Club Information
Rotary Club of La Conner

Service Above Self

We meet In Person
Mondays at 5:30 p.m.
Shawn O'Donnell's Farmhouse Restaurant
11376 LaConner-Whitney Rd
Mount Vernon, WA 98273
United States of America
Everyone is Welcome
5:30 - Set-Up, Social, Meal
6:00 - Formal Meeting
Note: 3rd Monday of the month is devoted to club business (Committee Reports & Boards), and maybe via Zoom. All members are invited to attend.
The Latest News from the "Make it Happen" Club
At our June 9, 2025, Rotary Meeting,  the inspiration was provided by Christi:

June is Rotary Fellowship Month â€“ Rotary Fellowships are international groups that share a common passion. Being part of a fellowship is a fun way to make friends around the world, explore a hobby or profession, and enhance your Rotary experience.  There are more than 90 fellowship groups established for Rotarians around the world to share in their common passions, experience exciting experiences, and engage in life changing opportunities.  Link - Rotary Fellowships | Rotary International
June is also National PRIDE Month â€“ Rotary D5050 is in the process of combining Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee and the Membership Committee.  DEI is a natural part of attracting and retaining members and emphasizes that everyone is welcome in Rotary  Weunderstand that by cultivating a diverse, equitable and inclusive culture, we realize our vision of a world where people unite, take action to creating lasting change, and celebrate the contributions from people of all backgrounds. People hold visible and invisible qualities that inherently make them unique, and as an organization we strive to ensure each person knows they are valued and belong.
La Conner Rotary partners with La Conner Thrives and June PRIDE events â€“ Please come and enjoy the community partnership and event – or volunteer to help with the events â€“ Link- La Conner Pride
Rainbows - A rainbow is more than just a pretty sight — it’s a symbolically rich natural phenomenon in nature that often signifies hope, beauty, potential, and good fortune. The rainbow’s array of colors also exemplifies unity in diversity, and it’s been a powerful symbol of pride for the LGBTQ+ community since the 1970s. Scientifically, each of the colors of the rainbow represents a different wavelength of light, with violet having the shortest wavelength and red the longest. They also carry emotional and emblematic power: Certain hues have differing psychological effects (e.g., blue is associated with serenity), while others hold unique historical and cultural meanings.
Artists, writers, and designers often rely on colors as tools to shape the tone and narrative of their work. Vincent Van Gogh, for instance, studied color theory, successfully harnessing the power of contrast in his famous paintings.

”There is a sun, a light, that for want of a better word I can only call yellow, pale sulphur yellow, pale golden citron.  How lovely yellow is!”          Vincent Van Gogh

Susan Guterbock, our area H assistant district governor, spoke:
I’m here tonight to say a few words about Audrey.  First, happy belated birthday!
Years ago, I saw a great play in London called Everybody’s Talking About Jane, and tonight, it feels like everybody’s talking about Audrey.  I have two things for her.
First, a thank-you for her outstanding year as president of your wonderful club. She’s been enthusiastic, organized—everything a great president should be.
Second, as she transitions from club president to Area H representative, I wanted to help her remember the clubs in her area: Anacortes, La Conner, and San Juan.
As for me, this marks the end of my three-year term. I hope to visit again, but I’ll be unofficial—no badge anymore. I’ll pass this one on to Audrey, with appreciation.
Audrey introduced our guest speakers for the evening.
  • Tom Bengal lives in Anacortes with his wife and young son. He works as a project manager for HF Sinclair after retiring from 25 years in the U.S. Navy.
  • Luke Currier, also from Anacortes, is the CEO of Land Title and Escrow and is currently running for city council.
  • Greg Sherman lives in Mount Vernon with his wife and two children. He’s an educator at the Northwest Career and Technical Academy at Skagit Valley College and plays the stand-up bass.
  • Christina Adams is a Swinomish tribal member, lives with her husband, and is the mother of five. She works as a program development coordinator for the tribe and is known for her beautiful singing voice.
  • Patsy lives on Guemes Island and spends summers in La Conner. She has worked for Skagit Valley Hospital for 34 years as a registered nurse overseeing the dialysis program. A long-time community leader, she began her Rotary involvement as a Sea Scouts leader and later joined the club.
Here’s a summary of the Leadership Skagit “Bridge Builders” presentation.
🔹 Introductions
The Leadership Skagit team, Bridge Builders, introduced themselves and their backgrounds:
  • Tom Bengal: Navy veteran and project manager at HF Sinclair.
  • Luke Currier: CEO of Land Title and Escrow, running for city council.
  • Greg Sherman: Educator at Northwest Career and Technical Academy.
  • Christina Adams: Swinomish tribal member and workforce development manager.
  • Patsy: Longtime community leader and nurse, representing La Conner Rotary.
Each shared their personal connection to water and their Clifton Strengths (e.g., Influencer, Strategic, Arranger), which helped shape their teamwork and project roles.
🔹 Project Overview
The team’s project is a Family Fun Day at Seafarers’ Memorial Park in Anacortes on June 21. The event aims to:
  • Connect under-served families—especially those from inland Skagit County—with the coast.
  • Offer hands-on water activities like sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
  • Introduce youth to STEM learning and maritime career paths.
  • Build a sustainable, annual event in partnership with the Anacortes Waterfront Alliance.
They’ve partnered with organizations like Team Triumph, the Swinomish and Samish tribes, Skagit Valley College, and local Rotary clubs. The event is free, with food sponsored by Anacortes Rotary and prepared by volunteers.
 
Impact:
  • $5,500 raised in donations.
  • Youth employment opportunities created.
  • Increased access to water-based experiences and STEM exposure.
  • Cross-sector collaboration among nonprofits, schools, and civic groups.
Challenges:
  • Scheduling conflicts with Berry Dairy Days and Pride events.
  • Language barriers with safety waivers for non-English-speaking families.
  • Transportation access, addressed through a partnership with Skagit Transit and a special workshop at Skagit Station.
  • Immigration-related fears among migrant families, addressed through trusted community partners.
🔹 Q&A Highlights
A question was asked about specific STEM activities. The team shared:
  • “Between Two Worlds” Curriculum: An Indigenous-infused science program at La Conner High School, featuring hands-on water quality testing and cultural storytelling.
  • Student Involvement: High schoolers from Northwest Career and Technical Academy may lead marine science and fire safety demos.
  • Fire Boat Demonstrations: Highlighting careers in emergency services.
The curriculum is open to all students, tribal and non-tribal, and counts toward science credit.
Very enlightening and educational program!  Everyone was very engaged and had some great questions.
 
Announcements: 
A thank-you letter is circulating for the club’s contribution to Miss Vicky Challenge for ending Polio.  Total funds raised have exceeded $101,000—amazing!
Connie presented scholarship awards at La Conner High School on June 10.
 
 
·  Fireside Meeting - July 27  At the home of Lyanne Browning (Sunday).  Casual gathering to share ideas in her lovely backyard.
·  Summer Picnic - August 4.  Hosted at the Vanders’ home: 81886 Sulphur Springs Road, Big Lake.
·  Annual Auction – August 22–23
 
Audrey’s closing remarks :
I was thinking about leadership and service and the whole genre around servant leaders.
This is a quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson:
“It is one of the most beautiful compensations of life that no man can sincerely try to help another without helping himself.   Serve, and thou shall be served.”
 
The inspiration was provided by Doug:
"Wherever you go, no matter what the weather, always bring your own sunshine." â€” Anthony J. D'Angelo
How does sunshine relate to Rotary?
Summer is here, bringing longer days and opportunities to unwind - barbecues, reading lists, home projects, and whatever defines relaxation for you. But while commitments to communities tend to decline this season, Rotarians remain steadfast in their service.
While others focus solely on summer fun, Rotarians continue their projects, fundraisers, and outreach efforts. And the beauty of Rotary in the summer is that it serves as a visible reminder: service is not seasonal. Under the sun, among the community, Rotarians embody the idea that kindness and impact should never take a vacation.
As we embrace the warmth of summer, let sunshine serve as a reminder that every Rotary act of service has the power to brighten someone's day.
 
Before presenting her our symbolic big check of $1,500, Althea spoke.
My name is Althea Leader, and I'm the Grant Manager for North Cascades Institute, an environmental education nonprofit. One of our most popular programs is Mountain School, which gives 5th graders the opportunity to spend three days and two nights immersed in outdoor education in the North Cascades.
The program focuses on connection—between students, nature, and the broader ecosystem. Our curriculum is aligned with Washington State learning standards, ensuring it complements classroom learning. Thanks to your generous support, La Conner Elementary students were able to participate in Mountain School just last week, and I'd love to share some of their reflections.
At the end of their stay, students write postcards to themselves. Here are a few memorable excerpts:
"The creeks are beautiful and emotional. I have all my friends beside me. We talked every night about life. We saw mushrooms and mossy trees. I wish I could sit by the waterfalls and creeks to think. But there's more to life that I have not yet covered."
"I am proud of myself for bravery and amazingness. I am thankful for the beautiful nature that is around me—the water, the mountains, the snow, the trees—and for friends, family, and all that is around me."
To close, I want to share a reflection from a teacher, which speaks to the true impact of Mountain School:
"I have a student who never saw herself as a learner. On the first day, she called herself stupid. But by the end of the second day, she was leading the group in inquiry and enthusiasm. It was the most alive I have ever seen her. Mountain School allowed her to see her strength and discover the joy of learning."
Thank you for supporting this experience—your generosity makes a profound difference in students' lives.
Marty introduced our guest speaker for the evening:
Paul grew up in Thousand Oaks, California, where he was an active member of his school's Interact Club. His parents’ stories of their flight from Ukraine during World War II profoundly shaped his path, inspiring him to study international relations at Georgetown University with a focus on Soviet history and U.S. Cold War policies.
During his senior year at Georgetown, he learned about Rotary scholarships and applied through the Rotary Club of Westlake Village, California. He chose to study at the Institute of International Studies at the University of Chile in Santiago, where he could leverage his fluency in Spanish and continue exploring Latin American international relations.
As a Rotary Scholar, he joined four other scholars hosted by the Rotary Club of Santiago, traveling frequently and engaging in deep discussions. Reflecting on his experience, Paul shared, "I listened to views that opened my mind and learned to see perspectives beyond the U.S."
Following his year in Chile, Paul joined his father and brother in exploring business opportunities in newly independent Ukraine, where he helped introduce paid satellite television to former Soviet bloc countries. Later, he expanded his work into Central America, deploying wireless cable technology.
His approach to international business was rooted in cultural respect. As Paul put it, "I learned quickly that you have to respect the culture to succeed; otherwise, they will block you. My predecessors came in with arrogance, but I came in with humility—something I learned as a Rotary Scholar."
His career continued with Alpha Technologies, where he sold power systems to broadband and telecommunications companies. Eventually, Alpha Technologies was acquired by Outback Power, which focused on off-grid solar solutions.
In 2019, Paul launched New Use Energy, supplying portable solar and battery generators designed for remote locations. His clients range from telecommunications companies to emergency management teams and the film industry.
Paul reconnected with Rotary through his travels, and his work gained prominence when Heidi Rickles—collaborating with Rotary Clubs in Ukraine and Colorado—sought portable power solutions for Ukrainian hospitals. She found Paul and his organization, forging a meaningful partnership.
Today, Paul remains committed to expanding his connections within Rotary, continuing to draw inspiration from the organization's enduring mission.
 
Paul Shmotolokha, Chief Executive of New Use Energy, spoke.  In summary:
Paul’s speech highlighted his journey from Rotary Scholar to entrepreneur, humanitarian, and leader in renewable energy. His story begins with Rotary shaping his worldview; through his Ambassadorial Scholarship in Chile, he learned diplomacy, cultural understanding, and global service. These lessons carried into his career, where he applied them across 100+ countries in satellite technology, broadband, and international business. 
In 2019, Paul founded New Use Energy, specializing in industrial-grade lithium battery generators and solar technology. His company focuses on replacing gas-powered generators with clean, silent alternatives in telecommunications, emergency response, and film production. 
 
Rotary's influence came full circle with Power Up Ukraine, a campaign providing battery generators to Ukrainian hospitals and ambulances in response to Russia’s attacks on infrastructure. These generators have ensured uninterrupted medical care, protected ambulances targeted by drones, and sustained vital operations as Ukraine lost 60% of its power grid. 
 
Beyond Ukraine, Paul’s team has deployed medical power solutions in Malawi, providing reliable energy for clinics. His vision extends from emergency relief to resilient energy independence, empowering communities to thrive despite conflict or disaster. 
 
Now, he’s calling on Rotary District 5050 to partner in Power Up Ukraine, emphasizing its lasting impact beyond the immediate crisis. His message is clear: Rotary’s commitment to service can drive real change—by powering hospitals, saving lives, and creating long-term stability for communities in need.
 
Q&A covered several topics.
 
Powering Ambulances â€“ The generators used in ambulances can be recharged at base stations, where intermittent grid power is available. If grid power is absent, they rely on solar or secondary generators. These units charge quickly—about 45 minutes when partially depleted or up to 1.5 hours when fully drained. However, solar charging varies based on location, season, and access to military-approved zones.
 
Experience in China â€“ Paul lived in Beijing from 2002-2003, working for a major U.S. media company in a joint venture with Central Chinese Television. He was responsible for bringing U.S., Latin American, and Korean programming to Chinese audiences. During his time there, he witnessed the first SARS epidemic, and later contributed supplies to hospitals using his expertise in supply chain management.
 
Language Proficiency â€“ Paul speaks four languages fluently: Spanish, Ukrainian, Russian, and English. He has working proficiency in Portuguese and multiple Slavic languages, making it easy for him to adapt across international settings. However, he struggled with Hungarian, which he describes as "a language from another planet."
 
Crowdfunding & Support for Ukraine â€“ A question was raised about the cost of donating to Power Up Ukraine. While battery units typically cost $1,500 and could power a doctor's equipment for seven hours, newer models are available for as little as $750. Paul emphasized that crowdfunding has played a massive role in supporting Ukraine, calling it the most crowdfunded war in history.
 
Ukraine's Military & Civilian Support â€“ Ukraine was under-equipped in 2022, even after improvements from the initial 2014 Russian invasion. Crowdfunding has provided critical supplies for both civilians and the military, including drones—with Ukraine now producing two million drones per year, a large portion funded directly by private donations.
 
Drone Production & Impact â€“ Entire drone production operations are crowdfunded, with small manufacturers building thousands per month. These drones play an essential role in Ukraine’s defense and tactical operations, showing the scale of grassroots efforts in modern warfare.

Off-Grid Power Support â€“ A participant shared their experience of working with Paul to power their off-grid shack, highlighting how he treated them with the same dedication as a large-budget military client. They appreciated the personalized support and a visit to his Anacortes facility, which helped them fully transition to off-grid energy solutions.
 
Customer Approach â€“ Paul emphasized that treating every customer like royalty is key to success in business. He also thanked the participant for providing photos of their installation, which his company used on its newly launched website.
 
Residential Emergency Power â€“ A question was raised about using smaller battery units for home emergencies. Paul explained that his battery generators are reasonably priced and highly effective for power outages. He personally relies on them, especially during 12-hour blackouts, to protect refrigerated food—noting that a single use could offset the cost of the unit.
 
Ukraine’s Long-Term Survival & War with Russia â€“ When asked about the endgame for Ukraine, Paul noted that every military conflict reaches exhaustion over time, citing Vietnam, Korea, and the Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan. However, Russia’s desire for regional domination will persist beyond Ukraine, extending to Belarus and the Baltic states. He described Russia as an economic “gas station” reliant on Ukraine’s agricultural resources, and predicted a prolonged conflict, potentially resembling the Korean War—a frozen, unresolved situation.
 
The Future of Russia â€“ Paul suggested that Russia must undergo decolonization, like other former empires. He stressed that imperialism drives Russia’s aggression, making territorial expansion a core goal. While a ceasefire may eventually occur, the geopolitical instability will remain until Russia undergoes structural change.
 
Business Location â€“ A participant asked for directions to Paul’s facility. He shared that his office is located near the first light over the bridge, close to Marsh Point Road and Route 20, next to a flooring connection business.
Very enlightening and educational program!  Everyone was very engaged and had some great questions.
 
On June 10, some Rotary volunteers helped pack food bags at Helping Hands food bank in Sedro-Woolley.
 
We are a hands-on service club dedicated to improving lives locally and around the world. We do this by promoting and investing in literacy, public health and community service.  We are the club people want to join, because we have fun while making a difference.  Our La Conner Rotary Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization.  Our tax ID# is 26-2730981.  Learn More About Our Club
 
Please note that we meet most Mondays at The Farmhouse starting at 5:45pm.  Please check the speaker list and/or event schedule for changes to the venue for the Monday meeting.
 

Contact Us!
Mailing Address
PO Box 2111
La Conner, WA 98257
 
Email Address
click on the link to send us an email
Speakers
Dr. R. Lee Harman
Jul 14, 2025 5:30 PM
Miss Vicky Polio Challenge - All member hybrid
Dean Rohrs
Jul 21, 2025 5:30 PM
Her Rotary story
Club business/board meeting
Jul 28, 2025 5:30 PM
All members hybrid
Summer picnic
Aug 04, 2025 5:30 PM
All members and guests
Randy Myers and Tara Pasternak
Aug 11, 2025 5:30 PM
Days for Girls in Honduras
Club business/ board meeting
Aug 18, 2025
All members hybrid
Hadden Zimmerman and Nelly Corona
Aug 25, 2025
YES student presentation
Labor Day
Sep 01, 2025
No meeting
North Cascades Institute Althea Leader
Sep 08, 2025
All members hybrid
Mayor Marna Hanneman
Sep 15, 2025
State of La Conner address
Club business/board meeting
Sep 22, 2025
All members hybrid
Fifth Monday fun: tour New Use Energy Solutions
Sep 29, 2025
All members and guests
Adam McGarity Skagit Farm and Forest School
Oct 06, 2025
All members hybrid
TBD
Oct 13, 2025
All member hybrid
Club business/board meeting
Oct 20, 2025
All members hybrid
TBD
Oct 27, 2025
All member hybrid
TBD
Nov 03, 2025
All member hybrid
TBD
Nov 10, 2025
All member hybrid
Club business/board meeting
Nov 17, 2025
All members hybrid
TBD
Nov 24, 2025
All members hybrid
TBD
Dec 01, 2025
All member hybrid
TBD
Dec 08, 2025
All member hybrid
Club business/board meeting
Dec 15, 2025
All members hybrid
Christmas break
Dec 22, 2025
No meeting
New Year break
Dec 29, 2025
No meeting
TBD
Jan 05, 2026
All member hybrid
Upcoming Events
Club Executives & Directors
President
President Elect
Membership
Vice President
Past President
Secretary
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Community Services
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Vocational Services
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