The Rotary of Macomb meets Tuesdays at noon at the First Presbyterian Church.
March 31, 2026 President Seth Minter convened the 39th meeting of the Rotary Club by sounding the Rotary Bell at the First Presbyterian Church in Macomb. The invocation was offered by Chris Adams, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, which was led by Wayne Laramie.
Wayne Laramie provided an overview of attendance: 28 members were present in person and 1 via Zoom representing 56% of the club’s membership. With the addition of 8 guests, total attendance reached 37. Our guest was Mark Rhea the speaker for the day.
Our guests were: Alison Jefferson, Carlee Jackson, Mya Hofmeister and Aiden Reynolds for the CEO program of McDonough County (our speakers), Todd Lamison visiting Rotarian from Quincy, and March Junior Rotarians: Addison Lawson and Z. Conley and Rotary Exchange Student Thea Granheim from Norway Nine Rotarians contributed “Happy Money” in honor of recent significant events. The 50/50 drawing was held; Emily Gillett (who won the draw last week) , had the opportunity to win $35 if she drew the 9 of Hearts but instead drew the 2 of Clubs, resulting in no winner for this round.
President Seth invited Blake Severs and Ryan Van Dolah (his sponsor) to come forward for the induction ceremony, formally welcoming Blake as the newest member of the Rotary Club of Macomb. Blake was officially inducted and received a warm welcome from club members upon becoming a Rotarian.
President Seth proceeded to share several announcements with the membership. Tickets for the Cubs-Cardinals game scheduled for May 30, 2026, remain available for purchase. Members interested in attending may contact Emily Gillett or Nick Estes for tickets. With Blake Severs’ induction, the club now has two of the eight new members required to qualify for a chance to host a district-sponsored social event.
Todd Lester then introduced Alison Jefferson, Facilitator of the McDonough County CEO program.
Alison has managed the program for more than six years, during which time 73 students have participated, including those currently enrolled. She noted that this is a significant commitment for participants, who come from various parts of the county and attend meetings every school day from 7:30 AM to 9:00 AM. Alison outlined program activities, including business site visits, mentorship opportunities, and the annual trade show held each May. The upcoming event is scheduled for May 5, 2026, at the SRC Outreach Center. Three current CEO participants also shared their experiences and presented their individual businesses: Carlee Jackson owns a baking enterprise, Mya Hofmeister operates a dog treat venture, and Aiden Reynolds manages a firewood business.
Ryan Van Dolah pins Blake Severs as a new member of the Rotary of Macomb Club.
McDonough County CEO Students present to the club members.
Alison concluded by emphasizing that the success of the program depends on its 30 investors and dedicated mentors. She underscored the importance of these commitments and encouraged anyone willing to contribute support and assistance to the program.
The meeting concluded with the recitation of the “Four Way Test” and the sounding of the Rotary bell, encouraging all members to make Rotary Part Of Their Life – and to “Unite For Good”.
Interested in speaking at Rotary or becoming a member, contact Tom Stites at [email protected].
