Medina Rotary welcomes new president of club on upswing
Provided photo
MEDINA – The Medina Rotary Club honored outgoing president Ben McPherson, right, and welcomed the club’s new leader, Peter Bartula, during the club’s meeting on Wednesday evening at the Shelridge Country Club.
McPherson led the club for three years, during a time when membership grew from eight to 23 and the club added fundraisers and community service projects.
The club also is marking its 100th anniversary. It officially formed on June 4, 1923.
McPherson, a financial advisor, said he enjoyed his tenure as president. He joins Gary Lawton as the only presidents to serve three straight years. (Lawton was president from 2006 to 2009.) The club typically rotates its leadership after a year.
“I have truly had a great time leading a club that has done so much for the community over the past 100 years,” McPherson said today. “Being born and raised in Medina it was important for me to find a group that worked towards a better tomorrow and Rotary was that group for me. I feel like the success we had in both growth and new events all stemmed from a great environment and energy that has been in the club even before my time.”
McPherson said the club’s members work towards common goals and have a great spirit of camaraderie.
“We are always open to new ideas and try to foster a group that is inviting to everyone,” McPherson said. “Most people don’t realize how much is poured into these smaller organizations like Rotary, Lions, etc. They are foundational to our communities and anyone interested should find out which club suits them best. I am excited to be a part of the future of the club and know it is going to be in great hands with Peter as President!”
Bartula is retired from a computer sales business. He also runs a travel website, SeeNewYorkWithUs.com.
Medina Rotary meets at noon the second and fourth Wednesdays each month at Shelridge.
