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Greater Paris Rotary celebrates 33 years
Staff Report
Published November 5, 2009
The Greater Paris Rotary Club recently gathered in celebration of 33 years of “service above self” in its membership.
“As we shared stories of our Club over the last 33 years, the common thread has been camaraderie, fun and service above self to our fellow man,” said Courtney Eudy, club president. “We look forward to carrying on the legacy that has been set forth.”
With a birthday cake marking the occasion, Rotarians reminisced about the beginning years where popcorn and candy sales served as club fundraisers. Chartered in 1976, the club started as the Rotary Club of Paris South, with a line between Lamar and Bonham dividing the two rotary clubs in Paris. The first charter presentation banquet saw 27 members attend.
Also when the Rotary Club was chartered, women were not allowed to be members. Today, women provide a vital role in the club’s function, said Stephen Gerrald, club public relations officer. Current Rotarian Linda Flippen served as the first female member of the Greater Paris Rotary Club and also served as a past club president.
Club members were able to see the numerous awards received by the group throughout the years, including the Bill Campbell award, given to one outstanding Rotary Club out of many in the district each year. The awards are to be placed in permanent storage at the Paris Junior College Aiken Archives.
Today, 60 members of all race and gender are part of the group, working together to host community fundraisers and events such as the fireworks fundraiser, “Football Frenzy” and other programs. Six charter members still remain active in the club.
“As they concluded their meeting as always, a hint of pride could be felt in the past of the club, and even more so in the present progress and future potential, as each member recited the always guiding four-way test of the things Rotarians think, say and do,” Gerrald said. “Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build good will and better friendship? And will it be beneficial to all concerned? Each looked forward to the next 33 years and the impact we all realize that the club will have on Paris, Lamar County and even beyond, throughout the world.”
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