On Thursday evening, June 25, Watkins-Montour Rotarians gathered at the Watkins Glen Elks Lodge to thank 2025-26 President David Bond-Trimble for his year of service and welcome 2026-27 President Lou Perazzini into his new role.

President David thanked Club members for their support during the year and singled out Treasurer Michel Ray for having the idea for and organizing our first – and very successful! – Watkins Wing Walk. He cited fellowship, friendships and personal growth as the best parts of his year.

President Lou thanked Club members in advance for the support he is confident he will receive in the coming year. He said he wants our Club to be more visible in the community. Boosting membership is also on his list of goals.

“I think the Club is going to run smoothly and put us on a good track,” Lou said.

A highlight of the evening was hearing Angel Sanz, our 2025-26 exchange student from Mexico, share the speech he gave at the District 7120 Conference in May. Angel was selected to represent all exchange students.

“What’s the scariest thing you've ever done? Myself, 8 months ago, would have answered the fear of the unknown and experiencing new things. But now I’m living the life of an exchange student, living in a different country where everything is completely different from home, and so this is my story of living a new life,” his presentation begins. (Read his speech here.)

In introducing Angel, Nan Woodworth, our Youth Exchange officer, praised the positive impacts the program has on everyone touched by it: the students from across the globe, host families, fellow students and the teachers at local high schools, people in the community and, us, Rotarians.

“Every exchange student is an ambassador,” Nan said. “They represent their country, their family, and Rotary itself. Through everyday interactions and lifelong friendships, they break down stereotypes and build bridges between nations. In a world that often seems divided, these personal connections are more important than ever.”

Nan stressed the value of the program, which the board has paused for 2026-27.

“As Rotarians, our motto is ‘Service Above Self.’ Supporting Youth Exchange is a powerful expression of that motto. By sponsoring students, serving as host families, mentoring participants, and promoting the program in our communities, we are helping shape compassionate, informed, and engaged leaders for tomorrow.”

The outstanding meal was catered by the Bucket Bar & Grill. The amazing charcuterie spread was created by Michel Ray and, of course, wonderful desserts by Terri Orbin. Thank-you to all!