June 30, 1999 was indeed a milestone for the Rotary Club of Makati Ayala. It was the culmination of a year of special events, outreach programs, and fundraisers --- it was the last day of now PP Miguel Puyat's award-filled era and the inception of now President Dennis Valdes's much awaited term; it was the day where the victorious golfers of the year-long series of RCMA's professional golf tour were awarded; and most especially, it was the day where members, spouses and friends of RCMA were recognized for selflessly sharing their time, efforts, and, yes, sometimes money, to ensure each and every event's success.

PP Miguel imparted very inspiring and noble words in his farewell speech. PP Miguel related how his term as RCMA president helped him realize the true meaning of social consciousness, how it expanded and deepened his relationships within the club and the district, and how the club inspired him to achieve the less-noble cause of improving his golf handicap (affording him the distinction of being RCMA's "golfer of the year"!). He likewise reinforced his faith in President Dennis-his commitment, sincerity, and zeal in furthering the cause of RCMA, and passionately called on the same support which he so appreciated for his successor.

President Dennis, on the other hand, professed his commitment to RCMA and its projects for the year. Not in his usual sarcastic and humorous disposition, President Dennis solemnly thanked PP Miguel for his invaluable leadership in the past year and enjoined all the RCMA members, spouses, and friends for their continued support. Certainly, we can expect nothing less than the best for RCMA 1999-2000.

Some of the more notable awards given that night were "Rotarian and Rotary-Ann of the Year", which for the first time were awarded to a couple, Alvin and Becky Co, for Alvin's unparalleled leadership (or was it dictatorship?) and Becky's altruistic support for most of the club's events. Chuck Montecillo likewise garnered the "Baby Rotarian of the Year" for his efforts and unusual zeal for a new member.

For all the honorees, we salute you --- PP Miguel, for a job well done (a sigh of relief from Marides as the chants for "charter change" subsided); the individual leg and overall champions in golf (may you share the prestige to the less fortunate duffers of the club next year); the awarded spouses and friends of RCMA (may you forever be committed and supportive of everyone's dream of improving our golf handicaps); and President Dennis, for your dreams and vision for RCMA.