Woodland Rotary - Photos - Annual

NOTE: TO SHOW THE MOST RECENT STORIES ON TOP OF THIS PAGE, STORIES ARE LISTED HERE IN REVERSE CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER (MOST RECENT ON TOP, EARLIER DATES BELOW).

President Dan Demoted!

President Dan Stroski was officially demoted at the Hotel Woodland on June 28, 2022. Immediate Past President Tabb Randolph led the event and presented incoming Club President Shawn Seyk and President-elect Karl Diekman with their new badges.

Thank you Dan Stroski for your leadership this year!

June 21st Meeting

President Dan Stroski led his last Club meeting today, completing his year as President. Dan welcomed our own Gary Wirth as the speaker today, who gave us a program on the "Natural Wines of Georgia", the former Soviet Union Republic. Mark Ullrich introduced his wife Audre who was his guest today. Other guests today (not pictured) included Pat Armstrong, guest of Gary Wirth and Lorie Haarberg, guest of her husband Kevin Haarberg.

President-elect Shawn Seyk was glad to be home after an eventful trip to the Rotary International Convention in Houston earlier this month. He contracted COVID on a plane, spent days in quarantining in a hotel, and then had to drive back to California in 3.5 days. Ernie Hodges and wife Kay will celebrate 41 years of marriage on June 27 (Springfield VA). Don Huff III was in charge of Recognition today, asking questions about Father's Day.

Since he is not growing rice this year, Blair Voelz had the time to go fishing on Father's Day in Mt. Shasta City this year. Gary Wegener was happy he traveled to Eugene OR to see his granddaughter graduate. Our newest member, Mark Pemberton, spent Father's Day skate boarding in Dixon with his 24 and 27 year-old kids. Mark faceplanted early on and ended up watching his kids. Brian Dwyer spent 13 hours on Father's Day on a baseball field where he witnessed his son hitting his first Grand Slam home run.

Rest In Peace - Marc Faye

1932-2022

We are sad to learn of the passing of Marc Faye on June 15, 2022. Marc, a Paul Harris Fellow, was a member of the Club for over 63 years, maintaining 100% attendance, and served as the Club's President in 1976-77. Our thoughts are with Gerda Faye and the family.

View Marc Faye Obituary

Meet our New Member -

Mark Pemberton

Mark Pemberton, S.E. and Principal Engineer/CEO of Pemberton Engineering Inc. of Woodland was installed as a new member of the Club on June 14, 2022 by President Dan Stroski and sponsor Steve Venables. At our request, Mark provided us the following bio. If you haven't already done so, take a moment to introduce yourself to Mark when you meet and welcome her to the Club.

Mark Pemberton was born in Monterey, California in 1969. Mark graduated high school in Ojai, California in 1987. During his years in high school he enjoyed creating artwork of all types including painting, drawing, and sculpting. Mark has always excelled in mathematics which drew him towards his engineering studies at California State University at Chico, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering. Mark received his Professional Engineering license in 1998 while working at a small engineering firm (Mike Smith Engineering) in Lodi. He subsequently received his Structural Engineering title in 2003 while working at a much larger firm (Lionakus Beaumont) in Sacramento.

Mark started his own engineering firm in Davis as a sole proprietorship in 2003 providing engineering services for commercial and residential projects throughout the Sacramento Valley. His company, Pemberton Engineering, was incorporated in 2020.

Mark enjoys building things at his home in Wild Wings, snowboarding, listening to punk rock music, and watching science related documentaries about the universe. He also enjoys spending time in Kauai each year where he hopes to someday retire. Mark met his wife Jessica shortly before graduating college and fell in love immediately. They were engaged within two weeks and have been happily married now for 28 years. Mark and Jessica have four sons: Tim, Basil, Darrel, and Dan.

Mark and Jessica purchased a building in Woodland that was originally built in 1893 as a pair of small homes, which were joined and repurposed as a commercial building in 1973. This building has since been extensively remodeled and is now the new home of Pemberton Engineering. Mark Pemberton enjoys being close to downtown Woodland and looks forward to helping its people and improving the community.

June 14th Meeting

Short-timer President Dan Stroski got us going today with the installation of a new Club member, Mark Pemberton, P.E., S.E.. Mark is the Owner & CEO of Pemberton Engineering Inc. who have provided local residents and businesses with structural engineering services for more than 20 years. Pemberton Engineering is located at 312 Walnut Street in Woodland (https://www.pembertonengineering.com/). Joining Mark and Dan are sponsor Steve Venables and Assistant District Governor (District 5160) Woody Fridae.

Lisa (Martinez) Dunham 'rang the bell' today after returning from an absense for some surgery. Lisa paid up for her birthday (May 7), her 17th wedding anniversary (June 4) with husband Larry Dunham, and informed us she is now going by her husband's last name, Dunham. Also returning from an absense, Gary Wirth received his Paul Harris +3 pin from President Dan Stroski in recognition for Gary's significant financial contributions to the Rotary Foundation. Today was Tony Delevati's 63rd birthday (Woodland), so he got "Happy Birthday" sung to him by the Club. Kevin Haarberg led today's Recognition with questions related to Flag Day.

Derrek Kaff was happy he had the chance to go to Quantico VA last week to witness Woodland Police Department Sergeant Dallas Hyde graduate from the 282nd session of the FBI National Academy. One of the pictures shows Sergeant Hyde receiving his certification from FBI Director Christopher Wray.

Meet our New Member - Gena Bravo

Gena Bravo, MSN, RN, HACP and Woodland Memorial Hospital CEO was installed as a new member of the Club on March 15, 2022 by President Dan Stroski and sponsor Mike Chandler. At our request, Gena provided us the following bio. If you haven't already done so, take a moment to introduce yourself to Gena when you meet and welcome her to the Club.

Gena Bravo is an innovative healthcare leader with over 20 years of clinical and leadership expertise. Woodland Memorial Hospital CEO, Gena brings a proven record of success in hospital operations. She helps deliver high-quality care – and works to cultivate her passion for patient care among her staff.

Prior to arriving at the Woodland facility, Gena served as a longtime nursing leader at Mercy General Hospital. Throughout her career, she has excelled in advocating excellence, embracing strategic challenges, while developing and implementing innovative quality initiatives.

A Southern California native, Gena earned both her Bachelor and Master of Nursing degrees from the University of San Francisco.

In her spare time, Gena enjoys watching baseball, spending time with her husband and kids, and staying active in local community service. She serves as a volunteer firefighter for the West Plainfield Fire Department in Davis. Gena serves as a trustee on the Woodland Healthcare Foundation Board and as a Board Commissioner for Partnership Healthplan of California. Gena was recognized by the Honorable John Garamendi of California as a 2021 Woman of the Year for her service to the Yolo County community during the pandemic.

2022 Rotary Scholarships

Shawn Seyk reports the Woodland Rotary Endowment Scholarships for 2022 have been awarded to co-valedictorians Paulina Garcia and Guadalupe Cordova of Woodland High School who ended with identical grade point averages. The Endowment Board elected to honor each student with a full scholarship. We know Paulina plans to attend UC Berkeley in the Fall.

The scholarship at Pioneer High School went to valedictorian Oscar Cooper Stern. We understand Oscar plans to attend UCLA in the Fall.

he Endowment scholarship is $6,000 to each student, payable over four years.

June 7th Meeting

President Dan Stroski is feeling like a short timer as he welcomed a good crowd to the first meeting of his final month in office. It was Election Day and Dan encouraged everyone to vote. Foundation Chair Tom Schwarzgruber presented Tom LaBrie with his Paul Harris +4 pin, recognizing his significant financial contributions to the Rotary Foundation. Don Huff Jr. will be celebrating his 96th birthday on Jun 9.

Brian Dwyer introduced his guest, Gregg Kowes, Co-owner, Woodland-Davis Termite & Pest Control and a prospective new member of the Club. Gregg grew up in Woodland and was a local star for Woodland High School baseball. Today Gregg is actively involved in local youth sports. President Dan thanked Nick Roncoroni for stepping in at the last minute to prepare the Splinter for today. Steve Venables looked pretty lonely as he led today's Rotary Grace.

Gary Bunch led Recognition again today. Dena Lawrence was happy to learn Baby Lawrence (her second child) is expected to make its world premiere via a planned c-section on July 19th. At the request of Gary Bunch, Mike Russell described the two BIG hits he had recently at the Yolo Fliers Club where he got on the par five 6th green in two shots. No, he missed the putt for eagle. Christian Sherrill thanked Don Huff III for the delicious dinner Don put on for 12 people at Simon's Restaurant in Sacramento recently, a Dinner Auction purchase from some years back.

Unfortunately, our program speaker was unable to attend today, so President Dan concluded the meeting early.

May 31st Meeting

Foundation Chair Tom Schwarzgruber presents Barbara Sonin with her Paul Harris +2 pin recognizing her significant financial contributions to the Rotary Foundation. Don Huff III 'rang the bell' for his recent trips to Tahoe, Kona and then back to Tahoe. Rotarian Bill Mitchell, Past District Governor in Albuquerque NM, paid us a visit today. Blair Voelz expressed his gratitude to the club for its support in getting the funding set for Phase Two of the Kenya WASH project.

Dena Lawrence encouraged all Club members to sign a petition to better control access to Woodland Joint Unified Schools. (Petition · Strengthen Security at all WJUSD/Woodland Schools · Change.org?) Jim McGibbon married his wife Susie on June 1, 1968, one day after finishing his final exams...which gave him a very good reason to delegate all the preparations. Scott Johnston has already had enough of Woodland and is heading to Incline Village.

Soon-to-be President Shawn Seyk presented plaques to honor members and businesses who sponsored the 2022 Woodland Rotary Dinner Auction - Aniek Pflager/Van Beurden Insurance; Mark Ullrich/Ullrich Delevati CPAs; Blair Voelz/SB Voelz Farming; and Tabb Randolph/WSR Insurance.

Jacquenette Michael, Program Director, Stanford Sierra Youth & Families, was our guest speaker today providing us a program on 'Nurturing Permanent Connections and Empowering Families'. She was joined by colleague Jorge Cruz-Sanchez, Outreach Coordinator with Stanford Sierra Youth & Families.

May 24th Meeting

President Dan Stroski, counting the days before his June 28th Demotion, got us started today. Tony Delevati introduced Taryn Cadena, a 2021-22 Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholar at the University of Plymouth in the United Kingdom. Taryn is a graduate of Woodland High School (2009) and UC Santa Cruz (2014). Our Club and Woodland Sunrise are her International sponsors. Rotary Foundation Chair Tom Schwarzgruber presents Blair Voelz with his Paul Harris (+2) pin in recognition of Blair's significant financial contributions to the Foundation.

Woodland Sunrise Rotarians Byron MacConnell, Don Sharp and Wayne Ginsburg visited today. With the pot at $640 and getting help from Tom Schwarzgruber, Mike Chandler still managed to drawn a free lunch.

Dick Hoppin made his successful debut in leading Recognition today, asking questions about legal challenges and their outcomes. Eric Zane, Mike Russell and Ernie Hodges were among his victims.

Woodland City Manager Ken Hiatt was our guest speaker today, presenting an overview of the many issues and project the City is addressing these days, including the Woodland Research and Technology Park in Southeast Woodland. Thanks to Derrek Kaff for arranging and introducing this informative program.

May 17th Meeting

President Dan Stroski presented Paul Harris Fellowship pins to Tom Schwarzgruber (+3), Tabb Randolph (+5), Les Engelmann (+3), and Mike Chandler (+7) with the thanks of the Club today in recognition of their extensive financial contributions to the Rotary Foundation. Steve Venables was the lone lead singer for Rotary Grace today. Rotarian Susan Lundquist (Luna Vista) visited us today. Steve Venables introduced his guest and prospective new Club member Mark Pemberton.

Under questioning from President Dan Stroski during today's Recognition, Marie Galbo could not recall Richard Dreyfuss' name in a picture from 'Jaws', Chuck Moore could not indentify Gene Kelly in a picture from 'Singin in the Rain', Tom Schwarzgruber could not identify Tim Holland in a picture of from 'Spider-Man: Homecoming'. Bob Nakken correctly identified Charlton Heston in a picture from 'Ben Hur'.

Yolo County District Attorney Jeff Reisig was our guest speaker today, providing us with a sobering report on the Fentanyl Crisis happening across the United States and here locally.

CDC Provisional Drug Overdose Death Counts

Rest In Peace -

Jim Taylor & Clancy Duppong

President Dan Stroski announced on May 3 two long-term Club members have recently passed away: Major General Jim Taylor (1931-22), USAF Retired; and Clancy Duppong (1936-2022). They will be missed.

Our thoughts are with the families of these fine Rotarians.

View Jim Taylor Obituary -

Funeral services for Jim Taylor scheduled for 11am on Saturday, June 4

at St. Lukes Episcopal Church, Woodland

View Clancy Duppong Obituary -

Obituary also viewable at Daily Democrat Obituaries.

Celebration of Life for Clancy Duppong to be scheduled.

May 10th Meeting

President Dan Stroski was at the helm of another well attended meeting today (Hey, where is your banner Mr. President???) . However, we only had one Rotary Grace lead singer. Marc Faye was looking a little lonely up there by himself.

WELCOME! Former Club member and current Yolo County District Attorney Jeff Reisig was President Dan's guest today. District 5160 Governor-elect Suzanne Bragdon (Fairfield-Suisun) paid us a visit today. Marie Galbo introduced her guest/friend Nikki Hamilton.

Immediate Past President Tabb Randolph announced the Demotion will take place at the Hotel Woodland (not Matchbook Winery) on Tuesday evening, June 28. Tabb also enjoyed a George Strait/Willie Nelson concert in Austin TX recently. Ernie Hodges celebrated his 75th birthday (Sevierville TN) on May 9. Dick Hoppin celebrated his 82nd birthday (Oakland) on May 6. Today was Blair Voelz's 72 birthday (Lansing MI), so he got the Happy Birthday song sung to him!

President-elect Shawn Seyk was proud of his girls soccer team despite their season ending with a playoff loss in Ripon over the weekend. The team did enjoy a trip to the SF Giants game this past Sunday. Shawn also reported the Endowment Board of Directors voted to award a special, third scholarship this year as Woodland High School has co-valedictorians. President Dan was happy to take his daughter Danielle to a Paul McCartney concert at the Oakland Arena over the weekend. Les Engelmann and wife Gail had a great, 3 week trip to Greece, Albania, Macedonia and elsewhere recently. Eric Zane was happy his nephew accepted an invitation to attend the United States Naval Academy. Jayne Williams thanked Club members for their support of her All Leaders Must Serve organization's successful Big Day of Giving Campaign last week. Jim Nolan led today's Recognition, and said he enjoyed the 50th anniversary of his wedding with Barbara (Turkey) on Mother's Day.

Yolo County Sheriff Tom Lopez was our guest speaker today, giving us a review of what's happening in the Sheriff's office.

Rotary Helps Shredathon

Marie Galbo, Brian Dwyer and President Dan Stroski helped the Shredathon event at Umpqua Bank on May 6. The event was sponsored by the Yolo County District Attorney's office to provide residents with a document shredding service free of charge.

Mystery Golf Travels to

Cypress Lakes Golf Course in Vacaville

The 2022 Rotary Mystery Golf Trip took about 50 members of the Sunrise and Noon Clubs, and some guests to the Cypress Lakes Golf Course in Vacaville on May 4. Many thanks to Chuck Santoni (Sunrise) and Chuck Maltese for arranging this great outing!

May 3rd Meeting

President Dan Stroski precided today and is starting the count the days until his demotion! Steve Venables introduced his guest Mark Pemberton today. Sunrise Rotarian Don Sharp visited today.

Eric Zane didn't get an early warning, but he and his wife Jennifer celebrated their 18th wedding anniversary (Woodland) on May 1st. Eric Sharp (Woodland) celebrated his 67th birthday (Woodland) on May 2nd. Christian Sherrill got an early warning on his 18th wedding anniversary with wife Holidae on May 8th.

Jim McGibbon was proud his grandson is one-half of the champion debate team for the State of New York. Kevin Haarberg had the Recognition duty today and asked questions about Mother's Day. Derrick Kaff attended the California Peace Officers' Memorial in Sacramento last Sunday and was honored to meet with the family of Natalie Corona, the Davis Police Officer killed in the line of duty in 2018. Marie Galbo was happy about winning the Winner's Choice Raffle, but admitted she and a friend had bought five raffle tickets to increase the odds.

Blair Voelz was happy the $76,000 Rotary Global Grant for Phase Two of the Kenya WASH project has been approved. Wendy Casas-Raviota was happy her brother found out after months of treatment, his cancer was now in remission. David Pinto was happy he and his wife Rebecca visited his 98 year old mother in Toronto recently; she even recognized him!!. Barbara Sonin was happy about the recent birth of a new granddaughter, Oakley; Barbara's eleventh grandchild. Ernie Hodges was happy his recovery is progressing and as he recently was able to stand up for his first shower since the injury.

Pressed into service early in his new Club membership, Eric Zane was our program speaker today. As Woodland's Fire Chief, Eric gave us a program on 'Emergency Communications and Yolo Alert'. Unfortunately Eric's presentation was cut short as a real life fire alarm went off about 15 minutes after he started. The room was evacuated and eventually the meeting was cut short. Apparently smoke in the laundry area of the Hotel has triggered the alarm. To our knowledge no one was harmed and there was little damage. Hopefully, we can convice Eric to resume his presentation another day.

April 26th Meeting

President-elect Shawn Seyk received deserved applause from a good crowd today, in recognition Saturday's successful 2022 Dinner Auction. Shawn thanked the many people involved in putting this event together and thanked the Club as a whole. While final accounting is not yet complete, Shawn believes the event raised over $50,000 for Woodland Girls Fastpitch Softball.

Jayne Williams introduced Maria Herrera, Board member with All Leaders Must Serve, as her guest today. Steve Venables introduced his guest, Mark Pemberton, Structural Engineer with Pemberton Engineering in Davis.

Eric Zane, City of Woodland Fire Chief, was inducted by President Dan Stroski as a new member of the Rotary Club of Woodland. Membership Chairman David Pinto introduced Eric to the Club.

Endowment President Tabb Randolph reported the Woodland Rotary Endowment Board has pledged $5,000 toward the Rotary Pavillion project being developed at the Woodland Regional Park. All Yolo County Rotary Clubs have now pledged financial support for this project. Jayne Williams fessed up to having a birthday on Apr 29 (Albuquerque NM). Chuck Maltese took charge of Recognition today asking questions about the Dinner Auction. Gary Bunch celebrated a birthday on Apr 21 (Woodland). Bob Nakken, who will turn 70 on Apr 27 (Woodland), received from Steve Venables a copy of a recent Sacramento Bee containing an extensive front page article about his daughter Alyssa.

Madilyn Louis, LCSW, and Robert Villarreal, LMFT, with Yolo County Health and Human Services were our guest speakers today, giving us a presentation on 'Mental Health Corresponding with Woodland Police Officers.' Thanks go to Derrek Kaff for arranging and introducing this interesting program.

April 12th Meeting

President Dan Stroski presided over a full house today. Jim Nolan helped himself to today's buffet lunch of roast turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, mixed vegetables and gravy - Thanksgiving in April!

Jayne Williams along with Simone Garbo (WHS Interact Student Advisor & daughter-in-law of our own Marie Galbo), introduced eight members of the Woodland High School Interact Club (sponsored by our Club) who visited us today. Marc Faye introduced his guest & son Olen Faye. Kris Kristensen introduced guest & prospective new member Eric Zane. Steve Venables introduced his guest & son Skyler Venables.

Foundation Chair Tom Schwarzgruber presents Gary Wegener with his 7th Paul Harris Fellowship pin in recognition of Gary's recent $1000 contribution to Rotary's Ukraine Relief Fund.

Lots of birthdays and anniversaries today! Gena Bravo got an early warning for her 7th wedding anniversary (Woodland) with husband Scott Bravo coming up Apr 24. George Burger 'rang the bell' for his '29th anniversary of his 50th birthday' on Apr 9 (Phoenix AZ). Chuck Maltese celebrated his 82nd birthday on Apr 8 (Detroit MI). Roger Kohlmeier also celebrated his 82nd birthday on Apr 8 (Los Angeles). Steve Venables was pretty sure he and wife Lydia will be celebrating their 43rd wedding anniversary (Carson City NV) on Apr 15.

President-elect Shawn Seyk reported preparations for April 23rd's Dinner Auction are well underway and he is feeling optimistic about reaching his goal of raising $50,000 at the event benefitting the Woodland Girls Fastpitch Softball Program. Don Huff III was happy a bear got into his truck at Lake Tabhoe over the weekend, but did no damage. Tabb Randolph was happy he finally returned to Woodland from Truckee yesterday after snow and traffic prevented his first try. And, with the pot at $483 and 15 cards remaining, Tabb also managed to draw a free lunch. Jayne Williams led her first Recognition session for the Club today, asking questions about our heros growing up.

Cecilia Lopez, Program Manager, Yolo County Children's Advocacy Center - Multi-Disciplinary Interview Center (MDIC), was our guest program speaker today giving us a program of the work they do under the coordination of the Yolo County District Attorney's office to assist local children who are victims of sexual & physical abuse, trafficking, and witnesses to violent crimes. Thanks to Derrek Kaff for arranging for and introducing this important program.

City Hall Flag Pole Dedication

President Dan Stroski presents Woodland City Council member Rich Lansburgh with the plaque and check for the new flag pole in front of City Hall on April 8. This was a gift to the City of Woodland by the Rotary Club of Woodland and the Woodland Rotary Endowment in celebration of the City's 150th Anniversary. Other Club members attending included David Pinto, Marie Galbo, President-elect Shawn Seyk, Derrek Kaff, Lori Ross & Kris Kristensen.

April 5th Meeting

President Dan Stroski led another good size crowd at today's meeting. We even got three singers - Jim McGibbon, Marc Faye and Steve Venables - to lead us in the Rotary Grace today. Derrek Kaff introduced guest, and propective new member Woodland Fire Chief Eric Zane.

The familiar face of Scott Johnston was back in the fold today after spending the last 5 months in Palm Desert. Scott 'rang the bell' for the occasion. Woodland Sunrise Rotarian Don Sharp joined us today. Mike Russell got an early warning on his 13th wedding anniversary with wife Kristen coming up on Apr 11. Steve Venables is turning 80 years young tomorrow, Apr 6 (Visalia). Mark Ullrich introduced his guest, Josh Yarbrough, Plant Manager for Pacific Coast Producers.

With just 16 cards left, Marie Galbo managed to find a free lunch. Nick Roncoroni is trying to find buyers for the Winner's Choice Raffle Tickets. Each member is expected to purchase or sell at least two tickets! Clyde Brooker took the lead on Recognition today, first making sure he stayed in the good graces or our resident Sicilian Chuck Maltese. Bob Nakken was happy Spring Training is coming to an end; he gets to see his daughter Alyssa again this Friday. Brian Dwyer was proud of his twelve year old son who made a great 'Brandon Crawford-like' play to get two outs in a recent Little League contest. President-elect Shawn Seyk is feeling pretty confident we arrangements are coming together for a successfule Dinner Auction on Saturday, April 23.

Gary Bunch was happy new blood is coming to the Recognition Committee as Yvette Roy, Jayne Williams, Jim McGibbon and Dick Hoppin have agreed to sign up. Jim McGibbon told us his eldest son recently celebrated his 50th birthday, and this triggered happy memories as Jim was the doctor who delivered him. Roger Kohlmeier extended greetings to the Club from Ernie Hodges who was unable to attend. Ernie was apparently elated at the University of North Carolina's recent good showing in the NCAA Men's Basketball tournament that he is pledging to 'ring the bell' when he returns to the Club.

Due to audio problems, we were unable to have our guest speaker who was appearing virtually, give her presentation. As a result, President Dan Stroski adjourned the meeting early.

March 29th Meeting

President Dan Stroski was back at the helm today where he welcomed a good sized audience. Dan was away last week tending to his mother. Dan also led Recognition today, which included the above question from the latest Rotary magazine. Yvette Roy guessed Monaco, which was close to the right answer: Monte Carlo.

Dena Lawrence returned after traveling to Panama for Microsoft. Dena and her son are getting ready to take a trip to Hawaii prior to the birth of her second child this summer. Nick Roncoroni is distributing Winners Choice Raffle tickets members for the Dinner Auction. Each member needs to purchase or sell at least two of the $100 tickets. Tabb Randolph reported our Demotion party this year will take place Tuesday, June 28 at the Matchbook Winery outside of Zamora. Details of the Demotion, where President Dan will end his reign are still being worked out. President-elect Shawn Seyk reminded us of our Dinner Auction coming up Saturday, April 23, but also talked about the success this season of the girls soccer team he is coaching.

Our own Jayne Williams was today's program speaker , giving us an update on what is happening with the Woodland High School Interact Club which is sponsored by our Club with the assistance of Jayne and Gary Wegener. Another connection with Woodland Rotary is the Interact Club's Student Advisor, Simone Galbo, who is the daughter-in-law of our own Marie Galbo. This year's Interact Club is clearly the most active group of any we have sponsored in recent years. Thank you Jayne & Gary!

2022 Woodland Rotary

Dinner Auction

Under the leadership of President-elect Shawn Seyk, preparations are underway for our 2022 Dinner Auction on Saturday, April 23 at the California Agricultural Museum. Event proceeds benefit

Woodland Girls Fastpitch Softball.

REGISTER FOR DINNER TICKETS

Members: If you purchased tickets with your annual dues - you still need to go to the Eventbrite website (use link below) and select TICKETS - then put in the number 4 next to the DINNER TICKET PRE PAID option. Fill in your name so we can confirm you have paid and are good to go!

Others: Want to buy dinner tickets? Register on the Eventbrite website (link below) to register and purchase.

Contact David Pinto with related questions.

www.eventbrite.com/e/woodland-rotary-annual-dinner-auction-2022-tickets-292950080577

WINNER'S CHOICE RAFFLE

Nick Roncoroni has tickets for the big raffle. $100 per ticket. Each member is asked to sell at least two tickets.

Winner gets the following Trip Options - 5 nights with roundtrip airfare from Sacramento, and rental car included at:

Cabo San Lucas - Grand Fiesta Americana All Inclusive Resort

Maui - Aston Kaanapali Shores

New Orleans - Royal Sonesta

Nashville - OpryLand Hotel

or $3,000 cash

SPONSORSHIPS

Mark Ullrich and Roger Kohlmeier are seeking sponsorships for the Dinner Auctions. Sponsorship Tiers:

Gold - $2500

Silver - $1000

Bronze - $500

Business Card - $250

For details, please complete registration form

and submit to Mark or Roger.

AUCTION DONATIONS

Blair Voelz and Brian Dwyer are looking for donations of oral and silent auction items to be offered during the event.

WHEELBARREL OF WINE

Jeff Burger is asking each Club member to donate two bottles of good quality wine (minimum $20 value each). Bring them either to a Tuesday Club meeting or to Jeff's office -

REMAX at 927 Main Street.

Volunteers also needed for SET UP and CLEAN UP.

Contact Shawn Seyk if you can help.

Meet our New Member - Dena Lawrence

Dena Lawrence joined the Noon Club on April 20, 2021 after transferring from Woodland Sunrise. Dena is a Pre-Sales Portfolio Manager for Microsoft. After a little delay, Dena provided us the following bio at our request. If you haven't already done so, take a moment to introduce yourself to Dena when you meet and welcome her to the Club.

Born in Sacramento, Dena grew up in Woodland and graduated from WHS in 2000. She returned to Woodland after spending 8 years in Southern and Central California, as well as nearly a decade in Dublin, Ireland. While in Ireland she completed her Master’s Degree in Organisational Behaviour at University College Dublin’s Smurfit Graduate School of Business. Shortly after graduation, Dena began her career with Microsoft, working various roles in software consulting. She spent much of her free time playing co-ed Tag Rugby or hiking the expansive, brilliant green outdoors. Aside from her consulting work with Microsoft during that time, Dena made a name for herself with her extensive activism for LGBT+ inclusion and equality and was named Ireland's LGBT Role Model of the Year in 2015!

Since returning to Woodland, Dena continues to work with Microsoft where she manages a multi-million dollar portfolio of Microsoft technology consulting services opportunities in the US State and Local Government market, where she specializes in Public Safety and Justice motions to harness technology to drive improvements in justice systems across the US.

In addition, Dena is a proud single mother to a bubbly, rambunctious toddler and is expecting her 2^nd child this summer.

She joined Woodland Sunrise Rotary to meet other service-oriented folks in the area and find opportunities to continue to give back to her community.

March 22nd Meeting

Les Engelmann, who led the Pledge of Allegiance, also won a free lunch today. Acting President Kris Kristensen (President Dan was away tending to the health of his mother) presents a Paul Harris Fellowship +2 pin to Ernie Hodges in recognition of his extensive financial support of the Rotary Foundation. Olen Faye was the guest of his father Marc Faye. Woodland Fire Chief Eric Zane, a potential new Club member, was the guest of Derrek Kaff.

Lisa Martinez, who delivered Meals on Wheels last week representing the Club, learned the first meeting of the Rotary Club of Woodland took place in 1926, not 1851 as she guessed (we really must look old!!). Lori Ross rang the bell in honor of her mother, Diana Ross, who recently passed away. Kevin Haarberg looked tanned and fit returning from a two week vacation in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Jeff Burger thanked those who have already donated two bottles of wine for the Auction (one wheelbarrow is already filled!), and encouraged everyone else to also do so. Bring them to the next meeting or to Jeff's office - REMAX Woodland at 927 Main Street.

Tabb Randolph was back from his annual trek to Scottsdale AZ to see Spring Training. Thanks to the strike, he left before the day before it started. Derrek Kaff enjoyed a trip to San Diego over the weekend to visit his son who is attending San Diego State. Blair Voelz had a great vacation cruising the Hawaiian Islands. Eric Sharp was proud of his granddaughter as she was team MVP and all League in Soccer for Woodland Christian.

Henry Gascon, Director of Program and Policy, United Way of California, appearing virtually, was our guest speaker today, giving us a presentation on the 'The Real Cost Measure of Living in California 2021'. To learn more about United Way's 'The Real Cost Measure of Living in California 2021' visit this link:

Struggling to Move Up: The Real Cost Measure in California 2021

Thank you to Lori Ross who arranged for and introduced this important program.

Senior BBQ Postponed to September

The Club's 2022 Senior BBQ, which is traditionally held in the Spring at Rotary Park has been postponed by the Club's Board of Directors until September.

Rest in Peace - Marilyn Faye

We are sad to learn that Marilyn Faye, widow of long-time Woodland Rotarian Peter Faye, passed away on March 12. Marilyn is seen above with her son, Peter Faye, Jr., at the Club's 2015 Dinner Auction accepting an award from the Club honoring her husband. Our thoughts are with the family.

March 15th Meeting

President Dan Stroski once again called our meeting to order.

Gena Bravo, RN and President & CEO of Woodland Healthcare, was installed as a member of our Club today. Sponsor Mike Chandler introduced Gena and President Dan welcomed her to the Club.

The Club's bell was struck often today as Gary Wegener and wife Joanie made a $1,000 contribution to Rotary's Ukraine's Relief fund. Marc Faye also made a $1,000 contribution to Rotary in noting his 90th birthday on Mar 12.

David Pinto reminded the Club we are still in a membership drive and members are encouraged to bring guests to Club meetings. In addition, if you have extra guests you can bring to the Club's 2022 Dinner Auction on April 23 we can probably get you some free dinner tickets (in addition the four tickets each member has already purchased) for them. Contact David for the tickets. Chuck Maltese announced signups for the 2022 Rotary Mystery Golf Trip on Wednesday, May 4, are currently being accepted. $100 per player. Only 52 players will be accepted. Complete the attached signup form and return it to Chuck @ icmaltese@yahoo.com . Tom Schwarzgruber introduced his guest today, Stuart Snyder. Secretary Aniek Pflager announced the 2022 Rotary Senior BBQ at Rotary Park is being postponed until September.

Rich Marovich, Retired Putah Creek Streamkeeper, was our guest speaker today giving us a program on Stewardship efforts in the Putah Creek Watershed. He was joined by Don Morrill, Davis Sunrise Rotary, who discussed Rotary's involvement in these efforts.

Meet Our New Member -

Mike Russell

Mike Russell was inducted as a new member of Club member on March 8, 2022. He is an Financial Manager and General Partner in Edward Jones with his office in Woodland. Mike was sponsored by Kris Kristensen. Mike provided us with the following bio at our request. Take a moment to introduce yourself to Mike when you meet and welcome him to the Club.

I've always had a passion to work hard and to always do my best. I was raised in a small town in the Ozarks (Ellington MO) with a baseball mitt in one hand and a fishing pole in the other. Hard work paid off with both. Post high school, baseball took me to St. Louis MO. I earned my bachelors degree in finance from the University of Missouri-St. Louis. During my time at UMSL, I was introduced to Edward Jones.

I went to work with Edward Jones at the beginning of 2008. (Perfect timing!) I worked in the firm's home office in financial assessment service department, and assisted financial advisors and their clients all around the country in building financial strategies every day. This was a fantastic education. Best of all, I met my wife, Kristin, while in our home office. Since then I have increased my knowledge base by earning my CFP and AAMS professional designations. In 2018 I was named a limited partner in Edward Jones, and in 2020 I became a general partner in Edward Jones.

In 2011 Kristin and I moved out west to Woodland CA. in pursuit of growing our family and striving to make Woodland the wealthiest town in the USA. We have been making progresson both goals. We have two full-of -life children, Holly and Grant, and we work hard every day in partnership with our clients to help them make progress toward their financial goals.

WHS Interact Helps Kenya Girls

Members of the Woodland High School Interact Club (supported by our Rotary Club) recently came to Woodland Public Libary's Square One facility to make reusable sanitary pads for girls attending school in Karen, Kenya (the same school benefiting from Rotary's Kenya WASH project) to improve their chances of staying in school after their menstral cycle begins. "We take hygiene for granted in this country.", states Jaziri (Interact member). "We want to do something about it and help girls graduate from high school." Woodland Rotarian Jayne Williams provided instructions with support from Club President Dan Stroski.

March 8th Meeting

Good crowd on hand for today's meeting.

Mike Russell, Financial Manager, Edward Jones Woodland, was installed as the Club's newest member today. Kris Kristensen is his sponsor. President-elect Shawn Seyk gave us an update on the 2022 Dinner Auction preparations, and told us a little bit about his participation in the Far West President-elect Training Seminar held in San Jose March 4-6. Attached is the poster the Club surprised Shawn with at the event.

Foundation Chairman Tom Schwarzgruber presented Eric Sharp with his first Paul Harris Fellowship pin recognizing his financial contributions to the Rotary Foundation. Aniek Pflager says the Club is likely to be holding a Senior BBQ at Rotary Park in early May. Aniek expects to provide us more details soon. Today's Recognition leader, Gary Bunch, was happy Dick Hoppin has agreed to join the Club's Recognition Committee. We were happy to see Seth Wurzel join us today; his first visit of the year.

Larry Green, Davis Sunrise Rotary, Brad Miller, Woodland Sunrise Rotary, and Lars Anderson, Board member, Tuleyome, were our guest speakers today giving us an update on efforts and plans to develop Woodland Regional Park Preserve, including a multi club Rotary initiative to fund and build a Pavillion at the site.

March 1st Meeting

CLUB OFFICERS ELECTED!

(Effective July 1, 2022)

Under the direction of Past President Chuck Maltese Club members unanimously elected the following slate of officers for the new year.

President-elect....Karl Diekman

(will serve as Club President 2023--24)

Secretary....Aniek Pflager

Treasurer....Tom Schwarzgruber

Board of Directors (2022-24)

Yvette Roy, Brian Dwyer and Bob Nakken

(two year term)

Current President-elect Shawn Seyk has already been elected to serve as Club President effective July 1, 2022 for the 2022-23 year. Similarly, current Board of Directors David Pinto, Jayne Williams and Eric Sharp have already been elected to complete their two year terms through June 30, 2023.

Chuck Maltese announced the 2022 Rotary Mystery Golf Trip will take place on Wednesday, May 4. More details will follow. Chuck also conducted today's election of Club officers. Mike Chandler introduced his guest today, prospective new Club member Gina Bravo, RN, Woodland Memorial Hospital President & CEO. With the pot at $311 Jeff Burger managed to draw a free lunch.

President-elect Shawn Seyk 'rang the bell' for Polio Plus and gave us an update on April 23rd's Dinner Auction. Chuck Moore was happy all his staff were back at the office. Club Polio Plus Warrior Gary Wirth gave us an update on Rotary's Polio Plus efforts. Gary Wegener reported the County Fair will be held in August 2022 and there will be a Rotary Beer Booth then. Gary will also celebrate his 74th birthday on March 4 (Detroit MI).

Yolo County Librarian Elisabeth Gray was our guest speaker today giving us a program on Yolo County's early literacy resources and the Imagination Library. Thank you Derek Kaff for introducing our speaker.

February 22nd Meeting

'2-22-22'

President Dan Stroski greeted another good crowd at today's meeting. It was good to see Ernie Hodges back with us along with wife Kay. Ernie has been healing from a broken leg. He 'rang the bell' in telling us he recently took possession of a new Mercedes which had been on order for about a year. Unfortunately, Ernie is not able to drive yet so Tom Schwarzgruber did the driving for them today.

Immediate Past President Tabb Randolph placed in nomination the names members to serve in Club leadership positions beginning July 1, 2022 (see list below). The slate of nominees was developed by the Club's Past President's group (also known as the 'Curmudgeons') who have traditionally served as the Nominating Committee for this purpose. The nomination period will remain open until the Club's next meeting, March 1st, when Club members will then vote on the nominations.

Nominations of Club Officers

(Effective July 1, 2022)

President-elect......Karl Diekman

(will serve as Club President 2023-24)

Secretary......Aniek Pflager

Treasurer ......Tom Schwarzgruber

Board of Directors (2022-24)

Yvette Roy, Brian Dwyer and Bob Nakken

(two year term)

Current President-elect Shawn Seyk has already been elected to serve as Club President effective July 1, 2022 for the 2022-23 year. Similarly, current Board of Directors members David Pinto, Jayne Williams and Eric Sharp have already been elected to complete their two year term through June 30, 2023.

(Karl was not at this meeting. The photo of him above was taken in June 2021).

Brian Dwyer was happy about his family's recent trip to Disneyland, and later he managed to draw free lunch from our raffle. David Pinto reminded us we are still in the middle of a membership drive and encouraged all of us to bring guests to our meeting. David was also happy the Chelsea football team will be playing in the English Football League Cup this weekend. Eric Sharp 'rang the bell' because his granddaughter got an athletic (soccer) and academic scholarship to attend college in Portland OR.

Sheila Allen, RN, PhD.,Executive Director of the Yolo Healthy Aging Alliance, was our guest speaker today, giving us a presentation on 'Looking Forward to Retirement'. More information about the Alliance is available on their website: https://www.yolohealthyaging.org/

February 15th Meeting

Thanks to Ginny Stroski we took a new Club photo today. See if you can spot the changes from our last one.

Prospective new Club member Mike Russell and Tony Delevati (he 'rang the bell') were happy about the LA Rams victory in last Sunday's Super Bowl.

President-elect Shawn Seyk has his team working on the 2022 Dinner Auction. Mark Ullrich and Roger Kohlmeyer are looking for sponsors for the event. Jeff Burger is heading up the Wagon of Wine auction item and is asking every member to donate at least two bottles of good quality wine. Bring them to a Club meeting for collection. Tabb Randolph reported on the Club's new member orientation held at his office on February 8.

Our guest speaker today was Thomas Humman, Attorney with Boutin Jones in Sacramento, who gave us a presentation about his time serving as a helicopter pilot with the United States Marines and at the White House, and later with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

February 8th Meeting

Good attendance again today. Jim McGibbon returned to join Steve Venables in leading us in the Rotary Grace.

Jayne Williams reported the Woodland High School Interact Club (who our Club supports) plans to make reusable, cloth sanitary pads for the young girls at the schools involved in our Club's Kenya WASH project in Karen, Kenya in an effort to keep them from dropping out of school when their cycle begins. Jayne is inviting interested Club members and spouses to participate in this effort, which will begin in late February or early March, to contact her for more information. President-elect Shawn Seyk reported St Johns has withdrawn its request for funding from the Club, leaving the Girls Fastpitch Softball Field project as the only organization seeking funds from our Club's 2022 Dinner Auction. Shawn thanked those that have volunteered to help with preparations for the Dinner Auction scheduled as an in-person event on Saturday, April 23. The event's theme will be 'Fields of Dreams'.

Lots of birthdays and anniversaries today. Dena Lawrence will celebrate her 40th birthday on Feb 14 (Carmichael CA). Peter Holmes got an early warning for his 38th anniversary (San Diego) with wife Christine on Feb 11. George Burger was warned about his 35th wedding anniversary (Reno) with wife Janet coming up on Feb 14. Blair Voelz 'rang the bell' for his 50th wedding anniversary with wife Jan on Feb 5. Les Engelmann celebrated his 76th birthday today (Joliet IL), and was serenaded with 'Happy Birthday' by the Club. Tabb Randolph was also warned about his 35th wedding anniversary (Mount Vernon WA) with wife Nancy coming up on Feb 14.

Chris Crone, Yolo County Information Technology, was President Dan Stroski's guest today. Prospective new Club member Mike Russell, Edward Jones, was Kris Kristensen's guest.

Suzanne Portnoy, DPN, Associate Program Director, and Ian Kim, MD, Family Practice Physician, with the Communicare Mobile Medicine Program, were our guest speakers today presenting a program on the mobile medical and mental health care services currently provided to the homeless population of Yolo County.

February 1st Meeting

President Dan Stroski presided over a good sized crowd today. Good programs always attract an audience.

We enjoyed having some guests today. President Dan introduced his guest, Lupe Springer, owner of Home 360 Realty. Jayne Williams introduced her guest, Merry Tokugawa, with Cairo Builders, Inc. of Woodland. Prospective new Club member Mike Russell, with Edward Jones of Woodland, was Kris Kristensen's guest.

Mike Chandler celebrated his 73rd birthday (Woodland) today, and the Club serenaded him with Happy Birthday! President-elect Shawn Seyk reported on the Club's 2022 Dinner Auction, scheduled for April 23. He said Club members will be asked to select one or more beneficiaries of the event's proceeds at the Club's meeting next week (February 8). Shawn says it is his goal that this year's Auction raise $50,000. George Burger was happy to be feeling well enough to return to a Club meeting after an extended illness. Mark Ullrich was sad his SF 49ers could not pull out a win in last Sunday's NFC Championship game (but guest Mike Russell was happy about the results!).

Woodland Sunrise Rotarians Don Sharp and Byron MacConnel with Remax Gold, were our guest speakers today, giving us an update on the local real estate market. (DOM - average number of Days On the Market).

January 25th Meeting

As usual the 'back table' of Gary Bunch, Carl Rodegerdts and Aniek Pflager greeted us with their smiles today. We had a good crowd on hand.

Immediate Past President Tabb Randolph enjoyed wearing flip-flops and shorts in Kona, Hawaii last week. Club Polio Plus Warrior Gary Wirth gave us an update on Rotary's efforts to eradicate polio throughout the world and highlighted the 19 Club members who have joined the Polio Plus Society. We were delighted to see Dena Lawrence return after a long absence due to health issues including morning sickness from her pregnancy. She's happy both she and her expectant child are healthy.

With President Dan Stroski serving as Recognition Chair today and asking questions about his favorite topic, taxes, Peter Holmes and Steve Venables learned that Will Rogers authored the quote above.

Paul Hillegas, Investigator, Yolo County District Attorney's office, was our guest speaker today, giving us a program on the efforts to combat workers compensation fraud locally.

January 18th Meeting

President Dan Stroski opened another meeting of the Club with the assistance of Nick Roncoroni and David Pinto in handling the visual technology.

It was announced that Mike Chandler, who last week won the $500 raffle pot, has since donated that amount to the Woodland Rotary Endowment. Barbara Sonin told us about her experience in becoming a Club member. Gary Bunch's 35 years of working with Meals on Wheels was highlighted.

When told the word 'Senate' comes from the Latin, 'Senex', Yvette Roy discovered it meant 'a place of old men'. 'Just like the Rotary Club', smiled Yvette. Clyde Brooker took the lead on Recognition today. President-elect Shawn Seyk announced the Club's 2022 Dinner Auction has been rescheduled to Saturday, April 23, at the California Agricultural Museum.

WHS Interacters Hear About

Youth Exchange

Jasmina Belledin, President Dan's former youth exchange student from Germany who is currently visiting the Stroskis, met with members of the Woodland High School Interact Club on January 12th and gave them a presentation about the youth exchange program. Our Interact Club mentors Jayne Williams and Gary Wegener also attended.

Raychel Kubby Adler and Denise Rose, were our guest speakers today, appearing virtually on Zoom. They gave us a program on Thriving Pink, a non-profit organization based in Davis providing support to breast cancer survivors throughout Yolo County.?

January 11th Meeting

Yolo County District Attorney Jeff Reisig was our guest speaker today, providing us a presentation on Proposition 47, approved by California voters in 2014, and its impacts on California since then.

Don Huff III's Recognition today focused on what members enjoyed about the recent holidays. Yvette Roy enjoyed hosting breakfast, lunch and dinner for her assembled family at Christmas. Tim Pettit had 6 family members over at Christmas; and enjoyed New Years' Eve at Gary Wirth's home. Lisa Martinez enjoyed family gathering at Christmas, but also had fun with family attending the latest Spiderman movie. Gary Bunch had a great Christmas with family, and started a new tradition of taking family members to the Texas Roadhouse in Fairfield on New Years.

President-elect Shawn Seyk introduced his guest today, Harlmon Sandu, Senior Business Banker with Tri Counties Bank. Mike Chandler won today's $500 pot! Aniek Pflager reminded us why she joined Rotary in 2005.

January 4th Meeting

President Dan Stroski welcomed the Club to 2022. He led the Club in Rotary Grace by himself (where were the other singers???) and introduced us to his guest, his former youth exchange student Yazmina Belledin from Germany who paid the Stroski family a surprise visit over the holidays.

Fred Teichert, visiting Rotarian and Past District 5180 Governor from the Sacramento Club joined us today. Tabb Randolph has lots of snow up at his place in Truckee, and is developing a orientation process for new Club members. President-elect Shawn Seyk is looking for volunteers to assist with the Club's 2022 Dinner Auction set for February 19th. With the pot at $474 and 16 cards left, Jim Taylor managed to draw a free lunch today.

Jayne Williams shared a heartwarming story of her work with the daughter of an immigrant family 20 years ago, who has recently moved to Esparto and who shared this holiday with Jayne. David Pinto, celebrated his 59th birthday (Delhi, India) today, AND 'rang the bell' for his 30th wedding anniversary with wife Rebecca coming up tomorrow, Jan 5. Gary Wirth celebrates his 83rd birthday (Woodland) on Jan 6, and said he enjoyed a recent 7 day trip to New York City. ?

Derrek Kaff said his family was going through the difficult times of aging parents, but he is thankful to hear in the Club several stories of the dignity and grace others have shown in handling similar situations. Peter Holmes will celebrate his 62nd birthday (Fresno) on Jan 6. Yvette Roy, who lost her younger sister last year, 'rang the bell' for the thanks she received from her sister's three adult children for making this year's Christmas so happy for them.

Dr. Dwante Early, PhD., new President and CEO of United Way Capital Region (UWCCR), was our guest speaker today, giving us an overview of UWCCR activities and programs and highlighted its initiatives in Yolo County, where Dr. Early and her family have made their home since 2003. More information about UWCCR can be found at: https://www.yourlocalunitedway.org/

Happy New Year!!