Thank You For Making the Golf Tournament a Huge Success

Thank You For Making the Golf Tournament a Huge Success![]() |
Fight Against Human TraffickingThe Rotary Club of Blanco County is a strong advocate for education and awareness on the issue of Human Trafficking. We are encouraging everyone to see the movie called The Sound of Freedom (July 4) which is based on a true story of a man who helps fight against human traffickers. ![]() |
International Project in Belize![]() ![]() ![]() Several Rotarians from the Blanco County Club traveled to Placencia, Belize in May. As an international project, they visited St. John’s Primary School and presented them with approximately 100 books for the school’s library and 50 hygiene kits for children of the school. The group of Rotarians also visited It Takes A Village Youth Center where they donated soccer and basketballs as well as prizes for their treasure box. Another 50 hygiene kits were donated to St. Alphonsus Primary School in Seine Bight Village. |
Rotary International Convention Concludes with a Message of Hope |
Texas Regional Bank (Blanco) Silver Sponsor of the 2023 Annual Joe Garcia Memorial Golf Tournament![]() Thank you Texas Regional Bank for being a Silver Sponsor of the 2023 Annual Joe Garcia Golf Tournament! Calen McNett, Blanco Market President (right) and Josh Walker, Banking Center Operations Manager (left) presented a check to The Rotary Club of Blanco County, Sidney Cox (center). The tournament will be held May 1 at Vaaler Creek Golf Club in Blanco.
https://www.facebook.com/TRBBlanco https://blancocountyrotary.org/sitepage/golf-tournament texasregionalbank.com #BlancoCountyRotary |
Rotary Club’s Annual Golf Tournament Promises to be a Big Success!![]() The Rotary Club of Blanco County is sponsoring its annual Joe Garcia Memorial Golf Tournament on Monday, May 1st, at Blanco’s Vaaler Creek Golf Course. Golfers will enjoy a day of sport, camaraderie, and fun as they support the many worthy projects sponsored by the Rotary. Prizes will be awarded for closest to the pin, longest drive, etc. A Silent Auction will be featured and special "events" will be enjoyed at various holes for those golfers willing to bet on a throw of the die, and other surprises. The day promises to be a fun and memorable one. Lunch and dinner will be provided. Golfers are invited to form their own Foursome, or sign up individually. Cost for the day is the same as last year's fee, or $100 per player. To register and sign-up for the tournament, contact Doug McKenzie at: dougsellshomes@gvtc.com, or Ken Smith at: kqsmith0636@gmail.com The tournament is the major fund raiser for the Rotary Club of Blanco County. Thanks to the players, sponsors, and donations, the Rotary Club has sponsored scholarships for seniors in Blanco and Johnson City, has provided hygiene kits for local students and refugee children, books, computers and other equipment to our local schools, human trafficking awareness, Save-a-Life Kits, and many other worthwhile projects benefiting our community. The Rotary is an international organization whose mission is to provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through its fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders. The Blanco Club supports that mission through the above projects and community volunteering. “Service Above Self” is the Rotary Motto. If you’d like to join the Blanco Club, contact any member or Terri McKenzie at terimckenzie@gvtc.com. |
Tara Poer Inducted![]() Tara Poer was inducted at the March 6 meeting. She will be a great asset to our club and brings lots of idea and experiences from her years in the United States Navy and Department of Homeland Security. Tara said she jointed Rotary because it offers the opportunity to give back to the community. Welcome Tara! |
Our Member Spotlight for March is George Copeland![]() Our member spotlight for March is George Copeland. George was recently our speaker and shared interesting information about electromagnetic waves and how insects create and receive them to communicate with each other. |
Rotary Assists at Blanco Middle School Educational Event![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Rotarians Anne Marie Morgan, Tracy Barr and Harvie Lindeman assisted with set up and serving lunch at the Blanco Middle School Educational Event held February 10. During the event students attended presentations on topics such as healthy eating, substance abuse prevention, mental health awareness, kindness, healthy relationships, and all around health goals.
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The Rotary Foundation![]() Xavier Toson, District 5840 Rotary Foundation Chair, was the guest speaker at our club's January 5 meeting. The Rotary Foundation helps Rotary members to advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace by improving health, providing quality education, improving the environment, and alleviating poverty. Mr. Toson shared stories and encouraged members to donate, leaving a legacy that will impact those we may never meet. The Rotary Club of Blanco County receives district grants from the foundation to help fund scholarships provided to local high school graduates in Blanco and Johnson City. To donate visit https://www.rotary.org/en/donate |
Blanco Rotarians Serving Others![]() The Rotary Club of Blanco County recently supported the ongoing Mission of H.O.P.E. (Helping Overcome Poverty Everywhere), under the direction of Mrs. Chris Cloyd of Blanco’s United Methodist Church, by helping gather, pack, and stuff over 150 backpacks distributed to young refugees in Reynosa and Piedras Negras, Mexico in time for Christmas. The backpacks were divided among teens, toddlers, and infants and contained such items as hygiene products (soap, toothpaste, brushes, etc.), writing or coloring materials, hats, socks and small toys. Rotarians Jayne Lightfoot and Sandy Switzer gathered and compiled all of the hygiene kits for both the refugees in Mexico as well as others to be distributed to schools in Blanco County. Harvie Lindeman, Rotary Club President, and Jack Twilley helped stuff the backpacks destined for Mexico. Among the many projects that the Rotary Club of Blanco County has conducted, this project, along with collecting coats and blankets last October, are the first international projects that the club has undertaken. It is another example of Rotarians living the Rotary Motto of “Service above Self”. If you are interested in becoming a Rotarian, working with motivated and caring neighbors, and making our Blanco community a better place to live, contact Teri McKenzie at: terimckenzie@gvtc.com. We welcome you! |
International Project![]() Rotarians recently prepared hygiene kits containing soap, shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, tooth brush, comb, wash cloth, etc. As one of the club's international projects, 100 hygiene kits were sent to Mexico and 100 kits will be sent to Belize where they will be given to school children in the villages of Placencia and Seine Bight. Pictured left to right are Rotarians Jayne Lightfoot, Jan Gass, Tracy Barr, Sandy Switzer and Pat Clewell. If you are interested in serving in Blanco County and beyond please email membership chair, Teri McKenzie, at terimckenzie@gvtc.com
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Mike Lindeman Inducted![]() Mike Lindeman was inducted as a new Rotarian at the club meeting and Christmas gathering December 16, 2022.
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George and Becky Copeland Inducted![]() George and Becky Copeland were inducted as new Rotarians at the November 21, 2022 club meeting. |
Leta Garcia Receives Major Donor, Level 1 Award![]() ![]() Leta Garcia received the Major Donor, Level 1 award for her generous contributions to the Rotary Foundation during the November 7 club meeting. Kathy Hubbard and Harvie Lindeman presented Leta with a crystal recognition piece, a pendant and a pin. Thank you, Leta, for your service and dedication to Rotary! |
From Crisis to Comeback - Testimony Awakening![]() The date was changed to NOVEMBER 2. This event is this evening at 7 pm at the Blanco United Methodist Church. The flier says Oct 12 - but it is TODAY, November 2.
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American Legion and the Rotary Club of Blanco County Co-Host dinner honoring Blanco Veterans
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Coat and Blanket Drive Huge Success![]() The Rotary Club of Blanco County’s coat and blanket drive, held in October, was a huge success. The club gathered approximately 50 large bags of coats and blankets from the Blanco and Johnson City communities that were provided to refugees in northern Mexico. Supporting the ongoing Mission of H.O.P.E. (Helping Overcome Poverty Everywhere), the coats and blankets were delivered to Kaleo Ministries in Reynosa, Mexico and Rey de Reyes Methodist Church in Piedras Negras, Mexico. Each of these organizations are feeding and sheltering many refugees today. We would like to thank the citizens of Blanco County for your generous donations. Pictured left to right: Harvie Lindeman (Rotary Club President), Chris Cloyd (HOPE Ministry), Josh Muse (Kaleo Ministries). |
Pints for Polio![]() |
Groundwater Conservation![]() Ron Fiesler, General Manager of the Blanco/Pedernales Groundwater Conservation District, was our guest speaker at the October 4 club meeting. He emphasized that everyone concerned with groundwater is very aware of the need to use good science. He showed us maps that illustrate the various layers of the Trinity aquifer. Our District works cooperatively with nine other groundwater districts and plan for 50 years into the future in terms of water needs, quality, preservation, etc. Ron responded to several questions about both wells and rainwater collection systems. |
Mike Arnold Inducted![]() Our newest club member is Mike Arnold (pictured on left). Teri McKenzie (pictured on right) introduced Mike and provided him with the new member packet at the October 4 club meeting. |
H.O.P.E. Ministry![]() Chris Cloyd gave an excellent presentation on H.O.P.E. (Helping Overcome Poverty Everywhere) Ministry at the September 6 Rotary Club meeting. Chris has been active in missionary work since 1982 and explained that rather than providing “handouts” to those in poverty, H.O.P.E. Ministry empowers them by paying them a fair wage to sew and make crafts. The handmade crafts are then sold at Fair Trade booths and the money raised provides sustainable income for families in extreme poverty and profits for additional missions. Donations for H.O.P.E. products will: *Provide livable wages for families in poverty *Provide coats and blankets for the homeless *Sponsor children, orphans and missionaries *Help eradicate diseases like malaria *Build schools, homes, churches & orphanages *Drill water wells and much more! If you would like to host a Fair Trade booth to raise funds for missions, please contact Christine Cloyd for more info. Chris.cloyd@yahoo.com (512) 550-9282. |
Paul Harris Fellow Recognition![]() ![]() Leta Garcia and Pat Clewell recently presented Paul Harris Fellow Recognition awards to five Rotarians of the Blanco County Club. Those receiving the recognition were Harvie Lindeman, Ken Smith, Dixie Van Eynde, Sidney Cox and Jayne Lightfoot. The Paul Harris Fellow recognition acknowledges individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in their name, of $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation.
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Two New Members Inducted![]() The Rotary Club of Blanco County welcomes our newest members, Matthew and Martha Herden, who were inducted at the August 15 meeting. Matt retired from the San Antonio Policed Department and is active in the Blanco community where he has served on Blanco County's Child Protective Services board, City of Blanco Planning and Zoning board and Blanco ISD school board. He is currently a board commissioner for Blanco County's Emergency Services District 2. Martha is a fifth-generation Blanco County resident and has served the City of Blanco in the following capacities: Planning and Zoning Committee member and chairperson, Blanco Comprehensive Master Plan Review Committee Chairperson, City Council member in 2017, Mayor of Blanco 2017-2020. Martha currently works part time as a clerk at the Blanco County Precinct #4 office in Blanco. Matt and Martha will definitely be an asset to the club. Pictured left to right: Harvie Lindeman (Rotary Club President), Matt Herden, Martha Herden, Teri McKenzie (Rotary Club Membership Chairperson).
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Human Trafficking Awareness Presentation Scheduled for August 15![]() |
Human Trafficking Presentation![]() On August 9, Susan Burkholder, a volunteer with Ransomed Life, gave a very informative presentation on Human Trafficking. She shared that there are approximately 313,000 HT victims trafficked in Texas on a daily basis. 79,000 are kids under the age of 18. The biggest threat to our kids is through social media, like FB, Instagram, Snap Chat, What’s App, and other Gaming platforms which are easy to use for offenders to look for victims. Sex slavery is not gender specific. Girls are not the only victims. According to a local youth center in SA who are engaged with counseling primarily street youth, almost 50% are boys. Susan stressed the importance of being aware and to report ANYTHING that looks suspicious to local law enforcement AND the Human Trafficking Hotline 888-3737-888. She recommends putting the phone numbers in your cell phone. Predators have been apprehended and jailed by those who felt that something wasn’t “quite right”. If you see something say something! The next Human Trafficking Forum for all of the Blanco community will be at 3:30 pm upstairs at the Blanco Courthouse on Monday August 15th. Susan Burkholder will present again. Invite a friend or a group of friends who you think would benefit from this presentation. Sodas, tea and cookies will be served. Pictured on the right are Rotarians Sandy Switzer, Pat Clewell and Tracy Barr. To the right is Susan Burkholder and to the far right is Libbey Aly with the Blanco Chamber of Commerce. |
Greg Stevens Inducted![]() Welcome to Greg Stevens, the newest member of the Rotary Club of Blanco County, who was inducted at the June 6 meeting. Greg has a long history as a Rotarian in California and Oregon. We are glad to have him in Blanco County. |
Blood Drive for Victims of Uvalde Tragedy![]() |
Scholarships Awarded to Local GraduatesThe Rotary Club of Blanco County recently awarded six $1000 scholarships to deserving LBJ and Blanco High School seniors. Each student was recommended by a teacher(s) and submitted a Rotary scholarship application to the Club. Each applicant was evaluated on their academic record, extra-curricular and community activities, and their career and life goals. The outstanding academic scholarship recipients from LBJ High School in Johnson City were: Maura Ibanez Rylee Welch To Blanco High School seniors, the Rotary Club has awarded 2 academic and 1 community service scholarship in the past. However this year, the Club awarded 3 academic scholarships because the 3 recipients were nearly identical in the evaluation or scoring process. These outstanding students were: Joe Hernandez Macy Murphree Valentina Edwards Named after Lt.Col, USAF, Retired Chaplain, Joe Garcia, the Community Service scholarship was awarded to Macy Murphree for her clearly outstanding contributions to her school and community. Left to right: Joe Kustelski (Rotary President), Rylee Welch, Maura Ibanez, Jack Twilley (Rotarian) Left to right: Jack Twilley (Rotarian), Valentina Edwards, Macy Murphree, Joe Kustelski (Rotary President) not pictured: Joe Hernandez Macy Murphree was awarded the Joe Garcia Community Service Scholarship |
Golf Tournament a Big Success!![]() The Rotary Club of Blanco County sponsored the annual Joe Garcia Memorial Golf Tournament May 9th, at Blanco’s Vaaler Creek Golf Course. Over 80 golfers enjoyed a day of sport, camaraderie, and fun as they supported the many worthy projects sponsored by the Rotary. The winning foursome, sponsored by Frost Bank, were Fair Oaks Rotarians David Murrah, Ron Hubbard, John Rogers and Dave Driskell. Prizes were also awarded in contests for closest to the pin, longest drive, etc. The tournament is the major fund raiser for the Rotary Club of Blanco County. Thanks to the players, many sponsors, and donations to the silent auction, the Rotary Club raised over $25,000. This money is used throughout the year for such projects as scholarships for high school seniors, human trafficking awareness, art supplies for elementary students, drug and alcohol prevention, Project Graduation support, hygiene and save-a-life kits, and many others. |
Rebecca Lightfoot O'Shea Inducted![]() Welcome to our newest club member, Rebecca Lightfoot O'Shea, who was inducted at the club meeting March 21. |
Richard Pankhurst Inducted![]() Welcome to our newest club member, Richard Pankhurst, who was inducted at the club meeting March 7. |
Tom Jones Inducted![]() ![]() Welcome to new Rotarian, Tom Jones, who was inducted at the club meeting February 21.
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GUEST SPEAKER SENATOR DONNA CAMPBELL
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Rotary Club of Blanco County Supports BHS Powerlifters![]() The Rotary Club of Blanco County recently presented the BHS Powerlifting Team a check for $1000 for purchase of needed safety equipment such as back braces, or weightlifting belts, bench shirts, wrist wraps, etc. - all necessary powerlifting equipment. The high school Powerlifters consist of both boys and girls ranging from freshman to seniors. Though not as popular as football, basketball, etc., Powerlifting is a recognized Olympic sport that builds both inner strength and physical strength of its athletes. Supervised and led by Coach Tesch and, previously, Coach Rhoades, the Lifters have successfully competed throughout the District. Purchase of additional safety equipment will avoid sharing of the equipment among the students during meets and practices (a potential health concern), as well as decreasing the amount of suit-up time by the Lifters. |
RAISING AWARENESS AGAINST HUMAN TRAFFICKING AND EXPLOITATION OF TEENS
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Wear Blue Day![]() The Rotary Club of Blanco County gathered, wearing blue, to raise awareness against human trafficking on January 11. #WearBlueDay
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Raising Awareness about Human Trafficking and Exploitation of Teensby Tracy Barr Rotary Club of Blanco County Rotary Clubs in Central Texas are participating in the Department of Homeland Securities WEAR BLUE DAY to bring attention to the issue of human trafficking, since January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month. The Department of Homeland Security Blue Campaign’s #WearBlueDay is on January 11th every year. On Jan 17, the Rotary Club of Blanco County is hosting Susan Burkholder, who will be speaking on the topic of teens lured into on-line and in person commercial sexual exploitation. Susan is a charter member of District 5840’s E-Club to Combat Human Trafficking, and a member of RAGAS (Rotary Action Group Against Human Trafficking). She is also the Director of Community Awareness of Ransomed Life, a Bexar County area based non-profit that provides a healing community for sexually exploited youth. Burkholder provides presentations to service clubs, parents and general audiences as well as in depth trainings for school staff, and people who work with at-risk youth. Parents, teachers, community leaders and volunteers are welcome to attend. The Old 300 Barbecue - The Back Forty room, 318 4th St. Blanco. RSVP for dinner (mandatory) tbarr54@gmail.com which begins at 6pm or attend general meeting starting promptly at 6:30pm. |
January 11 Wear Blue Day![]() |
Rotary and Women’s Club Assist with Blanco Elementary School Art![]() Members of the Blanco Women’s Club and the Rotary Club of Blanco County have joined together to support the Blanco Elementary School’s art program. The formal art program was discontinued after the district experienced financial difficulties several years ago. This year, first grade teacher, Rosalind Ellis, reached out to the Rotary Club to inquire if Rotarians would volunteer to teach art classes to Kindergarten through second graders. The answer was, of course, a resound yes!! In seeking the volunteers, the Rotarians contacted the Blanco Women’s Club to see if any of their members would like to help with the art project. They immediately stepped forward to offer their artistic expertise.
The program is conducted each Friday with volunteers alternating every other Friday to help the young students with their art projects. The most recent project was making “pinch pots” with clay. Each student made their own pinch pot, engraved their initials on the bottom, and will paint their pots during another class period. The students were excited that they could give the pots to their parents, relatives or friends as Christmas presents. Pictured are the second grade artists learning how to work with clay in order to make the pinch pots. The students are watching retired art teacher, Ms. Kuebel demonstrate the technique of working with clay. Jayne Lightfoot, Rotarian Volunteer, and Betsy Scheffe, Blanco Women's Club Volunteer, are ready to help the young artists. |
Mykal Van Stavern Inducted![]() New Rotary member, Mykal Van Stavern (right), was inducted December 6. Mykal is an insurance agent with Van Stavern Insurance Group.
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Veteran's Day Celebration![]() |
BLANCO COUNTY ROTARIANS SUPPORT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ART PROJECT![]() ![]() by Jack Twilley Blanco Rotarian and Artist, Leta Garcia and local Artist Betsy Scheffe, along with Jayne Lightfoot and Jan Gass, are volunteering at the Blanco Elementary School as Artists and helpers to introduce and teach kindergartners through second graders art. They are engaged in learning art through seasonal projects like decorating for Thanksgiving, Christmas, etc. The project is spearheaded by first grade teacher, Rosalind Ellis, and supported by principal, Jowie Walker. The elementary school has been without an art program since 2017 when the district’s financial shortfall forced curtailment of its art program. The volunteers are now filling that gap and using their artistic knowledge and skills to teach the students the basics of art (shapes, colors, etc.) while allowing each individual’s own creativity to shine through their project. The project is another example of the Rotary Club of Blanco County reaching out to help our community and its citizens - and living the Rotary Motto: “Service Above Self”. If you are interested in joining the Rotary club, please contact Rotarian Tracy Barr via email at: tbarr54@gmail.com. (photos by Sandy Switzer) |
PINTS FOR POLIO EVENT RAISED FUNDS FOR END POLIO NOW![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() The Rotary Club of Blanco County held a Pints for Polio fundraiser event for End Polio Now on October 27 at Old 300 BBQ - Back Forty. The eradication of polio is one of Rotary's longest standing and most significant efforts and Rotary continues to raise funds to help immunize children all over the world. Herman Weber and his wife, Nancy, stopped by to make a donation at the event. Herman, who was born and raised in Blanco County, was personally affected by polio. In 1955 when he was only 2 ½ years old, Herman went from running as a toddler, to walking, to crawling over a short period of time. He had contracted polio. At the event local club President, Joe Kustelski, shared a video about the progress in eradicating polio worldwide. Those in attendance enjoyed a BBQ meal and a beer or wine. The Joker's Wild drawing was won by Doug McKenzie who donated the money back to the polio fundraiser. |
Guest Speaker from CoAPT![]() Amber Corder, Program Coordinator for CoAPT, was our guest speaker at the club meeting October 18. Amber shared information regarding the mission and vision of Blanco Coalition of Awareness, Prevention, and Treatment of Substance Abuse. She shared statistics and strategies used to prevent/decrease substance abuse in our youth. |
Walk to Raise Awareness about Human Trafficking![]() On October 16 the Rotary Club of Blanco County and the D5840 Combat Human Trafficking Rotary Club held a walk around the Old Blanco Courthouse grounds to raise awareness about human trafficking. Rotarians handed out information and answered questions about the myths and facts surrounding human trafficking. Rotarian Susan Burkholder, who is also a member of the Ransomed Life organization, will provide presentations to your local community and schools about steps we can take to prevent the exploitation of adults and children for profit. |
Walk for Human Trafficking Awareness![]() |
A Walk for FreedomPlease join us for A Walk for Freedom around the Courthouse in Blanco - Oct. 16, 2021 - 10 am - 11:30 am Rotarians with the D5840 Combat Human Trafficking Club together with members and friends of The Rotary Club of Blanco County are hosting an AWARENESS WALK to bring attention to Human Trafficking. On this day, in cities across the U.S., thousands of people will be walking in response to A21’s Walk for Freedom national campaign against human trafficking. Our walk takes place during Blanco Market Days where vendors and shoppers will be on the Courthouse Square. We will carry signs, pass out brochures, and answer questions. The walk will last around 30 minutes, and afterwards the group will gather at Bindseil City Park, (across the street from the Courthouse) for refreshments and a short Q and A session with Susan Burkholder, Rotarian and Randsomed Life volunteer. We will gather at the entrance to Bindseil City Park southeast of the courthouse on Pecan Street at 10 am. Park on the side streets around town, on Pecan and 5th St. near the Old Pioneer Museum, or Pecan and 2nd or 3rd streets, near the Bindseil Park entrance. If possible please wear a Rotary T-shirt, cap or name tag. For further questions please text or call Tracy Barr @ 512-576-1930
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Tristan Schlinke Thanks Rotary for Scholarship![]() Tristan Schlinke attended the club meeting October 4 to thank Rotary for the scholarship awarded to him. Tristan attends Schreiner University in Kerrville. Tristan is pictured with his grandmother, Rotarian Leta Garcia. |
Guest Speaker Karen Stevenson![]() Karen Stevenson, Director of National Museum of the Pacific War was our guest speaker at the October 4 club meeting.
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New Member Inducted![]() Chris Van Stavern was inducted to the Rotary Club of Blanco County at the September 20 meeting. Chris is a financial planner at Springs Wealth Group. |
Pints for Polio Fundraiser to End Polio Now Oct 27![]() |
Rotarian Ronni Pue Receives Paul Harris Fellow Recognition![]() Ronni Pue received Paul Harris Recognition +2 at the September 7 club meeting. The Paul Harris Fellow recognition acknowledges individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in their name, of $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation.
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New Members Inducted![]() Pictured left to right Candy Cargill, Pam Bindseil and Shannon Millard were inducted to the Rotary Club of Blanco County at the September 7 meeting. The three new members are all realtors at Hill Country Real Estate in Blanco.
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Guest Speaker KK Welch of Rockbox Theater![]() KK Welch of Rockbox Theater in Fredericksburg was the guest speaker at our club meeting September 7. |
Meeting TUESDAY, September 7Our next meeting is TUESDAY (not Monday), September 7 at 12:00 noon at Old 300 BBQ - Back Forty. Hope to see you there. ![]() |
Blanco County Community Resource Center![]() Dawn Capra and Alyce Sierra with the Blanco County Community Resource Center (CRC), located in Johnson City, were guests at the Rotary Club of Blanco County meeting August 16. Dawn is the Site Director and spoke about the wide array of services offered to citizens of Blanco County. The mission of CRC is to serve communities by connecting people to resources that meet needs and change futures. The center can connect individuals to resources for food, housing, safety, and transportation. In addition, they can assist with pregnancy and child resources, education, employment, health care, and legal services. The CRC asked for Rotary’s help in spreading the word that the center is there to offer assistance to individuals in need. Pictured left to right Dawn Capra (CRC), Joe Kustelski (Rotary President), Tracy Barr (Rotary Membership Chair), Alyce Sierra (CRC). |
Support our Friends at the Rotary Club of Fair Oaks Ranch![]() |
Making the Internet Safer for Children and FamiliesThe Rotary Club of Blanco County supports several organizations that are bringing awareness to human trafficking and its adverse affects on children and families, such as the post below. Read on! |
Thank you to Cox Paving of TexasSidney Cox, President of Cox Paving of Texas, receives the thank you gift of an engraved candy dish from Leta Garcia for being a Gold Sponsor of the Joe Garcia Memorial Golf Tournament held in June. ![]() |
Thank you to The GVTC FoundationThe GVTC Foundation receives the thank you gift of an engraved candy dish from the Rotary Club of Blanco County for being a Platinum Sponsor of the Joe Garcia Memorial Golf Tournament held in June. Pictured, top Row: Antonio Lucero, Brad Meyer, Rita Acker; bottom Row: Randy Inman, Sonia Aguillon (President of The GVTC Foundation), Bob Backle (Rotarian), Les Johnson. ![]() |
The GVTC Foundation donates $3000 to the Joe Garcia Memorial Golf TournamentThe GVTC Foundation presented a check for $3,000 to the Rotary Club of Blanco County Joe Garcia Memorial Golf Tournament held June 7, 2021. Pictured, top Row: Antonio Lucero, Brad Meyer, Rita Acker; bottom Row: Sonia Aguillon (President of The GVTC Foundation), Randy Inman, Les Johnson, Bob Backle (Rotarian) ![]() |
Guest Speaker, Rachel Lumpee, August 2![]() |
Rotarians volunteer at Blanco Elementary School summer program![]() During the month of June, Rotarians from the Rotary Club of Blanco County provided assistance to the students and teachers at Blanco Elementary School’s summer program. Rotarians, Kathie Estrada (at top) and Jack Twilley (above), are shown volunteering their time and talents working with students and demonstrating the Rotary motto - Service Above Self. Other Rotarians who volunteered and worked with summer program students were Jan Gass, Jerry Gass, Sandy Switzer, Tracy Barr and Connie Cox.
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Guest Speaker, Tommy Weir, Blanco County Commissioner for Precinct 1![]() Tommy Weir, Blanco County Commissioner for Precinct 1, was the guest speaker at the July 19 club meeting. Tommy talked about some of the challenges faced by the Commissioner’s Court including HOT tax, the actual jurisdiction of the court and what they can and can’t do, development, density issues, growth in the county, water issues, road and bridge repair. He said that Law Enforcement expenditures are about 47% of the county budget. Sheriff Jackson addressed some of the challenges at our meeting a couple months ago. The court fully supports our Law Enforcement agencies and understand how full their caseloads are. Pictured is club President, Joe Kustelski, thanking Tommy Weir for a very interactive discussion.
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Foundation Achievement Banner![]() At the July 19 meeting, Bob presented the club with the Foundation achievement banner for 2019-20. Our club has 100% participation in contributions and all members are Sustaining Members. Only 11 of the 54 clubs in our District are at this status! Way to go Rotary Club of Blanco County! |
President, Joe Kustelski, sworn in June 21.![]() The Rotary Club of Blanco County 2021-2022 President, Joe Kustelski, was sworn in by District Governor, Kristy Vandenberg, at the June 21 meeting.
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Online Safety & Awareness TrainingOnline safety and awareness training - parenting event to protect your kids. FREE. Register on Eventbrite. ![]() |
New Members Inducted![]() ![]() Three new members were inducted to The Rotary Club of Blanco County at the June 21 meeting. The club welcomes Teri and Doug McKenzie who are owners of RE/MAX Genesis in Blanco and Barbara Propes who is a self-employed event planner. Some of the reasons to join Rotary: • Friendship and fellowship • Opportunity to serve and do good both locally and internationally • Community involvement • Continuing education and speakers to keep members informed about what is going on in the community, nation and world. • Fun If you are interested in becoming a Rotarian, please contact Tracy Barr, membership chairperson, at (512) 576-1930 or Tbarr54@gmail.com |
2021-2022 Club Officers and Committee Chairs![]() Incoming District Governor, Kristy Vandenberg was present at the June 21 club meeting to install the 2021-2022 Rotary Club of Blanco County Officers and Committee Chairs. Pictured standing left to right Jack Twilley (Service Projects and Youth Activities Chair), Dixie Van Eynde (Secretary), Bob Backle (The Rotary Foundation Chair), District Governor Kristy Vandenberg, Joe Kustelski (President), Gerald Gass (Sergeant-at-Arms), Harvie Lindeman (President Elect & Treasurer); seated left to right Tracy Barr ( President-Nominee & Membership Chair), Connie Cox (Public Image Chair). |
Outgoing Club President Recognized![]() Bob Backle, 2020-2021 Club President pictured on the left, was recognized for his exemplary service and organization in leading the club for the past year. Incoming club President for 2021-2022, Joe Kustelski, presented Bob with a thank you plaque.
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Rotarian of the Year Award - Sandy Switzer![]() At the June 21 club meeting Bob Backle, club President, presented the Rotarian of the Year award to Sandy Switzer. Sandy was recognized for her dedication and hard work on the many service projects and for keeping our club in the news despite the difficult year covid-19 presented for us. |
Service Above Self Awards![]() Bob Backle, club president, presented Service Above Self awards to Frank Dubuisson (left) and Ken Smith (right) at the June 21 meeting. These two men worked extremely hard organizing the Joe Garcia Memorial Golf Tournament fundraiser held earlier this month. |
Outgoing 2020-2021 Officers and Committee ChairsBob Backle, club President, presented gifts to the outgoing 2020-2021 officers and committee chairs at the June 21 club meeting. Pictured below, left to right: Gerald Gass, Joe Kustelski, Sandy Switzer, Tracy Barr, Pat Clewell, Leta Garcia, Frank Dubuisson, Jack Twilley, Harvie Lindeman, Bob Backle. Not pictured Ronni Pue. ![]() |
THANK YOUThe Rotary Club of Blanco County wishes to THANK the following businesses & volunteers for their support of the Joe Garcia Memorial Golf Tournament held on June 7, 2021. The tournament was a great success! Platinum Sponsor: GVTC Foundation Gold Sponsor: Cox Paving Silver Sponsors: Frost Bank Legacy Hills Kendall Country Abstract L & L Drilling Bronze Sponsors: Blanco Pharmacy & Wellness Dirt Works Hal & Sandy Switzer Henry House Mattuck Services, Inc. Special Events Sponsors: 42 on 32 RV Park Blanco Garden Center Blanco Hydrogas Frost Bank Henry House JB Hall Construction LLC Mahoney Custom Homes Property Medic Texas Farm Bureau WCR Land Surveying Hole Sponsors: Apache A/C Bill & Kathy Fusco Blanco County Friends of the Night Sky Blanco Dental Center Blanco Heating & A/C Blanco Pharmacy & Wellness Blanco Vet Clinic Guardian Title & Dean Mayne Hal & Sandy Switzer HC Wireless Hill Country Real Estate HNB Blanco Banking Center James Harris Josie’s Kitchen Lightfoot Realty Lone Star Capital Bank Peterson Tire RE/MAX St. Michaels and All Angels Episcopal Church Security State Bank Seymour’s Garage Sidco Enterprises Steve & Marcie Wagner Dr. Weaver Texas Cannon Brewing Company Trinity Lutheran Men’s Group Cash Sponsors: Blanco Swiss Lodge Hotel Greg & Cathy Miller Elaine Drum, CPA El Charro Mexican Restaurant Jazel’s Hair Studio & Barbershop Joe & Victoria Guidry Mike & Karen Robinson Thaddeus Millard Lunch Provided by SUBWAY Dinner Provided by CHICKEN EXPRESS Bottled Water donated by: Chicken Express Lowe’s Blanco & Johnson City Tractor Supply - Blanco RE/MAX MANY THANKS to our Blanco County Rotarian Volunteers, and to: Bernadette Reneau Carl and Liza Struck Blanco FFA students Diana Schwind Kellye Lane Rhonda Norville Michael Thomas – San Saba Rotary ClubMaelee Sowa Johnson City Print Shop for their excellent work! |
Golf Tournament Great SuccessThe Rotary Club of Blanco County held the Joe Garcia Memorial Golf Tournament at Vaaler Creek Golf Course in Blanco on June 7. Joe Garcia, who passed away December 26, 2020, was the founder of The Rotary Club of Blanco County and made many contributions to the Blanco community. 65 golfers participated in the tournament and a silent auction was also held. Funds raised are used for scholarships, Project Graduation, Human Trafficking Awareness, Blanco Education Foundation, computers, books and other equipment for schools. The winning team shot a 54 on the 72 par course while the second place team shot a 55 and the third place team 58. The winning teams and winners of other events are pictured below. The Rotary Club of Blanco County would like to thank the sponsors, golfers, and those who donated items for the silent auction. The tournament was a great success! ![]() 1st Place Team: Paul Antrim, Drake Robinson, John Antrim and Ryan Watts ![]() 2nd Place Team: Roger Burton, Dave Spenny, Mike Robbins and Doc Blanchard ![]() 3rd Place Team: Bill Fusco, John Rogers, Ron Hubbard and Tuffy Burton ![]() Longest Drive Winners: Kayla Wersal and Mike Robbins ![]() Straightest Drive Winners: Karen Maxton and Richard Fryover ![]() Putting Contest Winners: Ryan Watts (1st) and Joe Bono (2nd) ![]() Closest to Pin Winner: Ron Hubbard |
Joe Garcia Golf Tournament Silent Auction![]() The Rotary Club of Blanco County is proud to present the Joe Garcia Memorial Golf Tournament on Jun 7th, 2021 at Vaaler Creek Golf Club, 228 Jeff Vaughn, Blanco, TX. 78606. Tee-time is 12 noon. At SILENT AUCTION, there’s much to choose from in the way of gift certificates, gift baskets, clothing, and famous local artist’s renderings, prints, and paintings. Bidding will open at 11 am and close at 5pm. Winning bids will be announced during dinner which will be served at 5:30 pm. During the tournament players’ spouses/and or family members are invited to the Silent Auction to bid in person between 1 pm and 4 pm. The Auction Committee will also have a dedicated cell phone answered by a live person to take bids over the phone if patrons are unable to attend. Tracy Barr with the Auction Committee has provided a list of the more popular auction donations listed below. Bids can be made to this number 512-364-1724 between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm on tournament day. |
Joe Garcia Memorial Golf Tournament Scheduled for June 7, 2021![]() The Joe Garcia Memorial Golf Tournament will be held June 7, 2021 at Vaaler Creek Golf Course in Blanco, TX. Tee time is 12PM. The tournament is a fundraiser sponsored by The Rotary Club of Blanco County and will include lunch, dinner, raffle, and a silent auction.
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Rotary Club Presented a Check to BISD Safety Patrol![]() The Rotary Club of Blanco County presented a check to the Blanco Independent School District Safety Patrol on October 30, 2020
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Hygiene Kits Delivered to Schools and Senior Living Areas![]() ![]() Sandy Switzer delivered hygiene kits to Blanco ISD schools while Dan Van Eynde delivered additional hygiene kits to the senior living areas.
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CoAPT, Rotary Partner to provide funds for vape detectors at BHS by Jack Twilley
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Rotary Club Gives Back Through "Helping Hands" Program![]() ![]() Rotary Club gives back through ‘helping hands’ program By Sandy Switzer Ladies of the Rotary Club of Blanco County safely spaced themselves and dressed in masks united to put hygiene kits together for several Blanco County outreach organizations. Sandy Switzer, who is the hygiene kit project team leader, and Connie Cox, Pat Clewell, Dixie Van Eynde, Jan Gass and Leta Garcia decided to prepare the kits for Blanco County as safely as possible. The organizations the Rotary Club delivers kits to are: Blanco ISD schools, Johnson City ISD schools, the Community Resource Center in Johnson City and senior living areas. |
Put and end to Polio and COVID-19 by Jerry GassFor those of us old enough to remember, hearing the word polio brings back major discomfort. It brings the vision of young children being crippled for life or crying in agony while living in iron lungs. It was certainly a time of celebration when the Salk vaccine was developed and then widely dispersed. Since that time, tremendous improvement has occurred in most countries of the world in eradicating polio. |
Africa Region Declared Polio-Free![]() It's with great pleasure to announce to you that the African region has just been certified wild poliovirus-free. Rotary members have played an invaluable role in the effort to rid the African region of wild polio. We should be proud of all the hard work that we’ve done to eliminate the wild poliovirus throughout Africa and in nearly every country in the world. |
Providing Supplies to CAPRA![]() Blanco County Rotary is helping supply needed materials as soap, washing supplies, tooth paste, many hygiene needs to community families. We are working with the Community Resource Center in Johnson City, Blanco who touches many lives in our community. Rotarian Patricia Clewell is presenting kits to the site Coordinator, Dawn CAPRA. |
The Rotary Club of Blanco County Awards Scholarships by Niki Lockwood![]() The Rotary Club of Blanco County recently announced the award of $1000 scholarships to four deserving high school seniors, two from Blanco High School and two from Johnson City High School. Each school will publicly announce the recipients at an appropriate ceremony of their choosing. The students will further their education at a university or technical training school. The students are: -Alvin Lopez and Dooley Smith, JCHS -Mitchell Barnett and Adelyn Seymour, BHS The Rotary Board evaluated twelve applicants, six from each school, all of whom were extremely qualified. The evaluation was based on their academic record, a personal letter to the board, extra-curricular actives, and community service. The board was impressed by the breadth and depth of each applicant’s credentials. All were outstanding students in their own right. They will be introduced to the membership at 7 p.m. on Monday, June 1 during a virtual club meeting. |