Galena Rotary Club

05/30/2026

05/30/2026

History you learn while on foot

The theme for Friday’s walk was history. Our walking club enjoyed our trip through American history as we strolled through Grant Park and the surrounding neighborhoods. We were able to spend time reflecting upon a statue of President Ulysses S. Grant and First Lady Julia Dent Grant, as well as a bust of Ely Samuel Parker. In front of the home of Congressman Samuel Benjamin Washburne was a plaque sharing the history this prominent family beginning in 1836 and continuing through 2012. A member of our group was able to enhance the history our trip down Park Avenue with the help of galenailtours.com. Here are some of our pictures. Enjoy😊. Jon

05/27/2026

Enjoy our message found in picture #1

05/23/2026

The Galena & Elizabeth neighborhood walking club
Walk #4
The Galena River Trail
Rotary & Running History Shared

Today we enjoyed our first walk away from the city streets along the Galena River Trail. The trail was in great shape and with the extra room we were able to pick up the pace a bit. A gentle rain teased us early on. We reached the 2-mile marker before turning around to complete our 4-mile journey. Trails are a wonderful space for a group conversation as you walk. I was grateful to be able to engage with a fellow Rotarian and learned more about his busy life and ongoing commitment to serving Galena not only through Rotary but also the Galena Lions & Elks Clubs. We both have a long-ago history of running that we enjoyed reflecting upon. Several people walkers have asked me if this club is going to continue after our 9 walks. I certainly hope so. 😊. Jon

05/23/2026

The Galena & Elizabeth neighborhood walking club
Walk #4
The Galena River Trail
Enthusiasm for Education Shared

The perfect way to add a few more steps to your 4-mile journey is to walk to the Bakehouse Café. Two weeks ago, I shared coffee with three lovely ladies and today our table grew to four. The main topic of conversation was a shared enthusiasm for teaching. Two co-workers from the Warren Community School District along with my wife Julie shared their love of working with children. These walks have offered a glimpse of this positive energy found in all our area schools. Teachers everywhere! School is out and we would love to have you join us 😊. Jon

05/21/2026

Galena & Elizabeth neighborhood walking club
Walk #4
The Galena River Trail
Saturday, May 23rd @ 8 a.m.
Depot Park (South end – Entrance to the trail)

Today we will again start at Depot Park but park closer to the entrance of the Galena River Trail. We will be escaping the city sidewalks to enjoy a walk in the woods along the Galena River. 3 & ½ to 4 miles along the trail will feel more relaxing yet refreshing and invigorating with little elevation. After we return to the trailhead, we will find our way either by car or on foot to Galena Bakehouse @ 423 South Main Street to enjoy coffee and a scone.