Rotary honors community members

Photo by D.J. Hall

Citizen of the Year is honored. Front row left to right: Dwayne King, Richie Blum, Bryan Tackett (the winner), Bud Matheny, Anne Stephens Back row left to right: James Beaumont, Jay Nance, Steve Hines, Scott Hill, and Vincenzo Fressola.



By Morgan Hall 

The Greenup Beacon 

On a particularly cool and rainy day last week, the Russell Rotary honored several citizens in our community that have went above and beyond the values that the Rotary embodies. 

Scott Hill opened the ceremony, introducing their newest Rotary member, his son. Recently, the Rotary lost a dear member unexpectedly and Hill's son will be taking on his previous duties as treasurer. Hill's background in accounting makes him a capable candidate for the job. 

Hill brought a thank you letter from Amy for Africa. As the organization sponsored 7 children in 2022. Thus providing clothing and various support needed by these children at her school. A motion was brought to the floor to continue this sponsorship for 2023 and it was given approval. "We got a thank you note from Amy telling us the impact Russell Rotary club is making in Africa. That's pretty awesome. We are proud of what Amy is doing over there."  

Earl Twinam offered his statement regarding today's ceremony. 

"My idea for this gathering came from the Florence Rotary club. They had roughly 120 people attend their luncheon and they gained 10 new members, while they recognized members of the community. So, I thought this would be a beneficial way to honor some individuals and possibly pick up a few members all at once. This will be our first luncheon offering citizen awards to community members and we plan for it to be an annual event." 

As the board members all lined up front to show their support, Hill shared his sentiments. "By being here today, you're a winner. We want you to know that the Rotary Club appreciates you and we see the work you're doing."

Those nominated for the Citizen of the year award were: Anne Stephens, Bud Matheny, Mike Wilson, Richie Blume, Dwayne King and Bryan Tackett. The honor of the citizen of the year award was awarded to Bryan Tackett. 

Hill read the inscription on the plaque presented to Tackett.  

"In recognition of your dedication and service to the students of Russell Independent Schools, the Boy Scouts, the Fraternal Order of Police and the Greenup County Community, you are the Citizen of the year elected by the Russell Rotary Club."

Tackett humbly accepts his award. 

"It's a privilege to be here. I had no idea about the award. I'm shocked. I thought I was coming for lunch and to hang out with everyone. To everyone that was nominated and to the Rotary Club I'm honored." 

Vincenzo Fressola congratulated all of the people in the community that were nominated stating they have been an inspiration to him and he shared how he met Bud Matheny. "Bud was one of the first gentlemen I met, about 15 years ago. He asked if I knew how to swing a hammer and I acknowledged I did. I brought my tools and we built a Habitat for Humanity house up the road."

"Giving back to the community is really what the rotary is all about. I am proud to be here as a citizen, as a friend and as a neighbor. Through the roles of Rotary after 15 years, I have applied myself through the ranks. I promote it, I encourage it and I welcome everyone to join us here at the Russell Rotary." 

Hill concluded the meeting. "Rotary is service above self. It's all about 'how can I serve others?' 'How can I serve my community?' 'How can I make the commitment better?' If you're wondering what Rotary all about and the different programs that we sponsor from Amy for Africa to the Salvation Army- by helping keep the homeless shelter open. We are proud of our service above self and that's what Rotary club is all about. It's not about us, it's about others."

Every week they provide food at their meetings and also host a guest speaker. So, every week is an opportunity to learn something new and meet new people in our community. "The relationships I have formed with people in this room are absolutely priceless. I would encourage you to think about getting involved. We would certainly make you feel welcome and would love to have you here." 

The Russell Rotary Club meets Thursdays at noon at The Warehouse at Bridges Christian Church on 1402 Kenwood Dr. in Russell. For more information about the club, visit its Facebook page at Facebook.com/RussellRotary or contact Earl Twinam at (606) 833-5963.