Last Wednesday (Jan. 31st) marked my last visit with the Pikeville Rotary Club before I depart for Oz. What a fantastic group of folks! There's well over 50 Pikeville Rotarians, and many of them have really helped me out a lot over the years. I would like to take advantage of this opportunity and thank a few of them...

*Past President Ron Damron (Dean of Students and Vice President for Student Services at Pikeville College) was my workstudy supervisor when I was an undergraduate at PC. He was one of those folks who showed me that he believed in me when I was at my lowest. He's been a great sponsor counselor and has helped a lot with my pre-departure business.

*Past President Brenda Maynard has been very helpful as well. I had the opportunity to get to know her about 7 years ago when I worked for Ron, as her office was situated in his Student Services suite of offices. She was always so helpful directing me toward part-time jobs as an undergraduate; she has been equally helpful in connecting me with other Rotarians. If she doesn't know the answer to something, you can bet she knows the person who does know the answer!

*Darrell Maynard is one of those folks that just can't help but admire. Not only has he built SouthEast Telephone from the ground up, but he has ensured that his company is run using the principles of Rotary as a foundation. I've not worked at a place where I felt more comfortable, nor have I worked for someone of such achievement who is so down-to-earth and approachable!

*Past President Frank Dawahare has been a great supervisor. He is an overall nice guy who strives to ensure that everyone is diplomatically represented and included. What's more, he has a sense of humor that really lightens departmental meetings!

*PDG Carrie Cinnamond has been such a tremendous help in the short time I've known her. She has been my teacher of Rotary traditions and has gotten me to meetings to better familiarize myself with Pikeville Rotary. She's a great advocate and such an insightful, interesting individual!

I've always enjoyed visiting the club during their Wednesday meetings and assisting with their events. They are always so nice and hospitable! What's more, they're genuine folks who have such a positive impact on the region. They do a lot to make Pikeville such a great town!

If any of the Pikeville Rotarians are reading this: THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR ALL YOU DO. :)