James Russell Honored as Springfield Rotarian of the Year

SPRINGFIELD — The Rotary Club of Springfield recently honored James Russell as Rotarian of the Year. Russell has been a member of the Springfield Rotary Club for almost 50 years. He is a past president of the club, a Paul Harris Award recipient, a past chairperson of the membership committee, and a participant in many club activities. He was honored for his overall dedication and unwavering service to the club. “This event is to honor not only a great Rotarian, but a great and caring person, and most importantly a great friend,” said current club President Jay Leib. “Jim volunteers and steps up to help any and all activities the club gets involved with. He has been the glue that has kept our club together over the years. He always visits and stays in contact with those who are ill. And he is the first person to step up to help someone who is in need.” Russell was the third-generation owner and president of American Pest Solutions (APS) in Springfield, which was started in 1913 by his grandfather, Abraham Russell. In 2007, he retired and turned the reins over to the fourth generation — his son, Robert Russell, who is now president of APS. The company celebrated its 100th anniversary last year. The Rotary Club of Springfield meets every Friday at 12:15 p.m. in the MassMutual Room at the Basketball Hall of Fame. Lunch is $17 per person and open to the public.