Daryl Manning resigns after two years
Alex Kennett was recently elected president of Morgan Hill Independence Day Celebrations, Inc. Kennett replaces Daryl Manning, who resigned Sept. 27.
Kennett, a member of the organization since 1991, was elected Monday, Oct. 3 at the regular board meeting.
Elise Brentnall-Alexander was re-elected as one of two vice presidents. Steve Tate will serve as interim vice president until the IDI Council elects a second vice president. The organization has two vice presidents – one responsible for events, and another for support of the events.
Other 2005-06 board officers include Marie Haluza, who was re-elected treasurer; Brigitte Heiser, re-elected secretary, and Bruce Tichinin, re-elected to the past president post.
“I’m proud to serve with this group of individuals. The IDI Board, Council and committee members look forward to bring excitement and relevance to the landmark celebration of Morgan Hill’s centennial and working with the Centennial Committee to showcase our local history during next year’s Fourth of July festivities,” said Kennett.
Manning had been at the helm of the volunteer-run nonprofit organization for the past two years, serving three years as marketing and publicity chair prior to being elected president of the organization. She cited the need to concentrate on building her own communications business as the reason for her resignation. Manning owns Black Dog Communications, an event management and public relations firm.
“I’ve been with the organization for five years, it’s solid and on track right now,” said Manning. “It’s an absolutely fabulous team and a first class Board of Directors. I am absolutely going to miss the organization and people, but I am really looking forward to partying at the street dance and watching the parade.”
Manning thanked everyone on the board and organization for the teamwork and tireless efforts of all volunteers of the organization.
“It’s heartwarming to see the community come together,” Manning said.
Kennett said he would like to continue keeping things on track, strengthen the organization and see more involvement in decision-making.
“I’d like to see a redirection on how the organization works, … from unilateral decision-making to more consensual-based decision-making, with more agreement of the board as a whole rather than just a few people,” Kennett said.
He said the organization looks forward to next year’s event and mentioned the possibilities of a downtown dance right after the parade, in addition to the annual street dance the night before, and perhaps, even a car show.
Next year will mark the 112th consecutive year the city of Morgan Hill will celebrate the Fourth of July. In 2003, the parade was officially recognized as the best and biggest parade in northern California. The event draws over 75,000 people from all over northern California.
IDI is an all-volunteer nonprofit organization run entirely by community volunteers. The organization is financially supported by business sponsorships, private individual contributions and the City of Morgan Hill. For more information, check IDI’s Web site at www.mhidi.com.
