President Paul opened the meeting with a celebratory tone, as images from our highly successful Sac Century event October 3 scrolled on the screens.
Given today’s speaker from the banking industry, Chris Ann Bachtel’s Thought of the Day was a timely focus on the contributing role of banks to society. She noted their worth goes well beyond providing a checking account. They are vital to communities, and banking stability equates to community stability.
President Paul gave thanks to all the volunteers who made this year’s Sac Century a tremendous success, with over 1,000 riders and 100+ volunteers. He pointed out flyers on the tables for a post-event member survey.
Ending Polio
President Paul Keefer presented District Polio Plus chair Joe Scheimer with a $9,393.30 check from Sacramento Rotary member Jeff Setzer, who couldn’t attend the meeting. Joe outlined Rotary’s global leadership in fighting polio with our ultimate goal of eradicating it worldwide.
Know Your Rotary Network - What's Behind the Badge?
In a Know Your Rotary Network segment, Elfrena Foord highlighted PP Bob Miller’s accomplishments. Bob brings 14 years of experience to First US Community Credit Union, uncovering clients options through thought-provoking conversations early on. He believes this approach avoids larger concerns in the long run.
Sharing and Giving
Eight members made contributions to Polio Plus, and several recognized the Sac Century success, during our Levels of Giving. Megan Wygant gave in honor of her 10th wedding anniversary. Virginia Wade recognized Dan Fenocchio for his contributions to the ride, and Rick Osen recognized Sarah Hodge for her impeccable event leadership. Steve Huffman celebrated the Dodgers’ playoff demise and PP Bob Miller’s associated disappointment.
Announcements
President Paul announced that next week’s meeting will be a service day at Sacramento Splash. Virginia Wade announced that four more volunteers are needed for the October 29 Loaves and Fishes volunteer service. Kathy Herrfeldt announced the club will hold a blood drive on January 26. Michele See announced a forthcoming Veterans Day celebration at our club’s November 3 meeting, and she encouraged members to invite veterans.
Featured Speaker
Chair of the Day PP Bob Miller introduced meeting speaker James Beckwith, President and CEO of Five Star Bancorp. James gave a history of the bank since its founding in 1999 and its focus on the local community. In keeping with Rotary’s service focus, James outlined the bank’s strong community engagement and volunteerism with 400 events in 2026 and 2,200 volunteer hours logged in 2025. Today, the bank has $5 billion in assets and has opened a ninth branch. Located in Orange County, this expansion furthers their goal of a statewide presence. James envisions statewide growth not through acquisitions but by acquiring talented people who fit the Five Star culture.
President Paul thanked the coterie of meeting volunteers: greeters Craig Taylor, Hillary Schmeel, and Harold Phillips; photographer Virgina Wade; wine reception sponsor Danielle McGarrity; and Pulse reporter Rhonda Poppen.
In closing, Sergeant-at-Arms Maggie Hopkins reminded all that we will not meet for our regular club luncheon next week, instead doing service work at Sacramento Splash.
