40 Years of Service

 
 
Past District  Governor and long time supporter addressed the club at the occasion of our 40th anniversary.   The year the BEL Club was chartered, the theme for the Rotary year was “Believe in Rotary":  Tom talked about the meaning of this theme, both to the many people in our local and international communities that we support as well as for members and the way Rotary has been there to support us.  He talked about the many contributions our club has made and referred to us as “Rotarians on Steroids”.
Our members are our strength. Our charter president Bob Ash shared some thoughts of the past 40 years.  Bob remembered the charter evening, former members and the fellowship and service of 40 years.  Bob was thanked by David Rook Green for his contributions over the past 40 years.  Bob is an active participant in all of our local work and was instrumental in the development and maintenance of Rotary Park, the triathlon and polar plunge and is the “face behind the fishing tournaments”.  David presented Bob with a plaque recognizing his service.
President Tony presented Don Thornton with the Avenues of Service Citation, in recognition of his commitment and dedication to the ideals of Rotary.  Don lives the “4 Way Test” and has been involved in mock interviews, the Adventures in Tourism program and worked with local schools on the Rotary awards.  He is an active participant in all service and fundraising projects.  He has been on the Board of Directors providing input and direction and has supported and promoted the Foundation and club international service.  Don planned and implemented many successful International Dinners to raise money for and awareness of the Foundation. He has been involved with our Youth Exchange program and has acted as counselor for and hosted many students.   Don has led by example with 34 years of perfect attendance and more importantly 34 years of 100% engagement.  Don was presented with the Avenues of Service Citation and his 34 year pin. Congratulations Don.
 
Greetings from District Governor Margaret Walton
“I wanted to send my congratulations on the celebration of your club’s 40th anniversary.  As we look back over 40 years it is amazing to see how Rotary has changed, welcoming women, eradicating polio, building flexible membership options, establishing programs to promote peace while all the time maintaining our core commitment to  service above self and the principals implemented through our four way test.
 
Your club is the perfect example of how we have embraced new practises while respecting our traditions, Small but mighty, the BEL Club focuses on supporting the local community while working to improve communities around the world raising money for their projects through engaging and innovative means. While I am not sure about the polar plunge, given my pending participation, I salute your creativity, all the work you do and the fellowship you enjoy."
 
Recognition from the Township
Deputy Mayor Sherri Senis brought congratulations from Selwyn Township.  She recognized the contributions of the BEL Club to the community, specifically mentioning Rotary Park, stewardship of the BEL Rotary Trail, Adopt a Family and the Purple Pinkie campaign.  She also talked about the Polar Plunge but likely won’t take it!!  Deputy Mayor Sherri presented President Tony with a certificate of recognition.