The first meeting of the year started with Kristine Reyes, our newest member of the Club with the Pledge of Allegiance. The thought of the day was provided by Steve Willhite and the four-way test was recited perfectly by Kian Ameli.
A moment of silence was taken for Concord Rotary President-Elect Jerry Varcak who passed away. Visiting guest included Michael Pounds, from Community Compassion Connections invited by Steve Willhite, Judith Parker, Development Director with the Michael Chavez Center by Eric Maldonado and Edi’s grandson, Cody. Visiting Rotarians included Jack Mashi, Berkley Rotary Club and our speaker John Fenoglio, Walnut Creek Rotary.
Many happy dollars flowed in celebration of the new-year including a donation from Momentum Fitness for $150.00 from a Fundraiser Kian did for Burkina Faso. Kathy did a wonderful presentation to the club members from the children at Cambridge Community Center thanking Santa and our Club for the toys and books.
John Fenolgio, Scout Executive and CEO of the Mt. Diablo Silverado Council shared the wonderful things the Scouts are doing including the many fun events and activities they have in store for this year. They serve over 21,000 youth throughout 5 counties. Additionally, in June they will have a fundraiser called “over the edge” which caught many of our members attention. Who’s going over the cliff? Someone suggested the President, I say the Past-President!
Our next meeting, January 15, Dennis Rojas from the Veterans Administration Employer Services will be our guest speaker.
Mark your Calendar for the next big events: Concord Chamber Mixer hosted by our Rotary Club, Concord and Clayton Valley/Concord Sunrise on February 6th and our guest Speaker Senator Mark DeSaulnier on March 5th as we host a joint meeting with the Concord Rotary Club.