BETHEL — Dave Freiday and Dick Rasor, both of Bethel, have been named Paul Harris Fellows by the Rotary Club of Bethel. Three Bethel Rotarians cited Freiday and Rasor for the honor to acknowledge their efforts in giving of their time and resources to support humanitarian projects, youth and senior programs and other activities which enhance the lives of the people of Bethel.

“Although not Rotary Club members, they are Rotarians in their hearts and actions as they give of themselves to better the lives of others,” said Joseph Arizzi, newly installed president of the club.

The fellowship is named for Paul Harris who founded Rotary with three business associates in Chicago in 1905. It was established in his honor in 1957 to express appreciation to any Rotarian who contributes $1,000 to the humanitarian and educational programs of the Rotary Foundation. Walter Hatch and Cynthia and Bob Laux of the Rotary Club of Bethel contributed $1,000 to the foundation. Instead of receiving a fellowship themselves, Hatch chose to present his fellowship to Freiday and the Lauxes presented their fellowship to Rasor.

Freiday, of Earth Design Associates, has been a tireless worker and contributor to many Rotary projects. He helps set up for the senior Christmas luncheon, furnishes prizes for contributors to Christmas for Children, moves all kinds of articles for the Rotary yard sale and provides donuts and coffee for all workers. He makes himself and his Bobcat available for such Rotary projects as wood cutting and splitting in order to furnish wood to families in need. He also contributed to the landscaping at Telstar High School.

Robin Zinchuk of the Bethel Chamber called Freiday the chamber’s number one volunteer. He carries and sets up tables and chairs for all the chamber events as well as helps the chamber staff in the office.

Bob Laux identified Rasor, owner of the Bethel Inn, as the community’s “unsung hero.” Rasor has allowed Rotary to hold its fundraising golf tournament at the Bethel Inn for the past 15 years. During this time, the Rotary has raised in excess of $100,000 to support local and international projects and community organizations.

Rasor himself has supported numerous youth programs in Bethel, including Mahoosuc Kids, allowing them swimming access to the inn’s property on Songo Pond and the Youth Golf Program, sponsoring the golf teams of Telstar High School. He is also a sponsor of the community fireworks for July fourth and Mollyockett Day and has hosted numerous community meetings and events at the Bethel Inn.

The Rotary Club of Bethel meets at 7:30 a.m. Tuesdays, at the Bethel Inn. For more information, call 824-0080.

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