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INSTALLATION DINNER

INSTALLATION OF PRESIDENT VINCE GALLAGHER

Thursday, June 25th at the Belmont Country Club in St. Clairsville, Ohio was the installation of the 60th President of the Rotary Club of Bridgeport. Vince Gallagher begins his year on July 1st for his year as President. Along with the installation of President Vince, the club officers and Board were also sworn in by Assistant District Governor Dave Brooks. 

Elizabeth "Libby" Kraftician, CEO Touchstone Research Laboratory, Ltd. was the keynote speaker for the evening. She spoke about the humble beginnings of Touchstone Research Laboratory and it's growth to one of the premier research companies in the United States . She also spoke to the growth of technology in the Ohio Valley Area and the need for clubs like the Bridgeport Rotary to recognized entrepreneurs and business leaders in the area.

Two new Paul Harris fellows were also recognized. Connie Delande, wife of Past President Dan Delande was awarded the Paul Harris Fellowship for her help and support of Dan during his year as club president. Also recognized was local MLB Hall of Famer Phil Niekro. Phil has never forgotten his roots in the Lansing, Ohio area and has been recognized as a continuous support of the youth of the Ohio Valley even though he now resides in Atlanta, GA. 

What has also become a tradition of the Bridgeport Rotary Installation Dinner, the out-going officers and board members of the St. John Central High School Interact Club are recognized for their past year of community and international service. Afterwards, the incoming Interact officers and board members are recognized and sworn in. Club sponsor Mike McFarland introduced all of the student Interactors on hand for the evening.

Beginning this year, a new addition as been added to this tradition. The recognition and swearing in of officers and board members of the newly chartered Bridgeport High School Interact Club. Club Sponsor Stephanie Mendelson has been overwhelmed with the response and energy in which the new Interact club has grown. 

The Bridgeport Rotary Club is now one of a very small group of clubs in Rotary District 6690 that sponsors not one, but two Interact Clubs.

CONGRATULATIONS TO PRESIDENT VINCE AND GOOD LUCK ON YOUR YEAR AS PRESIDENT OF THE BRIDGEPORT ROTARY CLUB!

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