A message of peace now welcomes visitors at the main entrance of Cato-Meridian Elementary School.

The Cato Rotary Club held a dedication ceremony Sept. 16 for a peace pole honoring Gordon Clarke, a beloved Rotarian and dedicated community member. Purchased by the club, the pole displays the words “May Peace Prevail on Earth” in English, French, Spanish and Ukrainian.

Clarke’s wife of 61 years, Sally, attended the ceremony along with their daughter, Lisa, and granddaughter, Taylor.

Rotary members and Elementary School Principal Danielle Mahoney shared remarks during the ceremony. Those gathered also joined their voices in songs dedicated to peace and harmony.

“We are thrilled to have the Peace Pole near our entrance for all to see. What makes it even more meaningful is that this pole in particular was dedicated to Gordon Clarke. Gordon was a long standing icon in the community who embodied the pole’s message of Peace on Earth. Thank you to our local Rotary for this symbol of peace,” Mahoney said.

Elementary school teacher and Cato Rotary Club member Monica Krupa explained how the project connects to Rotary’s broader efforts to promote peace.

“Local Rotary Clubs are encouraged to plant these peace poles to promote peace and understanding worldwide. The poles are placed in various community places including parks and schools. It is an honor for our club to team up with Cato-Meridian Schools,” Krupa said.

At Cato-Meridian Elementary, the pole will serve as a daily reminder of that shared hope while honoring Clarke’s dedication to the community.