An evening of celebration was held on Friday, June 14 at Canasawacta Country Club to mark the centenary of Norwich Rotary Club. The event featured speeches, presentations, a formal dinner and music.
The club was officially chartered as a Rotary Club on February 18, 1924 and the 21 members duly elected Burdette “Dash” Hubbard as its first President. A celebratory dinner was held in June of that year to recognize the event, also at Canasawacta Country Club. Since those early days, over 90 different people have served as club President; their service is recorded for posterity on wooden plaques going back to 1924, which were on display at this year’s event.
Master of Ceremonies, Chris Smith, welcomed the guests on behalf of Norwich Rotary Club. As well as current members, several former club members attended, as well as Rotarians from Sherburne, Oneonta, Milton, Ithaca and Owego. Other local organizations represented were Fostering Futures and Aunt Mary’s House, both of which Norwich Rotary Club has worked with recently on major projects, and Chenango County Historical Society. The City of Norwich was represented by Council President Robert Jeffrey.
Club President Ann Smith led the Pledge of Allegiance, after which Pastor Jen Westervelt of CV Free Church gave the invocation. She recognized the club’s commitment to service and community improvement, and also gave thanks for the service of previous Norwich Rotarians over the past century.
Norwich Rotary President Ann Smith and President Elect Catrina Ruling with certificate from RI.
After dinner, Rotary District Governor, Wendy Deis, presented a certificate from Rotary International to mark the 100 year anniversary. She also read a message of congratulations from Binghamton Rotary Club, who were the original sponsors of the Norwich club back in 1924. Oneonta Rotarians Paul and Sarah Patterson presented a gift from their club, which seconded Norwich Rotary Club’s application.
Robert Jeffrey read a proclamation from the City of Norwich, thanking the club for its “outstanding contribution to our community."
Catrina Ruling, who has taken over as President of Norwich Rotary Club since the event, presented a summary of club highlights over the past 100 years, including support to many local, national and international projects. She also read a citation from the New York State Assembly, received from Assemblyman Joe Angelino, noting that the club members’ involvement is characterized by “commitment, enthusiasm, and a standard of excellence in all endeavors."
CNY Rotary President Lizzy Martin and Norwich President Elect Catrina Ruling
Following the dinner and the formal proceedings, music was provided by the Bruce Beadle Trio. Fittingly, Bruce is a former Norwich Rotarian himself and is a past President of the club.
Here’s to the next 100 years!
For further information on Norwich Rotary Club, please contact by email at norwichrotary4890@gmail.com