The Ellensburg (noon) Rotary Club is the third oldest in the district, chartered on April 1, 1922. 

Today, we still do what we've always done, serve the Ellensburg community through several local projects. 

Fall is our busiest time. We participate in the community Thanksgiving Dinner, and the Christmas Basket program. We support the Community Fall food drive, and we've been Santa's Helper almost as long as the Jolly Old Man has been around.

We're proud of our building of parks and other public facilities in the community. Recently, the club was honored to be recognized at the dedication of downtown Unity Park, where a plaque for Rotary is displayed.

Contact: Corwin King, PDG
kingc@fairpoint.net
509-607-9658

Clearwater Rotarians have been lighting up the town for over fifteen years. Merry Christmas/Joyeux Noel is written in lights on the tennis court fence and the trees, Jerry the Moose and the Info Center have been decorated with lights, trees and greenery. Santa entertains the local children from his big chair and the choir sings all the old favorite Christmas Songs. The annual cookie decorating competition is always a big event. Locals can enjoy a mug of hot chocolate outside while sitting around the fire waiting for Santa and his elf to light up the big tree. This year the lightup happens on December 7th and we are all hoping for just a little bit of snow to get everyone in the mood for the big day.

Abbey Bates, Clearwater Lightup committee, 3bates64@gmail.com

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Past District Governor Henry “Hank” Heffernan. Hank was a charter member of the Yakima Southwest Rotary Club at its founding in 1969 and served as the club’s fourth president (1973-1974) and faithfully served Rotary for more than five decades. He led District 5060 as District Governor 1997–1998, during his year of service he established the role of Assistant Governor in District 5060 –and his leadership continues to shape our district today.

Hank’s Rotary legacy is defined by steady, practical service, and lasting institutional contributions. During his year as District Governor, he established the role of Assistant Governor in District 5060, a structure that still supports and strengthens our clubs. In early 2019, Yakima Southwest Rotary honored Hank as the only charter member still active in Rotary at the club’s 50th anniversary. In August of this year, he was named the inaugural recipient of the Hank Heffernan Spirit of Southwest Rotary Award, created to reflect his remarkable legacy of leadership, fellowship, and service and is awarded to the club member who exemplifies the heart and soul of Southwest Rotary’s mission.

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Saturday, November 15th — our club was out at the Summerland pier to begin setting up the holiday lights for the waterfront. If you saw our earlier post, this is the project we invited the community to join us for, and it was great to finally get it underway.

 Saturday, November 15th — our club was out at the Summerland pier to begin setting up the holiday lights for the waterfront. If you saw our earlier post, this is the project we invited the community to join us for, and it was great to finally get it underway.

We had a strong turnout, and a few community members joined in after seeing the information online. The extra hands made a real difference and helped get the season off to a good start 

Throughout the morning, people walking along the waterfront stopped to share kind words as the displays started to take shape. It’s a simple project, but once those lights switch on, it becomes something the whole community enjoys.
 
If you’ve ever wondered what being part of Rotary looks like, this is a pretty good snapshot — hands-on, community-focused work that anyone can take part in. If you're curious about getting involved, feel free to reach out or visit us at a meeting. We'd love to have you join us.

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The weekend of November 8th and 9th was one for the books as the Rotary Clubs of the Wenatchee Valley — Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Cashmere, Leavenworth, and Chelan — came together for a powerful community effort to support the Chelan Douglas Action Council

The weekend of November 8th and 9th was one for the books as the Rotary Clubs of the Wenatchee Valley — Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, Cashmere, Leavenworth, and Chelan — came together for a powerful community effort to support the Chelan Douglas Action Council

Through our collaborative Stuff the Bus event, Rotarians collected over 5,000 pounds of food and monetary donations at four separate locations across the Valley. CDAC serves as the clearinghouse for food distribution to all food banks in Chelan and Douglas counties, making this effort especially impactful for families across our region.

  

We partnered with Link Transit, which generously provided buses at three Wenatchee locations: Albertsons, Grocery Outlet, and the Wenatchee Wild game. In Leavenworth, Rotarians staffed a booth at Safeway to support their local food bank, the Upper Valley MEND. Meanwhile, the Chelan Rotary Club is continuing the momentum by staffing their Safeway over the weekend to benefit their local food bank, and the Cashmere Rotary Club held a "raise the paddle" at their auction and dinner event for the Cashmere food bank and Small Miracles raising over $16,000! Eliah, Exchange Student with The Wenatchee Club was on hand to help as well.

Link Transit also amplified our reach by running newspaper ads and radio spots, while our clubs boosted awareness through social media. The community response was incredible — families came out in droves, many bringing their children, and the buses quickly became a favorite attraction for curious kids and adults alike.

 

One of the most heartwarming moments came when a little girl stepped forward and handed a Rotarian her single dollar bill, simply wanting to help feed those in need. That moment captured the true spirit of Rotary — neighbor helping neighbor.

Even more impressive, volunteers from all clubs were mobilized and organized in just a matter of days. According to CDAC, this was one of the largest food drives they have ever seen.

This is truly what happens when compassion, collaboration, and community come together.

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With snow already starting to gather in the mountains, Rotary Club of Upper Kittitas County is already anticipating their unique annual fundraiser. The Rotary Snowmobile FUNd Run is an annual event the club began hosting in 2012. The event brings together hundreds of snowmobilers and today raises over $20,000 a year. Over the last 13 years, the FUNd Run raised over $120,000, which the club used to support initiatives that enrich the lives of kids in their community.

Raising Funding in the Snow

With snow already starting to gather in the mountains, Rotary Club of Upper Kittitas County is already anticipating their unique annual fundraiser. The Rotary Snowmobile FUNd Run is an annual event the club began hosting in 2012. The event brings together hundreds of snowmobilers and today raises over $20,000 a year. Over the last 13 years, the FUNd Run raised over $120,000, which the club used to support initiatives that enrich the lives of kids in their community.

Each year the ride starts at 9 AM at the base of the Cle Elum Ridge. From there, riders travel on a groomed route up the forested ridge. Along the way they stop at checkpoints where riders get their cards punched and receive swag from sponsors, partake in refreshments, snap some pictures, and visit with other riders. Following the ride, they participate in a fun raffle with lots of great prizes including overnight resort stays, gift baskets, gift cards, clothing, sports equipment, and cash.

The next Snowmobile FUNd Run is scheduled for Saturday, February 7, 2026. If you snowmobile, you should join for a fun day in the snow! Registration will open in the coming weeks on their club website ukcrotary.com.

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The members of Rotary Club of Yakima, Yakima Southwest Rotary Club, Yakima Sunrise Rotary Club and the Yakima Rotary Trust hosted another record-breaking community food drive, called Operation Harvest.

The annual food drive was hosted on October 11th. The week prior to the event, 64 volunteers delivered 16,000 empty grocery bags to households throughout Yakima, Selah, Moxee, Naches and Gleed on household porches. These bags had flyers explaining that the bags were to be filled in advance of collection on October 11th. There were 40 volunteers who covered 69 routes to pick up food on that day. Those volunteers consisted not only of members, but also Davis and Eisenhower High School Interact students, and Rosie’s Rosebud Dance and Cheer Team who worked at the Rotary Marketplace Collection site emptying cars and trucks as they came in, organizing the food, and reloading it into trucks

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The Rotary Club of Kelowna Ogopogo, which comprises approximately 40 members and benefits from a regular team of community volunteers for various projects, recently completed its regular fall Adopt-a-Road clean-up. The event engaged a substantial team to manage their designated section of downtown Kelowna.

The Adopt-a-Road program is a municipal initiative that allows organizations to take responsibility for maintaining the cleanliness of a specific road segments. The Ogopogo Rotary Club undertakes this essential public service several times a year, demonstrating a commitment to environmental responsibility and public space stewardship. Adopt-a-Road Organizer Ray Lewis noted, "It is consistent to see a large team turn out for our Adopt-a-Road clean-ups. This regular commitment to keeping our city centre maintained reflects the dedication of the Rotary Club of Kelowna Ogopogo volunteers."

The Rotary Club of Kelowna Ogopogo, which comprises approximately 40 members and benefits from a regular team of community volunteers for various projects, recently completed its regular fall Adopt-a-Road clean-up. The event engaged a substantial team to manage their designated section of downtown Kelowna.

The Adopt-a-Road program is a municipal initiative that allows organizations to take responsibility for maintaining the cleanliness of a specific road segments. The Ogopogo Rotary Club undertakes this essential public service several times a year, demonstrating a commitment to environmental responsibility and public space stewardship. Adopt-a-Road Organizer Ray Lewis noted, "It is consistent to see a large team turn out for our Adopt-a-Road clean-ups. This regular commitment to keeping our city centre maintained reflects the dedication of the Rotary Club of Kelowna Ogopogo volunteers."
   The work involved a thorough cleaning of their adopted section of downtown Kelowna. The clean-up took place on a recent crisp fall morning and included participation from both veteran Rotarians and new faces. The activity supports the Rotary ideal of Service Above Self by contributing to a clean city center for residents and visitors. Following the completion of the work, a gathering at 'Cake for Breakfast' was held.

As the community moves into the Holiday Season, this clean-up effort helps ensure the area is presentable. Club President Brian Hillaby commented, "Our Adopt-a-Road program is a direct example of Rotary's commitment in action. It provides a means to connect with our community and apply the principle of 'Service Above Self.' I am proud of the effort and commitment our members and volunteers bring to this project." While this event focused on local environmental maintenance, every act of local service contributes to the strength of the community, aligning with DG Tracy’s theme of “Feeding the Future” by nurturing a healthy environment for all.

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On Wednesday, November 19th, I had the pleasure of joining a fun?filled evening of creativity, laughter, and teamwork at the gingerbread house building competition—all in support of families in our community through affordable housing.

Two clubs from my area (THE Rotary Club of Kelowna and Okanagan Mission Rotary Club) rolled up their sleeves and crafted deliciously beautiful gingerbread villages. The room was alive with friendly rivalry, as our clubs competed alongside local businesses to design the most festive creations.

It was more than just a competition—it was a celebration of community, generosity, and the joy of building something meaningful together.

Tobi Byrne
Assistant Governor, Area 5

Why not create a Global Grant Project in District 5060 worth over $30,000 USD and the district will match your club’s contribution 2:1!
GG projects must be initiated by a D5060 Rotary Club as the international sponsor to qualify for 2:1 match.
If you participate in another district’s GG project, D5060 will match 1:1.
Rotary International matches district designated funds for global grants at 80%.  (RI does not match club or cash contributions)

If you need help writing a grant, or have questions, please contact in Canada; Gary Soles at garlinda@shaw.ca or in USA; Guy Evans at guyevans10@gmail.com

If you have questions about TRF or want a presentation, you can contact myself at sherry@adobie.com
Sherry Chamberlain, PDG & DRFC 

In the quiet early hours of Chelan, when the lake is still and the town is just waking up, the first lights to flicker on belong to the Lake Chelan Valley Boys & Girls Club. By 6 AM, the doors swing open and children begin to arrive—some rubbing sleepy eyes, others bursting with morning excitement. They come because they want a place where they belong, a place that feels safe, fun, and full of possibilities. And the Club, guided by its mission to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential, is ready to welcome every single one of them.

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Y2Y is a transformative program that immerses Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth between the ages of 15 and 17 in Indigenous culture while fostering connections with a diverse group of young people from across Canada. They engage in meaningful cultural exchanges, learn about Indigenous traditions, and deepen their understanding of Indigenous history and heritage.

Through activities, workshops, and interactive sessions, youth are encouraged to embrace diversity, build relationships, and develop a greater appreciation for Indigenous perspectives and contributions. This experience serves as a catalyst for personal growth, intercultural learning, and fostering lasting connections.

Who is eligible?

Indigenous, self-identified Indigenous and Non-Indigenous youth (male, female, LGBTQ2S & disabled) interested in being an agent for change and currently enrolled in Grades 9 to 11. Applicants for the 2025 HIP Reconciliation experience must be between the ages of 15 and 17 as of March 1, 2026, meaning they are born on or between March 1, 2009, and March 1, 2011.

How much does it cost?

This event is free for those who are selected and includes travel to and from the event, accommodations, food and museum admission. Only 50 youth will be chosen from across Canada.
How do students apply? Students apply online by no later than Dec. 15, 2025. Applications are reviewed by the HIP National Y2Y Committee. Participants will be selected and notified by Jan. 15, 2026.

What is Honouring Indigenous Peoples (HIP)? An organization started ten years ago by Rotarians nationwide that brings together Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians with an emphasis on relationship building, to support the next generation of leaders and changing knowledge, attitudes and behaviours. Today, HIP is an independent national charity with a board that is comprised of 50% Indigenous and 50% non-Indigenous, and is gender balanced and geographically dispersed from coast-to-coast.

What can students expect? This video from the 2025 HIP National Truth and Reconciliation Experience provides an excellent overview of the kinds of activities youth will participate in and what they will personally gain from this experience.

Where can I find more information? Please visit our website or contact us via email at info@hipally.com or your local Rotary district coordinator.

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The Field of Crosses: Kelowna’s Tribute to Canada’s Fallen

Each November, Kelowna’s City Park is transformed by the Field of Crosses—over 220 white crosses honoring Canadian Armed Forces members who lost their lives in service. Inspired by Calgary’s Memorial Drive, this memorial began in 2018 and is now central to Kelowna’s Remembrance Day events.

The Field of Crosses: Kelowna’s Tribute to Canada’s Fallen

Each November, Kelowna’s City Park is transformed by the Field of Crosses—over 220 white crosses honoring Canadian Armed Forces members who lost their lives in service. Inspired by Calgary’s Memorial Drive, this memorial began in 2018 and is now central to Kelowna’s Remembrance Day events.

The project is co-led by the Rotary Club of Kelowna and the Okanagan Military Museum Society, but it is the Rotary Club’s leadership, organization, and hands-on commitment that truly bring the memorial to life. Rotary volunteers carefully plan and oversee the setup, maintenance, and takedown of the display near the Cenotaph, ensuring each cross is respectfully placed and personalized with the name and details of a fallen soldier. Their dedication extends to coordinating lighting, ceremonies, and educational programs produced by the Okanagan Military Museum that connects the community—especially students—with the stories behind the names.
The memorial is open 24 hours a day from November 2 to November 12, inviting everyone to pay their respects. After November 12, Rotary volunteers lead the careful removal and storage of the crosses for the following year. The Field of Crosses stands as a living legacy of remembrance and community service, powerfully reflecting the Rotary Club’s motto: “Service Above Self.”





Cheers 
Robin Smith
President, Rotary Club of Kelowna

 

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Our district is making a powerful and positive impact on youth and peace through our vibrant Youth Services Programs—and we’d love for you to be part of the conversation!

Join your fellow Rotarians on December 4 at 4:30 pm PST for a lively look at the four youth programs District 5060 proudly supports at our Youth Services Open House on Zoom. Bring your ideas, your curiosity, and your questions!

You’ll hear from inspiring leaders representing:

• Youth Exchange – Jill Leonard (Wenatchee), Martha Kennedy (Kelowna Sunrise), Kayle Tjomsaas (Kamloops Daybreak), and Richard & Robin DeRock (Wenatchee Confluence)
• Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA) – Jeff Scott (Yakima Southwest)
• Interact – Kyle Rasmussen (Yakima Sunrise)
• Rotex – Xander Medina (Yakima-area former RYE student)

Thursday, December 4 at 4:30 PM on Zoom
RSVP at the link and get it on your calendar—we can’t wait to see you there! 

Questions? Contact Kathleen McNalty at kmcnalty1@outlook.com

It is with great enthusiasm that we announce Martin Streich of the Yakima Southwest Rotary Club has been selected to serve as District Governor for the 2028–2029 Rotary year.

 

“I am extremely humbled and honored for the opportunity to serve as District Governor in 2028–29. I look forward to collaborating with the clubs and members in District 5060 and to advance the awesome work that Rotary does in our communities, district and the world.”

Martin has been a dedicated Rotarian since 2009, bringing to Rotary a wealth of leadership experience from his career as a Director of Operations and chemical engineer. As Club President in 2020–21, he led through the challenges of the pandemic—growing membership, fostering collaboration, and spearheading projects that left a lasting impact, including a playground build on the Yakima Greenway with more than 650 volunteers.

His service extends beyond his club, including leadership of record-breaking fundraisers, major community projects, and global service through Habitat for Humanity builds in Myanmar, Malawi, Nepal, and Portugal. He currently serves on the Yakima Valley College Trust Board, helping award over $700,000 in scholarships each year.

Martin’s Rotary vision centers on collaboration, innovation, and growth—empowering every club and member to lead with purpose and connect through service.

Please join the District Leadership Team in congratulating and welcoming Martin 

The RC Of Osoyoos and Tony of the Ellensburg Rotary along with support from the District Rotaract Chair Kyle are working together to raise funds to build a Maternal Health Clinic in Liberia Africa.  Women and children will benefit from a clinic that will allow mothers to get medical attention for their unborn children as well as support after the birth.
We are looking for more Rotary Clubs or persons to support the district grant application valued at $22,000 USD.
Please reach out to either:

Sherry Chamberlain DRFC at sherry@adobie.com
 Tony Swartz at tswartz@gmail.com.

  Any dollar amount will help us with this worthwhile service project.

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READY TO START?

Follow these guidelines: Submitting a successful grant application

Contact DRFC: Sherry Chamberlain

Global Grants Chair USA: Guy Evans

Global Grants Chair CAN: Gary Soles

Rotary District 5060 is matching 2:1 for Global Grants in 2025-2026 season. Get started now and reach out to us!

Foundation & District Grants | Rotary District 5060

Registration fees go up $100USD after December 15, 2025, so click the link below and get REGISTERED now!

Why join us in Taipei? It's a chance to expand your mind, grow your connections, and celebrate the spirit of Rotary. The RI convention is from 13–17 June 2026.

Take advantage of the Host Organization Committee’s Signature Events to experience the best of Taipei. Highlights include:

• 7-day Taiwan cycling tour along the scenic east coast to End Polio
• 3K or 12.5K run to End Polio
• Taiwanese opera performances
• Host country hospitality night
• Additional cultural experiences throughout the week

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