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 Bob Demoted!!

About 60 members and guests braved a very warm Monday evening, June 30, to take in the Club's 2025 Demotion in the beautiful and shaded backyard of our hosts Gail and Tom Schwarzgruber, and enjoy a BBQ dinner by Ludy's and Judy's Catering. Jim Nolan led a program to officially demote and thank outgoing Club President Bob Nakken who was joined by his wife Gaye. This was Bob's second term as President having previously served in 2009-10. Bob endured some roasting about his golf exploits, and his long hair, but he received his retired President's plaque and related badge with the geniune thanks from all attending. In turn Aniek Pflager, joined by husband Curtiss, received her President's badge as she will serve as Club President in 2025-26, our 100th year in service to our community. Also installed was Nick Roncoroni, joined by wife Ellen Martin, who will serve as President-elect in the coming year. Aniek will begin her reign at the Club's next meeting, Tuesday, July 8 at the Hotel Woodland. View all of the Demotion photos in the Photo Gallery.

June 24th Meeting

With a theme of 'Thank you for making this a very enjoyable year', President Bob Nakken led his last meeting as Club meeting today. In noting what the Club accomplished this year, President Bob gave thanks to all members for their support and presented tokens of his appreciation to Club Board members, committee chairs, and others involved in keeping the Club operating. The Demotion will take place next Monday, June 30 at the Schwarzgruber's backyard. No meeting next Tuesday, July 1. President Aniek Pflager will begin her reign on Tuesday, July 8.

Woodland Sunrise Rotarians Assistant District Governor Keith Rode, Don Sharp and Byron MacConnell visited today. Steve Venables introduced his guest, son Skylar. Dan Stroski introduced his neighbor Sarah Boyd, an aspiring firefighter, as his guest. With the pot at $411 and 13 cards remaining, Ernie Hodges found a free lunch.

It was Dr. Jim McGibbon's 85th birthday today and the Club seranded him with 'Happy Birthday'. Yvette Roy got an early warning on her 23rd wedding anniversary with husband Chip coming up June 28 (Sugar Hill NH). Angela and Mike Lynn celebrated their 2nd wedding anniversary on June 15 (Tahoe). Clyde Brooker fessed up to celebrating his 49th wedding anniversary with wife Krim on June 12 (Lake Tahoe). And Ernie Hodges got an early warning on his 44th wedding anniversary with wife Kay on June 27 (Springfield VA).

ENDOWMENT BOARD ELECTED

Following up on nominations made at last week's meeting, the Club today unanimously elected the following members to new terms on the Woodland Rotary Endowment Board of Directors:

Two Year Terms (2025-2027):

Clyde Brooker, Dan Stroski, Kris Kristensen, and Bob Nakken

One Year Terms (2025-26):

Rob Beggs, Lisa Martinez Dunham, and Nick Roncoroni

Tony Delevati will be serving the last year (2025-26) of his current two-year term, and pursuant to Endowment Bylaws, the Club Treasurer (Tom Schwarzgruber) serves at the Endowment Board Treasurer.

Christian Sherrill was the Master of Recognition today, asking whether those called upon if they were planners by nature, or live more in the moment. Jayne Williams 'rang the bell' today with joy from attending her nephew's wedding in Yosemite over the weekend, and ALMS students had a memorable field trip to the Bayer Woodland R&D facility with help from Nick Roncoroni. A new look Preston Schaub made an appearance today. Don Huff was at Lake Tahoe last Saturday but thankfully not on the water when the weather got dangerous near the south end of the lake. Dan Stroski announced the new inbound Rotary Youth Exchange students for District 5160 and 5180 will be holding a series of orientation sessions at the Hotel Woodland on August 23 & 24, and Dan encouraged interested members to come meet the students. Shawn Seyk took his U19 Woodland Cosmos (06/07G Orange) womens soccer team down to Southern California last weekend where they competed in the Velocity Cup in Chino CA. While they didn't win the tournament, they didn't lose a game either. Unfortunately, they finished tied in a game they needed to win in order to advance. He drove the team all the way home late Sunday afternoon, but his team sang karaoke songs along the way which kept him awake. His last experience as a youth soccer coach was a positive one.

June 17th Meeting

In his next to last week in office, President Bob Nakken got us going again today as he has all year long. Dick Hoppin introduced his guest, and grandson, Tommy Payne, a local farmer who may be a new member prospect. Shawn Seyk introduced Jack Cullison and his parents Drew and Kevin Cullison who were guests of the Club today. Since she will soon be leaving for the Rotary International Convention in Calgary, President Bob gave President-elect Aniek Pflager a token of his appreciation today for all Aniek's amazing efforts with the Club this past year.

Scholarship Chair Shawn Seyk introduced Jack Cullison, Pioneer High School's 2025 valedictorian and the winner of Woodland Rotary's college scholarship ($1500 per year for 4 years). Jack earned at 4.56GPA at Pioneer and plans to attend Notre Dame University in the Fall to pursue a major in biology.

Tabb Randoph announced the Woodland Rotary Endowment has awarded the 2025 George Berrettoni Scholarships to Noah Cox and Brodie Weichel. They were among five applicants this year and were vetted by Tabb and his committee which included Don Huff III, Dave Molinaro and Kathy Berrettoni, George Berretoni's widow. Each winner will be invited to attend an upcoming Club meeting to receive their $2,500 scholarship. Read more about the George Berrettoni Scholarship.

ENDOWMENT BOARD NOMINATIONS

Kris Kristensen announced Club members will be asked next Tuesday, June 24, to elect new Board of Director members to the Woodland Rotary Endowment Board. Kris, who is the Board's current Secretary, explained there are nine Board positions overall; four are two year terms (July 1, 2025-June 30, 2027) and four are one year terms (July 1, 2025-June 30, 2026;) and two of those positions are already set. Tony Delevati will be serving the last year (2025-26) of his current two-year term, and pursuant to Endowment Bylaws, the Club Treasurer (Tom Schwarzgruber) serves at the Endowment Board Treasurer.

Kris placed the following names in nomination for the remaining positions:

Two Year Terms (2025-2027):

Clyde Brooker, Dan Stroski, Kris Kristensen, and Bob Nakken

One Year Terms (2025-26):

Rob Beggs, Lisa Martinez Dunham, and Nick Roncoroni

This opens the nominations period which will be closed at the the time of next week's election. No further nominations were heard.

Jayne Williams got an early warning on her 38th wedding anniversary with husband Jeff coming up June 27th (Lake Tahoe). Nick Roncoroni was happy to get an early warning on his 17th anniversary with wife Ellen coming up June 21 (Grand Island Mansion, Walnut Grove CA). Nick was also happy about a family vacation they enjoyed last week in Washington DC, and they got to leave before the big parade. Chuck Bruns got an early warning on his 21st wedding anniversary with wife Jennifer coming up June 26 (Sacramento).

With a glich in the schedule, Recognition Chair Kevin Haarberg had to step in to take an unexpected vacancy today. Kevin asked folks to describe their vacation plans for this summer. Barbara Sonin was happy for her grandson who was the valedictorian of his high school in Virginia. Don Huff III enjoyed a nice Father's Day weekend at Lake Tahoe. Chuck Maltese was happy about an Italian, from Sicili no less, Francesco Arezzo was recently named the new 2025-26 Rotary International President. Shawn Seyk 'rang the bell' with the news his youngest graduated from high school and is headed to Chico State in the Fall; and that he (Shawn) will be leading his girls soccer team to Los Angeles this weekend in what will be his last soccer coaching experience. While retiring from coaching, Shawn says he will remain as Woodland Soccer Club's President.

Pioneer High School Principal Sandra Reese was our guest speaker today. Sandra will retire next month after 31 years in education, the last ten of which in her current position. Sandra was kind enough to give us a program on her 'Reflections of a Retired Principal'. Thanks to Jayne Williams for arranging for and introducing our speaker today. Read more about Sandra Reese at https://www.msn.com/en-us/education-and-learning/secondary-education/pioneer-high-school-principal-sandi-reese-to-retire-after-decade-of-dedicated-service/ar-AA1FMZtH

FFA/4-H Auction Arena at Fairgrounds Under Construction

Chuck Moore shares this photo of the new FFA/4-H Livestock Arena now under construction at the Yolo County Fairgrounds. The Club has pledged $25,000 from the 2024 Dinner Auction proceeds and helped obtain $13,400 in District 5160 grant funding for the project.

June 10th Meeting

President Bob Nakken welcomed a good size crowd to today's meeting. President Bob is now officially a short timer this month, counting the days until the end of his term. We got the full compliment of voices from Jordi Richter, Jim McGibbon, Dan Stroski and Steve Venables together today to get us through on Rotary Grace.

Brian Dwyer celebrated his 46^th birthday on June 6^th (La Mirada CA and grew up in Nevada City CA). Eric Sharp, who turned 70 years old on May 2nd, ‘rang the bell’ for his 48^th wedding anniversary with wife Tia on May 28 (Pacifica). ‘All is good’ Eric declared as he just returned from a family vacation to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, where he had an ‘epic’ day of ocean fishing, bringing in 21 yellowtail tuna in about 90 minutes.

President-elect Aniek Pflager distributed signup sheets for 2025-26 Club committees and asked each member to sign up for those Club activities they would like to work on. Talk with Aniek if you have questions. View the 2025-26 Tentative Committee List. President-elect Aniek also mentioned payment on Club dues for the 2025-26 year ($300 this year) will be due August 1, 2025. She distributed a dues invoice for members to see. Only Club dues will be payable then. The price of dinner tickets for the 2026 Dinner Auction has not yet been determined. Members will receive an additional invoice to purchase four 2026 Dinner Auction dinner tickets once the price is determined.

Lori Ross was in charge of today's Recognition and played a series of popular songs from a variety of eras and asked select members to guess either the song title or the singer of the tune. Ann Taylor was happy for her granddaughter Allyson who recently graduated from the University of Glasgow, Scotland’s Veterinary School after three years of study there. Ann explained they don’t have any grading system at the school, only one pass or fail test is administered at the end. She said Allyson was especially relieved to learn recently she had passed the test. President Bob, after playing golf at Davis Muni last week, went to his car in the parking lot and found that someone driving a BMW Midget had parked so close to Bob’s vehicle that Bob could only enter his car by going in the passenger door. Bob was so upset that he left a less-than-happy note on the BMW before leaving. A few days later Bob and Aniek drove to Assistant District Governor Keith Rode’s house for a meeting with Rotary Presidents and President-elects from around Yolo County to discuss the upcoming year. Upon arriving Bob saw the same BMW Midget parked in front of Keith’s house. Bob said he was too much of a coward to approach the owner of the BMW, who was apparently attending their meeting, to admit he had signed the note he left on the BMW. Dan Stroski, who is the District 5160 Youth Exchange Coordinator, was surprised and happy to be invited by Mati, one of his Youth Exchange students, who was graduating from Sutter High School, to attend the ceremony. Mati is from Italy and, while her host family was there, she did not have any biological family able to attend.

Since our scheduled speaker for today had to cancel, Jim Nolan invited several new members to the Club to spend a few minutes to tell the Club a little more about themselves. Ryan Burger, Linda Walsh, Gregg Kowes, Lori McGrath and Joe Cadelago volunteered to participate today. Read what they had to say in today's issue of the Splinter.

June 3rd Meeting

President Bob Nakken asked for a moment of silence to start today's meeting in memory of Woodland Sunrise Rotarian Charter member Lynn Jepson who passed away this morning. She will be missed!

With the help of Byron MacConnell we got a new Club photo taken today!

Gregg Kowes and wife Kimberly are celebrating their 19th wedding anniversary today. Nick Roncoroni reported Yolo Farm to Fork is looking for volunteers to work at their Inaugural Lavender Run in Capay this Saturday, June 7. Volunteer Role Overview If you would like to help support this event go to: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScp

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Clyde Brooker took charge of today's Recognition with questions about what unique sayings you hear in Great Britain actually mean. Chuck Bruns returned to a meeting today after taking leave to work at a special teaching assignment. Kevin Haarberg was happy about a trip to Spain he and wife Lorie just returned from. Blair Voelz was happy about the condition of his farm and gave us an updated look crop prices he and other farmers are dealing with. Angela Lynn was happy for her son who just graduated from high school, but will miss him being at home. Scholarship Chair Shawn Seyk was happy to have the honor of recently presenting a Dorris Scholarship award (part of the Woodland Endowment) to Sophia Bruns, daughter of Chuck Bruns.

Marv Hale, Secretary/Red Kettle Coordinator of the Woodland Salvation Army was our guest speaker (accompanied by friend Roz Stone) today, and provided us with a look at the history of the Salvation Army and the local services/activities it provides.

May 27th Meeting

Jim McGibbon joined Dan Stroski and Steve Venables in leading our Rotary Grace today. Visiting Woodland Sunrise Rotarians Don Sharp and Byron MacConnell were with us. Wendy Casas introduced her guest, son Max Raviotta.

We were honored today to have Judge Daniel Maguire, Superior Court of Sacramento, County of Yolo, as our guest speaker today. He provided us with a review of the Juvenile Court. More information about the Court can be found at: https://www.yolo.courts.ca.gov/divisions/juvenile

WHS Interactors Graduate

Jayne Williams shared a photo of the Woodland High School Interact Club's graduating seniors. To learn more about the Club, which is sponsored by our Club, checkout the WHS Interact Club website at: https://www.whsinteract.org/

May 20th Meeting

President Bob Nakken presided over today's meeting on a warm, beautiful Spring day. He announced a new Club Photo will be taken at the June 3rd meeting, and reminded us this year's Demotion will be held Monday evening, June 30 at Tom & Gail Schwarzgruber's home, and that we will be dark on Tuesday, July 1 since several members will be away for the July 4th Independence Day Holiday. President Aniek Pflager's first meeting will be Tuesday, July 8. Jordi Richter and Steve Venables got the right tone going for today's Rotary Grace.

Our visiting Rotarians today were Cecil 'Pancho' Padilla (Winters) as well as Don Sharp and Byron MacConnell (Woodland Sunrise). We had no other guests today.

Jeff Burger celebrated his 55th birthday on May 17 (San Diego). Barbara Sonin will celebrate her birthday on May 23 ('many years ago' in Austin Texas). Jayne Williams celebrated her birthday on April 29 (Albuquerque NM). Also, Jayne was happy for her granddaughter who graduated from college in 4 years and got married in Southern California over the weekend. Preston Schaub celebrated his 7th wedding anniversary with wife Leslie (Arden Park) on April 21.

Scholarship Chair Shawn Seyk met the valedictorians of Woodland and Pioneer High Schools during their scholarship nights last week to advise them about our Club's Scholarship which they will receive. Shawn shared Woodland High School's Valedictorian Metzy Solario earned a 4.66GPA and expects to attend the UC Berkeley this Fall; and Pioneer High School's Valedictorian Jack Cullison earned a 4.56GPA and plans to attend Notre Dame. Shawn hopes to have each of them and their parents to attend an upcoming Club meeting so we can meet them.

Don Huff III took the lead on today's Recognition. Don was happy about his recent visit to Baltimore to be with his son Brandon's family, including his 12 week old granddaughter Elliot. Woodland Sunrise Rotarian Don Sharp was happy for his granddaughter who competed in a horse show in Las Vegas over the weekend. Although the season ended this past week for Woodland High School's baseball team, Brian Dwyer was happy for their success this year, in part due to the great performance of his son Cohen. Brian also thanked Jim Nolan for attending one of the team's exciting playoff games last week. Lori McGrath recently had an amazing cruise on the St. Lawrence River from Montreal to Quebec City Canada. Barbana Sonin was happy for her granddaughter who, as a middle schooler, made the high school rowing team. Also, President Bob fessed up to recently letting his hand pulled golf cart roll into the water at Davis Muni GC.

Our scheduled guest speaker for today had to miss our meeting due to work taking him to Washington DC. Instead, our own Steve Venables stepped up and shared a video highlighting the nearly 40 year history of Woodland's County Fair Mall. He included this photo taken at the Mall's opening in 1989 which has a few familiar faces.

May 13th Meeting

President Bob Nakken led today's meeting, our first at the Hotel Woodland since April 22, with an announcement that the Club's Board of Directors, at its recent meeting, approved an increase in Club dues to $300 per member (up from $210) beginning with the 2025-26 year. He explained the Club expects to end this fiscal year with a operating deficit as expenses are exceeding revenues, in part caused by increasing dues the Club must pay for membership to Rotary International and District 5160. While Club reserves will make up this year's deficit, the Board felt a dues increase will help bring our revenues into balance with ever increasing costs. President-elect Aniek Pflager 'rang the bell' in thanking everyone involved in making the 2025 Dinner Auction very successful. Treasurer Tom Schwarzgruber reported we have received over $75,000 for the event (and some outstanding sponsorship pledges may still be received), and after expenses, we will have more than $38,000 available for distributution to the intended beneficiaries.

Rotarians on the mend: Tabb Randolph 'rang the bell' because he had hip replacement surgery two week ago and is getting around OK. Gary Bunch had rotator cuff surgery on April 9 and is dealing with the long recovery process.

Lots of birthdays reported today: George Burger celebrated the 32 anniversary of his 50th birthday on April 9 (Phoenix AZ). Dick Hoppin 'rang the bell' for his, and his twin sister's, 85th birthday (Oakland CA) on May 6. Lisa Martinez Dunham celebrated her 44th birthday (Woodland) on May 7. Dave Molinaro celebrated his birthday on May 6. And Ernie Hodges celebrated his 78th birthday (Seiverville TN) on May 9.

Mark Ullrich led today's Recognition with trivia questions (he found them on the internet!) about Mothers Day.

Local author Claudia Krich was our guest speaker today, giving us a program on her book 'Those Who Stayed - A Vietnam Diary' which covers her experiences living in Vietnam from 1973-75 following the withdrawal of the United States military from the war. (Claudia is kneeling on the left of this photo).

Joint Meeting at

Davis Noon Rotary

Our Club held a joint meeting with Davis Noon Rotary at the Davis Community Church on Monday, May 5. President Bob Nakken was welcomed by Davis Noon President Tim Ainsworth. President Bob was joined by President-elect Aniek Pflager, Tom Schwarzgruber, Mike Chandler, Gary Wegener, Marie Galbo, Lori McGrath, David Pinto, Jim Nolan, Jayne Williams, Tim Pettit and Kris Kristensen. We enjoyed a delicious Cinco De Mayo inspired lunch and Davis author Claudia Krich presented a program on her book 'Those Who Stayed: A Vietnam Diary' a memior of the time she and her husband spent there in the mid 1970s at the end of the war.

District 5160 Convention

Dan Stroski and Lori McGrath attended the 2025 District 5160 Convention in San Ramon May 2-4. Among the speakers they heard was Sylvia Whitlock, who became the first female Rotary Club President with the Rotary Club of Duarte CA in 1987.

2025 Dinner Auction -

Very Successful!!

A GREAT EVENING OF RAISING FUNDS

FOR THE COMMUNITY!

The event brought in over $74,000 in revenues so far ($2400 in sponsorship pledges remain outstanding). After expenses, we have a net profit of $42,200. After a $5,000 contribution to the Endowment's Community Fund, $37,200 will be available for distribution to our beneficiaries.

April 22nd Meeting

President Bob Nakken greeted a good sized crowd today on a beautiful Spring afternoon. Jim McGibbon joined Jordi Richter and Dan Stroski in leading our Rotary Grace. And, like a rite of Spring, we saw Tony Delevati and Mark Ullrich both attending for the first time this year in celebration of the end of tax season!

With the Club's 2025 Dinner Auction just four days away, President-elect Aniek Pflager urged us to bring some cash that evening to pay for 50/50 raffle tickets and tips. Peter Holmes reminded us to be ready to bid on the broad arrangement of items assembled, for both the Live and Silent Auctions. Our ability to help our beneficiaries this year depends largely on how the bidding goes. Jim Nolan is hoping a few members can spend 10-15 minutes after the event to help clean up.

Lots of birthdays and anniversaries today. Rob Beggs fessed up to celebrating his 70th birthday on April 21 (Pasadena CA), and Bob Nakken celebrated his 73rd birthday on April 27 (Woodland). Gena Bravo and husband Scott plan on celebrating their 12th wedding anniversary coming up on April 24 with a trip to Disneyland; Eric Zane got reminder on his 21st wedding anniversary (St Luke's Church, Woodland) with wife Jennifer on May 1st; and Christian Sherrill appreciated the warning he received on his 21st wedding anniversary with wife Holidae coming up May 8th (Woodland).

Blair Voelz took the lead on Recognition today. After happy time, Blair asked select members to share the things they like to do when they have some free time, and went on to volunteer he likes to raise vegetables and do some hiking when he is not tending to his farming. Jim McGibbon is proud he will have 4 grandchildren attending the University of Notre Dame during the coming year. Lori McGrath was happy about a visit Capitola near Santa Cruz this past weekend. Don Huff III 'rang the bell' for traveling to Maryland last week where he got to hold his granddaughter for the first time.

In response to Blair's question about what you do in your free time, Angela Lynn said when not developing her business she likes to spend time with her son and his sports, along with managing a new puppy and traveling. Barbara Sonin says she likes to tend her container garden and read. Reggie Powell enjoys rock climbing, running, and is getting more involved in ironman competitions.

Long time Woodlanders Larry Love and Kathy Trott with Woodland Opportunity Village, a local affordable housing non-profit organization, were our guest speakers today giving us a look at the Village's first 'Tiny House Project - Freeman Garden Court', a 12 unit development at the SE corner of Freeman Street and Kentucky Avenue which is anticipated to break ground in June '25. Additional information about the project is available in this statement by Woodland Opportunity Village. Thank you to Jim Nolan for arranging for and introducing our speakers today. More about Woodland Opportunity Village can be found at its website:

https://www.woodlandopportunityvillage.org/

April 15th Meeting

President Bob Nakken greeted everyone today with 'Happy Tax Day'. Joe Cadelago introduced his Waste Management colleague Derek Fujii as his guest today. Steve Venables and his wife Lydia are celebrating their 46th wedding anniversary (Carson City NV) today. Steve also celebrated his 83rd birthday (Visalia CA) on April 6th. Woodland Sunrise Rotarians Don Sharp and Byron MacConnell visited us again today.

President Bob introduced ‘Our Own Hero’ Jayne Williams as the leader of today’s Recognition. After taking Happy Time, Jayne posed a series of situations, each with three possible outcomes to and asked which outcome was actually true for that situation. Jayne went around to various tables in the room, and had someone selected to answer one situation. If the selected individual got the correct answer then everyone else at their table paid a fine, but if they were answered incorrectly, they had to pay the fine themselves. Gary Wegener, David Pinto, Dave Molinaro, Dick Hoppin, Eric Sharp, Clyde Brooker and Marie Galbo each stood, but not one of them got the right answer.

Ann Taylor shared that her mare gave birth last Saturday to a black stallion (Onyx, shown above) who is now galloping around her corral. Nick Roncoroni was happy for his daughter Elizabeth whose cheerleading team won the Western Regional Summit Championship in Phoenix last weekend, and will compete again in Rocklin on April 27. Don Huff III enjoyed a visit to Hawaii last week to check on their property, and to make sure the sunsets still go into the sea. ‘Everything is good’ says Don. Shawn Seyk was happy his U-19 Girls Soccer team won ‘big’ in their quarter finals match at the State Cup this past weekend against a short handed opponent. They will go for the finals later this week.

Woodland Police Chief Ryan Kinnan was our guest speaker today, providing us with a look at what is going on with the Woodland Police Department. More about the Department can be found on its website: https://www.cityofwoodland.gov/Directory.aspx?DID=25

April 8th Meeting

President Bob Nakken welcomed a good size crowd today as anticipation and preparations for the April 26th Dinner Auction continues to build. President Bob reminded us there will be no meeting on April 29th AND he announced we will be holding a joint meeting (our first in many years!!) with the Davis Noon Rotary Club on Monday, May 5th from 12:15pm-1:15pm at the Davis Community Church, 4th & C Streets in Davis. $20 per person for lunch. As a result, there will be no regular Club meeting on Tuesday, May 6.

Roger Kohlmeier (born in Los Angeles) and Chuck Maltese (born in Detroit) both celebrated their 85th birthdays today. They received a big "Happy Birthday" seranade from those assembled.

An agitated Chuck Maltese took the helm of Recognition today. Despite being warmed by the birthday song he received earlier, a 'pissed off' Chuck managed to fine a number of members for various greivances. Chuck finished with giving members words used to describe specific animal groups, and asking members to guess which animal they applied to. Tom Schwarzgruber was happy he no longer owned a gravel operation whose trucks regularly spewed rocks on Chuck's windshield in the past. We enjoyed a visit from Woodland Sunrise Rotarian Byron MacConnell again today.

A cautiously optimistic President-elect Aniek Pflager is happy things are coming together for the Club's 2025 Dinner Auction. Aniek urged those who have not already done so to register their dinner tickets for the event by the end of this week so an accurate head count can be provided to the caterer. The Dinner Auction Committee is scheduled to hold its final meeting 5pm Thursday, April 10 at the Woodland Soccer Club office (1059 Court Street, Suite 108). Use the link provided on the top of this page to do so, or if you just can't figure it out, you can call or email Aniek.

Gena Bravo still needs for more donations to the Dessert Auction. Angela Lynn still has Winner's Choice Raffle tickets to sell. If you have already received your tickets please get your payment for them back to Angela.

Peter Holmes is excited about the extensive Oral Auction list of items being offered this year. It includes a variety of overnight lodgings at attractive locations in Hawaii, the Sierra Nevadas, and elsewhere; baseball tickets for both the Giants in San Francisco, and the (now Los Vegas) A's playing in West Sacramento; special dinners; wine tasting trips; a full day fishing trip; lots of wine; a local farm tour; and golf at one of best courses in Northern California. Be ready to bid!

Our guest speaker today was Kellie Morgan, President/Owner of the Yolo Eats Restaurant Group who, along with General Manager Tito De La Torre, and Accounting/Personnel Manager (and daughter) Kalie Morgan, gave us a look at the development and offerings of their four eateries in Woodland - Morgan's on Main, Maria's Cantina, Morgan's Mill, and the Yolo Eats Food Truck. Thanks to Shawn Seyk for arranging for and introducing our program guests today. More about Yolo Eats Restaurant Group can be found at its website: https://www.yoloeats.com/

April 1st Meeting

With less than four weeks to go, President-elect Aniek Plager has preparations for the Club's April 26th Dinner Auction at Velocity Island Resort coming together. Blair Voelz and Lori McGrath are taking in donations for the silent auction. Angela Lynn has distributed almost 100 of the 200 Winners Choice Raffle tickets and is looking for members to return payments to her on tickets distributed. Mark Ullrich says he and Roger Kohlmeier have received nearly $10,000 in sponsorships so far, but more are available. Gena Bravo is looking for Club members to join Dignity Health members in making donations of cakes, pies, cookies and other desserts for the dessert auction to be held that evening. Gregg Kowes is continuing to accept member donations of two bottles of good quality wine ($20+ value) for the Wheel Barrel of Wine auction item.

Peter Holmes continued highlighting key items that will be on the oral auction this year:

Dan Stroski is again taking 6 people on a wine tasting trip in his fancy motor home to the Rendez-vous Winery in Clarksburg to try their award winning and popular wines including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Barbera and others. Must be taken in 2025.

Dave Molinaro and Kim O'Brien are offering 6 bottles of various, select wines from the renown Caymus Vineyards.

Blair and Jan Voelz are offering a tour of their farm which dates back to 1870, located on the Colusa-Yolo county line, a 30 minute drive from Woodland, where they grow grapes for wine, olives for oil and rice. Can include up to 10 friends or family members. Visit in the spring when we plant, in the summer when things are growing, in the fall during harvest, or in the winter when the waterfowl are flying.

(NEW!!) Ann Taylor's son Lux and his wife Robin are offering their stunning 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home (shown below) located on the west shore of Donner Lake with public beach access, for a 7-night luxury retreat in either June or October 2025.

Yvette Roy led today's Recognition with questions around April Fools Day. Yvette offered to give people a trivia question or share a memorable April Fools Day story. David Pinto chose to take a question, which he found out the answer to was 'The Liberty Bell'. Byron MacConnell was happy he started working with partner Don Sharp 9 years ago today. President Bob Nakken enjoyed having his daughter Alyssa and her family visiting this weekend. Two weeks after hip replacement surgery, Les Engelmann is looking and feeling pretty spry! Lori McGrath enjoyed attending last night's first game of the the Las Vegas A's in their temporary home in West Sacramento.

In addition to visiting Woodland Sunrise Rotarians Byron MacConnell and Don Sharp who joined us today, Jayne Williams introduced Julie Webb as one of her guests.

Woodland High School Interact students Yocelyn and Salote, guests of Jayne Williams today, gave thanks to Eric Zane and Kevin Haarberg for recent talks they had about career choices with members of the Interact Club. Woodland High School's Interact Club is sponsored by Woodland Rotary.

Our program speaker today was our own Jayne Williams, who followed up on the recently sponsored 'An Unhoused Conversation' conducted with the sponsorship of the three Woodland Rotary Clubs. She concentrated on the efforts her non-profit organization, All Leaders Must Serve (ALMS), are making to help keep local young people from falling into homelessness. More about ALMS can be found on its website: https://www.allleadersmustserve.org/

March 25th Meeting

President Bob Nakken was at the helm of today's meeting and got his wish for a female voice to help with Rotary Grace when our server Jordi Richter joined Dan Stroski and Steve Venables.

Joe Cadelago celebrated his 46th birthday on March 19th (Vallejo). Gregg Kowes was celebrating his 45th birthday (Grass Valley) TODAY, so he was serenaded by everyone with 'Happy Birthday To You'.

Peter Holmes and Clyde Brooker reported an exciting lineup of oral auction items is developing for the Club's 2025 Dinner Auction on April 26th. They highlighted the following items:

Two-night stay at the Durant Vineyard & Olive Mill in Dayton OR will be back again this year with lodgings improved to a hillside cottage over the vineyards. Thanks to Blair Voelz for arranging.

(NEW!) A paella dinner for eight (8) at the Roy home, offered by the women members of our Club. Jordi Richter will be serving.

(NEW!) With the Las Vegas A's playing baseball at Raley Field in West Sacramento the next three years, the Club's past presidents are offering a suite for 20 people to an A's game this season. A show of hands indicated there was interest in bidding on this opportunity to see major league baseball in Yolo County. Clyde Brooker is coordinating.

Oh, hold your noses, but we will be offering a truckload (about 25 tons) of compost from Lopez Ag again this year.

Today's guests included visiting Rotarians Don Sharp and Byron MacConnell from Woodland Sunrise; Dan Stroski introduced his exchange student son Andy; and former member Frits van der Hoek joined us.

Lori Ross was in charge of today's Recognition and was happy she has secured an office for herself near the Hotel so she can attend more Club meetings. Don Huff III was happy he just finished his first field of tomato transplants, and? for skier Lindsey Vonn, who at the age of 40 years, won a World Cup race over the weekend for the first time since retiring from the circuit due to injuries back in 2018. Karl Diekman rejoined us after an extended absense, and 'rang the bell' reporting he has a new home in Bang Saen Beach, Thailand. Kevin Haarberg and wife Lorie had a great time on their annual vacation to Cabo San Lucas. Lori went on to ask a series of questions of people with birthdays in March, giving details on famous and seeing who can guess the correct name ('Who Am I').

Salvador Ramirez, Executive Director, Yolo Farm to Fork, was our guest speaker today, giving us a look at what Yolo Farm to Fork, one of the beneficiaries of this year's Dinner Auction, does with helping young people learn about food. More about Yolo Farm to Fork can be found at its website: https://www.yolofarmtofork.org/

March 18th Meeting

President Bob Nakken greeted a modest size crowd today. Attendance is likely down due to several members attending Spring training baseball. It was a sunny, yet still cool winter day. President Bob wanted everyone to remember we are the Original Rotary Club in Woodland and still the best!? Back for more, Jim Nolan joined Dan Stroski and Steve Venables today to get us going on Rotary Grace. President Bob also told us progress is being made by Yolo County Rotary Clubs in the development of an observation platform at the Woodland Regional Park Preserve, and of the related article appearing in the Daily Democrat today. To view the Daily Democrat article go to: https://www.dailydemocrat.com/2025/03/18/rotary-clubs-to-build-pavilion-at-regional-park/

With the pot at $125 and 25 cards to choose from, Byron MacConnell drew a free lunch. Angela Lynn celebrated her 46^th birthday on March 13^th (Woodland). We were joined by Woodland Sunrise Rotarians Byron MacConnell and Don Sharp. In addition to our guest speaker, Lori McGrath introduced Raylene Ewing, past President of Luna Vista Rotary, and a Native Daughter of the Golden West member. Tim Pettit introduced his guest and son-in-law, Darren Glenn.

Chuck Maltese distributed signup sheets for those interested in participating in the 2025 Rotary Mystery Golf Tour on Wednesday, May 7. Price has risen to $140 per player for transportation, golf, cart, range balls, lunch & fellowship. If interested, sign up with Chuck now. Clyde Brooker took the helm on today’s Recognition. Following happy time, Clyde raised funds by asking selected members the meaning of familiar phrases often used by folks with southern roots. President-elect Aniek Pflager is feeling upbeat on preparations underway for the Club’s 2025 Annual Dinner coming up Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the Silos at Velocity Island Park. She urged everyone to register your dinner tickets, the ones you have already paid for, and others you want to purchase, on Eventbrite:

Rotary Dinner & Auction - Purchase tickets here

David Pinto enjoyed a 21 day trip to India, including stops in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and stayed healthy despite staying at a different friends home nearly every day.

Our guest speaker today was Renee Rianda, Grand Marshall, Native Daughters of the Golden West (NDGW). Renee was introduced by our own Lori McGrath who, along with Renee, are members of the Native Daughters Woodland Parlor #90. Two years from now, Renee will become the NDGW President.Today, Renee and Lori combined to tell us about the ‘Native Daughters of Golden West’. More information about the Native Daughters of the Golden West can be found at its website: https://www.ndgw.org/

March 11th Meeting

President Bob Nakken welcomed everyone to our meeting today. Missing our normal duo, rookies Jim Nolan and Don Huff III, volunteered to get us going on Rotary Grace nearly on key!

We were happy to have Jayne Williams back with us today, so we could properly congratulate her on being named Yolo County Hero by the Daily Democrat last month. Les Engelmann is looking for more Meals on Wheels volunteers to help deliver meals locally. Contact Les for details.

President-elect Aniek Pflager updated us on preparations for the 2025 Dinner Auction at the Silos at Velocity Island Resort coming up April 26, with a detailed reminder of the beneficiaries we hope to fund from this event. Gregg Kowes is handling the Wheel Barrel of Wine auction item and encourages every member to bring in two bottles of good quality ($20+ value) wine to donate. Blair Voelz and Lori McGrath are still urging members to donate items for the silent auction. Even if you don't have the specific item yet, just let Blair or Lori know by April 1 you are working on it. Angela Lynn was distributing Winners Choice Raffle tickets to members, reminding us each member is asked to purchase of sell at least two of these raffle tickets. Trip choices are outlined on the tickets. Only 200 tickets will be sold.

Don Huff III was in charge of today's Recognition, asking about names in the latest Splinter. Rob Beggs was happy about a his recent lobbying trip to Washington DC with his conservatives for climate change group. Ann Taylor offered a supply of eggs from her hens for the Dinner Auction. George Burger 'rang the bell' with a contribution to help his grandson Ryan Burger earn his first Paul Harris Fellowship. Shawn Seyk was happy his girls soccer team won their latest match against Davis.

Xochitl Rodriguez Murrillo, Deputy Secretary, Minority Veterans Affairs, California Department of Veterans Affairs, and her colleage, Michael Cisneros, Training Coordinator, CalVET, were our guest speakers today, providing program on the benefits for California veterans offered by CalVet. More about the CalVet can be found at its website: https://www.calvet.ca.gov/about-us

March 4th Meeting

Gary Wegener ‘rang the bell’ since he is celebrating his 77^th birthday (Detroit MI) today. We sang ‘Happy Birthday’ to him. President-elect Aniek Pflager ‘rang the bell’ in memory of the Club’s February 22, 2005 meeting which was her first as a member; and this weekend she will be in San Jose attending Rotary’s President-elect training session (AKA ‘PETS’) to get ready for her year as President which starts this July.

Reggie Powell was happy the weather has been improving, so he ran in a marathon (26.2 miles!!!) over the weekend and recorded a personal-best time. Dan Stroski was today’s ‘Fine Master’, first charging those who were not wearing their Club badge today. Next, in honor of President’s Day, Dan asked a series of multiple choice questions about famous quotations made by our country’s Presidents. Some questions were pretty easy (WHO SAID: 'Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.? ANSWER: John F Kennedy), while others where more difficult (WHO SAID: I walk slowly, but I never walk backwards.' ? ANSWER: Abraham Lincoln). Ryan Burger, Kevin Haarberg, Tom Schwarzgruber, Blair Voelz, Shawn Seyk and Roger Kohlmeier each identified the President who authored the quote they were given, so the member to their right had a pay a fine. Jim Nolan, Mark Ullrich, Clyde Brooker, Wendy Casas-Raviotta and Steve Venables all got the wrong answers and had to pay their own fine. Our Presidential scholars are shown above.

February 25th Meeting

Mark Ullrich was in charge of today's Recognition, and he recognized Jayne Williams for having been named 'Yolo County Hero' by the Daily Democrat over the weekend. Though Jayne was not in attendance today, Mark expressed how proud we are for the honor she has worked hard to achieve. View the complete Daily Democrat article about the award at https://edition.pagesuite.com/popovers/dynamic_article_popover.aspx?guid=8dfc37fd-aacf-4e27-83a4-2b6f9c7f9ccd&appcode=DAI215&eguid=bf60d8b9-12e5-4776-9688-6b4e9f18211c&pnum=1

Woodland Sunrise Rotarians Don Sharp and Byron MacConnell joined us again today. While Jayne Williams wasn't with us today, her guest, Dina McWashington was. Reggie Powell did the honors of introducing Dina. Steve Venables introduced local resident Tibi Forca, who saw we were holding a meeting and decided to stop by.

We were happy to welcome George Burger back after having recovered from some time in the hospital. Jim Nolan reported the 'Unhoused Conversation' event, sponsored by the three Woodland Rotary Clubs, last Saturday morning at Woodland Community College's Performing Arts Center, as a big success. Shawn Seyk was celebrating his birthday today (1971 in Baltimore MD), so we serenaded him with 'Happy Birthday'. Chuck Maltese announced the Rotary Mystery Golf Trip is set to take place Wednesday, May 7 this year. More details to come.

With 19 cards to choose from, Mark Ullrich found the joker to win the $290 pot! President-elect Aniek Pflager briefed us the latest preparations for the Club's 2025 Dinner Auction coming up April 26. She said we are still looking for oral auction and silent auction donations, as well as sponsors, to make the event a success. Grand prizes raffle tickets are expected to be distributed to members for sale or purchase next Tuesday.

udrat Rahimhodzhayev, President, Uzbek Community Center of San Francisco Bay Area and health professional at UCSF St. Josephs Hospital, was our guest speaker today. Assisted by colleague Muza Farr, Qudrat provided us with a program 'Uzbekistan - A Comprehensive Overview'. Thanks to Lori McGrath for arranging for and introducing our speaker today. Qudrat is a native of Uzbekistan, and wanted to introduce us to this independent, Islamic and landlocked country with a population of 39 million in Central Asia. He gave us an understanding of its history, culture and the people of Uzbekistan, and even brought along some rice pilaf and honeycake prepared in the native style for us to sample. To view more of the visual slides of Uzbekistan presented by our speaker click here.

North American Youth Exchange Network

Conference 2025

Dan Stroski, Rotary District 5160 Youth Exchange Inbound Coordinator, attended the 2025 North American Youth Exchange Network (NAYEN) Conference along with his wife Ginny and over 400 other Rotarians February 20-22 in Merida, Mexico.

Meet Our New Member -

Ryan Burger

Ryan Burger, sponsored by his father Jeff Burger, was installed as a new member of the Club on February 11, 2025 by President Bob Nakken. At our request, Ryan provided the following bio. If you haven't already done so, please take a moment to introduce yourself to Ryan when you meet and welcome him to the Club.

As a Woodland native, I have had the pleasure of growing up in this fine town. My family has lived in the area for quite some time with my mother, Lea Burger, who is from Arbuckle and my father, Jeff Burger, from Dunnigan. I went through Woodland’s school system starting at St. John’s Preschool and ending at Woodland High School, after which I spent a brief period in Merced, CA where I acquired a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of California, Merced.

After graduating college, I moved back to Woodland where I acquired my real estate license. I currently help my fellow community members in Yolo County, as well as surrounding counties, buy or sell their homes. I am one of five members of a team within RE/MAX Gold led by Don Sharp, who is a fellow Rotarian and another of the members is my father, who is also a Rotarian. I thoroughly enjoy what I do for work and one of my favorite parts of the job is networking and meeting new people, which is part of my motivation for joining Rotary.

In addition to being a member of Rotary, I am also the 2025 Chair of the Young Professionals Network (YPN) and an active Toastmasters member. YPN is a group that helps new real estate agents engage with their community as well as providing education to ensure our clients are getting the best service possible. Toastmasters, as an organization, has been around for a very long time but our club is fairly new, and its members share the goal of developing public speaking skills through practice and education.

As a third generation Rotary Member (with my father and my grandfather George Burger), I understand the positive impact this organization has on our community, and I am excited to be a part of it. I am looking forward to supporting the town I have been able to call home my whole life as well as making new connections and meeting like-minded individuals who share my passion for further building our community.

February 18th Meeting

President Bob Nakken got us started on a busy day. Steve Venables had to lead Rotary Grace all by himself since his cohort was traveling. In addition to our regular visiting Woodland Sunrise Rotarians Don Sharp & Byron MacConnell, we also welcomed Jayne Williams' guest Dina McWashington to our meeting today.

President-elect Aniek Pflager reminded us our Dinner Auction is just two months away. We need to get ready NOW! Blair Voelz and Lori McGrath need our help getting Silent Auction items donated. He distributed a letter (see below) that each of us can use to solicit donations. Mark Ullrich, along with Roger Kohlmeier are again seeking sponsors for the Dinner Auction and distributed a Sponsorship Registration form to obtain your sponsorship. If you haven't already done so, register your dinner tickets already purchased by using the QR code (EventBrite) on the event flyer. Additional dinner tickets can be purchased there too. Kevin Haarberg will once again be our Auctioneer. Gregg Kowes has agreed to 'head up' the Wine Wagon effort this year and will begin asking each of us for some good wine donations in March. Grand prize raffle tickets will soon be available for members to purchase or sell @ $100.

President Bob was a little miffed he had to oversee today's Recognition since no one had been assigned. Recognition Chair Kevin Haarberg was absent, so President Bob fined all Recognition Committee members as a result. After taking happy time, President Bob asked for stories about how we spent our Valentines Day. Mike Chandler celebrated his 76th birthday on Feb 1 (Woodland). Shawn Seyk was proud of and happy for his daughter who recently won a business plan competition with other high school and college students. While this year was a little quiet, Marie Galbo has great memories of earlier Valentines Days. Steve Venables passed out about 15 boxes of chocolates to several Valentines this year.

Yolo County District Attorney's Office Investigators (in top photo, left to right) Paul Doroshov, Nate Hutson, and Brett Hancock, were our guest speakers today, giving us a program on 'Protecting Against Fraud', and the extensive forms of fraudulant activity they work on. Find the complete set of the visual slides they presented on the subject at Info on Past Programs page on this website. More information about the Yolo County District Attorney's Office can be found at https://yoloda.org/

Meet Our New Member -

Gregg Kowes

Gregg Kowes, sponsored by Brian Dwyer, was installed as a new member of the Club on January 7, 2025 by President Bob Nakken. At our request, Gregg provided the following bio. If you haven't already done so, please take a moment to introduce yourself to Gregg when you meet and welcome him to the Club.

I was born in Grass Valley CA but moved to Woodland at the very young age of 1. After graduating from Woodland High School, I attended American River College and then to the University of Phoenix.

After college I started working at Woodland Davis Termite and Pest control. I worked there for 12 years before becoming an owner in 2018.

I got married in 2006 to my wife Kim and we have 3 wonderful boys. My oldest son Nick works with me at the pest control company and our 2 younger sons Tyler and Brett attend Woodland Christian School. They are involved in football, baseball, and FFA programs which keep me very busy.

I served on the Woodland Little league board for 8 years until my sons aged out. Coaching has been my passion for many years. I coached the Woodland High JV baseball team for 6 years and then it was time to coach my boy’s baseball teams which included little league teams and their travel baseball teams.

These days I enjoy walking my two dogs Vinny and Deebo in the Davis Arboretum and golfing at Yolo Fliers Club.

GEORGE M BERRETTONI

MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

George Berrettoni was a 41-year member of the Rotary Club of Woodland, serving as Club President in the 1997-98 Rotary Year. George was actively involved in the Club and with the Boy Scouts of America as well as being a regular donor of blood. After George passed in 2018 the Woodland Rotary Endowment raised money to start this Memorial Scholarship in his honor.

Amount: $2,500.00

Purpose: Any Woodland CA student graduating from high school with a cumulative 3.00 grade point average or higher and who will be attending a college, university or trade school is eligible. Applicants must complete and submit an application (see link below) asking for personal information in order to determine their eligibility and need. The scholarship is targeted towards students with limited financial resources or access to grants. Preference will be given to a student attending the University of Santa Clara (George's alma mater); a person involved in the scouting program, experience as a blood donor (as George was); a finance or business major; and a demonstrated ability to overcome adversity and work hard.

2024-25 Award: Tabb Randolph recently announced that to be considered for the 2024-25 award, completed applications must be received at either the Woodland Rotary Club Post Office Box (PO Box 31 Woodland CA 95776) or via email to Tabb Randolph at tabbr001@gmail.com no later than March 15. Questions? Contact Tabb at 530 304-6652.

APPLICATION

February 11th Meeting

President Bob Nakken welcomed Ryan Burger as the newest member of the Club today. Ryan was sponsored by his father, Jeff Burger. We now have three generations of Burgers as Club members - George, Jeff and Ryan. President Bob also 'recognized' Jayne Williams for having been nominated by the Daily Democrat as one of Yolo County's Heroes. (The complete article can be read at: (https://www.dailydemocrat.com/2025/02/09/jayne-williams-aims-to-prepare-yolo-countys-young-people-for-success-yolo-county-heroes-nominee/). Jayne also shared with us her students at All Leaders Must Serve (ALMS) recently enjoyed hearing from Fire Chief Eric Zane about what it takes to work in the fire service, and that Kevin Haarberg is set to speak soon with those students about working in the financial services sector. Jayne is looking for other Club members volunteer to speak to ALMS students about their professions to help these young people get ready for their futures. Contact Jayne if you can help.

Visiting Rotarians Debbie Koo (Moraga) and Brad Miller (Woodland Luna Vista) joined us today in support of the Rotary sponsored event 'An Unhoused Conversation', on the subject of homelessness, coming up Saturday, Feb 22 from 9am-Noon at Woodland Community College's new Performing Arts Theater. The event is free of charge and open to the public, however registration is requested. Jayne Williams is our Club's contact. More about this event is available in this Daily Democrat article: https://www.dailydemocrat.com/2025/02/06/rotarians-collaborate-to-learn-more-about-homelessness/

Tabb Randolph got an early warning on his 38th wedding anniversary with wife Nancy on Feb 14 (Mt Vernon WA). Les Engelmann celebrated his 79th birthday (Joliet IL) on Feb 8.

Christian Sherrill took charge of today's Recognition with a look at 'Roommates 101'. Christian had some real card sharks as roommates in college. Mark Ullrich was happy his son Brian has started working in his office and may be considering a career change. We were delighted to see, among our other guests today, the familiar face of former member Roger Dorris. Gary Wegener and wife Joanie enjoyed a performance of 'Amelie' at the Woodland Opera House this weekend, an event 'presented' by our own Kevin Haarberg and Roger Kohlmeier and their wives. Gary Bunch had a great trip to Hawaii.

Our own Eric Zane, Fire Chief of the City of Woodland, was our program speaker today giving us a look at 'WOODLAND FIRE and Response to LA Wildfires', about Woodland Fire's Strike Team that traveled to Los Angeles last month to work on the Eaton Fire. Chief Zane, who also serves as the Operational Area Coordinator for Yolo County and manages mutual aid requests made for fire personnel and apparatus from Yolo agencies, explained the resources involved, the experiences of the strike team, and the costs and challenges involved, including why water was not always available from fire hydrants. There were lots of questions asked. We thank Eric for providing this very informative program to us.

February 4th Meeting

President Bob Nakken welcomed us on a rainy winter day giving thanks the numerous members who keep the Club operating. We were joined once again by visiting Woodland Sunrise Rotarians Byron MacConnell and Don Sharp. Jeff Burger introduced his guest, son, Ryan Burger who is also a prospective new member. Jeff also gave us news that his father George is recovering from successful surgery this morning.

Jim Nolan, sporting a special tee-shirt about his topic, took on Recognition today with questions about Black History Month. Peter Holmes got an early warning on his 41st wedding anniversary with wife Christine (married in San Diego) coming up Feb 11. Don Huff III 'rang the bell' announcing today's birth of his granddaughter Elliot Georgiagrace Huff in Great Falls MT (8lbs, 7oz) to parents Brandon and Annettia ('Netta') Huff . Blair Voelz got a not-so-early warning on his 53rd wedding anniversary with wife Jan (married in Sacramento) today. Blair also told us he attended the Rotary District 5160's Foundation Day Grants Training on Feb 1, enabling the Club to apply for Rotary Grants next year. Lori Ross gave us a report and shared a short video from the Club's donation of children's books to kindergarten and first grade students at Gibson School on Jan 23.

? President-elect Aniek Pflager told us plans for the Club's 2025 Dinner Auction at Velocity Island Park on April 26 for moving forward. Members are encouraged to get involved by:

registering dinner tickets already already using the QR code (EventBrite) on the event flyer; additional dinner tickets can also be purchased there
bringing in donations for the event's silent auction
bringing in two bottles of good quality wine ($20 or higher value) for donation to the wheelbarrell of wine to be auctioned off at the event
consider sponsoring the event via Mark Ullrich and Roger Kohlmeier
Grand prize raffle tickets will soon be made available for members to purchase or sell @ $100

Melissa Moreno, PhD, Ethnic Studies Faculty, Woodland Community College was our guest speaker today, giving us a presentation on 'History of the Yolo Bracero Program' which was part of a nationwide effort to address labor shortages in the agriculture and farming industries from 1942-62 , and was especially active in Yolo County and left an extensive legacy. Thank you to Program Coordinator Wendy Casas-Raviotta who arranged for and introduced our speaker today. A CBS13 report on Yolo County's efforts to honor the local Bracero Program can be viewed at: https://www.cbsnews.com/sacramento/news/yolo-county-honors-legacy-of-mexican-braceros-and-their-descendants/

Meet Our New Member -

Joe Cadelago

Joe Cadelago, sponsored by Mark Ullrich, was installed as a new member of the Club on January 7, 2025 by President Bob Nakken. At our request, Joe provided the following bio. If you haven't already done so, please take a moment to introduce yourself to Joe when you meet and welcome him to the Club.

I was born in Vallejo and grew up in Napa. I spent my entire childhood there until I was 20 after I finished my associates degree at Napa Valley Junior College. Napa was a great place to grow up in the 80’s and early 90’s, until the city removed most of the fun things for kids as it moved towards a tourist-centric destination place. My grandparents on my mother’s side met during WWII in England and relocated to Napa. My grandparents on my father’s side immigrated from Italy and relocated to San Francisco. My parents met in Napa when my father moved to Napa from SF to start his music teaching career which he had for 38 years before he retired. My mother was also a music educator and balanced that as a full-time mother to myself and my two siblings. I have an older sister that lives in Roseville, and a younger brother that lives in Seattle.

After graduating from Napa Valley Junior College, I transferred to Chico State. I chose Chico State for two primary reasons: my great uncle was one of the founders of the Chico agricultural department and always spoke fondly of the community and the school. In addition, I found Chico to be a college that was just far enough away where my parents couldn’t easily visit often, but close enough to go home to visit when needed. I also heard Chico was a great place to develop my social skills and that proved to be true.

I received my degree in Political Science and spent the first several years of my career working for various political entities. This included my first career job as the mailroom assistant to Arnold Schwarzenegger when he was elected Governor. To this day, it’s still one of my favorite jobs. I had a variety of roles in the administration, and finished after I completed my time as his political director for Northern CA. For the past 15 years I’ve been with Waste Management (WM) managing the business contracts between the company and various local jurisdictions. My primary office is in Woodland, and I also manage a team of recycling coordinators in Yolo County.

I met my wife Amanda at a party at Chico State within a few weeks of transferring there, and we’ve now been married almost 22 years. We don’t have kids of our own, but we fostered three siblings from Woodland for several months and it was a life-changing experience for us and them. We currently live in Carmichael and have two dogs, a Weimaraner (Watson) and an Aussie-doodle (Mabel). Amanda and I love to travel, and have been to Sweden, Italy, France and England in the past few years. My personal hobbies include road cycling, volunteering in the community, family time, and doing my best to enjoy life each day.

I was previously a member of the Pacific Grove Rotary Club and a Paul Harris Fellow. Tuesday lunch meetings were at Spanish Bay with ocean views. Miss those meetings but am excited to be part of the Woodland noon-club and looking forward to contributing and participating.

January 28th Meeting

Its what's up BACK that counts!! The first thing we see when arriving at our meetings are the (mostly) smiling faces at our back table. Dan Stroski, Carl Rodegerdts, Aniek Pflager and (eventually) Gary Bunch give us raffles tickets, take our money and sign us up for the right events. Dan Stroski and Steve Venables got us going on today's Rotary Grace.

Blair Voelz was in charge of today's Recognition, asking a series of questions about local agriculture. Blair recognized one of our newest members, Joe Cadelago for receiving the 2025 Volunteer of the Year Award from the West Sacramento Chamber of Commerce on Jan 16. Jayne Williams reports the three Woodland Rotary Clubs are being asked to sponsor a public presentation on homelessness called 'An Unhoused Conversation' at the Woodland Community College Performing Arts Theater from 9am-Noon on Saturday, February 22. Aniek Pflager is calling for volunteers for the Club's Annual Dinner Auction April 26th at Velocity Island Park. Dan Stroski is looking for a local family that can host an inbound youth exchange student (female) for four months next school year. Contact Dan if you or someone you know can help.

Woodland Sunrise Rotarian Don Sharp was our only visitor today. Reggie Powell and his wife Blythe celebrated their 8th anniversary on Jan 26. They were married at the Santa Barbara History Museum.

Our former member, Frits van der Hoek, Supervising Deputy District Attorney, Yolo County District Attorney's Office, was our guest speaker today, giving us a look at Proposition 36 which was overwhelmingly passed by California voters last November. Thanks to Frits' colleague at the Yolo DA's office, Preston Schaub who introduced our speaker. More about Proposition 36 can be found on the Yolo DA's website: https://yoloda.org/prop36/

Rotary Gives Children's Books

to Gibson School Kids

Lori Ross reports our Club presented the kindergarten and first grade students at Gibson School with their own personal copies of children's books on January 23. The author of the books, Leticia Ordaz, along with Club President Bob Nakken, members Lori McGrath, Gary Wegener and Woodland Sunrise Rotarian Wayne Ginzburg were also on hand to make the presentation. Thank you to Kelly Timothy, Gibson School Vice Principal and Acting Principal for making the presentation possible.

January 21st Meeting

President Bob Nakken once again welcomed everyone to our meeting today. Winters Rotarian Woody Fridae, who is also the District 5160 Governor Nominee (will serve as DG in 2026-27), presented President Bob with an acknowledgement from the Rotary Foundation of the financial support several Club members have provided the End Polio Now: Countdown to History Campaign through pledges to provide $100 or more annually until worldwide eradication of polio is achieved.

Jayne Williams took charge of today's Recognition with a focus on Martin Luther King, Jr. Ever the fund raiser, Jayne started by asking every Club member who was alive when Dr. King was assasinated in Memphis TN on April 4, 1968 to standup. Everyone not standing was fined $5. She then asked several trivia questions about Dr. King's life. Lori Ross was happy the braces were recently removed from her teeth (What a smile!). Gary Wegener was happy the Rotary banners he collected and brought back from his 2014 motorocycle tour across Russia were now hanging on the wall.

After winning the 50/50 raffle for $1,100 last Dec 10, Dick Hoppin continued his winning ways today. With $169 in the pot and and 24 cards Dick's ticket was drawn again, but got a free lunch this time. Jeff Burger introduced his son, and prospective new Club member, Ryan Burger as his guest today. In addition to Woody Fridae, we were also joined by visiting Woodland Sunrise Rotarian Byron MacConnell today.

John Goodwin, a former Mayor of Colma CA, was our guest speaker today, giving us a look at his extensive and eventful 27 year career as a Ranger with the National Park Service. Thanks to Lori McGrath who arranged for and introduced our speaker today. Copies of John Goodwin's memoir, 'Echoes of the Badge', are available for sale at Amazon and Barnes & Nobel.

January 14th Meeting

Assisted by President Bob Nakken, Club members today voted unanimously to set Yolo Farm to Fork and Woodland Healthcare Foundation as the beneficiary organizations for antipated proceeds from the Club's 2025 Dinner Auction scheduled for Saturday, April 26 at Veloscity Island Park. The specific projects to be funded are:

YOLO FARM TO FORK – Up to $11,000 for construction of two large instructional gazebos for the outdoor edible gardens at Beamer Elementary and Gibson Elementary schools. Currently the gardens are not shaded and have no seating. Materials will be procured from local suppliers, individuals and firms for the construction. The structures will provide an outdoor classroom (shaded with seating) for teachers, staff, volunteers and students to learn about outdoor gardening. Construction is planned to be completed by August 2025. This is the first priority for Auction proceed funding.

WOODLAND HEALTHCARE FOUNDATION – The balance of 2025 Dinner Auction proceeds, up to $38,387, would be used to complete the purchase of state-of-the-art surgical tool to assist in orthopedic surgeries. The equipment is radio-graphic camera technology (x-ray machine) called the C-Arm (due to its shape) and is used in spinal, hip, knee and other orthopedic surgeries. Woodland Healthcare already has 4 C-Arms, but with demand for use all are in operation creating 30-minute or longer delays in some surgeries. The new machine will have updated technology including the ability to capture precise measurements and a map for surgeons to use. The new machine captures 3-D imaging allowing surgeons to view a multi plane image. The machine allows for precise confirmation and analysis of structures not currently available with the existing machines. The total cost of this C-Arm is $399,467, and the Foundation has assembled all but the requested amount, $38,387.

President Bob emphasized funding of these proposals depends on achieving the proceeds.

Chuck Maltese oversaw today’s Recognition, asking respondents to provide either your resolutions for the new year, holiday travel stories, or recommendations on ‘what do we need in Woodland? Chuck volunteered his personal resolution was to lose 10lbs in the new year, and shared he now has only 14lbs left to go! Don Huff III and Dave Molinaro both had a fun trip to Texas over the holidays to hunt for sandhill cranes. Unfortunately, the cranes never got the memo and weren’t there to hunt. Dave did enjoy a diner they found in Littlefield TX, otherwise they never left their lodgings. Ann Taylor had a full house over the holidays including her sons and their families, which she housed for three days. She was delighted, and happy when they left. Christian Sherrill thinks Woodland needs a good Italian restaurant; an idea supported by a few others. Ernie ‘Redskin’ Hodges was happy his Washington Commanders were the only victorious visiting team in this past weekend’s NFL playoff games.

Our regular visiting Woodland Sunrise Rotarian friends Byron MacConnell and Don Sharp joined us once again today.

Martha Michel, President of the Folklorico Latino de Woodland, was our guest program speaker today giving us an overview of their organization. More about Folkloric Latino de Woodland can be found at its website: http://www.folkloricolatinodewoodland.org/

January 7th Meeting

President Bob Nakken welcomed a good turnout (nearly 40 attendees) to our first meeting of 2025. President Bob inducted two new members to the Club today. Gregg Kowes (left), Manager, Woodland-Davis Pest Control (sponsored by Brian Dwyer), and Joe Cadelago, Public Sector Services Manager, Waste Management (sponsored by Mark Ullrich). If you haven't already done so, please introduce yourself to these new members.

Wendy Casas-Raviotta introduced her guest today, Linda Pillard. Familiar Woodland Sunrise Rotarians Don Sharp and Byron MacConnell also joined us today.

Lori Ross reported the Club will be presenting kindergarten & 1st graders at Gibson School with gifts of children's books at 8:30am on Thursday, January 23, as discussed in a November 12, 2024 presentation by author Leticia Ordaz to the Club. Lori is looking for 5-6 members to join her that day for the presentation. Contact Lori beforehand at 530 867-1900 if you can do so. The Woodland Rotary Endowment contributed $2,000 from its Community Fund to purchase 130 children's books from Cieleto Lindo Books for this project.

Jim McGibbon was pleased to report the 2019 project, which our Woodland Rotary Club co-sponsored, to aid medically underserved patients in northern Nicaragua has finally succeeded by graduating its first graduating classes of dentists and optometrists in December 2024 after 3 years of supervised training of local high school graduates by faculty members of the University of Managua. Later this year, the first class of 2025 family doctors will graduate from their 4-year courses.The UNICAM, (or 'University in the Country' ), created near Tuma-La Dalia in this region by this project will continue to produce graduates in all three specialties.

Yvette Roy took charge of today's Recognition, fining everyone who was NOT awake to ring in the New Year, and asking several questions about the history of our Club. David Pinto enjoyed a great family trip to Tenerife, Spain and Marrakech, Morocco over the holidays. He also celebrated a his 33rd wedding anniversary with wife Rebecca on Jan 4, and his 62nd birthday ('Old' Delhi, India) on Jan 5. Barbara Sonin was happy she visited her three children and 7 grand children over the holidays. Kevin Haarberg gave us greetings from former Club member and Past President Charlie Rayl. Peter Holmes 'rang the bell' in celebration of his 'Medicare' birthday (Fresno CA) on Jan 6.

Our own Shawn Seyk was our program speaker today, giving us an look at 'What is Bitcoin?'.