On behalf of the Rotary Club of Kirkland, I would like to thank all of those who made our fund raiser, the 2010 Duck Dash, a success. In the uncertain times we live in, it was wonderful to receive a high level of support from local businesses, both in terms of corporate sponsorships and coupons attached to the tickets. Also, we were fortunate to have the Lake Washington High School Drill Team and Kirkland Rotary Downtown Club assist us with ticket sales. Both groups did very well, and we are appreciative.

Of course the race would not have been a success if it weren’t for all of the support we had from Kirkland residents and business people. The money we raised selling tickets will allow the Rotary Club of Kirkland to continue to invest money into local programs and international programs. Thank you to all who “adopted” a duck for the race.

Now on to the fun part! This year, we had to improvise our own boom to contain the ducks prior to, and during the race, as our industrial-grade boom is serving duty for the Gulf oil spill. The boom was working until the storm began to blow across the lake and kick up large waves. As the ducks (that we rent) began to wash up onto the shore at Marina Park it was great to see the onlookers help us tremendously by moving the ducks off of the shore. After the race, many parents and children helped us return the ducks to their crates so they could be shipped off to their next venue. Very quickly we went from concern as ducks washed ashore, to relief and inspiration by what a showing of Kirkland ‘s community spirit this Duck Dash had become!

A sincere thank you to all who made this a special Fourth of July.

Scott Rethke, Kirkland Rotary