New York club turns 100
By Ryan Hyland
Rotary International News -- 9 December 2009
Celebrating the Rotary Club of New York's centennial during a 6 November gala are (left to right) District Governor Karl F. Milde Jr, his wife, Cheryl, celebration chair Arcadio Casillias, Barbara Wankoff, and club president David Wankoff.
Photo by linzphoto
The Rotary Club of New York recently celebrated 100 years of service and fellowship with a formal gala at the Union League Club of New York.
"This is a celebration of our club's historic impact on New York City, the United States, and the world," said Arcadio Casillas, past club president and centennial celebration chair. "We celebrate past success not as a culmination, but as a commencement of a renewed New York Rotary."
From its support of the Safe Water Project for families in Africa to its diligent fundraising for local families affected by the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the New York club has improved the lives of millions at home and abroad.
The centennial gala, held 6 November, raised more than $100,000 for the club's foundation, which will distribute the funds to city charities that help the homeless and needy.
"Service has been the key to our success," said club president David Wankoff. "Exemplifying our motto, Service Above Self, our members often put their own personal and business affairs aside to serve the community."
Rotarians from several countries, including France, Germany, Italy, and Japan, flew to New York City to celebrate the club's centennial.
Jean-Claude Gruffat, a former New York club member, now a member of the Rotary Club of Paris, flew in from France to attend the party.
"I had to be here for the centennial celebration. It's such an extraordinary accomplishment," said Gruffat, whose business obligations prompted a move to Paris. "I came not only as a former member but as a friend and partner."
Gruffat's Paris club has partnered with the New York club on several projects in Africa and Eastern Europe.
Established on 24 August 1909, the New York club is Rotary's sixth oldest and has more than 120 members.