C:\\Rotary Files\\Rotary History - The First 15 Years.wpd

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

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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