Our 1.4 million-member organization started with the vision of one man—Paul P. Harris. The Chicago attorney formed one of the world’s first service organizations, the Rotary Club of Chicago, on 23 February 1905 as a place where professionals with diverse backgrounds could exchange ideas and form meaningful, lifelong friendships. Rotary’s name came from the group’s early practice of rotating meetings among the offices of each member.
Rotary Meeting Notes
3/15/2024
In the beginning…
On a splendid early spring day, Ojai Rotarians gathered for service and friendship. CoPresident Bill Prather led the flag salute and Bret Bradigan read several Kahlil Gibran quotes, such as:
- “I have learned silence from the talkative, toleration from the intolerant, and kindness from the unkind; yet, strange, I am ungrateful to those teachers” and
- “If the other person injures you, you may forget the injury; but if you injure him you will always remember”
Incoming President Wendy Barker thanked all those whose efforts made the meeting possible.
Guests
We were honored to have several guests: Lea Hecker, Mike and Lisa Malone, and Taundra’s daughter Caitlin.
Rotarian of the Month
Bill Hatch was honored as Rotarian of the Month for his quiet and persistent dedication to many Rotary causes.
5th Friday
Jerry Maryniuk invited us to what sounds like a fun 5th Friday activity: a boat ride around Lake Casitas. Bring a sweater as it is likely to be cold.
Living Treasuers
Dr. Fred Fauvre provided us with a quick history of the Living Treasures Program. Founded in 1994 by Sanford Drucker, the program honors those who make Ojai a better place to live. Fred asked that nominations be submitted by 3/29.
Arbor Day
Al West reminded us that Arbor Day will be April 26 and will be held at Mesa Farms.
Upcoming Programs
Jack Jacobs gave us a preview of upcoming programs:
- Marilyn Mosele, a local educator, will talk about educating girls in Afghanistan
- Arbor Day at Mesa Farms
- Stuart Crowner will talk about Hollywood stars
Announcements
- Kay Bliss announced the good news that Cheree is doing better than expected and will require only 2 weeks of radiation.
- Kay also praised the Nordhoff production of Les Miserables , which was the first program supported by a grant from the Marty Babayco fund.
- Jerry Maryniuk is looking for an organization capable of hosting the AED program.
Fining by Taundra Roddick
New Rotarian Tundra did a commendable job of extracting money from Rotarians by asking questions related to Women’s History Month, such as:
- Who was the first woman to win the Nobel Prize, and for what accomplishment?
- What woman was the first to serve on the Supreme Court?
- Who was the first black woman to serve as Secretary of State?
Good Work Taundra!
New Member #1: Chris Williams
Chris gave a lively talk introducing himself as a new member. Here are some of the more memorable points he covered:
- Chris is a 5th generation Ojai resident!
- Chris was delivered by Bob Skankey, as was his father and grandfather!
- Chris has had a variety of jobs, the best sounding was a trashman on Catalina.
- Chris’s plan to become a police officer was derailed by a serious auto accident.
- Chris is now a happy and successful Real Estate agent
New Member#2: Taundra Roddick
Taundra gave a moving talk about her life, her appreciation for her remarkable family, and her faith. Here are the high points:
- Her mom and her grandparents grounded her in faith and a belief in education
- Her grandmother acquired a PhD in Religious Studies
- Her story of her mom and dad’s courtship brought smiles to many
- Her story of Carl’s adoption of her and her brother Rico brought tears to many
- She calls herself a “Child of God”.
Welcome to Rotary, Chris and Taundra!
Bill Prather ended the meeting by praising Wendy Barker for a smooth maiden voyage!
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