Demopolis Rotary recognizes four Paul Harris Fellows

Four residents of Demopolis Wednesday were presented as Paul Harris Fellows by the Demopolis Rotary Club.

Named for Rotary’s founder, the honor recognizes leaders – both Rotarian and non-Rotarian – who have made a difference in their community. Each Fellow is recognized with a $1,000 donation to the Rotary Foundation to ensure continued support for the international group’s humanitarian efforts.

Recognized Wednesday were John F. and Ellen (Byrd) Rish, presented by Mem Webb; Rob Fleming, presented by Jay Reynolds, and Katie Echols Windham, presented by Jason Windham.

The Rishes have been active with the Demopolis Food Pantry for more than 18 years, said Webb. “Your life exemplies the objectives of the Rotary Foundation,” he continued.

The couple, who have two children, also are active with Trinity Episcopal Church.

Past Rotary Club president Fleming, who joined the club in 2007, is the sole proprietor of Fleming Photography. He is a graduate of Leadership Marengo, serves on the board of Bryan W. Whitfield Memorial Hospital, past chairman of the Demopolis Area Chamber of Commerce and of Christmas on the River and a founder and board member of the Demopolis Area Business Council.

Windham, a native of Selma and raised in Linden, earned her business administration degree from Auburn. She returned to the area 10 years ago as vice president of human resources at Robertson Banking Company.

Her community involvement includes YouthLEAD, Leadership Marengo, past chairman of the DACC and an active member of the Marengo County Auburn Club, said Jason Windham.

She will be president of the club beginning in July after serving as treasurer and secretary and has spearheaded the Service Committee and Kids at Christmas projects for many years.

The local club has recognized more than 80 Paul Harris Fellows, and it has contributed some $150,000 to the Foundation. Currently there are 20 active Paul Harris Fellows in the club.