URGENT UPDATE: Morton A. Smith, a dedicated member of the Great Barrington Rotary Club, has just celebrated a remarkable milestone: 50 years of perfect attendance at weekly meetings. This achievement, confirmed on October 22, 2024, highlights Smith’s unwavering commitment, making it a significant moment for both him and the local community.
At 78 years old, Smith has attended an estimated 2,500 meetings, thanks to a provision that allows members to “make up” for absences by attending another Rotary meeting within a week. His dedication mirrors the legendary Lou Gehrig, who played every game for the New York Yankees for an astonishing 14 years. Smith’s journey with the Rotary began just a year after Gehrig’s debut in 1925.
Smith joined the Rotary Club just five months after it was founded, and since then, he has outlasted nearly all of his fellow members from that era. Many of the meeting venues, such as the Wayside Inn and Barrington House, have faded into history, but Smith remains a steadfast presence. “Once I started going,” Smith remarked, “I just kept going.” His story isn’t just about attendance; it represents a life woven into the fabric of Great Barrington.
Born in 1896, Smith has lived a long and active life. He graduated from MIT in 1914 and returned to his hometown to start a radio repair shop, during a time when radios were a novelty. Over the span of 34 years, his shop became a staple on Main Street, showcasing his commitment to the community. Remarkably, he once went 23 years without a day off from work.
This milestone reflects more than just numbers; it embodies the spirit of community service that the Rotary Club stands for. Smith’s perfect attendance is a testament to his health, dedication, and the bonds he has formed over the decades.
As the Great Barrington Rotary Club looks ahead, Smith’s exemplary attendance serves as an inspiration for current and future members. The community is encouraged to celebrate this milestone and recognize the values of commitment and service that Smith exemplifies.
Stay tuned for more updates on community events and the ongoing legacy of dedicated individuals like Morton A. Smith. His story is one that not only honors the past but also inspires the future of service in Great Barrington.
