Notes from January 29, 2026 by Jake Munholland
President Cara started the meeting by ringing the bell at 12:04. She called on David Hartman to come up for the invocation, which he always does in a very thoughtful manner. Benay and Josh then teamed up to stream “Sweet Caroline” to get everyone ready for opening day at Fenway Park. After singing, we greeted Rotarians and guests with friendly handshakes.
President Cara then recognized the visitors and guests for the day. Kenny McCollum is the GM at Bruckner and is Josh’s boss. Tad Gose was a guest of David Hartman. John Mayfield brought his wife Debbie and our Rotary exchange student Pauli. Thanks for joining us for Rotary!
For the Sunshine report, President Cara acknowledged Andy Kocker, Carla Dowlen, and John Deason who were able to attend the meeting after their recent health issues. Please remember to keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Noros then brought around the brag bucket. Brady bragged on the birth and health of his 2nd granddaughter. Carla bragged to say Thanks to Tommy for picking her up for the meeting. Noel then bragged on the Wichita Theater for their upcoming production of North Texas Rising. Tommy questioned the Citizen of the Year Committee’s selection of Noros Martin. David Adams bragged on the great Texas weather we have had this week. Noros had a brag on Andy Kocher and Monica who were both featured on news broadcasts for different reasons on the same day. It’s always nice to see our fellow Rotarians being acknowledged.
Josh Phillips then came up for a check presentation to the NCO Academy in support of all the help they provide us on our flag days. President Cara reminded everyone about NCO Academy graduation on Tuesday February 10th at 9:00am. She plans to attend and if you would like details, please reach out to her.
President Cara again reminded everyone about her challenge of 100% participation in donating to the Rotary Foundation as a birthday gift to the club. She also reminded everyone about the membership committee social meeting on Thursday, February 19th at 5:30pm at Taco Darlin. Please bring a guest to share the joy of Rotary. Steve announced to everyone that we would be meeting in the Garden Room next week on Thursday, February 5th.
President Cara then called up her friend, Jenny Frederick, a Christian Comedian, who was our speaker for the week. She started off with several clean family friendly jokes with her dark sense of humor. She then took some time to talk about her troubled childhood as a member of a very strict cult, and how it helped shape her. She eventually became a teacher in Henrietta where she tried to be the kind of teacher that she needed when she was growing up. If you are interested in hearing some of her material or booking her for an event, you can visit her website at 23ministry.com. Thanks for sharing your comedy and experiences with us.
After the presentation, President Cara closed the meeting at 12:40 with the Four Way Test and rang the bell.