Sober looking Past President Milky on the morning after---, September 21. I WOKE UP the next morning looking for some place where I could hide and bury myself until I forget all of the embarrassing moments. But I thought later-that it was what a "debunking" was all about, so what can I say, except that in typical Rotary fashion, it was a successful debunking! I had prepared, supposedly, The Speech of my life and never had the chance to deliver it. I was so distracted with all the surprises, the papers I wrote my speech on was all crumpled and torn. Actually, all I can remember about that night was that the Mayor bought me my first drink and the ex-Mayor bought me the second. After that, I forgot everything that I really planned for the night. But all I really wanted to say was THANKS to each one of you who helped me survive my year as President of our Club. I have actually come to a conclusion that each Rotarian should be President at least once in their lifetime. My experiences with Rotary have made my life whole. If not for Rotary, I would not be able to meet and make friends with such warmth and compassionate people of our city. If I may, let me say the things I was unable to say last Friday.

Thanks to Sec/Treasurer Frank Hedley, who has kept me and the Club together in spite of my "out of this world" ways (sometimes) in running the meetings…for one, he allowed me to become the President on record to spend more on beverages and wines to accommodate bigger and important meetings, inviting spouses and guests- for the sake of fellowship. My justification has always been- Fellowship brings about Service... and indeed, it happened. .

There is also Bob George who has been my consistent mentor from the beginning. Even if he is very busy, Bob always found the time to help me out. He also led the Club in two major events, the successful Fireworks Sale and the Capuchino-Mills High School luncheon, which raised and made some money for the first time in its event history.

My Rotary sponsor, Nigel Jesson who is also busy as a bee, has always been there to assist me in almost anything I needed, cyberspace related or not. He taught me how to write this newsletter on these formats.

Mayor Larry Franzella made time to make sure all the important social events of the Club are finely executed. Larry always takes care of the details that make these events memorable - from the music to the table décor to the menu to welcoming all our guests warmly. We will always remember our Christmas party, Poker party and President's ball.

And of course, any meeting is not the same and as much fun without Terry Jackson. You already know what I mean... We'll always remember the Children's Evening at the Park - when all of us, the younger and the "older children" had a great time with the Powder Puff kids. Thanks!

And then there's Mario Puccinelli making sure that we enjoy our lunch during our weekly meetings.

Fran White handled our Employee Recognition day superbly - even coming up with our own original songs.

Al Stockton did a great job handling the 4-Way Test program this year. It truly established our presence among local businesses in San Bruno.

Wayne Parker led us in supporting the local community theatre during the yearly "Best of Broadway" at Capuchino.

Peter Jalilie made our mission more meaningful by our participation to the Homeless Shelter project in South San Francisco.

Lastly, I commend Emile Hons and again Frank Hedley for their leadership in putting our Club in touch with the needs of the Kingdom of Tonga's Fire Department. Our donation of breathing apparatus equipment for their firemen's use made their jobs safer. Even the King was happy.

Looking back, I had no regrets when George Robinson nominated me as the President Elect in year 2000. Though he asked me first in 1999, he was patient to wait for my answer a year later. You know, I can go on and on and on, BUT this time, I have to edit myself to avoid those "Microphone" awards again. But not without thanking President Marylou Johnson, who I believe, has engineered this "Got Milk" event. (Marylou, here is what I have to tell you--- your debunking is months down the line. I started early by gathering "stuff" since you were President Elect. You have the right to be afraid.)

Going back to The Morning After: I got back to my senses and realized what a blessing it is to enjoy your friendship and to receive (over and above other things), a Proclamation from the City of San Bruno and the great American Flag. I will never forget this for as long as I live. I was so proud to show them to my children. Tearfully proud. Thanks again. You are all special to me.