The Pulse for the Week of June 30, 2026 | Rotary Club of Sacramento

Demotion of President Kerry Wood

At this final meeting of her term, President Kerry Wood convened the group one last time as club president.

Thought For the Day

PP Linda Geery’s Thought for the Day keyed on Kerry’s musical nature. “Rotary is like an orchestra and President Kerry its conductor: each member plays a different part, but when united by a common purpose and a commitment to Service Above Self, those individual contributions become something greater than any one person could accomplish alone.”

The demotion proceedings were emceed by PP Diane Woodruff, who attempted to begin with a roast, but with very little “dirt” to uncover, her thoughts quickly pivoted Kerry’s many accomplishments in Rotary and professionally.

The Roast

Because a traditional roast proved difficult, John Wood—no real relation to Kerry—offered an imaginative alternative: a tall tale from a criminal underworld led by Kerry “The Hammer” Wood. His fictional syndicate featured Shirlee “Twinkle Toes” Tully, mob boss PE Paul Keefer, Dee “Will Break Your” Hartzog, and PP Walter “Let’s Take It All” Dahl. In the end, President Kerry beat the rap, became a judge, and PE Paul was left making license plates in the Sacramento County Jail. As always, John’s storytelling and creativity left us amazed.

Throughout the luncheon, the Rotary Roadies entertained the crowd, serenading Kerry with Forget You and leading everyone in a spirited rendition of Friends in Low Places.

The club board of directors presented Kerry with a stunning crystal etched gavel, flowers and other tokens of appreciation. The tributes highlighted her leadership, dedication, and energy for new initiatives.

In her remarks, Kerry shared heartfelt gratitude for the many Rotarians who lifted the club to becoming the year’s Bell recipient as outstanding club for District 5180. Kerry reflected warmly on what she will miss most about serving as president: looking out at the many smiling faces in the room, welcoming new members, and leading such an outstanding group. At the same time, she drew laughter for what she will not miss—not having time to eat lunch in the meetings, constantly checking the clock and agenda, and the sleepless nights preceding a club luncheon.

Making Beautiful Music!

Contributions flowed in tribute to the departing president, including gifts to President Kerry’s Eddie Mulligan or to their own by Jeff Stone, Shirlee Tully, Dennis Smith, and Jim Henderson. PP Diane Mizell and PP Fred Teichert made contributions in honor of Kerry’s term and also in memory of the late Dick Osen. Dick’s son Rick Osen thanked the club for the calls, text messages, emails, and presence at his father’s memorial the previous Friday.

Three rotary members posing for a photograph — President Kerry’s demotion was a fitting celebration of a year marked by energy, creativity, humor, and service.

As usual, President Kerry made sure to thank the day’s greeters: Hillary Schmeel, Bob McLean, Danielle McGarrity, and Glynis Butler-Stone. She also recognized Pulse reporter Christie Holderegger and meeting photographer John Swentowsky. PEN Jamie Furlong served as Sergeant-at-Arms.

Our next club meeting will be July 14 as we install Dr. Paul Keefer as the new president!