Ojai Rotary Club Meeting Notes
July 18, 2025
In the beginning
On a lovely summer day, new President Sue called Rotarians to gather for service and fellowship. Rod Owen led us in the Pledge and Bill Prather reminded us of all that we have to be grateful for, in Bill’s case, he is free from his orthopedic boot! He encouraged us to let go of the fear and anger that characterizes so much of our public life.
Sue thanked all those who made the meeting possible and welcomed visiting Rotarians Jack MacClenahan and today’s speaker Wade Nomura.
Happy Birthday Betsy!
President Sue led us in singing Happy Birthday to Betsy Watson. Fern presided over the coronation with much pomp and circumstance. A special birthday dessert was served.
Announcements
- Sue thanked the Directors of Service for their efforts during the Club Assembly
- Dave Watson encouraged members to volunteer for club service; he particularly encouraged new members to serve as greeters as a way to get to know the rest of the club.
- Chris Williams asked for pictures
- Leah Heckler asked for fun pictures
- Next week’s speaker will be Mark Lewis, local historian
Fining with Ren Adams
Ren did his usual splendid job of entertaining us while extracting cash.
Program: Wade Nomura
Bill Warlick introduced today’s speaker, Wade Nomura. Wade is a remarkable Rotarian who has worked on over two hundred international service projects. He is the former 2-time mayor of Carpinteria, and the former president of the Carpinteria Rotary Club. Wade gave a moving presentation on “Peace through Service”. Here are the points I found most important:
- Wade’s parents and grandparents were interned during WWII and lost all of their possessions. Many young men joined 442 Battalion while their families were interned; 442 Battalion was the most decorated in the war.
- Wade’s most memorable service project was the NID in India in 2010 when over 916,000 children were vaccinated against polio
- When he was elected Mayor of Carpinteria, he strove to be “the voice of reason”.
- Wade stressed that Rotary is the only organization with enough resources and world-wide presence to tackle some of the toughest challenges.
- During the Q and A, Bill Prather asked Wade if he would be willing to serve at International President. Wade didn’t refuse!
Conclusion
President Sue encouraged us to think of the 4-way test as a way to bring peace to the world.
