Rotarians stepped up the award-winning I Can Read Program
at Pleasant View Elementary, mentoring youngsters who needed to develop improved reading skills.
Adele and Frank Darrow, George and Sue Mitchell, Jewell and Doyle Roberts, Sam Allen, John Henry,
George Mamalis, President Jim, and of course, program leader Diane Kessel, were among the regular
participants.
In August, Frederike Grillo, our Youth Exchange Student from Limburgerhof, Germany, arrived. Host
family Judy and Pat Madison immediately adopted Fred, who charmed everyone with her buoyant
personality and exceptional command of English. Although earlier scheduled for three host families,
Fred was so comfortable and so loved in the Madison family that she spent the entire school year with
them.
Diane Kessel, with the enthusiastic support of Marcia Hutchinson, led the District 5450 annual Rotary
Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) camp in Estes Park. 202 students from Colorado, Wyoming, and
Nebraska participated, including young people from D’Evelyn and Golden High Schools, sponsored by
Golden Rotary.
And in August, Golden Rotarians sold 15 tons of peaches – an estimated 84,000 luscious lobes – in the
most successful annual peach sale to date. Thanks to the leadership of Chief Peach Ron Hoskins and
Super Salesman Bob Short, and the participation of every Golden Rotarian, the sale raised nearly
$10,000 for Rotary’s charitable causes. Testimony to his marketing talents, Bob Short alone sold more
than 300 cases, 25% of the total deliveries.
Golden Rotary spread its international wings again in the new year, making grants for a children’s
kitchen project in Rancho de Luz, Brazil, and for physical therapy equipment for developmentally
disabled youngsters in Eloi Mendes, Brazil. Both contributions were matched by grants from the Rotary
Foundation. Past Prez and Club Ambassador Diane Kessel personally delivered the contributions. The
Club also made grants to the Llamba micro-credit program in Ethopia and to co-sponsor Operation
Taghoy’s cleft palate program in the Philippines. Throughout the year, Rotarians – nudged along by Jim
McGuigan – sorted and packaged medical equipment for shipment to third world countries through
Project CURE. And perhaps appropriate, since his classification was International Business, Matjaz Bren
joined Golden Rotary.
September introduced what became a series of luncheons for Canyon Gate seniors. A dozen Golden
Rotarians prepared a sumptuous repast, highlighted by homemade pies – peach, of course – from Jewel
Roberts and Adele Emerson-Darrow. And with guidance from mentor Barbara Harris, the new Interact
Club at D’Evelyn High School, with 20 members, got off to a running start, electing officers and
scheduling several charitable enterprises.
1999-2000 was a particularly rewarding year for Golden Rotary. It sponsored not one, but two (!) new
expansion clubs. The first to start was the Peak-to-Peak Rotary Club in Gilpin County. The District
Governor’s Special Representative was Pat Madison and founding President for the P2P Club was Judge
Fred Rodgers. The organizing meeting was held in Blackhawk on October 21st. More on this and the
second expansion club later.
Rotarians celebrated Halloween with a bit of abandon, costumed and more than a little frightening. The
object was to introduce Fred Grillo to the mysteries and absurdities of an old-fashioned American
Halloween. Mission accomplished. Libby Clark, an awesome Medusa and John Henry, in fashionable
seersucker, won the Best Costume awards, while Eileen Schurmann and Adele E-D shared the prize for
Best Carved Pumpkin. And Sandy Algermissen’s new BMW turned into a pumpkin at midnight.
Then came Thanksgiving...and a spectacular dinner for the residents of Canyon Gate, assembled by
Adele Emerson-Darrow and hosted by Regina and Dave Benson, Jewell and Doyle Roberts, and the
ever-ebullient Frank Darrow. More than 40 seniors, often lonely during the holidays, took part and left
fattened and happy.
Then came Christmas...with appropriate observations. Golden Rotary purchased 100 cases of fresh
Florida fruit, selling some to members, contributing the majority to the Christian Action Guild to help
make happier holiday dinners for needy families. If there was concern with the forthcoming Y2K, it was
well disguised during the annual Club Christmas Celebration, organized by Eileen Schurmann in the
Golden Visitors Center. Toys were collected for youngsters and the auction of holiday ornaments
brought in a tidy $300.
In the spirit of the season, Golden Rotary gave a special gift to neighboring Evergreen Rotary. Sherman
Wenger, Past President, Paul Harris Fellow, Foundation Benefactor, and perpetual host for parties and
visitors, moved over the hill, transferring to the Evergreen Club. The prospect of transfer of Sherm’s
exceptional talents on the volley ball court was a matter of grave concern. Accordingly, Lawyer Sindt
prepared a Covenant in Perpetuity, barring Wenger’s participation in any manner in any sporting event
involving the Rotary Clubs of Evergreen and Golden. Sherman, with uncharacteristic solemnity, swore
adherence to the conditions of the contract.
Despite dire predictions, the 21st Century dawned without disaster, and Golden Rotarians celebrated the
birth of the new Rotary Club of Clear Creek 2000. This, the 47th club in District 5450, was co-sponsored
by the Golden, Evergreen, and Summit County Clubs. The gala Charter Night at the Easter Seals
Handicamp was a smashing success. And the CC2000 Club was the very first to be chartered by Rotary
International in the new millennium! Adele Emerson-Darrow, Mac McMichael, Dana Moran, and Jim
Halderman were among the Golden Rotarians who put hours of effort into the successful expansion.
February brought two exciting events. The Annual Ski Train Excursion trundled two dozen Rotarians
and families to Winter Park for a day of skiing and debauchery. And on February 25th, Golden Rotarians
and new Gilpin Rotarians celebrated Charter Night for the new Peak to Peak Rotary Club. DG’s Special
Representative Pat Madison arranged a splendiferous banquet at the Isle of Capri Casino and Prez Jim
joined P2P’s new President in a musical interlude that brought down the house. Golden Rotary took
particular pride in sponsoring the genesis of this second expansion club in the one year.
Then came Fat Tuesday, observed with due reverence on Saturday, March
4th. Without a doubt this year’s Mardi Gras, was the biggest, best, – and
most profitable, – in the series of fund-raisers sponsored jointly with the
Jefferson Symphony. Nearly 300 celebrants enjoyed fellowship and fun,
while bidding aggressively in the silent auction and dancing the night away.
Both the King and Queen of the Gras were Golden Rotarians, Dave Jonson
trying to fit a Kingly crown on top of his cannibal afro, and Larry Fike, in
drag as the Tooth Fairy, capturing the prize as Queen. Sandy Algermissen,
Regina Benson, Eileen Schurmann, and a host of volunteers worked
tirelessly – and successfully – to bring in an incredible $13,399.14 to
support Rotary projects (the Symphony netted an equal bonus). The
Golden High Key Club and our D’Evelyn Interact Club received thank you
gifts of $100 each for their help in making the evening so great.
Mardi Gras Queen ‘Tooth Fairy’ Larry
and King ‘Cannibal’ Dave
dance the night away
In April our D’Evelyn Interact Club members delivered three carloads of food, clothing, art supplies,
personal care items and magazines to the Urban Peaks Center, and hosted a spaghetti dinner for the
homeless youth in the Center. Regina and Dave Benson served as sous-chefs while Interact President
Matt Dominick prepared the award-winning marinara sauce..
And on May 23rd, in a hotly contested election highlighted by charges of ballot-box stuffing, Golden
Rotarians elected as officers for the 2000-2001 Rotary Year Mac McMichael as Vice President, Larry
Fike as Perpetual Secretary, and Larry Hall as Enduring Treasurer. Selected as Directors were Ron
Hoskins, Foundation; George Mamalis, Club Service; Bob Arnold, Community Service; Don Hogue,
International Service, and Barbara Harris, Vocational Service. The earlier election of Regina Benson as
President, and Sandy Algermissen as President-Elect was reaffirmed.
Continuing its generous support of the Christian Action Guild, President Jim presented a check for
$2,000 to CAG President and Rotary Honorary Member JoAnn Thistlewood. Donations to the Guild
during the year, in fact, totaled more than $3500....plus, of course, more than a ton of canned and dry
foods, and myriad personal items such as school supplies, clothing, and reading materials. Indeed,
during the Rotary Year 1999-2000, Golden Rotary contributed nearly $18,000 to a variety of deserving
causes ranging from Special Olympics to the Season for Non-Violence.
The Annual President’s Dinner in June capped a year of commitment and service. Receiving the Service
Above Self Award were Bob and Jo Schantz, honoring their exceptional commitment to youth and care
of the needy. Selected as Rotarian of the Year was Pat
Madison....and indeed, the entire Madison Family. Pat represented
Golden Rotary as Governor’s Special Representative in the formation
of the Peak-to-Peak expansion club. He participated in the Read to
Me program and the entire family lovingly hosted our exchange
student, Fred Grillo. Pat wears the watch but the Club honored the
whole Madison Menage. Pat also received a citation from RI for his
dedicated effort in club expansion.
The Club expressed its affection and appreciation to retiring
President Jim as District Governor Alan Loeb, with solemn
formality, swore in incoming President Regina and her cabinet. And
the year concluded with serious celebration and great fellowship, as Golden Rotarians looked forward to
the reign of Queen Regina.
President Jim recognizes the Rotarian(s)
of the Year
Turn-of-the-Century President Jim Halderman
and 2000-2001 President Regina Benson
At 15, Better Than Ever
2000-2001
The Regency of Regina
In its first full year of the 21st Century, the Rotary Club of Golden enjoyed renewed growth, introduced
hi-tech communications, supported exciting new community and international projects, and again was
recognized as one of the finest clubs in District 5450. Much of the credit for an exceptional year of
service was owed to President Regina Benson, whose boundless energy
inspired the entire membership. No slouches either, her cabinet
combined fellowship and creativity; it included President-Elect Sandy
Algermissen, Vice President Mac McMichael, perpetual Secretary Larry
Fike, and financial wizard Larry Hall as Treasurer. Bill Woodall served
with charm and brilliance as Sergeant-at-Arms.
A dramatic change in the Club’s bulletin, the Golden Nuggets, began
with the new year. Editarian Jane Taylor introduced e-mail distribution,
providing instant delivery to all members wired to the ‘Net. Response
was very favorable, and by the end of the year, only three antediluvian members had to depend on the
USPS for delivery of the latest Golden Rotary news.
A special day in August – Charter members of
Golden Rotary assembled for fellowship and
memories
The Annual Picnic at Grampsas Park was great fun...strolling magicians and steel drum musicians. But
in an otherwise thoroughly upbeat year, there was one early downer...yes, the Evergreen Rotary Club
slipped a couple of ringers onto their team and, by dint of trickery and skullduggery, won the Annual
Volleyball Tournament. Golden had slam-dunked the last two tournaments and led the series four to
two, so our team was gracious in defeat. But vowed revenge in 2001...
But the loss was soon forgotten when attention turned to the annual Peach Sale. Yet another in the
continuing series of successes, the delivery of 1,320 cases of luscious fruit this year contributed more
than $10,000 to the club’s charitable coffers. Sales Manager Ron Hoskins was so elated with the success
that he got married (to the lovely Michelle)! Emalie Madison again did the bookkeeping and Sandy
Algermissen organized the publilcity and logistics.
Beginning of the school year revived the D’Evelyn Interact Club, mentored by Barbara Harris. The Club
enacted a constitution and by-laws, formalities which preceded a busy year. It began with an Autumn
Fest Costume Ball and a repeat of the Club’s mission to assist homeless youngsters in the Urban Peak
shelter. With support from Rotary, Interactors collected several cartons of hygiene supplies –
toothbrushes, shampoo, deodorants, combs, etc. – during a meeting with Golden Rotarians.
As the Holiday Season approached, Golden Rotary committed $4,000 for the purchase of food shares
under the Colorado Shares Program. Many Rotarians chipped in to buy additional shares, assuring hearty
Christmas dinners for dozens of needy families. These donations were complemented by the
contribution of several hundred toys for distribution to children of all ages through the Christian Action
Guild.
And the annual Holiday Party at the Arbor House on West 32nd was a smashing success, highlighted by
the auction of weird and wild ornaments raising a bounty for the Guild. The
funds supported the Guild’s holiday food program serving more than 400 low
income families in Golden. In appreciation for their service and catering of the
holiday party, Rotary contributed $500 to the D’Evelyn Interact Club.
The New Year revived a continuing tradition...the Golden Rotary Ski Train.
Hosted by Treasurer Larry Hall, a passel of Rotarians and their families rode in
luxury to Winter Park, risked dismemberment on the slopes, and returned home
sunburned, sore, and satiated with snow. This prepared them for the challenge of
the Flower Power Project, under the tutelage of Warren Spaulding and Doyle
Roberts....more than 700 flowering plants were cleaned and gleaned, and
delivered to seniors and rest homes throughout the community.
The Power of Flowers
On a more vital note, Golden Rotary contributed $1,000 toward a District Disaster Project to benefit
victims of earthquakes in India and El Salvador, and joined other clubs in packaging medical supplies
for shipment to those countries. And the Board authorized a new, exciting program to obtain donations
of used musical instruments, refurbish them, and but them in the hands of budding musicians in the
Golden schools. Mary Anne Fleet and Regina Benson conceived the program and kicked it off with
some dusty but lyrical instruments from their personal archives.
And March saw the fulfillment of a long lingering ambition...through
President Regina’s persistence and with a bit of a boost from Rotarian and
City Manager Mike Bestor, we finally got our first ‘Golden Rotary Meets on
Tuesdays’ sign posted at the entrance to the community on 6th Avenue. The
new sign immediately served to direct visiting Rotarians to new friends at
Rolling Hills CC.
On the road to Rotary
April was a big month for Golden Rotary. At the annual Jefferson County
Good News breakfast, the Club received the Community Service Award for
its many contributions to “Weaving the Fabric of the Community.”
And Golden Rotary was a star at the District 5450 annual convention in April. It received four – count
them four! – major awards for service and contributions. Our own JoAnn Thistlewood received the
District’s most prestigious personal recognition, the Volunteer in Service Award, for her dedication to,
and leadership of, the Golden Christian Action Guild, and for her instrumental role in the Club’s
community service programs. The plaque was nice, but JoAnn really glowed when former Bronco
Reggie Rivers gave her a warm and enthusiastic hug.
As a direct result of President Regina’s PEP – Publicity Enhancement Project – Golden Rotary received
the District Publicity Award for consistent pursuit and document publicity of the Club’s community and
fundraising activities. The Club’s success in PEP echoed the RI theme of “Creating Awareness.”
(Appreciating her aggressiveness in publicity for Rotary, incoming District Governor Bill Leeper
promptly asked President Regina to join the District PR Committee, requesting that she “do for the
District what she had done for Golden Rotary.”)
Then Golden Rotary was presented with the District’s Foundation Giving Award, recognizing the
highest level of per capita donations to the Rotary Foundation, which had exceeded $143 per member at
the time of the Conference. (Incidentally, Golden Rotarians went on to top $197 per member by the end
of June!!)
Capping off the evening, Golden Rotary received a special citation from RI President Frank Develyn for
reaching and exceeding his goals for balanced Vocational, International, Community, and Club Service
accomplishments. All in all, a very ‘rewarding’ District Conference! And incidentally, the crackerjack
display assembled by semi-Rotarian Dave Benson should have received its own award for ingenuity and
motion.
It was with considerable pride, and a few tears, that, on May 22nd, Golden Rotary said ‘farewell and good
fortune’ to the D’Evelyn Interact Club. During their final breakfast with Golden Rotary, D’Evelyn
Interactors presented their own Service Above Self Award to Past President Clark Evans. With the
relocation of the school to Lakewood – across from the Federal Penitentiary, alas – guidance of the Club
was transferred to JeffCo Southwest Rotary. But under the tutelage of Barbara Harris, Diane Kessel, and
former Rotarians Constanz Liebl and Tom Synnott, the Interact Club had quickly matured and adopted
the Rotary principles of service to the community.
Golden Rotary bid the D’Evelyn Interactors good luck, and promptly turned to the formation of a new
Interact club at Golden High. Indeed, the previous week, May 15th, the Golden High Interact Club
received its charter. Rotarians Diane Kessel and Pat Madison, with no small amount of support from
Judy Madison, lead the initiative. And under the guidance of Russ Sindt, five Golden High students,
including the President-Elect of the Interact Club, participated in the annual RYLA camp in Estes Park.
Speaking of Golden High, our Vocational Service Committee initiated a new program to recognize
outstanding Drama, Music, and Creative Arts students with the first Annual Student Artist Awards.
An exciting and rewarding Rotary year concluded with the sensational
Annual Banquet and Awards Ceremony on June 29th at the Table
Mountain Inn. It was a gala evening replete with fellowship and fun.
Outgoing District Governor Alan Loeb and Incoming DG Bill Leeper
shared memories and expectations. Splendid Fellow George Mamalis
was cited as 2001 Rotarian of the Year for his innumerable contributions
as chairman of Club Service as well as his endearing sense of humor.
The Golden Rotary 2001 Service Above Self Award went to Jack Galland,
President Regina introduces
in appreciation for his 30 years of volunteer service to the Jefferson
Service Above Self Awardee Jack Galland
Symphony. Jack’s dedication to the 90 member orchestra is legend....
working 40+ hour weeks, increasing its funding from $5,000 to $300,000 a year, doing everything from
selling tickets to setting up chairs.
As the 2000-2001 Year became history, Sandy Algermissen assumed the reins as Golden Rotary
President, thanking Past Prez Regina for her inspirational leadership and congratulating her on the
Club’s remarkable accomplishments. And Golden Rotarians rose as one to applaud them both.
2001-2002 President Sandy Algermissen,
Incoming DG Bill Leeper, Outgoing DG Alan
Loeb, and Retiring President Regina Benson