Hey there, I’m Bobbi Jo Brockmann a mom of two energetic boys, juggling their school activities, and happily married to an awesome guy who's working hard to build his own timber framing company. On top of all that, I have a full-time gig as the Vice President for ImmuCell Corporation. We have a dog and ten acres of never-ending projects – grass to mow, down trees to cut into firewood, flowerbeds to weed. And we dabble in making maple syrup. I'm also this year's president of the River Cities Rotary Club. I'm sharing all this because I want more folks to be part of our Rotary Club.
Now, I'm not originally from the Port Byron area. My family and I moved here about six years ago. But let me tell you, we've come across some seriously impressive people who are a perfect fit for Rotary. The folks around here have huge hearts and a "roll up their sleeves and get it done" kind of attitude. It's like they've got the caring gene embedded in their DNA. Rotary is the perfect way for people like that to make an impact. The River Cities Rotary Club is all about taking action and carrying out service projects in Hampton, Rapids City, Port Byron, Cordova, Hillsdale, and Albany. We're also part of a global network through Rotary International, which is among the top 1% of highest-rated not-for-profits. Rotary International does incredible work with minimal administrative costs. Over the past five years, our club has given back to the community by volunteering our time and raising over $50,000 for important causes. Rotary helps you do good locally, globally, and within yourself.
Growing up, my dad was a hardworking farmer in Eastern Iowa, and my mom worked as a police dispatcher. They showed me that balancing work and volunteering is not only doable but also fulfilling. I remember my sisters and I tagging along to their service projects and social events. Those experiences opened so many doors for us as we grew older. The point I'm trying to make is that we're all busy, but carving out time to serve your community brings perspective, purpose, and amazing opportunities. It feels fantastic to give back and contribute your time and talents to something more meaningful than just a paycheck.
Now let me give you a more detailed view of what River Cities Rotary is all about. We meet twice a month at the River Valley Library for a program-based meeting. It begins at 7:15 am, so it's a bright and early start, but it only lasts for an hour. We also organize at least one Service Project and one Social Event each month. Whether you're a member or not, we welcome you to join us for these Service Projects and Socials. It's a fantastic way to get involved and connect with like-minded individuals. To become an official member recognized by Rotary International, we ask for quarterly dues of $47. If you're curious, you can always sit in on a meeting to see what it's all about before making a Rotary International commitment. Trust me, the meeting programs are insightful and a great way to stay updated on what's happening in our community and the available services. You can find our schedule of events at www.RiverCitiesRotary6420.com. While you're there, subscribe to receive email and text reminders about upcoming local Rotary events.
We've got a fantastic group of dynamic and fun-loving members. Some of them are local legends full of interesting historical knowledge and all have mind-blowing big ideas for our community’s future. Our programs feature not only local business owners but also representatives from various non-profit organizations. Our service projects run the gamut. We host blood drives, read to school classes, celebrate our service men and women, organize one of the area's biggest youth fishing derbies, prepare meals for Cordova Cares and Kids Against Hunger, and embark on community beautification projects, just to name a few. If you're attending Tug Fest, you absolutely cannot miss our food stand. We serve up the best ribeye and pork chop sandwiches around! We also add some extra excitement to Tuesday nights at Ram's River House with our Queen of Hearts raffle. All the proceeds from fundraisers are reinvested right back into our community.
When I was asked to be the Rotary president, my mind flooded with "buts." I thought, "But I'm busy, but I'm tired, but I'm not sure if I'll be any good at this." But you know what? I decided to kick those "buts" to the curb and give it a shot. So here's my challenge to you: let's make a difference together! Join me and the River Cities Rotary Club for at least one event this year. Let us prove to you that Rotary is an incredible way to get involved, connect with others, and truly make an impact. Are you up for it? Let's do this!
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