Farewell to President Ricca Charlon and ‘Welcome’ to our new President Jill Bradford.
In her parting address, Ricca reviewed all the club’s accomplishments for the past year and presented her Board of Directors with a Garden Flag with the logo of the Rotary Club of China Lake.
This year’s event included the presentation of the second ever LCdr L.J. “Jack” Goddard Lifetime Achievement Award.
LCdr. Goddard was the Charter President for our Club (1951-1952), whose service to the Country and Rotary across the decades set an example of quiet, constant, and excellent commitment. It is given to a member of long standing who has not received the honor of Rotarian of the Year, but has demonstrated excellent service to the club over their years and decades of membership. The first such award was presented to Past President Al Alvarado.
The Rotarian of the Year committee was pleased, and honored to present the LCdr. L.J. “Jack” Goddard Lifetime Achievement Award to Membership Director Dan Kus.
This year’s Rotarian of the Year was announced at the dinner. More on that later!
Jill Bradford then took the reins and, along with her 2026-2027 Board of Directors, took the Oath of Office. There were two new faces on the Board: Don Beene as the Youth Services Director and Cyndy Noel as Sergeant-at-Arms. Out-going District Assistant Governor Mary Lundstrom administered the oath of office and afterwards the attendees were treated to a congratulatory video for Mary on her service to District 5240 from District Governor Mike Dutra.
Dinner was catered by Rob’s O.G. BBQ and featured delicious and tender Brisket, chicken, and the traditional BBQ side dishes. There was plenty to go around and many a to-go box was taken home. Desert was a beautiful cake, by Mama Mia's Cakes and Treats, in honor of our 75th Anniversary of Doing Good in the World.
Photos courtesy of David Saint-Amand and Jill Bradford.