August Happenings

This has been a busy month already.  The District Governor was here for a visit on August 3, the Back-to-School Giveaway took place Saturday, and the whole month is Membership Month in Rotary.

Let's start with District Governor (DG).  Bill Jenkin and his wife Lisa, from Prosser, were in our area Thursday.  Bill gave the address at the Wenatchee Club's meeting at noon, and all area clubs were invited.  Bill talked about his goals for the distinct, which is Challenge, Commitment, and Change. He encouraged each club to make at least one change this year to improve the club, or engage members.  Each club this year gets to select a "Change Maker" who will be recognized at the district conference in Prosser in May.  Bill also talked about the history and contributions of our area clubs, and some of the district and RI leadership that has come from our area clubs.  Bill ended his talk with a promotional video of the May 17-19 District Conference in Prosser.  Sunrise had 10 members in attendance.  Thanks to Kathleen, Pete, Rene, Laura, Jim & Carol, Jerry, Patty, Robin, and David for showing up to represent our club and support our DG.

That evening, the area clubs hosted a social in honor of DG Bill and Lisa.  Over 100 people, representing all 6 area clubs, showed up at Sunrise Circle for fun, food, and fellowship. Despite the heat and smoke, it was a good time, and several family members enjoyed the pool while the adults visited.  Many thanks to John and Betsy McDarment for organizing the party, shopping for the food, setting up, etc. Thanks also to PJ, Jim & Carol, Mansour, and Chris for helping with set up/clean up.  We had a great show of support from Sunrise.  John & Betsy, Chris & Holly (and son Brian), Jim & Carol, Robin & Richard, Mansour & Linda, Kathleen, Jane & Jayna (and friend), Annie & Jim, Erin, Jerry & Kathy, and PJ & Cookie.

 Area presidents presenting DG Bill and Lisa with gifts from our area.  And Bill presenting the presidents with a bottle wine from his winery.

Saturday morning, Jim & Carol and Tana helped at the Back to School Giveaway.  It is estimated that around 5-600 kids received back packs, supplies, and information.  The event was sponsored by Columbia Valley Community Health.