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 month is devoted to Committee Reports & Boards. All members are invited. Auction tickets
District Site
Bulletins
Venue Map
Who we are
We are a hands-on service club committed to improving lives locally and globally. We achieve 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.
The Latest News from the "Make it Happen" Club
Club status May 2026

May 18 Club Meeting Highlights.  

Our inspiration was delivered by Roy Anderson. He told us about his German cousins who speak English well compared to his basic German. He stated statistics about Americans having a low rate of second language speakers, while Germans have a high number of people speaking a second language, and many who speak more than two. Then he showed us a video clip demonstrating the problem of not knowing a second language well…

 

Tulip results 

We netted $28,000!

What went well:

  • Volunteers from other clubs

  • Dedicated equipment

  • Fabulous delivery people

  • Great efforts by our members

What could be better:

  • Simpler way of doing credit cards since one of the phones didn’t work all the time (better equipment). Update: Keith has already found what we need! 

  • Hours we’re open on the outside of the booth

  • Try a one-hour shift from 5-6 to see if sales go up

  • We may need another scheduling system or lessons on how  to use Sign-Up Genius  more effectively 

  • Get one person to manage the club visits. Update: Audrey volunteered!

  • Check with clubs before visiting to make sure they want us to sell tulips AND will buy

  • Sell tulips in Anacortes? Check with the Anacortes Rotary Clubs to make sure they don’t mind.  

Volunteer hours

Even though attendance is no longer required,  it is still looked at when we apply for grants or awards.  Volunteer hours can count for make-ups as well as show our involvement in good works. Attendance and volunteer hours are both recorded in the new Club Runner system, NOVA.

Members should record the hours they volunteer with our club and with other organizations.

            

Every Rotarian Every Year

Dennis announced that all our club members have participated in EREY which designates a combined $100 to the Annual Fund and/or Polio Plus!  
Also, some members are very close to Major Donor status, a lifetime combined giving of $10,000 to The Rotary Foundation Annual Fund and/or to Polio Plus. 

 

Auction

Audrey  announced the following committee chairs:

Desserts-Tate and Lori

Volunteers-Connie

High School Volunteers-Lori

Decorations and Raffle Bling-Patsy

 

We will have two raffles: Best of live for $100 and 5050 for $50 or maybe $25.

We have 4 sponsorships so far. Mike Cook will follow up with other potential sponsors.

Our Paul Harris recipient is nearly chosen based on the votes received. If you haven’t voted, DO IT NOW!

A question was raised. Should we honor more people? More discussion to follow.

 

Ollie won the $195 raffle!

Calendar

  • Monday, June 1, 5:30pm: Visit Del Gratia Gallery with  Deryl Walls followed by dinner at 6:30pm at Seafood and Prime Rib

  • Tuesday, June 9, 10-12: Helping Hands Volunteering

  • Thursday, June  11, 5:30pm: Social at The Rex

 

Helping Hands sort 2026
Every month, La Conner Rotary helps out at Helping Hands.
We also fund Helping Hands to provide food bags to La Conner students.
Here, we sort incoming donations into 18 or more categories, distinguishing between flavored and unflavored pasta, etc.
Moltobello opening and club social

At our May 11 meeting, the inspiration was provided by Lyanne  Gronning, who gave us her Mother’s dictionary. See Read more ..  at the end of this.

David Kas explained the reasons the Fork at Skagit Bay changed to Moltobello.  With the Bellingham Fork restaurant being sold, they couldn’t keep the Fork name here. That gave David and Nora the opportunity to change course and open an Italian Restaurant. David lived in Italy, speaks Italian, and learned Italian cooking.  Our club will be holding our social there on Thursday, 5/14 at 5:30 pm. We decided to take the family-style option, so we each get to sample more food

Since there were no objections, and she has already been approved by the board, Candy Lee is now a member of the Rotary Club of  La Conner.

 

Our club is submitting a grant to provide CPR training for the La Conner/Swinomish community. We were given a chance to take the class with just club members but decided to wait and be part of the community effort. That allows us to interact with people.

 

Marty, Martin, and Keith took a tour of the Didgwalic wellness center. The center sees 500 people a day! The three  Rotarians were very impressed! 

 

ClubRunner, the club's website tool,  was updated to NOVA at 8 pm on Monday, 5/11. You are welcome to participate in online training if you wish to do so.

 

Skagit County Clean Energy Advisory Board  3 seats open to any Skagit County resident

 

Calendar

Wednesday, May 13, 5:30pm: Scholarship Selection on zoom. Let Connie know if you will be attending.

 

            Thursday, May 14, 5:30pm: Club Social at Molotobello (the old Fork) 

 

            Sunday, May 17, 9-3: Camp Korey Volunteer Day

 

Monday, May 18, 5:00pm: Auction Committee Meeting followed by the club business meeting and board meetings  

 

Saturday, May 23, 9:00am: Volunteers are needed to place flags on graves: at 17666 Valentine Road

             

            Monday, May 25: Memorial Day,  No Meeting..Pleasant Ridge Cemetery Memorial Day Celebration, 9am

 

Monday, June 1: 5th Monday done on the 1st Monday: Visit Del Gratia Gallery with Deryl Walls, followed by dinner at Seafood and Prime Rib

 

Thursday, June 11: Social at The Rex

 

Monday, July 6th: Installation

Read more...
Chinese Culture  Shen Yun

At our May 4, 2026 Rotary meeting, the inspiration was by Doug.  Doug noted that on this day in 1987, the Supreme Court ruled that women must be allowed in Rotary. Rotary International fought the admission of women for decades, but finally accepted the ruling.   Today, women make up close to 30% of the membership.   LC Rotary is 50%  women.  

Besides our speaker, our guests were Wen Lu, Patsy’s guest, and Seaver Milnor (online).

Our Speaker:  Wen Chen is a staff scientist at the California Institute of Technology, 

Chen came to the U.S. in 1994 for graduate school and earned a doctorate in biology from the California Institute of Technology in 2000. Since 2012, she has given over 200 presentations about Chinese culture, history, and human rights. 

She is a member of Amnesty International and coordinates all activities related to China while working as a human rights activist.

In her second appearance at our La Conner Rotary Club, Wen Chen focused on the Cultural History of China. She shared just a very small story about the more than 2000-year history of this very diverse nation (52 different ethnic groups).   From the First century, the Emperor emphasized the native Taoist religion, promoting spiritual guidance.  Buddhism came from India, 2000 years ago.  Cultural influenced by 3 major religions.  Tao Chi, which focused on physical and mental health as well as faith still plays an important role in China, as do all the religions.  In the 8th century, China was like the US as far as foreigners coming for education.   As they came to China, they embraced Chinese culture.  1966 - 76 Maoism - shut down all religions and schooling.  Burned ancient objects. Wen described this period as a “Holocaust” - the destruction of historic structures.   Mao/Govt. simplified over 2000 characters of their written language to limit anything objectionable to the Communist Message.  During those 10 years, a generation was lost because schools were closed, and learning was forbidden.  Still persecuting religions.  The Bible has been rewritten to match the Communist Doctrine.   Falun Gong, a movement striving to elevate their moral character ( over 100 million members), has suffered terrible persecution.

Wen Chen ended with information about the Shen Yun movement.  The dancers travel throughout the county sharing the elaborate dances that depict dramas of Chinese history - legends, such as the Monkey King Story - based on real history.  Dance began as martial arts, which came from Taoism.  Very different from Ballet.  Every dynasty has different costumes, which are reflected in the dances.  Very vibrant color, giant long sleeves to indicate wealth.   All 52  ethnic groups, each have their own culture (and dance). All the proceeds from the performances go to support the Shen Yin high school and college in upstate New York.  9 groups of students who perform around the world.  3 months during the winter.  Money raised pays tuition and room and board for students.  During Covid,  they began an online store, clothing, etc.  All made in America (couldn’t be made in China ).  shenyun.com. for more information.

Upcoming:
5/14  5:30PM Next social Thursday Monto Bello - closing the Fork to become  Monto Bello.  
5/17 9AM-3PM  Camp Korey Volunteer Day 
6/11  at Rexville Restaurant for next Social Evening

Club Runner change over to Nova discussed.  6 - 8 are using it.  There was discussion about changing now or wait til there is no choice. No decision made.

Don Wick picked a blue marble.  Mike got $5.  Tate got last $5.

Pam took out a second mortgage on her house for birthday bucks!  Happy Birthday!

 

 

 
 
 

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Hospice NW foundation 2026
At our Aprl 27 Club Meeting,  for Inspiration Don Wolf discussed the history of the 4 Way Test
developed by Herbert Taylor as a way to save a failing business. When Herbert Taylor took over Club Aluminum, the Code of Ethics for the company was long and no one knew what it was. When Mr. Taylor came up with the 4 Way Test, he used it himself for 3 or 4 months before taking it to the department heads, 4 people with 4 different religions. Each said that not only would the 4 Way Test not be offensive in any of their religions, but it would also be supportive of all of them. The 4 Way  Test went to the employees who used it and found that the business model carried over to everyday life. After 10 years, the once-failing company paid stockholders over a million dollars.
The 4 Way Test: 24 words, 4 important questions!

Eagles Nest Club
Three members of the Eagles Nest Club, Rosie Aviles Arizona, president, Angie Peña, and Bella Rio Caba,
and their advisor, Olimpia Zuniga,  thanked the Rotary  Club of  La Conner for the grant that made it possible for the club to send 23 members, 7  high school and 16 middle school, to the Woodland Park Zoo. They reported that they had a wonderful time and told us about their favorite animals. Rosie, Angie, and Bella are all high school students and said they enjoyed interacting with the middle school students on the field trip. They also loved going to Chick-fil-A for lunch.
Olimpia explained that the club was created two years ago through the Migrant Education Program to provide resources for students.  Last year, our Rotary club sent club members to the Seattle  Aquarium.
 
Speaker
Philip Prud’homme, Development Director for Hospice of the Northwest, has worked with many non-profits since moving to Skagit Valley from Austin, Texas. He distributed an information pamphlet with a story about our member, Jerry  Willins, and showed a slide of a llama who is a therapy animal. Philip has a close personal connection to hospice since his mother was on it for 4 months before her passing in March.
Philip explained hospice care eligibility and services, noting that patients with a terminal condition and a prognosis of less than 6 months to live can be admitted, with some staying on hospice care for up to 2 years. He described Hospice of the Northwest as a local, not-for-profit organization serving residents in Skagit, San Juan, Island, and Snohomish counties, with about 256 patients currently under care and supported by 100 employees and 60-65 volunteers. 12% of patient hours are completed  by volunteers. Philip highlighted the differences between not-for-profit and for-profit hospices, emphasizing that not-for-profits provide more patient visits, serve anyone regardless of ability to pay, and can offer additional services like massage, music therapy, animal therapy, and bereavement care while for-profits often redirect funds to corporate headquarters. 70% of hospice programs are for-profit. Hospice of the Northwest is a non-profit co-owned by Skagit Regional Public Hospital District 1 and United General Public Hospital District 304. The West Winds Motel allows unhoused hospice patients to stay in their rooms.
Philip also discussed their veterans’ program, which holds Level 4 status and provides specialized care for military patients, including recognition ceremonies and a Memorial Day garden.
Philip shared a video of a family's experience with pediatric hospice care for their son Cam, who has Rett syndrome, a rare neurological genetic disorder. They described their care team who provide comprehensive support tailored to the family's needs. The video emphasized the importance of pediatric hospice care, highlighting how it has significantly impacted their family's quality of life and Cam's resilience. They also discussed the community support provided by Hospice of the Northwest, including financial assistance and medical supplies.
Many of our club members have attended and supported the Hospice of the Northwest Auction.
Guests besides the above were Kara Stambach from Hospice of the Northwest.

New Member News : 
Turner McGarity was awarded his own badge, Rotarian in Training, as he sat on a stool near the podium. Congratulations, Turner!
Candy Lee
Candy is a Rotarian currently in the Seattle Club who wants to transfer to our club. She has supported our club over the years with donations and auction packages. As a great friend of Danielle Mullen, she even installed Danielle when Danielle became president of our club. Candy lives in Yakima, but through the power of zoom, can be a member in La Conner. The board approved Candy’s transfer request. There is a 14-day period to allow members to raise any concerns, and if there are none, she will be transferred to our membership.

Tulips! Our Make It Happen Club in Action!
Our tulip selling season has concluded! Ollie reported that we purchased 154  boxes, sold 153 ½ and the last half box was donated to the Sunrise Food Bank to give to patrons coming to pick up food. Thank you to everyone who participated in the selling season!
 
Calendar
May 7:  2PM Didgwalic Field Trip (Audrey will confirm with those who are signed-up to attend.)
May 12, Tuesday, 10am-12pm: Helping Hands Food Bank Volunteering
May 14, Thursday, 5:30: La Conner Rotary Social at the “Mystery Italian Restaurant in La Conner”
May 17, Sunday 9am-3pm: Camp Korey Volunteer Day (See the 4.20.26 Meeting Highlights for details.)
           
Helping Hands April 2026
Every month La Conner Rotary helps package food at Helping Hands.
We also fund Helping Hands to provide food bags to La Conner students.
Here we are creating a special cereal blend that just can't be found in stores.
Parents have kids asking for our special blend once they get it.
 
Club update April 2026
At our April 20 club update,  Audrey gave the following inspiration:
“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better" (Maya Angelou).
         "Success is not final; failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts" (Winston S. Churchill).
         "Believe you can and you're halfway there" (Theodore Roosevelt).
Our Guest this evening,  Mary Gilmore, a friend of Audrey’s from Spokane
                       
Marty reviewed all our club goals and announced that we have successfully achieved 27 of our 28 goals. An increase in membership is the one goal remaining.
Ollie reported that we have purchased 142 boxes of tulips already with another 10 boxes coming on Thursday. He thanked everyone for their active participation.
 
Auction
Audrey said our auction “Save the Date” cards will be out by May 1.
She will send members the list of those nominated to receive Paul Harris recognition at the auction to solicit their feedback.
Doug suggested honoring more people and others suggested  “The Make It Happen Award” or the “Catalyst Award” as possible tittles for awardees who make our Rotary work possible.
           
Dolly Parton Imagination  Library
The WA State Legislature did not fund the Dolly Parton Imagination Library during their session, effectively ending the whole state sponsorship of the program as of the end of June. This means that we will not have half our bill paid through the state program. We fortunately anticipated this possibility and budgeted enough to cover the whole cost. Our program will continue as it did before the state program was initiated.
           
Scholarships
The Scholarship Committee will meet at the Milliken’s home on May 13 at 5:30 to select our scholarship winners. All members are welcome to join this group!
Please let  Connie know if you would like to participate.
 
Calendar
            May 1-3, Friday-Sunday: District Conference at Harrison Hot Springs
            May 6 at 2pm. Wednesday, Didgwalic Wellness Center Field Trip - detail to follow from Audrey who Is coordinating.
            May 9, 7pm: Shelter Bay Chorus Spring Concert
            May 12, 10-12: Helping Hands Food Bank Volunteering
            May 14, Thursday: La Conner Rotary  Social
            May 17, Sunday, 9am-3pm: Camp Korey Volunteer Day  (See details below.)
            May 17, Sunday 6pm; Skagit River Poetry Auction at Hillcrest  Park
                                        
Camp  Korey Letter and Details
Hello from Camp Korey!  We are excited to share that spring has officially sprung here in beautiful Skagit County! 
 
I wanted to reach out and invite you to join us at our upcoming Spring Volunteer Day on Sunday, May 17th!  This annual volunteer day is vital to helping prep us for a summer of programming and serving kids with complex and life altering medical conditions and their families! We would love to have you join us and welcome you to Camp Korey for the day!  
 
First off, thank you so much for spending your Sunday with us!  Aside from volunteering with Camp Korey on May 17th, you can also help us celebrate :
·                National Mushroom Hunting Day (Gardening and outdoor projects)
·                National Linda Day - If your name is Linda...you will get extra special treatment all day long! 
·                National Pack Rat Day (decluttering and cleaning!)
·                World Baking Day - (Our amazing kitchen crew would love to get your help!)
·                Mental Health Awareness Month- Camp Korey is a place where all are welcome and a safe space for people to learn, grow, and be together!  Join us and breathe the fresh air and be part of something good for the mind, body and soul!
  • When: Sunday, May 17th, 2026
    • Gate will open at 8:30 am
  • Where: Camp Korey – 24880 Brotherhood Rd. Mount Vernon, WA 98274
    • Enter the gate and head up the hill to the Harnish Hive (the big red building up at the top). There will be staff directing you where to park.
  • FAQ’S:
    • What will we be doing?
      • We will have a wide variety of projects for all abilities and skill sets that you can sign up for! Some sample projects:
        • Gardening/weeding/landscaping
        • Cleaning  (vehicles, windows, program spaces)
        • Program Support (Camp to You kits assembly, Birthday Card making, t-shirt rolling for summer, painting projects)
        • General Handy “person” tasks (caulking, gutter cleaning, pressure washing, installing light fixtures, etc.)
        • Pressure washing
        • Painting
        • And much more!
    • What should I bring?
      • Camp will have the majority of supplies needed for the projects you sign up for!  If you do have gardening tools or gloves that you like and you want to help with that, please feel free to bring your own!
      • We are very short on weed whackers though, so if you want to weed whack and have one you can bring, we would LOVE and APPRECIATE that A LOT! 
    • Is lunch provided?
      • YES!  We will have lunch that will accommodate most dietary restrictions
      • And we will have snacks…who doesn’t love snacks?!
      • We will also have water and drinks throughout the day.
    • Do I need to register? 
      • We would really, really appreciate you registering using the QR code on the flyer or follow this link.  This way we can get a better idea of how many projects to plan for, meals to cook, and supplies to purchase! 
    • Do I need to stay for the entire day?
      • Nope!  We are grateful for the time you can give to us!
    • I am bringing my kids, what can they do?
      • We are thrilled you are sharing in opportunities of service with your entire family!  If you are bringing a minor, they will need to stay with an adult from your group or family.  We can’t provide childcare on this particular day!  There are some projects that are perfect for all ages!
    • I want to bring someone who didn’t register/someone who registered can’t come               
      • YAY! Bring them! / We will miss you and hope to see you soon!
    • Dress for the projects you want to do!  
Schedule:
8:30 – 9:30 am: Check-in, waivers, introductions, project sign-ups, and coffee
9:30 am-12:15 pm Work projects
12:15-1 pm: Lunch provided by Camp Korey
1 pm - 2:45 pm: Work Projects
2:45 pm-3 pm: Clean-up
3 pm:  THANK YOU!! Have a fantastic day!
We could not do what we do without the incredible support of volunteers, teams, individuals, and organizations like yours, and you!  Thank you so much for your love of camp and heart of service! 
Please reach out if you have any questions or need any additional information!
 
Nichol Ellis (she/her/hers) 
Camp Korey | Community Engagement Manager
O (360) 416-4122 | C (360) 510-0340
 
 
 
 
Fire District 13 Chief 2026

 
At our April 13 Club Meeting,  the Inspiration was provided by Don Wolf:
            Doubt kills more dreams than failure ever will.
           Keep your face always toward the sunshine, and shadows will fall behind you.
            Your talent determines what you can do.
            Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right.
            Life isn’t about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.
 
           Today is National Scrabble Day.
 
Our Guests:  Phil Ohl,  Turner McGarity, Seaver Milnor, and Chris Weiss
           
Wood Weiss, Fire District 13 Chief, was our Speaker.
 
Wood Weiss was a Doctor of Chiropractor for 30 years. In 1998 while mountain biking at Whistle Lake, his friend had a heart attack and despite CPR by other friends for 40 minutes, died. (It turned out that he had a heart defect.)  Wood had to go for help and didn’t know how to do CPR. This had a profound effect on him, so, Wood went to the Hope Island Fire Department to learn CPR and ended up becoming a volunteer firefighter. Then he became an EMT, a trainer for CPR, and finally a fire chief in 2019.
Fire District 13 is 72 square miles, the largest in the county. It is a hybrid district with part-time, full-time, and volunteer firefighters. Wood explained their current 24-7 system that provides at least three firefighter EMTs for every call, and mentioned their CARES program, which is funded by a $225,000 annual tribal grant and helps community members with various issues including mental health. A $225 grant from the tribe every year pays for the Cares Program. There were 1400 calls this past year. “Good Morning District 13” works like this: Registered people call in every morning. If they don’t call, the fire department calls them. After 2 calls are not answered, the fire department goes to the home. If no one answers the door, they go in and make sure the people are okay and helps them if they are not.
 
The department bought a new tender, which carries water for firefighting, at a cost of $670,000. They call it a “tengine” because it is both a tender and an engine. They are buying a new engine and need a new aid car.
 
Fire doubles every minute it’s not being fought so the decreased response time the department has achieved is very important.
 
The firefighters/EMTs receive 2500 hours of training each year. Chief Wood would like to teach our club members CPR. His class is 3 hours and would cost each person a special Rotary rate of about $35. There was overwhelming support for this.
 
70% of what is spent by the department spent is on personnel. The receive $825,000 from the Swinomish Tribe. Fire Department 13 is respectful of the Tribe and its members, understands they are located on tribal land, and are part of the community.         
 
The Tulip Parade day was wet, but our participants looked festive and represented Rotary well.
Four members attended Rotary District 5050 Assembly on Saturday and found it to be worthwhile.
           
Calendar:
May 14th Social at the super-secret Italian Restaurant
May 1-3: District Conference at Harrison Hot Springs
 August 3rd Big Lake Picnic

 
Rotaract Luncheon 2026
The Golden Hour provided us with amazing food.  The young people from the teen center were delightful.
Thank you for inviting us to learn more of the good work the Rotaract is doing. 
 
 
 
Sa2026lmon BBQ Social 
In support of the La Conner Kiwanis club, we had our monthly social at the Kiwanis Salmon BBQ in Hill Crest park.
 
 
 
 
Northwest Straits Foundation 2026
 
At our April 6th Club Meeting,  Don Wolf's Inspiration
April is a time for renewal, growth, and vibrant change, acting as a reminder that transformation is beautiful and inevitable. Embrace this month to turn over a new leaf, cultivate fresh goals, and step into the sunlight. April invites you to bloom boldly, plant seeds of hope and embrace new beginnings.
 
Then Don asked the club, “If April showers bring May flowers, what do Mayflowers bring? We didn’t have the  advantage of seeing ‘Mayflowers’ in writing so no one had Don’s correct answer: pilgrims
 
Molly McNulty, Executive Director of the Skagit River Poetry Foundation, unveiled the new Poetry Festival Poster and said she chose this work by Cathy Schonberg, Artist and Skagit River Poetry  Festival Poster painter, because of the open book that was blank.
Molly asked Cathy to add  a line from “Kindness” a poem by the Festival’s featured poet, Naomi Shihab Nye: “Then it is only kindness that makes sense.”       
  
Genny Bisagna, Skagit River Poetry Foundation Board Member and her son Jack, and Bill Reynolds, La Conner Community News Reporter, and Dave Kas, Co-owner of The Fork at Skagit Bay, also attended.
 
 
Our speakers 
Brittany Ahmann, Board Member, Northwest Straits Foundation
Jason Morgan Northwest Straits Foundation Marine Programs Manager
Program: Northwest Straits Foundation, Partners in Marine Conservation
Their mission is to restore and preserve the long-term health of the Salish Sea.
Vision: Achieve a more resilient marine and nearshore environment across the Salish Sea by fostering collaboration, encouraging stewardship and conservation, and implementing science-based restoration.
Brittany Ahmann and Jason Morgan gave a compelling presentation on their marine conservation work including nearshore restoration and derelict fishing gear removal in the Salish Sea. They discussed their various programs, including restoring over 6,000 linear feet of nearshore habitat and removing over 14,000 abandoned crab pots and fishing nets since 2002. Unrecovered pots and nets trap and kill marine animals.
The Northwest Straits Foundation website is excellent and goes into detail about their work, how a person can become involved and the Foundation’s successes. I highly recommend spending some time checking it out!
 
Farmers and Merchants Evening
Marty thanked Doug Moore for his outstanding work on this outstanding event. We had 29 no-shows of registered guests so that issue will need considering before next year’s event.
 
 Lyanne gave a preview of our Rotary Tulip parade costume:
                 
Calendar:
          April 17, 5:30: Club Social at Kiwanis Salmon BBQ at Hilcrest Park
April  20, 5pm: Auction Committee Meeting followed by Club Business and Update Meeting, followed by Board Meetings
          May 1-3, District Conference at Harrison Hot Springs
 
Farmers and Merchants 2026
La Conner Rotary again hosted farmers and merchants for an annual appreciation night dinner and update.   (Marty Pease center - hands clasped)
A wonderful dinner was catered by La Conner Seafood and Prime Rib (Doug Moore bottom left),
and Skagit Crest Vineyard & Winery graciously provided wine.
Opening remarks by Doug Moore, who organized the event, and Rotary Club of La Conner President, Marty Pease.
Brianna Wilson, Chair of La Conner Emergency Management Commission, spoke,
as did La Conner Community News Editor and publisher,  Kari Mar.                                               
                                                   
Economic Development Alliance of Skagit County CEO, John Sternlicht, spoke and finally 
Mayor Marna Hanneman gave a Town of La Conner Update
                    
Club goals and awards March 2026
At our March 16 Club Meeting, Audrey’s inspiration came from Derek Penwell and was titled: Joy, Stubbornly: On mourning doves, making breakfast, and practicing presence in a frightened world
 
The last paragraph was:
Maybe that’s what joy is, finally. Not a feeling you chase or a fortress you build. It’s a practice of presence, a small act of defiance against every force that wants to keep your eyes down and your heart closed. It says: this moment is real. These children are real. This coffee, this bird, this brisk morning air filling your lungs.
 
You can find the whole text at:
Club Goals
Marty shared the club goals and how we are doing on achieving them. Membership is still a work in progress. 
 
Awards
Marty presented Martin Howard his +5 Paul Harris pin. This means Martin has donated $6,000 to the Rotary International Foundation.
Marty received her +3 Paul Harris Pin. She said that  she finally realized that the projects that mean the most to her, like the International Project Alliance, are funded by District and Global Grants that can only be funded when people donate to the  RI Foundation.
 
Saturday, April 11: Tulip Parade in La Conner at noon
March Social 2026 
The club social at La Conner Brewing Company was enjoyed by all who attended.   
La Conner Rotary will be at the Kiwanis Salmon BBQ at Hillcrest Park on April 17 at 5:30
 
Tulip Booths Open 3/242026

Tulip booths OPEN Tuesday, March 24

We will open early March 24.
Come get your bunch of 10 tulips for just $7/bunch, cash or credit card from 11AM - 5PM every day.
We have booths at
Shawn O'Donnell's Farmhouse Restaurant, 11376 LaConner-Whitney Rd
and at
La Conner roundabout between La Conner fire station and Hedlin's produce stand.
Joe Bowen on Dr. King 2026
At our March 9 Rotary Meeting, Inspiration by Danielle with the following quotes:
  • Posted by Marcus Stanley
    When you wake up tomorrow, be thankful.
    Be thankful for your family. Be thankful for your friends.  Be thankful for the life  you have,  the roof over your head and the food you have to  eat.
    Hold someone a little tighter, stay a little longer and tell someone you love them.
     
  • Post from Advanced Life Skills
    The 3 C’s of life:   Choices, Chances, Changes
    You must make a choice to take a chance, or your life will never change.
     
  • Quote from My Positive Outlooks
    Always find a reason to laugh. It may not add years to your life, but it  will surely add  life to your years.
     
  • Jonas Slak refused to patent his polio vaccine in 1955. So, he lost $7 billion but made the medicine available to children around the world. Thanks to him, the incidence of this diagnosis decreased by 96%.
     
  • Abraham  Lincoln
    I say “Try”; if we never try, we shall never succeed.
     
  • John Adams
    To be good and do good is all we have to do.
Also Inspiring: An Email  from Jerry Willins
President Marty, I have few regrets but not being involved in our Rotary club is one of them.  I have had the privilege of serving in a number of civic roles including non profit and governmental organizations.  I say with no reservation whatsoever that the Rotary Club of La Conner exemplifies what a community changing, humanity serving, and individual giving institution can and should be.  Our small and mighty club raises a disproportionate amount of monies, clocks incredible personal hours, impacts local projects, and serves a community in Honduras with enough resources to meet their own needs with dignity and results.  I know that most Rotary clubs have the same commitment and drive but I don’t think anyone does it better.

I will continue my membership and donate what I can to Rotary International, I will always be an advocate of Rotary and our club.  I am a better person as I try to live up to the Four Way Test.  Thank you Marty and the rest of the membership for allowing me to be part of all that and more.  
 
Our guests: Joe Bowen, Dick and Irene Johnson, Turner McGarity
Speaker
Joe Bowen presented “What Would Martin Say? A Few Reflections on MLK Day 2026” which took us on a journey though the history of voting in the United States, the civil rights movement, the Voting Rights Act, and Martin Luther King, Jr.’s nonviolent involvement.
This led to the question, “What would Martin say today.”
Joe told us that this phase of history began in 1877 when the presidential election of 1876 was decided in favor of Hayes over Tilden by an electoral commission.  Democrats in Congress threatened to prevent the count of electoral votes but agreed to allow the count under the condition that federal troops be removed from southern states and that those states would control their own governments which allowed them to change voting laws for blacks and assert white supremacy.
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 were signed into law by  Lyndon B. Johnson and were precipitated by the non-violent protests of Martin  Luther King, Jr. and many others. MLK’s leadership earned him a Nobel Peace Prize in 1964 which he accepted in honor of all the people who non-violently “fought” alongside him.
Some MLK quotes:
  • It wasn’t me. I was just the spokesperson.
  • Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.
  • Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that; Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into friend.
  • Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.
He also believed that the decision of the moment will have consequences for generations to come which is like the Native American Seven Generations Principle.
MLK was arrested 29 times, stabbed twice, beaten, stoned, and assassinated. His house was bombed twice all because he had the audacity to speak up about injustice.
What would Martin Luther King, Jr. say now that voter rights are again being threatened for some people? Speak!  Stand up for voting rights! One voter, one vote!
Announcement:   Tulip  Sales will begin March 24th to allow members to go to the Chinook Enterprises Field Trip on March 23rd.
 
Birthdays/anniversaries:
3/8 Happy 10 years of being a Rotarian to Randy Goembel.
3/9 Happy Birthday to Dennis Milliken-a cake was shared with those in attendance.
 
Calendar:
Thursday, March 12, 5:30pm:  Rotary Social at The La Conner Brewery-Wear your Rotary Shirt and bring some friends!
Monday, March 23: Chinook Enterprises tour. 10:30-11:30am.  Lunch following at Gentlemen Genes. No evening Rotary Meeting!
Monday, March 24: Tulip Booths open. Sign up for your shifts  on the Sign-Up  Genius App that Adam sent
Saturday, March  28: Helping  Hearts and Hands presents Memory Round Up at  Swinomish  Yacht Club 10am-2pm. (Louise Edens is coordinating this event.)
Monday March 30, 5:30: Farmers and Merchants Appreciation Dinner at Maple Hall. RSVP on email from Doug. Sign-up to volunteer.
Saturday, April 11: District Assembly at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, 12666 72nd Avenue, Surrey, BC
Saturday, April 11: La Conner Tulip Parade
 
 
 
 
 
Skagit County Commissioner Peter Browning 2026
At our March 2nd Rotary meeting, Inspiration was provided by Doug Moore
In addition to March 2nd being a day to honor many things such as Texas Independence Day, National Old Stuff Day, World Teen Mental Health Wellness Day, and National Banana Cream Pie Day, it is also the birthday of Theodor Geisel aka Dr. Suess. For many years, his birthday has been celebrated as Read Across America to promote in children the joy of reading. Doug discussed Dr. Seuss's various pen names and book publications, including his real name Theodor Geisel and pseudonyms like Theo LeSieg and Rosetta Stone. He read excerpts from "Oh, the Places You'll Go" and passed around 8 Spanish-language Dr. Seuss books for members to sign. These will be added to our mobile library in Honduras. Thank you, Doug!
 
Our Guests included: Skagit Rotary Club members Peter Browning and Dale Ragan, Turner McGarityh, and Fidalgo Island Rotary member Dianna Jordan-New
 
Our Speaker was Skagit County Commissioner Peter Browning
Commissioner Browning discussed the county's budget situation, explaining that they are $19 million in deficit due to implementing competitive salaries to retain staff and giving raises of 7.5-9% to bring compensation in line with neighboring counties. In the past, Skagit County was a good training ground for employees who then went elsewhere for better pay. Now the well trained employes stay and work for Skagit County. Staff reductions will occur due to the budget deficits, but retirements will make this easier.
Peter outlined efforts to address the epic flooding issues, including negotiations with Seattle City Light for additional flood storage behind the dam, which will provide protection starting November 1st as part of a 50-year relicensing agreement. He said that as commissioner, his job is to protect life and property in Skagit County.
His presentation also covered the North Star project, which aims to provide alternative care for individuals experiencing mental health crises or substance abuse, rather than relying on expensive hospital or jail visits. The North Star project, which includes a new STAR Center opening in about 3 weeks and an evaluation and treatment center for court-ordered cases. He discussed plans to repurpose a building on Lila Lane into bridge housing for those transitioning out of the STAR Center. Peter also addressed housing challenges, including issues with Washington State Commerce Department’s "no barriers" policy which allows residents to continue to abuse drugs while in Commerce financed housing.
Additionally, he mentioned three new cases of difficult-to-treat tuberculosis in the county and described plans for salmon recovery efforts, including the purchase of Howler Farm to create an outstanding estuary.
Websites for information about the Skagit County Commissioners and Skagit County:
 
We’re Winners!  Our club won the Rotaract Gift Giving Contest!
 
The Shred-a-Thon was a success! We almost broke even on this first attempt.
 
Calendar
Saturday, March  7: Luck of the Irish 5pm at Maple Hall
Tuesday, March 10: Volunteering at Helping Hands Food Bank 10am - 12pm.
Thursday, March 12, 5:30pm:  Rotary Social at The La Conner Brewery

Monday, March 23: Tulip Booths open. 
Monday, March 23: Chinook Enterprises tour. 10:30-11:30am.  No evening Rotary Meeting!
March  28: Helping  Hearts and Hands presents Memory Round Up at Swinomish Yacht Club 10am-2pm. (Louise Edens is coordinating this event.)
Monday March 30, 5:30: Farmers and Merchants Appreciation Dinner at Maple Hall. RSVP on email from Doug. Sign-up to volunteer.
 
La Conner Fire Chief Aaron Reinstra
At our Feb 23 Rotary Meeting, for  Inspiration, Roy Anderson played a YouTube video of Nimble, the All-American Mixed Breed Dog, winning the agility championship at Westminster. If you want to enjoy it again, or for the first time, here is the link: (You may have to watch  an add before Nimble performs.)  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_-OhgzpSyWE
 
Our Speaker was Fire Chief Aaron Reinstra who is the only paid fireman in the La Conner Fire Department.
The other 25 are all volunteers, which was what Aaron was before he was selected as Fire Chief. Aaron is also the Town of La Conner’s Code Enforcer. He does pre-planning for houses and construction, boat checking to make sure the owners are paid up, and animal control. He is a fourth-generation La Conner graduate who met his wife in middle school and coached sports here for many years. Aaron discussed his role in managing the La Conner Fire Department, which includes overseeing volunteers, coordinating with other departments, and managing a limited budget. The department has 2 trucks and a marine fire boat.  One truck is 32 years old and needs replacement.  He highlighted the department's efforts in training, equipment maintenance, and community engagement, while also sharing personal anecdotes about his experiences as a firefighter. The state requires 165 hours of training for each firefighter every year. 3 people are currently going through EMT training and one is through an academy, adding 160-200 hours of additional training. There are 3 women volunteer firefighters in the department, one of whom is the Burlington Fire Marshall.
 
He said he always asks potential firefighters whether they would rather find out a friend needed help yesterday when they weren’t there to help or get up at 2:00am to help a stranger. You have to be the second kind of person to be a good firefighter and then treat all the people as if they are your grandma, grandpa, brother, sister, mom, or dad when you respond.
Announcements:
  • Join us,  Thursday, March 12 at La Conner Brewery for a social evening.
  • Our tulip parade marchers will have skirts and crocheted tulip hats, thanks to Lyanne and her daughter.
  • Tulips are expected to be early this year. Opening day for sales will be March 23rd.
  • The next two Helping Hands Food Packing are on March 10th and April 14th.
Calendar
  • Saturday,  February 28, 10-1: Shred-a-thon and old flag collection
  • Saturday, March  7: Luck of the Irish to support the Rotary YES program.
    Buy tickets online: https://auctria.events/LuckoftheIrish2024
  • Tuesday,  March  10: Volunteering at Helping  Hands Food Bank 10am-12pm
  • Saturday, March 21, 9-12: Spring Cleaning at Camp Kirby on Samish Island, no registration needed
  • Monday, March 23, 10:30-11:30 Field Trip to Chinook Enterprises (limit 20 members)
    Lunch at Gentlemen Gene’s Pub to follow. Danielle will have a sign-up at the meeting next week. Evening Meeting Cancelled on  3/23
  • Monday, March  30: Farmers and  Merchants Appreciation Dinner at Maple Hall
 
Presidents Day 2026
At our Feb. 16, 2026 Meeting,   4 Way Test story by Lori described how she used the 4 Way Test to change her attitude and Marty talked about how she used it to make a fair and beneficial transaction with a local business.
 
Lyanne gave the inspiration about Presidents Day.   See "Read More" for details.
 
Blood Drive
Friday, February 20th is the day to donate blood if you are able. It is at the La Conner High School gym, and they give you treats when you finish.  Register online at Bloodworks Northwest.
 
Rotary Attire
Lyanne has coordinated with Clever Kathy in La Conner to have La Conner Rotary shirts/sweatshirts/jackets available for purchase. She will have order blanks available next week and then order the items on Tuesday, February 24. Payment may be made to Lyanne by Venmo or check. Clever Kathy will keep the logo if someone wants to order something in the future. Be sure to wear your Rotary clothing to our social events!
 
Membership Activities
We will have a social event on March 12 at the La Conner Brewery. Bring friends and enjoy a strictly social time showing others what fun La Conner Rotarians have when we get together. Wear your new Rotary attire.
 
Tulip Parade
The Tulip Parade is on April 11th. We will have  5 members at the District Assembly and 2 selling tulips. Hopefully, everyone else will dress up as tulips and represent Rotary in the parade.
 
Large Project Report
Both large project grant requests, Log Park Updates and  Newspapers in the  Classroom, are being studied further before any decisions will be made.
 
Timing
After discussion, it was agreed that speakers be given a specific amount of time for presenting and answering questions. The rest of the meeting will run efficiently so our ending time will be consistent.
 
Calendar
  • Saturday,  February 28, 10-1: Shred-a-thon and old flag collection
  • Saturday, March  7: Luck of the  Irish to support the Rotary YES program.
  • Buy tickets online: https://auctria.events/LuckoftheIrish2024
  • Tuesday,  March  10: Volunteering at Helping  Hands Food Bank 10am-12pm
  • Thursday, March 12: Rotary Gathering at La Conner Brewery. Bring a  friend!
  • Saturday, March 21, 9-12: Spring Cleaning at Camp Kirby on Samish Island, no registration needed
  • Monday, March 23, 10:30-11:30 Field Trip to Chinook Enterprises (limit 20 members)
    Lunch at Gentlemen Gene’s Pub to follow. Danielle will have a sign-up at the meeting next week.
    Evening Meeting Cancelled on  3/23
  • March  28: Helping  Hearts and Hands presents Memory Round Up at  Swinomish  Yacht Club 10am-2pm. (Louise Edens is coordinating this event.)
  • Monday, March 30: Farmers and Merchants Dinner at Maple Hall.
Read more...
Reporter Bill Reynolds 2026
Feb. 9, Club Meeting Inspiration: Mike Cook
 
When Mike was a younger person, he was a bit confrontational, especially at work. He had a smart manager who sat him down and asked:  “Do you want to be right, or do you want to be rich?” Relationships are damaged by always trying to be right. Mike recommended that we cut down the number of things we have an opinion about. He has about 5 things that really matter
 
Program:
Bill Reynolds La Conner Community News
 
Bill Reynolds, a journalist with 50 years of experience, shared his connection to the La Conner Rotary Club, recalling his father's involvement as a charter member and his own childhood experiences attending meetings. He described his father's meticulous approach to tracking Rotary club meetings across North America during their summer travels.
Bill also recounted several memorable news stories from his career in La Conner, including a Christmas toy drive incident involving an unexpected handgun donation and a story about a man who stripped naked and climbed onto a bank building after ingesting hallucinogenic mushrooms. The article was labeled “Naked Man Draws Interest on  Bank Building”. Bill shared several memorable stories from his time as a journalist in La Conner, including covering a plane crash, interviewing celebrities like Danny DeVito and Roy Rogers, reporting on local events, and interviewing local people like Patsy’s dad, Pat Good. He discussed the challenges of modern journalism compared to the past, particularly in terms of infusing humor into articles.
 
Our club members thoroughly enjoyed Bill's stories!
 
Awards: Dennis and Connie Milliken were presented pins for being Rotary International Major Donors Level  2
Calendar
  • Saturday, March 21, 9-12: Spring Cleaning at Camp Kirby on Samish Island, no registration needed
  • Monday, March 23, 10:30-11:30 Field Trip to Chinook Enterprises (limit 20 members)
    Lunch at Gentlemen Gene’s Pub to follow. Evening Meeting Cancelled on  3/23
 
Summit Assistance Dogs 2026
At our Feb. 2 Club Meeting, Inspiration was provided by Pam, who shared " For the Garden of Your Daily Living."   See Read More for details.
 
Sabrina Hill, one of our Youth Engaged in Service (YES)- sponsored students, told us she has until March 1 to sell $1,500 worth of Raffle Tickets for $10 each. She offered our club members an opportunity to support her mission.
Program from Carlin Padgett from Summit Assistance Dogs with support and demonstration from Heather Anderson, advanced trainer, and Sherry, a yellow labrador retriever.
Summitt Assistance breeds dogs (yellow, black, or chocolate labs and golden retrievers, or a mix of those) to assist people with mobility issues. In their ten years of existence, they have placed 132 dogs. Dogs learn how to retrieve dropped items, open doors and drawers, and be of service to people with mobility issues. Puppies begin at the 40 room Canine Condo at Summit Assistance, then go to a foster family to live and be socialized, then to the Prison Program at Monroe Correctional Institution. Currently, there are 8 dogs in the prison program. The dogs live in the cell with the training inmate. The men work in pairs, attend classes twice a week, and train their assigned dogs. This program is good for both the men and the dogs. Then, the dogs return to Summit for advanced training. Throughout all the training, only positive reinforcement is used. We saw this demonstrated. Male dogs develop a bit slower than female dogs, just like people, so they are placed a couple of months later than females.
The average wait for a dog is 2-5 years, and at about 2 years of age, dogs are carefully matched with clients.  They work together for 6 to 8 years. Then the dog retires from working but can remains as a pet for the client or becomes a pet for someone else. The client is qualified to get a new service dog when their first one retires. While dogs are in service, Summit still owns them and can take them back if they don’t receive proper care. Each dog cost about $50,000  but are provided to clients free so no one ever has to go without a needed mobility service dog because they can’t pay. Summit Assistance gladly accepts individual and service club donations. Our club will plan a visit to the Oak Harbor site.
 
Calendar
Feb 7  6-8: Skagit Valley Historical Museum Valentine Soiree
February 10  10-12: Helping Hands volunteering
Feb. 20  9-3:  Blood Drive at La Conner High School
Feb 28  10-1: Shred-a-thon and  the fire department will also take old flags to be retired.
March 7: Luck of the Irish at Maple Hall, buy tickets online
March 7 or March 28: Grant Seminar online - Dennis and Lori are registered.
March 30: Farmers and Merchants Dinner
 
Our guest Carlin Padgett won the raffle receiving $285!
 
Next meeting: February 9 Bill Reynolds La Conner Community News
Read more...
AI and you 2026
At our Jan. 26 Rotary meeting, for the Inspiration, Adam played a file he created about the history of a Norwegian immigrant, Magnus Anderson, whose original cabin is in La Conner. Adam asked us to think about immigrants historically and in the present day. You can view and listen to Adam’s file by clicking on this link:
 
La Conner Rotarian Keith Stobie talked about Artificial Intelligence. His entire presentation is accessible at the following link: (The presentation must be downloaded as microsoft powerpoint to appear correctly.)
The following is the AI Quick Recap provided by Zoom:
Keith delivered an in-depth overview of AI chatbots and their applications. Keith demonstrated various AI tools, including ChatGPT, and provided tips for using them effectively, emphasizing the importance of verifying information and setting appropriate temperature settings.
The group discussed upcoming events, including a blood drive, a food bank shredding event, and planned visits to local organizations like Chinook Enterprises and Summit Assistance Dogs.
 
Calendar
  • 2/10 Tuesday 10A: Helping Hands: Currently  signed-up Marty, Lyanne, Keith, Roy, Don, Dennis, Mike
  • 2/20 Friday: Blood Drive
  • 2/28 Saturday: Shred-a-thon for Sunrise Food Bank in the  parking lot behind the school gym, $10/box
  • 3/7 or 3/28 Saturday: District 5050 Grants Seminar
  • 3/7 Saturday: Luck of the Irish-Register at:  https://app.auctria.com/Message/View/cb0b49ef-03bf-48d0-b987-db7cf81812af
  • 3/21 Saturday, 9-11: Work day at Camp Kirby
 
 
 
 
Every Rotarian Every Year 2026
At our Jan. 19 Rotary Meeting, we had guests: Bella Haughey, Ellen Lemon, Charles Lemon, Rosi Rizo, and Honorary Member Irene Johnon.
 
Bella Haughey,  a Youth Engaged in Service (YES) student sponsored by Fidalgo Island Rotary, presented the history of the 4 Way Test.  She did a wonderful job of explaining how Herbert  J. Taylor  in 1932, while trying to save his business, created the four questions for his employees to ask themselves as they dealt with customers. The employees started using the questions in their dealings with each other as well, and the company thrived. The Four  Way Test was adopted by  Rotary in 1943, and in 1954 Herbert J. Taylor became Rotary International President.
The Four Way Test
Is it the truth?
Is it fair to all concerned?
Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
Will it be beneficial to all concerned
 
Inspiration Lori talked about the  “Human Impact for Meningococcal Disease”. She shared her son  Carl’s experience with the disease which he contracted at age 14. He lost both his legs below the knees, three fingers, and had the skin burned off his arms and legs. Many who get the disease don’t survive. Lori was on the board of the National Meningitis Association for 17 years during which  time the cases of the disease went from 3,500 to less than 300. In 2019 the Association retired because meningitis vaccines were recommended/required. Now that the vaccines are no longer recommended by the CDC, the Association and some professionals reconvened to redo the impact statement from which Lori shared highlights.
 
Rosi Rizo, one of our YES students, sold tickets to help  her reach her goal for the YES  program. We are also sponsoring her to attend Rotary Youth Adventures in Leadership (YAIL).
 
Reports
  • Audrey: Auction Update: Sponsorship Levels will be $500, $1,000, $2,500, $5,000. Please let Audrey know of potential sponsors to be contacted.
  • Lori: Large Project: La Conner Log Park and Newspapers in Education have been submitted. The deadline for submitting applications is January 31.
  • The Shred-a-thon to benefit La Conner Sunrise Food Bank will be February 28.  This is sponsored by La Conner Thrives of which La Conner Rotary is a member.
  • Doug : Farmers and Merchants Dinner: March 30, Catered by La Conner Seafood and Prime Rib Speakers:
Brianna Wilson, chair of the La Conner emergency management committee
Kari Marr, publisher of La Conner Community News
John Sternlicht, CEO of Economic Development Alliance of Skagit County (EDASC)
Marna Hanneman, Mayor ofLa Conner
Maybe someone from the dike district
  • Dennis: Every Rotarian Every Year (EREY): Dennis announced that 20 of our members have met the goal of giving $100 to the Rotary International Annual Fund or Polio Plus. He distributed badge stickers to those people.
  • Audrey presented Marty an End Polio Now certificate for our club's support.
                   
Next Week:  Membership Meeting immediately after the Rotary Meeting
                                   
Campfire Samish 2026
At our Jan. 12 Rotary meeting, Marty provided the inspiration, reading from Theo of Golden by Allen Levy. (See Read More at end)
 
Adam presented our Rotary check for $1,850 for camperships to Marcus Roskamp from Campfire Samish. This is double what was asked for in the grant request, but the board felt like it was such a worthwhile cause, they doubled it. This goes directly to families in need. All camp experiences are at Camp Kirby on Samish Island.

Marcus spoke briefly:
  1. Overnight Camp: They have already had requests for $15,000 for scholarships for camp, even though camp is not until summer. 800 campers are served in this one week, over-night camp program. There are not enough beds for more. There are seven sessions every summer.
  2. Day camp serves younger kids or kids not ready for overnight
  3. Outdoor School is for school districts, generally 5th grade, for 3 days and 2 nights. There was an outdoor school fund in state budget, now no longer. School districts are looking to other organizations to help fund outdoor school.
*All these camps are outdoor-based and technology-free.
 
Our Rotary Youth Engaged in Service students make use of Camp Kirby for leadership training and volunteer activities.
 
Spring and fall work parties would be a great time for our club to volunteer.
 
Keith conducted an audience survey about what people would like to know about Artificial Intelligence in preparation for his presentation on January 26th.
 
Happy  Birthday and welcome home Danielle! January 5th    
 
Classroom Snacks:
Marty and Dennis will shop and deliver the snacks.  Christi has been doing this, but her efforts are needed to take care of  Chris and her mom. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
 
Marty discussed Homeless families, what could we do to support.
5th graders in La Conner are distributing the weekend food.
 
Calendar
Monday, January 19:  Auction Meeting at 5:00pm
Monday, January 26: Membership Meeting following Club Meeting
Saturday, January 31: Deadline for Large Projects to be submitted.  So far Log Park and newspapers in the school
          
Saturday, February 28: Shred-a-thon with La Conner United
Shred-a-thon cost: $1050, charge $10/box, club signs and banners, table with coffee and brochures. The proceeds after recouping the cost of the shredding company will go to the Sunrise Food Bank.
Read more...
Property Tax in Washington: Strengths, Challenges, and Senior Support 2026
 
At our January 5, 2026 club meeting.  Keith Stobie provided inspiration about the New Year. (See Read More at end)
 
Guests : Dawn and Mark Marszal, Rosslyn Tellvik, Phil Ohl, and Danny Hagan
 
Speaker : Don Wick introduced our speaker: Danny Hagan, Skagit County Assessor, and highlighted his many civic leadership roles, including his membership in the Burlington Rotary. Danny’s topic:
Property Tax in Washington: Strengths, Challenges, and Senior Support
Danny told us that property tax is the most stable form of revenue in Washington, is a clear, visible, public process with local accountability. It is a budget-based system that is relatively low cost to administer. Danny has spoken to us before about how property tax works, but his emphasis in this talk was on:
 
The Senior and Disabled Exemption Program
It is designed to reduce the property tax burden for seniors and people with disabilities, provide fairness for those on fixed incomes who can’t keep up with rising taxes, and create equity by adjusting the system for those who are most impacted. It is not a handout. To enroll in the program, these qualifications must be met:
  • Must be 61 or older, or 57 or older and be a surviving spouse or domestic partner of someone already in the program.   OR
  • Be disabled causing an inability to work or be a 100% service-connected disabled veteran.
  • Own and occupy your own home, living there at least 6 months and one day a year.
  • Household income must be within program limits, which at this time is $48,000 per year. It is calculated on 70% of the median income in Skagit County. It is recalculated every 3 years and may go up to $65,000 at the beginning of 2027.
  • There is an online portal to apply, or a person can go to the assessor’s office to apply
  • The online portal is in English and in Spanish, and one of the Senior Exemption Specialists is bilingual
Danny Hagan is asking us to share this info with people we know who may qualify so they can age in place without the fear of being taxed out of their homes.
New Member
Roy Anderson is officially a  new La Conner Rotarian!
 
Calendar
  • Friday, January 9 at 10:30am: Nonprofit meeting at La Conner Swinomish Library
  • Tuesday, January 13th 10am-12pm Helping Hands Volunteering: If you haven’t signed up and want to participate, let Marty know.
 
 
 
           
 
           
 
Read more...
Contact Us!
Mailing Address
PO Box 2111
La Conner, WA 98257
 
Email Address
click on the link to send us an email
Speakers
Shawn Howard, Executive Director, Recovery Cafe
Jun 08, 2026
Recovery Cafe, Shawn Howard, Executive Director All Member Hybrid Meeting
Club update/board meeting
Jun 15, 2026
Club update/board meeting - All Member Hybrid
Skagit Symphony - Carrie Omdal & Michael Wheatley
Jun 22, 2026
Skagit Symphony - Carrie Omdal, ED & Michael Wheatley, Musical Director Performing All member hybrid
Scott Thomas, Town of La Conner Administrator
Jun 29, 2026
Scott Thomas, Town of La Conner Administrator - All things La Conner - All members hybrid
Club Officer Installation
Jul 06, 2026
Club Officer Installation All Member Meeting
District Governor Kathleen Olson
Jul 13, 2026
District 5050 Governor - All Member Hybrid Meeting - Board Meeting Follows
Erica Chang, HearMeWA - VIA ZOOM
Jul 20, 2026
Hear Me WA - Free statewide program for tips related to risks to safety of youth - All Member Hybrid
Chris Baldwin and Steven Dills - Sheriff's Office
Jul 27, 2026
Skagit County Sheriff's Office - All Member Hybrid Meeting
Club Picnic - Big Lake
Aug 03, 2026
Annual Picnic Social in Person Meeting
Club Update - Board Meeting
Aug 10, 2026
All Member Hybrid Meeting
TBD
Aug 17, 2026
All Member Hybrid Meeting
Auction Countdown Meeting with Club
Aug 24, 2026
Auction Countdown - All Member Hybrid Meeting
YES Student Presentation
Aug 31, 2026
YES Student Presentation - All Member Hybrid Meeting
No Meeting - Labor Day
Sep 07, 2026
No Meeting - Labor Day
Club Update - Board Meeting
Sep 14, 2026
All Member Hybrid Meeting
TBD
Sep 21, 2026
All Member Hybrid Meeting
TBD
Sep 28, 2026
All Member Hybrid Meeting
TBD
Oct 05, 2026
All Member Hybrid Meeting
Club Update - Board Meeting
Oct 12, 2026
All Member Hybrid Meeting
TBD
Oct 19, 2026
All Member Hybrid Meeting
TBD
Oct 26, 2026
All Member Hybrid Meeting
TBD
Nov 02, 2026
All Member Hybrid Meeting
Club Update - Board Meeting
Nov 09, 2026
All Member Hybrid Meeting
TBD
Nov 16, 2026
All Member Hybrid Meeting
TBD
Nov 23, 2026
All Member Hybrid Meeting
TBD - 5th Monday
Nov 30, 2026
All Member Meeting
View entire list...
Upcoming Events
Club Executives & Directors
President
Martha Pease
President Elect
Lori Buher
Membership
Christi King
Vice President
John Milnor
Past President
Audrey Gravley
Secretary
Connie Milliken
Treasurer
Don Wolf
Community Services
Patsy Good
International Projects
Danielle Mullen
Vocational Services
Doug Moore
Youth Services
Adam McGarity
Foundation
Dennis Milliken
Public Relations
Keith Stobie
Rotary Links
 
Local Links