To The Incredible Emmaus Rotary Club,
 
Admittedly, as I sit here and write my final President’s Message, I am reflecting with many thoughts and emotions.  This past year has been such an incredible ride.  Ups, Downs, All Arounds!  And even though it wasn’t the typical Rotary year, no words can express the pride I feel to have served such an amazing Rotary Club.  It was a year where we all came together, defined our roles as community leaders and extended our Service Above Self to the world.  I have truly enjoyed the positions I have served to get to this point.  I have grown in so many ways and I have you to thank for that. 
 
Thank you to the Executive Committee, Lexa Shallcross, Mike Waddell and Meghan Reed for your consistent and tireless support.  You guys truly made me learn the meaning of team.  Thank you to the Board of Directors, Ceil Birdsell, Valerie Deneen, Eric Loch and Sal Verrastro for helping us guide the year through so many changes and important decisions to make our club stronger. 
 
Thank you to Chris Wills and Jim Palmquist.  Our club would not be what it is without you two.  I learned first-hand this year how much time behind the scenes you two spend to your commitment to Emmaus Rotary. 
 
Thank you to Don Blose.  Your wit and persistence to keep everyone smiling by digging into their pockets is priceless and so important.  I never thought Dale’s shoes could be filled and right now he is trying to figure out why his shoes are so loose! 
 
Thank you to Rick Zayaitz who I could write an entire book of thanks!  Following your foot-steps as the Immediate Past President was a true honor.  Your friendship is like no other and I love you like family.  
 
Thank you to our Committee Chairs Bill Erdman, Cindy Hornaman, Nicole Steirer, Karen Hobson, J.P. Raynock, Rick Zayaitz, Rose Galeano-Phillips, John Chisca, Eileen Prokop, David Dunn, Meghan Reed, Ashley Lorah, John Zayaitz, Mario Cozzubbo, Mark Erle, Alicia Ruiz-Orbin, Valerie Deneen, Tony Moyer and Eric Loch.  You all executed your committees with style and passion. 
 
Thank you to Ralph Lewis for collecting food for the needy.  Thank you for those who were able to meet my challenge to bring 1 guest this year.  Thank you to the new members that joined this year.  The list goes on and on because all of you have supported our club one way or another.  A BIG THANK YOU TO EVERYONE!  It is such a rewarding experience when you dedicate yourself to this club.  It comes back to you in so many ways!
 
I wish Lexa the best as she enters her Presidential year.  Knock it out of the park Lexa!  You have one heck of a club to Lead!!!
 
This week is our pass the gavel ceremony.  You don’t want to miss it.  And our last Board Meeting for the 2019-2020 Rotary year.  Remember, all members are welcome to attend Board Meetings.
 
Thanks again for allowing me to lead and put my own spice on our club.  I move forward with fond memories and I'm excited to continue my Rotary Journey with all of you.
 
Steve Gould
2019-2020 ERC President