District Governor John Padgett (c) with Shep Miller (l) and President Gary (r).
The Program:
David Rosenthal, Assistant District Governor, introduced District 7600 Governor John Padgett, past Club President and our first District Governor since Paul Sykes.
John is managing director of McGuire Woods, LLP Norfolk office and leader of its transportation industry team. He has consistently achieved top lawyer designations in maritime and transportation fields. In addition to Rotary, John’s distinguished community and professional service includes leadership positions with Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, Tidewater Community College, YMCA of South Hampton Roads and Hampton Roads, Hampton Roads Economic Alliance, and German Honorary Counsel for Virginia.
John obtained a BA from University of Virginia and JD from Washington & Lee School of Law.
John’s Rotary journey began as a Kempsville High School senior where he benefited from a joint program with Junior Achievement. He equated his Rotary experience to planting trees over the years and reaping the benefit of “shade or lumber harvest” in years to come. From polio eradication to Rotary Club of New York having a significant role in the locating UN headquarters there, John said Rotary impact story is not told often enough and as District Governor he wants to change that. With over 40 appearances at District clubs and other venues, John is well on the road to raising that awareness. He gave due credit to wife Lee Ann for her support and chauffer service to many of these events.
Growing membership and lowering age demographic are also high on John’s list. He cited programs from Blackstone and Farmville clubs that could helpful in this regard.
John thanked volunteers and encouraged participation at upcoming District 7600 Conference in Norfolk, where 300 Rotarians are expected.
A book in John’s honor was given to Chesterfield Academy.
The Meeting:
President Gary Boswick presided. Pam Tubbs and Frank Whitman provided musical direction. Rachel Bellis gave invocation with a grateful heart.
Visitors:
- Rotarians present were Jack Hilgers and David Rosenthal from the Hampton Roads Club;
- Chuck Spence introduced Chris Everly and Amelia Ross-Hammond, Young Audiences of Virginia, the designated Suds and Buds charity for the 2018 event;
- Walt Sobczyk brought Jonas Smed;
- Steve Schultz introduced Sami Hamad, sales manager for the Norfolk Admirals.
Happy Bucks:
- Barbara Lipskis for upcoming Virginia Stage Company events;
- Shep Miller upon turning 60 and recent heart procedure;
- Jim Alllison, Salvation Army Commander, for hurricane relief centers;
- Chip Vogan for the October 10 meeting to bring a guest challenge;
- Jim O’Brien for John Padgett success;
- Sharon Laderberg for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.