February 2024

Guest Speaker - Marie Blankley

Marie Blankley is the dedicated Mayor of Gilroy, California, committed to fostering community growth and prosperity. With a background in public service and a passion for enhancing the quality of life for residents, Mayor Blankley works tirelessly to address local issues and promote sustainable development initiatives. Her leadership is characterized by inclusivity, transparency, and a steadfast dedication to the well-being of Gilroy’s diverse population. Through collaborative efforts and innovative solutions, Mayor Blankley continues to make strides in building a vibrant and resilient city for all its inhabitants.

President's Message

As spring approaches in a few weeks, anticipation builds for our upcoming meeting next Tuesday. We're thrilled to have Mayor Marie Blankley join us to address your questions and provide updates on several important projects. Furthermore, following the main session, our newly established committees will convene to delve into our respective goals and initiatives.

Congratulations to fellow Rotarian Julie Whelan for being named the 2024 PATH International Region 11 Volunteer of the Year! Julie's exceptional dedication has made a significant impact, from supporting Horses for Warriors to participating in fundraising, emergency caretaking, special events, and more. Julie, your tireless commitment is truly admirable. We extend our heartfelt congratulations on this well-deserved honor!

Our District International Service Committee has planned a fun Santa Cruz Warriors Night get-together on Saturday March 14th. The event follows the District Leadership Meeting at Cruz Kitchen & Taps from 4-7PM. Would you like to go? If so, check out the link below for details. Limited availability for seating within the Rotary section https://events.humanitix.com/rotarywarriorsnight. If the Rotary section sells out more tickets can be purchased here.

Have you signed up for our annual Rotary District Conference on April 26-28? For more details and registration visit https://events.humanitix.com/2024rotaryconference . We are fortunate to have the event at the beautiful Hayes Mansion only 30 minutes away in south San Jose.

This year's District 5170 conference offers an amazing chance to explore the Family of Rotary, reconnecting with old friends and forging new lifelong connections with fellow Rotary enthusiasts. The two-day event begins with welcoming and networking receptions on Friday evening and will showcase keynote speakers from across the USA and beyond, along with three rounds of breakout sessions covering a variety of topics. Register before March to receive 2 bonus drink tickets and a bonus $50 cashback when you book a hotel night at Hayes Mansion during the conference weekend. Stay tuned for speaker details!

Do you believe in 2nd chances? I certainly do, especially after reading through the latest issue of Rotary Magazine. Highlighted in this month’s edition is a classic car restoration program for at-risk youth sponsored by local Rotarians in Monterey County.

In conclusion let's take a moment to reflect on the incredible impact Rotary continues to make locally and worldwide. From providing books for local children to delivering clean water to communities in need, to eradicating diseases, promoting education, and fostering peace, Rotary's dedication to service above self knows no bounds. Through our collective efforts, we are truly making a difference in the lives of countless individuals and communities around the globe. Let us continue to uphold Rotary's ideals, spreading goodwill and creating positive change wherever we go.

See you at the meeting next Tuesday!

Bryson Smith

Bryson Smith - Gilroy, California, United States | Professional Profile | LinkedIn