by Joe Wilhelm Jr.
Staff Writer
The Rotary Club of Jacksonville’s new president, Carl Cannon, announced the theme of the club when his term started Monday at the University Club.
“Virtually every day is set aside for Rotarians to meet together,” said Cannon, retired publisher of the Florida-Times Union. “Monday will be the day we set aside over the next year to focus on our goals.”
The Jacksonville Club is the 41st in an organization that has grown to 33,000 clubs worldwide and Cannon would like to see the Jacksonville club double in size during his term.
“I’d like to see every member sign up one new member,” said Cannon.
The club is about 300 members strong and might have to find a bigger meeting space if it reaches 600 members.
The new president was introduced by past president Jack Diamond, who was pleased with the group’s progress over the past year.
“Our life is short, and I live to take advantage of every moment,” said Diamond, president of Rink Architects, P.A. “I really hope (the Rotary Club) felt we have done that this year.”
Diamond also revealed the recent accolade awarded to the Jacksonville Club, the Rotary International Presidential Citation Award. Clubs earn the award by meeting the membership goal and fulfilling requirements in six different service categories including membership, club service, vocational service, community service, international service and youth.
Steve Bacalis, owner of Tom Nehl Truck Company, was also recognized as club president-elect.
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