The following email was sent to Jodi Sundaram, District Governor, regarding the dinner won by Martial Thevenot at the Rotary Foundation Auction.
"From the original idea of offering a dinner-with-the–Rotary International President Nominee auction item to the actual experience at 1587 Prime in Kansas City, this was Rotary creativity at its very best. Vision plus execution equals magic. Well done.
Larry and Jill were the most gracious and generous hosts and honorees imaginable. Guylaine and I were truly humbled to spend time with what felt like genuine Rotary royalty. Not because of titles or immense generosity, but because of their warmth, humility, wisdom, and stories. And getting to know Jill more deeply was a true gift. She is clearly the remarkable woman behind a great man. Rotary does not just travel solo. It travels as a team. IMHO our membership (budget?) needs to know, appreciate and honor this (more)!
Jerry and Cassy brought their always most delightfully uplifting presence, which elevated the evening even further. The conversations, anecdotes, laughter, and meaningful exchanges flowed so naturally that time seemed to politely excuse itself and leave us alone. We went almost an hour over our two hour designated limit!!!
The food was superb. Some dishes were, quite frankly, egregiously over-portioned in the most joyful and unapologetic way. Zero complaints. Only gratitude. And our server, Alex, was an absolute joy. He radiated the very spirit 1587 intends to deliver through its food, ambiance, story, and service. If hospitality were a Rotary classification, Alex nailed it.
This experience was truly priceless, and we were both honored and humbled to have been able to acquire such an extraordinary “prize.” It is absolutely worthy of being offered again so others can experience what we did. Fair warning though. Expectations could now be dangerously high. The bar was set high.
Thank you, Jody, for the vision, care, and heart you put into making this happen. And thank you as well to Larry and Jill, and to Jerry and Cassy, for turning a wonderful idea into a once-in-a-lifetime moment that somehow managed to be both elegant and joy-filled at the same time.
With deep gratitude and a very full heart (and belly!!)"