A split program between our Gus Macker kick-off and Quincy Park District Executive Director Dan Gibble.  Always a pleasure to have King of Gus Macker Scott McNeal with us.  Scott expressed his sincere appreciation for what we do and how we do and then gave us the low-down on changes for this year.  After Scott, we welcomed Dan to the podium.  Dan did a great job giving us a look at the history of the Quincy Park District and then told us about their comprehensive planning program which will direct their activities in the future.  As Dan noted, we should be very proud of our park system.  Ours is as good as anywhere in the state, if not country.  Lots of good stuff between Scott and Dan!

Congratulations Claire Sculley! 

Claire, a senior at Quincy High School, was named recipient of our prestigious Bud Willer Scholarship Award (which is synonymous with the National Exchange Club's "Accepting the Challenge" or "ACE" award).  Our award is named after deceased Exchangite Bud Willer and recognizes high school students who have overcome great physical, emotional, or social obstacles to earn their high school diploma.  Claire has been in a wheelchair all of her life after suffering a stroke as an infant.  Not allowing that to stop her, she will graduate from QHS this spring and attend Columbia University in Chicago this fall.  The $1,000 scholarship she picks up with the award will certainly help in her pursuit of higher education.  Just like our Youth of the Year, Claire will represent our club at the District level and perhaps National level.  At National, she would be eligible for a $10,000 scholarship.  John Johannes and Mike Llewellyn doing the introductions.  Claire's parents Paul and Sue Scully joining us.  Congratulations and good luck, Claire!