March Newsletter

Dear Fellow MRV Rotarians,

The sap is starting to flow, and soon steam will rise from the sugarhouses — a sure sign that spring is on its way!

As we shake off winter, I encourage you to attend a membership meeting. Our club thrives on the energy, ideas, and camaraderie of its members, and your participation helps us make a meaningful impact. Whether it’s a speaker event, a new member introduction, or a social gathering, your presence strengthens our Rotary community. We’ve also added a monthly lunch meeting at Lawson’s — a great opportunity to connect in a casual setting. A big thank you to Linda Levin for coordinating our lunches and to Karen Winchell for bringing in engaging and inspiring speakers month after month!

Service is at the heart of Rotary, and our community’s need for emergency preparedness has never been clearer. After the past two years of flooding, it's critical that we help establish reliable emergency shelters and strengthen volunteer efforts in the Valley. Pete Colgan is leading our club’s response — if you’re interested in getting involved, please reach out to him. Your help can make a real difference in keeping our community safe.

This month also highlights one of Rotary International’s key initiatives: Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH). Millions of people around the world still lack access to clean water and proper sanitation, impacting health, education, and economic stability. By supporting The Rotary Foundation, we can fund sustainable WASH projects that change lives. If you’d like to contribute or learn more, please connect with our Foundation Chair, Dave Ellison.

Thank you all for your continued energy, service, and support. I’m looking forward to seeing you at an upcoming meeting or event — together, we make a positive impact here in the Mad River Valley and beyond.

Wishing you all a wonderful March!

Mike