Lynn Rotary extends a sincere thank you to our fellow Rotarian and Massachusetts State Representative Sean Reid for joining us and sharing important updates on legislative initiatives affecting our community. From data privacy protections to transportation and infrastructure improvements in Lynn, Sean offered valuable insight into the issues shaping our city's future. We are grateful for his continued public service, his commitment to listening to his constituents, and his thoughtful advocacy for Lynn. Sean represents our community with intelligence, humility, and a genuine dedication to making a difference. Thank you, Sean, for your leadership, friendship, and commitment to the people of Lynn!

Lynn Rotary Welcomes Nate Berkowitz of ROOT

Lynn Rotary was pleased to welcome Nate Berkowitz of ROOT, a North Shore nonprofit dedicated to helping young adults build pathways to independence through culinary training, employment opportunities, and essential life skills. ROOT's innovative programs not only prepare young people for successful careers but also address food insecurity by preparing more than 700 meals each week for seniors, families, and children in need. Through partnerships with local organizations, ROOT demonstrates how workforce development and community service can create lasting impact. Thank you, Nate, for sharing ROOT's inspiring mission with our Rotarians and reminding us how investing in young people strengthens our entire community.

Lynn Rotary Goes Behind the Brew at Bent Water

Twenty-two Rotarians and friends came together for a fun and successful evening at Bent Water Brewing Company, raising funds to support Lynn Rotary’s college scholarship program. A special thank you goes to Scott McDonald and the entire Bent Water team for their generosity, hospitality, and extra efforts to make our event such a success.

One of the highlights of the evening was the opportunity to go behind the scenes and learn how Bent Water operates and how its beers are made. Our thanks to Brewmaster Patrick for walking us through the brewing process, sharing the history and growth of the company, and explaining the goals that continue to shape its future. Members especially enjoyed learning what inspires different flavors and branding designs, as well as hearing about Bent Water’s environmentally conscious practices and its thoughtful approach to the brewery’s impact on Lynn’s infrastructure and community resources.

Of course, a Rotary evening would not be complete without fellowship and a little friendly competition! After catching up with Rotary friends at our meet-and-greet, the night concluded with our “Sink It” Cornhole Challenge. Following three spirited heats, Ava Perry and Sean McCarthy went head-to-head for the final round and Rotary bragging rights. A special thank you to Mackie Bastarache, whose cowbell kept the competitors—and spectators—energized throughout the games!

Thank you to everyone who participated, supported the fundraiser, and helped make the evening such an enjoyable success. Good friends, a local business supporting its community, a little friendly competition, and funds raised to help Lynn students pursue their college dreams made this a wonderful example of Rotary fellowship and Service Above Self.

A great turnout at Camp Rotary in Boxford this week as 20 Lynn Rotary members attended a luncheon there to spend time with campers and see them in action during various camp activities. The members enjoyed several hours seeing the grounds, talking with staff and camp counselors, and hanging out with campers in their beautiful element. 

Lynn Rotary sponsored 50 campers this summer but the camp services well over 1000 campers that come from all over the North Shore, Metro Boston area and even visitors from outside the country.  See some pictures from the day:

For the past 10 years, the North Shore Juneteenth Association has brought our community together to celebrate liberation, faith, culture and community, and the Rotary Club of Lynn is proud to recognize our own Rotarian Nicole McClain for her extraordinary leadership as founder of the organization. What began with a commitment to educate and unite has grown into an annual Lynn tradition filled with music, dance, spoken word, local vendors, food and fellowship; all offered freely to the community. This year's celebration at Lynn Common once again demonstrated the power of bringing people together.

Behind a decade of successful celebrations is a dedicated team of volunteers and supporters. We also pause to remember Nicole's mother, Larnell Lane, one of the Association's steadfast supporters who generously gave her time, encouragement and helping hands throughout the years. Her quiet service helped strengthen the organization, and her legacy of resilience, generosity and love continues through the work she helped make possible.

Congratulations to Nicole, the North Shore Juneteenth Association team, and the many performers, volunteers, vendors, faith leaders and community partners who have contributed to 10 remarkable years. Nicole's leadership and commitment to service embody the Rotary spirit, and we are proud to have her as a member of the Rotary Club of Lynn. Here's to continuing the work of educating, celebrating and uniting our Lynn community for many years to come.

"Thank you, Allie," for sharing the inspiring work of The Salem Pantry and its innovative approach to addressing food insecurity in our communities. We appreciate your dedication to ensuring that fresh, healthy food is accessible to all, regardless of income or circumstance. The Lynn Rotary Club encourages our members to learn more about The Salem Pantry's mission and consider volunteering, donating, or partnering with this remarkable organization as we continue our shared commitment to service and helping our neighbors in need.