The Rotary Club of El Cajon Sunset held its first meeting of the 2020-2021 year at La Mesita Park in La Mesa CA, with all the State and local health directives observed.  It was a joyful break from the current Zoom meeting format and it was a great way to socialize in open air all the while practicing distancing.
 
Past Assistant District Governor,  Alison Cummings (RC El Cajon Noon) a long-time friend of El Cajon Sunset pinned Dominic Gunder as President and then inducted two of the newest Rotarians in the world, Mary Jo Hart (RN) and Rodney Williams (Retired Military and Synagogue Volunteer). PADG Alison shared the Rotary experience and asked each new member to share their experiences.  Alison stated how she has been blessed by Rotary experiences and always admires how El Cajon Sunset does many service projects with limited manpower.

Past District Peace Chair, Clara Harris (RC La Mesa Sunrise), a long-time friend and mentor of El Cajon Sunset pinned Charlene Norwood (RN) as the Club’s newest Paul Harris Fellow.  Clara Harris congratulated the club for its great local and International service projects especially in water and sanitation led by Rotarian Richard Makau, Club Foundation Chair.  Clara Harris also pinned Richard as a multiple Paul Harris Fellow.   Clara Harris encouraged each member to support The Rotary Foundation and to continue to serve our communities with dedication.

President Dominic Gunder shared his vision for the club and encouraged members to visit other clubs, support RI and District events and sacrifice to maintain the Club Motto “the mighty small club that can”. RC El Cajon Sunset will distribute 200 free facial masks to low income families in Mid-city the 3rd weekend of July.  

Dominic stated, “Amid the coronavirus crisis, economic uncertainty and social protesting, performing the work of Rotary is indeed challenging this year. These challenge also present opportunities for us to work even closer together”.   All member enjoyed a boxed lunch and seeing each other.  We look forward to eventually returning to in-person meetings and a great year of “service above self.”