Memorials, Recognition - Jamestown Rotary Club, 80th anniversary -

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Kelly Keisling

Ceremonial recognition of Jamestown Rotary Club on its 80th anniversary for decades of public service, youth education and community philanthropy, formally commended and recorded.

Signed by Governor.

#memorials #recognition

Purpose and Status

Purpose: A memorial joint resolution recognizing and honoring the Jamestown Rotary Club on the occasion of its 80th anniversary (chartered April 1945).

Status: Signed by the Governor on May 7, 2025, completing the legislative process.

Legislative type: Joint resolution (ceremonial/memorial recognition), not creating or altering law.

Key Provisions

The resolution expresses commendation of the Jamestown Rotary Club and its members (past and present) for dedication to public service and the community.

It congratulates the club on its eightieth anniversary and extends best wishes for continued success.

The language notes the club’s alignment with Rotary International’s mission of humanitarian service, ethical standards, goodwill, and peace.

The resolution includes a formal clause allowing for an appropriately prepared copy to be presented, with clerk-related formalities.

Background and Context

Jamestown Rotary Club is part of Rotary International, a global network focusing on service, education, and community improvement.

The club was chartered in April 1945 and, at the time of the resolution, has 23 members, all of whom are Paul Harris Fellows.

The bill highlights the club’s long-standing involvement in youth education (scholarships, Interact clubs at local high schools, and a Rotaract club at a community college) and various community service projects.

Notable Programs and Community Impact Highlighted

Education and youth programs: Scholarships to local seniors and Miss Upper Cumberland Pageant winner; Interact clubs at Clarkrange High School and York Institute; New Charter Rotaract Club at Roane State Community College.

Community service and fundraising: Third-Grade Dictionary Project; multiple annual fundraising events (Chicken Festival, Car Show, Chicken Run, Field of Flags/Flags for Heroes, Christmas events, and Reindeer Dash); Children’s Shopping Spree Radio-Thon (averaging about $25,000 annually for local children).

Local philanthropy: Donations to Handfuls of Harvest Food Kitchen, Blessing Box, Fentress County Children’s Center, and local sports teams.

Community improvements: Upgrades to Mark Twain Park, including infrastructure, landscaping, and a Book Library with a bookworm metal art display.

Procedural/Timeline Highlights

Introduced: April 22, 2025.

House actions: Adopted/concurred on April 22, 2025 (unanimous approvals in both chambers noted in the record).

Senate actions: Concurred and transmitted; signed by Senate Speaker on April 28, 2025.

Governor action: Signed on May 7, 2025.

Overall: The resolution passed both chambers with unanimous approval and was signed into law as a ceremonial recognition.

Impact

The bill serves as formal, ceremonial recognition of the Jamestown Rotary Club’s 80 years of service and community impact.

It publicly documents appreciation for the club’s contributions to youth education, philanthropic activities, and local civic life, without imposing new regulatory requirements.

Bill