A Historic Night for the Rotary Club of Folsom!
At our September 4th meeting, we celebrated an exciting announcement — Ryan Jantzen has been named District 5180’s District Governor Designate for the 2028–2029 Rotary year.
This marks a milestone for our club: Ryan will be the first District Governor from the Rotary Club of Folsom in our 72-year history. Even more meaningful, his term will coincide with our club’s 75th anniversary year.
Ryan’s Rotary journey spans 31 years, all within our own club. Over those decades, he has taken on many leadership roles, including Club President (2022–2023), board member, and his current role as Assistant Governor for Area 5. He has also served as Rotary Youth Exchange Coordinator, District Blood Donation Chair, PRLS graduate and facilitator, and as District Conference Chair for 2026. Beyond titles, Ryan has mentored new members, encouraged future leaders, and inspired others with his collaborative and steady guidance. He is widely respected across the district and our community, embodying Rotary values of service, compassion, and humility.
We are beyond proud of him and confident that he will carry the same heart, vision and unwavering commitment to service into his role as District Governor — shaping the future of District 5180 and leaving a lasting impact on all who serve alongside him.
Our club meeting was filled with numerous guests — Rotary leaders past and present who came to celebrate this announcement. Several Past District Governors, along with the future district leadership line, many current as well as former club presidents and spouses were in attendance. The support in the room was a true reflection of the significance of this moment for our club.
We also welcomed a guest speaker our club always enjoys hearing from: former Sacramento County Sheriff John McGinnis. Sheriff McGinnis dedicated more than 30 years to law enforcement, serving as deputy sheriff, detective, and ultimately as the 36th Sheriff of Sacramento County. Since retiring, he has stayed connected with the community as a radio host and commentator, continuing to share his perspective on public safety and leadership. His insight and humor always make him a welcome voice at our meetings.
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The evening began with President Scott Bailey leading the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by an invocation from Bob Mange. With so many guests in attendance, Secretary Jim Padgett kept busy introducing dignitaries and visitors, and he carried it off with ease. Fine Master Jim Ortega kept things light as always with his signature fines — proving once again that Rotary humor is alive and well.
- A club photo in honor of Paul Bonaventure buying the bar -
In true Rotary fashion, we celebrated personal milestones too. Paul Bonaventure generously bought the bar in honor of his daughter Michelle’s promotion to Manager of Partnership Development for the University of Texas at Austin. In this new role, she will oversee the high school dual enrollment programs across Austin, San Antonio, South Texas, and Houston. Congratulations to Michelle on this exciting achievement — and thank you Paul for sharing the joy with us all.
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Club News and Events:
Oktoberfest – October 26, 2025
Folsom Community Center | 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Oktoberfest is just around the corner, and we need sponsors. This is one of our club’s biggest fundraisers, so please dig into your networks and help us find businesses to partner with. If you have a business, consider sponsoring to both promote your work and support a worthy cause.
• Sponsorship info: >>folsomrotaryoktoberfest.com
• Tickets: >>Buy here
Mark your calendars, invite your friends, and let’s make this another successful event!
Public Safety Awards Luncheon – September 18, 2025
Folsom Community Center | 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
This annual event honors members of the Folsom Police and Fire Departments for their outstanding service. A tri-tip lunch with all the fixings will be prepared by Chef Paul Bonaventure. Please note: this luncheon takes the place of our regular evening meeting.
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District News and Events:
2025 District 5180 Rotary Foundation Dinner
November 8, 2025 | Citrus Heights Community Center
VIP Reception 5:30 p.m. | Doors Open 6:00 p.m.
The district will recognize clubs and their members for their incredible fundraising over the past year, which has enabled meaningful “Service Above Self” projects that create lasting impact.
Registration deadline: November 4 >> Register here
Other Rotary Club Events:
California Brewers Festival – September 13, 2025
Hosted by Point West Rotary at Discovery Park, Sacramento. Featuring breweries, food trucks, a Beer Mile Relay, a wine tent, music, and more.
Tickets and information: >> calbrewfest.com
The Sun Kings Beatles Tribute Concert – September 20, 2025
Hosted by the Rotary Club of Historic Folsom at Zittel Family Amphitheater. Doors open at 6:00 p.m., show starts at 7:00 p.m. Tickets $35 advance / $40 at the door. Bring your beach chair and 60’s–70’s attire.
Tickets: >>Buy here
Sacramento Century Challenge – October 4, 2025
Presented by the Rotary Club of Sacramento, the Sacramento Century Challenge is the region’s premier cycling event, drawing more than 1,150 riders annually. Now in its 12th year, the Challenge will benefit the Sacramento Children’s Home Crisis Nursery program, which protects children from abuse and neglect.
The ride begins on Capitol Mall in downtown Sacramento and travels through the scenic Delta wine region to Isleton before returning to the Capitol. Cyclists can choose from four routes: 100 miles, 63 miles, 36 miles, or 16 miles. After the ride, participants can enjoy a Post-Ride Festival featuring live music, delicious food, and local beer and wine vendors.
>>Register here
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This week’s club speaker: Ian Choudri, CEO of the California High-Speed Rail Authority.
As Chief Executive Officer, Choudri is responsible for overseeing the planning, development, and delivery of California’s high-speed rail program. With extensive experience in transportation infrastructure projects, Ian brings valuable insight into the challenges and opportunities of building transportation projects in California. Be sure to join us on September 11, 2025 for an informative and engaging presentation.
Rotary Reflection:
Leadership in Rotary does not rest in titles or recognition. It lives in the willingness to serve, to guide, and to step forward with purpose. Every Rotarian has the opportunity to lead — whether through a project, a conversation, or a simple act of service. When we embrace those opportunities, we not only strengthen our club, but we help shape the future of our community.
