Rotary Members Recognized for Humanitarian Contributions

Four members of the Coudersport Rotary Club were recognized at the Club’s recently held Fireside Chat and Award Ceremony, including; Pat Northeimer and Fr. Elaine Silverstrim, each receiving their first Paul Harris recognition, and Paul Herzig and Judge John B. Leete, who were each honored with their second Paul Harris awards.

The Paul Harris honorees were recognized for their contributions to the Rotary Foundation Polio Fund; a project aimed toward eliminating the threat of Polio in third world countries, as well as their contributions to other worthy humanitarian projects. “In Rotary, we mean it when we say, ‘Service above Self’, and we realize that small gifts, given faithfully over time, add up to making a difference for all time,” stated Fr. Elaine Silverstrim.

Fr. Elaine Silverstrim is a 9-year Rotarian and a retired Episcopalian Priest who entered the priesthood after working in education and business. She currently serves as Rotary Treasurer and has spearheaded the development of the “Interact Club” of Coudersport; a Rotary-affiliated community service club for teens.

Pat Northeimer has been an active member of the Coudersport Rotary Club for 11 years and is a co-director and Clinical Director for Cole Care. Pat is also a registered nurse, enjoys the outdoors, working at Ski Denton as a ski instructor in her free time. Pat is a Rotary Board Member and has coordinated several successful fundraisers and events including the Annual Comprehensive Blood Draw slated for May 21st.

Paul Herzig first joined Rotary in 1987 and is the owner of the Laurelwood Inn together with his wife Christine. Paul had a prestigious background in law enforcement and education in California preceding his move to the Coudersport area. He is an avid musician and has been actively involved in the Potter Players theater group both as an actor and director. He has held many leadership positions in Rotary including multiple terms as President.

Judge John B. Leete has been an active Rotarian for 31 years and currently presides as Senior Judge after a 22-year career as the Common Pleas judge of Potter County. John has worked extensively in various youth projects including the Rotary foreign exchange student programs. He is a past Rotary President and Board member.