January, 2026
Hello, All!
Here we are, 2026… What should we expect for this year as a club and community? My fondest hope is for us all to stay healthy and active, to continue in our compassionate care of our community and neighbors, and to continue finding ways to make a difference. As of 11/30 we had distributed $48,300 in grants and scholarships. Treasurer Pete will give a more detailed review of YTD numbers at an upcoming club assembly.
Karl and I had the opportunity to attend many holiday parties and dinners. One part time owner exclaimed, “Oh, I love Rotary! I was part of my local club when I was younger. I understand how important their work is.” Channeling my inner Tom Emory, my response was, “Thank you, did you get your Rotary Restaurant Raffle ticket yet??” (and yes, she had!).
Speaking of members, I am thrilled with our recent membership bump, making us well on our way to my goal of 13 new members by June 30. Linda will share more about our new members in her news section. If you see someone new at a meeting, please introduce yourself, and please wear your name tag!
Sadly, along with Gary Plewak’s wife, Fran, we lost Mike Bridgewater, but man, what a graceful and humbling route he chose to leave this life for the next. May we all be so blessed to find peace in our own journeys whenever and wherever they take us and as you go about your days, please keep in your thoughts, both the Bridgewater and Plewak's families.
Finally, Karl and I are now hosting Emil, our Rotary Exchange Student from Sweden. Many of you got the chance to meet him at the awesome holiday party on 12/17 (thank you, Emily Shea, Linda Levin and Jane Macan!). He will come to our breakfast meetings so you may have a chance to chat further.
Happy New Year, everyone!
Susan Klein, President