
Lola McClane's youngest granddaughter graduated from high school and her oldest granddaughter graduated from the University of Arizona.

Bob Jensen submitted a picture of the Guaymas school principal and teachers who worked so hard to make our last (hearing) mission possible. They have let us come into the school for 32 years and take over and put in ten to twelve hour days so that we can concentrate on seeing our patients. They are fully committed to the mission.

Chad Reid during his first stand-up comedy routine at the Tempe Improv a few months ago.

Erwin Reimann - In December, Joan’s oncologist said there is no sign of the breast cancer that was diagnosed and treated conservatively 5 years ago. When we went out to celebrate Joan’s good news, the restaurant surprised us with a wonderful chocolate cake and a beautifully decorated plate.

Erwin and Joan Reimann - In August, we spent 6 days touring New York City with our son and his wife who are living in Manhattan this year.

Lu General shared, "One day on the Oregon coast, Wayne and I came upon this woman creating something unique in the sand. The beauty of watching while leaning in close to someone you love, created one of those lovely moments that will linger for years."

Polly Cady celebrated the many wonderful times she and Allan enjoyed with our 2023-24 Rotary Youth Exchange student from Sweden, Olivia Lundqvist. Polly said is was a special year, and wished she could have adopted Olivia.

John Benedict: I celebrated my 80th birthday in 2024. To commemorate the occasion, my daughters reached out to friends and family to collect some of their memories with me. Many responded, including my Rotary friends, with stories and photos. The girls put it all together in a beautiful Shutterfly album that I’m enjoying.

Melodie Jackson wrote: "Pam and I had a fabulous time on our 10 day Caribbean cruise. We saw beautiful islands, met really fun people, ate great food and drank nice wines. Cheers to 2025!

Shelly Romine shared: "This is my family. I do not recall seeing this photo before, but my Aunt shared it at my Dad's memorial late this summer. Below me (I am the baby in my Daddy's arms) is my sister Tammy who we also lost this year. By my Dad is my beautiful Mom who looks too young to have 3 children. Below her is my sister Liz. I wish the picture was in better condition. The last year actually was filled with wonderful memories with family and friends interspersed with moments of deep sadness. I am very thankful for all I have and the experiences in life that shape us into who we are. Wishing everyone a blessed New Year.

Erica Williams sent these family images saying "In a year filled with health challenges on many levels, we are thankful for time spent as a family, seeing our girls blossom as performers, and the many blessings in our lives. Happy new year!"

Jeanie Morgan - I enjoyed the casual atmosphere of the evening meeting held at Long Bow Golf Club. I especially enjoyed the pleasant temperatures and the opportunity to see the full moon rising creating a beautiful, memorable image to help her remember a pleasant evening with her Rotary friends who are like family.

Ron Thompson submitted: "I retired this year. Toni became president of Strayer University."

Andy Bradford said, "This past year was full of great memories. Traveling as far north as Ketchikan, Alaska and as far south as the Yucatan Peninsula. However there are few things this year that I am as increasingly excited about as joining Rotary Mesa West! Thank you all for your warm welcome!

Colleen Coons shared an update from Yuleidi Contreras - last year's McKinney Vento graduate who is finishing up her training to be an llB (infantry). Check out these images from her training.

Gaby Duran says a highlight of her year was being able to attend AZWIN Conference and grow her network.