Rotary in Motion: a new year in Rotary

John-Mark Turner (right) marks the end of his term by turning over the gavel to new President Bob Ramay.

July marked the beginning of a new year for Rotarians around the world as well as here in Union County. For Dr. John-Mark Turner the month marked the end of his term as club president and the beginning of a presidency for Bob Ramay. Union County Rotarians rang in the new year with a special dinner meeting at North Georgia Technical College for club members and family.

Before handing over the club, John-Mark Turner honored board and committee members with plaques recognizing their service to the club during the year. He also thanked all the club members for their contributions throughout the year, which were also acknowledged at the District Conference this past April when the Union County Rotary Club was recognized as the runner-up for Club of the Year and won a Community Service Project award. Union County Rotarian Wendy Adwell was recognized by John-Mark Turner as the club's Rotarian of the Year for her dedication and willingness to serve her club and community.

After thanking everyone, John-Mark Turner then conducted the traditional passing of the gavel and became the past-president. Bob Ramay gladly accepted his new position in the club as the president and addressed the members, telling them his goals for the upcoming year. One of the

major goals he discussed was the war on meth in Union County.

Since taking office in July, Bob Ramay has not backed down on the meth epidemic. Union County Rotarians have had several speakers in the last two months address this growing problem and have decided

to team up with other clubs and organizations in the area to combat it. Ramay realizes it will not be an easy battle and it will not be won during his year as president. However, he and all other club members are in this for the long haul and are prepared to fight for the good of the community.