Volunteer of the Month - January 2009

Bob Demair

Our Volunteer of the Month is Bob DeMair-who was also recognized in September as Volunteer of the Month for having chaired the hugely successful 2008 Ramapo Rally. But chairing the Rally was just the latest in a long list of positions that Bob has filled for BTCNJ, always with skill, tact, foresight, excellent judgment, caring, and inspiration. In fact, the 2008 Rally was the second one that Bob has chaired, both times with his usual attention to detail and inspired leadership. And in the years when he did not chair the Rally, Bob always agreed to take on at least one of the event's major responsibilities.

Bob has served in numerous Board positions, starting with three years as Rides Captain (1988, 1989, 1990), then moving up to Vice President (2001, 2002), and finally as President (2003, 2004). He has also served on the Nominating Committee, and throughout the years has often taken on various tasks and responsibilities which he has executed with his habitual excellence. His dedication and enthusiasm in all of these positions was evident to others, and it helped him recruit equally dedicated volunteers for other positions, including many on the Board.

Bob is one of those rare leaders who always leads by doing. Yes, he was Rides Captain, but he also leads many club rides-although the undersigned have never been able to join them, being unable to ride at Bob's usual "A" pace. His leadership of the Rally has always been characterized by a willingness to pitch-in for whatever was needed. He scouted and secured excellent rest stops, explored routes, made signs, and was always present when he asked others to show up for tasks. He has displayed this same willingness in all his club leadership positions.

BIt's hard to believe that there was time when Bob was uncomfortable addressing the BTCNJ membership, as now we hear and deeply respect a man who speaks with authority, passion, knowledge, and a great sense of humor.

We are glad to recognize Bob as Volunteer of the Year not just for his leadership in 2008, but for more than ten years of the same. We are all truly and forever grateful.

~Ken Stahl, President
~Steve Greenberg, Volunteer Development