For the past ten years, Cayucos Rotary has hosted the “Lost at Sea” memorial on Memorial Day, to remember those who served as well as civilians who had been lost at sea. The memorial is held at 1500 hours every year at the Cayucos Pier.

Each year, there are devotional and ceremonial tributes following the national anthem and welcome remarks. Military veterans come dressed in their uniforms and are honored.  Music follows the tolling of the bell, and the meaning of the “Missing Man” and the symbolism of the wreath are explained to the audience. Benediction continues and everyone marches out to the pier for blessings of the wreath. The wreath is then tossed into the ocean, and the rifle salute follows. The ceremony closes with the flyover of war planes. It’s an emotionally charged and touching event, and not to be missed.

 

Recently the Rotary Club of Conejo Valley, collaborated with several organizations, including Rotary Club of Nuevo Leon, Gift For Life, Cardio Chavitos, international surgeons, and anesthesiologists to help perform life saving surgeries on approximately 31 children in Monterrey Mexico. Diego Velasquez, International Service Chair for Conejo Valley’s club, worked together with his club and the various groups to get a Rotary global grant approved to further support this incredible mission. Early November 2018, Rotarian, Diego Velasquez, along with numerous volunteers arrived in Monterrey Mexico amongst the captivating views of the mountains eager to get their project started to help these less fortunate children in dire need. They visited the world class Hospital Zambrano Hellion where surgeries took place and had a pre-surgery meeting with the local Rotary Club of Nuevo Leon, Gift for Life, Cardio Chavitos, surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other volunteers. Children checked in and had an emotional, high-spirited meeting with the volunteers.  All in all surgeries went very well and these lovely children got a second chance at life thanks to Rotary and the other amazing organizations’ contributions. As Rotarians toured the city after there was a sign on the street that summed up the trip, “Vivir Es Increible”, which means that "To Live Is Incredible!"

Five local high school students earn scholarships for their artistic “Perspectives on Peace”

Ventura, CA: The Rotary Club of Ventura, which this year celebrates 100 years of service to the Ventura community, has announced the winners of a new Perspectives on Peace Scholarship program. Five high school seniors are being awarded a total of $9,000 in scholarships, based on their outstanding original art submissions around the theme of “Perspectives on Peace.” They will be honored at Ventura Rotary Club on May 15th, and their artwork will have a special exhibit at the Museum of Ventura Country from May 18th – June 2nd.

 

The Rotary Club of Atascadero planned an effort that has spanned 6 years! The project has galvanized the city of Atascadero like no other project. They needed to raise $1,200,000 to complete the "Parents for Joy" project. CLICK HERE for details on the project. The project is now open thanks to a huge donation of land and money by the city and over $500,000.00 in local donations. Past President, Tom Zirk (2015-16) set aside $7,000 during his term for this project. This year, current president, Don Idler was also determined to finish his year by being a major donor. Their fundraisers this year “Cork & Cap Benefit” and the "Crab Feed and Auction" garnered enough to supply the balance to their foundation to write a check for the remaining $25,000! The Rotary Club of Atascadero pulled together and worked very hard to do this as this was not their only donation to the community and support of other clubs.