Rotary Learns of its History

The Effingham Noon Rotary Club's annual report from its history committee gives members new and old the opportunity to learn about the Club's legacy.

This year's program focused on some of the club's past presidents and their connection not only to Rotary but to the Effingham community.

(CHARLES DAVIS)

Historian Charles Davis spoke of the club's first president in 1920, Ben Kagay.  In addition to his accomplishments, Davis shared the club's first leader was a descendant of Effingham's first mayor, also named Ben Kagay.

Davis shared about Dr. E.L. Damron, another club president who also served as Effingham's mayor. Damron also has a place in history as his car was once stolen by legendary outlaws Bonnie and Clyde.

The Moritz family was also a point of emphasis for the service of several famly members as club president as well as work on a number of community projects including the construction of Lake Sara.

Noon Rotary is closing in on its 100th anniversary, to be celebrated in 2020.  Rotary International is the world's largest service organization.

(CLUB PRESIDENT KERRY HIRTZEL, PRESIDENT-ELECT LOIS HOENE AND PRESIDENT-DESIGNATE CARRIE CRIPPEN)

Club President Kerry Hirtzel announced that Carrie Crippen had been nominated to serve as club president for the 2015-2016 Rotary year.  The Club endorsed the selection.

(ZACH TEGELER AND LUKE JANSEN)

St. Anthony High School students Zach Tegeler and Luke Jansen were present to discuss the upcoming CEO Experience, which will feature a series of economic development professionals.  The event will be held in February.