This evening was a celebration of the end of Rotary year 2024 - 2025 and the passing of the Gavel at the start of Rotary year 2025 - 2026. We met at Brew & Brats for a catered dinner provided by Bristol Hills Grill with appetizers by Brews & Brats and desserts from Joseph's Wayside. There were 32 Naples Rotarians and 22 guests enjoying the fellowship.

 

President Jack continued tradition by leading the Pledge followed by the National Anthem. The inspiration was the meaning of TEAM: Together Everyone Achieves More!

 

After the buffet, Jack thanked Karen for her time as President in 2024. Then it was time for saying goodbye to our Exchange Students Anna and Uryu. They both came to the mic to say that they had a wonderful year here and thanks to Naples for hosting them. They will head home later this week. Newly home, Eliza also thanked the Club for our support of her year in Brazil. 

 

2024 - 2025 Awards began with John officiating as Sharon presented Jack with his Paul Harris pin and certificate. John gave three more Paul Harris Fellow awards, who were chosen by current Paul Harris recipients, from nominations by Club members.

 

Joan Luther is a community member who has given generously of her volunteer time for many years. Her passion is for Bristol Valley Theater, who as a board member, stepped up in the last few years to keep the theater alive. She's also active on the board of Naples Historical Society and town boards. 

 

Laurie O'Brien was awarded a Paul Harris Fellow. She has been a Rotarian for 10 years, serving on the board, as treasurer, and chair of literacy and oratorical contest committees. Laurie is always there to serve Rotary and the community.

 

A Paul Harris Fellow was awarded to Betty Zillmann, who passed away in May. Betty was dedicated to Camp Onseyawa, volunteering for 2 weeks each summer. She was known especially for her cooking skills. Her companion, Bruce, received the award in her memory.

 

The Robert Allen Award is named for the first President of Naples Rotary. It is voted on by the members, based on the Rotary motto of "Service Above Self". Club Secretary Cindy was honored to receive it this year.

 

The Doc and Katy Community Service Award was given to Annalise Chapman. She was instrumental in founding and advising the Interact Club at Naples High School. 

 

The Robust Rotarian Award goes to a Rotarian with greater than 20 years of service. Skip was honored this year and was also celebrated for his 40 years of perfect attendance!

 

The Bill Vierhile Humanitarian Award was given to Jon Betrus. He is a NCS teacher and coach who gives his time every year to help with the Naples Rainbow Trout Derby. 

 

In addition, Perfect Attendance certificates were given to 15 Naples Rotarians. This achievement includes being at weekly meetings plus "makeup" participation in our events, committee meetings, board meetings, training, conferences and Rotary Lite. Of our 50 active members, this number of dedicated 100%-ers is evidence of our commitment to service in Naples and the world!

 

Jack thanked everyone for attending, especially our guests and honorees. John assisted in the passing of the Gavel to Jack from one year to the next. Jack rang the bell, looking forward to another great year to come for Naples NY Rotary Club!