Remembering

Twenty-five years have passed since September 11, 2001. A quarter of a century has gone by, yet, the memory of that day remains clear in our minds.

We pause to remember every life taken on that dark morning and hold so many families in our hearts. Their loss changed our world forever, and we carry their names in our shared history.

We honor the brave first responders who rushed into danger without hesitation. We remember ordinary people who became heroes in an instant. Each one gave everything to save others and their courage still guides us.

Time continues to move forward, but our unity stays strong. Compassion and community outlast any tragedy. We stand together today, and we will never forget.

Patty Sparano, Corresponding Secretary

And we Celebrate!!

 

As we prepare to celebrate 250 years of American independence, we honor our nation's past, we celebrate its diversity, and work together to shape the future of our country.

This 250th birthday is not just a single-day event, it is an invitation for communities all over our country to come together. This historic observance is an opportunity to reflect on our remarkable journey, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look forward to the promise of the next generation as we join the nationwide countdown and become part of this once-in-a-lifetime celebration.

For two and a half centuries, our great nation has stood as a beacon of freedom, resilience, and boundless opportunity.  Our journey certainly has not been perfect but we have always been united by the shared belief that tomorrow can be better than today.

On July 4, 2026, as we celebrate this incredible milestone, our thoughts should turn to the everyday courage and resilience that has defined the story of our country.  No, we are not built on perfection, more on the enduring promise of "We the People". Take time to honor all those who have sacrificed and worked to preserve our freedoms. We must recommit ourselves in working to build a more united and compassionate future for everyone.

                                    Happy 250th Birthday, America!

Patty Sparano, Corresponding Secretary

Kent Rod and Gun Club, Inc.

On July 4, years of independence. “With a single sheet of parchment and 56 signatures, America began the greatest political journey in human history,” said President Trump of this momentous anniversary.

Always Remember

 

On this Memorial Day, we must always pause to both remember and honor the brave men and women who have given their lives in service to our country.  Their sacrifice is the reason we enjoy the freedoms we have today.

From the Officers, Directors and Membership of the Kent Rod and Gun Club, thank you to each hero who made the ultimate sacrifice.  And, to the families who carry their legacy forward, we are forever grateful.

We wish everyone a meaningful and safe Memorial Day.

A New Year's Welcome and Appreciation

 

We've experienced several years where many of us have looked back with relief to all that was ending, and looked forward with great hope, to all we hoped would take place as a new year began. There is a great deal of positivity that 2026 will be a turning point in our country, on many levels.

Our club now begins its 78th year as a pivotal sportsman's entity in our Putnam County community and we are beyond proud of our accomplishments and dedication as an environmentally-focused sporting club.  We make every effort to be a good neighbor to local residents in our immediate area and to support various support efforts run by Putnam organizations which support local residents in need as well as organizations who support our veterans and public servants.

None of this would be possible without the efforts and commitment of our club members, many who go above and beyond the basic membership role and distinguish themselves apart from just attendance but by being proactive in helping to support our club's mission, improve its operations and foster community among our membership.  Without these core members, clubs such as ours would struggle to execute events, manage administrative tasks, or even survive. Any club or organization is only as strong as its most engaged members.

As this year comes to an end, we recognize the contributions of these dedicated individuals in our club, we applaud and appreciate their efforts.

The Executive Officers and Directors from our Board of Directors extend wishes to our club members, their families, club friends and our Putnam community, for a Happy and Healthy New Year.

Michael Thomas, President

Bob Woodstead, Vice President

John Pecora, Treasurer

Michael Bartolotti, Recording Secretary

Patty Sparano, Corresponding Secretary

End of Watch, Sheriff Kevin McConville

August 22, 2025

Early this morning, board members of the Kent Rod and Gun Club were advised of the passing of someone who has been much more than a friend to our club as well as to residents of Putnam County.  Sheriff Kevin McConville was called home for his final duty after dedicating his life to serving and protecting others.  Our community was no exception to his endless efforts.  

For decades, Kevin was a steady hand in law enforcement, a calming voice and a shining example of what it means to wear the badge with honor and integrity. He faced his illness with the same quiet strength he brought to every challenge and never stopped thinking of his family as well as all who were under his command.  He led with ethical principles, fought with dignity and lived his life with purpose, always embodying the very best of his chosen profession.

Aside from his leadership, he will be remembered for the compassion he showed to everyone he met.  Kevin was a pillar of this community, a friend to so many, and a hero to all. 

                                                          

Sheriff Kevin McConville, your end of watch is complete.  Rest easy, brother.  

Spring 2025

 

     

SPRING 2025

It wasn't that long ago that we welcomed in a new year and prepared for the many changes that would come along.  Spring has finally arrived and all that has taken place so far, well, it's been interesting, to say the least! 

A lot of positive changes are in motion for our club this year and we are looking forward to the opening of our new Trap House, complete with our new Clay Thrower, thanks to the efforts of several board and club members who have put great effort into updating this facility.

June will be the start of our Summer Fishing Contest, open to all club member children and families.  There's nothing better than having the kids put down their iPads, phones and other devices and get them out fishing!  This summer-long contest will allow for many terrific fishing opportunities.  Rules and additional information will go out to all club members for this fun contest.

Two big work events will take place in the months ahead which will allow club members to get their required work hour commitment in and contribute to the maintenance of club grounds, ranges and facilities.

One big club event of the summer season will be our Friends & Family BBQ on August 2nd.  Always a great gathering of club members, family and many friends, who enjoy an outstanding barbeque put together by several club "chefs".  One highlight of the day is our Annual Food Throwdown Competition where club members compete for the best-of-the-best with bringing a specific food item to the judging table.  Winners get a custom trophy and bragging rights for the year ahead!

The best part about the Kent Rod & Gun Club is the teamwork behind various club improvement projects with the goal to keep club facilities updated for the benefit of our membership.  It's all about volunteer work and those club members who never hesitate to give their time, effort and talent, with jobs needing to be done are what keeps this club always moving in a positive direction. 

We continue to look forward to endless possibilities as this year continues to roll along!

Michael Thomas, President

Board of Directors

Kent Rod & Gun Club

 

As we step into the fresh start of a new year, we pause to reflect on the incredible moments we shared as a club in 2024 and look ahead to the exciting possibilities that lie ahead in 2025.

The Kent Rod and Gun Club is more than just a space to gather, it is a community built on shared passion, support, a commitment to growth and, most of all, member teamwork which is key for our organization. Members of this club have played a vital role in shaping and improving our atmosphere and facilities.  In addition, we have been proud to be a long-established part of the Putnam County community for the past seventy-seven years.

In the year ahead, we will work to find ways to use our collective strength to make a positive impact in our community, whether through volunteer initiatives or charitable giving.

We look forward to making 2025 remarkable!

Michael Thomas, President

Board of Directors

Kent Rod and Gun Club