President Scott led the Pledge of Allegiance, Bob Mange delivered the invocation, Secretary Jim Padgett introduced our guests, and Fine Master Justin Raithel kept us all on our toes with a lively round of fines.
President-Elect John Baciocco shared highlights from his recent experience at the President Elect Learning Seminar (PELS). During the weekend, John connected with Rotarians from across the region and had the opportunity to meet incoming Rotary International President Olinka “Yinka” Hakeem Babalola. He returned energized and inspired, bringing back fresh ideas and a strong vision for the 2026–2027 Rotary year.
We welcomed guest speaker Steve Davies, a Sacramento native with over 35 years of experience in the local real estate industry and a longtime leader with RE/MAX Gold. A friend of President Scott, Steve delivered an engaging presentation sharing stories and breathtaking photography from his expedition to Antarctica. His stunning images and personal reflections gave us a glimpse into one of the most remote and awe-inspiring places on Earth, leaving members inspired and in awe.
Ryan Jantzen, our Rotary Youth Exchange (RYE) Coordinator, is seeking three host families for our inbound exchange student for the 2026–2027 school year (August through June). Each family would host for approximately three months. The student will attend Folsom High School and will need transportation to and from school. If you or someone you know is interested in this rewarding opportunity, please reach out to Ryan Jantzen: ryanjantzenrotary5180@gmail.com
Chuck Thompson shared an exciting update on our club’s barrel-strength whiskey, coming in at an impressive 138 proof. Each bottle will feature a gold metallic Rotary wheel, along with custom labels reading “Rotary Club of Folsom” and “Crafted in Fellowship, Bottled for Service.” Interest is already strong, with 60 of the 180 bottles spoken for—so don’t wait! A labeling party at the Thompson home will be announced soon for members to help prepare the bottles for distribution.
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Upcoming Events
District 5180 Conference
Caesar’s Republic, South Lake Tahoe
May 1 - 3, 3026
Registration Fee: $375
Join Rotarians from across the district for a weekend of connection, inspiration, and celebration. Highlights include comedian Kay Frances, Poker Run, Plunge for Polio, Rotary Speech Contest, Dueling Pianos, Awards Night, guest speaker Nathan Gutierrez, and more.
A special Friday Night Reception is available for $75 per person.
Register here:
https://tinyurl.com/D5180Conference
Hotel booking deadline: April 10, 2026
https://book.passkey.com/event/51058586/owner/14208/home
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District Assembly
8:00 AM – 3:30 PM
This premier leadership training event prepares incoming club leaders for a successful Rotary year. Participants will gain practical tools, explore strategies for impact, and connect with fellow Rotarians across District 5180. District Assembly is where vision becomes action.
Click this link to register>> District Leadership Assembly 2026 | District 5180
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Castle Park Community Build – Volunteers Needed
April 7–12, 2026
The City of Folsom invites volunteers to help build the next chapter of Castle Park. No construction experience is necessary—there are opportunities for everyone, from building to logistics and hospitality.
Ages 10+ welcome (ages 10–13 must be accompanied by an adult).
Learn more and sign up:
https://folsomparksrec.wufoo.com/forms/qzo02c80tg0lik/
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“Taste of Italy” Fundraiser – Rotary Club of Granite Bay
May 9, 2026 | 5:30 PM
Folsom Community Center
52 Natomas Street, Folsom, CA
Enjoy an authentic Italian feast while supporting a great cause!
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Upcoming Speaker:
This Thursday we welcome Licia Green, who has served as Director of Development for the CCHAT Center for 17 years and is an active member of the Rotary Club of Orangevale. Inspired by her personal journey as a parent of two children with profound hearing loss, Licia has dedicated her career to helping children who are deaf and hard of hearing learn to listen and speak. She is also a board member of the Planned Giving Forum of Greater Sacramento, where she collaborates with professionals to advance legacy giving and long-term impact for nonprofits.
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Rotary Reflection
When we show up and stay connected, we create opportunities to serve in meaningful ways. Each of us brings something different, and together, those efforts add up to something bigger. When we each give what we can, it creates a ripple effect far beyond what we could do alone. Together, we make a difference, and we’re always #BetterTogether