The Rotary Club of Mineola marked the beginning of a new Rotary year by installing its 2026–2027 officers and board members, recognizing outstanding service by members and community partners, welcoming a new Rotarian, and celebrating the completion of the club’s new Rotary Bridge at the Mineola Nature Preserve.
Incoming President Roy Shockey, who presided over the meeting, reflected on the club’s recent activities, including a recent successful car show and community outreach efforts, before presenting several awards recognizing individuals whose service exemplifies Rotary’s motto, Service Above Self.
Jim Bailey was surprised with the club’s 2025–2026 Rotarian of the Year Award in recognition of his unwavering commitment to Rotary service. Shockey praised Bailey as a member who consistently volunteers for club projects with “a willing heart and willing hands,” noting that he is always willing to step in wherever help is needed.
Bailey was also recognized for advancing to Paul Harris Fellow +4 after making a generous contribution during the club’s recent Paul Harris matching campaign. The Paul Harris Fellow recognition honors members who support The Rotary Foundation and is named for Rotary International founder Paul Harris.
The club also presented the Gary Bright Memorial Award to Moses Torres in recognition of his extraordinary assistance during the demolition and construction of the new Rotary Bridge. Unable to attend the meeting, Torres accepted the award through Mineola Civic Center Manager Lisa Bright.
Shockey credited Torres with going well beyond his normal duties throughout the bridge project. Torres supplied his personal generator during much of the construction, helped remove debris and old lumber, operated equipment during cleanup, and assisted with nearly every phase of the project.
“He was there without even being asked,” Shockey said. “Moses really helped us a great deal in the construction of our bridge that we just completed,” Shockey said. Shockey added that the club appreciated Torres “generous support and assistance that he gave the Rotary Club during the construction and demolition of the new bridge.”
The Rotary Club also welcomed Mayor pro-tem Terry Eaton as its newest member. Sponsored by fellow Rotarians Greg Holland and Greg Souser, Eaton joined the club after becoming involved through the Mineola City Council.
Assistant Governor Bill Martin administered the oath of office to Shockey and the club’s officers and board members, officially installing the leadership team for the 2026–2027 Rotary year. Martin reminded the incoming leaders that their role is to inspire members, strengthen fellowship, and continue Rotary’s tradition of service while encouraging participation in district and international leadership opportunities.
The club also announced several upcoming events, including its annual Murder Mystery Dinner on Oct. 10 and Electronics Recycling Day on Oct. 24. Members will continue expanding the club’s successful electronics recycling program by assisting neighboring Rotary clubs interested in launching similar fundraisers, while also encouraging volunteers to participate in monthly food distributions at the Mineola Food Pantry.
Following the meeting, Rotarians gathered outside to celebrate the completion of the new Rotary Bridge, a project made possible through the dedication of club volunteers and community partners. As the new Rotary year begins, the Mineola Rotary Club continues its tradition of community service, environmental stewardship and fellowship while living out Rotary’s enduring motto, Service Above Self.