The following was written by Rev. Ron Mowry, our immediate past president, and printed in the program of the 33rd annual Officers Installation Dinner.
Our 2009-2010 Rotary Year
As a club we have completed another successful year. lf success is measured in lives impacted, then this truly has been a very successful year.

From youth, who have gained leadership skills in our Strongsville High School Interact Club to persons of a variety of ages who have been touched through our charitable contributions, we have been making a difference in peoples' lives.

The Chili Open and Fun Run both exceeded expectations in regards to participants and income. As a club we pulled together and put in many hours of diligent work in order to serve the community. Eleven charities directly benefited because of those two events, but the indirect effect enabled over 30 projects to be  supported.

A huge contribution was made to Haiti relief through direct contributions of the club members, the work of our Foundation and the club itself. This is phenomenal as one reflects upon the current economic conditions.

Of course, the work of the club is not only seen in dollar contributions, but also in hands on involvement as we live out the motto of "Service Above Self."

Again and again, weekends were filled as we labored on projects within the community and district. The members of this club truly know how to contribute and our giving went international this year as we were able to start, along with the Twinsburg Club, our water project in Thailand. We anxiously await its conclusion as we see evidence of our work. Also, the Philippines were again a recipient of our involvement through the clothing drive.

A wonderful aspect of this club, however, is our ability to balance work with fun.

There were a number of club activities which enabled us to relax with each other, enjoy one another's company and get to know each other better. Friday morning guests commented again and again on what an enjoyable meeting we have and how no one can go away from it without being enthused and revived. We know how to lift each other up and bring the joy of life into our meetings.

There is nothing boring about us.

All of this occurs because each member uses his or her particular gifts to enhance the work of this Rotary Club of Strongsville. Therefore, I want to use this opportunity to express my deep appreciation for every person in the club. We are who we are because of you. It has been a privilege for me to work with a phenomenal Board of Directors who have assumed their duties, demanded little oversight and been dedicated to seeing that this club reaches the maximum of its potential.

Thank you for being the gracious directors that you are.

People have asked if I am happy to see the year end. In many ways I can say, "no," because being the president of this club is truly a privilege as I work with members so committed to the ideals of Rotary.

Thank you for a great year.