I was never given a choice about joining Rotary. My Father in Law was President at the time I finished my residency. During my residency he had taken me to lunch with George Witte to help get me interested in practicing in the area. They said to me, "Of course you will join Rotary." My response was, "of course". As a new resident of the community I immediately enjoyed meeting and becoming friends with so many varied and interesting people. It took a while to fully appreciate what being in a service club really meant and how being a small part could make a difference. I enjoy the sense of community, the lunches, and the avenue for giving back. People like Herb Hillman, Karl Hertz, Stan Smith, Tim Carr and Dan Gannon have been huge influences, mostly good.