Rotary Club donates clock to Downey

Mayor Mario Trujillo speaks at a dedication ceremony July 16 for a new clock in Downtown Downey, donated by the Rotary Club of Downey. Photo by Alex Dominguez

A new clock installed in Downtown Downey was dedicated last month to commemorate the Rotary Club of Downey’s 100th anniversary.

The clock, located at the corner of 3rd Street and Downey Avenue, was gifted by the club.

“One of the things that makes Downey Downey is we are so giving; we take care of our own,” said Mayor Mario Trujillo. “We do that through our churches…We have 14 registered nonprofits, and of course we have what I think is a great city council that really looks out for the needs our city.

“Together with these amazing partnerships with organizations like the Rotary Club of Downey, our school district, and the churches, we’re able to take care of our own to make sure that our families have the essential needs: shelter, food, and of course, safety.”

Trujillo called Rotary “a diverse community of individuals who come together pooling their expertise and passions for the greater good.”

“In doing so, they not only serve our community, but also foster lasting friendships and meaningful connections that transcend the projects they undertake,” said Trujillo.

Councilwoman Dorothy Pemberton said the clock would “be a legacy for years to come.”

“What makes us stronger is the community service clubs, and there are so many,” said Pemberton. “It’s good to see that we are still strong in our community. As our Mayor Trujillo said, keeping Downey clean, keeping Downey safe, that’s what brings people back to Downey, it’s what they remember growing up here.”

Barbara Lamberth, Immediate Past President of Rotary Downey, said the club would continue to “collectively demonstrate service above self in our Downey community and worldwide.”

“We thank the city of Downey for accepting our perpetual gift, to show our continued dedication to service,” said Lamberth.

A time capsule – to be opened in 25 years - will also be buried alongside the clock, consisting of rotary memorabilia, poems and essays submitted by Downey Unified School District students, and other artifacts.