A.M. Rotary celebrates 20 years
PENN TWP — “Service Above Self” was the theme as Butler A.M. Rotary Club celebrated its 20th anniversary Tuesday at Conley Resort.
Honored were Candy Hartley, Richard Musko, and Ronald Jones, founders of the group who have remained members for the 20 years.
Together with others they decided to begin their own Rotary Club and within three years they had raised $500,000 to finance, plan, and build the inclusive Alameda Purple Playground, still a favorite among children all over the Butler area.
Also honored was Paul Wharton, a longtime Rotarian, who is always the first volunteer to appear for spring, summer, and fall service projects. He was at the playground project daily and continues to work in planting and removing the flowers at the intersection of New Castle Road and Hansen Avenue.
Dena Martinez and Peggy Weckerly were chosen by membership to be Rotarians of the Year. Both referred to the teamwork within the group to get things done and the sense of being part of a family.
Chris Panian, outgoing president, thanked everyone for their efforts during his term.
Some of his favorite projects included food and monetary donations for the Weekend Backpack Program, Salvation Army bell-ringing, and collecting socks for seniors.
New officers who were installed are: Lisa Campbell, president; Joyce Cully, president-elect; Kenny Bonus, vice president; Michele Knox, secretary; Peggy Weckerly, treasurer, and Daniel Hazeldine, sergeant-at-arms major.
Members of the board of directors are Cathy Bronder, Clint Champagne, Steven Green, Dena Martinez, Chris Panian and Jim Thompson.
Campbell emphasized Rotary International’s theme of “Rotary: Making a Difference” and called upon each member to make a difference during the coming year.
She also said early planning has begun for the third annual Carved in Ice festival in downtown Butler, scheduled Feb. 10.
The club meets for breakfast each Tuesday from 7 to 8 a.m. at the Butler YMCA, 339 N. Washington St.
Those interested in exploring membership may attend the Tuesday breakfasts or visit www.butleramrotary.com.
