Mount Vernon's Rotary Club celebrates 100 years of service

The Mount Vernon Rotary Club celebrated its 100th anniversary Tuesday, Nov. 16, at the Grand Willow.

"We toasted the legacy of service set by those who came before us, particularly Pat Grenfell, our beloved club member who passed away two weeks ago," the group said in a Facebook post. "Pat was an integral member of the club, active in planning this celebration to her last days.

"Pat, we carry on the Rotary ideals set by you and all of the men and women, who since 1921 have put service above self. Thank you all of those who sponsored and pledged your support of the club's mission."

Club member David Lukov took to social media to share his thoughts of the night and post photos.

"We were entertained by Rebecca Pierce Murray, who played the role of Josephine Ruggles, the wife of one of the earliest Rotary members from Chicago," Lukov said on Facebook. "Past district Gov. Rob Martin inspired us with some of the history and values of our Rotary Club. We had a Charleston contest (I was impressed with all our contestants), an opportunity to honor Gary Lorenz for his commitment to service, a very inspiring speech from a previous Rotary Club scholarship recipient and a wonderful remembrance of our recently departed member, Pat Grenfell. It was a great evening to propel our club for the next 100 years."