June 30th is the end of the Bainbridge Rotary year. Prior to handing over the gavel, out-going President, Ken Bailey, recognized the work of his board and the club.

During Bailey's term as President, the Bainbridge Rotary Club has been very active locally, nationally and internationally. Those activities included taking the 4-Way Test to every 4th grade in the county, providing 2 scholarships to graduating high school students and 1 scholarship for Bainbridge College. The club also sponsored the Laws of Life, Art Camp, Camp Joy, BackPack Program, Bainbridge High School Interact Club, Bainbridge College RotarAct Club and Kids Against Hunger. Internationally the Rotary Club provided support to the Puerto Vallarta Pasitos de Luz and the Nairobi, Kenya 'You Can Change The World One Child At A Time' and Polio Plus.

In-coming President Mike Harrell congratulated Bailey for his service during the past year and the leadership that he brought with him. Harrell stated that Bailey had many obstacles to overcome and still increased the attendance. Harrell also presented Bailey with a plaque which he read, "For outstanding leadership and service above self".

Ken Bailey and Mike Harrell

Harrell stated that he will be working with a great group of officers and committees. "Our goal for this year is simple," Harrell said. "We want to create a stronger club value for the members of the Bainbridge Rotary Club. We want it to mean more to you to be a Rotarian in Bainbridge Georgia. The pursuit of excellence is going to be our only option."

One of the goals that the new president has set is an increase in meeting attendance. Harrell also stated that the club would be awarding approximately 28 Paul Harris Fellows during the year. "Our intention is to make our club more visible in our community." Harrell said.

Bainbridge Rotary Officers for the 2009-10 year are: Mike Harrell, President; Emily Yent, President-Elect; Ken Bailey, Vice President; Catherine VanStone, Secretary and Treasurer Bill Burke. The 2009-10 Board of Directors are: Lee Harris, Matt Palmer, Cile Warr, Don Robinson and Marlene Free.