KVOE General Manager Ron Thomas got special recognition from the Rotary Club of Emporia on Tuesday.
Club members bestowed the Paul Harris Fellowship — “plus one” — as part of their regular meeting. Thomas has been in Emporia for nearly 40 years, and he says this is special coming from the Rotary Club.
Thomas says Emporia is a special place, as demonstrated repeatedly by the community’s generosity.
Rotary Club Immediate Past President Jacque Wellnitz says the honor was well-deserved.
Thomas’ pin will now have a special sapphire jewel attached.
Rotarians honored Thomas for his longstanding work in the community, including the annual Ron’s Ride fundraiser generating more than $50,000 total for Special Olympians. Thomas has also emceed numerous local events. Thomas has received honors locally and statewide, including his recent induction into the Kansas Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame, as well as Emporia Main Street’s Volunteer of the Year, the Emporia State Service Citation and the Salvation Army’s Outstanding Service Award as examples.
Nationwide, this recognizes people who either contribute at least $1,000 to the Rotary Foundation or have contributions to that level made in their honor. The Emporia Rotary Club honors a community member with the fellowship every year for somebody who has made a notable community impact.
Click here for KVOE’s YouTube channel, including a YouTube Short video from the event.
