Call to Order
Meeting called to order by President Paul Johnson at 12:30pm.
Pledge of Allegiance
Ron Cassel led the pledge of allegiance.
Ron Cassel led the pledge of allegiance.
Inspiration
True Story: Jeffrey Barnett gave our inspirational message about falling in love with a transfer student in High School; she wore the same dress every day. Looking back, Jeffrey compares the girl, who was making a statement of her individuality; a non-conformist, modest, smart, and thoughtful to Rotarians, who use their energy to better our community, to help others, and are committed to service through Rotary.
Visitors
Gail West, guest, and neighbor of Terri Trotter
Greg Heller, son of Sue Heller
Gail West, guest, and neighbor of Terri Trotter
Greg Heller, son of Sue Heller
Decor
Decorated eggs St. Lukes Pantry—St. Patrick’s Day!
Thank you, Kathie, and Randy!
Blue Badge Bio
Michelle Mattson
Born in Chicago, raised by a strong mother.
When she was 2 years old, her mother hitchhiked from Chicago to California with Michelle.
Michelle’s first experience in service was being a member of Brownies, where she earned badges. Her mother took her to visit senior centers, where the residents delighted with the curly, red-haired girl.
Her mother taught her the importance of service to others.
Michelle attended Bethany College in the Santa Cruz mountains, where she met her husband. They built a life there.
She was involved with Foster Care and adoptions and wanted to adopt a child she had cared for; but the child returned to her father’s care. Michelle has stayed connected all these years.
She has worked in advocacy, fund raising, and Homeless Services; as well as working at “Unchained,” whose mission is to foster empathy, respect, and responsibility in youth through the human-animal bond. Michelle has two dogs she loves.
The hardest chapter in Michelle’s life was the passing of her husband.
She now collaborates with community outreach at West Valley.
Michelle has always found purpose in service.
Welcome Michelle!
Trip to El Salvador and the Grande Center 2026
Mike Norcia presented the recent trip to El Salvador and the opportunity to see what kind of impact we make around the world.
They had an opportunity to engage with students in the classroom as well as play soccer with the kids.
They brought three suitcases of books with them.
They have an adult education employment center that is growing.
The group also had an opportunity to travel beyond the center to a National Park and to see other sites.
They brought three suitcases of books with them.
They have an adult education employment center that is growing.
The group also had an opportunity to travel beyond the center to a National Park and to see other sites.
Member Spotlight
Avis La Grone has been a member for 25 years and is a woman who epitomizes service. She is passionate about many causes, including: ELC, International Event, Interact, St. Lukes, Crabfest and her Vietnam Projects.
30 for 30
Fabio Giannetti is donating to ELC because his daughter went this year and it was life-changing for her.
Fabio Giannetti is donating to ELC because his daughter went this year and it was life-changing for her.
ELC Student Team Presentations
Adjournment
Meeting adjourned at 1:30pm.
Meeting adjourned at 1:30pm.