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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 Aniek Demoted!!
On June 30 President Aniek Pflager was officially 'demoted' from the office of President following our wonderful Centennial year. More than 60 members and guests enjoyed a warm summer evening in the beautiful backyard of Gail and Tom Schwarzgruber and a buffet dinner of tri-tip & BBQ chicken. Immediate Past President Bob Nakken led the event with help from Jim Nolan who wrote a Melodrama: 'Rotary and Sex' for the occasion, read by cast members Bob Nakken, Yvette Roy, Gena Bravo, Ann Taylor, Lori McGrath and Angela Lynn. Aniek (with husband Curtiss Pflager) was presented with a plaque honoring her year as President; Gena Bravo (with husband Scott Bravo) received her President-elect badge and pin, and Nick Roncoroni (with wife Ellen Martin) was presented with his President's badge and pin. President Nick Roncoroni will preside over his first regular meeting Tuesday, July 7 at the Hotel Woodland.
Rotary Youth Exchange: Outbound Orientation
Dan Stroski helped organize an orientation for Outbound Rotary Exchange Students from Districts 5160 and 5180 at the Hotel Woodland this week to prepare them to go to Germany, Bolivia, Brazil, Switzerland, France and Taiwan this coming semester. Pia, Daniel, Isabel and Amadeus from District 5160 communities (top group) and Brylynn, Lily, Masey and Elise from District 5180 communities participated with family members.
Camp Royal 2026
The 2026 Camp Royal was held June 11-16 at Mt. Lassen Camp in Mineral CA. Camp Royal is a Rotary program designed to build leadership skills and team building for high school seniors. Our Club sponsored Leah Pinkston (in the middle of the front row in the top photo), a Woodland High student, to attend this year. Leah told Dan Stroski, 'I just wanted to thank you and the Rotary Club of Woodland for giving me this experience. I had lots of fun and made new friends.' More about Camp Royal can be found at https://rotary5160.org/camp-royal/
Beer Booth 2026 at Yolo County Fair
Club Beer Booth Chairman Gregg Kowes provides us a look at the schedule for all our club's shifts at the Beer Booth during the 2026 Yolo County Fair.
June 23rd Meeting
A full house was on hand to greet President Aniek Pflager as she opened her last meeting as Club President.
We had numerous guests and visitors today. Guests included Lorie Haarberg, introduced by husband Kevin; Tom Hall, propective new club member, introduced by Jim Nolan; and Charlotte and her daughter Selma Lindsater, as well as Jenny Clark and Gail Schwarzgruber were introduced by Ernie Hodges; and Skylar Venables, was introduced by father Steve Venables. Woodland Sunrise Rotarians Don Sharp and Byron MacConnell also visited today. Ernie explained the Charlotte (2001-02; Sweden) and Jenny (2002-03; Germany) were Rotary Youth Exchange students who stayed with the Hodges, Haarbergs and Schwarzgrubers during their stays. They were back visiting their host families in Woodland this week.
We also had lots of birthdays and anniversaries today. Jayne Williams got an early warning on her June 27th anniversary with husband Jeff Williams. Jim McGibbon will celebrate his 86th birthday on June 24 (Winnepeg, Manitoba, Canada). Craig Perrin will celebrate his 63rd birthday on June 25 (Iowa City IA). Rob Beggs and wife Terry will celebrated their wedding anniversary on June 3. President-elect Nick Roncoroni and wife Ellen Martin celebrated their anniversary on June 21 by resting up after their journey to Japan and Taiwan. Yvette Roy got an early warning on her 24th wedding anniversary with husband Craig Roy on June 28 (Sugar Hill, NH). Joe Cadelago and wife Amanda celebrated their anniversary on June 21. Ernie Hodges and wife Kay will celebrate their 47th wedding anniversary on June 27 (Springfield VA). And Carl Rodegerdts got the earliest warning on his 65th wedding anniversary with wife June on July 1 (Afton MO).
Don Huff took today's lead on Recognition, asking questions about Fathers Day memories or memories from the Club's Centennial Year.
President Aniek was our program speaker today, giving us presentation 'A Year Worth Celebrating; What we Accomplished Together', an inspirational look back at the Club's 2025-26 Centennial Year. She received a standing ovation for her presentation and leadership throughout the year.
June 16th Meeting
President Aniek Pflager openned the next to last meeting of her presidency with a pretty good size crowd on hand. Soon after we posed in the courtyard for our club photo of 2026. Pretty good looking group for a 100 year old club! Thanks to Woodland Sunrise Rotarian Byron MacConnell for taking the photo!
Bob Nakken introduced his guest & neighbor, John Murphy, a potential new Club member. Steve Venables introduced his guest & son, Skylar. Jim Nolan introduced his guest and prospective new Club member Tom Hall. Visiting Woodland Sunrise Rotarian Byron MacConnell joined us again today, and guest speaker Bill Wittich was joined by his wife Ann Wittich.
Woodland Rotary Endowment Board President Kris Kristensen explained every year Club members are asked to elect four Club members to serve on the Endowment's Board of Director for a two year term. Kris then placed in nominati Lisa Dunham, Tony Delevati, Aniek Pflager and Chuck Moore for a term starting July 2026 through June 2028. This opens the nominations period for these positions which will remain open until the election by the Club at next Tuesday's meeting, June 23. For more information about the Endowment and the duties of an Endowment Board member please contact Kris Kristensen.
Carl Rodegerdts and Mike Chandler were in today's Century Spotlight. President Aniek noted Carl is our senior Club member having served sinced joining in 1971 and serving as Club President in 1986-87. Mike Chandler has been a member since 2002, following in the footsteps of his father Herb Chandler, a long time Club member and past President. Mike served as Club President in 2018-19. In Rotary Fun Facts we learned we have some work to do to get our membership back to our Club size 10 years ago.
Tony Delevati celebrated his 67th birthday on June 14. Lisa Dunham celebrated her 21st wedding anniversary with husband Larry on June 4 (Woodland). Angela Lynn and husband Mike Lynn celebrated their 3rd wedding anniversary on June 15 (Cabo San Lucas, Mexico). And Clyde and Krim Brooker celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on June 12 (Carson City NV) - Congratulations!! With the pot at $404 and 12 cards to choose from Shawn Seyk could only find a free lunch. Mark Ullrich opened Recognition today by thanking President Aniek for her excellent year as Club President which drew applause from the audience. Then, ignoring happy time, Mark launched into trivia questions about famous song lyrics and movie lines which made some money for the Club, but not many right answers.
Bill Wittich, speaker, author and past President, Laguna Sunrise Rotary Club (Elk Grove), was our guest speaker today, providing us with a program on Club membership, 'Stop Recruiting, Start Attracting'. Thanks to President Aniek for arranging for this timely program, and to Jim Nolan for introducing our speaker.
Join us for President Aniek Pflager's last meeting as Club President next Tuesday, June 23, where she plans to talk about 'A Year Worth Celebrating; What We Accomplished Together'
President-Elect Nick Roncoroni At Rotary International Convention in Taiwan
President-elect Nick Roncoroni, his wife Ellen and their two children Elizabeth and Adam, are in Taipei, Taiwan this weekend attending the 2026 Rotary International Convention on behalf of our Club. Rotary Youth Exchange Coordinator Dan Stroski provided us the photos above. Joy (raising the peace sign in one of the photos), a citizen of Taiwan, is coming to Woodland as a Rotary Youth Exchange student to attend Woodland High School starting this August. Joy and her family met with Nick and his family in Taipei and shared these photos with Dan. Joy's mother is also a Rotarian in the Ping-Tung Feg-Huang Rotary Club in their hometown, and is shown exchanging Club banners with Nick.
More photos of the RI Convention from Nick:
From the Host Hospitality Dinner...
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From the Opening Ceremonies; over 37,000 Rotarians attending the Convention...
June 9th Meeting - Yolo Fairgrounds/Auction Arena Visit
President Aniek Pflager welcomed a modest sized turnout today and led a brief, bare-bones, meeting prior to our road trip. Jim Nolan introduced his guest today, prospective new Club member Tom Hall.
Barbara Sonin fessed up to celebrating her birthday on May 23, born 'many years ago' in Austin TX. Brian Dwyer celebrated his 47th birthday on June 6 (La Mirada CA). And Gregg Kowes celebrated the 20th anniversary of his wedding to wife Kimberly on June 3 (Woodland). Gregg is also our Club's Beer Booth Coordinator this year and he is looking for signups to work this season's Booth at the Fairgrounds.
With the pot at $390 and 13 cards remaining, Dick Hoppin found a free lunch. We also had a brief Recognition for happy time. President Aniek was happy she will get a chance to visit Woodland Healthcare's maternity ward tomorrow evening as her daughter Elyse prepares for the upcoming birth of her first child, expected in early July. Don Huff 'rang the bell' in memory of this late father, Don Huff Jr., a Past President and long-time member of the Club, who was born in Woodland 100 years ago today. Don was also very proud of his son Adam who last Sunday, June 7, completed his third annual bicycle 'Ride Around Tahoe Race' coming in First place. Eric Sharp and wife Tia celebrated their 49th wedding anniversary May 28 (Pacifica). Eric was also happy for granddaughter Elly Heskett who graduated in Pschology from Pointe Loma University with a 3.8 GPA, and will be attending UC Irvine to work on her Master degree. Her brother Austin graduated from Woodland Christian with a 3.5 GPA and will attend Irvine Community College to play volleyball.
We then carpooled out to visit the old and new Livestock Auction Arenas at the Yolo Fairgrounds. There, Darlene Thomsen, Executive Director (Volunteer), Yolo County Fair Heritage Foundation met us in the arena that has been used by 4-H and FFA kids over many years to show and auction their animals, and explained the facility constraints that started the Foundation in what would be a 10 year effort to replace the structure with a new auction arena completed last year. Costing nearly $750,000 to complete, the project was funded entirely by donated funds and services, with no financial support by the Fairgrounds or government. Our Club raised a total of $38,900 for the new Auction Arena including $25,000 in 2024 Dinner Auction proceeds, a $13,400 Rotary District grant, and a $500 sponsorship from Woodland Sunrise Rotary. Darlene explained our contribution was essentially equivalent to the cost of two of the portable metal seating sections acquired. The old arena will be kept and repurposed to other animal program uses. Thanks to Chuck Moore for arranging our visit, and to Sarah Pelle, Yolo County Fairgrounds Chief Executive Officer, who also joined us.
Welcome Our New Member - Craig Perrin
Craig Perrin, sponsored by Membership Chair Lori McGrath, was installed as a new member of the Club on May 26, 2026 by President Aniek Pflager. At our request, Craig provided the following bio. If you haven't already done so, please take a moment to introduce yourself to Craig when you meet and welcome him to the Club.
I'm a native Iowan and a University of Iowa Poli Sci graduate who relocated to Marin County with my future spouse Suzanne in 1991 after working for family farms in Washington, D.C. After landing in Marin, I joined the Bay Area technology industry. Over a 30-year career, I helped five companies achieve successful exits. We spent 12 of those years raising our daughter in North Carolina, where I sold technology and artificial intelligence to large enterprises, federal agencies and defense contractors.
We ended up in Yolo County after our daughter was accepted to UC Davis in 2016. We always knew we'd return to California but we never really thought about living in the Central Valley. It turned out to be a great move as Davis and Woodland are both wonderful places to live and work. In 2021 we found our perfect home in Woodland and settle here. Stop by anytime to check out the pollinator-friendly yard I maintain.
In February 2026, I left the tech industry and formed Climate Action & Sustainability Planning, LLC. We help people take climate action in four areas: forests, solar energy, transit, and food. Taking climate action is easy. We can help you plant a biodiverse native forest that will reach self-sufficiency in one to three years and sequester 40x the carbon of a typical forest.
June 2nd Meeting
Woodland Sunrise Rotarians Byron MacConnell and Don Sharp joined us again today. Jim Nolan introduced his guest Tom Hall, who is from Temecula CA where he was a Rotarian at one time. Jeff Burger introduced his guest, Jordi Richter, a welcome friend from earlier days working at Club meetings. Jeff explained Jordi now has two businesses of her own in town.
Woodland Sunrise Rotarians Byron MacConnell and Don Sharp joined us again today. Jim Nolan introduced his guest Tom Hall, who is from Temecula CA where he was a Rotarian at one time. Jeff Burger introduced his guest, Jordi Richter, a welcome friend from earlier days working at Club meetings. Jeff explained Jordi now has two businesses of her own in town.
Kevin Haarberg and Jim McGibbon were in today’s Century Spotlight. Kevin had been a Rotarian in Oklahoma starting in 1984 before coming to Woodland in 1987. He has enjoyed his time in the Club getting to know many people in Woodland and doing good work in the community. Jim McGibbon was introduced to our Club by Dr. Bill Johnson, a fellow Clinic physician and Canadien. Like other OBGYNs at the Clinic, he often had surgical duties on Tuesdays that kept him from attending meetings, but he eventually got that adjusted. He particularly enjoyed working with fellow members Mark & Peter Faye. Jim says we could use some more singers in this Club. In Rotary Fund Facts we learned the other Areas of Focus for Rotary.
Jim Nolan took the lead on today's Recognition. Ann Taylor recently enjoyed a cruise in Canada with her son and daughter-in-law. It was cold, but the ship was hospitable.?Tim Pettit and wife Nadine enjoyed a trip to New York to visit their two sons and enjoy some plays and then went to Florida to attend a grandson’s high school graduation.? Mark Ullrich enjoyed some golfing in the Sierra’s this past weekend with the ‘Shepherds’, a notorious group with several local Rotarians. But Mark was also distressed about the current state of the SF Giants who are in the ‘worst funk possible’. ?Bob Nakken was happy to have been invited to play in this year’s Shepherds event. He said his daughter Alissa is?currently in the Dominican Republic where her employer, the Cleveland Guardians, are evaluating potential new talent for their ballclub. Angela Lynn thanked President Aniek for the Club’s last Board meeting of the year which took place yesterday evening in the patio of Morgan’s on Main, as well as for her leadership and efforts throughout the year.
Jeff Burger was born in San Diego when his dad, George, was stationed there by the Navy. They later moved to Paradise before coming to Woodland. Gary Bunch got a not-so-early warning on his 48th wedding anniversary with wife Kathy coming up June 3. He thanks the Lord she has put up with him this long!
Our guest speakers today were Pete Martin, Don Hildebrandt and Charyl Silva, all Master Falconers, giving us an extensive look at ‘Falconry’. Much more about their presentation is available in the Splinter edition for this week. More about the California Hawking Club, including a place to donate to this nonprofit, can be found on its website: https://www.calhawkingclub.org/
May 26th Meeting
President Aniek Pflager openned our meeting on time again today. Bob Nakken introduced his wife Gaye as his guest today. Lori McGrath welcomed Terri Chapin as her guest. Woodland Sunrise Rotarians Byron MacConnell and Don Sharp (not pictured) also visited today.
President Aniek was proud to introduce Craig Perrin, Owner of Climate Action & Sustainability Planning, as the Club's newest member today, her first during her term as President. Craig was sponsored by Membership Chair Lori McGrath but was also encouraged by Christrian Sherrill and Jim Nolan. Foundation Chair Tom Schwarzgruber presented Chuck Moore with his 9th Paul Harris Fellowship pin today, in recognition for his significant financial support of the Rotary Foundation.
Blair Voelz was in today's Century Spotlight, having been inducted into the Club in 2019. He was encouraged to join by Les Engelmann, Tom LaBrie & Dick Hoppin, and was slowing down on his day to day farming responsibilities and looking for something else to fill his time. Blair has enjoyed getting involved in Rotary. Blair also took the lead on today's Recognition. Following happy time comments, Blair asked for stories about 'your favorite trip'. Yvette Roy talked about the exchange student from Spain that her family hosted. Jayne Williams really enjoyed the vacation she and husband Geoff in a tour of southern Italy. Lisa Dunham enjoyed a trip to Amsterdam. Ryan Burger went for a hike in Capay and wasn’t in as good of shape as he thought. Gary Wegener's favorite journey was his motorocycle adventure across Russia. Angela Lynn thinks her recent tour of Sri Lanka and the Maldives was her favorite.
President Aniek offered these Announcements and Reminders for member's information.
Diane Ortiz, Deputy District Attorney, Yolo County District Attorney's Office, was our guest speaker today, providing us with a program on the work of the DA's Child Abduction Unit which is her focus. Thanks to Dan Stroski for arranging for and introducing our speaker today. More about the Yolo District Attorney's Office can be found on its website: https://yoloda.org/
May 19th Meeting
President Aniek Pflager greeted us on a warm and breezy May day with thanks to Lori McGrath and Mike Chandler for volunteering to squire the 2026 Honey Festival Queen Delaney Craighead and mascot BZ Bee around to various local schools last week in advance of the Honey Festival. President Aniek was delighted this event put us over the top on our goal of making 100 Acts of Service this, our Centennial year.
Angela Lynn and Kris Kristensen were in the Century Spotlight today. Kris was sponsored by Mark Ullrich. He has many friends in the Club and has enjoyed the fellowship and the Club’s work in the community. He especially appreciates those members who could see past their differences with others to find a common goal to do good work, and then effectively work together to achieve results. That’s why he joined the Club and remains a member.Angela Lynn was introduced to Rotary and sponsored by Brian Dwyer to become a member. She knew of Rotary but didn’t really understand what it did. Angela really believes in Rotary’s ‘Service Above Self’ motto and has enjoyed working on the Centennial with President Aniek and others. Also today, with the pot at $316 and 16 cards to choose from, Angela Lynn managed to find a free lunch.
Angela Lynn was in charge of today’s Recognition and focused on Memorial Day coming up this weekend and the men and women we honor for this service in America’s wars. She said she had a grandfather who served in WWII but never spoke of his service to anyone. Angela asked for stories of military service by family members of those attending today. Shawn Seyk’s great uncle Miles was in the first landing of Marines at Iwo Jima and went on to serve in Korea and as a supply chief in Vietnam. Jim Nolan’s two brothers served in Vietnam. Jim himself served in the National Guard. Dan Stroski appreciates the sacrifice of his great uncle, PFC Clarence Alexander Stroski, who was a Marine killed in the invasion of Saipan Island in WWII. Many years later Dan’s cousin, Cara DeMercurio visited the island and noted her uncle’s name in a memorial to US Marines established by the people of Saipan.
Our guest speaker today was Tim Busch, General Manager, Woodland-Davis Clean Water Agency, and Utilities Engineering Manager, City of Woodland, giving us a program on ‘Woodland Water Quality Past, Present & Future’. Thanks to Clyde Brooker for arranging Tim to be with us today, and to Jim Nolan for introducing him. More information about Woodland’s water treatment system can be found at: https://www.wdcwa.com/operations/water-treatment . Water quality reports are available at: https://www.wdcwa.com/operations/water-quality-reports
May 12th Meeting
President Aniek Pflager asked us about the Club's Splinter today. By a show of hands, we learned that many or most of Club members still open and read the newsletter on a weekly basis. Splinter Chair Peter Holmes reminded us we could still use some more members to write the Splinter. Contact Peter if interested. Dan Stroski and Jim McGibbon got us off on the right note for today's Rotary Grace. Mike Chandler introduced Sunrise Rotarian Don Sharp as our only visiting Rotarian today. Jeff Burger introduced his guest, Emmy Moore Minister, who would later introduce our program speaker today. Joe Cadelago introduced guest and prospective new Club member Craig Perrin.
Jayne Williams celebrated a milestone birthday with family and friends on April 29 (Albuquerque NM). Lisa Dunham celebrated her 45th birthday on May 7 (Woodland). Ernie Hodges celebrated his 79th birthday on May 9 (Sevierville TN). And Dick Hoppin celebrated his 86th birthday on May 6 (Oakland CA).
Chuck Maltese took on the Recognition reins today with rousing trivia questions like 'Where do sayings like 'whole nine yards' come from? But first there was Happy Time... Jim McGibbon was proud of his daughter in law for getting an article published in the New England Journal of Medicine. Don Huff was happy to be at Lake Tahoe where the weather has been beautiful. Kevin Haarberg recently enjoyed some time golfing in Scottsdale AZ. Gary Bunch paid $5 for the pleasure of training Angela Lynn on the duties of the Club Secretary, a position Angela will take over starting in July. Jim Nolan enjoyed taking in some Woodland High School baseball playoff action recently and continues to be amazed at the performance of Cohen Dwyer, Brian's son.
Len Dumas, PGA, Director of Golf Operations, Silverado Resort (Napa), and President, California Alliance for Golf, was our guest speaker today, giving us a program on 'My Look at Golf'. Thanks to Jeff Burger for arranging to have Len speak with us today. Check out today's Splinter for more on Len's program. Additional information about the California Alliance for golf can be found on its website: https://cagolf.org/
May 5th Meeting
President Aniek Pflager, fresh from a very successful Woodland Rotary Centennial Celebration, greeted a good sized audience today and thanked the entire Club from participating in and helping to make this event a memorable celebration of Woodland Rotary's first 100 years. President Aniek shared we have brought in over $220,000 for the Celebration and the Rotary Stage Project, and believes total expenses for the Celebration will be considerably less than what was originally expected. She also commented on the Rotary Stage Groundbreaking held at the Opera House Intermission Garden on April 29, exactly 100 years to the day from when the Rotary Club of Woodland was founded in 1926. President Aniek and President-elect Nick Roncoroni were given a standing ovation by the Club for their leadership on the Centennial.
We had several guests and visitors today: Don Huff introduced Woodland High School senior Eli Rogelstad, his father, Ben Rogelstad, and WHS senior Lily Collinsworth as the Club's guests. Jeff Burger introduced his friend and guest Emmy Moore Minister, who may be a potential new Club member. Membership Chair Lori McGrath introduced her guest Craig Perrin, who was a program speaker to the Club last month and has expressed interest in becoming a Club member. President Aniek introduced Genoveva Villagomez, President-elect & YSD Chair, Campus Rotaract Club of Davis who assisted on the Centennial Celebration. And Woodland Sunrise Rotarians Don Sharp and Byron MacConnell visited us again today.
Don Huff presented Eli Rogelstad and Lily Mae Collinsworth as the winners of the George Berrettoni Scholarship for 2026, and gave each a check for $2,500 as their award. Both Eli and Lily expressed their thanks to the Club and explained how the funds will help each of them with expenses as both plan to attend Woodland Community College in the fall. Lily has a 3.8 cumulative GPA with an appreciation for mathematics.This has led her to discover accounting as her 'true calling'. Lily has spent the past year and a half working part time at the Woodland Public Library, performed community service with the GATE Art program, and has served as a member of the WHS Teen Advisory Board. Eli has a 3.85 cumulative GPA, and has spent 12 years in the Boy Scouts, achieving Eagle Scout status. He is also active in a variety of sports including baseball, water polo, basketball and cross country. Eli is seeking an EMT certificate and an AA degree in construction management before moving to a four year college or university.
Roger Kohlmeier was in the Century Spotlight today. He explained he was sponsored into the Club by Gary Wirth in 1982 who was working with Roger on the Bank of Woodland Board of Directors. Roger shared a story from when he was Club President in 2000-01, he told a joke which didn't sit well with a few members, and three of them resigned from the Club as a result. With today's 50/50 raffle pot at $267 and 18 cards to choose from, Jim Nolan found himself a free lunch.
Birthdays and Anniversaries: Bob Nakken celebrated his 74th birthday on April 27 (Woodland). Gary Bunch celebrated his 73rd birthday on April 21 (Woodland). Christian Sherrill got an early warning on his 22nd wedding anniversary with wife Holidae on May 8 (Woodland). And Dave Molinaro jumped the gun a bit by 'ringing the bell' for his 69th birthday coming up May 6 (Compton CA).
Immediate Past President Bob Nakken was in charge of today's Recognition. Don Huff 'rang the bell' happy to have finished his rice planting this morning. Brian Dwyer was happy for his son Cohen's Woodland High School baseball team which finished their year with a perfect 18-0 regular season record, a first in school history and a league championship. Cohen and another WHS sophomore, Riley Salvemini were selected co-MVPs in their league. Shawn Seyk was happy for his Woodland Soccer League generating $2800 in Dessert Auction sales at the Centennial Celebration (funds to be split between the Soccer Club and Woodland Rotary), and enjoyed a visit with his father & family in Tampa FL, attending two SF Giants games against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field which Shawn described as the 'worst ballpark in America'. Peter Holmes and wife Christine enjoyed a great Rocky Mountaineer railroad trip to Banff, Alberta, Canada in April.
William Shea, accompanied by his son Tim Shea, was our guest speaker today. As an experienced pilot and public aviation administrator, Mr. Shea gave us a passionate review of what he sees as the positive future of commercial aviation in the United States. 'Billy' has spoken to our Club on a few occasions in the past 20 years, most recently in 2018. Thanks to Barbara Sonin for arranging for and introducing our speaker today.
WOODLAND ROTARY CENTENNIAL - CELEBRATION & PROJECT
VIEW SELECTED PROJECT CONCEPT VIEW PROJECT PRESS RELEASE
THE PROJECT - ROTARY STAGE AT WOODLAND OPERA HOUSE INTERMISSION GARDEN
April 21st Meeting
President Aniek Pflager, looking cool as ever just 4 days before the Celebration, opened our meeting on rainy, soggy day. She pointed out we still need help for the event, including set up (starting at 10am Saturday at the Community Center) and clean up that night. Woodland Sunrise Rotarians Don Easton (President-elect) and Byron MacConnell visited today. Angela Lynn introduced her aunt and guest today, Debra Carlson.
Steve Venable's new book, the 100 Year History of the Rotary Club of Woodland, went on sale today. Cost to members is $20. Thank you Steve!
President Aniek offered up the key information you need to know for Saturday evening's, Woodland Rotary Centennial Celebration. Looking to see you there!!
Today's Century Spotlight shined on Eric Zane, Woodland's Fire Chief. He became a member in 2022 after being sponsored by Derrek Kaff. Eric has enjoyed meeting and working with other members, as well as participating in various service activities. Eric also got an early warning on his 22nd wedding anniversary with wife Jennifer on May 1st (Woodland). With the pot at $242 and 19 cards remaining Lisa Martinez Dunham, just out of her tax season hibernation, managed to find a free lunch. In Rotary Fun Facts we learned Paul Harris' suggestion that the Club be named 'Rotary' because (C) the early members rotated their weekly meeting locations between each other's places of business.
Brian Dwyer took charge of today's Recognition, and was especially happy about his son Cohen's amazing performance (batting over .500 for instance) on the Woodland HS baseball team as a sophomore this year. With the 100 year Woodland Rotary Celebration upon us, Brian asked for memories from our Rotary experiences. Clyde Brooker remembered starting a Club project to build a chicken coop for the Knights Landing Science Academy when he was Club President. Gary Wegener led the effort. The chicken coop can still be seen on the school grounds today. Carl Rodegerdts remembered when he was Club President having to cut-off an uninvited guest who wanted to talk to the Club. Tabb Randolph remembered leading the Club during the COVID year when all meeting were held on ZOOM. Tabb was proud the Club actually gained members during his year.
Brendan McShea, Business Relations Manager for the Yolo Food Bank was our guest speaker today, providing us with a look at food insecurity in our community, the Food Bank's non-profit programs to address the needs, the key results here in Woodland, and upcoming events supporting the Food Bank. More information about the Yolo Food Bank can be found on its website: https://yolofoodbank.org/
April 14th Meeting
President Aniek Pflager welcomed a good sized group today, just 11 days before our Woodland Rotary Centennial Celebration. She urged us to bring in your completed Winners Choice Raffle ticket stubs to Yvette Roy to make sure your tickets are in the pot! President Aniek expects attendance at about 400 people that evening. Dan Stroski and Jim McGibbon set the right tone for today's Rotary Grace.
The latest information available on our Centennial Celebration! Questions? Ask President Aniek or President-elect Nick Roncoroni.
A new game will be introduced at the Celebration - Treasure Chest Wall 100. President Aniek outlined how to play. Players randomly draw a number - 1 to 100 - out of a container. The number you get is the amount you pay to play. Don Huff was the first to step up today. He drew 93. Several others followed. The winner gets the Treasure Chest (see description above). The winning number will be selected at the Celebration. The game will generate $5000 for the Centennial Project.
With the pot at $225 and 20 cards remaining Marie Galbo found herself a free lunch. Steve Venables got a not-so-early warning on his 47th wedding anniversary with wife Lydia on April 15th. George Burger 'rang the bell' for his 83rd birthday (Phoeniz AZ) on April 9.
Jayne Williams led our Recognition today with questions about the Artemis II Trip to the Moon last week. She first asked everyone who was alive at the time of the first NASA flight to the moon to stand, asked questions about what remembered from that experience. After a visit Eric Zane thinks his son has selected UC Santa Barbara as his college choice. Christian Sherrill shared some of his experiences at UC Santa Barbara. President-elect Nick Roncoroni took a family trip to the Santa Barbara area during spring break last week and his daughter found out what party life was like at Ille Vista at UC Santa Barbara. President Aniek announced she will be an Oma as her daughter Elyse is expecting a child on July 4. Perfect timing says Aniek!
Our own Marie Galbo was our program speaker today, sharing memories of her family's Rotary Journey to Russia in the year 2000. Marie's guests today included friend Nikki Hamilton and her son Mark Galbo, who accompanied his mother and father on the trip back then when he was a student at UC Santa Barbara. Marie says they flew into Moscow and with the assistance of a guide/interpreter, also traveled to Volgograd and St. Petersburg in their exploration.
April 7th Meeting
President Aniek Pflager greeted us on a beautiful Spring day with the reminder the Saturday, April 25th Centennial Celebration is a little over two weeks away. She thanked the 47 members who have pledged or purchased their tickets for the event so far. We have sold 135 Winners Choice Raffle tickets so far, with a goal of selling 300 of them to generate $30,000 for the Centennial. We want to Fill the Room that night. We currently anticipate 350 people attending, but we would like to get that total up to around 400 or more. On April 17 we need to give our food preparation team a headcount, so before then each member will be asked to confirm how many tickets they will actually be using.
Steve Venables celebrated his 84th birthday, yesterday, April 6th (Visalia CA). He was the first of his family to be born in a hospital. Gregg Kowes celebrated his 46th birthday on March 25th. He was born in Grass Valley but moved to Woodland a year later and has been here ever since. Chuck Maltese (Detroit) rose to announce tomorrow, April 8th, was ‘an important date in history’, as both he and Roger Kohlmeier (Los Angeles) will celebrate their 86th birthdays. Roger had to point out that he was the younger one of the two. Woodland Sunrise Rotarians Byron MacConnell and Don Sharp visited again today. Our speaker today, Nancy Fischer, is also a Rotarian with Woodland Luna Vista.
Chuck Moore was in today’s Century Spotlight. He said he didn’t know anything about Rotary, but was ‘told’ to join and did so in 1993. He didn’t know the extent of what Rotary did, and the fellowship that was part of the experience. Chuck said his Rotary membership ‘has been a very good thing for me personally’. In Rotary Fun Facts we learned that ‘Youth (New Generations) Services’ became Rotary International’s fifth Avenue of Service in 2010, joining the original four Avenues – Club Service, Vocational Service, Community Service and International Service.
Yvette Roy took charge of today’s Recognition, asking questions about two April 7th holidays: National Beer Day and National No Housework Day (see today's Splinter edition for the story). Lori McGrath enjoyed attending the Sacramento A’s 11-4 win over the Houston Astros last Friday evening in Sutter Health Park. Ann Taylor was happy about her mare giving birth to a beautiful black stallion fold, though Ann had been wanting another mare. Jeff Burger was happy he and son Ryan recently won a cornhole tournament at Hooby’s in Winters, after coming in second in the same contest for several years. Don Huff ‘rang the bell’ about his recent trip to Maryland to visit his 14-month-old granddaughter.
Nancy Fischer, a member of the Woodland Luna Vista Rotary Club and Co-founder of Yolo for Ukraine, a grassroots organization connecting Yolo County with other organizations and initiatives that provide support Ukraine, was our guest speaker today, providing us with a sobering program about ‘Child Abductions in Ukraine’. Read more about the program in today's Splinter edition. More about Yolo for Ukraine can be found on its website: https://yoloforukraine.org/
March 31st Meeting
In welcoming us to our last meeting of March, President Aniek Pflager reminded us we are now a little more than 3 weeks away from our 100th Anniversary Celebration on April 25. She gave us some information on frequently asked questions (FAQs) on the event, thanked the 45 members who have already purchased their tickets for the event, and announced 120 Winners Choice Raffle tickets (out of 300) have already been sold. President Aniek says arrangements for the event are going well, but we still need volunteers for guest check-in, decorations, as well as set-up and clean-up. Unfortunately we had no guests of members or visiting Rotarians with us today once again.
President-Nominee Gena Bravo was in today's Century Spotlight. Gena joined our Club in March 2022 with Mike Chandler as her sponsor. Gena is committed to volunteering time, talent and treasure in different stages of her life. She has enjoyed meeting members of the Club. Gary Wegener 'rang the bell' today, after remembering to bring the check he had written a few weeks back for his birthday. Joe Cadelago celebrated his 47th birthday on March 19 (Vallejo).
Clyde Brooker was our Recognition guru today, asking a series of population and economic questions about Russia and Ukraine upon unsuspecting members. Both Yvette Roy and Tom Schwarzgruber and their spouses enjoyed a tour of Australia and New Zealand earlier this month. Tom was more partial to New Zealand since there were fewer critters there that can kill you. President-elect Nick Roncoroni was happy Angela Lynn is handling the Club's social media, and has been doing a fantastic job on the Centennial Celebration! David Pinto and his wife Rebecca enjoyed a springbreak trip to Costa Rica and visited/hiked in several of their national parks. Both Christian Sherrill and Lori McGrath attended the SF Giants second game of the season against the NY Yankees at Oracle Park. Christian was proud his 18 year old son and also of his nephew's BMX success. Lori got caught up in the attempted bicycle takeover of the Bay Bridge.
Mike Green of Davis, an active baseball umpire working in the minor leagues of Major League Baseball, was our guest speaker today, giving us an indepth look at 'The Life of an Umpire'. Mike was joined by his girlfriend Alana.
Rotary Centennial Banner on Main Street
A Woodland Rotary Centennial Banner appeared above Main Street in late March to highlight our 100 Year Anniversary and the April 25th Celebration. The banner is located just west of the Second Street/Heritage Plaza intersection and will remain up through April.
Woodland Rotary Centennial Group Photo
A hearty group of about 60 Woodland Rotarians, from all three clubs, braved north winds to assemble on the steps of the old Yolo County Courthouse the morning of March 26 to take a group photo in an effort organized by Visit Woodland. The final product is expected soon.
March 24th Meeting/ Tour of New Holy Rosary Church
After a short lunch meeting at the Hotel, we drove to the new Holy Rosary Church at California & W Cross Streets for a tour led by the Parish's Building Committee Chair Janet Ruggiero. Thanks to Jim Nolan for arranging for the event and introducing our tour leader. Guests today included several spouses Nadine (Tim Pettit), Muffy (Dick Hoppin), Kathy (Kris Kristensen), Terry (Rob Beggs), Barbara (Jim Nolan), and Jan (Blair Voelz). Lori McGrath introduced her guest & cousin Kerry Freitas. Woodland Sunrise Rotarians Byron MacConnell and Don Sharp joined us again. Guests not photographed included Krim (Clyde Brooker), as well as former member Roger Dorris who escorted Helene Dorris (widow of Bob Dorris). Janet Ruggiero led us through the key rooms of the new church which was decades in the making, completed in a two year construction period at a cost of more than $18 million. She shared the many efforts that were taken to preserve, restore and reuse elements of the old church on Walnut Street in the new building, along with numerous improvements. The church will accomodate over 1,000 people plus another Adoration Chapel which seats up to 98 in a more secluded setting. A truly remarkable effort on the parish's part and a wonderful addition to the community.
March 17th Meeting
President Aniek Pflager welcomed a good size group to our St. Patrick's Day session on an unusually warm late winter day. She thanked Don Huff and Clyde Brooker for their work in setting up the room, and she also recognized the 'back table' group of Carl Rodegerdts, Dan Stroski and Secretary Gary Bunch for their work too. President Aniek reports fundraising for the Centennial Project & Event continues to grow. President-elect Nick Roncoroni and Kris Kristensen traveled to Clark Pacific's headquarters in West Sacramento yesterday to meet with and personally thank Co-CEO Don Clark for his company's generous support. Don Clark, a former West Sacramento Rotarian, has agreed to speak at the Celebration. Finally, President Aniek distributed to Winners Choice Raffle tickets to members today, urging those receiving them to complete and turn in the stub to her so they can be included in the drawing.
President-elect Nick Roncoroni thanked the Club for enabling him to attend the PELS (President Elect Leadership) training put on by Rotary District 5160 in San Jose Mar 6-8. Nick enjoyed the experience of talking with many other president-elects from around the District, and heard incoming Rotary International President Olayinka 'Yinka' Babalolo. Rotary Youth leader Dan Stroski urged members to find local young people who might benefit from the Camp Royal Leadership training coming up in June in Lassen County. He has a local young person in mind. The Club Board will be making a decision on who the Club might sponsor at a cost of $1250. Answering President Aniek's request, Lori Ross will be handling decorations for the Centennial Celebration on April 25th and could use some help. Contact Lori directly to assist. She was also happy about the success of the recent Night to Shine event for young special needs folks.
Don Huff and Dan Stroski were in the Century Spotlight today. Don was sponsored into the Club by George Berrettoni almost 40 years ago. Don served as Club President in 2012-13, following his father, Don Huff Jr., and his grandfather Don Huff Sr. in that role. Dan Stroski joined Rotary in Concord in 1989. After returning to Woodland Dan joined our Club in 2007, having been sponsored by Jeff Reisig.
Dan Stroski took charge of today's Recognition (yes, Dan had a lot going on today!). He started by fining everyone who did not wear green today $5, and later asked questions about Rotary involvement in the community. Angela Lynn celebrated her 1979 birthday (Woodland) on March 13 on a trip to Cabo San Lucas Mexico with her husband Mike. Gary Wegener celebrated his March 4 birthday (Detroit MI) with a family outing to Mount Shasta in Siskiyou County. Jim McGibbon happily announced he delivered Angela when she was born. Don Huff 'rang the bell' twice for recent travels to Kona Hawaii, Oregon, and Scottsdale AZ for spring training baseball in honor of the late George Berretoni. Jim Nolan put in $20 to honor sophomore Cohen Dwyer's 3 for 4 plate appearance performace as Woodland High won a recent baseball game Jim attended. Cohen's dad, Brian Dwyer, put in $5 in pride for his son's effort.
Craig Perrin, Founder and CEO, Climate Action & Sustainability Planning, was our guest speaker today giving us a program on 'Woodland's Organics & Green Waste Recycling Program: What Success Looks Like'. More about Climate Action & Sustainability Planning can be found at: https://climateaction4all.com/
March 10th Meeting/ Woodland Opera House Visit
After a short lunch meeting at the Hotel, we walked over to the Woodland Opera House Intermission Garden adjacent to the Opera House and Heritage Plaza. Several Woodland Sunrise and Luna Vista members met us there. Unfortunately, Tom Burmester, WOH Executive Director, was ill and could not join us as planned. In his place Eden Tomich, Executive Assistant, welcomed us and provided an overview of the concept of an outdoor stage within the Garden and related site improvements which Woodland Rotary, all three clubs, have selected for our Centennial Project. A copy of the latest site map showing the location of the stage within the Garden is displayed above. Afterwards many of us went inside the Opera House, upstairs to the lounge, to hear from Andrea St. Clair, WOH Education Director, provide us with a short history of the Opera House and a look at its current programming. The detailed original concept proposal for the outdoor stage in the Intermission Garden is available for review here: Project Concept.
March 3rd Meeting
President Aniek Pflager returned to lead today's meeting. She and President-elect Nick Roncoroni shared the exciting news CLARK PACIFIC will be the Center Stage Sponsor for the Woodland Rotary Centennial! With Yvette Roy's help, we also got a look at the Winners Choice Raffle Ticket and the options it contains for the winner. 300 tickets will be printed, and sold at $100 each. So far, 62 tickets have been purchased through the sponsorship and member packages. Nick will be going to the three day Rotary PELS Training for incoming club presidents in San Jose this weekend.
Tim Pettit and Gary Bunch were in today’s Century Spotlight and fine-free today as a result. Tim joined the Club in 1979 shortly after arriving in Woodland from Roseville, his hometown. Tim says he came to Woodland to take over a dental practice from past Rotary Club President Dr. Dean Jelden, who subsequently sponsored Tim into the Club. After he left the Club in 1992, Tim’s wife Nadine joined local Inner Wheel Club, and subsequently convinced Tim to rejoin Rotary. Tim was pleased to rejoin in 2005 because of the camaraderie he continues to enjoy with fellow members today. After being ‘heavily recruited’ by several local service clubs, Gary Bunch said he chose to join the Rotary Club of Woodland in 1983. Gary says it has ‘been a blast’ and hopes the Club has enjoyed him too. In Rotary Fun Facts we learned about some famous Rotarians.
Christian Sherrill took over today’s Recognition with some interest in the Olympics. Christian said he loved watching recent Winter Olympics, but thinks ‘curling is terrible’. Christian shared he has a 15-year-old nephew, Sam, who is really into BMX freestyle bike riding. Sam has been selected to participate in training to help him compete on future teams. Sam may have a chance to compete for a spot on the US national team for the 2032 Olympics. Christian went on to ask others about their experiences with the Olympics. Jayne Williams shared her brother lives in the Olympic Village housing created for the 1972 Munich Olympic Games in Germany, and she has visited him there. Dave Molinaro shared he attended the 1960 Winter Olympics at Squaw Valley with his father who managed security there. Being so young then, Dave said he doesn’t remember anything from the experience. Chuck Maltese said his grandson has a friend from childhood that remembers attending high school ice hockey practices with an exceptional goalie, Connor Hellebuyck, who became the star goalie on the 2026 United States Gold Medal mens ice hockey team.
Rich Marovich, a member of the Rotary Club of Winters, was our guest speaker today giving us a presentation on the ‘Monarch Waystation Project’. Questions? Rich can be contacted 530 902-1794 or by email at ramarovich@gmail.com and is happy to respond.
February 24th Meeting
With President Aniek Pflager away on business, President-elect Nick Roncoroni led today's meeting. We also were without our any of our regular Rotary Grace singers, so Bob Nakken stepped in to give us an upbeat pace for today's version. President-elect Nick gave us an update on fundraising for the Centennial, including a reminder BUSINESS Sponsorship commitments for the Centennial event are due March 1st. He also reminded us to bring a guest to our future meetings as this is the best way to find prospective new members for the Club.
Woodland Sunrise Rotarians Don Sharp and Byron MacConnell returned for a visit. Don also introduced Lea Burger, Ryan Burger's mom, as his guest. With 18 cards to chose from in the 50/50 raffle Tom Schwarzgruber found the joker to win the $389 pot!
President-elect Nick and Angela Lynn showed off their personal purchases from the Woodland Rotary Centennial Swag Store. They encouraged us to check out what the Swag Store has available to help you show your Rotary support this year. If you have questions, just ask either of them. Angela also reported we already have over 80 Acts of Service completed in our quest to reach 100 during our Centennial year. Angela predicts we will reach our goal by the end of April.
Christian Sherrill was today's Centennial Spotlight. Christian became a member 22 years ago this month, and, until recently, was a solo member of the Club's 'kids table'. He especially likes what the Club does for our local community. In Rotary Fun Facts we learned promoting International service, cultural diplomacy and personal growth and confidence are key goals of Rotary Youth Exchange. We also learned our Club will be hosting a Rotary Youth Exchange student in academic year 2026/27 for the first time in more than a decade.
Jim Nolan took control of today's Recognition asking questions (and generating lots of revenue for the Club) about Black History. Shawn Seyk 'rang the bell' for a great family trip to the coast last week which included a visit by his 89 year old father-in-law who is still certified by the FAA as a Check-Ride Pilot for pilots seeking their annual check review. Peter Holmes also 'rang the bell' with news of the birth of his second grandchild late last week. Mother and baby boy are doing fine.
Don Sharp and our own Ryan Burger, were our program speakers today, providing us with a Yolo County Real Estate Market update. View all the slides in Don and Ryan's visual program.
February 17th Meeting
Despite wind and rain outside, President Aniek Pflager welcomed a good size group to our meeting today. Jim McGibbon and Dan Stroski returned to get us going on Rotary Grace.
President Aniek and President-elect Nick Roncoroni updated us on Centennial Celebration Fundraising efforts which have received in $79,000 in cash or pledges so far.
Les Engelmann celebrated his 80th birthday on Feb 8 (Joliet IL). President Aniek was in today's Century Spotlight. Her first recollections of Rotary came years ago when her office was located in the Hotel Woodland, and she was upset members took up too many parking places in the parking lot on Tuesdays. Former member Bob Frommelt invited her to attend a meeting as his guest, and she liked what the Club did. Frommelt sponsored Aniek as a new Club member 21 years ago. President Aniek says she joined largely to honor her father who had been an active member of the Rotary Club of Yuba City, but she has stayed because of the relationships she developed here.
Blair Voelz led us in today's Recognition, and made a lot of money for the Club asking about quotes by famous and not-so-famous people. President-elect Nick Roncoroni was happy for members support in bringing in business sponsorships for the Centennial. Jim McGibbon 'rang the bell' with pride over his late wife Susie McGibbon's efforts, along with those of the late Polly Van Muyden, in gathering support for the creation of a new pool in the community on the east side of Woodland which was officially openned earlier this month. With the raffle pot at $364 and 19 cards remaining, Shawn Seyk could only find a free lunch.
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February 10th Meeting
President Aniek Pflager welcomed members as preparations for the Club's Centennial Celebration & Project honoring the Club's 100th anniversary of service to the community, are well underway. President Aniek encouraged members to purchase tickets or make a Rotarian pledge for the Celebration on April 25th; help in securing sponsorships; and join a Centennial committee if you haven't already do so. This is an 'All Hands On Deck' moment for all members. Brian Dwyer asked members to go over lists of local businesses provided to identify companies you have a connection with, and sign up to contact them to seek a sponsorship. If you have any questions contact President Aniek or President-elect Nick Roncoroni. Kris Kristensen shared the news that local engineering firm Clark Pacific has offered to provide project management services for the Rotary Stage Project at the Woodland Opera House Intermission Garden, and will donate related architectural and structural services necessary to permit and construct the project. An agreement between Clark Pacific and the Woodland Rotary Endowment is being prepared to start the design work.
Angela Lynn introduced her aunt, Debra Carlson, and her husband Mike Lynn as her guests today. Steve Venables introduced his son David Venables, visiting from his home in Las Vegas, as his guest today. Woodland Sunrise Rotarians Don Sharp, Byron MacConnell and John Roncoroni visited today.
Marie Galbo and Ryan Burger were in today's Century Spotlight. Marie first became a Rotarian in 1995 with the San Ramon club which was a very active and enjoyable Club. She is a past president of the San Ramon club and remembers hosting six delegates from Russia who visited the community. Marie plans to give a program to the Club in April on the trip she and her late husband subsequently took to Russia with a delegation from the San Ramon club. After her husband passed, Marie moved to Woodland to be closer to her son and daughter in law, and she joined our Club in 2020. Rotary continues to be a positive part of Marie's life. Ryan joined the Club just last year after hearing about Rotary from his grandfather George and father Jeff. Ryan says he's inspired about what the Club does for the community. In Rotary Fun Facts we learned more about the book Steve Venables is preparing for the Club's Centennial.
George Burger got an early warning (it sounded like he needed one!) on his 40th wedding anniversary with wife Janet coming up on Valentines Day, Feb 14 (Lake Tahoe). Late arriving Peter Holmes (lost track of time babysitting his 5 month old granddaughter) got a not-so-early warning on his 42nd wedding anniversary with wife Chris on Feb 11 (San Diego). They honeymooned in Aspen CO.
Angela Lynn had double duty today, presiding over Recognition as well as being the Program speaker. Kevin Haarberg had a great visit with former Rotarian Scott Johnston in the sun of Palm Desert. Bob Nakken was happy, but a little sore from taking care of his two year old grandchild over the weekend. With the raffle pot at $359 and 20 cards to choose from Shawn Seyk found himself a free lunch.
Angela Lynn was our program speaker today and gave us a dazzling look at the trip she and husband Mike took last Fall to Sri Lanka and the Maldives which is located on the other side of the world in the Indian Ocean. Use the QR code above to unlock many more photos of Angela and Mike's trip.
APPLICATION (Active link to application available on website's front page until March 15, 2026)
February 3rd Meeting
President-elect Nick Roncoroni gave an update on the Centennial Celebration recognizing financial support already coming in and emphasizing the need for all members to get involved in the effort. If you have any questions about how you can become involved please contact Nick directly.
Mark Ullrich introduced his guest, wife Audrey. David Pinto introduced his guest and prospective new member, Lou Enge, Executive Director of NAMI Yolo County. We were happy to see visiting Sunrise Rotarians Don Sharp and Byron MacConnell again today.
Today's Century Spotlight shined on Les Engelmann and Nick Roncoroni. Les became a member of the Club 36 years ago this month, having been sponsored by the late Don Smith. Nick has been a member for ten years now. Despite the challenges, Nick says he is enjoying the personal growth that comes with leadership working on important efforts for the Club like fundraising for the Centennial Celebration. In Rotary Fun Facts we explored why we do Recognition in the Club. Mike Chandler celebrated his 77th birthday on Feb 1 (Woodland), and Blair Voelz got an early warning on his Feb 5 wedding anniversary (Sacramento; 1971) with wife Jan.
Chuck Maltese took charge of today's Recognition. Tom Schwarzgruber enjoyed a recent two week stay in Hawaii with wife Gail and reported former Club member Mahlon Whittle plans to attend our Centennial Celebration. Shawn Seyk was shared a happy memory as his first daughter, Sarah, was born to wife Brenda 26 years ago today at Kaiser in Sacramento. Mark Ullrich enjoyed the recent Yolo Fliers Club trip to Puerto Vallarta with Audrey, but he was also bummed out for the SF 49ers exit from the NFL playoffs this year. Don Huff was happy to get his limit on the last day of duck season. Gregg Kowes took his son on college tours of Arizona State and Grand Canyon University. Dave Molinaro lost his annual bet with Roger Kohlmeier on SF 49ers versus Las Vegas Raider results, and paid off his $100 debt. Roger turned around and 'rang the bell' for the Rotary Foundation. Gary Bunch had an amazing week at Don Huff's place at Knona that he purchased at the 2025 Dinner Auction.
Robyn Rominger, award winning author, journalist and local historian, was our guest speaker today and discussed her most recent book, 'A Land Filled with Horses', a memior about a horse rescue operation Robyn and husband Bruce Rominger took on after inheriting a neglected herd of 30 wild horses on the 800-acre Yanci Ranch (located at the western end of County Road 27 in western Yolo County) which they had acquired. Bruce Rominger also joined us today. Thanks to Mark Ullrich for arranging for and introducing today's speaker.
January 27th Meeting
President Aniek Pflager kicked off our last meeting of the month with the new Woodland Rotary Centennial Celebration flyer which has a QR code that provides a direct link to tickets to the April 25th event at the Woodlland Community and Senior Center as well as Sponsorship Opportunities. President Aniek also acknowledged our own Ryan Burger for receiving the 'Realtor of the Year' Award from the Yolo County Board of Realtors earlier this week. A proud grandfather, George Burger, 'rang the bell' and father, Jeff Burger, joined in congratulating Ryan.
President-elect Nick Roncoroni reported on recent efforts to raise funds for and pledges received for the Centennial Celebration. He emphasized the need for all members to find interested businesses and individuals who would like to help Woodland with a sponsorship.
Rob Beggs who became a member three years ago, was in today's Century Spotlight. We were reminded in Rotary Fun Facts that Taipea, Taiwan was the site of the Rotary International Convention in 2021 that had to be cancelled and changed to an online format at the last minute due to the pandemic. Taipea is the site of the 2026 Rotary International Convention.
Local football legend Craig Penrose was our guest speaker today, giving us a program called 'Football Then & Football Now', that looked at what pro football was like when he played in the 1970s and what it is today. Thanks to Kevin Haarberg for introducing our speaker today.
January 20th Meeting
President Aniek Pflager welcomed members that we are about 3 months away from our Centennial Celebration on April 25th. Work is underway to make this a once in a lifetime occasion. So he wouldn't be lonely, Jim McGibbon joined Dan Stroski on leading the Rotary Grace today. Chuck Maltese warned we may be at an end for the Rotary Mystery Golf trip because its difficult to find a golf course willing to take us and transportation costs are going up. But Chuck says he and Woodland Sunrise's Chuck Santoni are still trying to put something together.
Joe Cadelago was in today's Century Spotlight. In Rotary Fun Facts we learned the Woodland Opera House was reopened in 1989 after a complete renovation.
With today's 50/50 raffle pot at $226 and 23 cards remaining, Bob Nakken found himself a free lunch. Byron McConnell of the Woodland Sunrise Club visited us again today. While he couldn't quite arrive in time to do it himself, Christian Sherrill's guest today, Craig Perrin, was introduced by President Aniek.
Brian Dwyer took the Recognition helm today with questions about Martin Luther King and the holiday commemorating him. Roger Kohlmeier was sad about the SF 49ers loss last Saturday, and Mark Ullrich was not even here. Ernie Hodges was happy for Indiana University winning the NCAA football championship game last night since he has several friends from Indiana. Don Huff was especially happy at the news the California Parole Board denied parole for the man convicted of his son Brandon Huff's 1982 kidnapping for a 19th time following a hearing last Friday. (For more information about this story read the Daily Democrat's recent article.)
Chip Maxson, President and Chief Operating Officer, Sacramento River Cats, was our guest speaker today giving us a closer look at the 2025 baseball season at Sutter Health Field in West Sacramento where both the River Cats (AAA franchise of the SF Giants), and the Sacramento A's (formerly known as the Oakland A's; temporarily playing at Sutter Health Field for three years before their move to Las Vegas.) played what Chip said was 'A Season Unlike Any Other'. Thanks to Joe Cadelago for arranging for and introducing our speaker today.
January 13th Meeting
Club Foundation Chair Tom Schwarzgruber presented Paul Harris Fellowship pins from the Rotary Foundation to Chuck Moore (+8) and Ann Taylor (her first!) in recognition of their significant financial support of the Foundation.
President-elect Nick Roncoroni updated the Club on the efforts underway and yet to come to make Rotary's Centennial Project a reality. He urged members to sign-up for one of the projects committees and to answer the call when asked to help. View the Project committee structure. President-elect Nick also presented the final version of the member pledge package showing how members can provide financial support for the project at various levels. View the Pledge Form. If you have questions about either of these items please contact President-elect Nick directly.
President Aniek Pflager gave us the sad news that Reggie Powell has resigned from the Club for personal reasons effective immediately. She said he hopes to rejoin the Club sometime soon, and said he would be welcomed back when he does. President Aniek reported the Club's Board of Directors have appointed Jim Nolan to serve out the balance of Reggie's current term on the Board.
Jayne Williams was in charge of today's Recognition. During happy time Jayne was happy to announce she has personally pledged $1,000 toward the Woodland Rotary's Centennial Project. But Jayne also had chocolate on her mind, because she learned that the Davis Odd Fellow's Lodge is holding their annual Chocolate Festival on February 1. She went on to ask a variety of questions about chocolate today. Also under happy time, Linda Walsh had a wonderful holiday season spent with her kids and grand children. Mark Ullrich was happy about the SF 49ers win over the Philadelphia Eagles last weekend.
Our own Joe Cadelago, Public Services Manager with Waste Management, was our program speaker today, providing us with a look at Waste Management's work nationally, as well as here in Woodland and Yolo County. More about Waste Management can be found on their website: https://www.wm.com/us/en/location/ca/sacramento/commercial-trash-service-sacramento-ca
Rotary Helps Veteran's Cemetery
January 6th Meeting
After a three week holiday break President Aniek Pflager welcomed members to the 100th anniversary year of the Rotary Club of Woodland -our Centennial Year.
With the pot at $183 and 25 cards to choose from, Roger Kohlmeier found himself another free lunch. Woodland Sunrise Rotarians Don Sharp, John Roncoroni and Byron MacConnell visited us today. John Roncoroni told us a meeting about local non-profit organizations regaining access to the Yolo County Fair was set for 5:30pm February 17 at the Yolo Fair Museum.
President-elect Nick Roncoroni explained efforts made to find and develop a Centennial Project for the community's benefit during our 100th anniversary. The Club's Grants and Services Committee has selected a Woodland Opera House proposal to develop a Rotary Stage for the Intermission Garden adjacent to both the Opera House and Heritage Plaza as the Club's Centennial Project. The anticipated cost of the project is $100,000-$150,000, with final costs determined through detailed design & engineering. (View the Opera House proposal). The proposal has been reviewed with the representatives of Woodland Sunrise Rotary and Woodland Luna Vista Rotary who have agreed to partner with our Club on this effort. City of Woodland officials have also agreed to work with us on the proposal. The Club's Board of Directors and the Woodland Rotary Endowment Board of Directors have also approved the project proposal. President-elect Nick spoke about the Club's Fund Raising Committee, which he is leading, to find the sponsors and member pledges necessary to fund this project, and outlined draft member pledges being proposed. Club members are encouraged to get involved with the Committee's efforts. (The next Fund Raising Committee meeting is set for 4pm Monday, Jan 12 at the Woodland Soccer Club office). The Woodland Rotary Centennial Celebration has been set for Saturday, April 25, 2026 at the Woodland Community & Senior Center. Celebration details will be announced.
There were several birthdays and an anniversary since we last met. Peter Holmes celebrated his 66th birthday (Fresno) today! We serenaded him with Happy Birthday! President-nominee Gena Bravo couldn't really celebrate her birthday on Dec 10 (Anaheim) because she was at home with the flu. Christian Sherrill celebrated his birthday Dec 13 (San Leandro), by attending the Woodland Holiday Parade. David Pinto celebrated his 63rd birthday on Jan 5 (Old Delhi, India). David and his wife Rebecca celebrated their wedding anniversary on Jan 4 by recently traveling to the U.S. Virgin Islands and visiting the Virgin Islands National Park on the island of St. John. Kris Kristensen (no photo) 'rang the bell' in celebration of his 75th birthday on Dec 21 (Ross CA).
Yvette Roy led today's Recognition with a story about her 9 hour drive up to Tahoe due to weather and heavy traffic. Dick Hoppin announced the news of the birth of his 10th great grandchild. President Aniek shared how happy she was for making it to 2026 and for her gratitude towards her fellow Rotarians. Dan Stroski said he just returned from a vacation to San Pedro, Belize with his daughter and wants to go back some day. Jeff Burger was happy his youngest son Matthew has graduated from Sacramento State with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Ernie Hodges was sad for the recent passing of his wife Kay's sister, as well the news of the passing of area Congressman Doug LaMalfa.
Hollie Mallamud, Development Manager for the Pence Gallery of Davis, was our guest speaker today, providing an update on the extensive efforts of the Pence Gallery, a non-profit organization, supporting the local arts. More about the Pence Gallery can be found on its website: https://pencegallery.org/ |
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Yvette Roy
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Our own David Pinto was our program speaker today, giving us an indepth look at his native country, India, in a presentation called 'My India - its history, culture, opportunities and challenges'. More about India can be found on the Britannica 
On a bright springlike day, President Aniek Pflager welcomed a good sized crowd to today's meeting. Using proceeds from the 2025 Dinner Auction, President Aniek and Immediate Past President Bob Nakken today 
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Immediate Past President Bob Nakken had Recognition duty today, and challenged Dick Hoppin to name each of his ten great grandchildren. Dick made a good try, but had to get bailed out in the end. Shawn Seyk was happy the Woodland City Council finally approved a lease agreement with Shawn's Woodland Soccer Club to develop two soccer fields at the Woodland Sports Park. Shawn says work on the new fields will begin in February. Nick Roncoroni was happy his daughter Elizabeth, a freshman at Woodland High School, has joined the Community Interact Club and will be serving as its Treasurer this year. Nick also shared that he, wife Ellen, and their two children are traveling together to both Japan and to the Rotary International Convention in Taiwan later this year. Dave Molinaro was welcomed back after a few weeks away. With the raffle pot at $245 and 22 cards to choose from, Brian Dwyer drew himself a free lunch. 
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President-elect Nick Roncoroni updated the Club on the efforts underway and yet to come to make Rotary's Centennial Project a reality. He urged members to sign-up for one of the projects committees and to answer the call when asked to help. View the Project committee 
