Johnson and George Carpenter, Rotarian of the Year.
The 288 Corridor Rotary Club held their end-of-term party Friday (June 19), swearing in new officers and bidding farewell to those who have served in the past year.
President Albert “AJ” Johnson handed out plaques to recognize outstanding members and even gave out some gag awards.
Secretary Bill Eisen accepted a plaque for his service and Treasurer George Carpenter also received a plaque, as well as an ovation for agreeing to be treasurer for the third year in a row.
The Rotarian of the Year award was presented to George Carpenter, who got teary-eyed and said, “I was just doing my job! I never expected this!”
As Johnson was about to hand the program over to Rotary Assistant Governor Barbara Robie, President-Elect Sherry Stockwell stepped forward to present Johnson with some awards that recognized his contributions.
Embarrassed, Johnson said, “I’m a giver!” as Stockwell told him he had to open his gifts right then.
Stockwell and the rest of the officers presented Johnson with a trophy with a football on top. “That’s because you keep us all updated on what’s going on in the NFL!” laughed Stockwell, referring to Johnson’s professional football career.
The second gift was a lovely crystal statuette that recognized Johnson for “breathing new life” into the club.
Now celebrating its 10th year, the 288 Corridor Rotary Club raised $2,500 and obtained $84,500 in Global Grants this past year. Nine members took the money to India to support educational programs and to invest in quality-of-life issues.
Fortunately, member (and 2016-2017 President-Elect) Harish Krishnarao’s mother- and father-in-law live near the location in India and were able to help the Rotarians navigate and translate.
Robie swore in the new officers and then the crowd was turned over to Jimmy Aranda with Dionisio Winery for a wine tasting.
The 288 Corridor Rotary Club meets every Thursday at 7:30 a.m. at Big Horn BBQ, located at 2300 Smith Ranch Rd. For more information about the Club, visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rotary-Club-of-288-Corridor/326576570719815.
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