New times, new approach

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. I can’t really answer which one they are for you but I can say that they are certainly different times.

The Rotary Club of Tehachapi is taking a different approach to connecting with our members. One of the best things about Rotary, and our club in particular, is that we are a very social group. We start our meetings by mingling and shaking hands. This is such a strong tradition that should you forget or miss shaking anyone’s hand you could be issued a fine.

So how do we deal with our current situation of NO social gatherings. First, each board member has been asked to contact a number of members weekly to check in. This is being done by phone, text or email. We’re making sure that every member is feeling well, has food and anything else they need and just reaching out to continue to have contact with one another. Every week I send out an email update. In the past the updates have been to announce our speaker for the week and any projects or fundraisers coming up. Now the updates are about what other members are doing, how they are coping and any meaningful information about Rotary efforts and community needs.

More recently we started having meetings on Zoom. We are meeting during our regular Thursday at noon time and as we perfect these meetings, we hope to add speakers and other items of interest to keep us active, motivated and thriving.

Although we are being asked to “stay at home,” we are looking for ways and means to actively help. A number of Rotary members, including Rhonda Brady and Cathy Criger have been sewing face masks. They are being donated to hospitals, family and friends. Another of our members, Mindy Martindale, the owner of Bee Good to Yourself Essential Oil Training Center on Robinson Street, is selling her handmade masks for $5 and donating the money to charity.

We are doing our part to help our local restaurants survive by ordering take out. These are different times and times that mean we have to make adjustments. So, the Rotary Club of Tehachapi will continue to do Zoom meetings until we are able to gather. We look forward to the projects we do to better our community and wish each and every one of you good health and comfort. If you want more information about the Rotary Club of Tehachapi call Tim Trujillo, Membership Chair at (661) 821-0086.