I love October. It’s harvest time which can only mean one thing…. I’m in the kitchen baking and cooking! Bring on the smell of bread in the oven and that special pork and apple dinner that brings rolling eyes in my house. “Here she goes again. We know it’s October based on what Mom is cooking”.
Thank you to all our generous donors from Rotary Clubs and other organizations for helping those in need during the Mosquito fire and its aftermath. Together, we fed evacuees and provided the funds, via the Salvation Army, for gift cards needed to replenish essentials. Shout outs go out to the Rotary Clubs of South Placer, Granite Bay, El Dorado Hills and Folsom for providing lunches, dinners, tents, mattresses and so much more at the evacuation sites.
Mike and I, along with Rotarians, Bob and Chris Deering, Brian Gladden, Ashlie Bryant, Randy Smith, and Tim Hayes kicked off the month in San Diego at the Rotary Zone 26/27 Summit Against Human Trafficking put on by The Rotary Action Group Against Slavery. We had a full day of education and useful information on ways we can work to end human trafficking. Trafficking awareness, things to look for, was a key take away. I was very impressed with G6, the owner, operator, and franchisor for the Motel 6 chain. The hotel group takes a proactive, zero-tolerance stance on human trafficking. Our District was also showcased for our work to end human trafficking that is now being emulated throughout the world.
World Polio Day, October 24, is a day to highlight our efforts for a polio free world while honoring the tireless contributions that Rotary and our partners do on the frontlines and at home to eradicate polio from all corners of the world. Multiple Rotary Districts are gathering on Saturday, October 22 for a walk/run/ride across the Golden Gate Bridge to bring awareness to our mission to eradicate polio. On Sunday, October 23, District 5150 is offering a Polio and Abilities Awareness Expo at Touro University in Vallejo. The day will focus on Post-Polio Syndrome education, create awareness of accessibility challenges firsthand, and explore helpful resources. More information on participation may be found at Rotary5150.org.
Mike and I look forward to spending time with each of you as we continue our tour of District 5180 clubs throughout the month of October.
Yours In Rotary,
Karen Cendro
District Governor, 2022-2023
District 5180