In celebration of Earth Day on April 22nd, we have invited Jessie Crow Mermel to come and share her knowledge and show us how to do composting in our own backyard.

     Jessie loves to nurture opportunities for people to experience wonder and awe in the natural world. She graduated with a degree in Sustainability Studies but is driven to go deeper than sustainability and study systems of regeneration, restoration/re-storying, and rewilding. Jessie wears several hats, all dedicated to her passion for caring for the Earth and community. She is an Educator at Farmers Rising (formerly Angelic Organics Learning Center), a Master Naturalist, a field representative for Friends of Illinois Nature Preserves, and a worker-owner of Nettle Curbside Compost. She also leads women's circles and mindfulness experiences in nature.

     Jessie loves to help people think about our connection to the soil and choices in food systems as a solution to climate change. She has a wanderlust for exploring the natural world by canoe, foot, or bicycle and loves to indulge in camping and backpacking.

     This will be an interesting and educational program in addition to being a timely one with all of the interest in "Saving Our Planet".  This will be an opportunity to bring a guest or prospective member to join us in person at Memorial Hall or via Zoom.  Russ Johansson will introduce our presenter and act as Rotary Host.  

 

     Victor "Vic" Rivera is a s a passionate advocate for the revitalization of his community in Rockford, where he was born and raised. Living on the city’s south side, he is deeply committed to uplifting and promoting Latino arts, music, and culture. Through his efforts in curating events such as art shows and community gatherings, Vic aims to create a vibrant cultural landscape that reflects the richness of Latino heritage. His partnerships with local organizations, including the Rockford Arts Council and the Rockford Library, further strengthen his mission to foster artistic expression and community engagement.

     As a dedicated father of three, Vic understands the importance of creating a nurturing environment for future generations. With a long-term vision for positive change, he is determined to make a lasting impact in his community.

     Vic will talk about his work to bring Latino art and music to the Rockford community and why he thinks that it is important for Rockford to be exposed to all types of cultures.

     This will be an interesting and educational program and one that you will want to invite a guest or prospective member to join us in person at Memorial Hall or via Zoom.

     Samir Romero will introduce our presenter and act as Rotary host. 

 

     Our April Rotary Happy Hour will be on April 24th from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM at the Carlyle Brewing Company at 215 E. State Street.

 

 

     Several years ago, the Sustainability Committee chaired by Russ Johansson and Tyler Smith planted daffodils on the south side of Memorial Hall.  Many Rotarians helped with this project.

 

     Photo courtesy of Liz Dickinson.  Thanks Liz.

 

 

     A gentle reminder that you please pay for your lunch, $200 for March, April, May, and June. You can pay by credit card or send a check to our treasurer, Monica Glenny. If you bring your own lunch, you can opt out by not paying the $200.00. If you have any questions, or if you only want the lunches for a specific month, please tell Bob Canfield, 815-968-7200 or canfilaw@sbcglobal.net .