06/11/2026
We love to hear from our Rotarians on their “why” for joining Rotary.
Yes, I remember as if it was yesterday or was it the day before yesterday or was it last week! I was mowing the lawn on a cool but sunny day. It was in the front, east of my garage as I was enjoying the sound of a lawnmower cutting grass and a few dandelions scattered throughout the yard! Yard work is very relaxing to me. I've been doing this kind of work all of my life, even landscaping and yard beautification projects. I'm quite good at it, however my wife begs to differ. She says that I do at times! I get the chance to reminisce about life, the good, bad and the ugly. Most times I think about my wife Tonya my beautiful Angel and our soon-to-be 45 years of marriage this August 2026. Okay, back to the storyline. I saw my neighbor Jim Simpson out of the corner of my eye walking behind the evergreen tree (spruce?) in his yard. All of a sudden, I hear my name being called. I immediately looked up and turned casting my ears to the sound. Behold, there was Jim! He had the look of a man on a mission. I paused and greeted him. He asked me if I would like to join him in attendance to a Rotarian Club meeting sometime. He went on to explain the mission of the club, when they meet, and other pertinent information. As Jim was talking my mind went back to the days of me being a Cub Scout, Club 44 member, and an Optimist Club member. Now, I would have the opportunity to be a Rotarian Club member! So, I told Jim I would have to check in with the Allied Supreme Commander, that's Tonya my wife. Sometime later Jim and I attended a Rotary Club meeting. He drove us in his blue truck which he named "Old Blue". I enjoyed myself. I noticed right off the bat the welcoming and cordial atmosphere of everyone. The warm reception of everyone sealed my wanting to become a member of this club. After 1-1/2 years since joining it has been wonderful indeed. I enjoy the civic and community activities we do and charitable support we give to many organizations and schools.
You too can become a member of this great organization. Come join us. Hope to see you soon!
Randy Shed
Rotarian Member as of January 2025
