Posted by Paul Keenon on Jul 10, 2019
 
 
The most important night of the Rotary year for the Rotary Club of Glen Ellyn is the installation of the club president and board of the upcoming year of 2019-20. This year the MC, Phil Norton, kept us waiting on the edge of our seats to see and hear what was going to happen next. From personal stories to witty quips about club members, as is his usual "modus operandi."
There were Paul Harris Fellow awards given to eight club members and then members of the club gave four PHF to loved ones. This represents about $12,000 donated to the Rotary International Foundation. One more PHF was awarded to Sue Martin for her work as the Membership Chair and was designated the Rotarian of the Year. Under the guidance of her committee we inducted ten new members last year.
The outgoing President, traditionally is given a token of thanks from the club. President Phil was ecstatic at receiving his favorite symbol of power for the President of any Rotary Club - The Bell! He got his very own and promised to ring it upon his entry to his home every evening.
Ultimately the focus of the evening took place. District 6440 Assistant Governor Paul J. Keenon installed President Penny Belke, who's family was present to honor her, and her board of 2019-20. It was a bit raucous for what should be revered as a solemn occasion, but with Phil Norton in the room and standing to the left of the Assistant Governor, he could not refrain from finishing his year with a few directions for the reading of the oath....PJ