I am honored to be your 70^th President of Southside Business Men's Club. At our meeting this past Wednesday I said a few things during my induction and I'd like to reiterate them here for those that were unable to attend.

 I thanked Ken Dean for being the model of a chairman I hope to become one day. I can only hope to retain a respectable amount of knowledge I've learned from him thus far. I thanked Galina for her leadership in 2012. It was financially as good a year as we could ever hope to have. She should be proud. I really want to thank my fellow officers from 2012, including Nancy Bennett. Officers are extremely important in our organization, and you will all learn more about them this year. I thanked the Board Members, who along with the officers, simply put, control a large part of our destiny. I thanked the nominating committee for their confidence in my abilities.I thanked the Past Presidents for all they do. For those that don't know, they do not just 'fade away'. They are a big part in the future of our club, and I appreciate all I can learn from them.

 I have been a member almost a dozen years, and still truly have a hard time believing how many friends I have met in this organization. Yes, I have gotten a wonderful amount of business from being a member as well, and I say 'Thank You' to all of you that have been involved in that part of my life. I do appreciate it! Most of all, I have to say I thank YOU, the members of our fine club. Without all of you here, I am nothing. Many people have asked what my 'legacy' would be described as, once I complete my year as Presidency. I'll tell you that I hope for it to be "education of the membership". Anyone of you fairly new members would be surprised, maybe amazed, at the entire gamut of activities, initiatives, and programs we put together throughout the year. This year you will learn more about the team that you are a part of, and more about the pieces of this large puzzle that has grown to become an important part of our community, with a rich, 80-year history.  

Our club is also known to have fun, and this year will be no exception. We will get our necessary business taken care of, and have a great time doing it. To any guests that have joined us, please come back and see us often, and consider joining an organization that can reap rewards for you both in business and personally. To any new members who are just getting started, I would consider getting involved. You will hear committee chairs and vice presidents alike, talking of new opportunities for you to volunteer your time and/or talents, to some very worthwhile causes.

I want to thank my beautiful wife Mary, for all of her support, both in the past 23 years, and for what she is about to go thru in the next 12 months. I give my word to you, that I will show my greatest respect for all of you in this extended family of mine. I will work hard to make you proud of who you elected President for 2013.

My fellow officers and I thank you for your support, I truly wish for all of you to have a prosperous and enjoyable new year!

Thank you,

Jepp Walter

2013 President