Joe Ruffino Launches His Rotary Presidential Year with The Big Reveal!

by Robin Loving

“We are here because we love the people, projects, and opportunities to improve the community’s sustainability,” said Joe Ruffino, Rotary Midday’s President for 2023-2024 when he took office July 4. “We create hope in the world, the rewards of which are immeasurable. We have been recognized globally as an outstanding club thanks to outgoing President Lee and others over our 18-year, legacy-making history, and we’re not stopping there,” he continued.
 
Joe went on to say that we will focus on organizational continuity and collaboration with both Rotaract’s younger members and the 'night club' of Spanish-speaking Rotarians who meet at another place and time each week. Meanwhile, we will continue focusing on outstanding meetings, projects, and international opportunities. One of those will be with an international partner that has success in turning around youth who might otherwise become incarcerated.

“We are people of action,” said Joe as he introduced the incoming 2023-24 Board of Directors.  Each Board Member then explained how they would contribute to the success of the club.

Passing of the gavel from Lee Carter to Joe Ruffino Jr.

New Member Inductions

To kick off his presidential year, Joe inaugurated four new members, as follows:

• Robert Ash, who began as a Rotary scholar and is contributing expertise to our water projects
• Carla Cadena, who has worked behind the scenes for many years to ensure our success
• Lee Woodworth, who has a long, proud legacy of service to Kiwanis, Rotary, and Health Organizations
• Jill Noack, who has previous Rotary experience in the US

 
“Create hope in the world in whatever Rotary way appeals to you,” continued Joe, whose enthusiasm filled the room and the hearts of all there. “Our service is so impactful Rotary International is considering featuring us on its magazine cover,” he concluded.