By Ed Simmons, Jr.
cpreporter@lcs.net
Caroline's popular and long-serving Library Director, Kay Brooks, was installed as this year's Rotary president at a meeting of the club last Thursday at The Timbers Restaurant in Ladysmith. The filet mignon dinner with crab cake was "superb," she said, and restaurant owner Danny Carter a most gracious host. The South African wines served at dinner – Firefinch Sauvignon Blanc and Graham Beck Gamekeeper – are also available at The Grapes of Taste wine shop Kay owns with her husband Wayne.
George Atwell, also known as "Mister Rotary" for his many years of service to the club, the community and the world, stepped aside as president to make way for Kay. One of her goals this year is to help King George establish a Rotary, just as Caroline did 12 years ago. She also wants to join West Point Rotary in support of the Virginia Indian Cultural Center. The club will also continue its support of Rotary International's 20-year campaign that has almost completely eradicated polio. Rotary is also helping people around the world with wells for clean drinking water.
The club recognized two new Paul Harris Fellows, Macine Williams and Greg Killough, and Allen Ramsay as a Continuing Fellow. Inducted as a new member was Lesa Williams, event coordinator at The Meadow Event Park. Dolores Michaud will serve as vice president, Pat Wright and Will Gravatt will continue as secretary and treasurer, and Carroll Elliott will be sergeant-at-arms. District Governor Ron Marion joined the club for the event.