Recognition reaps rewards

I've seen a distressing trend in recent bulletins. We're just finishing contest season and bulletins are full of "we gottas" and "we shouldas" and "we're getting serious" - but I didn't read a single "thanks for giving extra time and effort to this competition." As a cheerleader in high school, I rarely yelled about bad plays or poor passes - instead we cheered louder and longer. Isn't that what "encouragement" is about?

I'd rather read some good news about chapter achievements, attaboys for accomplishments, and thank yous. Sure, I realize redirecting and improvement is needed, but there should be some praise involved. Besides, many chapters have become very creative with rewards. For most, the installation banquet is the #1 place for presenting these awards; but, let's take a lesson from those celebrating mid-year "praises" such as: Rookie of the Quarter, Quality Coffee Cooker, Best Riser Team of the Quarter, Best Quarter Teachers, Super Section Singer, Best Baritone Blunder, Best Attendance Thus Far, Super Spouse Supporter, Biggest Attendance Night, Most Guest Bringer, Voice Part Fastest Off the Music, Longest Payment Period for Dues - the list is endless.

Heck, I still cherish the Worst Attendance of the Decade Award given by one chapter while I was a dual member in another part of the country! Seems they tracked my attending three meetings over that time period. I had a special presentation, picture taking ceremony, the works!

So, let's have some fun in remembering the efforts and energies that our members make. There is a lot of competition for time - families, children's sports events (grandchildren need shuttling), church choirs, television, other hobbies. And our guys will go with what-feels-good every time.

Make the feel-good moment at your next chapter meeting and next bulletin edition. Thank you for B#.