RPB Rotary Inducts Officers At Annual Dinner

Incoming President Daniel Morales receives the gavel from outgoing President Jeff Hmara.

The Rotary Club of Royal Palm Beach kicked off its 30th anniversary year with the installation of new officers on Friday, June 28 at Palms West Hospital.

Outgoing President Jeff Hmara presented a summary of the club’s accomplishments during his term, including a tribute dinner honoring the schools of Royal Palm Beach. Hmara presented a number of certificates of appreciation to club members who went above and beyond over the last year.

Among those honored were Foundation Committee Chair Dr. Sarda Bhandary for his leadership in securing a global grant to purchase hospital equipment for Spanish Town Hospital in Jamaica. Also honored was Lorna Kernizan, who chaired the Membership Committee and spearheaded a successful new member year. Lynn Balch, a club charter member, was cited for his leadership of the Club Services Committee.

Steve Logan was honored for his leadership of the Rotary Has Heart Program, as was Tony Englert, who led the Crystal Apple Program honoring outstanding teachers, and Diane Smith, who chaired the Deputy of the Quarter Program honoring local law enforcement officers.

Following a buffet dinner prepared by the executive chef of Palms West Hospital, the new officers were installed by Assistant District Governor Evelyn Flores, a past president of the local club. The new officers are President Daniel Morales, President-Elect Dan Splain, Vice President Scott Snyder, Secretary Joan Scherer, Treasurer George Zabul, Sergeant-At-Arms Steve Epstein and Past President Jeff Hmara.

Morales closed the evening by calling on all members to step up and help enhance Rotary’s record of service to the community as the club navigates its 30th anniversary year.