The Rotary Club of Hudson has begun its new fiscal year, July 2024 to June 2025, with the elections of a President, Board and Foundation members in preparation for a continuation of planned community service projects.
Kelly Brennan, financial leader of the successful historic log cabin restoration project and spokesperson for HCTV and Gala documentaries, is the new President. He was installed at a Blue Canyon dinner featuring comments from 13 past presidents who recalled their successful civic projects over many years. Ron Strobl, past president, was honored with the Rotarian of the Year award for his long involvement as Sargent at Arms, the Annual Gala, HHS College Scholarships program and the Memorial Day parade.
As a result of the Club’s Strategic Planning, major community projects have been completed or are underway. Over $270,000 was raised for the log cabin restoration rededicated August 2023, two Pollinator Gardens have been established at Hudson Elementary Schools and the 2024 Gala raised funds to help complete a pre-school Safety Town. The Gala also generated funding for Rotary’s annual support of Gift of Life NEO and six college/trade school scholarships for HHS seniors.
Involvement in numerous community events provides Rotarians a chance to greet the public and enjoy each other’s company while supporting Hudson’s family activities. These include the Memorial Day parade, HUDSONmArt Fair, the Octoberfest Biergarten and Santa-on-the-Green staged in the restored Log Cabin (photo). Hudson Scouting is also assisted with a Camp Manatoc clean-up day, maintenance of the historic log cabin meeting place and an annual Scout troop presentation of activities to the Club members.
One of the core values of being a Rotary Club of Hudson member is the weekly meeting exposure to speakers representing Health, Arts, Community Development, Sports, Entertainment, Civic Leadership, Safety, the Environment, Senior Services and Youth Leadership. Candidate debates are also staged during election years. The public is invited to attend any of these meetings by registering at www.rotaryhudson.org.
Rotary membership is comprised of professionals, business leaders, religious leaders, school and community officials, retirees from many walks of life, health administrators, environmental advocates and young entrepreneurs. The idea exchange at regular meetings is very active.
The Rotary Foundation manages funds raised, reviews requests for grants and makes recommendations for distributing funds to worthy causes. Historically the Foundation has supported Music from Western Reserve, Hudson Job Search, Hudson EMS, HCTV, Hudson Special Olympics and Hudson Community First. Total grants are approaching $1 million.