Today's Program>>

Rotary & Red Cross – Tina Sweeten

Upcoming Programs and Events>>


July 21 - How the Ag Program at Southwest Middle is Making a Difference – Katrina Lynn

July 25 – SW Elementary Front Office Makeover and lunch at Fat Jack’s

July 28 - Echoes from the Ashes: A Voice Remains – Craig Collins
 

Tomorrow's Program>>

President Matt Brown!

Upcoming Programs and Events>>


July 14 – Rotary & Red Cross – Tina Sweeten

July 21 - How the Ag Program at Southwest Middle is Making a Difference – Katrina Lynn

July 25 – SW Elementary Front Office Makeover and lunch at Fat Jack’s

July 28 - Echoes from the Ashes: A Voice Remains – Craig Collins

 

Today's Program>>

 “President Becker’s Farewell” – President Larry Becker A man who needs no introduction.

President Larry gives us his report on the Rotary Year and the club’s achievements and challenges.  Under his leadership The Lakeland Rotary Club has truly lived up to this year’s Rotary International’s mantra “Unite for Good”.  Larry has led the club with easy grace and solid professionalism.  Larry has kept the meetings on schedule and focused, while making our guests feel welcome.  The single blemish on his many accomplishments is his penchant for telling very bad jokes.

Join us in giving Larry a memorable send- off and enthusiastic appreciation for a Job Well-Done!  

Upcoming Programs and Events>>

July 7 – President Matt Brown – 1st meeting of the new Rotary year – theme = “Create Lasting Impact”


July 14 – Rotary & Red Cross – Tina Sweeten

June 16 PROGRAM RECAP :





Linda Wiggs introduced the program.










Bees and Beekeeping – Robbie Bell

Robbie explained his more than 40 years of experience with apiculture and farming.  He produces natural orange blossom honey and provides nationwide crop pollination services. 

Today's Program>>

June 23 – Junior Achievement and the JA Discovery Center with Melody Rider, ConnectED Polk and Shauna Dykes, JA Market President – PLEASE NOTE –THIS MEETING WILL BE HELD AT FIRST PRESBYTARIAN CHURCH, LAKE HOLLINGSWORTH DRIVE.



Upcoming Programs and Events>>

June 27 –  District 6890 Installation in Auburndale – REGISTER NOW!

June 30 – President Larry Becker Farewell

July 7 – President Matt Brown – 1st meeting of the new Rotary year – theme = “Create Lasting Impact”

July 14 – Rotary & Red Cross – Tina Sweeten

June 9 PROGRAM RECAP :

New Member Profiles!
Katie Decker, Mason Elmore, Joey Bunker




June 16 – Bees and Beekeeping – Robbie Bell

Robbie Bell is a second generation commercial beekeeper with more than 40 years of experience in apiculture and farming. He produces natural orange blossom honey and provides nationwide crop pollination services.

Upcoming Programs and Events>>


June 23 – Junior Achievement and the JA Discovery Center with Melody Rider, ConnectED Polk and Shauna Dykes, JA Market President – PLEASE NOTE –THIS MEETING WILL BE HELD AT FIRST PRESBYTARIAN CHURCH, LAKE HOLLINGSWORTH DRIVE.

June 27 –  District 6890 Installation in Auburndale – REGISTER NOW!

June 30 – President Larry Becker Farewell

July 7 – President Matt Brown – 1st meeting of the new Rotary year – theme = “Create Lasting Impact”

July 14 – Rotary & Red Cross – Tina Sweeten

PROGRAM RECAP : Law Enforcement, Public Safety, and Cameras – LPD Asst Chief Hans Lehman





Past President Brock Self introduced fellow Rotarian Asst. Chief Hans Lehman





Program Fun Facts:
60,000 red light camera violations in 2024. A red light violation is $158 citation.

School zone cameras are in warning mode right now. The cameras will be live in the fall. School zone violation is a $100 citation.

Lakeland's 911 communication center was recently remodeled. The center receives 200,000+ calls for service per year.  There are 7 to 8 dispatchers per shift. 
Body cameras have 50+ languages translated automatically. The first 120 seconds of a call are the most important. LPD will use drones as first responders.

Tomorrow >> May 26 – Detention String Project – Dr. Bethany Thompson

June 9 – Member Profiles – Joey Bunker, Katie Decker, Mason Elmore
June 16 – Bees and Beekeeping – Robbie Bell


June 23 – President Larry Becker Farewell
June 27 –  District 6890 Installation in Auburndale – SAVE THE DATE!
July 7 – President Matt Brown – 1st meeting of the new Rotary year – theme = “Create Lasting Impact”

May 26 PROGRAM RECAP :

Detention String Project – Dr. Bethany Thompson
Dr. Bethany Thompson is a cellist, educator and researcher who specializes in violin and cello programs with youth in the juvenile justice system.



The gal was so impressive! These at-risk kids learn to play the cello or violin (no easy task!) with one hour a week for .... 6 or 8 weeks? (I can't remember... again, I lost my notes). It is a short amount of time and then they perform for the public.  They often play at Carpenters Home in Lakeland. However, the program is not in Polk County. She travels to Tampa!  We should really have this program here.  These at-risk kids accomplish something they never thought they could and have such a sense of pride. 

The next performance is at Carpenters Home on July 18 at 2pm, and we are all invited.
 

June 9 – Member Profiles – Joey Bunker, Katie Decker, Mason Elmore



June 16 – Bees and Beekeeping – Robbie Bell


June 23 – President Larry Becker Farewell
June 27 –  District 6890 Installation in Auburndale – SAVE THE DATE!
July 7 – President Matt Brown – 1st meeting of the new Rotary year – theme = “Create Lasting Impact”


 

PROGRAM RECAP : Dr. William Allen, FSC Associate Professor of Digital Media - Interactive Gaming







PROGRAM May 19 >> Law Enforcement, Public Safety & Cameras – LPDACOP Hans Lehman

June 13-17th - Rotary International Convention in Taipei, Taiwan.

PROGRAM RECAP : Major Jill Seymour, School Safety 


















PROGRAM May 12 >>

Interactive Gaming – Dr. William Allen, FSC Associate Professor of Digital Media


Upcoming Programs & Events>>

May 19 – Law Enforcement, Public Safety & Cameras – LPDACOP Hans Lehman

May 22 – Flying Tigers Outing – Purchase Tickets via IGNITE, $40



June 2 - NO MEETING - ANNUAL DINNER THAT EVENING!

June 13-17th - Rotary International Convention in Taipei, Taiwan.

PROGRAM RECAP : Rotarian, Cal Arter - The History of Piper Aircraft, Lakeland & Worldwide

Past President Don Selvage introduced the program.

Cal dazzled us with his wit, charm and knowledge!

We learned how Piper aircraft came to Lakeland with great photos and many questions from his fellow Rotarians.







 

May 12 – Interactive Gaming – Dr. William Allen, FSC Associate Professor of Digital Media

May 19 – Law Enforcement, Public Safety & Cameras – LPDACOP Hans Lehman

May 22 – Flying Tigers Outing – Purchase Tickets via IGNITE, $40



June 2 - NO MEETING - ANNUAL DINNER THAT EVENING!

June 13-17th - Rotary International Convention in Taipei, Taiwan.

PROGRAM RECAP : Honduras Trip


Irma Cole led the program with a recap of the latest Honduras Trip with great photos and facts.  A big thank you to DGE and past team member Linda Johnson from the Auburndale Rotary Club who donated funds to build a house on this trip -  $3200.

After Irma shared the highlights of the trip's accomplishments, she asked the panel members to share their experiences. 

Past President Amanda Walls, her daughter Ella, fellow Rotarian Delta Ryan, and City of Lakeland Sister Cities Coordinator Tom Palmer were on the panel. 

Past President Bryce Philpot and his family also made the trip as well as Rotarian Kathy McGee and her husband Mike. 




Amanda and Ella have traveled to Honduras THREE TIMES! They shared their experiences and spoke about the relationships they've made with Hondurans and fellow Rotarians on the trip.  Delta said the trip made her passionate about what Rotary International is doing worldwide.  Tom always wanted to go on a mission trip!  Before this trip he only knew Mike and Kathy McGee. 

KEY TAKEAWAY >> It's all about relationships! Everyone agreed the trip makes a huge impact not only on La Pas families, but also on each team member personally.  

Irma encouraged everyone to follow Honduras Compassion Partners on social media and support what they do. 

Irma also made a plea for funds to build 2 houses - $3200 each.  The next scheduled Honduras trips are March 13-20 and March 20-27.  $800 for the week plus airfare (varies).  Join the team!!

 

UPCOMING PROGRAMS & EVENTS

TOMORROW, April 28 >>

THANK YOU FOR REPRESENTING THE LAKELAND ROTARY CLUB, Vince!

PROGRAM RECAP : Becky Troutman, County Commissioner District 1



Commissioner Troutman shared some fun facts and gave us her insights on the county regarding public safety, economic development and land use. 

Fun Facts:

Polk is 13th fastest growing MSA in U.S. & #1 in the state!
Polk's budget for 25/26 is $3.464 BILLION, no proposed millage rate increase for 26/27.
We are at a 54 year low crime rate.
Roads today cost $15-$17 million PER MILE to construct. YIKES!!
 

April 28 – History of Piper Aircraft and Lakeland – Cal Arter

May 2 – District Conference at Rotary’s Camp Florida in Brandon – Register via DACdb or Ignite, $20

May 5 – School Safety - PCSO Major Jill Seymour

May 12 – Interactive Gaming – Dr. William Allen, FSC Associate Professor of Digital Media

May 19 – Law Enforcement, Public Safety & Cameras – LPDACOP Hans Lehman

May 22 – Flying Tigers Outing – Purchase Tickets via IGNITE, $40

June 13-17th - Rotary International Convention in Taipei, Taiwan.

This week’s program featured speakers Sonya LaBosco, Rebecca Smith Baines, and Tomas Lares, introduced by Rotarian Irma Cole, who provided an in depth look at Florida Rotary’s Global Grant focused on human trafficking prevention and response.

The speakers shared details on a first of its kind, statewide Rotary Global Grant uniting all eight Florida districts in a three year effort to combat human trafficking through prevention, education, and survivor support. Our club is proud to be an early supporter of this initiative through District Designated Fund (DDF) contributions, helping bring resources and services to communities across Florida.

Tomas Lares, founder of United Abolitionists, outlined the organization’s work alongside federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. He described training programs that teach community members, hotel staff, healthcare workers, and first responders how to recognize and report human trafficking. Lares also highlighted the distribution of nearly 1,200 “rescue backpacks” containing essential items for victims recovered during operations, as well as survivor services such as emergency relocation, shelter placement, and ongoing advocacy.

A key initiative discussed was the creation of the first ever "Soft Room" at Orlando International Airport, developed through partnerships with airport leadership and law enforcement. This dedicated space provides a safe environment for victims to receive care, food, and support while being connected with advocates and services, and has already contributed to successful rescues.

Sonya LaBosco, Past District Governor, shared how the project gained momentum after being selected for Rotary Zone 34’s “Shark Tank,” emphasizing the unprecedented collaboration among Florida’s Rotary districts. She also highlighted Rotary’s role in Operation Home for the Holidays, the largest child recovery operation in U.S. history, where Rotary provided meals, logistical support, and resources to law enforcement during the recovery of 122 children.

Rebecca Smith Baines, President-Elect of the Rotary Club of Lake Nona and Global Grant lead, provided an update on the grant’s status, noting it has been submitted to Rotary International for approval. She emphasized that addressing human trafficking requires long-term commitment and collaboration, and that Rotary’s collective efforts can make a lasting difference.

The program concluded with the presentation of “Canvas of Hope,” a community art initiative symbolizing awareness, action, and hope for survivors.

The Florida Rotary District Governors Human Trafficking Prevention and Response Program will collaborate closely with local government agencies, nonprofit organizations, law enforcement, and community partners to ensure an effective and unified approach. This effort includes participation from all Florida Rotary districts—Districts 6890, 6930, 6940, 6950, 6960, 6970, 6980, and 6990—demonstrating a strong, statewide commitment to addressing this critical humanitarian issue. 

Timeline Estimated Start from: September 2024

Estimated duration: 36 Months

Total Estimated Budget: $393,750

Amount We Still Need: $378,750

Preserving Lakeland’s Story

Rotarian Brock Self introduced our featured speaker, LuAnn Mims, who presented an engaging and informative program on the Lakeland History and Culture Center, a vibrant and growing resource housed within the Lakeland Public Library.

LuAnn shared how the Center was created to bring greater visibility to Lakeland’s rich local history and to make it accessible to everyone. While Lakeland’s Special Collections have existed for decades, the History and Culture Center expands that mission by transforming archival materials into a dynamic, public-facing experience. Its guiding theme—“Many stories connecting one community”—reflects a commitment to preserving and celebrating the people, places, and events that shaped Lakeland.

The Center is made up of four key components:

• Archives Collection – Over a mile of preserved historical materials, including documents, photographs, maps, and artifacts, all stored in climate-controlled conditions to protect them for future generations.
• History Room – A research and education space where visitors can explore local history, genealogy, and even the history of their own homes with the help of trained staff.
• Digital Collections – Thousands of searchable, online records, photographs, and interactive tools such as story maps and “vanished” images that compare historic sites with present-day locations.
• Exhibit Gallery – A 1,400-square-foot gallery featuring rotating exhibits that highlight defining chapters of Lakeland’s history.

LuAnn highlighted the Center’s current exhibit, “From the Groves,” which explores Lakeland’s deep connection to the citrus industry and its identity as the former “World Citrus Center.” She also previewed an upcoming exhibit focused on Lakeland’s aviation history, scheduled to open in 2027.

Beyond exhibits, the Center offers lectures, walking tours, cemetery tours, and a popular DIY Digitization Lab, where residents can convert old photos, slides, VHS tapes, and other media into digital formats—free of charge. These services not only preserve history but also help residents share personal stories across generations.

With nearly 200,000 online views annually and thousands of in-person visitors, the Lakeland History and Culture Center is clearly making an impact. LuAnn closed by inviting Rotarians to visit the Center, explore its resources, and take pride in Lakeland’s unique story.

(We will be reaching PERSONALLY to those who have not signed up!!)  

PROSECCO is BOGO!

Help Spring Obsession with a donation. Please bring TOMORROW! 

Pictures from our latest service project!
Lake Wire Clean Up >>

Jorge Fidel Durón (Fido)

Born on April 23, 1902, Jorge Fidel Durón, known as Fido, made significant contributions to both Honduran history and the Rotary organization. He earned his Doctorate in Jurisprudence and Political Sciences and held notable public positions, including Minister of Education, Foreign Affairs, and Rector of the National University of Honduras.

Rotary Achievements

Joining Rotary Club Tegucigalpa in 1935, Fido became the first Honduran governor of District 110 in 1940, and served as director and vice president of Rotary International (1949-1950). He represented RI presidents at global conferences and founded "Honduras Rotaria" magazine, which he edited for 33 years.

Legacy

Fido, honored for his contributions, passed away at 93 on September 20, 1995. His legacy as Honduras' most distinguished rotarian continues to inspire, marked by his kindness, wisdom, and dedication to service.

Photo credit: hondurea.wordpress.

Pictures from our latest fellowship event!
A Night at the AGB >>

Pictures from our latest service project!
Lake Wire Clean Up >>

Jorge Fidel Durón (Fido)

Born on April 23, 1902, Jorge Fidel Durón, known as Fido, made significant contributions to both Honduran history and the Rotary organization. He earned his Doctorate in Jurisprudence and Political Sciences and held notable public positions, including Minister of Education, Foreign Affairs, and Rector of the National University of Honduras.

Rotary Achievements

Joining Rotary Club Tegucigalpa in 1935, Fido became the first Honduran governor of District 110 in 1940, and served as director and vice president of Rotary International (1949-1950). He represented RI presidents at global conferences and founded "Honduras Rotaria" magazine, which he edited for 33 years.

Legacy

Fido, honored for his contributions, passed away at 93 on September 20, 1995. His legacy as Honduras' most distinguished rotarian continues to inspire, marked by his kindness, wisdom, and dedication to service.

Photo credit: hondurea.wordpress.

Southeastern University President, Dr. Kent Ingle, Presents Inspiring University Growth Story

Southeastern University's President, Dr. Kent Ingle, shared the remarkable journey of the university, emphasizing its commitment to accessible and affordable education. Dr. Ingle was introduced by Mark Biddinger, who highlighted SEU as a beacon of hope in the tumultuous higher education industry.

Since assuming his leadership role in 2011, Dr. Ingle has overseen SEU's growth from 2,500 students to over 13,500, including a network of 200 extension sites nationwide. The Chronicle of Higher Education has recognized SEU as one of the fastest-growing private nonprofit institutions under Dr. Ingle's innovative leadership, transforming Christian higher education.

Focusing on listening and learning, Dr. Ingle discussed how SEU prioritizes accessible, affordable, and experiential education. This includes dual enrollment for high school students, online programs for working adults, and global campuses in Brazil, Moldova, Uganda, and Argentina.

SEU's competency-based education model, AI seminars, and workforce innovation programs are groundbreaking initiatives. The American Center for Public Leadership (ACPL), founded by former Congressman Dennis Ross and now led by SEU alum Cameron Taney, equips students for civic engagement.

Partnerships with organizations such as Lakeland Regional Health and Publix provide career pathways for students, benefiting Lakeland and beyond. SEU and the Rotary Club share a commitment to leadership rooted in care, compassion, and service.

As Lakeland grows, SEU remains dedicated to innovation and excellence, contributing to a thriving community. Dr. Ingle's presentation underscored the impact of education and leadership, thanking the Rotary Club and donors for their contributions in shaping lives and building a brighter future.

Together, SEU and the Rotary Club will continue to inspire and transform the community.

In acknowledgment of remarkable generosity, Irma Cole and Mark Scolnick have been inducted into the esteemed Arch Klumph Society. This society honors exceptional donors who have contributed $250,000 or more to the Rotary Foundation over their lifetime.

Irma and Mark's generosity underscores the vital role that donors play in supporting initiatives that improve health, provide education, create sustainable communities, and promote peace worldwide. Their contributions, along with those from other compassionate individuals, drive meaningful change and foster brighter futures for many.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Irma and Mark, as well as to all the donors whose continued support and dedication make such impactful work possible. Your contributions are invaluable, and together, we are shaping a better world.

Feel free to check out Irma and Mark's photo featured in the Rotary International Magazine as we celebrate their extraordinary achievement.

Dr. Carlos Canseco

In Monterrey, Mexico, the name Carlos Canseco resonated with respect and admiration. As a dedicated physician, Carlos pioneered the first allergy course at the University of Nuevo León and spearheaded the establishment of the city's first children's hospital, bringing hope and healing to countless young lives.

In 1984, Carlos was elected the first Mexican president of Rotary International. Driven by altruism, he championed the global eradication of polio, collaborating with the World Health Organization. Under his leadership, Rotary helped vaccinate billions of children, turning the tide against the disease.

Carlos's extraordinary contributions earned him Mexico’s highest national award, the Belisario Domínguez Medal of Honor, on October 7, 2004. He passed away on January 14, 2009, leaving behind a legacy of public health advancements and international service.

Carlos Canseco's story is a testament to how one person's dedication can transform lives and inspire a healthier, more caring world.

Dr. Charles H. Mayo: A Legacy of Service and Community

Dr. Charles H. Mayo, co-founder of the world-renowned Mayo Clinic alongside his brother William J. Mayo, was not only a pioneering physician but also a devoted community leader. His commitment to service extended beyond the medical field, reflecting a deep belief in collective responsibility and community care.

As a distinguished member of the Rotary Club of Rochester, Minnesota, Dr. Mayo exemplified the club's principles through his tireless efforts to improve local education and public health. He was instrumental in establishing Rochester's first junior college, broadening educational opportunities for young people. His dedication to health saw him expand public health programs for schoolchildren, ensuring a healthier future for the community.

Dr. Mayo also championed the arts and recreation, contributing to school music programs and donating a motion picture machine to local schools, bringing joy and innovation to students' lives.

Celebrated as one of the world's great history-makers by the Rotary Club, Dr. Charles H. Mayo's legacy is one of compassion, service, and lasting impact. His work continues to inspire and uplift Rochester, Minnesota, embodying the true spirit of community engagement and generosity.
 

1. Club Service: Activities to ensure the club functions well.
2. Vocational Service: Representing the value of one's profession to club members.
3. Community Service: Actions to improve life in the local community, often helping youth, the elderly, and the disabled.
4. International Service: Projects to promote global understanding, goodwill, and peace.

Delta Ryan gave the club two new club flags from her last trip to Africa.

Total Donations: $69,238

• Investment Allocation:
  • $32,888 (50%) to The Rotary Foundation
  • $16,444 (25%) to designated local projects
  • $16,444 (35%) to designated global projects

Designated Local Projects:

1. RCMA Mulberry Community Academy Project ($8,000)
   • Provides educational resources for children of migrant workers in Polk County.
2. Lighthouse Ministries Project ($3,000)
   • Provides shelter and resources for homeless in Lakeland.
3. Combee Connection Project ($3,000)
   • Provides food, clothing, and resources to homeless and low-income families.
4. America 250 Path to Freedom Project ($1000)
5. Human Trafficking Prevention and Response ($1,444)
   • Supports victim services and enhances law enforcement capabilities in Florida.

Designated Global Projects:

1. Human Trafficking   ($10,000)
   • First of a series of 3 global grants for the project.
2. Water and Sanitation in La Paz, Honduras ($4,000)
   • Provides water and sanitation from water filters, pials, and latrines.
3. Fruit Trees Nursery in La Paz, Honduras($1,444)
   • Addresses deforestation, soil degradation, and food insecurity, and increased flooding risk.
4. Drinking Water for Villages in Pune District, India ($1,000)
   • Provides purified water through ATM dispensing system.

Foundation Facts:

• Funds are split typically 50% local and 50% overseas.
• This year, 80% funds are designated locally due to usage of a U.S.-based Global Grant.
• Annual Fund raising surpassed $200k with a record AF per capita of $1,208.

Donations Impact:

• 60 cents protects a child from polio.
• $50 provides clean water to prevent waterborne illness.
• $500 can launch an anti-bullying campaign.

Call to Action:

• Engage in Foundation roles.
• Join Local Endowment discussions.
• Meet the goal of 100% member donations ($25 minimum).
• Help re-attain status as 100% Paul Harris Fellow Club.
• Join or adjust Rotary Direct.

September 11 - Club Fellowship Event: Bourbon Tasting at CORE Wealth Advisors (6:00PM). This event is at capacity!

September 12 - "Get Lucky with Rotary," a joint fundraiser hosted by The Lakeland Tigertown and South Rotary Clubs. This event will feature great food and drink, Bingo and other games of chance. Proceeds from the event will benefit Talbot House Ministries and ROAR Florida. (5:30 to 8:00PM at the Florida Children's Museum.) Get your tickets here!

September 16 - International Service Panel Webinar. (6:00 to 7:00PM) Are you curious about making a global difference? This webinar will provide information and how you can get involved in life-changing international projects. Hear firsthand from experienced team leaders and participants who have made a tangible impact in communities abroad. Registration is available on the DACdb calendar.

September 20-21st - Keep Rotary's Camp Florida Beautiful Project.  Join fellow Rotarians from the district to paint the camp cabins. Camp Florida (Brandon, FL) will provide the paint and tools. Volunteers are asked to bring gloves, closed-toe shoes and a willingness to work! Register on Zeffy. 

September 26th - Partners in Education at Southwest Middle School. (7:30  to 8:30AM) As part of our ongoing partnership, club members are invited to Southwest Middle School for a one-hour visit and guided tour designed to deepen understanding of the school's operations and impact. RSVP on the Ignite App.

October 4th - The 8th Annual Golf Championship at Cleveland Heights Golf Course. All proceeds will benefit Flight to Honor Mission #11. Registration and Sponsorship Opportunities are still available. Visit www.lakelandrotarygolf.com to register.

February 6, 2026 - Save the date for the 22nd Annual Twilight 5k, benefiting Common Ground Park. The committee is currently seeking sponsorships. For more information, email Scott LaRonde.



 

• Kathy Abels brought her husband Bruce Abels
• Lyle Philipson brought his wife Carole Philipson
• No visiting Rotarians

• District conference at Rotary campground
• Rotary District installation dinner at Magnolia building

Dr. Alan Snyder presented an insightful talk on "General George Washington – When Character Mattered." He emphasized Washington's command of respect during the perilous times of the American Revolutionary War. Despite having some recognition from his role in the French-Indian War, Washington's Virginian origins helped unite the colonies. He took command outside Boston, faced the challenge of forming an army from short-term enlistees, and strategically brought cannons to drive the British out of Boston. His efforts continued in New York City, where, despite a significant disadvantage against the British Navy, he managed to save his troops from Long Island. This strategic retreat occurred just a month after the Declaration of Independence. Washington's resilience was marked by repeated retreats, fighting, and his historic crossing of the Delaware River to achieve a morale-boosting victory at Trenton and subsequently at Princeton.

Dr. Snyder highlighted Washington's character, emphasizing his perseverance through numerous losses and the harsh winter at Valley Forge in 1777-1778, which tested his leadership and dealt with political challenges. Despite these hardships, Washington led his troops to a standstill at the Battle of Monmouth and ultimately to victory with the British surrender at Yorktown in 1781. Washington's integrity and leadership culminated in his unanimous election as the first President of the United States in 1789 and re-election in 1792. Snyder underscored Washington's personal commitment to honesty and virtue, quoting him: "I hope I shall always possess firmness and virtue enough to maintain (what I consider the most enviable of all titles) the character of an honest man."

Next week, the Rotary club will receive an update on Lakeland Regional Health.

Irma Cole introduced the guests and visiting Rotarians. Happy Dollars were collected by Kim Brunson.

Rick Maxey introduced the program for the day which was the Rotary Club Scholarship speeches. The program helps five young Polk County School graduates attend college or continue their education. Each scholarship is worth $1,000. Each student was introduced by Rick Maxey and then given two minutes to speak.

• Keyshawn Blythers, LHS - will attend Bethune Cookman University to study psychology and criminal justice; will play the euphonium in the band there
• Ava Campbell, GIHS - will attend UF to study criminology and hopefully will go to law school after that to be a juvenile defense attorney one day
• Meredith Colbert-Cartwight, Harrison School for the Arts - will attend USF to study in their music department
• Quinn Joseph, GJHS - will attend Polk State College to follow his dream and study filmmaking and get his AA then transfer to UF
• Cachet Kirkland, Harrison School for the Arts - will be attending SCAD to major in film & TV

• 14.8% of the people in Honduras live for less than $1.90/day. 60% of people have no access to clean water or sanitation.
• Their mission is to transform the city of La Paz
• They try to buy as many materials & supplies from La Paz/Honduras so that they can further stimulate the economy.
• They provide water filters, pilas, latrines, wooden houses.
• They also provide an adult high school education program. They are looking for sponsors for the program.