Club Meeting: Free Bikes 4 Kidz
2024-04-18 11:45 - 13:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
Rotarian Joe Kurmaskie, who has dedicated extensive efforts to Free Bikes 4 Kidz, a non-profit organization transforming lives one bike at a time. Joe’s journey involves collecting, cleaning, and refurbishing gently used bikes, in collaboration with SMART and the City of Wilsonville, to ensure every child experiences the joy and freedom of owning a bike. Through summer camps, holiday bike giveaways, and the tireless work of volunteers, Free Bikes 4 Kidz aims to steer kids towards a happier, healthier childhood.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.

Club Meeting: Our Partners from La Plata, Colombia
2024-04-25 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
Experience an engaging presentation by visiting Rotarians from La Plata, Colombia! On one special day during their visit in April, four distinguished members from the Rotary Club of La Plata will share insights about their beautiful city and impactful community service projects. This event is a key part of our cherished 12-year partnership, offering a unique opportunity to engage in rich cultural exchange and learn about the dynamic efforts of our fellow Rotarians in Colombia.
While here, our guests will explore various cities in our region, including Newberg, Wilsonville, Sherwood, French Prairie, and Portland, with each day featuring dinners hosted by local Rotarians. The main presentation, facilitated by Rotarian Jaimy Beltran who will provide translation services, promises to be an enlightening experience.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.

Club Meeting: Coffee Creek Puppy Program
2024-05-02 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
Heather Ohmart, a Contract Trainer with Canine Companions, will share the inspiring story of the Coffee Creek Puppy Program. This program at the Coffee Creek Correctional Facility pairs inmates with puppies destined to become service dogs for individuals with disabilities. Having successfully raised 110 puppies, the program highlights the transformative power of companionship and service, with each dog undergoing 14 months of training by women who are incarcerated. These puppies are not just helping people from the beginning but changing lives from inside the walls of Coffee Creek to the wider world.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.
Official bio:
Heather Ohmart has been the trainer for the puppy program at Coffee Creek Correctional Facility since 2007. She raises future service dogs for Canine Companions, a national non-profit organization that provides highly trained service dogs to people with disabilities at no cost to the recipients. Heather has been volunteering and working with Canine Companions since 2002, initially raising puppies to become service dogs and later teaching classes for puppy raisers in the Portland area. Her involvement in aiding individuals with disabilities began in middle school and has been a consistent part of her volunteer efforts. Working with Canine Companions merges her passion for helping people and working with animals, enhancing her commitment to fostering independence in others.

Club Meeting: The Journey of a 2012 Rotary Scholarship Recipient
2024-05-09 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
Jeff Lulay, Brand Marketer at Nike, will talk about his experience growing up in the Wilsonville community and the transformational impact it played on his development through college and into his professional career. Jeff is a past receipt of the Rotary Scholarship – graduating from Wilsonville High School in 2012. Throughout his journey, he has developed lifelong friends, unforgettable memories, and deep love for the Wilsonville community.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.
Official bio: Jeff works for Nike as a Brand Marketer – leading product launches, athlete marketing plans, and brand strategy for sport moments and grassroots events. He attributes his early career success to the experiences and lessons he learned during his time in Wilsonville and at Oregon State University, allowing him to launch his career at Nike.
Growing up, Jeff participated in a variety of Wildcat sport teams. His Wilsonville journey unfolded through the lens of sports and community service – from early days in youth baseball, to earning First Team All-State honors on the high school football team. Beyond the playing field, Jeff was an annual participant and volunteer at Relay For Life and WERK Day events.
Jeff currently serves as an assistant coach on the Wilsonville High School Basketball team, continuing to invest in the community, like many other coaches and volunteers did so for him.

Club Assembly: Visioning
2024-05-16 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
A Club Assembly is a special type of club meeting where Rotarians receive training and updates so they can help fulfill the service mission of Rotary. Mike Bishop and Pat Wolfram will discuss Visioning. The public is invited to come and learn more about the various programs, projects and goals of the Rotary Club of Wilsonville.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.

Club Meeting: Sharing the Podcast Journey to Joy
2024-05-23 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
Rotarian Dr. Laura LaJoie, the host of “The Dr. Joy Show” podcast, reaches an international audience with its message of happiness and fulfillment. Through open conversations with guests about their journeys to joy, she uncovers the diverse paths people take to find happiness. Learn how she navigates the varied landscapes of happiness, bringing stories and lessons that resonate with listeners worldwide.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.

Club Assembly: Exchange Student Update
2024-05-30 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
Rotarian Lauretta MacColman will lead a presentation featuring our Rotary exchange students, Tebbe Jensen and Elsa Chen, as they near the completion of their exchange program. Tebbe and Elsa will share their personal experiences, highlighting the adventures and insights gained throughout their journey. This is a unique opportunity to hear directly from the students about the impact of their exchange.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.

Club Meeting: Help Save a Life
2024-06-06 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
Mike Rusher, a dedicated firefighter and longtime Wilsonville resident, will present “Help Save a Life.” This important session will focus on how to administer Narcan, also known as naloxone, a medication used to counteract the effects of opioid overdose. Naloxone can quickly restore normal respiration in emergency situations, making it a vital tool in lifesaving efforts.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.
Official bio:
Mike Rusher’s grandparents settled in Wilsonville in the 1930s and were farmers. His parents, Gary and Vera Rusher, met in college and initially pursued careers in teaching. Gary later transitioned from teaching to firefighting, retiring after 35 years of service. Throughout his life, Mike has always been involved in farming and ranching. The Rusher family ranch, Rusher’s 4R Ranch, is a fourth-generation operation raising cattle and crops. Following in his father’s footsteps, Mike began his firefighting career 35 years ago and has been a paramedic for 26 years. He is currently a Shift Commander at Polk County Fire.

Club Meeting: Empowering Students with Dyslexia
2024-06-13 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
Leslie Jenson, a dedicated dyslexia advocate and licensed Oregon educator, presents “Empowering Students with Dyslexia,” where she will explore the nature of dyslexia, debunk common myths, and explain how the brain learns to read. This presentation aims to increase understanding and support within the community for both students and adults facing challenges in reading and writing.
Representing Forge Education, Leslie emphasizes the importance of individualized instruction in unlocking each student’s potential, especially for those with dyslexia. With her extensive experience and a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction, she will share effective strategies and insights that advocate for educational approaches tailored to foster success and confidence in reading skills among students.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.
Official bio:
Leslie is a licensed educator with over 15 years of classroom teaching experience and 4 years as a dyslexia instructor prior to joining Forge Education. She has a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction, an endorsement in Early Childhood Education, along with a strong background in recognizing and understanding dyslexia. Leslie’s training includes Orton Gillingham techniques by the Institute of Multi-Sensory Education. Her passion and advocacy for supporting children to “break the alphabetic code” on their road to becoming successful readers and writers is what drives her teaching.

Club Meeting: City of Wilsonville DEI Update
2024-06-20 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
Imran Haider, a member of the City of Wilsonville’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee, will be providing an update on the committee’s progress and strategic planning efforts. Since the committee’s inception on December 14, 2021, significant strides have been made towards realizing a community that embodies inclusivity at its core. Imran will discuss the ongoing development of the strategic plan aimed at identifying and dismantling barriers to participation and inclusion, thereby promoting equitable access and opportunities for all residents and visitors of Wilsonville.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.

No Club Meeting: Installation Dinner
2024-06-27 11:45 - 13:00 | OR
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville will hold its Installation Dinner on June 25 in lieu of a regular Thursday lunch meeting. The outgoing president will recognize the board and discuss the accomplishments of the year, passing the torch to the incoming president who will introduce the new board and outline plans for the next 12 months.
Please join us for this special event. The theme is “Let the Magic of Rotary Begin,” promising an enchanting experience. Doors open at 5:30 PM with Happy Hour drink specials, followed by entertainment from the Al Kader Band at 6:15 PM. Dinner starts at 7:00 PM, featuring a three-course meal with options of prime rib, chicken, or vegetarian. At 7:30 PM, enjoy special entertainment filled with magic and wonder.
Tickets are $41 each. To purchase your tickets, please visit WilsonvilleRotary.com, enter $41 per person, and in the “Add special instructions” section, specify your meal choice(s) of prime rib, chicken, or vegetarian. Alternatively, you may Venmo @wilsonvillerotary and in the “What’s this for?” section, indicate your meal choice(s).
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.

No Club Meeting: Happy 4th of July!
2024-07-04 11:45 - 13:00 | OR
No club meeting. Happy 4th of July!

Club Assembly: Plans for the New Rotary Year 2024-25
2024-07-11 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
President’s Inaugural Meeting, “Plans for the New Rotary Year 2024-25,” by our newly elected President, Mike Bishop. This event will mark the beginning of President Bishop’s term and showcase the plans for our upcoming year.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.

Club Meeting: Looking Back on Five Decades of Rock N’ Roll
2024-07-18 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
Jerry Hofmann, the bandleader of the classic Rock ‘n’ Roll band Johnny Limbo and the Lugnuts, will be sharing tales from his musical journey. Later in the evening, prepare to be entertained as Johnny Limbo and the Lugnuts light up the stage. Jerry’s presentation, as engaging as the performances themselves, promises an unforgettable experience.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.

Club Meeting: Making a Career in Music
2024-07-25 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
Aric Keith, Kelly Gable, and Nicole Carlon, members of the band Rockit Radio, will be sharing their insights and experiences on making a career in music. They will discuss various aspects of the music industry, from performance and production to navigating the business side of things. Later that evening, get ready to dance as Rockit Radio takes the spotlight, delivering their top hits and favorite dance numbers.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.

Club Meeting: Tales from a Soul Survivor
2024-08-01 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
Curtis Salgado, an award-winning vocalist, instrumentalist, and songwriter, celebrated for his impact on the Soul/Blues/R&B genres. Described by NPR as “an icon” with “a huge voice,” Salgado is revered worldwide for his performances, capable of extracting every ounce of soul from his songs. Celebrating over 40 years in music, Salgado returns with “Damage Control,” his first full band album in four years, featuring an exciting lineup of fresh, original material. Later that evening, get ready to be moved as Curtis Salgado takes the stage, delivering powerful hits and soul-stirring numbers from his new album. His talk, rich with anecdotes from his extensive musical journey, promises to be as captivating and profound as his performances.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.

Club Meeting: The Power of Connecting Through Music
2024-08-08 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
Bart Hafeman, the dynamic bandleader of Hit Machine, a high-energy Top 40/variety/dance band, will share his experiences leading this energetic seven-piece ensemble. Celebrated for its vibrant and powerful performances, Hit Machine takes the stage later that evening, delivering their top hits and crowd-favorite dance numbers. Bart’s talk, filled with insights from his journey in the music industry, promises to be as energizing and engaging as the band’s performance.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.

Club Meeting: Mayor Julie Fitzgerald's Wilsonville State of the City
2024-08-15 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
Mayor Julie Fitzgerald will deliver her Wilsonville State of the City presentation, highlighting the achievements, challenges, and developments shaping our community. Julie Fitzgerald, elected as Wilsonville’s ninth mayor in November 2020, serves a term from January 2021 to December 2024. During her tenure, she has been steering the city through various milestones and hurdles, working tirelessly to ensure the growth and prosperity of Wilsonville.
Julie works with community members, City of Wilsonville staff, and elected officials across the region to advance the objectives of Oregon’s 22nd largest city. She serves a population of over 27,000 residents and a diverse industrial employment force of 21,000. Under her leadership, Wilsonville has seen significant developments in infrastructure, public services, and community programs, all aimed at enhancing the quality of life for its citizens
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.
Official bio:
Julie Fitzgerald was elected as Wilsonville’s ninth mayor in November 2020, serving a term from January 2021 to December 2024.
Julie collaborates with community members, City of Wilsonville staff, and elected officials across the region to advance the objectives of Oregon’s 22nd largest city. She serves a population of more than 27,000 and a diverse, industrial employment force of 21,000.
During a previous term on the Wilsonville City Council (2013-16), Julie chaired the SMART Transit Master Plan Task Force, helped launch the Civics Academy, and advanced the Basalt Creek Concept Area plan to increase Wilsonville’s future capacity for family-wage jobs.
Julie discovered her professional calling shortly after graduation, when she first volunteered to lead a community fund-raising drive. Subsequently, she has managed multi-million-dollar budgets and led significant fund-raising efforts in Oregon’s non-profit sector to advance education, health care, and conservation.
Additionally, Julie has served her community in volunteer leadership roles, including past terms as President of the Board of Clackamas Community Repertory Theatre and President of the Oregon & Southwest Washington Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals.
Her upbringing was rooted in agriculture, with parents who were active in community causes. Julie majored in Animal Science at Oregon State University. After graduating, she managed the family’s ranch and a herd of 1,000 sheep. She maintains an active interest in the value of agriculture to Oregon’s quality of life and economy.
Julie enjoys spending time with her family: her husband, Bob, a retired librarian; three sons; two step-daughters; and two grandchildren. Her favorite activities include reading, gardening, community involvement, walking, and live theater.

Club Meeting: Overview of OSU Extension-Clackamas Programs
2024-08-22 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
Leah Sundquist, Manager/County Liaison of the OSU Extension Service in Clackamas County, will provide an overview of the diverse and impactful programs offered by the OSU Extension-Clackamas. The Oregon State University Extension Service is dedicated to improving the lives of Oregonians through research-based knowledge and education. Learn about our key initiatives, including Master Gardener and Urban Horticulture, Forestry and Natural Resources, Family and Community Health, and the 4-H Youth Development program. These programs, supported by state and federal funding along with community partnerships, are crucial to our community, aligning perfectly with the interests of our members and promoting substantial community engagement and development.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.
Official bio:
Leah Sundquist hails from El Paso, Texas originally, with the military bringing her to the Pacific Northwest. She is a 35-year Army Combat veteran and retired as the Chief of Staff, Oregon Army National Guard. She has a teaching background in K-12 Physical Education/ Health, HS Dance and Elementary endorsement. She has been a Field Executive in a Girl Scout Council, taught school, lead and commanded Soldiers to include in combat (Afghanistan), worked in every high-level staff position of the Oregon National Guard, and is now enjoying working to serve the community of Clackamas County as well as being a Rotarian herself.
She is GS Gold award recipient, holds a Bronze star from military service, a Master’s Degree in Curriculum/ Instruction from City University, a Master’s Degree in Strategic planning and Leadership from US Army war College, and is an International Certified Results Coach.

Club Meeting: A Girl, A Holocaust Survivor, and a Friendship That Made History
2024-08-29 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
Claire Sarnowski from Lake Oswego, Oregon, will share her experiences and insights from her book, Remember My Story: A Girl, a Holocaust Survivor, and a Friendship That Made History. Claire, who attended River Grove Elementary, Lakeridge Middle School, and Lakeridge High School, graduating in 2022, will discuss her journey with Holocaust survivor Alter Wiener. In 2018, fourteen-year-old Claire stood with ninety-two-year-old Alter Wiener in front of the Oregon state senate to champion a cause they both believed in: making Holocaust education mandatory in the state’s public-school curriculum. Their friendship began unexpectedly—she was in elementary school when they met, and he was an aging Holocaust survivor whose memoir she had read. Together, they aimed to change the American education system.
Alter spent decades speaking to audiences about the Holocaust, teaching that “never forgetting” could help spread tolerance and prevent such atrocities. Claire recognized that hate crimes were still being committed, even in her own town and school, and she was determined not to let Alter’s efforts be in vain. From strangers to friends to law-changing history makers, Claire and Alter’s mission was always simple: Remember this story.
Claire will share a reading from her memoir, Remember My Story: A Girl, a Holocaust Survivor, and a Friendship That Made History. She will discuss her work as an author and activist, and the work that she has done since the book was published in January 2024. This memoir is a tribute to a man who survived the worst of humanity, an ode to friendship and community, and an empowering call to activism. Claire will bring copies of her book for purchase.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.

Club Meeting: Never Give Up - A Vietnam POW's Story of Survival
2024-09-05 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
Retired Colonel Lynn Guenther, father of Wilsonville High School Head Football Coach Adam Guenther, will share his experiences from his time as a Forward Air Controller (FAC). His role shifted dramatically from engaging enemy targets to enduring a 414-day survival ordeal from December 26, 1971, to February 12, 1973. Through this challenging time, he discovered the indispensable value of faith, family, and friends, offering profound insights into resilience and the human spirit.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.
Official bio:
Lynn Guenther was born on December 30th, 1945, in Glasgow, Montana. In 1958, his family moved to The Dalles, Oregon, where he graduated from The Dalles High School in 1964. From 1964 to 1968, he attended Linfield College and Oregon State University, where he earned a BS Degree in Economics and received an Air Force commission through the OSU Air Force ROTC program. Over the next 26 years, he had 19 assignments and 17 family moves. While most of his assignments centered on flying operations, several were HQ staff positions or educational assignments. On August 1, 1994, he retired as the Base Commander of Fairchild AFB, Spokane, WA. From 1994 to 2003, he served as the City Manager of Hood River, OR, and from 2003 to 2010, he owned Gorge Fly Fishing Expeditions and was a Licensed Commercial Real Estate Broker. Lynn has been married to his high school sweetheart, Susan, for 57 years, and they have 3 sons and daughters-in-law, 9 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren.

Club Meeting: The Performing Arts in Wilsonville
2024-09-12 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
Rotarian David Niklas, President of WilsonvilleSTAGE, will share WilsonvilleSTAGE role in enhancing our local arts landscape. David will delve into how WilsonvilleSTAGE not only offers a stage for creative expression but also strengthens community bonds and fosters a robust support network for the arts. His talk will emphasize the importance and significance of the impact live theatre has on an audience. Drawing from his own experiences in theatre, as well as published studies measuring audience impact, David will make a compelling case for why live theatrical productions should be an integral part of our community.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.
Official bio:
Born in Gladstone and raised in Clackamas and on unincorporated upper Sunnyside Road, David Niklas is a product of the local community, having attended the old Clackamas High School. He pursued higher education at Whitman College, where he earned a BA in Dramatic Arts in 1974. Choosing practicality over passion initially, David joined his family’s horticultural firm, Clackamas Greenhouses, and dedicated 35 years to a successful career as a horticulturalist.
David is happily married to his college sweetheart, Zoe, and together they have one son, Richard, who has blessed them with two grandchildren, Peyton, 14, and Kayleigh, 10. Currently, David serves as the president of WilsonvilleSTAGE, the community theatre company in Wilsonville, where he continues to foster his passion for the dramatic arts.

Club Meeting: Overdose Awareness in Clackamas County
2024-09-19 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
Apryl Herron from Clackamas County Public Health will discuss significant efforts to combat the overdose crisis, highlighting crucial public health strategies and community actions. Apryl, a Senior Program Planner, leads the substance use and overdose prevention initiative, using a data-driven approach to reduce overdose deaths and harms caused by opioids and other drugs. She collaborates with first responders on Project Hope and co-convenes the Clackamas Community Alliance and Overdose Response team.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.
Official bio:
Apryl Herron works as a Sr. Program Planner for the Clackamas County Public Health Division where she currently leads the work of the substance use and overdose prevention initiative for Clackamas County. In this role she uses a data-driven approach to enhance community-based efforts and works closely with community partners to decrease harms and overdose deaths caused by opioids and other drugs. Apryl co-convenes the Clackamas Community Alliance as well as the Clackamas Overdose Response team. Apryl has partnered with local first responders and others to launch Project Hope, which provides support to overdose survivors and those navigating the road to recovery. Apryl earned her Masters in Public Health from Oregon State University and her B.S. in Health Education from Western Oregon University.

Club Meeting: Greening Our Neighborhoods One Tree at a Time
2024-09-26 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
Christine Smith, Neighborhood Trees Specialist and Education Coordinator from Friends of Trees, will present valuable information on the organization’s mission to inspire people to improve their surroundings through a simple solution: planting trees. Friends of Trees organizes planting events, delivers trees, digs the holes, and makes it affordable for all homeowners. Street and yard trees are just $35 each, and if affordability is a barrier, the tree is provided at no cost thanks to their donation-funded tree scholarship fund.
Friends of Trees offers an incredible selection of city-approved trees, sourced from nearly a dozen local wholesale tree farms. Each homeowner receives a 6-foot tall tree, delivery, hole digging, planting assistance from neighborhood volunteers, mulch, stakes, and follow-up maintenance checks and tree care tips. Tree planting volunteers simply sign up, show up dressed for the weather, and get to know their neighbors while greening the neighborhood. The organization plants trees in various Oregon cities, including Portland, Gresham, Milwaukie, Oregon City, Salem, Wilsonville, Eugene, and Springfield, as well as in Vancouver and Clark County, Washington.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.

Club Meeting: Reducing Energy Use and Lowering Utility Bills
2024-10-03 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
Taylor Swan, Outreach Specialist of Energy Trust of Oregon, will present on how to reduce energy use and lower utility bills by making home improvements and employing simple energy tips and tricks. This workshop equips homeowners and renters with the tools and knowledge to take control of their energy use, lower energy costs, and live more comfortably. Additionally, attendees will learn about the resources and funding available for energy-related home repairs and projects. The presentation will provide valuable insights into cost-effective ways to make homes more energy-efficient, ultimately helping save money and contribute to a greener environment.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.
Official bio:
Taylor Swan comes from a background of secondary education and community development. He works for an energy consulting firm as an educator and outreach specialist for Energy Trust of Oregon and is enthusiastic about teaching energy conservation methods.

Club Meeting: Helping Women Survive the Trauma of Cancer, One Friend at a Time
2024-10-10 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
Allison Hancock, Executive Director of Breast Friends in Tigard, will present on “Helping Women Survive the Trauma of Cancer, One Friend at a Time.” Breast Friends is dedicated to ensuring that no one goes through a diagnosis of breast cancer alone. The organization empowers women through every step of their breast cancer journey by providing education, support, and fostering a sense of community.
Founded in 2000 by Becky Olson and Sharon Henifin, both breast cancer survivors, Breast Friends emphasizes their commitment to compassionate support, interactive programs, and fostering a sense of community for women from diagnosis through thriving beyond. The organization strives to be relevant, accessible, and inclusive, providing support and understanding to all individuals regardless of where they are in their journey.
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.
Official bio:
Allison Hancock is the Executive Director of Breast Friends and a 19-year breast cancer survivor. Though she felt she had a great support system, the one thing that was missing was being able to talk with other women who had navigated the cancer journey. She moved to Oregon in 2012, and was so excited to have found Breast Friends and hear about the amazing support that they were giving women who had been diagnosed with breast cancer. Allison began volunteering at Breast Friends and is now Executive Director. She counts it a joy and honor in carrying out the legacy that has been built. She has been married for 30 years to Mark, and they have two boys: Josh, who graduated in June 2023 from Oregon State, and Jeremy, who graduated in June from Oregon State. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with family, walking on the beach and crafting.

Club Meeting: History of Butteville and the Butteville Store
2024-10-17 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
Ben Williams, a resident of French Prairie and President of Friends of Historic Butteville, will be presenting the captivating history of Butteville and the Historic Butteville Store. As the longest continuously operating retail establishment in Oregon, the Butteville Store is a significant landmark in the state’s history.
In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Butteville was a major community in French Prairie and Marion County, thriving as a port town known as the “Hops capital of Oregon.” The town featured a bustling community with two churches, a school, a Masonic Temple, an Oddfellow’s Hall, a post office, and two grain elevators. Sternwheelers transported agricultural goods up and down the Willamette River, cementing Butteville’s economic importance.
However, the arrival of the railroad around 1907 diminished the need for river transport, leading to the town’s decline. While Butteville struggled with these changes, nearby Wilsonville greatly benefitted from the new transportation routes. Ben Williams will explore how these shifts impacted both towns, providing a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past and the ongoing efforts to preserve Butteville’s heritage. His organization is dedicated to preserving the history of Butteville, operating the historic store, and restoring the Butteville Landing.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.
Official bio:
Ben Williams lives in French Prairie, in the community of Butteville. He was born and raised overseas, moving back to the US for college. He graduated from College of Southern Utah and holds an MA from Fuller Theological Seminary. He spent his career in various sales leadership positions in the medical device industry. Ben has been involved in leadership development programs in both the corporate and nonprofit space. He was part of founding Friends of French Prairie a local land use advocacy organization, and serves on the board of Friends of Historic Butteville and most recently on the board of 1000 Friends of Oregon.

Club Meeting: Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, & Accessibility (IDEA) within Rotary
2024-10-24 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
Chase Morinaka, Rotary IDEA Task Force Co-Chair, will be presenting on Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, & Accessibility (IDEA) within Rotary. His presentation will explore the core principles that guide Rotary’s commitment to IDEA, emphasizing the importance of valuing diversity and celebrating contributions from people of all backgrounds. This includes diverse perspectives across age, ethnicity, race, color, disability, learning style, religion, faith, socioeconomic status, culture, marital status, languages spoken, sex, sexual orientation, and gender identity.
Chase will also discuss the need to recognize and address barriers that have historically limited membership, participation, and leadership opportunities for certain groups. He will highlight Rotary’s commitment to advancing equity, ensuring that everyone has access to the necessary resources, opportunities, networks, and support to thrive. Additionally, the presentation will focus on appreciating individuality and fostering an inclusive culture where everyone feels valued and a sense of belonging. Lastly, Chase will emphasize the importance of transparency in Rotary’s DEI journey, committing to honesty and openness about progress and the continuous efforts to improve.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.
Official bio:
A rotary member since 2014, Chase Morinaka is a current chair of the District’s Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility Committee and has served and is committed to growing rotary in our district. He has served as the Board Chair for the Oregon Minority Lawyers Association, as President of the Asian Pacific American Chamber of Commerce, a Committee Chair for the Portland Golf Advisory Committee, and as Vice President of the United States Judo Federation.

Club Assembly: Club Committees and Their Yearly Goals
2024-10-31 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
A Club Assembly is a special type of meeting where Rotarians gather to receive important training, updates, and information to help them support and advance the service mission of Rotary. During this assembly, club members collaborate to review progress and ensure that all goals align with Rotary’s core values of service, fellowship, and community engagement.
At this Club Assembly, President Mike Bishop will lead a discussion on the roles of Club Committees and their goals for the current Rotary year, which runs from July 1 to June 30. This is a valuable opportunity for both members and the public to understand how Rotary operates, what programs and projects are underway, and how these efforts aim to make a positive impact locally and globally.
The public is invited to attend, learn more about the Rotary Club of Wilsonville, and discover ways to get involved in making a difference in the community.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.

Club Meeting: The Innovative TotaChair
2024-11-07 11:45 - 13:00 | Black Bear Diner, 30175 S.W. Parkway Ave., Wilsonville, OR, 97070, United States
Dan Burns and Rob Molzahn, committee chairs, will present on the TotaChair, a project of the Rotary Club of Newberg Early Birds. The TotaChair is a lightweight, “tote-able” multi-use chair designed and developed by Ken Austin, co-founder of A-dec. Fabricated and assembled by Rotarians who volunteer their time and skills, the TotaChair is made available for mission outreach projects and local uses where portability is essential.
This compact and transportable chair is ideal for temporary settings in remote regions or local settings requiring mobility. Its convenience and simplicity make it versatile for various service projects, enhancing the ability to provide essential services in diverse environments. Dan and Rob will showcase the design, development, and practical applications of this innovative portable equipment, highlighting its significance in mission settings and remote areas worldwide.
The Rotary Club of Wilsonville meets weekly Thursdays at noon to carry out its purpose of providing service and fellowship to members and the Wilsonville community. Guests are welcome. Lunch is available off the menu; please arrive and order by 11:45 a.m. if you are ordering lunch. For more information, email president@wilsonvillerotary.com.
