Monday evening, 28 June 2021, was the 63rd Installation of officers for the Rotary Club of Westerly. President Rona banged the gavel to bring attendees to order with the end of her term and the beginning for Incoming President Ted. Assistant District Governor Bob Cruz joined us and presented several District Awards to the Club, among them the Public Image Award that resulted from public Club promotions, a vibrant, current website and newsletter. More on these next week. Incoming President Ted presented Special Recognition Awards and a gift basket to our great Senior Rotarians Douglas Rayner, Joseph Nigrelli and Vincent Gaccione for all their years of service to the Club. They also were awarded District Longevity Awards for being Rotarians over 50 years.
Past President and evening's Host Cal Lord provided a slide show presentation "A Look Back at 2020". He introduced Andrew and Chant Clapham and Frank Thacker and they were inducted as our newest members.
ADG Bob Cruz also inducted the incoming Board - President-Elect Steve Cofone, Vice President Derin Temil, Secretary Julie Lord, Treasurer Rosemarie Russo and Director-at-large Suzanne Lane.
David Avedesian spoke about his younger brother Ted prior to his induction pledge lead by Rotarian and Past President John Hall. David and Mary Beth drove down on Sunday from Maryland to attend this event. Other guests included sister Anahid and husband John, friends Eric, Lacy and John.
Past Presidents and Paul Harris recipients were recognized.
It was a pleasure to see Jean Rayner, Donna Celico and Elaine Temel. Our chef for the evening was Amanda Nall of Bogue's Alley and everyone declared that the buffet dinner was a hit!! Special thanks were given to Grey Sail Brewing and The Wine Store for providing beverages for the evening's enjoyment.
We offered a cheerful thank you to outgoing President Rona with a big blue basket of goodies. Incoming President Ted then spoke about his plan for the next year which will include a continuation of some of the special projects begun by President Rona during the Covid pandemic. We will continue with our Food collection to assist the Pawcatuck Neighborhood Center, Jonnycake Center of Westerly and RICAN. Student of the Month and Reforest the Tropics programs will continue also. In the Spring of 2022 there will be a Charitable/Scholarship Dinner. And the evening adjourned with Ted banging the gavel.
A very special evening!!!
