TODAY
The Honorable Dr. NATHAN GONZALES will share “Redlands in Thanksgivings Past”, a talk that will doubtless surprise, amaze, and entertain you (maybe). Learn all about the many things for which Redlands may be thankful throughout our community’s history.
LAST WEEK
LAUREN MAUCERE, Curriculum & Outreach Supervisor at the California School for the Deaf, Riverside, shared the school’s story and her work. MAUCERE was joined by her colleague who signed her narrative so that hearingenabled Rotarians would be able to participate in the program. According to the school’s website, “Students at California School for the Deaf are engaged in a positive environment where ASL and English are valued, cultures are embraced, learning is relevant, and self-worth is uplifted. In collaboration with families and school communities, Southern California students prepare for college and careers through academic rigor, innovative technology, and extra-curricular opportunities.” The presentation shared the many fascinating opportunities for the school’s students and the positive outcomes it creates for their futures.
NEXT WEEK
It’s Thanksgiving! May you and yours enjoy the holiday and have an opportunity to give thanks. See you in (gasp!) December!
THANKSGIVING HISTORY
Did you know that what became our national Thanksgiving holiday had nothing to do with pilgrims and native peoples celebrating a harvest in the Massachusetts Colony when it began? On October 3, 1863, prompted by a series of editorials written by Sarah Josepha Hale and buoyed by the US victory at Gettysburg, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed that November 26 would be a national Thanksgiving Day, and it has been observed every year on the fourth Thursday of November.
NOVEMBER BIRTHDAYS
Happy birthday to Rotarians BRIAN AHLERS (15), BETTY AUTON-BECK (11), BRANDI COLATO (10), BOB HEINZE (25), JIM NOLIN (2), and STAN WEISSER (1).
ROTARY ETIQUETTE REMINDER
Our speakers come to share their stories and programs with the Club without charge. If you must scoot because of an unforeseen circumstance (the only truly legitimate reason), please share your regrets with the speaker before you leave. There’s little more embarrassing for the Club than when a speaker is introduced and several members stand up and leave without warning.
PRESIDENTS MESSAGE
Dear Rotary Family, as the golden leaves of November paint Redlands in warm hues, our community comes alive with a spirit of reflection and hope. Thanksgiving isn’t just a day of feasting, but a moment to reflect on the abundance of opportunities we have to make a difference. This month, we’re particularly proud and thankful of the ways we continue to serve and uplift our community. Our commitment to supporting local youth programs represents more than just charitable giving, it’s an investment in our community’s future. Through our scholarship initiatives, we are opening doors of opportunity for young minds, helping them pursue their dreams and become the next generation of community leaders and maybe Rotarians.
As we gather with our families this Thanksgiving, I’m reminded of the incredible power of collective action. Each member of our Rotary Club brings unique skills, passion, and dedication to our shared mission. Together, we’re not just giving thanks, we’re creating the very reasons for gratitude in our community. Please reach out to me if you would like to use more of your skills and passion in our committees, we have some things we need help with. Our work continues to prove that when compassionate individuals unite with purpose, extraordinary things do happen. Wishing you a Happy Thanksgiving!
Editor – Nathan D. Gonzales – Edition No.19 – November 21, 2024