Our club will be handling the water tables and marshal roles for the 8K trail run portion of the Lost Dutchman Marathon on Sunday, February 20th. This is an important event for the community. Since its inception in 2002, the marathon has donated over $778,000 to various local organizations that serve economically disadvantaged youth. Not only do we provide a great service, but we also get funds from this event to use for our own projects. If you haven't already signed up, you can do so by contacting Terralle Moore at amazingsmoores@gmail.com.
Lost Dutchman Days Rodeo
We will once again be managing the beer stations at the Lost Dutchman Days Rodeo on February 24-26. This endeavor takes a lot of volunteer hours, but also brings valuable funds into the club for our worthy causes. If you have questions or would like to sign up to help, contact Ron Knies at ronknies@gmail.com or Jacquie Smith at ajjacquies@gmail.com.
'Reverend Chef' Jason Taylor, Executive Director of 'Other Side Ministries' shared his journey going from homelessness to heading up a non-profit that focuses on serving quality meals for homeless - and providing an educational experience that provides training and ultimately jobs.
Jason experienced homelessness, but was able to get back on his feet with the help of a good Samaritan. His experiences include a degree from the Scottsdale Culinary Institute, as well as time spent as an executive chef in Scottsdale and also ordination as a minister.
'Other Side Ministries' was started as an idea, with a Facebook event serving the homeless - and right away Jason knew he had found his purpose.
'Other Side Ministries' has provided more than 18,000 meals to the local community.
'A New Beginning' is an 8 week course designed to help provide a start in the food industry. Students might have addiction issues, but they sign a contract to 'stay clean', do homework and show up for classes. Resume writing, mock interviews, job training -- along with a student run catering company has provided placement and income to many.
'Other Side Ministries' partners with 'Genesis Project' - a local non-profit serving the homeless for more than a decade.
Our speaker was Dr. Glen N. Robison, DPM, PLC., a physician and surgeon who specializes in natural foot cures. Dr. Robison is Board-certified in primary care as well as podiatric medicine.
Dr. Robison is a Jin Shin Jyutsu practitioner and certified myopractor, trained in releasing the deep muscle tensions that lie at the root of our symptoms and ailments. His goal is to provide in-office treatment using highly effective conservative and non-invasive methods before discussing surgical intervention.
Dr Robison has written a best-selling book - 'Healthy Dad, Sick Dad' - which covers a wide range of information about how to help keep healthy.
Officer Carl Halperin from the Apache Junction Police Department spoke about 'DARE - Young Drug Prevention' program. 'DARE' is a drug abuse prevention education program designed to help equip elementary, middle and high school children with knowledge about drug abuse, consequences of abuse, plus skills for resisting peer pressure to experiment with drugs, alcohol and tobacco. Officer Halperin shared many stories about drug dangers facing our youth today from fentanyl, and other 'street drugs'.
The club formally welcomed Cathy and John Bishop as our newest members.
January 4
Our speaker was Rotarian Richard Ward from Estes Valley Sunrise Club-Estes Park Club. His speech was titled 'Secrets from 16 International Rotary Conventions'. He spoke about the many ways he has been involved with Rotary over the years, including the Rotary Exchange program and the RV Fellowship. He stressed the importance of Club members being involved in their club. Richard shared entertaining stories about many experiences he has had while attending 16 previous International Rotary Conventions - and shared intentions to attend the upcoming 2023 international Rotary Convention to be held in Melbourne, Australia May 27-31 2023.