The Salem Rotary Club has once again proven it knows how to help others and bring people to the table in Salem.
The city’s largest civic club has donated over $700,000 to worthy causes throughout the valley over the years and this May, the members continued their generous giving by funding the placement of outdoor furniture in the downtown district at Salem Library Square.
Four metal, powder coated patio-style tables with permanent attached bench seating, that are in the design style the city will be using throughout downtown, are now in place at one of the busiest areas of Main Street. The city targeted this specific location for the attractive seating because it is regularly used for outdoor dining and public gatherings. This project already is enhancing the city’s downtown beautification efforts and providing a space for citizens and visitors to relax outdoors.
“We are proud to be part of Salem’s downtown revitalization efforts,” says Ray Byrd, Salem Rotary Club President. “We have a very diverse membership with a variety of skill sets and passions. As a result, we are able to develop great projects like this one.”
The Rotary Club of Salem hosts annual events such as Olde Salem Days, the Old Dominion Athletic Conference men’s and women’s Basketball Tournaments and the annual Star B-Q Concert. This project was funded in part by grant money from Rotary District 7570, the district that oversees groups from Winchester to Bristol.
The Rotary Club of Salem has over 140 active men and women in its membership. Their “Service Above Self” efforts have developed several lasting city projects like Rotary Park located on Electric Road and Rotary Dog Park located on Indiana Street. In addition, the Rotary Club is responsible for placing the Free Little Library boxes throughout the city for free, community-driven book exchanges.
If you would like more information about the Salem Rotary Club and any of its projects, please contact Frank Peck via email at rfpeckpremier@cox.net.
-Submitted by Mike Stevens, City of Salem Communications Director