‘Twas the last week of December, and all through Rotary,
Salem Rotarians were resting after a great year of service, you see.
Generously given was time, talent, and treasure that made things matter,
Let’s look back and see what caused all that clatter.
Tree of Joy gifts to deserving children and Oregon Hospital patients given with care,
Kettles filled for Salvation Army at our meeting and on the Kohl’s bridge there.
Hands-on projects performed, vocational tours conducted,
Dictionaries labeled and distributed, new members inducted.
With Rotarians stepping forward, and doing so lively and quick,
We can see so easily, good works come together – people do the trick!
Water projects in Haiti, Cyprus Friendship Program students supported,
Peace Poles planted, Inbound Exchange Students hosted, and good news through Bellringers exhorted.
And very exciting, it was announced, to commemorate 100 years of Rotary in Salem:
The Gerry Frank Rotary Amphitheater! It will be Riverfront Park’s crowning gem!
Ian Riseley started as the new RI Pres, “Making A Difference” as our theme,
Members ’round the world showing that we do so and with pride we all beam.
And Rotary Club of Salem’s Renee Campbell as District 5100 DG,
Leading the way, our District Governor does so graciously, selflessly.
So, glad tidings and good cheer of the season as 2017 draws to a close,
My best wishes to you all in 2018 to conclude this holiday prose.
Cheers . . . And I’ll see you at Rotary!