In addition to installing our new President Michael Hoey, Arcadia Rotarians looked forward to the awarding of Arcadia Rotary’s annual Rotary Awards. The awards focus on different service areas and honor Past District Governors who were Arcadia Rotarians.
The Ernest E. Jensen “Service to Youth Award” was presented by the 2013-14 recipient Rodger J. “Coach” Wright. The 2014-15 recipient is a graduate of UC Davis and a certified scuba diver who has lived in Arcadia since 1998 along with her spouse and children. An active volunteer in Arcadia, the awardee gave many hours to Highland Oaks PTSA, Rolling Readers, Foothills Middle School, Arcadia High School Music Club, Teacher Appreciation Luncheon, Cub Scout Assistant Den Leader, and the Assistance League. Despite dealing with medical issues since 2014, the recipient continued to help with band uniforms. Awardee Nancy Tang was represented by her husband Alex Chang and two sons who accepted the award on her behalf and spoke eloquently of her selfless devotion.
The John R. Fee “New Member Award” is given each year to an outstanding new member of Arcadia Rotary. Presenter John Wilson, last year’s recipient, began with all Arcadia Rotarians standing then began the process of elimination: Over 20 years, sit down, never received a reminder call from Dirk Hudson, sit down, never helped with Casino Night, sit down, never attended District Assembly, sit down, never served as President of Icebreakers, sit down. The awardee Teri Muse remained standing. As a new member, Teri has jumped into the thick of Rotary service in many aspects of Arcadia Rotary and has made our club richer by her membership.
The Alton E. Scott “Community Service Award” was presented by 2013-14 recipient Aaron Rose. The award honors community service and this year’s recipient exemplifies this in all aspects of his life. Married over 60 years, the recipient served our country bravely in World War II and has received high military honors. A father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, he is now retired from a career as an exceptional salesperson. A graduate of USC and Pasadena Community College, he is a classic car enthusiast and is often seen driving his Model A through the streets of Arcadia. Awardee Ken Mallory has actively served Arcadia Rotary in many capacities, including serving on the Board of Directors, and continues to give his time and service to his community.
The “H.T. Michler Rotarian Award” is presented each year to a Rotarian as recognition of accumulated and continued service to Arcadia Rotary for years. Prior recipient Bob Harbicht presented this year’s award to the “perfect recipient.” This member’s boundless enthusiasm has energized every aspect of Arcadia Rotary as he has served in every capacity during 28 years of membership. A list of all the activities and positions of responsibility in Arcadia Rotary would be long and varied. Richly deserving of the honor, awardee Matt Weaver is an example of what a Rotarian should be as he continues to inspire and lead various projects in our club, including the Installation Banquet.