Park Ridge Rotary Club

Governor Ray listed membership as one of his priorities in his directory write up. 1992 was the five hundredth year anniversary of the landing in the new world by Christopher Columbus and Americans and the rest of the world was in the post war era of Desert Storm. There appeared to be a return in attitude at the time towards the love of God and Country, and the basic ideals that had served as the foundation for Rotary International.

The Rotary International President for Governor Ray's year was Raja Saboo and his theme was "Look Beyond Yourself'. The Desert Storm War had left in its wake some financial uncertainties, but Americans and the Rotarians and the people of the world appeared to be looking forward to a period of peace and increased prosperity with an optimistic expectation. In the wings was Governor Nominee, Bill Gates, the epitome of optimism, and Governor Ray surrounded himself, as Governors had done in the past with a staff of competent Rotarians, anxious to make this a year of great expectation and also a year of hands on experiences. Vic Schwarz served as his Secretary, Steve Dalzell as his Chief of staff, and Dave Seeley as his Treasurer.

Governor Ray gave evidence of his hands on approach to the office, when he and his Secretary, Vie, could be seen working on the District Gazebo restoration project at Bergen Pines.

Other activities of the year included a special designation of August as Membership and Extension month, the annual New Jersey Vocational Assembly at New Brunswick, a Youth Exchange Dinner and Dance at Paterson, a Gift of Life Valentines Day Dinner, and the annual Walter Head golf outing held at the Haworth Country Club.

The President's Ball was held at the Aspen Hotel in Parsippany, and the District Conference on a cruise on the SS Seabreeze in the Caribbean The International Convention was at Orlando, Florida where a family orientated fun filled Convention was held, combing the Rotary work sessions with enjoyable free time provided to enjoy the sights at Disneyland.

The staff meetings were lively events held at the Inwood Manor in Teaneck under the leadership of Chief Rep Steve Dalzell. Governor Ray added a few innovations during his year with an, "Ecology and Environmental Committee" and a Projects Steering Committee. Youth programs included active RYLA, Rotoract, Interact, and Youth Exchange programs.

Emphasis was also placed on the Rotary Foundation and the Walter Head Foundation. Governor Ray impressed everyone with his down to earth straight forwardness and it was reflected in a year of the rededication to the high principles of Rotary.

Questions or looking for more information please contact district7490rotary@gmail.com

Like us on Facebook