As an Air Force veteran, Troy Rhoades understood “Service Above Self” before becoming a Rotarian. Here he shares some thoughts on the value of compassion, lessons learned from his father, and how he prefers to travel.
Name: Troy Rhoades
Years in Rotary: Almost 4
Resident of: Canfield
Hometown: Andover
How long have you lived here? Since 1984 except for about two years
What brought you here, or kept you here? Starting at YSU in 1984 brought me to Youngstown but, after graduation, I moved away for about 18 months, then was transferred back to get married. Since then, while my jobs for the most part have been outside the area. I have made the Valley my home.
Education: Pymatuning Valley High School, 1983; Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Youngstown State University, 1990
Occupation: Regional External Affairs Consultant, First Energy Corp.
Who is in your family circle? My wife and best friend of 30 years, Christine (Fedor).
Do you have any pets? If so, what are their names and what are they like? Lucia Hope is an Australian Labradoodle, black/wine in color, 23" high and about 23 lbs. She and I have the same personality – we are very social and like to go for rides, lie around in the sun and at the end of the day watch some TV.
When you are not working, how do you like to spend your time? I love to read and watch TV/movies, but I am also into golf, biking, and recently kayaking. My passion is traveling with my wife and finding great restaurants and bars!
Why did you join Rotary? At first, it was to assist in my job by networking with people in the community. Soon after, I found out that the “why” is because I am a volunteer at heart and I truly like to serve.
Why do you remain a Rotarian? People -- those I have met through Rotary who are like minded, and those that Rotary helps. If everyone in society would just show some percentage of compassion for others regardless of "classifications" we would all be better people and community members. I see this with Rotary Club of Youngstown members and I want to be part of it!
Which Rotary Project resonates with you and your understanding of our community's needs? They all resonate, it just depends on the eyes you are looking at. There are so many good programs we do that help so many. If I had to choose one, it would be any children's program. I believe that if they see others helping them and they feel that someone could help them, then they could grow up helping others in similar ways.
What does Rotary's motto "Service Above Self" mean to you? As a member of the Air Force for 31 years, that is a core value I have believed in since raising my right hand in 1983. It rings true -- I am the person who runs towards the fire. It means sacrifice, whether in time, material or talent.
What would you be doing on Wednesdays if you didn't attend the weekly luncheon meeting? Probably work related or eating and reading a book.
Which type of Rotary socials do you prefer - black tie affairs or casual attire? I am a formal guy.
A Rotary tradition is to have sing-alongs during meetings. Would you ever lead us in a song? No. That would not be good on anyone's ears.
What do you think of Scott Schulick's Rotary pants, and would you wear a pair? I think they are awesome! I like that stuff but am more of a unique shirt or jacket guy.
What's a story of yours that you don't get to tell often enough? How I miss my Dad. I love to tell stories about growing up and the lessons he tried and sometimes succeeded in teaching me. He was a quiet man who listened before speaking, believed in not quitting anything you start, and to treat everyone with respect, especially your elders. I learned two of the three and assume some of you (and my wife) know which one I did not learn ...