April 22, 2004

Outgoing Almaden Valley Rotary Club President Marianne McCarthy
deals with husband's death with dignity and help of friends

Jeff Rosen named AVRC president-elect

By Justin Petersen
Staff Writer

On July 2, Marianne McCarthy, an 11-year veteran of Rotarian services, will step down from her presidential post at the Almaden Valley Rotary Club and assume a position as Foundation head. But to the 1996 Rotarian of the Year and those who know her best, McCarthy's courageous term as president of the club will not soon be forgotten.

Last July, after officially entering the office, McCarthy and her husband, Jack, spent two weeks at the annual Rotary International Conference, where presidents from the various chapters nationwide gathered to discuss the direction and activities of the collective group. Upon returning, Jack was diagnosed with an aggressive and terminal form of cancer.

“It was so unexpected,” said McCarthy, of her husband's illness and, ultimately, untimely death. “There are times when you just break down for no reason at all. I received so much support throughout my tenure. It really epitomized what the Rotary Club is all about: friendship.”

Throughout Jack's fight, Marianne felt fortunate to remain by his side. Past presidents and chief members of the club, including president-elect Rosen, rallied around, supporting their friend through the toughest of times.

“The support was overwhelming and, really, quite fabulous,” said McCarthy. “An event would approach and somebody would say, ‘I'll do it.' Nobody was ever too busy to help out.”

Despite the emotional upheaval, McCarthy returned to her presidency after funeral proceedings and a much-needed grieving period. By November, the McCarthy era was in full swing and her energy was rededicated to service above self, the historic Rotary International credo.

For years, McCarthy has relished the annual philanthropic activities spearheaded by the Almaden Valley Rotary Club including Via Monte Neighborhood projects for Christmas and Thanksgiving, senior citizen Christmas luncheons, The Almaden Valley Rotary Club's high school all-star football game, and kids' fishing days at the Campbell Percolation Ponds. As a testament to McCarthy's grit and courage, none of these events suffered in 2003-2004.

“I love hearing the laughter,” said McCarthy, referring, in particular to a recent senior luncheon. “You don't ask for thank you's at these events but you get so many. People are so happy. They look at you in ways that warm the heart.”

When the presidency changes hands in July, Rotarians can look forward to another year of unsolicited philanthropy in the immediate community and countywide led by Rotarian Jeff Rosen.

“Jeff knows what he wants,” said McCarthy of Rosen. “He's firm in his convictions and he'll fight to get what he knows is best.”

One goal already under construction is the extension of the AVRC's Interact Clubs at local high schools such as Leland, Pioneer, and Oak Grove. The program provides scholarship money, student sponsorships, and a speech tournament.

In addition, Rosen intends to build something for the benefit of the community.

“I want to make sure the Almaden Valley Rotary Club is still going strong 50 years from now,” said Rosen. “Perhaps we'll do a new library or a community center.”

With the end of spring and beginning of summer left to solidify plans, Rosen has plenty of time to finalize his decisions. He can certainly depend on a helping hand from Marrianne McCarthy and his friends at the Almaden Valley Rotary Club.