Thanks to his week's correspondent:
SHANNON LABARE
Shannon LaBare is the founder and creative force behind Purveyor Branding Co., a strategic agency specializing in transforming businesses into captivating, results-driven brands. With expertise in brand strategy, storytelling, design, and marketing, Shannon and her growing team partner with clients to build brands that inspire connection and drive impact.
Outside the office, Shannon treasures time with her family. Her husband, Scott, is a PGA professional at El Caballero Country Club in Los Angeles, and their nearly 10-year-old son, Ira, shares his love for soccer and golf. This year, Shannon is adding a new skill to her repertoire—learning to become a pool billiards shark—all while making fun memories with her boys.
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Invocation: Win Eaton
Flag Salute: Jorge Barrientos
Song: John Calanchini
Greeter: Dave Wheldon
Roving Mics: Jerene Battisti
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GUESTS:
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Kevin McGowan: Coordinator of Programs at Kern Public Schools. Guest of Doc Erwin.
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Janelle Rangel: Oxchi Skin Co., Guest of Juan Bustamonte.
VISITING ROTARIANS:
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Kay Pitts: Chief Operating Officer of Rotary District 5240, representing Breakfast Rotary.
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Bob and Karen Lightfoot: Retired professor and former director of nursing at Chico State University, now in the travel industry. Guests of Mike McCoy
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Quon Louey: Executive Assistant District Governor Rotary District 5240
GOOD NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS:
SAVE THE DATE
March 13 - All District Meeting at CTEC (Career & Technical Education Center)
PROGRAM
Sherry Sim, our esteemed District Governor, delivered a powerful and personal address centered around her theme "Rotary is Love." Drawing from her own experiences growing up in Singapore, Sherry shared how being born a girl led to early rejection from her family - an experience that shaped her deep understanding of acceptance within Rotary, where members are valued regardless of gender, accent, or background.
Throughout her presentation, Sherry highlighted significant Rotary initiatives, with particular emphasis on the ongoing fight against polio. She noted the continued efforts in Afghanistan and Pakistan, sharing updates on recent case numbers and the targeted eradication goals for 2027 and 2029. The district's achievements were also celebrated, with Sherry announcing their impressive standing as number two in annual fundgiving in Arizona and number 18 worldwide among 530 districts.
One of the most moving moments came when Sherry recounted her experience distributing sweaters to students at a rural Indian school. She described a humble structure without walls or ceilings, where students would kneel in respect before receiving their sweaters. This emotional story exemplified the direct impact Rotary has on communities worldwide and the profound gratitude of those they serve.
The presentation concluded with Sherry's heartfelt reminder that her payment comes in the form of "goosebumps" - the emotional reward of seeing Rotary's impact on communities worldwide. She encouraged all members to spread the love of Rotary, emphasizing that they are the magicians who can create magic in this special year.