A public service announcement
Jim DeBoom had a bit of a dilemma.
Back in the ’80s, he coordinated a “Hall of Fame” for service club members with the YMCA. It was a way of bringing together members of organizations like Rotary, Kiwanis, Lions, Exchange, Soroptimists, Elks, and American Legion, among others. They all do their own thing throughout the year to help area charities. But Jim thought it would be a good idea if they networked a little more and could occasionally help each other. Strength in numbers.
So this year he brought it back and the Daily Pilot sponsored it. That made sense. It’s the “Community & Clubs Hall of Fame,” after all.
But then in this inaugural year the judges decided to induct Jim into the Hall of Fame. Since he was going to be doing the honors of introducing all the winners, who would introduce him? He couldn’t do it himself. So he asked me. No problem.
The ceremony at American Legion Hall Post 291 in Newport Beach Friday drew about 100. Most were involved in service clubs. At one point as we stood on the stage introducing the winners I looked out on all those volunteers and felt so inspired. Our community, particularly our charities, owe so much to them. And yet they are so selfless several of them thanked me after the program for publicizing what they do. How humbling. Sometimes I think I’m not doing nearly enough to give back so it’s nice to hear the appreciation, but instead of resting on the laurels, it inspires me to do more.
Also, I should say I appreciate my association with my elders like Jim. I’ve long felt so grateful for their wisdom. That sort of respect seems to be in really short supply these days. I see too many people who think they won’t benefit from the experience of their peers, and that’s too bad. They’re just going to make avoidable mistakes.
Anyway, just wanted to thank Jim again for his many years of service to the community and his work with the Daily Pilot. It’s greatly appreciated. Here’s to many more years to come.
(Pictured above, left to right: Charles Markel, standing in for Fran Ursini, Dick Freeman, Jim DeBoom, Tim Shields, Carol Van Holt, Mike Scheafer, Mary Cockley, standing in for Christina Holliday).
Paul – this was beautiful.
“Sometimes I think I’m not doing nearly enough to give back so it’s nice to hear the appreciation, but instead of resting on the laurels, it inspires me to do more.”
I think that by showing up at the ceremony, as a respected member of the community, you are doing more than your part to give back. I’m sure that Jim and everyone else at the event agrees.
As for “resting on laurels,” I can’t help but hope that this was a deliberate nod to me, your biggest fan. I hope you know that the support you show for those in the community will be returned to you in spades.
Laurel
A very nice tribute to each of the “Magnificent Seven” – much-deserved. Thanks to the Daily Pilot for sponsoring this event. Special thanks to Jim DeBoom for giving birth to this concept and for his tireless volunteerism. By the way, I KNOW that “resting on laurels” comment was NOT directed at ME!