Stories

The Peoria North Rotary Club is now accepting applications for the club's 2026 educational scholarships to be granted to a graduating Peoria Unified School District high school student.

The George and Willi Wheeler Scholarship is available to all students who currently attend a PUSD high school or Mountain Ridge High School.

The object of Rotary is to encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise. The scholarship will recognize high school students who demonstrate strong leadership skills that include opportunities to serve humanity.

The $3,000 Rotary scholarship may be used for any school-related payments such as tuition, books, software and/or equipment at any accredited college, university, vocational school, or certificate program.

The scholarship is named after two long-time club members: George and Willi Wheeler. George was a founding member of the Peoria North Rotary Club and a former Arizona Rotary District Governor. He passed away in 2022.

The Wheelers were strong supporters of education and instrumental in organizing a variety of club projects aimed at promoting literacy. The club recognizes Students of the Month at several Peoria high schools and has sponsored several book drives to benefit Peoria schools.

For over 10 years, a signature project of the club was to purchase and distribute dictionaries to third-grade students in the Peoria Unified School District.

“All during their dedicated careers in Rotary, the Wheelers traveled to many countries to distribute schoolbooks, administer the polio vaccine, provide computers to schools and bringing goodwill to underprivileged children,” said Darlene Eger, president of the Peoria North Rotary Club.

“Their dedication to helping children is the reason the George and Willi Scholarship was founded. It is Rotary’s desire to help as many students as possible to achieve an education and eventually hoping to eliminate poverty throughout the world.”

The deadline to apply for the 2026 scholarship is Dec. 31, 2025. Click here to download the application.

For additional information, email the club at desertdar06@gmail.com.

PNRC recognizes students of the month at Cactus HS

The Rotary Club of Peoria North recently recognized six Students of the Month at Cactus High School in the Peoria Unified School District. From left, Dave Evans, the club's youth chair, presents awards to Lily Eskew, Elijah McBrayer, Gracen Thomas, Lilley Martinez, Logan Affeldt and Kathryn Nuanez. Each student received a $150 stipend and notification of a wheelchair donated in their name to a disabled individual living in Mexico.

PNRC hosts annual Fashion Show Nov. 22 in SC West

The Rotary Club of Peoria North will hold its annual Fashion Show and Luncheon Nov. 22 at Briarwood Country Club in Sun City West.

The event is a fundraiser for high school scholarships sponsored by the club, as well as local and international service projects. The George and Willi Wheeler Scholarship is presented each year to graduating students in the Peoria Unified School District.

The event takes place 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. at the country club, 20800 N. 135^th Ave., Sun City West. Lunch is served at noon.

Club members and friends will serve as models for the event. Models will be showcasing clothing from Calle Rose Fashions and all items will be available for purchase at the event.

Tickets are $50 and may be purchased by contacting Sharon Jarnagin at 602-309-3910 or Margaret Fried at 732-552-7631.

All proceeds benefit the club’s charitable foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization supporting education, literacy, health and wellness, polio eradication and more.

For more information about the club, visit www.peorianorthrotary.net.

PNRC recognizes Peoria Students of the Month

The Peoria North Rotary Club recognized its Peoria Unified School District Students of the Month for August and September during a program held Sept. 19 at Centennial High School. Dave Evans, left, and Club President Darlene Eger, right, presented students were their awards, which includes a $150 stipend. From left, Dave Evans, Ellie Squire, from Peoria Flex; Jaydn Beach and Theo Benavidez from Ironwood High School; Kamryn Ybarra and Mia Robles from Kellis High School; Franchesca Gil and Lawrence Zarkpah from Peoria High School; Ethan Porter and Ryan Pulbratek from Centennial High School; Darlene Eger.

Peoria North Homecoming event featured on Channel 12

District Governor Jim Schmidt joined Peoria North Rotary Club President Darlene Eger and club Prom Closet Chair Sharon Jarnagin on Channel 12's 1 p.m. newscast Sept. 2 to talk about the Peoria North Rotary Club Prom Closet's special Homecoming event. The club will open its Prom Closet doors on two Saturdays in September to assist young women looking for homecoming dresses. The Prom Closet event will be open 9 a.m.-noon Sept. 6 and 13 at the Glendale System of Care Campus, 7677 W. Bethany Home Road, Glendale. Only dresses, and primarily short dresses will be available. There is no charge and reservations are not required. Rotary volunteers will be on hand to assist shoppers. The event is open only to high school students. The club will hold its traditional Prom Closet March 14-15 and March 21-22, 2026.

PNRC meets students at Ottawa University

The Rotary Clubs of Surprise /Sun City West and Peoria North Rotary are working on getting a Rotaract Club up and running at Ottawa University. Recently, Darlene Eger and Margaret Fried from the Peoria North Rotary Club together with Traci from the Surprise/Sun City West Club had a booth at the school's welcome back event for the students.

Club members lend hand to assist food pantry

Several members of the Peoria North Rotary Club pitched in recently to help a local West Valley food bank. On August 26 and 27, Shelly Clifford, Mike Clifford, Darlene Eger, and Margaret Fried helped out with the Saint Mary’s Food bank at the Glendale system of Care in Glendale. They were packing food boxes on Tuesday and then on Wednesday helped distribute food boxes out to the families. There were 369 households and 1,809 individuals served during that period. The campus of care is also the location of the club's annual prom closet event.

Peoria North Rotary Club earns RI Excellence Award

The Peoria North Rotary Club has received Rotary International's 2024-25 Club Excellence Award. The award is signed by RI's Club President Stephanie Urchick and RI's Foundation Chair Mark Maloney. The club was one of 14 Rotary clubs out of sixty+ District 5495 clubs to receive this prestigious award. The Rotary International Club Excellence Award recognizes Rotary clubs that achieve goals aligned with Rotary's strategic plan.

To earn the award, a club must be in good financial standing and achieve at least half of the goals they set in 2024-25 with all achievements reported by the end of the Rotary year. The goals focus on areas such as membership growth, service projects, contributions to The Rotary Foundation, and enhancing public image. Peoria North members extend congratulations to 2024-25 Club President John Calhoun for his leadership, to fellow members and sponsors for their support to achieve this exceptional Rotary honor.

Club to hold special Homecoming Dress giveaway in September

The Peoria North Rotary Club will open its Prom Closet doors on two Saturdays in September to assist young women looking for homecoming dresses.

The Prom Closet event will be open 9 a.m.-noon Sept. 6 and 13 at the Glendale System of Care Campus, 7677 W. Bethany Home Road, Glendale.

Only dresses, and primarily short dresses will be available. There is no charge and reservations are not required.

Rotary volunteers will be on hand to assist shoppers. The event is open only to high school students.

The club will hold its traditional Prom Closet March 14-15 and March 21-22, 2026.

PNRC backpacks help prepare students for new year!

Members of the Peoria North Rotary Club prepared over 100 backpacks to be donated to young children during its July 23 club meeting at Briarwood Country Club. Members stuffed a number of items -- pencils, erasers, Crayons, notebooks, scissors and paper -- in the backpacks that will be distributed at the Glendale Elementary School District's Campus of Care.

Welcome to our club's newest member!

Darlene Eger conducted her first meeting as the club's 2025-26 President on July 2 and marked the occasion by inducting our club's newest member Angie Thompson! Angie is familiar with Rotary as her father is a member of the Rotary Club of Sun Lakes. Welcome Angie!

Darlene Eger installed as club's 2025-26 President

Darlene Eger and her Board of Directors were officially installed during the club's annual "Commotion" ceremony held June

District Governor Michelle Holcomb and Assistant Governor Ron Klaphake were present to officially swear in Darlene and her officers. For Michelle, it was her last official duty as District 5495 2025-25 Governor.

During the meeting, Outgoing President John Calhoun presented "Rotarian of the Year" Awards to both Darlene and Margaret Fried.

Congratulations to Darlene and her board and best wishes for a GREAT 2025-26 Rotary Year!!

Peoria North members attend DG Jim Schmidt's installation

Several members of the Peoria North Rotary Club attended District Governor Jim Schmidt's installation ceremony held June 14 at the Mesa Country Club.

Jim is a member of the Rotary Club of Mesa West and will serve as the District 5495 Governor in 2025-26. Outgoing Governor Michelle Holcomb presented Jim with the traditional District Governor "World in his Hands" trophy and Jim gave Michelle the traditional "boot."

He will be followed by Joe Sweeney (2026-27) and Colleen Coons (2027-28). During the event, PNRC incoming President Darlene Eger presented a brief update the club's Prom Closet service project.

Rotary Vocational Fund of Arizona

I am pleased to formally notify you of the approval of Quinika Young

for a grant of $1,976 from The Rotary Vocational Fund of Arizona (TRVFA). These funds have been sent to the Star Canyon School of Nursing as tuition for vocational training in the Certified Nursing Assistant program with classes to start in the upcoming term.

Peoria North ranks #1 in District for giving to Polio Plus!

The Peoria North Rotary Club was named the District 5495 "Polio Plus Champion" for 2024-25 at the district's Conference of Clubs held May 1-3 at the We-Ko-Pa Resort and Casino in Fountain Hills.

This marks the second time the club has captured the honor. The club also finished first in 2021-22. So far during the 2024-25 Rotary year, the club had contributed $11,597 to Rotary International's campaign to eradicate polio worldwide. With 20 members, the club had the highest per-capita giving to Polio Plus -- $579.85 per member.

The trophy features Rotary Founder Paul Harris holding a young child who, thanks to Rotary, has abandoned his braces after being cured of the disease.

Peoria North Rotary Club recognizes PUSD Students of the Month

Peoria North Rotary Club recognized Peoria Unified School District "Students of the Month" for March and April during a ceremony held April 25 at Peoria High School.

Students from Peoria High School, Peoria Flex Academy, Ironwood High School and Centennial High School were recognized and presented with a $150 stipend as well as a certificate signifying the club has donated a wheelchair in their names to a disabled person living in Mexico.

In addition to honoring students at the four PUSD high schools, the club also recognizes in a separate ceremony Students of the Month at Mountain Ridge High School in Glendale.

During the April 25 event, the club for the first time also recognized top media arts students at each of the four PUSD schools. The award is co-sponsored by Huntington University's campus in Peoria.

Dave Evans, the club's Youth Services Chair, served as emcee for the event and introduced faculty from each high school to announce their honorees. Students of the Month honored April 25:

Peoria High School: Rylie Brooks, March, and Dawn Drake for April.

Peoria Flex Academy: Kitera Thomas, April.

Ironwood High School: Violet Luna, March, and Trinity Haver, April.

Centennial High School: Shane Harmon, March, and Jacob Sajan for April.

Receiving the Media Arts Student of the Semester Award were Julianna Ronfeldt, Ironwood High School; Gavin Niemeyer, Peoria Flex Academy; Brooklyn Koressel, Peoria High School; and Gerald Heck, Centennial High School.

"Our club is so happy and proud to recognize these students," said Dave Evans. "These students really represent the best of the best in the Peoria Unified School District."

Rotary is an international service organization with over 1.4 million members throughout the world.

The Peoria North Rotary Club is a strong supporter of education and literacy and has for many years provided dictionaries to all third-grade students in the district. Two years ago, the club launched its George and Willi Wheeler Scholarship, which provides financial assistance to PUSD students attending college after graduation from high school. For the past 15 years the club has also sponsored The Prom Closet, an annual event that provides formal wear free of charge to high school students attending their school prom.

The club meets 6 p.m. Wednesday at Briarwood Country Club in Sun City West. Prospective members are welcome to attend. Visit the club's website for additional information.

PNRC recognizes Students of the Quarter

Peoria North Rotary Club will present its final Peoria Unified School District Students of the Month awards on April 25th at Peoria High School. This will be the first time we will be presenting PNRC Huntington University Students of the Semester in Digital Media Arts. There could be as many as 12 students total rewarded for the two types of awards.

This picture is from our February 7 breakfast at the Peoria Flex Academy

PNRC thanked for its support of Rotary Rose Bowl Float!

Rotary Club of Peoria North:

Happy New Year! I hope this message finds you well! I wanted to take a moment to extend my heartfelt thanks for your invaluable participation in the Rotary Rose Parade Float Committee Ambassador program this past year. Your dedication and financial contribution made it possible for there to be a float and for Rotary International’s presence to be seen by over fifty million people in the United States and televised in 210 countries and territories.

I am thrilled to share that this year’s float was honored with the Volunteer Award! This achievement reflects the commitment and passion of everyone involved, and your efforts played a crucial role in making this happen.

Thank you once again for your support, enthusiasm, and teamwork. I look forward to seeing what we can accomplish together in the future!

Rotarily,

Dwight Perry

Ambassador Program Chair

PNRC holds annual Dinner Classic on March 1

Peoria North Rotary Club holds successful Fashion Show!

The Peoria North Rotary Club held its annual Fashion Show and Luncheon Nov. 22 at Briarwood Country Club in Sun City West.

Over 100 attendees enjoyed the latest fashions presented by Callee Rose and modeled by Rotarians and friends. In addition to the fashions, a number of door prizes were won by several lucky attendees!

President-elect Darlene Eger and Treasurer Sharon Jarnagin served as the emcees for the event, while Calee Rose took to the stage to describe the fashions worn by the models. Those in attendance were invited to browse and shop for clothing before and after the show, as Callee Rose brought along hundreds of additional pieces of clothing and accessories not modeled during the show.

Sharing the Rotary message with local chamber members

Peoria North Rotary Club’s newest members, Shelly and Mike Clifford, represented the club and talked about Rotary’s many programs at the Peoria Chamber of Commerce networking showcase held on Nov. 14.

PNRC brightens Thanksgiving for low-income families

The Rotary Club of Peoria North helped to make Thanksgiving more joyful for several low-income families in Peoria. The club donated 16 turkeys to the food pantry at Alta Loma Elementary School, a Title 1 school in south Peoria. The turkeys were provided by the school to low-income families in time for Thanksgiving. Past President Vernon Bridges, right, presented the turkeys to staff members at the school.

Applications now accepted for 2024 George and Willi Wheeler Scholarship

The Peoria North Rotary Club is now accepting applications for the club's 2024 educational scholarships to be granted to a graduating Peoria Unified School District high school student.

The 2024 George and Willi Wheeler Scholarship is available to all students who currently attend a PUSD high school or Mountain Ridge High School. This marks the second year the club has awarded the scholarship.

The $2,000 Rotary scholarship may be used for any school-related payments such as tuition, books, software and/or equipment at any accredited college, university, vocational school, or certificate program.

For the past 10 years, a signature project of the club is to purchase and distribute dictionaries to third-grade students in the Peoria Unified School District.

“All during their dedicated careers in Rotary, the Wheelers traveled to many countries to distribute schoolbooks, administer the polio vaccine, provide computers to schools and bringing goodwill to underprivileged children,” said John Calhoun, president of the Peoria North Rotary Club.

The deadline to apply for the 2024 scholarship is Dec. 31, 2024. Click here to download the application.

For additional information, email the club at peorianorthr@gmail.com.

Three PNRC members graduate from Rotary Leadership Institute

Three members of the Peoria North Rotary Club have completed all three Rotary Leadership Institute courses and have officially graduated from the Rotary program.

President John Calhoun, President-Elect Darlene Eger and President-Nominee Margaret Fried completed their third course and received their RLI diplomas at the RLI program conducted Nov. 16.

The Rotary Leadership Institute teaches Rotary basics and provides a better understanding of the Object of Rotary, The Rotary Foundation, Rotary grants and more.

Peoria North Rotary Club to distribute dictionaries to Peoria schools

Members of the Peoria North Rotary Club recently gathered to prepare dictionaries that will be distributed to third-grade students throughout the Peoria Unified School District.

The club has been distributing dictionaries to the Peoria Unified School District for more than 10 years. This year club members will distribute the books to 24 elementary schools in the PUSD.

Members met Oct. 26 at Erik Hayes's office to prepare the books. The Rotary Four-Way Test stickers are placed in every dictionary.

Club raises funds for World Polio Day!

Peoria North Rotary Club marked World Polio Day during its Oct. 23 meeting by hearing updates on Rotary's efforts to eradicate polio worldwide and raising funds for Rotary's End Polio Now.

Past District Governor Bret McKeand provided an update on Rotary's efforts to end polio and noted the wild polio virus exists now in only two countries: Pakistan and Afghanistan. Rotary, however, is not slowing down its efforts nor celebrating any victories and will continue its vigorous fight until polio is completely eradicated.

Club members and guests attending the meeting made generous contributions to End Polio Now. All contributions are matched 2 to 1 by the Gates Foundation, so the net contribution is significant.

A total of $720 was raised by the sale of Iron Lung Lager, a beer created especially for District 5495 as a means to raise funds for End Polio Now. In addition, all Happy Bucks generated during the meeting are also being donated to End Polio Now.

DG Michelle Holcomb visits Peoria North Rotary Club

District Governor Michelle Holcomb (2024-25) made her official visit to the Peoria North Rotary Club on Oct. 9. The meeting was held at Briarwood Country Club in Sun City West, the new meeting home for the club.

DG Michelle shared with the club her vision and goals for the year, and reminded club members that Rotary was initially created in 1905 as a business-supported organization. The idea back then was to enlist business owners in the effort to serve their communities. She suggested clubs strive to partner with local businesses and encourage them to become Rotarians.

During the meeting, DG Michelle presented Paul Harris Fellow recognition to several members. Peoria North Rotary Club is now an "All Paul Harris Club," which means every member is a Paul Harris Fellow.

Rotary Club of Surprise/SCW hosts military appreciation event

PNRC salutes Students of the Month

Peoria North Rotary Club recognized Peoria Unified School District Students of the Month for the third quarter during an event held Sept. 20 at Centennial High School.

Club Youth Chair Dave Evans introduced the students and presented certificates. Students from Centennial, Peoria, and Ironwood High Schools, as well as Peoria Flex Academy, were recognized.

The breakfast was provided by Centennial students.

Peoria North members attend Zone Institute

Three members of the Peoria North Rotary Club attended the Zone 26/27 Institute Sept. 12-15 in Spokane, Wash.

President-Elect Darlene Eger and Club Secretary Margaret Fried joined PDG Bret McKeand at the institute. Peoria North had the most members in attendance of any District 5495 Rotary club represented at the Zone Institute.

In addition to several peer-to-peer sessions and presentations by several Rotary speakers, the event culminated in the graduation of all 30 District Governors-Elect on Saturday evening -- including District 5495 Governor-elect Jim Schmidt.

Rotary International President-Elect Mario Cesar Martins de Camargo spoke at several of the sessions and was the featured speaker at the Saturday evening graduation ceremony.

A special Rotary Peace Pole was dedicated at Spokane's Rotary Fountain on Saturday afternoon. Darlene and Margaret joined RIPE Mario and several other Rotarians at the ceremony.

PNRC to host fall Homecoming 'Prom Closet'

Peoria North, Sun City clubs support Theater Works

Peoria North Rotary Club and the Sun City Rotary Club recently presented a donation of $8,000 to Theater Works in Peoria. The gift will be used to support a program that allows students from Title I schools to attend a performance at Theater Works. Members of the two clubs presented the gift prior to the start of the July 27 evening performance of "Grease." Afterward, the entire cast joined Rotarians in the lobby for a photo. Thank you -- and congratulations -- to Chris Hamby and the Theater Works team for all they do to bring great community theater to Peoria!

Club celebrates installation of 2024-25 PNRC Board

The Peoria North Rotary Club held its annual "Commotion" ceremony -- the installation of the new president and board -- June 19 at The Links Restaurant in Westbrook Village.

District Governor-Elect Michelle Holcomb attended and swore in incoming President John Calhoun and the club's 2024-25 Board of Directors.

After a brief program showcasing the life and career of President John, DGE Michelle officially swore in John as president of the club for 2024-25. In addition to John, the club board for the new year consists of: Steve Matthews, past president; Tammy Sabinsky, treasurer; Margaret Fried, secretary; Darlene Eger, president-elect; and Directors Al Dixon and Dave Evans.

Peoria North Rotary Club sets date for fall luncheon and fashion show

Prom Closet caps off record year!

Members of the club's Prom Closet Committee shared a recap of this year's activities at the club's June 5 meeting.

Committee Chairs Sharon Jarnagin and Gina Schmitz shared stories and photos from this year's Prom Closet, which took place during two weekends in April. A total of 614 students from over 108 Arizona high schools visited this year's Prom Closet. Rotarians from nearly a dozen District 5495 Rotary Clubs volunteered, including a Rotarian from the Kingman Route 66 Rotary Club!

Certificates of appreciation were presented to the owners of Mr. Formal -- who provide the majority of the young men's wear offered during the Prom Closet -- and the Glendale Elementary School District's System of Care Campus, where the Prom Closet is held each year.

Club members attend District 5495 Conference in Rocky Point!

Several members of the Peoria North Rotary Club traveled to Rocky Point May 2-5 to attend the 2024 District 5495 Conference. The conference was the district's first-ever "joint conference." The conference was shared with District 4100 in Mexico. Over 150 Rotarians from District 5495 attended the event, including from Peoria North: John and Cathy Calhoun, Bret and Michelle McKeand, Darlene Eger and Margaret Fried.

PNRC honors 'Students of the Month' at May 15 meeting

Peoria North Rotary Club honored its Students of the Month from Mountain Ridge High School during the club's May 15 meeting. President-elect John Calhoun and Youth Services Chair Darlen Eger presented awards to the students.

Helping Others Together presents talk to PNRC

Members of the Helping Others Together Community Foundation – or HOT as they like to call themselves – presented a talk at the club’s May 8 meeting. Thanking them for an educational and inspirational talk are Past President Bret McKeand, left, and Past President Gary Connelly. From left, Bret, Carrie Rosencrans, board member for HOT, Gary and Beth McGee, president of HOT.

PNRC salutes top students from 4 Peoria high schools

Peoria North Rotary Club recognized its "Students of the Month" during a ceremony held April 26 at Peoria High School.

Students were presented with a financial stipend, and notification of a wheelchair presented in their name to a disabled citizen in Mexico.

From left, Margaret Fried (PNRC secretary), PNRC member Al Dixon, Darlene Eger (PNRC youth chair), Janice (Rose) Reyes from Peoria Flex High School, Kennedy Jennings of Ironwood High School, Kylie Gaboriault and Boaz Scwartz from Centennial High School, Isabela Chacon and Kyle Schoenbauer from Peoria High School, and Dave Evans, PNRC member.

The club each quarter recognizes students of the month from these four high schools, as well as Mountain Ridge High School in Glendale.

PNRC welcomes its newest member: Michele Malo

Peoria North Rotary Club welcomed its newest member at the club's April 24 meeting. Michele Malo, executive director at Briarwood Country Club, was inducted into the club by Past President Jason Braunstein. Congratulation and welcome Michele!

Prom Closet continues April 13-14

Peoria North Rotary Club continues its 2024 Prom Closet service project this weekend, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday, April 13-14.

The club served over 300 students during the first weekend, April 6-7. The project was featured on two local newscasts -- Channel 10 and Channel 3. Click the links below to view the segments.

https://www.facebook.com/GinaMaravillaTV/videos/1591703144950270

Check out a preview of this weekend's Prom Closet created by the friendly folks at Channel 10 in Phoenix! https://www.fox10phoenix.com/video/1436428

Peoria North awards first two George and Willi Wheeler Scholarships

The Peoria North Rotary Club has awarded educational scholarships to two graduating Peoria Unified School District high school students.

Isabella Perry and Leah Bucher each received a $2,000 George and Willi Wheeler Scholarship during a recent club meeting. Ms. Perry attends Mountain Ridge High School and Ms. Bucher attends Peoria High School.

The George and Willi Wheeler Scholarship was created in 2023 and the two students are the first recipients. The scholarship is available to all students who currently attend a PUSD high school or Mountain Ridge High School.

The object of Rotary is to encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise. The scholarship recognizes high school students who demonstrate strong leadership skills that include opportunities to serve humanity.

The Rotary scholarship may be used for any school-related payments such as tuition, books, software and/or equipment at any accredited college, university, vocational school, or certificate program.

For the past 10 years, a signature project of the club is to purchase and distribute dictionaries to every third-grade student in the Peoria Unified School District.

“All during their dedicated careers in Rotary, the Wheelers traveled to many countries to distribute schoolbooks, administer the polio vaccine, provide computers to schools and bringing goodwill to underprivileged children,” said Steve Matthews, president of the Peoria North Rotary Club.

The club recently announced that it will award three scholarships in 2025. The application can be found at www.peorianorthrotary.net.

For additional information, email the club at peorianorthr@gmail.com.

PNRC supports Operation Enduring Gratitude

Representatives from Operation Enduring Gratitude spoke to the club on March 27. The organization provides home services to veterans in need. For information about the nonprofit, visit www.operationenduringgratitude.org.

PNRC prepares for 2024 Prom Closet Service Project

The Peoria North Rotary Club is gearing up once again for its annual Prom Closet, the club's signature community service project.

Rotarians from throughout the district will join Peoria North to assist with this year's Prom Closet, scheduled for April 6-7 and April 13-14. The event on April 13 will serve as our District 5495's official kick-off to Arizona Rotary Week of Service.

The Prom Closet will be held the Glendale System of Care Campus, 7677 W. Bethany Home Road, Glendale.

The club will hold its April 3 club meeting at the Glendale System of Care Campus. The meeting will include an update on this year's event and feature a short volunteer orientation. Volunteers and Rotarians from other West Valley Rotary and Rotaract Clubs have been invited to join us for the meeting. Pizza and refreshments will be provided.

Club members and volunteers are invited to arrive earlier that day to assist with set-up in the gymnasium for the April 6-7 Prom Closet. Set-up will begin at 4 p.m.

We are looking for volunteers. The Prom Closet’s popularity has increased each year so we need to increase our number of volunteers. We would like 40 volunteers for each session on the weekend so it will take 40 to 80 people a day to make it run smoothly. Gather a group and serve together.

Click here to sign-up to volunteer for the event

Union Academy Interact Club creates quilt for PNRC dinner classic

A quilt created by the Interact Club of Union Academy High School in Monroe, N.C., was donated to the Peoria North Rotary Club and auctioned at the club's annual dinner classic on Feb. 17.

The Interact Club is a fast-growing and highly successful Interact Club led by President Steve and Maria Matthews's granddaughter, Marissa Matthews. Marissa visited the club via Zoom recently and shared information about her Interact Club.

Club welcomes its two newest members!

Peoria North Rotary Club welcomes its two newest members: Gilbert Fornaciari and Ann Green. President Steve recently presented them with their membership pins and certificates. Gil was sponsored by John Calhoun, while Ann's sponsor was Margaret Fried.

Second quarter Students of the Month honored

Mountain Ridge High School Students of the Month for October, November and December were recognized during a recent club meeting. Youth Services Chair Darlene Eger presented each student with a financial gift as well as a certificate showing a wheelchair has been donated in their name to a disabled person in Mexico.

District Governor Kevin Pitts makes official club visit

District 5495 Governor Kevin Pitts made his official club visit on Jan. 17, 2024 at the Links Restaurant. DG Kevin shared his Rotary experiences and explained how involvement in Rotary provides opportunities for Rotarians to impact their communities and change the world.

In honor of Kevin's visit, the Peoria North Rotary Club announced that $500 would be donated in Kevin's name to The Rotary Foundation's annual fund.

Peoria North hosts monthly food drive Jan. 17

Peoria North Rotary Club launches educational scholarship

The Peoria North Rotary Club has launched its first-ever educational scholarship to be granted to a graduating Peoria Unified School District high school student.

The George and Willi Wheeler Scholarship will be presented for the first time in 2024. The scholarship is available to all students who currently attend a PUSD high school or Mountain Ridge High School.

The Rotary scholarship may be used for any school-related payments such as tuition, books, software and/or equipment at any accredited college, university, vocational school, or certificate program.

For the past 10 years, a signature project of the club is to purchase and distribute dictionaries to every third-grade student in the Peoria Unified School District.

“All during their dedicated careers in Rotary, the Wheelers traveled to many countries to distribute schoolbooks, administer the polio vaccine, provide computers to schools and bringing goodwill to underprivileged children,” said Steve Matthews, president of the Peoria North Rotary Club.

The deadline to apply for the 2024 scholarship is Jan. 31, 2024. The application can be found at www.peorianorthrotary.net.

For additional information, email the club at peorianorthr@gmail.com.

PNRC provides Christmas gifts to local families

Peoria North Rotary Club once again "adopted" families whose children attend Alta Loma Elementary School in Peoria. Club members purchased toys, clothing and other items for children ages 4-14 to help spread holiday cheer during the holidays. Past President Jason Braunstein delivered the donations to the school several days before Christmas.

Club participates in 2023 Wreaths Across America

The Peoria North Rotary Club once again supported Wreaths Across America, a national campaign that aims to place a wreath on the grave of every United State veteran. In Arizona, the club purchased and placed wreaths on the National Veterans Cemetery in North Phoenix.

Club members joined literally thousands of other volunteers at the cemetery on Dec. 16 to take part in a ceremony honoring our nation's veterans, and to lay wreaths on the graves. According Lee Smith of Wreaths Across America, 2023 was the most successful and memorable National Wreaths Across America Day in history at Arizona National Cemetery. In all, 18,000 wreaths were placed on graves, covering nearly 25% of the graves at the cemetery.

Volunteers are needed for Wreath Retirement Day on Jan 6, 2024 at 9:00 am.

The event details are posted on the FB WAA page. A record number of wreaths will require a record number of volunteers to honorably retire the wreaths. Carts, wagons, poles and other carry devices are allowed and encouraged to expedite the cleanup process.

A short Wreath Retirement Ceremony and briefing will be held at 9:00 am in the front of the stage. Park near the visitor center in the center of the cemetery.

Volunteers will not be picking up anything other than the live WAA wreaths. All other items will be left in place. Gloves and water are recommended.

Services planned for Susan Fitzgerald

The club is sad to announce the passing of our friend, Susan Fitzgerald, the wife of Past District Governor Chuck Fitzgerald.

Chuck is a current member of The Rotary Club of Peoria North, and Susan was a long-time member of The Rotary Club of Peoria.

Susan Piattoni Fitzgerald, 70, died on December 8, 2023, after a four-year battle with breast cancer. With family members by her side, she passed into glory in her home in Peoria, Arizona.

Born in Melrose Park, Illinois, on March 10, 1953, she was the daughter of Fred and Mary Piattoni. She graduated from Northern Illinois University with a degree in Education. She worked in technology for 25 years before starting her own marketing company in 2000.

Susan was a member of Vineyard Church North Phoenix, the Peoria Rotary Club, Executive Women International, and the Northwest Women’s Network. She enjoyed cooking, hiking, dogs, and, most of all, serving others. She is remembered as a peacemaker who loved Jesus and loved people.

She is survived by her husband of thirty-one years, Chuck Fitzgerald, her mother, Mary Piattoni, sister Lauren (Tom) Piattoni, brothers Gary and Louie Piattoni; children Beth (Jody) Webb, Andy (Benita) Fitzgerald, Tricia (Darrell) Free; grandchildren AJ, Wyatt, Alyssa, Sarah, Justin, Carter, Marley, Ian; nephews Adam Piattoni-Kapaun, Marcus and Luca Piattoni. Her father, Fred Piattoni, predeceased her.

Susan’s funeral service will be held on Friday, December 29, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at Vineyard Church North Phoenix, 6250 W. Peoria Avenue in Glendale, Arizona. A private graveside service will immediately follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations for supporting the vulnerable in the community may be made to Vineyard Community Charities, 6250 West Peoria Avenue, Glendale, Arizona 85302, or at vccharities.org.

For additional information, visit:

https://www.heritagefuneralchapels.com/obituaries/Susan-Ann-Fitzgerald?obId=30100211

'Mardi Gras' Dinner Classic planned for Feb. 17, 2024

PNRC recognizes Students of the Month

Peoria North Rotary Club has recognized Students of the Month at five area high schools.

Above, during a ceremony held Nov. 17 at Ironwood High School, students from four high schools were honored. From left, Darlene Eger, club Youth Chair; Maryam Gorgees and Jaydee Gelleos from Peoria High School; Ivy Nguyen and Luis Morales from Peoria Flex HS; Kenzie Frey and Te'Ana Moore from Centennial; Noah Gifft and Kenneth Armstrong from Ironwood; PNRC member Dave Evans.

During the club's Nov. 15 meeting, two students from Mountain Ridge High School were recognized at Students of the Month. From left, Liesa Shepherd (September), Isabella Perry (October). Paige Keaton, August student of the month, was unable to attend.

Congratulations DGE Michelle Holcomb!

District 5495 Governor-elect Michelle Holcomb was celebrated during the Saturday evening Gala Dinner at this year's Zone 26/27 Institute held Nov. 11 in San Diego. PNRC members Bret McKeand, Darlene Eger and Margaret Fried were on hand to support Michelle, who will take over as D5495 Governor on July 1, 2024.

PNRC members attend Zone Institute in San Diego

Three members of the Peoria North Rotary Club attended the recent Zone 26/27 Institute in San Diego, and in the process had the opportunity to meet and visit with Rotary International President-Elect Stephanie Urchick.

PDG Bret McKeand, Darlene Eger and Margaret Fried attended the institute. For Darlene and Margaret, it was their first institute. This year's Zone Institute was held Nov. 10-12 at the Town & Country Resort in San Diego.

The institute kicked off earlier in the week with several days of training specifically for the district governors-elect and district governors-nominee for the 30 districts that make up Rotary Zones 26 and 27. The highlight of the institute is a gala on Saturday, which features the graduation and celebration of all 30 district governors-elect. Michelle Holcomb is district governor-elect and will serve as district governor in 2024-25.

Stephanie Urchick will be Rotary International's second-ever female president. She will serve as RI President in 2024-25. She is a member of the Rotary Club of McMurray, Pennsylvania.

Club participates in 2023 Mexico-USA Friendship Conference

Peoria North Rotary Club was well represented at the 2023 Mexico-USA Friendship Conference held Oct. 26-29 in Prescott. Club members PDG Sara Jane Feldman and PDG Bret McKeand attended the conference and committed club support to four international projects.

The club committed $500 to four individual projects, for a total commitment of $2,000. Fourteen projects were presented during the conference, with seven projects walking away fully funded.

During the conference, Sara Jane Feldman and her late husband, PDG Marty, were recognized for their role in formation and early success of the conference two decades ago.

Photos and a full report on the projects funded can be found on the district website, as well as copies of the presentations for each made at the conference. Click HERE.

Darlene, Margaret describe trip to Rotary International Convention

PNRC members Darlene Eger and Margaret Fried shared photos and stories of their trip this past May to Melbourne, Australia to attend the 2023 Rotary International Convention. The convention was the first Rotary convention either of them had attended. They shared stories of their visits to historic places in Australia, and photos of the convention -- including the House of Friendship, breakout sessions and general sessions. The stories of Rotary projects and the opportunity to meet Rotarians from throughout the world was an adventure both of them found heartwarming and inspirational. They brought back gifts for the members and presented President Steve with an official Rotary convention banner.

Second annual fashion show fundraiser a huge success!

Peoria North Rotary Club held its second annual fashion show fundraiser Oct. 18 at Palmbrook Country Club. Attendees enjoyed the latest fashions from Calle Rose -- all modeled by Rotarians and spouses. See photos from the event in a specially created photo album. Click here.

PNRC joins Sun City Rotary Club in support of Theater Works

The Rotary Club of Peoria North joined the Rotary Club of Sun City in presenting a combined grant to Theater Works, the popular and widely acclaimed community theater located at the Peoria Performing Arts Center in downtown Peoria. The two clubs donated a total of $7,000 to Theater Works, to be used to support youth education programs at the theater. Presenting the grant to Theater Works at a recent Sun City Rotary Club meeting were, from left, Chris Hamby, C.W. McMillin Executive Director of Theater Works, Paul Pederson, director of patron development, PNRC Club President Steve Matthews, Sun City Rotary Club President Phil Ladd, and Sun City Rotary Club Treasurer Mike Zongolowicz.

PNRC begins 2023 distribution of school dictionaries

The Peoria North Rotary Club gathered recently to prepare thousands of dictionaries to be distributed to every third-grade student in the Peoria Unified School District. Club members placed decals in each dictionary that promotes the Rotary Four-Way Test, and then prepared boxes for distribution to each school. The dictionary project -- an annual project of the club for over 10 years -- is partially funded by a district grant.

PNRC once again to support Wreaths Across America

Help Peoria North Rotary Club observe National Wreaths Across America Day on Dec. 16, 2023, by honoring our nation’s veterans.

Once again, our club is participating in National Wreaths Across America Day and members can help by purchasing a wreath that will be placed on a veteran’s grave at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona.

Wreaths may be purchased online, and $5 of every wreath purchased is returned to the club. Visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/AZ0172P to purchase a wreath.

Club members are also invited to volunteer on Dec. 16 to place the wreaths on the graves of Arizona veterans. Contact Jason with additional questions.

Here is the updated timeline for Saturday Dec. 16th, 2023 at Arizona National Cemetery:

8:00am - Gates Open
8:30am - Wreath Escort Arrives
10:00am - Ceremony starts (Wreath Placement following the Ceremony)

Family and Friends attending to place wreaths for loved ones will have a special wreath pick-up area this year. We have a team of volunteers dedicated to this very special mission for 2023!

**We have designated Handicap and Family Only parking areas inside the cemetery. Parking Volunteers will direct you accordingly.

**If you are interested in volunteering to assist with parking or wreath arrival, please send me an email. lee@arizonawaa.org.

Wreath Retirement Day will be Saturday Jan. 6th, 2024 at 9:00am. More volunteers are always appreciated!

Please send me a direct email at: lee@arizonawaa.org for any issues ordering or questions.

Thank you very much for supporting AZNMCP - National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona. Please click More Information for more about our mission to Remember, Honor, and Teach.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving! Hoping your Thanksgiving is filled with blessings and joy!

Lee Smith
AZNMCP - National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona

Tune into Wreaths Across America Radio to hear informational and inspiring content about members of the U.S. armed forces, their families, military veterans, and volunteers throughout the country and overseas who support the mission to REMEMBER, HONOR, and TEACH.

Listen LIVE to Wreaths Across America Radio

Club welcomes two new members on Sept. 28

The Peoria North Rotary Club welcomed two new members during its Sept. 28 club meeting. Transferring to Peoria North from the Rotary Club of Peoria are Past District Governor Chuck Fitzgerald and Kathleen Hurley. Past President Jason Braunstein conducted the club meeting and presented the certificates to Chuck and Kathleen.

Club welcomes Eric and Dave as our newest members!

President Steve Matthews officially welcomed Dave Evans and Eric Hayes as Peoria North Rotary Club's newest members during our Sept. 20 club meeting. Both are long-time Rotarians and recently moved over to Peoria North from The Rotary Club of Peoria, which recently closed. Eric has served as the Peoria club's president for the past three years. The two are among several Peoria club members who are transferring to Peoria North.

Club recognizes Peoria Students of the Month

The club recognized its first Peoria Unified School District Students of the Month for the new school year during a special ceremony held Sept. 22 in the cafeteria at Centennial High School. Club President Steve Matthews and member Dave Evans presented the students with a $100 stipend and notice of a wheelchair to be presented in their name to a disabled citizen in Mexico. From left: Vincent Lageschulte and Rachel Kohm from Ironwood High School; Kage Dean from Peoria Flex High School; Brian Liang and Lian Mitchell from Centennial High School; Julius Gerre and Priscilla Nunez from Peoria High School.

Organization provides support to Peoria Police

Ric Harrison was our guest speaker at the Sept. 13 meeting. Ric volunteers with a nonprofit organization that works with the Peoria Police Department to enhance community relations and provides support for the department by purchasing supplies and needed equipment. Joanna Conde, the club's program chair, thanked Mr. Harrison for his presentation and shared a book that will be donated in his name to a local library.

Glendale Elementary School District recognizes The Prom Closet

The Glendale Elementary School District each month recognizes a business or organization in the community for its strong support of students and for September, the district recognized Peoria North Rotary Club's Prom Closet community service project. A district official surprised members of The Prom Closet Planning Committee during its September meeting and presented the group with a certificate of thanks.

The GESD "Champion of Our Students" certificate reads: "Thank you for all your hard work and dedication. We are so grateful to be part of this amazing program. Thank for bringing so much joy to our students and community.

The Prom Closet Committee consists of, from left, Sandra Eng, Maura Gill-Millette, Sharon Jarnagin, Bret McKeand and Gina Schmitz. The 2024 Prom Closet is scheduled for the first two weekends of April 2024 at the Glendale System of Care Center, 7677 W. Bethany Home Road, Glendale. For information, visit thepromcloset.com.

West Valley Rotaract hosts rock-painting party

Clubs learns about fostering animals

Kathleen Hurley spoke to the club on Aug. 16 and shared with the club her experiences with fostering injured animals and nursing them back to good health so they can be adopted. Kathleen works with a nonprofit fostering organization in Peoria and she explained how volunteering to help foster animals can be a fun and very rewarding experience. Programs chair Joanna Conde thanked Kathleen for speaking to the club by presenting her with a book that will be donated in her name to a local school library.

Steve Matthews installed at PNRC president for 2023-24

The Peoria North Rotary Club celebrated the start of its new year with its annual "Commotion" program July 12 and the passing of the presidential gavel to Steve Matthews, who will serve as the club’s president in 2023-24.

Mr. Matthews takes over as president from Vernon Bridges, who served as club president in 2022-23.

Rotary District 5495 Governor Kevin Pitts conducted the installation ceremony and swore in Mr. Matthews and the club’s board for 2022-23.

“Everything good that Rotary is able to accomplish throughout the world begins right here at the club level,” said Mr. Pitts.

Others serving on the Peoria North Rotary Club board this year include Tammy Sabinsky, treasurer; Margaret Fried, secretary and Vernon Bridges, immediate past president.

Club chairs include Darlene Eger, youth services chair; Bret McKeand, public image and Prom Closet chair; Joanna Conde, membership chair; Jason Braunstein, community service chair.

Mr. Matthews congratulated club members on their commitment to community service and encouraged them to do even more in the new year.

“You want a wonderful experience? Visit a Rotary project,” said Mr. Matthews.

“Whether it is giving out dictionaries to third graders, visiting a newly dug water well in Mexico, helping to build housing on the Navajo reservation or making beds for children that today sleep on floors. Every one of these and countless thousands of other projects put smiles on faces and builds camaraderie among all people without exceptions.”

The club supports and participates in service projects in the community and throughout the world, including annually providing dictionaries for every third-grade student in the Peoria Unified School District. The club’s signature service project is The Prom Closet, which provides free formal attire each spring to high school students attending their school proms.

The club's annual installation program -- or "Commotion" as we like to call it -- is a fun event that celebrates our "family" of Rotary.

To kick off the program, Past President Vern, President Steve and DG Kevin Pitts competed in a friendly game of "Rotary Jeopardy." Questions tested their knowledge of Rotary, and the club donated a total of $500 to End Polio Now in each contestant's name.

The club also celebrated a great 2022-23 year and thanked outgoing President Vern for his leadership and accomplishments.

Club donates $5k to provide clean water to Navajo Nation

The Peoria North Rotary Club has donated $5,000 to the Clear Water Project to help that organization's efforts to connect residents living on the Navajo Reservation to a nearby water source.

The donation was made at the club's June 28 meeting. President Vernon Bridges presented a check to Richard Pered and Brian Marshall of the Clear Water Project .

Brian is the CEO/president of the project, while Richard is the secretary.

The project works with local churches on the reservation to help connect residential homes to a nearby well. Once connected to a water source, the nonprofit organization assists with plumbing needs and providing hot-water heaters.

According to Richard Pered, churches on the reservation are more apt to be located near a functioning water well and already connected. In many cases, residents travel to the churches weekly to collect water to sustain them throughout the week. The Clear Water Project aims to connect those nearby homes to the church's water source.

Mr. Pered says it costs approximately $30,000 to connect a home to a nearby functioning well.

New district governor to install 2023-24 PNRC Board

Kevin Pitts, District 5495 Governor for 2023-24, will take part in Peoria North Rotary Club's annual "Commotion" program and officially swear in our new board for 2023-24.

Commotion takes place July 12 at our normal meeting place, The Links Restaurant in Westbrook Village. Members are asked to arrive promptly at 5:30 p.m. to order their meal. The club meeting will start promptly at 6 p.m. with a special program to celebrate our new president -- Steve Matthews -- and thank outgoing President Vernon Bridges for his time at the helm.

Be prepared for a meeting that could go past 7 p.m. And members are asked to bring lots of "Happy Bucks" as we have prepared a special game in honor of Commotion that will "quiz" our members' knowledge of Rotary. Incorrect answers will cost you a Happy Dollar, with all money raised that evening going to Rotary's End Polio Now.

This is a great opportunity to invite a guest who might be interested in joining our "People of Action" club!

Club hears update on Crutches 4 Africa

The club learned about District 5495 Interact's signature international service project during its June 7 meeting.

Crutches 4 Africa is a project supported by our Interact district for several years. Throughout the year, Interactors collect mobility devices -- crutches, canes, wheelchairs, scooters and more -- and store them in two units here in the Valley of the Sun (one in the west valley and one in the east valley). Each July, the district sends a team of Interactors along with several Rotarian advisors to Kenya and Mexico to distribute the devices to disabled citizens in those countries.

Dan Coons, chair of this year's trip to Africa, and Edgar Martinez, an Interactor who participated in last year's trip to Africa, spoke to our club on June 7 and told of their experiences distributing the devices and personally "changing the lives" of recipients.

This year, 11 students and four adult advisors will be traveling to Africa and Mexico in July. Working with local Rotary and Rotaract clubs in those countries, the team will distribute thousands of mobility devices.

Contributions are needed to help defray the cost of shipping items and sending the students to both countries. The adult Rotarians pay their own way and the students must pay a portion of the expenses. Clubs are asked to support the effort as well.

Individuals who would like to contribute, can scan the QR code below to make an online donation with your credit card:

Students of the Month recognized

Peoria North Rotary Club recognized its Students of the Month for the second quarter during the club's May 24 meeting. The students attend Mountain Ridge High School. From left, Russell Kennedy, a senior (April); Club President Vernon Bridges and Alvira Hoffman, a freshman (May). Not pictured is March winner Priya List. Each student received a $250 award and a certificate signifying that a wheelchair has been donated in their name to a disabled person in Mexico.

Second annual Fashion Show planned Oct. 18

Club offers grant to West Valley Rotaract Club

The West Valley Rotaract Club, one of our district's newest clubs, was welcomed into the world of Rotary during the April 19 meeting of the Peoria North Rotary Club.

Peoria North helped sponsor the new club and presented it with a $500 donation to help with organizational costs.

Jason Braunstein, chair of the PNRC Foundation, presented the donation to Jessica Vaupel, president of the West Valley Rotaract Club.

PNRC members join 'Week of Service' launch project

Several members of the Peoria North Rotary Club joined dozens of other District 5495 Rotarians on Saturday, April 15, to kick off "Arizona Rotary Week of Service" with a special project to benefit Sleep in Heavenly Peace.

Rotarians joined volunteers from several other organizations to build beds for children living in homeless shelters and in foster care. The special kick-off event took place in the parking lot of American Furniture Warehouse in Glendale.

A total of 100 beds were built from scratch. Volunteers assisted with cutting the boards, sanding, assembly, staining and more.

District Governor Larry Horton thanked Rotarians who participated.

"Imagine a child who woke up this morning sleeping on the floor actually going to sleep tonight in the comfort of a bed. That's pretty powerful," said Larry.

PNRC members who participated included President Vern Bridges, Bret McKeand, Donnis Deever, Jason Braunstein and Al Dixon.

Check out a live broadcast of the event on Channel 10, Fox news.

PNRC welcomes our newest member: Joanna Conde!

Joanna Conde is our newest member to be inducted into the Peoria North Rotary Club.

Joanna was welcomed at a recent meeting, and sworn in by Assistant Governor Lu Rotundo and President-Elect Steve Matthews.

Welcome to the club, Joanna!

Club on pace to serve record number of students in Prom Closet!

After its first three days of the 2023 Prom Closet, the Peoria North Rotary Club has already served over 200 students from 69 schools throughout Arizona, including nearly 30 students for a school for the deaf.

Young boys and girls throughout the state will be able to attend their high school prom this spring without having to spend a single penny on purchasing needed attire thanks to the efforts of Arizona Rotarians.

This year’s Prom Closet continues for its final weekend, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. April 1-2.

The event takes place at the Glendale System of Care Center, 7677 W. Bethany Home Road, in Glendale.

Several local TV stations have visited the Prom Closet and filmed segments for broadcast. View two segments featured on Channel 10 HERE.

All high school teens are invited. There are no financial requirements and no application to be completed. All items are available at absolutely no cost.

The Prom Closet has thousands of formal prom dresses to choose from, as well as shoes and accessories. In addition to women’s clothing and accessories, items available to men include shirts, slacks and ties.

The program was initially created 12 years ago by Mary Ann Baker, a founding member and past president of the Peoria North Rotary Club. The Peoria club assumed total oversight of The Prom Closet six years ago and is supported by volunteer Rotarians from Sun City, Glendale, Surprise and Phoenix.

“It’s really grown into a community-wide project,” said Donnis Deever, a member of Peoria North Rotary Club and chair of this year’s project.

“Not only do we have Rotarians from throughout the Valley, but we have many other residents who have joined on as volunteers – many of whom felt the impact of the program when their sons or daughters visited The Prom Closet in the past.”

Peoria North Rotary Club hosts Prom Closet in March/April

Beginning at the end of March and continuing the first weekend in April, The Prom Closet – a project spearheaded by the Peoria North Rotary Club -- will provide formal prom attire to boys and girls at absolutely no charge.

This year’s Prom Closet takes place 9 a.m.-2 p.m. March 25-26 and April 1-2.

The event takes place at the Glendale System of Care Center, 7677 W. Bethany Home Road, in Glendale.

All high school teens are invited. There are no financial requirements and no application to be completed. All items are available at absolutely no cost.

Peoria North Rotary Club launches Postcards in Space

Peoria North Rotary Club is sponsoring a unique project this year meant to interest students in the world of space exploration.

As opportunities for innovation in the space economy continue to grow, it's important our students learn about these opportunities and begin training for future possibilities.

The Postcards in Space program requires each sixth-grade class in the Peoria Unified School District to design a new technology that could be used to help meet the needs of people working or living in space.

Students are asked to brainstorm and create ideas, then sketch those ideas on postcards distributed to the schools by the Peoria North club.

Club members will pick up the postcards later this month and send to the Club for the Future, where they will be sent to space and back on a Blue Origin New Shepard rocket.

The club's Postcards in Space project is funded by a District Designated Grant.

Photo: Peoria North Rotary Club President-Elect Steve Matthews distributes Postcards in Space packets to a local school.

PNRC recognizes students of the month

Peoria North Rotary Club recognized its most recent Students of the Month at its Feb. 22 meeting. Both students are from Mountain Ridge High School. Tegan Bernard, a senior, was the club's Student of the Month for January, while Apramey Akkiraju, a junior, is the February recipient. From left, Darlene Eger, the club's Youth chair, Tegan, Apramey and Club President Vernon Bridges.

PNRC presents Paul Harris Fellow to Bobby Freeman

Peoria North Rotary Club honored Arizona Diamondbacks organist Bobby Freeman with its highest honor, a Paul Harris Fellow, during the club's annual Wine Classic Fundraiser held Feb. 11 in Peoria. The honor recognizes all of Bobby's contributions over the years to our club, as well as all he has done to help others through his work with the Diamondbacks Foundation. Club President Vernon Bridges and District Governor Larry Horton presented the award to Bobby and Charlene Freeman.

Peoria North Prom Closet to open in March and April

Club awards Paul Harris Fellows to five members

The Rotary Club of Peoria North recently recognized club members for their support of the The Rotary Foundation by presenting them with Paul Harris Fellows.

Four of the members received their very first Paul Harris recognition, while Lou Rotundo received a Paul Harris plus-four pin.

Paul Harris Fellows recognize a Rotarian who has contributed $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation. Earning their first Paul Harris Fellow certificates and pins were Darlen Eger, Margaret Fried, Sybil Ihrig and Sharon Jarnagin.

Peoria North is one of the district's strongest supporters of The Rotary Foundation and Rotary's End Polio Now campaign. The club last year earned the district's top honor for per-captia contributions made to the End Polio Now campaign. Peoria North reported the highest contributions per capita among the district's 65 clubs.

PNRC sets Feb. 11, 2023 as date for annual Wine Classic

Peoria North welcomes newest member: Jeanne Hough

Jeanne Hough was recently welcomed as the newest member of the Rotary Club of Peoria North. President Vernon Bridges, left, and Assistant Governor Lou Rotundo present Jeanne her official Rotary membership packet and Rotary pin. Jeanne is also President Verne's mother-in-law.

PNRC earns recognition from U.S. Congress

Peoria North Rotary Club received a Certificate of Appreciation from U.S. Congresswoman Debbie Lesko in recognition of the club's service to the community. The certificate was presented to Club President Vernon Bridges during the club's Oct. 26 meeting. The certificate was presented by Monica Yellin, outreach director for Rep. Lesko's office.

Books given to children at MiKiid Trunk or Treat

Bret and Michelle McKeand represented Peoria North Rotary Club at MiKid's first Trunk or Treat event on Saturday, Oct. 29. The event was sponsored by the Valley of the Sun Rotary Passport Club and featured a number of organizations providing candy those children served by MiKid. Instead of candy, Peoria North allowed each child to select a book of their choice. MiKid is a Valley non-profit organization focused on serving the mental health needs of children.

Glendale Rotarian donates 25 mirrors to The Prom Closet!

The Peoria North Rotary Club sends out a special thank-you to Jackie Rose for her recent donation of 25 brand-new, full-length mirrors to be used at our club’s upcoming Prom Closet! Jackie is a member of The Rotary Club of Glendale and recently joined the committee overseeing The Prom Closet. Jackie and her father, Jack (also a member of the Glendale club), recently delivered the mirrors to The Prom Closet’s new home at the Glendale System of Care Campus.

Club visits new System of Care Campus

Members of the Peoria North Rotary Club got a first-hand look at the new System of Care Campus in Glendale on Oct. 19, when the club held its weekly meeting at the campus.

The new campus, home to the club's Prom Closet, offers an array of family services to low-income families in the Northwest Valley. Health and mental wellness, food supplies, literacy and education programs and more are part of the System of Care Campus.

The campus is providing storage space for The Prom Closet. The club will hold its annual Prom Closet next spring at the campus, located at 7677 W. Bethany Home Road in Glendale. During the meeting, Club President Vern Bridges donated over two dozen brand new books to Dennis Parcells, the campus administrator. The books will be used in the campus literacy center.

District Governor speaks to Peoria North Rotary Club

District Governor Larry Horton made his official visit to Peoria North Rotary Club on September 21. Larry was welcomed by a large crowd, anxious to hear an inspiring message.

The theme for Rotary this year is "Imagine Rotary," and Larry encouraged Rotarians to "imagine" the good they can do in the world and in their communities. He shared the inspiring story of a man in India who personally carved a road through a mountain to make it easier for those in his village to reach medical care.

Larry encouraged our Rotarians to "carve" their own road to make small, but substantial positive changes in the world.

In recognition of DG Larry's visit to the club, Peoria North donated $1,000 in Larry's name to The Rotary Vocational Fund of Arizona.

Club welcomes its newest member: Kym Porreca

Peoria Noth Rotary Club installed its newest member at the Sept. 21 meeting, the meeting that also marked the official visit of District Governor Larry Horton.

Kym Porreca was introduced by Membership Chair and Assistant Governor Lou Rotundo, right, while District Governor Larry Horton looks on.

Welcome to the club, Kym!

Lizzie G's Formals donates 200 NEW dresses to The Prom Closet

Lizzie G’s Formals recently donated 200 beautiful, brand new, long dresses- all bagged in plastic and personally delivered by the owners to the club's new Prom Closet facility.

Several members of The Prom Closet Committee were joined by members of the Rotary Club of Sun City to help unload and organize the new donations.

The club's donations are now stored at the System of Care Campus, 7677 W. Bethany Home Road in Glendale. The club will meet Oct. 19 at the facility to tour the new campus and see the new storage facility first-hand.

PNRC plans Fashion Show Fundraiser on Oct. 27

Rotarians help Prom Closet make move to new home!

Over a dozen Rotary volunteers helped Peoria North Rotary Club on July 28 move its massive Prom Closet inventory to a brand new home at the System of Care Campus in Glendale.

Rotarians from Sun City, Downtown Social Club and Glendale joined PNRC members to move the estimated 3,000 prom dresses and men's formal outfits from Landmark Elementary School in downtown Glendale to the new System of Care Campus (formerly Coyote Ridge Elementary School) at 7677 W. Bethany Home Road in Glendale.

The new home will provide expanded space for the Prom Closet, as well as year-round access to store, clean, sort and organize materials. The club will continue to open its doors for its annual spring Prom Closet, but the new facility provides an opportunity for the club to serve residents year-round.

The System of Care Campus will also include a number of other community services aimed at assisting lower-income families and citizens. In addition to The Prom Closet, the campus will house a number of non-profit organizations specializing in vocational training, health care, education and literacy services and much more.

OCJ Kids Founder speaks to Peoria North Rotary Club

Gary Webb, right, president and founder of OCJ Kids in Arizona, was the guest speaker at the July 27 meeting of PNRC. Mr. Webb shared an update on the work of his organization, which focuses on serving the needs of children living in foster care throughout Arizona. President Vernon presents Gary with a book that will be presented to a local school library on behalf of the club. Mr. Webb's name will be inscribed in the book that is donated.

Vernon Bridges is sworn in as PNRC President for 2022-23

Peoria North Rotary Club held its official "Commotion" ceremony On July 20 to swear in our new president and board of directors.

Outgoing President Sharee Sheets was honored and recognized for her year of leadership, followed by incoming President Vernon Bridges being sworn in by Assistant Governor Lou Rotundo.

Sharee thanked the club for its efforts and support throughout the year, and lauded club members for their commitment to service and helping others in the community.

President Vernon introduced the board for this year:

Jason Braunstein, secretary

Tammy Sabinsky, treasurer

Lou Rotundo, membership chair

Steve Matthews, The Rotary Foundation chair

Rebecca Wilks, international chair

Darlene Eger, youth services

Bret McKeand, public image

President Vernon shared his goals for the club. He said he has always held a deep passion for service and helping others less fortunate, and his focus for the club in 2022-23 will be on community service.

Bret meets GLP crew at international convention

Peoria North Rotary Club member and District 5495 Governor (2021-22) attended the most recent Rotary International Convention in Houston, and while there made a point to visit with volunteers at the Guatemala Literacy Project booth in the House of Friendship.

Peoria North has long been a strong support of the Guatemala Literacy Project. Most of the GLP brochures, promotional items and posters on the wall contain photos taken by club member Rebecca Wilks.

Global grant for Guatemala Literacy Project is approved

The Rotary Clubs of Guatemala de la Asunción and Yorba Linda Sunrise are thrilled to announce that the Guatemala Literacy Project (GLP) Global Grant for the 2021-2022 Rotary year has been approved by The Rotary Foundation! Global Grant #2124415 is for a total amount of US $568,327!

Peoria North Rotary Club was one of 134 clubs and 22 districts that contributed to this Global Grant, which will provide the gift of literacy, education, and training to more than 7,200 children and teachers in rural Guatemala, manly during the 2023 Guatemalan school year (January to October).

In addition to Peoria North, two other clubs in District 5495 contributed to the global grant: Phoenix 100 and the Rotary Club of White Mountains.

While this grant will have an enormous impact, there is still have more work to do if we are going to end poverty and illiteracy in Guatemala. Continue supporting Guatemalan students during the 2022-2023 Rotary year by joining Global Grant #2238721, hosted by the Rotary Clubs of Valle de Guatemala (D-4250) and Rice Lake, WI (D-5960)!

PNRC Welcomes Newest Member: Margaret Fried

Peoria North Rotary Club recently inducted its newest member, Margaret Fried. Assistant Governor Lou Rotundo, right, conducted the induction ceremony. At left is Darlene Eger, Margaret's sponsor, and Club President Vernon Bridges. Welcome Margaret!

Peoria North earns D5495 End Polio Champions Award!

The Rotary Club of Peoria North received the District 5495 End Polio Now Champions Award for 2021-22 at the 2022 district conference.

The district conference was held May 13-14 at the Prescott Resort & Conference Center in Prescott, Arizona.

The award recognizes the club with the highest per capita in contributions over the past year to Rotary's End Polio Now campaign.

The award was presented to the club by Past District Governor Jim Erickson, chair of the district's End Polio Now Committee, and Nicolle Karantinos, president of the Rotary Club of Mesa. The Rotary Club of Mesa was the recipient in 2020-21.

Accepting the award on behalf of the club were District Governor Bret McKeand, Ken Parsons, Assistant Governors Gary Connelly and Lou Rotundo.

PNRC servers over 500 students during 2022 Prom Closet!

Peoria North Rotary Club held its first Prom Closet in over two years, and ended up serving nearly 500 students in just two days during April.

The club held its first event on April 2 and a second giveaway on April 16. Both events were held at Landmark Elementary School in downtown Glendale.

Dozens of volunteers from not only Peoria North, but Rotary Clubs throughout the Valley, assisted in serving students. Once again, Donnis Deever served as the club's chair for the event.

Students from over 60 different high schools throughout Arizona visited The Prom Closet over the two-day event.

The club has been hosting the event for over 10 years, not counting the past two years when no event was held. The Prom Closet provides free formal attire to any boy or girl to attend their high school prom. There are no financial requirements and students are not required to bring back items.

All items are donated by the community. A large supply of men's formal wear was made possible by donations from Mr. Formal.

PNRC sets date for 5th annual Wine Classic Fundraiser

Ken Parsons named a 'Hometown Hero'

Ken Parsons, a member of the Rotary Club of Peoria North, was named a "Hometown Hero" during a special community celebration held Feb. 24 at the Rio Vista Recreation Center in Peoria.

Ken was one of 12 "Hometown Heroes" honored during the event, which was sponsored by the local newspaper, the Peoria Independent. He was presented with the "Community Cheerleader" award.

The awards recognize "individuals for their local achievements and distinguished contributions to the community of Peoria."

Ken and his wife, Fran, until recently were owners of Westside Signarama. The two retired in December and have since sold the business.

During their years operating the business, both Ken and Fran were known for their strong support of community activities, events and organizations. In addition to supporting Rotary, Ken has served on the boards of the Peoria Chamber of Commerce and Peoria Diamond Club. He is a past president of The Rotary Club of Peoria North and a past District 5495 Assistant Governor.

Rebecca and Bret take part in "Ride to End Polio"

Peoria North Rotary Club members Rebecca Wilks and Bret McKeand took part in the El Tour de Tucson Bike Ride on Nov. 20, participating in the 28-mile "Ride to End Polio."

Rebecca and Bret were joined by Bret's wife, Michelle, to help raise funds for Rotary's efforts to eradicate polio.

The annual Ride to End Polio has been part of the Tucson bike ride for several years. Started by District 5500, the Ride to End Polio attracts Rotarians from throughout the nation and has generated millions of dollars to benefit Rotary's Polio Plus campaign.

Rebecca finished the 28 miles in roughly 2.5 hours, while Bret and Michelle finished in a little over three hours. There were approximately 900 riders participating in the 28-mile ride.

Wreaths Across America

The Peoria North Rotary Club is proud to announce our Wreaths Across America sponsorship page is up and running.

REMEMBER the Fallen. . .

HONOR those who Serve. . .

TEACH our children the value of Freedom.

To learn more about Wreath Across America click on our clubs link: www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/AZ0172P

How do I sponsor a wreath?

Order online through this direct link to your WAA page: www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/AZ0172P

Click the red button that says ‘Sponsor Wreaths’.
Select the # of wreaths to sponsor AND the location you want them delivered to.
Add other options (Grave Specific Request, etc), as desired.
Click ‘Review My Sponsorships’ to complete the checkout process with a credit/debit card, Google Pay, or Paypal. Be sure to verify that your group ID and location ID are listed next to the items in your shopping cart PRIOR to submitting your order.

Peoria North Serves at Valley View Food Bank

On Saturday, November 13th members of the Peoria North, Sun City and Valley of the Sun Passport Clubs did a joint Club Project at The Valley View Food Bank in Sun City. We were joined by 2 church groups. Hundreds of Thanksgiving Boxes were made for people in need for the Thanksgiving Holiday. The project was set up by The Peoria North Club member and AG Lou Rotundo.

Peoria North Hard at Work

The Prom Closet and Peoria North members are gearing up for Spring 2022. Members Donnis Deever, Elizabeth Kennedy, Sharon Jarnagin, and Darlene Eger have been hard at work tagging dresses, sorting inventory, and getting items ready for the Prom season!

Honoring George Wheeler

We are proud to share that member PDG George Wheeler was honored this year at the Rio Vista Park Veteran's Memorial event.

Peoria North Installs Peace Pole at Community Garden


	On Saturday, November 6th Peoria North Members headed back to the Heart For The City Glendale Community Garden to install a Rotary Peace Pole. Peoria North first volunteered at the garden in April 2021 during the Arizona Rotary Week of Service: weeding, composting, and building garden structures.

PNRC prepares to deliver dictionaries!

Members of Peoria North Rotary Club met recently to prepare dictionaries to be delivered this year to all third-grade students in the Peoria Unified School District.

Club members were joined by members of the Rotary Club of Peoria for a "stickering party" held at Westside Signarama. Club members placed a special sticker with Rotary's Four Way Test on the inside flap of each dictionary.

Members of both clubs will begin delivering the dictionaries to all the elementary schools in the PUSD.

PNRC welcomes newest member

PNRC installs new board for 2021-22

Prom Closet find new ways to serve!

AZ Governor proclaims "Rotary Week of Service"

Rotary Week of Service!

Rotarians invited to help with back-to-school project

Rotary Responds to COVID-19

Thank you from Kachina students!

Club hopeful for Prom Closet return in 2021

Special Opportunity - Wreaths Across America

Sponsor a wreath to ensure all our deserving vets have a wreath on their headstone this holiday season.

How to sponsor wreaths through the Peoria North Rotary Club:

Option 1: Order online through the clubs direct link

www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/AZ0172P

>Click Sponsor Wreaths

>Select the # of wreaths to sponsor AND the location you want them to go to.

>Add other options (grave specifics, etc) as desired.

Complete checkout process with credit/debit card or Paypal.

(Be sure to verify that our group ID and location ID are indicated on your order prior to submitting.)

Option 2: Mail checks direct to WAA

>Include one sponsorship form with each check and one tally sheet per batch of checks in an envelope. (Be sure to include your Group ID and Location ID on each sponsorship form)

https://wreathsblob.blob.core.windows.net/.../wreath...

https://wreathsblob.blob.core.windows.net/.../sponsorship...

Mail to:

Wreaths Across America

PO Box 249

Columbia Falls, ME 04623

All funds are due in the office by November 30th for the national wreath laying ceremony on December 19th, 2020.

RI PolioPlus Director to address club Oct. 28

Club donates water to Valley View Food Bank

PNRC earns Silver ShelterBox HERO Award

Club purchases laptops for Peoria students

Sparking Creativity During COVID-19

PNRC notches District Rotary Direct Award

PNRC donates supplies to Navajo Nation

PNRC lends a hand to help during COVID crisis

Rotary Clubs step up to help during COVID-19 pandemic

Online Meetings

Update on The Prom Closet status

PNRC honors Students of the Month

Club to change meeting location beginning March 18

Dates set for 2020 Prom Closet

Let's Tango! PNRC Wine Classic Feb. 15

PNRC members welcome in 2020!

Kenyan Rotarians thank Ken and Fran Parsons

DG David Simmer visits PNRC!

Students of the Month honored

Welcome Doug Stiegmann, our newest member!

Dwayne Cassill, 1947-2019

Support Rotary with year-end tax savings

Rotarians commemorate World Polio Day

PNRC supports civics project at PUSD

Dictionary distribution begins

Peoria hosts Pursuing Peace Symposium

Peace rocks!

PNRC supports 'Quiet Room' for 911 dispatchers

Welcome Susan Snow … our newest member!

Club joins Rotaract for service project

Club prepares 2019 dictionary distribution

RI President-Elect admires Rebecca photo!

Peoria Police Chief speaks to PNRC

PNRC provides grant to Shelter Box

Club thanks its partners!

Exchange student visits Thailand

PNRC installs its 2019-20 officers

Study: Rotary volunteering valued at $850 million annually

PNRC supports Crutches4Africa project

Club salutes Prom Closet volunteers

PNRC tours American Family Warehouse

Club recognizes student of the month

PNRC welcomes its newest member!

PNRC member takes part in Micro-Lending trip

Prom Closet on pace to serve record number of families!

Newest Rotary club receives PNRC support

New Surprise club recognizes George Wheeler

The 2019 Prom Closet kicks off!

Belinda continues visiting clubs in Switzerland

Belinda visits clubs in Switzerland

RYLA students visit PNRC

Photos from the 2019 PNRC Wine Classic!

Students of the month honored

Paul Harris pins presented

PNRC welcomes newest member!

PNRC members attend RLI

Peoria North supports RYLA!

PNRC to hold third annual Wine Classic

Happy New Year from PNRC!!

AFW pitches in to help Crutches 4 Africa

Rotarians from Kenya visit Arizona

Students of the month honored

West Valley Art Museum features photos by Rebecca!

PNRC hosts first Bowl-A-Rama Fundraiser

Welcome to our newest member!

Capt. Hedgecock returns to PNRC!

Superior Court Clerk speaks to PNRC

Club members attend RI convention in Toronto!

Club installs new officers

Members attend district conference

Club bids farewell to Sara!

Prom Closet volunteers saluted

Club honors students of the month

PNRC plants trees at Mountain Ridge

Club kicks off 2018 Prom Closet community project

Students of the month honored

PNRC members adopt a sports theme Feb. 28

Photos of February 'That's Amore' Wine Classic

PNRC members attend PETS

RYLA students share experiences

Crutches 4 Africa

Busy month for Peoria North!

Club ushers in 2018!

AmazonSmiles. You shop. Amazon gives to PNRC Foundation!

Date set for next club wine social fundraiser

Youth group donates to Prom Closet

Club salutes Students of the Month

Club volunteers at Peoria Boys & Girls Club

Miss Arizona 2017 visits Peoria North

Club celebrates successful wine classic!

Ken Parsons earns 5-time Paul Harris pin

Club hears all about Project C.U.R.E.

Peoria Wine Classic returns October 7

PNRC members attend RI Convention in Atlanta

W. Valley Rotarians join our club social!

Club welcomes inbound exchange student

Paul Harris Fellowship pins awarded

Happy Hour at PNRC!

Club installs officers for 2017-18

Club continues support of Alta Loma Library

District 5490 Sails Off Into the Sunset!

Past R.I. Vice President visits Peoria North

Students of the Month honored

Peace Fellow earns Paul Harris Fellow

Club conducts 2017 prom-dress giveway

Wine-pairing events nets $1,280 for club!

Wine-Pairing Fundraiser a SUCCESS!

PNRC presents 4-way Test banner to Thunderbird Rotary

Club salutes 'students of the month'

Miss Arizona speaks to PNRC

Club celebrates with annual holiday party

Clulb rings in the new year!

Club supports refugee families for the holidays

Club salutes fall Students of the Month

Alta Loma students thank PNRC for book donations

Calendar fundraiser returns for 2016!

Dictionaries ready for distribution!

Club prepares to distribute dictionaries

Rotarians dedicate Peace Pole in Peoria

Club donates books to Peoria schools

Club assists Peoria blood drive

DG Dan Messersmith's official Visit

Back row: George Wheeler, Dave Hammond, Ted Friedman, Adam Carlat, Gary Connelly, John Moore, Ken Parsons, Terry Brown, Dominique Ladomato, Rebecca Wilks

Front Row: Katie Carmack, Donnis Deever, Willi Wheeler, Dan Messersmith, Cheryl Palmer, Janet Gregg, Belinda Moore

Bret McKeand takes over for Gary Connelly

Club honored at district conference

Friends from India visit club

Clubs lends a hand to help Peoria homeless

Club honors Students of the Month

Guatemala Literacy Project honors the Wheelers

PNRC honors Students of the Month

2016 RYLArians Visit PNRC

Visiting Rotarians welcome at our club!

Welcome to our newest members!

Peoria North Rotary Club celebrates 10th Anniversary

Rebecca honored at USA-Mexico Friendship Conference

Students of the Month honored

2016 Calendars are Here!

Play ball!

Club welcomes foreign-exchange student

PUSD superintendent addresses club

Boys & Girls Clubs help local youths

Club members support back-to-school drive

Police Chief joins Peoria North Rotary

Club recognizes Students of the Month

The Peoria North Rotary Club recognized its most recent "Students of the Month" at its Feb. 18 meeting. From left, Nick Gardonia, December Student of the Month, a senior at Mountain Ridge High School; President Maryanne Baker; Tanyon Berry, February Student of the Month, a senior at Mountain Ridge High School. Not pictured is Veronica Larned, January's Student of the Month.

Helping hand for the holidays

Peoria North Rotary once again helped Salvation Army during the holiday season by volunteering to "ring the bell" at Walgreen's in Peoria throughout December. Dave Hammond was among the members who pitched in to help.

Club honors students of the month

Posted on Nov 30, 2014

Peoria North Rotary Club honored several local students at a recent club meeting at Arizona Broadway Theater. Guest speaker for the meeting was Katie Murphy-Hedgecock, who was one of the club's very first "Student of the Month" several years ago when she attended Mountain Ridge High School. Ms. Hedgecock went on to graduate from West Point Military Academy and obtained a Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship to attend graduate school at Oxford. From left, Vincent Stover, the club's November Student of the Mont

h; Club President MaryAnne Baker; Katie Murphy-Hedgecock; Emily Vechiola, the club's October Student of the Month. The students attend Mountain Ridge High School.

Club members enjoy Verde Canyon Railroad trip

Several clubs members traveled to Clarkdale Oct. 26 to enjoy a tour on the Verde Canyon Railroad. Club members in attendance (with their spouse or guests) were President MaryAnne Baker, Ken Parsons, Bret McKeand, Terry Brown, Dave Hammond, Gary Connolly, Janet Gregg and Katie Carmack. The train trip was planned and arranged by Terry. More photos are available in the Club Photo Album.

Club toasts marriage of first "Student of the Month"

Posted by Bret McKeand on Sep 28, 2014

Peoria North Rotary toasted the marriage of Katie Murphy and Nathan Hedgecock during the club's Sept. 17 meeting. Katie was the club's first "Student of the Month" and later an Ambassador Scholar to Oxford on a Rotary scholarship. Katie was married over the summer at West Point Military Academy. Members George and Willi attended the wedding and brought back several bottles of champagne served to those who attended the ceremony -- so that our club could ceremoniously toast Katie and Nathan.

Club thanks Basha's for book bin support

Posted by Bret McKeand on Sep 10, 2014

Peoria North Rotary Club members recently thanked the managers of three local Basha's Grocery Stores for their continued support of our book bins. The bins -- located at one Basha's store in Sun City West and two in Peoria -- have generated over $10,400 for the club since first introduced nearly 10 years ago. Funds raised through the bins help the club fund literacy projects and its annual dictionary project. Nicole Martinez, the assistant manager of the 99th and Beardsley Basha's, attended the club's Sept. 10 meeting. Not at the meeting, but also recognized, were Steve Stover, the manager of the 99th and Beardsley store; Alex Lopez, manager of the Sun City West store; and Kim Pirtle, manager of the 75th and Thunderbird store. From left, Willi Wheeler, book bin coordinator for the club; Nicole Martinez; and Janet Gregg.

Club welcomes inbound exchange student

Posted by Bret McKeand on Aug 17, 2014

The Peoria North Rotary Club welcomed inbound exchange student Ya-Han "Sandy" Cao to Arizona during June and July. Several members of the club hosted Sandy during her six-week visit to the Valley of the Sun. Sandy's activities included celebrating Independence Day, viewing the Arizona Diamondbacks, visiting the Heard Museum and traveling to Southern California.

Cell Phones for Soldiers

Posted by Tamera Sabinsky on Jul 15, 2014

Chuck Strange visited the club in June to promote a nationwide project that collects cell phones for those serving in the military. Chuck shared with the club the purpose of the nonprofit campaign and its desire to collect cell phones and ship them to those serving abroad in time for the Fourth of July holiday. Chuck is a long-time community volunteer and serves on the Peoria Chamber of Commerce and Peoria Diamond Club Boards of Directors.

It is that time of year again... SPRING TRAINING

Posted by Tamera Sabinsky on Jan 28, 2014

BATTER-UP Get ready sports fans. It's about time for our Rotary Club's annual outing to the Peoria Ballpark for a Spring Training BB game. The game will be at 1 pm on Saturday, March 22, so save the date. We've got 18 great seats - the best in the house, and they're all together in a group to make for easy schmoozing. Tickets will be $20, which is actually a real bargain for seats this good, but they'll be on a first come first served basis. Ticket sales will open about a month ahead of time. We'll let you know the exact date ahead of time. Questions? Contact Winston.

PNRC Presents Grant to The Arizona Broadway Theater

Posted by Tamera Sabinsky on Jul 30, 2013

District Governor Visits PNRC

Posted by Tamera Sabinsky on Jul 30, 2013

PNRC Member Rebecca Wilks receives Trustee of the Rotary Foundation Citation

Posted by Tamera Sabinsky on Jul 30, 2013

Cactus High School Pantry Back To School Donations

Posted by Tamera Sabinsky on Jul 01, 2013

One of the ongoing projects PNRC has been committed to has been assisting with the Cactus High School Pantry; a program that was initially started with the assistance of a District Simplified Grant in 2011. This is a place where students and/ or student's families can go in times of need to obtain school supplies; personal hygiene supplies etc. While the Pantry has become relatively self sufficient, there are times where they can benefit with some assistance. Therefore we are collecting school supplies thru the end of July; supplies may be placed in the collection box at BMO Harris Bank (91st Ave and Union Hills); or you can bring any donations you may want to make into a club meeting. Items in need are any standard school supply: paper, pens, notebooks, BACKPACKS, etc. Additionally, the Pantry is suggesting basic personal hygiene products such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, etc.

New Rotary Year 2013-14 Begins

Posted by Tamera Sabinsky on Jul 01, 2013

PNRC Commotion Night was held Wednesday, June 26th in our traditional 'passing of the torch' ceremony. With laughter and fellowship, the new 2013-14 PNRC Board of Directors has been installed. Your Board Members and Committee Chairs for the next year will be:

President: Katie Carmack

Treasurer: Deb Utz

Secretary: Ken Parsons

President Elect: Mary Anne Baker

Foundation: Rebecca Wilks

New Generations: Tamera Sabinsky

Ad Hoc Board Member: John Fairchild

Committee Chairs:

Club Administrator: Rebecca Wilks/Maria Mathews

Sgt At Arms: Dave Hammond

Fundraising: Mary Anne Baker

Web/Newsletter: Tamera Sabinsky

Additionally, this year, the PNRC Board has elected to explore a new venue for Membership with a Mentoring Program, with Gary Connely, Steve Mathews, and Janet Gregg all volunteering to step into the role of New Member Mentors.

Let's all wish President Katie Carmack best wishes as she moves PNRC forward into the new Rotary year..... just look for her yellow 'Chariot'.

Peoria North Rotary, LIteracy, and Dictionaries

Posted by Tamera Sabinsky on May 26, 2013

One of PNRC's ongoing commitments is that of fostering literacy both locally and internationally. Early each spring, PNRC partners with the Peoria Rotary Club to assist in the distribution of dictionaries to every 3rd grader in the Peoria Unified School District. Club member Ken Parsons is seen here with an excited group of students who have just received their personal dictionaries.... smiles abound.

Nogales, Mexico Microcredit Project

Posted by Tamera Sabinsky on May 25, 2013

Last Friday, Rebecca and MaryAnne met five people whose lives have been transformed by Microcredit in Nogales Mexico. They had a cultural exchange and lots of fresh-baked Mexican dulces. More details are on Rebecca's photo Blog. — with MaryAnne Baker, Rob Baker, Rebecca Wilks and Marco Cecala.

Mountain Ridge HS Spring Rotary Students of the Month

Posted by Tamera Sabinsky on May 25, 2013

Club President, Katie Carmack, celebrates with the Mountain Ridge HS Spring Rotary Students of the Month.

Club Visioning

Posted by Rebecca Wilks on Apr 12, 2013

On April 13, Peoria North Rotary participated in a "Visioning" seminar, brainstorming our priorities for the future. Photos are here.

Greensleeves Orphanage Grant Funded

Posted by Rebecca Wilks on Apr 07, 2013

Four representatives of Peoria North Rotary Club toured projects with members of the East London, South Africa Sunrise Club a little over a year ago. We started talking with then then about projects we might work on together, and those conversations have now come full-circle.

Guatemala Literacy Project

Posted by Rebecca Wilks on Mar 09, 2013

Marco and I are just back from Guatemala, visiting schools served by the Guatemala Literacy Project and visiting with Florentina, the student Marco and I are sponsoring. Florentina is the youngest of 5, being raised by a single parent (Dad)l. She is 17 and in High School ("Diversificado") studying accounting. It has been delightful seeing her grow into a poised young woman! The GLP is a model of positive, sustainable literacy work. Learn more at www.coeduc.org

Photographs from the February 2013 trip are here.

Peoria North Rotary Club

Posted by Rebecca Wilks on Nov 27, 2012

Among the newest of Arizona's nearly 140 Rotary Clubs, Peoria North Rotary Club is a member of Rotary International, an organization of business and professional leaders who strive to provide strong humanitarian services, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and build goodwill and peace throughout their community and the world. Peoria North Rotary Club received its charter from Rotary International on December 2, 2005.

Congrats Kathryn

Posted by George Wheeler on Jul 31, 2012

Congratulations to Lieutenant Kathryn Murphy, our Ambassadorial Scholar, upon completion of her Master's Degree program in Russian language and Eurasia Politics from Oxford University, England. We look forward to many great things from Katie as she heads for full time Army life.

All (291) TRVFA (1)