The Case of the Missing Bell
Breaking news: the Rotary bell has been recovered! Rumor has it that the Hoffman brothers were prime suspects in its abduction. But just as suddenly as it vanished, it mysteriously reappeared when Scott Moore walked into the meeting. Coincidence? You decide.
Guest Speaker: Castle Park Renovation
Bull Hutto introduced Joanne Brausch, who shared exciting plans to renovate Folsom’s beloved Kids Play Park (Castle Park), including preserving features like the tile wall, sundial, and pedestal. Joanne also explained why fundraising is needed to cover the costs of building and improving the park for a new generation. Hannah Perez, Park Planner for the City of Folsom, provided updates on the park’s condition and renovation timeline, highlighting the need for updates due to the age and wear of structures, safety and ADA requirements, and the opportunity to sustain the park while reinvigorating community pride. Kelly Gonzalez, Folsom Parks & Recreation Director, thanked Rotary for its ongoing support.
Community Service Project
Henry Sundermier shared details about our next project: This Saturday, August 23 at 8 AM, we’ll be painting the fence our club built for Twin Lakes Food Bank. Roll up your sleeves and join in—contact Henry if you can help.
Rotary Recognition
Big news—our club was voted Best Club/Organization in the Folsom Times! What an honor and a reminder of how much Rotary means to our community. We don’t do it for recognition, but moments like this remind us that service above self truly makes an impact.
Oktoberfest Update
John Baciocco gave us the latest on Oktoberfest. The QR code is up and running for tickets, but we need more sponsors to make this event a success. Please consider stepping up to sponsor—or connect us with someone who can. Contact John for details and opportunities.
District News:
District 5180 Leadership Training – PRLS
Rotarians are invited to take part in Practical Relevant Leadership Skills (PRLS), a 4-session interactive training on leadership, communication, facilitation, and project planning. October 11–12, 2025 at Sierra College, Rocklin. Cost is $150, with our club subsidizing $75. (To be reimbursed) For more information, contact Assistant Governor Ryan Jantzen.
Community Events:
Farewell to the Castle Party
Before construction begins, the community is invited to give Castle Park the farewell it deserves at the “Farewell to the Castle Party” on Friday, August 22, from 6–8 PM at 201 Prewett Dr, Folsom. Enjoy live music, face painting, classic games, and family photos with the iconic castle. This free, family-friendly event is a chance to celebrate the playground that has brought joy to countless families and say goodbye before renovations begin.
Hands4Hope Endless Summer Beach Party
Saturday, September 13 | 5–9 PM | Serrano Village Green Amphitheater, El Dorado Hills
Enjoy live music, food, drinks, raffles, and auctions while supporting Hands4Hope, a nonprofit that empowers youth through leadership and community service. Details and tickets: hands4hopeyouth.org/endlesssummer.
This Week’s Speaker - August 21, 2025
Our guest speaker will be Nacho Damian, who immigrated from Mexico and built a career as lead automotive painter at Bertolucci’s Body and Fender Shop. Nacho even painted our Rotary trailer! Come hear his inspiring story of perseverance, opportunity, and the American Dream.
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Rotary reminds us that the true measure of leadership isn’t found in titles or awards—it’s found in the lives we touch, the communities we strengthen, and the hope we spark in others. Together, we are building something lasting: not just projects, but legacies.
