Columbia-Patuxent Rotary Toasts 40 Years of Service, Fellowship

Current president Linda Ostovitz served as master of ceremonies, noting the club has been “a quiet source for good behind the scenes. We are invested in each other's lives. We are the family that we have chosen, and this club has grown. It's matured. It's lasted.”

Dr. Rajendar M. Saini, district governor when the club began, said about 25 people were considered for charter membership. The move received support from then-Rotary International President Dr. Cadman. A charter event drew over 100 attendees. Dr. Saini emphasized good leadership and dedication as keys to the club’s success.

“I'm exceptionally proud and happy to see you all and what you have done,” he said. “You are truly the best club, one of the best in the whole district. My hope is that I can count (on coming back) when you have the 50th anniversary.”

Inaugural president Skip Coale said the fledgling group struggled to find a suitable name, with suggestions such as “The Rest of Columbia,” “The Best of Columbia,” and “The Early Birds.” Ultimately, the “Columbia-Patuxent Rotary Club” was adopted. “Early on, we were primarily a make-up club for other Rotarians needing 100% attendance,” he recalled.

This added diversity, since transfers from other local clubs were not allowed initially. “Our ranks were made up of persons with no prior Rotary experience,” Skip commented. “This made the club kind of more non‑conformist and focused on having fun while serving. Over time, we evolved from a make‑up club into a distinct, tight‑knit community.”

Membership chair Sandy Harriman recounted the history of women in Rotary globally and in our club, plus her personal experience as an early female Rotarian. When Columbia-Patuxent was chartered in 1986, women were not allowed. About a year later, the US Supreme Court ruled that clubs may not exclude women.

In 1989 Columbia-Patuxent inducted its first female member, and Sandy believes she became the second woman in 1990. By 1992, their number had grown to six. Out of that group, Sandy, Joan Athen and San Croson are still present.

Treasurer Tom Allen shared a financial overview, describing total giving over 40 years, sources of funds, international projects, emergency responses, and the club’s endowment. He estimates about $2 million has gone to charities, mostly local nonprofits chosen by members. Members have given an additional $500,000 to the Rotary International Foundation.

In response to emergency and disaster needs, the club raised over $32,000 in the last five years alone. Tom said hands-on community service projects represent thousands of volunteer hours. Revenue for charitable purposes comes from donations and annual fundraisers. An endowment fund, seeded by a former member’s large donation and boosted by member contributions, has grown the amount available for annual nonprofit grants. The club received about $38,000 over the last four years in grants from Rotary International and others, including the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.

President Linda said the celebration also acknowledged those who have gone before. “We remember the contributions, we remember the legacy,” she stated. “We remember the impact that all those who have gone before us have had. With each year, with each person we gain, with each person we lose, we learn something. We pick up something that we pay forward. We modify, we improve, and we evolve. Thank you for the wonderful journey that the Rotary Club of Columbia-Patuxent has enjoyed in the last 40 years. We look forward to many more.”

Columbia-Patuxent is the largest and most active of Howard County's seven Rotary clubs. Meetings are held weekly on Fridays at 7:30 a.m. at JAM Eateries. Visitors are always welcome.