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Rotary Club Hosts Fall Signature Event with Former Mayor Jeff Williams as Featured Speaker. On October 1, 2024, the Rotary Club of Arlington Highlands held its monthly meeting at River Legacy Park, drawing 14 members for an evening of fellowship and community updates. Known for being one of the most diverse Rotary clubs in the region, the group is a vibrant mix of professionals committed to service and community engagement. The event featured food from local favorite Prince Lebanese Grill and drinks provided by club member Paul Brodie.
The location was especially meaningful, as the keynote speaker was former Arlington Mayor Jeff Williams, who had played a key role as one of the engineers involved in the creation of the Nature Center 25 years ago.
This wasn’t just our usual meeting—it was a signature fall event, with former Mayor Jeff Williams as the featured speaker, adding significance to the occasion.
Among those in attendance were Dr. Shabana Parvez, Paul and Barbara Brodie, Angie Woods, Sandra Green, Rod Taylor, Dawud Mabon, Sam Elliott, Becky Gerro, Don Henry, Jim Swann, Jack Loteryman, Corey Callaway, and Sue Welch. Special guests included Dr. Parvez’s parents, Amira from Prince Lebanese Grill, Mike Gerro, and Prudence Mathis.
Rotary Club Updates
Club President Indian American Dr. Shabana Parvez, MD who leads the most diverse Rotary Club in the Arlington area, opened the meeting with announcements about upcoming events. A President’s Retreat is set for October 12 at 6 p.m., where members will gather for a brainstorming session to plan future initiatives. Additionally, the club is organizing a Service Project Cruise slated for February 2025, which aims to combine community service with an engaging travel experience.
Club President Dr. Shabana Parvez presented Former Mayor Jeff Williams with a check for the National Medal of Honor Museum, which is set to have its grand opening in Arlington on March 25, 2025. The museum’s establishment is a crowning achievement of Mayor Williams’ tenure and holds special significance as a passion project close to his heart.
October and November Events
Club member Corey Callaway reminded the group about the Rotary Pistol Shoot on October 26. Another community event on the horizon is the Johns Elementary Teacher Appreciation Social, scheduled for Friday, October 18, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., during which the Rotary Club will provide ice cream for the school’s staff. Members were encouraged to wear their Rotary shirts for the event.
River Legacy Report
Shannon Porter and Becky Gerro, representing River Legacy, provided an update on the park’s successful fundraising efforts during North Texas Giving Day. They also promoted two upcoming events: the River Legacy Fall Festival on October 5 and “A Night with Nature” scheduled for November 8, both of which are expected to draw community members and support the park’s educational and environmental initiatives.
Guest Speaker: Mayor Jeff Williams
The meeting’s featured speaker, Former Arlington Mayor Jeff Williams, was introduced by Paul Brodie. Mayor Williams, accompanied by his wife, spoke about key issues affecting Arlington and the importance of community involvement in shaping the city’s future. His remarks were well received by club members, who expressed their appreciation for his leadership and dedication to the city.
Former Mayor Jeff Williams expressed his deep passion for the city of Arlington and his admiration for its diversity. He recalled how, just three months into his term, residents and religious leaders from various faiths came together peacefully for a prayer meeting in response to an unfortunate police shooting. This unity, he said, exemplifies the strength and solidarity of the Arlington community, even in difficult times.
Former Mayor Jeff Williams has consistently been a unifying force, focusing on the city’s well-being despite the growing partisan divide. He takes great pride in Arlington being recognized as the fifth most diverse city in the nation. Among the significant accomplishments of his tenure are the successful negotiations that kept the Texas Rangers baseball team in Arlington. The Rangers’ 2023 World Series victory further propelled Arlington into the national spotlight, cementing the city’s reputation on a larger stage.
As the most diverse Rotary Club in the region, Arlington Highlands continues to stand out for its inclusive membership, reflecting a wide range of cultural, ethnic, and professional backgrounds. The club’s dedication to service and its emphasis on diversity make it a model for fostering unity in the community.
