Rotary President Michelle Jones called the meeting to order, led the Pledge of Allegiance, and asked President Elect Caitlin O’Reilly to lead us in the Star-Spangled Banner. Sharon Hamilton provided the invocation.
Caitlin O’Reilly introduced the guests, which included Stacey Otte and Eric Demangate (CEO of Roger Tory Peterson Institute and spouse, respectively), Guest of Chris Anderson. She also welcomed Jan, our exchange student, and Sophia (who will be our 2026-27 out-bound student). Emily Cama also thanked all Rotarians who have supported Sophia's fundraising efforts for the outbound program, including those who purchased items from her back sale. She also clarified that any Rotarian is also welcome to donate any amount of their choosing to support Sophia, as the club is asked to provide a $1000 match to the fundraising that Sophia is also doing on her own. The Club board has agreed to provide $500 in funds toward the effort, so individuals are asked to donate the remaining balance.
Joni Blackman announced the March birthday celebrants - Doug Conroe, Cheri Krull, Pat Kinney, and Gail Dunos. Joni also reminded all Rotarians about the importance of donating to the Foundation and how it can be done easily via the Rotary website.
Brandon ODell announced that the winner of the 50/50. This week it was Jason Sample, who gave all proceeds back to the organization.
Sergeant-at-Arms Doug Conroe asked trivia questions based on the latest issue of Rotary International magazine, and fined those who could not answer correctly. His questions included what is Abraham Lincoln known as, when it comes to Rotary? (A: Considered the first Rotarian); What was the theme for March? (A: Water and Sanitary Hygiene).
Happy Bucks:
Happy Bucks were paid by Michelle Jones, Emily Cama, Caitlyn O'Reilly, Misti Allen Ruthin Lundin, Mike Roberts, and David Troxel.
Club Service:
Max Eimiller announced that the Rotary Club’s summer Golf Tournament at Moon Brook Country Club will be July 13. Anyone interested in creating a team, sponsoring a hole, getting baskets for the raffle, should contact him directly.
Ruth Lundin gave an update on the Coldest Night of the Year Walk, benefiting the YWCA’s Empower Her Housing. This is a comprehensive housing initiative designed to meet women and families
where they are. Team Rotary had over 30 peoples supporting our walkers by donating over $1,250. Overall, a total of $25,000 was raised for the YWCA.
Caitlin also shared details about sponsoring new members, and the important role all Rotarians have in bringing in and introducing prospective new members to the club.
Emily Cama provided details on the annual FARCH event. She is inviting members to prepare for Spring by making a beautiful clay bird house at Pearl City Clay House. The cost is $25 per person for all activity materials. Space is limited to 20 guests to participate in making clay bird houses, so participants are asked to sign up in advance, using the email she had sent out this week.
Finally, Michelle announced that the club's Fundraising Committee is working on an event for June that will focus on a Rubber Duck Race and will also likely tie-in with other local events also scheduled for the week. She is asking for members to join the committee and help plan the event.
Michelle thanked everyone for attending. The meeting was adjourned and the rest of the hour was spent mixing and networking.
