On Tuesday evening, Bainbridge Rotary Club members and their guests gathered at Scooters at the Bainbridge Marina, for dinner and to celebrate the accomplishments of the past year. A presentation of annual awards was made before the gavel was passed to incoming President Greg Smith.

Outgoing President Threasa Hall commented on 14 successful projects the club undertook this year, giving special notice to the Dancing with the Stars successful fundraiser held in April, and the Senior Valentine party held in February at Memorial Manor. Also mentioned was the receipt of the District Governor’s citation, presented at the district conference held at Hilton Head in April.

The club received six new members and participated in scholarship and community service projects throughout Hall’s tenure as president. Printed pages reflecting each activity had been prepared and placed at the dining places.

Several Rotarians were recognized for special service to Rotary. Among those were Melinda and Neal Taylor, who acted as a host family for the GRSP student. They have agreed to serve in the same capacity in the coming year.

Special recognition was given to Greg Smith, who served as program chairman, for the quality and diversity of programs presented.

The prized Rotarian of the Year award went to Kim Walden, who tearfully accepted the plaque from an equally tearful Hall, as she expressed her appreciation for all the guidance and hard work she received from Walden during the year.

Marlene Free was recognized as the Assistant District Governor, Mary Robinson as a Friend of Rotary, and Gerard Kwilecki received the Service Award. Marjorie Mayfield was applauded for her leadership in organizing the Dancing with the Stars event, and Emily Yent was thanked for her work as Foundation Chair.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Kwilecki presented Hall with a past president’s plaque and also a proclamation naming her a Will Watts Fellow.