President Bobby’s Demotion: Tacos, Teasing, and the Blazer Heard ‘Round the Club
It would’ve been a surprise had President Bobby’s send-off been anything but a party. Hosted at the McKinley Village Clubhouse, Rotarians and friends gathered after hours (a.k.a. Rotarian Happy Hour, instead of lunch hour) to properly “demote” our fearless, fashion-confused leader. There were tacos, beer, wine, fellowship, and just a dash of lighthearted public shaming — the Rotary way!
PP Todd Koolakian served as emcee, kicking things off with some thank-yous: greeters President Bobby and Lev Kaganovich; photographer Joe Quilici, and Pulse reporter Christie Holderegger. David Brandenburger graciously hosted the wine reception.
Then things took a turn…
PP Todd opened the official roast, spotlighting President Bobby’s term with affection and just enough snark. The crowd was treated to commentary on Bobby’s unique fashion sense, his ever-vanishing hairline, and the undeniable fact that he’s been sneakily demoting himself since March. Todd summed it up best: “President Bobby is proof that you can run Rotary, lead a company, coach Little League, and still dress like you’re headed to a backyard BBQ…in 2004.”
President-Elect Kerry Wood sent a heartfelt video message all the way from the Rotary International Conference in Calgary. She thanked Bobby for his leadership and promised to carry the torch, ideally while wearing more professional attire.
Then came Justino Santana, Bobby’s direct report, loyal Rotarian, and self-proclaimed style interventionist. He proudly admitted to helping pick out the famous blazer. Little did he know it would be the only blazer Bobby would wear. Ever. To everything.
David closed out the roasting session with more of a highlight reel than a roast, giving props to Bobby’s impressive push for new membership (35 new members was a big goal!) and a jump in service projects. Basically, Bobby was crushing goals while dressing like he was still waiting for his Uber to a Kings game.
In true Rotary fashion, President Bobby was awarded a plaque and some gift cards to his favorite tap room and sports store. A gift card to Men’s Wearhouse was seen as wasteful.
And then, plot twist: President Bobby turned the tables. He roasted PP Todd, David Brandenburger, Justino, and PP Kevin Smith-Fagan with the finesse of someone who’s been saving these burns for a year. But the biggest surprise? A “roast” of LaToya … which turned out to be a heartfelt, emotional toast to the quiet powerhouse who keeps Rotary running smoothly behind the scenes. Everyone joined the round of applause. So well deserved.
President Bobby wrapped up the evening by thanking his family, the board, and all the Rotarians who made this year a success.
We hit major milestones this year all while laughing, serving, and occasionally wondering if President Bobby would be wearing a ball cap or THE blazer or both?
Cheers to you, President Bobby — you’ve led with heart, humor, and just enough confusion to keep us entertained.
Photos courtesy of Joe Quilici